AI-Based Weather Forecasting for Farmers

Exam-Focused Notes on AI-based Agricultural Initiatives in India

1. AI-based Weather Forecasting Initiatives:

• Implemented in 13 states of India for Kharif 2025.
• Supported by Development Innovation Lab—India.
• Utilizes an open-source mixed model combining:
  • Neural GCM
  • European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF)
  • Artificial Intelligence Forecasting System (AIFS)
  • India Meteorological Department (IMD) data spanning 125 years.
• Aims to provide local early monsoon forecasts critical for determining sowing dates.

2. Outreach and Impact:

• Forecasts disseminated via M-Kisan portal to 3,88,45,214 farmers in five regional languages: Hindi, Odia, Marathi, Bengali, and Punjabi.
• Feedback from farmers in Madhya Pradesh and Bihar indicated that 31-52% adjusted their planting decisions regarding land preparation and crop input options.

3. Government Initiatives Using AI:

• Kisan e-Mitra:
  • A voice-based AI chatbot for assisting farmers with queries related to:
    • Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi
    • Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
    • Kisan Credit Card.
  • Operates in 11 regional languages.
  • Handles over 8,000 queries daily, answering more than 93 lakh questions to date.
• National Pest Monitoring System:
  • Utilizes AI and machine learning to detect pest infestations in crops.
  • Facilitates timely interventions to mitigate crop damage.
  • In use by 10,000+ extension workers, assists in taking pest pictures to reduce crop losses.
  • Supports prevention for 66 crops and 432+ pests.

4. Satellite-based Crop Mapping:

• Uses AI analysis of farm images for crop-weather match monitoring.

5. Broader Agricultural Policies and Impact:

• AI systems aim to improve crop productivity, sustainability, and farmers' livelihoods.
• Addresses diverse issues within the agricultural sector through technology-driven solutions.
• Spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare.

These initiatives represent a significant advancement in the application of AI technologies within Indian agriculture, showcasing how governmental policies and modern technological solutions are being employed to tackle challenges faced by the agricultural community.