ICAR-CCARI inks MoU with Business Kendra, Kerala to Harness IoT, AI & ML

    In a major step toward the integration of cutting-edge technologies in coastal agriculture and allied sectors, a MoU was signed between ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute and Business Kendra, a Kerala-based technology venture specializing in sensor-based IoT and machine learning integrated solutions on 03/07/2025.

    Through this collaboration, sensor-driven decision support tools developed by Business Kendra and its associates will be evaluated, calibrated, and optimized by ICAR-CCARI. These tools are designed to provide real-time data on farm operations, enable automation of field management, and address specific challenges in coastal ecosystems. The technologies are expected to transform practices in agriculture, fisheries, and allied sectors, particularly in resource-constrained coastal regions.

    The importance of automation and AI-driven technologies in Indian agriculture was highlighted by Dr. Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR-CCARI. It was noted that the initiative is aligned with India’s vision to emerge as a global leader in AI-enabled agriculture by 2047, as envisioned by the Hon’ble Prime Minister. The deployment of such tools is expected to enhance productivity and profitability, conserve critical resources, mitigate labor shortages, and make farming more attractive to the younger generation.

    The role of ICAR-CCARI in bridging public and private innovations and delivering them to the farmer’s field was recognized by Shri Arun Thomas, Project Consultant, Business Kendra. The institute’s efforts have been instrumental in ensuring that technological advancements are translated into measurable benefits for coastal communities.

    The proactive role of the ITMU in fostering public-private partnerships was also acknowledged. Dr. Sreekanth G B, Co-Nodal Officer, ITMU, stated that this collaboration is expected to lead to the joint development of next-generation agri-tech solutions, specifically tailored for the complexities of coastal agriculture.