See discussions, stats, and author profiles for this publication at: https://www.researchgate.

net/publication/378745014

FUTURE IN AGRICULTURE AND AGRICULTURE IN FUTURE

Article · March 2024

CITATIONS READS

0 366

6 authors, including:

Siddharth Atulkumar Gevariya P. H. Rank

Junagadh Agricultural University Junagadh Agricultural University
2 PUBLICATIONS 0 CITATIONS 32 PUBLICATIONS 182 CITATIONS

SEE PROFILE SEE PROFILE

Kamlesh Patel Rajnikumar Patel

Junagadh Agricultural University Junagadh Agricultural University
10 PUBLICATIONS 23 CITATIONS 70 PUBLICATIONS 245 CITATIONS

SEE PROFILE SEE PROFILE

All content following this page was uploaded by P. H. Rank on 06 March 2024.

The user has requested enhancement of the downloaded file.

 ISSN : 2583-0910
Peer reviewed
Agri-India TODAY monthly newsletter
visit us at www.agriindiatoday.in

Article ID : 04/III/36/0324
FUTURE IN AGRICULTURE AND AGRICULTURE IN FUTURE
S. A. Gevariya, P. H. Rank*, K. C. Patel, R. J. Patel, P. B. Vekariyaand and H. D. Rank
Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh-362001. Gujarat State, INDIA.
*Corresponding Email: [email protected]

ABSTRACT
The future of agriculture presents both challenges and opportunities. This article explores the
impact of technological advancements like precision agriculture, technological interventions in
land and water management, vertical farmingetc to enhance the productivities per unit of land
and water inputs, while emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices like regenerative
agriculture and organic farming. It delves into the potential impact on rural communities, food
security, and human health, addressing ethical concerns around data privacy and job
displacement. Ultimately, it emphasizes the crucial role of collaboration between policymakers,
businesses, and consumers in shaping a sustainable and equitable future for agriculture, ensuring
a secure food system for generations to come.
Key Words : Technology, Sustainability, Rural Communities, Food Security, Collaboration
1. INTRODUCTION
Two phrases, one crucial distinction: "Agriculture in the Future" and "Future in Agriculture" both
explore the changing landscape of our food system, but with a subtle shift in focus. "Agriculture in
the Future" dives into the specific technologies and practices that will transform how we grow
food, analysing robots in fields, vertical farms in cities, and gene-edited crops. It's a deep dive into
the toolbox of the future farmer. Conversely, "Future in Agriculture" takes a broader perspective,
examining the societal and economic implications of these changes. It asks how these innovations
will impact rural communities, food security, and our relationship with the land itself. It's about
the wider ripples the future of agriculture will create. While both approaches are crucial,
understanding this subtle difference allows you to navigate the complex and fascinating world of
agriculture's evolution.
In India, the land of vibrant festivals and fertile plains, agriculture is not just a profession, but a
lifeline. It nourishes over half the population, shapes traditions, and fuels the economy. Yet, dark
clouds loom on the horizon. A burgeoning population demands more food, while climate change
throws erratic weather and water scarcity at its feet. Land degradation adds to the woes,
threatening the very foundation of this vital sector. Can India navigate these challenges and ensure
food security for its future generations? This article explores the critical role of agriculture in
India's survival, the formidable challenges it faces, and the potential solutions that offer a glimmer
of hope amidst the storm (Kelaiya and Rank, 2019; Kumar and Rank, 2021; Rank et al., 2020;
Kumar and Rank, 2023). The entire future of an agriculture was, is and will be depended on the
basic inputs of land and water.
India's agricultural heart beats for over half its population, providing sustenance and shaping its
cultural tapestry. But a storm gathers. By 2050, feeding millions more will demand a 70% rise in
food production. Climate change throws punches of erratic weather, water scarcity, and extreme
events, jeopardizing harvests. Land, the very foundation, erodes, salinizes, and shrinks. These
challenges are not distant worries, but an urgent call to action. Failure to adapt could lead to food
Volume 04 | Issue 03 | 167 |
 ISSN : 2583-0910
Peer reviewed
Agri-India TODAY monthly newsletter
visit us at www.agriindiatoday.in

