Why in the news?

  • The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoAFW) is implementing an AI-based weather forecasting program targeted at farmers.

AI Weather Forecasting for Farmers

  • What is it?: It is the usage of AI powered tools to provide weather forecasts to farmers helping them to plan their farming practices accordingly.
  • Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
  • Key Facts:
    • Forecasts are being sent to nearly 3.8 crore farmers, across 13 states using SMS via m-Kisan.
    • Forecasts are available up to four weeks in advance of rainfall.
    • Models used: a blend of two open-access AI models — Google’s Neural GCM and ECMWF’s Artificial Intelligence Forecasting Systems (AIFS).
    • The program involves collaboration with “Development Innovation Lab – India” and “Precision Development”, and direct engagement with farmers to ensure forecasts are understandable and actionable.
  • Significance:
    • For the farmer:
      • Crop Planning: Helps decide sowing, transplanting, irrigation schedules.
      • Risk Reduction: Reduces losses from delayed/erratic rains.
      • Resource Use Efficiency: Optimises fertilizer and water use.
      • Accessibility: Delivered directly through SMS in local languages for easy adoption.
    • Climate Resilience: Strengthens India’s adaptation strategy to climate change.
    • Digital Agriculture: Example of AI in governance and service delivery.
    • Inclusive Growth: Benefits small & marginal farmers, who are most vulnerable to weather shocks.
    • Global Leadership: India emerging as a test-bed for AI-driven agricultural innovation.
  • Challenges:
    • Last-mile connectivity: Not all farmers have mobile access or digital literacy.
    • Accuracy limits: AI models depend on data quality; local micro-climate variations may reduce reliability.
    • Interpretability: Farmers need advisory services, not just raw forecasts.
  • Way Forward:
    • Institutional coordination: IMD, MoAFW, private partners must integrate seamlessly.
    • Integration with Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs): To translate forecasts into actionable advisories.
    • Regional Customisation: District/block-level micro-forecasts.
    • Capacity Building: Train farmers to interpret and use forecasts.
    • Expansion: Scale beyond 13 states to pan-India coverage.
    • Synergy: Link with crop insurance schemes (PMFBY) and climate-smart agriculture programs.