Analysing the Adoption and Impact of Precision Farming Techniques

Abstract

In the era of climate uncertainty and growing demand for food, precision farming has emerged as a transformative solution to optimize agricultural productivity while minimizing resource use. This article critically examines the adoption patterns and measurable impacts of precision farming techniques, particularly in the Indian context. Precision agriculture, which leverages technologies such as GPS mapping, drone surveillance, IoT-based sensors, and AI-driven analytics, offers a data-centric approach to modern farming. While developed countries have rapidly embraced these innovations, developing economies like India are witnessing uneven adoption due to factors such as high initial costs, lack of technical awareness, and infrastructural challenges.

The article explores how the adoption of these technologies varies across regions, crop types, and farm sizes. It also presents empirical evidence showing that farmers using precision tools have reported up to a 40–60% increase in productivity and a significant reduction in water and fertilizer usage. Through comparative data tables and case studies, the paper highlights both success stories and barriers to widespread implementation. Additionally, it delves into government policies and the growing role of agri-tech startups in promoting technology-driven agriculture. This analysis finds that while the environmental and economic benefits of precision farming are substantial, its long-term success in countries like India will depend on inclusive policy support, farmer training, and access to affordable technologies. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable agriculture and rural development in the digital age.