New Delhi: The India Digital Agri Conference 2024, co-organized by the Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture (ICFA) and IIT Ropar TIF – AwaDH, took place today in New Delhi, focusing on the transformative potential of digital agriculture in India. The conference, which brought together policymakers, industry experts, researchers, and farmers, served as a platform for discussing the role of technology in revolutionizing traditional farming systems.
The event’s chief guest, Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, emphasized the importance of the Digital Agriculture Mission. In his address, he highlighted how technology and data-driven solutions are key to modernizing Indian agriculture and empowering farmers. The mission aims to provide farmers with real-time information and support systems, helping them make better decisions and boosting rural livelihoods. Dr. Chaturvedi underscored the pivotal role digital agriculture will play in transforming India’s agricultural landscape, making it more efficient and sustainable.
During the inaugural session, Ashwani Bakshi, CEO of the Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture, welcomed the esteemed guests and dignitaries, expressing his gratitude to the audience and sponsors for their support. Among the notable attendees were Dr. Akhilesh Gupta, Former Secretary of SERB, H.E. Jagnnath Sami, High Commissioner of the Republic of Fiji, H.E. Isse Abdillahi Assoweh, Ambassador of the Republic of Djibouti, Navneet Ravikar, CMD of Leads Connect Pvt Ltd., Suneeti Tuteja, Senior Director & Head of Food & Agriculture Dept., BIS, and Dr. Radhika Trikha, CEO of IIT Ropar-TIF AwaDH.
The day-long event featured discussions on how to revolutionize farming systems by fostering innovation through cutting-edge technologies and collaboration among farmers, tech developers, and researchers. The focus was on promoting sustainable practices through digital tools and building climate-resilient agricultural systems. Policymakers also explored aligning policy frameworks with technological advancements, creating a supportive environment for digital agriculture.
Additionally, the conference provided a platform to enhance market linkages via digital platforms, streamlining supply chains, boosting market access, and improving smallholder farmers’ livelihoods. It showcased how digital tools can help bridge the gap between traditional farming and modern technology.