‘AI Will Make Big Difference': Ashwini Vaishnaw Reacts to Baramati Farmer's Video Shared by Satya Nadella

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recently shared the incredible impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on Indian agriculture. In a post on X, Nadella highlighted the struggles faced by small-town sugarcane farmers in India, who have long dealt with problems such as debt, pests, droughts, and diseases, leading to crop failures.

However, AI is now helping to change the situation for these farmers. Nadella shared a video showing how AI has helped a small farmer in Battis Shirala, Maharashtra, increase his crop yields, reduce the use of harmful chemicals, and make better use of water. He described the impact of AI in agriculture as "phenomenal."

He explained, “I wanted to highlight an example of a small farmer from the Baramati Co-op. Using powerful technology, a small landowner was able to improve the yield of their land. The results, including a reduction in chemicals, better water usage, and higher yields, were truly remarkable.”

Nadella also pointed out how geospatial data from drones and satellites is being used to help farmers make decisions in their local languages, making the technology more accessible.

Reacting to the video, Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Minister for Railways, said, “AI will make a big difference in the lives of farmers.”

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Agri-Tech Project in Baramati

In 2022, Microsoft launched an agri-tech project in Baramati, Maharashtra, in partnership with the Agricultural Development Trust (ADT). This project uses AI tools to help farmers achieve healthier and more sustainable harvests. The collaboration also involves Microsoft Research, aiming to integrate AI, satellite imaging, and other technologies to bring transformative changes to the agricultural sector in India.

The initiative is proving that technology, like AI, can play an important role in improving farming practices and supporting farmers across the country.