Bhubaneswar, 21 February (H.S.): The Odisha government has intensified its push towards technology-driven agriculture, with Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singhdeo on Saturday highlighting the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in improving farm productivity and profitability.

Speaking at a review meeting held at Lok Seva Bhavan, Singhdeo said AI-based systems will provide advance crop intelligence to farmers, enabling them to make timely decisions on sowing, irrigation, pest control and harvesting. The initiative aims to minimise losses and maximise farm income.

The meeting, attended by Agriculture Commissioner-cum-Secretary Sachin Ramachandra Jadhav and Director of Agriculture Shubham Saxena, followed the presentation of the state budget that allocated 12.3 per cent higher funds to agriculture and allied sectors. Singhdeo expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for the enhanced allocation, describing it as a strong step toward strengthening farmers’ livelihoods.

During the session, officials reviewed several technology-driven solutions, including a smartphone-based application developed by Krishivaas. The platform enables real-time crop monitoring, disease prediction and temperature-based advisory services for farmers.

In addition, the state has initiated digital crop surveys using satellite imagery to improve accuracy in crop assessment and planning. Officials said these measures demonstrate Odisha’s proactive approach in integrating modern technology with traditional farming practices to achieve sustainable agricultural growth.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda