Pune: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to bring revolutionary changes in agriculture, particularly in sugarcane farming, said senior leader Sharad Pawar. He emphasized that embracing AI will not only boost crop yields but also optimize production costs and enhance sugar recovery rates.
Speaking at a workshop on AI applications in sugarcane farming, organized by the West Indian Sugar Mills Association (WISMA) and the Agriculture Development Trust in Baramati, Pawar highlighted that this technology could transform the agricultural economy.
The event saw participation from leaders of 65 cooperative and private sugar mills across Maharashtra, along with notable figures such as MP Supriya Sule, WISMA President B.B. Thombre, Sugar Federation President P.R. Patil, and Sakal Media Group Chairman Prataprao Pawar.
AI in Sugarcane Farming: A Game-Changer
Sharad Pawar stated that AI has already demonstrated its potential in Baramati through a model designed to increase sugarcane yield, lower production costs, and improve sugar extraction efficiency. He further emphasized that the technology could be extended to other high-value crops like grapes, pomegranates, and bananas, setting a new direction for agricultural growth.
Government Support & Future Expansion
The success of this initiative has drawn attention from global figures like Satya Nadella and Elon Musk, as well as Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. In response, the Maharashtra government has allocated ₹500 crore for further AI-driven agricultural research.
Sharad Pawar stated that farmers should earn a minimum profit of ₹1 lakh per acre using AI-based advancements. If sugar mills collaborate, this project could be scaled up across the country.
Industry Leaders Advocate for AI Adoption
B.B. Thombre, in his address, stated that AI could provide much-needed relief to sugarcane farmers, given the current challenges faced by the sugar industry. He announced that WISMA would contribute ₹11 lakh to support AI development.
MP Supriya Sule suggested submitting a detailed proposal to the central government to secure additional funding.
Additionally, Rajendra Pawar emphasized the need to expand drip irrigation and develop better sugarcane varieties for sustained agricultural growth.
A technical presentation on AI applications in farming was delivered by CEO Nilesh Nalawade.
Tackling Farmer Distress Through Technology
In his concluding remarks, Sharad Pawar addressed the rising number of farmer suicides in Maharashtra. He called for joint efforts from the central and state governments, along with private institutions, to mitigate farmer distress through technological interventions.