Pune: A delegation from Microsoft is set to visit Baramati on December 18 and 19 to evaluate the groundbreaking “Farm of the Future” project, which integrates artificial intelligence (AI) into sugarcane farming.
The project, initiated by the Agricultural Development Trust in collaboration with Microsoft and Oxford University, has been operational for the past two and a half years and demonstrates the transformative potential of AI in agriculture.
The project, which involves 1,000 farmers across Maharashtra, aims to achieve a 40% increase in sugarcane production and a 20% reduction in costs. Early findings indicate significant progress toward these goals.
The collaboration began after discussions between Pratap Pawar, Chairman of Sakal and Trustee of the Agricultural Development Trust, and Dr. Ajit Javkar, a global expert from Oxford University. Their efforts led to a partnership with Microsoft and Oxford, resulting in the project’s implementation.
The visiting delegation includes representatives from Microsoft and associated companies, such as Sapna Nohira, Barbara Terzief, Rajat Agarwal, Nikhil Manekar, Prashant Mishra, John Ryder, Me Yi Chen, Pallavi Walia, Yashodhara Roy, and Avanti Shriname.
Cutting-Edge AI and Satellite Technology in Use
The project leverages advanced AI and satellite-based technologies for plot mapping, automated weather monitoring, IoT sensor systems, fertilizer and water management, soil fertility analysis, and pest and disease control. These innovations aim to enhance production while reducing costs and mitigating climate impacts on sugarcane farming.
Recognition and Global Impact
The project has attracted global attention, with visits from prominent figures like Dr. Randall Carolissen from Johannesburg Business School, Microsoft Managing Director Dr. Ranveer Chandra, and Bill Gates Foundation CTO Stuart Collis. Nilesh Nalawade, CEO of the Trust, has also been recognized globally, inspiring over 100 countries with his expertise at Oxford.
Economic Benefits
The AI-based farming initiative has the potential to boost Maharashtra’s sugarcane revenue by ₹15,000 crore. If implemented nationwide, the economic impact could reach several thousand crores, establishing this project as a model for the future of agriculture in India.