insecurity, malnutrition, and social unrest, jeopardizing not just livelihoods, but the nation's
future. Water scarcity will be the critical issue in the agriculture for the future (Patel et al, 2014,
Patel et al, 2019, Rank et al., 2016, Patel, 2019, Patel and Rank, 2020, Patel et al., 2023a, Patel et
al, 2023b,). This needs efficient water use in the agriculture, which consumes the lion share of
total water use.
The interweaving of innovative and suitable technologies of land and water management along
with policy supports can strengthen the agriculture in future and build the future in agriculture
(Paghadalet al., 2019a, Patel and Rank, 2020; Gupta et al., 2021, Vekariyaet al., 2022, Patel et al.,
2023a, Patel et al., 2023b, Rank et al., 2023b,Vekariyaet al., 2023). There are two distinct faces
:Agriculture in the Future and Future in Agriculture which delves into the specific technologies and
practices shaping how we grow food (e.g., robotics, vertical farming, gene editing), while also
exploring the broader societal and economic implications of these changes (e.g., impact on rural
communities, food security, ethical considerations).
The increasing population pressure, standard of living, infractural development, climate change
and increasing demands of land and water resources from competing sectors would be the prime
drivers for the agriculture in future and future in agriculture (Paghdalet al, 2019a, Paghdalet al,
2019b, Rank et al., 2019; Rank et al., 2022a, Rank et al., 2022b, Rank et al., 2022c; Rank and
Satasiya, 2022; Rank and Vishnu, 2019, Rank and Vishnu, 2021a, Rank and Vishnu, 2021b, Rank
and Vishnu, 2023c). Thus, land and water resource availability would be the foundation of
development in agriculture. The agriculture sector is of prime importance to India's economy as it
contributes 14%–15% to the country's gross domestic product and provides employment
opportunities to over 55% of the population (Chand et al., 2017).
2. CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
2.1 Challenges
Population growth and increasing food demand
India's burgeoning population, projected to reach 1.5 billion by 2050, demands a significant
increase in food production. This puts immense pressure on existing agricultural resources,
potentially outpacing the ability to meet growing needs.
Climate change and its impact on agriculture
Erratic weather patterns, rising temperatures, and extreme events like droughts and floods are
already disrupting agricultural production. Water scarcity, a critical challenge exacerbated by
climate change, threatens irrigation and jeopardizes crop yields. These factors combined pose a
significant risk to India's food security.
Land degradation and loss of biodiversity
Soil erosion, salinization, and overuse are diminishing fertile land, shrinking the area available for
cultivation. This land degradation not only reduces agricultural output but also impacts the
ecosystem's ability to support vital pollinators and maintain soil health.
Resource depletion (water, soil nutrients)
Water scarcity is a major concern, with agriculture being the largest user. Unsustainable practices
are depleting groundwater reserves, further jeopardizing irrigation and agricultural sustainability.
Additionally, soil nutrient depletion due to excessive use of fertilizers and inadequate
replenishment threatens long-term crop productivity.

Volume 04 | Issue 03 | 168 |

 ISSN : 2583-0910
Peer reviewed
Agri-India TODAY monthly newsletter
visit us at www.agriindiatoday.in

