The world’s agricultural practices have been impacted by the world’s growing population and escalating climate crises. To cope with such harsh conditions, the agricultural industry must find a way to produce more food while using fewer resources. 5G internet, as well as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, are expected to address such negative issues.
5G is expected to improve the effectiveness of farming practices, thereby, meeting the global food demand for a growing population. 5G-enabled solutions are expected to ease the agricultural industry into a modern era of agriculture that uses smart farming practices that reduce wastage and increase the quality and quantity of yield.
Ways in which 5G technology can boost Indian agriculture production
Irrigation and water management-
Climate change has had a significant impact on groundwater availability and rainfall forecasting. Smart farming practices, on the other hand, can assist small and medium-sized farmers in overcoming water scarcity and drought-like conditions. For example, sensors embedded in the soil, in conjunction with drones, can collect valuable data about moisture levels and highlight problem areas. When this data is processed by machine learning algorithms, it will be clear to farmers which parts of the field require the most watering. The increased internet speed of 5G will facilitate the transmission of such large data sets.
Variable Rate Technology (VRT)-
Variable Rate Technology (VRT) employs 5G-powered sensors to measure soil properties as well as crop characteristics in real time. The information gathered by this tool is then calculated to determine the amount of fertiliser, water, or pesticide required. This tool will assist the farmer in increasing output, saving money on pesticides and fertilisers, and conserving the environment by only using what is required.
Livestock Management-
Sensor collars could continuously monitor livestock health and track their movements. They will also notify the farmer if something does not appear to be right. These trackers can also ensure that cows are milked only when they are ready. To function properly, such sensors will require low-latency and high-volume networks, which only 5G can provide.
Accurate and timely weather forecasting-
Using 5G to track changing weather patterns will help farmers overcome water scarcity and dry spells by making better use of their resources. The accuracy and speed with which 5G technologies will be able to collect data will allow farmers to respond quickly to weather events and avoid crop damage.
Supply chain efficiency-
The Indian agritech industry is currently working on leveraging 5G internet and technologies to develop integrated solutions that will provide farmers with real-time wide market access, market linkages, quality standardisation, access to storage, access to finance, and vital business insights for post-harvest improvement. 5G technologies will also assist farmers in utilising price differences between off-season and on-season produce to increase rural farm incomes, as well as connecting them to retailers, traders, and exporters willing to buy their produce.
Conclusion
5G technologies will aid in the preservation of natural plant conditions and aim to reduce cultivation costs, resource waste, and electricity costs.
Also Read: AI Advancement: Role in 5G and Robotics
