“There is growth in foodgrain production, rising productivity, and increased mechanisation. India is also seeing an expansion in agro-exports. Yet, farmers remain unhappy, and their children are reluctant to continue farming. This must change. The country should move towards agriculture,” Mr. Vanavarayar said.
Highlighting the changing demographics of Indian agriculture, K.P. Singh, Additional Director General of Farm Engineering at ICAR, noted that while agriculture accounts for 18% of the GDP, 35–40% of current agri workers are women. By 2047, when India aspires to be a developed nation, that number could reach 65%. “We must proactively plan for mechanisation and technological intervention to support women-led agriculture,” he said.
Mr. Singh also pointed out that agricultural mechanisation is growing at 8% annually, while advanced technologies such as AI and robotics in agri-mechanisation are seeing 15% year-on-year growth.
In another significant development, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) has rolled out a Climate Smart Village project across 365 villages, according to its Registrar, R. Thamizh Vendan. TNAU has developed 25-year weather forecasts and sends daily weather alerts to farmers via a mobile application, benefiting over six lakh farmers, he said.
Agri Intex 2025, organised at the CODISSIA Trade Fair Complex, features over 600 stalls showcasing the latest in farm machinery, inputs, agri-tech, and allied services. Nearly two lakh farmers are expected to attend the four-day event. While entry is free for farmers with ID, the public can visit for a fee of INR 50.
