In the heart of India’s agricultural landscape, a technological revolution is brewing, one that promises to reshape the way we approach sustainable farming. At the forefront of this transformation is Krishnaprasath Vellimalaipattinam Thiruvenkatasamy, a researcher from the Department of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science at the Nehru Institute of Engineering and Technology. His recent work, published in the journal ‘Scientific Reports’ (translated as ‘Scientific Reports’), introduces a novel approach to secure data management in agriculture, leveraging the power of the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain technology.
The challenge at hand is significant. As Thiruvenkatasamy explains, “Agriculture-Internet of Things (Agri-IoT) has opened up new avenues for smart farming, but it has also brought forth challenges, particularly in data security and management.” Traditional centralized solutions have proven vulnerable, leaving sensitive agricultural data exposed. Enter blockchain technology (BCT), a decentralized, transparent mechanism that enhances data security and access control.
Thiruvenkatasamy’s research introduces a multi-tiered BCT model tailored for Agri-IoT. This model comprises three levels: Edge, Fog, and Cloud, each employing discrete ‘Data Handlers’ to ensure an efficient data lifecycle. At the core of this model is the Quantum Neural Network + Bayesian Optimization (QNN + BO) algorithm. When combined with methods like Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) and Coyote Optimization Algorithm (COA), this algorithm guarantees secure data flow, processing, and storage.
The results are impressive. Using the ToN_IoT dataset, the QNN + BO model demonstrated significant performance enhancements. It reduced encryption and decryption times by up to 46.7% and 54.6%, respectively, and improved prediction accuracy with a 19.3% Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), outperforming baseline models. Moreover, it consumed up to 33% less memory, making it suitable for resource-constrained agricultural environments.
The commercial implications of this research are vast. In an era where data is king, securing agricultural data is not just about protecting information; it’s about safeguarding the future of farming. As Thiruvenkatasamy notes, “This integrative model proposes a complete solution to unlock Agri-IoT’s potential while addressing its challenges.”
The potential applications extend beyond agriculture. The energy sector, for instance, could benefit from this technology. Smart grids, which rely on real-time data for efficient energy distribution, could leverage this model to secure their data, ensuring reliable and secure energy delivery.
This research is a testament to the power of innovation in addressing real-world challenges. As we stand on the brink of a technological revolution, Thiruvenkatasamy’s work serves as a beacon, guiding us towards a future where technology and sustainability go hand in hand. The journey has just begun, and the possibilities are endless.