From fields to future: How automation is reshaping Indian agriculture

India’s agriculture sector remains the cornerstone of the nation’s economy, employing nearly 50 per cent of the workforce and contributing about 18 per cent to the country’s GDP. Supporting over 130 million farmers and numerous agri-businesses, agriculture in India is as much a livelihood as it is a cultural heritage. Yet, for decades, this vital sector has struggled with challenges ranging from labor shortages to climate unpredictability, resulting in stagnant productivity. Traditional farming methods have often limited the sector’s growth, keeping yields low and profit margins slim for millions of small and marginal farmers who make up nearly 85% of India’s farming community.

However, automation technologies, led by the adoption of drones, IoT, and robotics, are setting the stage for a new agricultural era. Over 3,000 agricultural drones are already operational in India, with this number expected to exceed 7,000 by 2025, promising enhanced farming efficiency and productivity. These technologies bring the potential to transform farming by reducing labour dependency and enhancing productivity. For example, drones are revolutionising how farmers manage their land, enabling them to conduct precision land mapping, crop health assessments, nutrient management, and efficient spraying and irrigation. In line with these advancements, the government’s investment of ₹1,261 crore for initiatives such as the “Namo Drone Didi” scheme is playing a pivotal role. This scheme empowers 15,000 women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs), allowing them to offer drone rental services to farmers—an initiative that not only bolsters agricultural efficiency but also promotes rural entrepreneurship among women.

Automation’s impact on resource efficiency and cost reduction

Automation is addressing one of Indian agriculture’s most pressing issues: resource management. In a country where nearly 50 per cent of the land is classified as dry or arid, drones can revolutionise resource use, enabling precise water management and targeted crop support. With drones, farmers can reduce water usage by up to 70 per cent and cut fertiliser consumption by 20-30 per cent, which is especially valuable in regions affected by water scarcity. Efficient resource usage not only lowers operational costs but also reduces environmental strain, a crucial factor given India’s rank of 107 on the Global Hunger Index. By optimising the use of inputs, farmers can minimise waste and save on operational costs, making farming more sustainable and financially viable. This is crucial for small farmers, who often operate on limited budgets and face seasonal fluctuations in both yield and profit.

Furthermore, precision agriculture — a practice enabled by automated technologies — ensures that every drop of water, every ounce of fertiliser, and every investment of time is maximised to deliver the highest yield possible. As these technologies become more widespread, Indian agriculture is on the path to becoming more environmentally sustainable and resilient to the challenges posed by climate change.

Building rural capacity by training workforce at grassroot level

The introduction of automation is not just about new tools; it’s about building a workforce skilled in using these tools effectively. Training initiatives are in place for 5,000 rural entrepreneurs to become proficient in drone operations are focused to upskill rural youth. This will also help to make them key players in agriculture’s technological transformation. Organisations like IFFCO are spearheading initiatives to equip rural entrepreneurs with the skills to operate and maintain drones and other agricultural technologies. These efforts foster an ecosystem of skilled service providers who offer their expertise to farmers, creating a ripple effect of job opportunities in rural areas.

For young people in rural communities, automation brings fresh career paths, allowing them to work in high-demand roles as drone operators, technicians, and data analysts within the agricultural sector. By linking technology with rural livelihoods, India is fostering a new generation of farmers and agripreneurs who are not only adopting new skills but are also actively contributing to a more modern, efficient agricultural system.

A vision for the future: Modernising farmer’s role

As India continues to embrace automation, the role of the farmer is evolving. No longer bound by the limitations of manual labor, today’s farmers are increasingly informed decision-makers, utilising data and technology to maximise efficiency and productivity. Automation allows them to make precise, timely choices about crop cycles, resource allocation, and market strategies, transforming farming into a dignified and sustainable profession.

The journey of Indian agriculture from traditional methods to modern practices is more than just a technological shift—it’s a cultural evolution that has the potential to inspire a new generation of agriculturalists. Automation is already altering the fabric of Indian farming, enabling farmers to become agri-preneurs with control over their economic future. This is particularly significant as the next generation of farmers and agricultural workers will need to balance heritage with modern practices, blending tradition with technological savvy.

In conclusion, the adoption of automation in Indian agriculture is ushering in an era of growth and resilience. With the government’s backing, the support of private organisations, and a skilled workforce on the rise, India is well-positioned to lead in the global agricultural sector. Automation not only promises greater yields and sustainable practices but also offers a pathway to economic prosperity for millions of rural families. As India navigates this exciting transition, the potential for a stronger, smarter, and more sustainable agricultural sector grows brighter with each passing season.

Automation is more than just a tool—it’s a catalyst for India’s farmers to transcend the limitations of the past and cultivate a prosperous future. The road ahead is rich with opportunity, and with the power of innovation in their hands, Indian farmers are ready to shape the next chapter of agriculture.

The author is Founder and MD of AVPL International