Securing crops can be done in many ways like analysing the weather and climate or setting up motion-detecting electrocuting fences. A motion detection security system can not only protect the yield from animals but also trespassers. A security system for crops based on AI uses mainly Python and OpenCV (Open Source Computer Vision Library).
This allows the programmer to segment the background and the foreground. Individually being captured on a single camera to detect any change in frames. In case there is a sudden change in frames, the AI will proceed with the necessary repercussions (example: electric fence activation and activating alarms).
How is AI used in crop yield and price forecast?
The fluctuation in the price of the yield is the biggest thing that a lot of farmers worry about. Vegetables like green beans have a very short shelf life, which leads to irregularities in the pattern of production. AI startups and companies are using weather and satellite images to monitor the health of crops.
With the help of big data, artificial intelligence and machine learning, models can be built to detect pests and diseases, improving crop health by providing real-time analysis. Models are also built to provide real-time analysis on crop yield, output, the pattern of production in yield and also price forecast using previous data.
How does AI solve the shortage of skilled labour?
With a really small number of people entering farming, most farms face a shortage of skilled labour. Originally, farms used to require a large number of workers, most of them working seasonally to harvest crops. However, as humans have moved from an agrarian to an urban and suburban society, there has been a shortage of workers.
This shortage was mitigated with the help of AI bots. These bots are used in many ways. They can produce yield at a volume higher and attain it at a faster pace than human workers. The bots perform tasks more accurately to identify and eliminate liabilities (example: an area of weed) and diminish costs for the farms by having a workforce that can possibly work 24 hours without having to take breaks.
Chatbots have also been in development. These chatbots will answer direct questions to assist farmers with what to do on their fields or pouring the right amount of water for example by distinguishing which patch of land is more dry or wet.
Companies Offering Services to Improve the Agro-based Industry in India
- NinjaCart – This company was started in 2015 to connect farmers to retailers directly, and aimed to provide fresh produce supply. They use data science and artificial intelligence to figure out solutions to problems like food wastage, inefficient supply or distribution .And low quality of food. They also use business intelligence tools to predict prices and neural networks to forecast the demand. Causing a reduction in the wastage of food.
- Aibono – Founded in 2014, Aibono uses data instruments and predictive analytics. With a total funding of $5.5M USD now, it aims to improve processes to help farmers with their yield production. Aibono syncs real-time production with real-time consumption of fruits and vegetables having low shelf life by using predictive analysis, precision farming, and harvesting at the right time.
Also Read: Advanced Technologies and Automation in Agriculture