SKUAST-K, Mera Farm House forge path for AI-based agricultural solutions

Srinagar, May 08:In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing agricultural practices, the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) recently hosted a collaborative session with Mera Farm House, Chandigarh. The focus of the interaction was on leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create a farmer-oriented digital platform.
Chaired by Prof. Dil Mohammad Makhdoomi, Director of Extension/Education at SKUAST-K, the session witnessed the participation of eminent scientists from the Directorate of Extension alongside officials from Mera Farm House. Nikhil Garg, the Chief Executive Officer of Mera Farm House, delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the features and capabilities of their android-supported and web-based digital platform designed to benefit the farming community.
Distinguished guests including Prof. A. C. Varshney, former Vice Chancellor of DUVASU, Mathura, U.P., and Arvind Kumar, Chief Strategy Officer of Mera Farm House, graced the occasion. The dialogue unfolded against the backdrop of SKUAST-K’s ongoing projects, particularly under the Himalayan Action Plan for Development (HADP).
The discussions delved into various facets of the digital platform, including automated data collection of crucial farming information such as field geo-coordinates, soil conditions, crop types, and irrigation facilities. Additionally, the participants explored advanced features like blockchain-enabled traceability of farm produce, integration with government schemes, disease diagnostics powered by AI and machine learning, real-time soil mapping, and personalized expert advisories.
A key highlight was the exploration of collaborative opportunities between Mera Farm House and SKUAST-K, with an emphasis on fostering private-public partnerships. The envisioned collaboration aims to harness the strengths of both entities to empower farmers with cutting-edge technological solutions tailored to their needs.