Maharashtra has taken a bold step towards modernising its agriculture sector with the approval of the MahaAgri-AI Policy 2025-2029. This initiative, supported by a budget of Rs 500 crore, aims to integrate advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), drones, and robotics into farming. The primary goal is to enhance productivity while reducing costs for farmers. The government is keen to lead the way in the digital transformation of agriculture, making it essential for farmers to embrace these emerging technologies.
The policy focuses on the ‘farmer-centric use’ of technology, which means that it will prioritise the needs and benefits of farmers. With AI, farmers will receive personalised advice in Marathi through chatbots and voice assistants. This will help them access critical information about crop production, pest management, weather forecasts, market prices, and government schemes.
One of the exciting aspects of this policy is the introduction of simulation tools. These tools will connect farmers to national platforms like Agristack and Bhashini, ensuring they have the best resources at their fingertips. Furthermore, field extension workers will receive training to effectively utilise AI, ensuring that the benefits reach every corner of the farming community.
A significant feature of the MahaAgri-AI Policy is the establishment of a state-wide traceability and quality certification platform. This platform will use AI, blockchain technology, and QR codes to ensure food security and transparency in the supply chain. It will track the journey of agricultural products from the farm to the consumer, providing a digital record of inputs like fertilisers and pesticides, as well as farming practices and quality certifications.
Additionally, the government plans to create an Agro Data Exchange (A-DeX). This will connect various data sets, including both government and private information, allowing for better decision-making and resource allocation in agriculture. The A-DeX will link data related to climate, supply chains, market intelligence, and more, creating a comprehensive database for farmers and stakeholders.
To encourage innovation, the state plans to host competitions such as Hackathons. These events will invite new ideas and projects that address current challenges in the agriculture sector. The policy also establishes committees that will evaluate projects for their feasibility and potential impact, ensuring that only the most promising initiatives receive support.
The implementation of the MahaAgri-AI Policy will be overseen by a three-tier administrative structure, which includes a State-Level Steering Committee and a State-Level Technical Committee. This structure will ensure that the policy is executed effectively and adaptively, keeping pace with the rapidly changing AI landscape.
In conclusion, the MahaAgri-AI Policy is set to revolutionise agriculture in Maharashtra. By embracing technology, the state aims to provide farmers with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive market. This initiative not only promises to increase productivity but also aims to create a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that supports farmers and promotes innovation. As Maharashtra leads the way in digital agriculture, it sets a precedent for other states to follow, paving the path for a tech-driven agricultural future.