Social and economic inequalities in access to food and resources

Unequal access to land, water, technology, and financial resources creates disparities in
agricultural productivity and income. Marginalized communities often struggle to access resources
and adapt to changing climatic conditions, exacerbating food insecurity and social inequities.
2.2 Opportunities
Technological advancements
From precision agriculture using sensors and data analytics to optimize resource use to robots
automating tasks and AI-powered pest control, technology promises increased efficiency,
productivity, and sustainability. Vertical farming, with its controlled environments and efficient
resource utilization, offers solutions for urban areas and limited land. These advancements
require careful integration and equitable access to avoid exacerbating existing inequalities.
Sustainable farming practices
Regenerative agriculture aims to rebuild soil health and biodiversity, while organic farming
eliminates harmful chemicals and fosters healthier ecosystems. Agroforestry integrates trees with
crops, providing multiple benefits like shade, nitrogen fixation, and improved soil health. These
practices offer long-term sustainability and environmental benefits, but require knowledge
sharing, infrastructure development, and addressing economic viability concerns.
Innovation in food systems
Alternative protein sources like plant-based meat and insect protein offer solutions to meet
growing protein demands while reducing environmental impact. Personalized nutrition, tailoring
food intake to individual needs, can optimize health outcomes and reduce food waste. These
innovations require robust research, regulatory frameworks, and consumer education to ensure
safety and acceptability.
Increased consumer awareness
Growing demand for sustainable food choices drives market forces towards more responsible
practices. Consumers are willing to pay premiums for ethically and environmentally sourced
products. This shift in consumer behaviour incentivizes farmers and businesses to adopt
sustainable practices, creating a virtuous cycle for positive change.
Policy and investment
Supportive policies promoting sustainable practices, research, and infrastructure development are
crucial. Investments in farmer education, access to technology, and market linkages can empower
farmers to adopt sustainable solutions. Collaborative efforts between governments, businesses,
and research institutions are essential to create an enabling environment for a sustainable future
of agriculture.
The harnessing of these opportunities and overcoming challenges, we can navigate towards a
future where agriculture is not only productive but also sustainable, resilient, and equitable,
nourishing both humanity and the planet.
3. AGRICULTURE IN THE FUTURE
The future of agriculture gleams with the promise of innovative solutions that will transform how
we grow food. Precision agriculture, armed with sensors, drones, and data analytics, promises to
optimize resource use, tailoring water and fertilizers to individual plants' needs. Robots are taking
over tedious tasks like weeding and harvesting, while artificial intelligence is optimizing irrigation

Volume 04 | Issue 03 | 169 |

 ISSN : 2583-0910
Peer reviewed
Agri-India TODAY monthly newsletter
visit us at www.agriindiatoday.in

systems and predicting crop yields. Vertical farms, towering structures in urban areas, defy space
constraints, producing fresh food with minimal environmental impact.
These advancements, however, are not without their drawbacks. Reliance on technology can
create dependencies and potential vulnerabilities. Concerns exist about data privacy, access, and
ownership in a world of sensor-driven agriculture. The initial cost of implementing these
technologies can be high, potentially widening the gap between large and small farmers. Ethical
considerations surrounding automation and potential job displacement in rural communities
require careful attention.
The impact of these changes will be multifaceted. Farmers will need to adapt to new
technologies, acquiring digital skills and embracing data-driven decision-making. Rural
communities may face challenges as traditional farming practices evolve, requiring investment in
reskilling and diversifying local economies. The food system itself will likely see increased
efficiency, potentially lower food prices, and wider access to nutritious food, but concerns about
corporate control and the potential homogenization of agricultural practices need to be
addressed.
Globally, examples are emerging of these solutions taking root. In Israel, precision agriculture is
being used to optimize water usage in arid regions. Rwanda is embracing vertical farming to
address food security challenges in its urban areas. India is promoting regenerative agriculture
practices to improve soil health and farmer livelihoods. These diverse examples showcase the
adaptability and potential of these technologies across different contexts.
Navigating the future of agriculture requires a balanced approach. Embracing innovation can
unlock immense potential for sustainability and efficiency, but it is crucial to mitigate potential
drawbacks. Investing in farmer education, ensuring equitable access, and fostering inclusive rural
development are key to shaping a future where technology empowers both farmers and
consumers, leading to a more resilient and sustainable food system for all.
4. FUTURE IN AGRICULTURE
Shifting our focus beyond the farm itself, future agriculture will have profound societal and
economic implications. Rural communities, often dependent on traditional farming practices, face
potential challenges as automation and technological advancements reshape the landscape.
While these changes may offer opportunities for diversification and skill development, ensuring
equitable access to technology and education is crucial to avoid widening existing inequalities.
Policymakers must invest in rural infrastructure, skills training, and alternative income sources to
ensure vibrant and resilient rural communities.
The impact on food security, nutrition, and human health is multifaceted. Increased efficiency and
productivity have the potential to make nutritious food more accessible and affordable,
contributing to improved global food security and nutrition. However, concerns about corporate
control, homogenization of food systems, and potential disruption to traditional food cultures
must be addressed. Sustainable practices that prioritize biodiversity and nutrient density can lead
to healthier food choices and improved human health outcomes.
Ethical considerations surrounding future technologies in agriculture cannot be ignored. The
potential for job displacement, data privacy concerns, and ethical implications of gene editing
require careful consideration and open dialogue. Transparency, responsible development, and
inclusive decision-making are essential to ensure these technologies benefit all stakeholders.

