Agriculture, a sustainable activity that faces challenges even in the most favorable conditions, requires a determination that few other professions require. Feelings of fear, frustration, uncertainty and anxiety are constant companions for farmers as they struggle with the ever-evolving challenges of each season. But in the current situation, the burden of feeding the ever-growing population of the earth has reached an unprecedented level, exacerbating the difficulties of the people working in the land.
Climate change
a looming crisis affecting different parts of the world, has particularly increased the challenges facing farmers. Extreme weather events such as heat stress, drought, floods and variable weather events including seasonal rainfall and temperature fluctuations are increasingly disrupting agriculture. At the same time, essential natural resources such as water, which are essential for food production in ever-difficult conditions, are under greater stress.
A daunting task
Basically, growing food today is scarier than ever. Ironically, this challenge coincides with an increasing demand for farmers to produce more food than at any other time. Despite these difficulties, farmers are real heroes who navigate the complexities of their profession with commitment, dedication and determination. On National Farmers Day, it’s fitting to salute these heroes and recognize their invaluable contributions. But beyond expressions of gratitude, it is necessary to take concrete steps to empower farmers. The goal is to provide them with the tools to grow more food, promote sustainability and achieve financial security.
Fortunately, the current era offers opportunities to meet these challenges through the rapid development of technology. Applying existing technology-based solutions can significantly increase farm productivity and sustainability, which ultimately improves farmers’ lives. Advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, drones and satellite imaging, as well as everyday technologies such as automatic alerts sent to farmers’ phones, offer opportunities for change. When integrated, the power of these technologies paves the way for precision agriculture- the practice of using inputs at the right time and in the right amount based on weather conditions, soil health, pest incidence, and general crop conditions. Precision farming not only increases yield, but also promotes long-term soil health and increases rural fertility.
This practice, which requires more precise use of inputs, incurs costs for farmers. At the same time, improved productivity and better crop quality allow farmers to earn higher incomes. The technologically advanced Internet of Things (IoT) plays a key role in creating a connected agricultural ecosystem. IoT devices, such as sensors installed in fields, collect real-time information about soil moisture, temperature and other critical factors. This data is then processed using artificial intelligence algorithms to provide farmers with actionable insights. For example, farmers can receive notifications on their smartphones about optimal planting times or the need for watering depending on the prevailing weather conditions. Increased accuracy Drones and satellite imagery will further improve the precision of farming practices. These technologies allow farmers to assess the health status of their crops, identify areas at risk of pest infestation, and monitor the overall condition of their fields. Such detailed information enables farmers to make informed decisions, implement targeted measures and minimize waste in terms of both resources and effort. Technological integration goes beyond sectors and includes economic and logistical aspects. Mobile apps that provide market information, facilitate online sales and connect farmers directly to consumers promote a more efficient and transparent agricultural supply chain.
This not only reduces dependence on middlemen, but also ensures that farmers get real value for their produce. As we celebrate National Farmers Day, don’t let it be just a day of thanks, but a call to action. Let’s commit to harnessing technology and promoting practices like sustainability and precision agriculture to empower our farmers. By doing so, we can work together for a future where farmers face fewer challenges, improve well-being and continue to be the backbone of global food security. Integrating technology not only increases productivity, but also promotes sustainability and ensures that the noble profession of farming remains flexible in the face of changing challenges.
