The World Economic Forum (WEF) has released a landmark report titled Shaping the Deep-Tech Revolution in Agriculture, spotlighting seven emerging technologies poised to revolutionize global farming practices. Among these, generative AI, robotics, nanotechnology, and satellite-enabled remote sensing are expected to play a transformative role in boosting agricultural productivity, resilience, and sustainability.
The report, developed in collaboration with industry and academic stakeholders, arrives at a time when agriculture faces mounting challenges including climate extremes, soil degradation, water scarcity, and rural-to-urban migration. It emphasizes that deep-tech innovations are not only essential for enhancing yields but also for securing rural livelihoods and ensuring food security.
Key technologies identified in the report include:
- Generative AI for predictive analytics and smart decision-making
- Robotics for precision farming and labor efficiency
- Computer vision for crop monitoring and disease detection
- Edge IoT for real-time data collection and automation
- CRISPR for genetic crop improvement
- Satellite-enabled remote sensing for large-scale land assessment
- Nanotechnology for targeted nutrient delivery and soil health enhancement
The WEF report draws on several case studies from India, showcasing how these technologies are already being piloted and scaled. Examples include AI-enabled crop planning tools in Maharashtra, drone-based pesticide application in Punjab, and nanotech-based soil enhancers used in Tamil Nadu. These initiatives demonstrate India’s growing role as a testbed for agricultural innovation.
The report also calls for a global framework to support the adoption of deep-tech in agriculture, urging governments, private sector players, and research institutions to collaborate on policy, infrastructure, and education. It stresses the need for inclusive models that empower smallholder farmers and bridge the digital divide.
With food production needing to increase by 70% by 2050 to meet global demand, the WEF asserts that embracing deep-tech is no longer optional—it is imperative.
