On February 20, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, emphasised the significant role that artificial intelligence (AI) can play in fostering climate-resilient agricultural practices. He referred to the state’s MahaVISTAAR AI initiative, which aims to offer a comprehensive solution for farmers. In his statements, CM Fadnavis noted that due to the impacts of climate change, there is a pressing need for agriculture that can withstand such challenges. Currently, the MahaVISTAAR initiative has approximately 2.5 million farmers utilizing its app, which serves as a centralized resource for agricultural support.

Addressing Global Agricultural Challenges

During his address at the India AI Summit 2026, CM Fadnavis spoke about the increasing difficulties faced by the global agricultural sector. He pointed out that food systems worldwide are under significant stress due to changing climate conditions, declining water supplies, deteriorating soil quality, and unstable supply chains. He underscored that for many countries within the Global South, agriculture transcends mere economic activity, acting as a foundation for livelihoods, social stability, and national security. According to Fadnavis, India is acutely aware of these realities and has prioritized the development of digital public infrastructure and responsible AI under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Focus on Inclusion and Technological Integration

Fadnavis stated that the India AI Mission is geared towards leveraging technology to enhance inclusion, transparency, and scalability, placing agriculture at the forefront of these efforts. He highlighted that over 500 million Indians rely on agriculture, yet smallholder farmers often contend with fragmented information, rising costs, climate unpredictability, and restricted access to credit and markets. He reiterated the mission’s focus on making technology work for the agricultural sector so that its benefits can reach those who need them most.

Importance of AI in Agricultural Development

The Chief Minister underscored that the future of agriculture lies in harnessing technologies such as AI to address the pressing issues farmers face today. He remarked that the integration of AI into agricultural practices is essential for creating a resilient farming community capable of adapting to various challenges, including climate change and market fluctuations. The commitment to using AI within agriculture presents an opportunity for significant improvements in productivity and sustainability.

Discussion on the Future of AI

The India AI Impact Summit 2026 serves as a platform for policymakers, industry experts, and technology leaders to engage in discussions about the potential of artificial intelligence in enhancing innovation and fostering economic growth. The summit aims to explore how AI can be effectively utilized across various sectors, including agriculture, to drive sustainable development and resilience against climate-related challenges.

Commitment to Agricultural Sustainability

In conclusion, the initiatives led by the Maharashtra government, particularly through the MahaVISTAAR AI programme, signify a progressive approach towards integrating cutting-edge technology into traditional practices. By ensuring that farmers have access to timely and reliable information through these digital platforms, the state aims to build a robust agricultural framework that can withstand future uncertainties. This technological shift is a step towards transforming agricultural resilience in Maharashtra and beyond.

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