Sabour: A two-day workshop titled “Digital Agriculture – Importance and Prospects,” sponsored by BAMETI, Patna, commenced at Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, on January 6, 2025. The event aims to introduce and promote cutting-edge digital technologies to transform agricultural practices in the state.
The workshop was inaugurated by Dr. R.K. Sohane, Director of Extension Education at BAU, alongside Dr. R.N. Singh, Co-Director of Extension Education, and Dr. Abhay Mankar, Deputy Director of Training. The event has drawn participation from extension officers of the State Agriculture Department representing several districts, including Banka, Begusarai, Bhagalpur, Jamui, Katihar, Khagaria, Lakshisarai, Madhepura, Munger, Muzaffarpur, Purnia, Saharsa, and Sheikhpura.
The focus of the workshop is on leveraging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), drones, the Internet of Things (IoT), and other advanced digital tools to modernize farming, enhance productivity, and ensure sustainability.
Day One Highlights
The first day featured expert-led sessions on innovative applications of technology in agriculture. Dr. Sandeep Raj from IIIT Bhagalpur discussed AI solutions for crop disease management, while Dr. Aditya Sinha and Dr. Raghavan S from Bihar Agricultural College (BAC), Sabour, highlighted ICT-driven supply chain optimization and the role of drones in smart agriculture.
Mr. Nishant Saha, an alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, shared insights on technological innovations in agriculture startups, providing participants with a practical perspective on integrating technology into farming practices.
Day Two Focus
The second day of the workshop will delve into ICT-based systems for animal husbandry and dairy farming. Discussions will also cover the integration of IoT, Big Data, and AI/ML technologies to advance smart farming techniques.
Dr. D.R. Singh, Vice Chancellor of BAU, emphasized the transformative potential of technology in agriculture. “Innovations such as AI and drones can enhance crop productivity while reducing costs,” he stated, reiterating the need for adopting digital tools to drive the next green revolution.
Dr. Aditya Sinha, Assistant Professor of Extension Education at BAC, and the organizing secretary of the workshop, echoed this sentiment. “The second green revolution lies in the use of technology,” he said.
