TRANSFORMING AGRICULTURE WITH AI: BENEFITS, RELEVANCE, AND CHALLENGES IN THE ODISHA CONTEXT

Agriculture in Odisha is undergoing rapid transition as climate variability, labour shortages, and low productivity challenge traditional farming systems. In this context, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful enabler capable of transforming agricultural practices and strengthening long-term sustainability. This article examines the benefits, relevance, and challenges of integrating AI-driven solutions into Odisha’s agricultural landscape. Drawing on recent technological advancements and empirical evidence, the study highlights the role of AI in enhancing crop monitoring, precision input management, weather forecasting, pest and disease detection, supply-chain optimisation, and data-supported decision-making. The relevance of AI for Odisha is underscored by its diverse agro-climatic zones, high dependency on monsoon rainfall, increasing climate-induced risks, and the need for resource-efficient, resilient farming systems. Despite these opportunities, the adoption of AI technologies faces multiple challenges including low digital literacy, infrastructure gaps, limited internet connectivity in rural areas, high implementation costs, and concerns related to data privacy and algorithmic reliability. The article argues that successful integration of AI in Odisha’s agriculture requires targeted capacity building, public-private partnerships, farmer-centric digital platforms, supportive policies, and context-specific innovations. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers, researchers, and agritech stakeholders seeking to advance AI-enabled sustainable agriculture in Odisha.