Agri-Tech: The underdog of Modern Technology
- Rushi Joshi
- Mar 12
- 4 min read
Credits- Jeevak Bhalerao, Edited by - Rushi Joshi
In a world obsessed with artificial intelligence and fintech, a quiet revolution is reshaping an industry that sustains us all - agriculture. Agri-tech, the fusion of technology and farming, holds the key to solving global food shortages, combating climate change, and increasing agricultural efficiency. Yet, despite its massive impact, it remains one of the most overlooked sectors in modern innovation. Unlike AI-powered chatbots or digital banking, Agri-Tech innovations work behind the scenes—in fields, greenhouses, and supply chains—making them less visible to the public. Investors also hesitate due to challenges like slow adoption, scalability issues, and infrastructure demands. However, India’s agri-tech industry is rapidly growing and is expected to reach $6.15 billion by 2033 with a 10.93% CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate). In 2024, the market stood at $878.1 million, driven by government initiatives like Digital India and Startup India, rising smartphone penetration, and advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and drones. Startups such as Ninjacart and Cropin are transforming supply chains and precision farming, fueling growth.
Why Agri-Tech is the Future We’re Ignoring?
Over the past years, agriculture has evolved dramatically. Innovators like Ritesh Agarwal (Farmkart) and Krishify are revolutionizing Indian agriculture. Farmkart provides an AI-powered platform that simplifies access to agricultural products, advisory services, and financial tools, helping farmers make data-driven decisions. Krishify is a social network, connecting farmers with experts, peers, and agribusinesses to share knowledge and trade products efficiently. Meanwhile, government policies like the PM-PRANAM Yojana promote sustainable farming by reducing chemical fertilizer reliance and encouraging organic alternatives. Programs like the Digital Agriculture Mission and the Agriculture Accelerator Fund support startups and farmers. Digital infrastructure such as India Stack enables seamless identity verification, payments, and documentation, while Agristack creates a unified farmer database for better access to credit and subsidies.
Innovations That Are Reshaping Our World
India is at the forefront of Agri-Tech innovation, integrating AI, drones, gene editing, and robotics to enhance productivity, sustainability, and farmer profitability.
AI-Powered Agriculture:
AI-driven solutions are revolutionizing Indian farming. The AI4AI Initiative, particularly the Saagu Baagu project in Telangana, has boosted chili yields by 21%, reduced pesticide uses by 9%, and cut fertilizer use by 5%, effectively doubling farmer incomes. Expansion plans aim to impact 500,000 farmers across multiple crops. AI also enables precision farming, providing automated recommendations for irrigation, fertilization, and pest control, leading to better resource management.
CRISPR Innovations in India:
CRISPR is a special tool that scientists use to edit genes, like cutting and pasting DNA. It helps fix genetic problems, make crops stronger, and even treat diseases, unlocking new possibilities for Indian agriculture. Scientists at Delhi University have developed CRISPR-edited mustard with reduced glucosinolate, making it more suitable for animal feed and reducing pesticide dependency. The Indian Agricultural Research Institute has engineered drought- and salt-tolerant rice, expected to be commercially available by 2026, ensuring stable yields in harsh climates.
Additionally, biofortified bananas enriched with vitamin A could help combat malnutrition in developing regions.
Drone & Robotic Advancements:
Drones with high-quality cameras spray pesticides only where needed, reducing waste and pollution. At the same time, robotic harvesters help pick crops faster, solving labor shortages and preventing damage to the produce. With these advancements, India is solidifying its position as a global leader in Agri-Tech, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.
(1) https://india.mongabay.com/2024/04/farming-with-ai-and-drones-to-increase-yields-manageresources-and-reduce-pests/ Nagaraja, G. (2024). Title of the article. International Journal of Research in Agronomy, SP-7(9), 1001-1009. (2) https://www.agronomyjournals.com/article/view/1650/S-7-9-132
Agri-Tech’s Gold Rush: The Next Big Investment Frontier
The rise in Agri-Tech investment is evident globally and in India, driven by rapid technological advancements, increasing market demand, and strong government support. In India, agri-foodtech startups secured $2.4 billion in funding in 2022, despite an overall decline in investment across sectors. Additionally, private equity investments in Agri-Tech surged by 50% between 2017 and 2020. The number of Agri-Tech startups in India has also experienced exponential growth, rising from approximately 50 to over 6,200 in the past decade, highlighting the sector's expanding influence and potential.
(1) https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/5954523/agritech-global-market-report Omnivore. (2023). India Agrifoodtech Investment Report 2023.
(2) https://www.omnivore.vc/wpcontent/uploads/2023/05/india-2023-agrifood-investment-report.pdf Mongabay India. (2024, February). Government support and investor interest in Agritech could boost India’s farming sector.
What’s Blocking Agri-Tech’s Rise?
Agri-tech is often hailed as the future of farming in India, promising higher yields, lower costs, and sustainable agriculture. Yet, despite these benefits, its adoption remains slow. A complex web of technological, economic, social, and regulatory hurdles continues to stall progress.
The Tech Gap: Cutting Edge but Out of Reach
Many farmers lack digital literacy, and unreliable internet and power supply make advanced solutions impractical in rural areas. Additionally, concerns over data security and the need for region-specific adaptations hinder trust and scalability.
The Money Barrier: High Costs, Low Incentives
For small-scale farmers, the cost of hydroponic systems, smart irrigation, and gene-edited crops is prohibitive. With limited access to affordable credit and unclear short-term benefits, many hesitate to invest.
Cultural and Policy Changes
Traditional farming methods dominate, making the shift to high-tech solutions slow. Fear of job losses due to automation adds resistance. On the regulatory side, unclear policies on gene editing, land use, and investment slow down innovation.
While Agri-Tech holds immense promise, its widespread adoption requires strategic solutions - improving infrastructure, enhancing financial support, and streamlining policies. Bridging these gaps will be key to unlocking India's agricultural potential and ensuring sustainable growth.
Agri-Tech: The Silent Revolution About to Shake the Soil!
India’s Agri-Tech revolution is unfolding rapidly. With government accelerator funds, digital infrastructure initiatives like Agri Stack, and AI-powered precision farming, the sector is poised for transformative growth. Startups like Reshamandi and Agrirain are already bridging gaps in market access, irrigation, and supply chains. However, to fully unlock its potential, India needs clear regulatory policies for CRISPR and vertical farming, better financing models for small farmers, and improved digital infrastructure. With a $6.15 billion market potential, AgriTech is India’s next big leap—if we invest now. The future of farming is here, and the time to act is now.
(2) National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE). AgriRain: Startup Success Story. https://www.manage.gov.in/publications/agristartup%20stories/5_AgriRain%20_SAIP_Startup%20Sucess%20Story %205.pdf
Great insights
The impact of Agri tech is huge
Amazing, i can feel a sense of satisfaction after reading this article