Volume 04 | Issue 03 | 170 |

 ISSN : 2583-0910
Peer reviewed
Agri-India TODAY monthly newsletter
visit us at www.agriindiatoday.in

Finally, the role of policymakers, businesses, and consumers in shaping a sustainable future for
agriculture is critical. Policymakers must create regulatory frameworks that encourage responsible
innovation, support research and development, and invest in sustainable infrastructure.
Businesses need to adopt ethical practices, prioritize fair compensation for farmers, and promote
transparency in their supply chains. Consumers have the power to drive change through their
purchasing decisions, supporting sustainable and ethical food choices. By working together, we
can ensure that future agriculture nourishes not only our bodies, but also our communities and
the planet.
CONCLUSION
The future of agriculture peers a tapestry of challenges and opportunities unfolds. Climate
change, resource depletion, and population growth cast long shadows, demanding innovative
solutions. Yet, advancements in technology, sustainable practices, and a growing awareness of the
need for change offer glimmers of hope. Embracing these advancements, while ensuring
equitable access and mitigating potential drawbacks, is crucial. Collaboration is the key.
Policymakers, businesses, farmers, and consumers must work hand-in-hand to build a food system
that is not only productive and efficient, but also resilient, sustainable, and equitable. By
prioritizing sustainable practices, fostering rural development, and ensuring ethical considerations
are addressed, we can ensure that future agriculture nourishes not just our bodies, but also our
communities and the planet. Let us embrace innovation, cultivate collaboration, and collectively
shape a future where agriculture thrives, ensuring a secure and sustainable food system for
generations to come. In future, there will be a world where lush fields and innovative farms
coexist, where technology empowers farmers and nourishes communities.
REFERENCES
Chand, R., Srivastava, S.K. & Singh, J. (2017) Changing Structure of Rural Economy of India-
Implications for Employment and Growth. Delhi, India: National Institution for
Transforming India (NITI) Aayog, 1–26.
Gupta, A., Singh, R. K., Kumar, M., Sawant, C. P., & Gaikwad, B. B. (2021). On-farm irrigation water
management in India: Challenges and research gaps. Irrigation and Drainage, 70(3), 437-
447. https://doi.org/10.1002/ird.2637.
Kelaiya, J., Rank, P.H., (2019). Assessment of water balance components of bhadar river basin
using SWAT model. International Journal of Bio-resource and Stress Management 10(2),
181–184.
Kumar, D. and Rank, P. H. (2023). Estimation of crop evapotranspiration and crop coefficient for
coriander using portable automatic closed canopy chamber. Journal of Agrometeorology,
5(4):547-552.DOI: https://doi.org/10.54386/jam.v25i4.2315
Kumar, D., Rank, H.D. (2021). Comparison of Fenugreek Crop Evapotranspiration Measured by a
Micro-lysimeter, Field Water Balance Method and Automatic Closed Canopy Chamber.
International Journal of Agriculture, Environment and Biotechnology,14(1): 29-49.
Paghadal, A. M. Rank, H. D., Prajapati, G. V. Rank, P. H., Pipaliya, P. S., Pipaliya, J. S. (2019a). The
Trend Analysis of Various Components of Water Resources System of Ozat River Basin,
Gujarat, India. Int. J. Curr. Microbiol. App. Sci., 8(11), 241-267.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362948568_The_Trend_Analysis_of_Various_C
omponents_of_Water_Resources_System_of_Ozat_River_Basin_Gujarat_India.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.20546/ijcmas.2019.811.030

Volume 04 | Issue 03 | 171 |

 ISSN : 2583-0910
Peer reviewed
Agri-India TODAY monthly newsletter
visit us at www.agriindiatoday.in

Paghadal, A. M., Rank, P. H., Rank, H. D., Limbasiya, B. B., Vekariya, P. B., Vadar, H R. (2019b).
Modelling and Simulating the Groundwater Level Behavior to Climate Change for the Ozat
Basin., Int. J. Curr. Microbiol. App. Sci, 8(10),1156-1165.DOI:
10.20546/ijcmas.2019.810.135
Patel R. J., Rank P. H., Vekariya P. B., Vadar H. R., Parmar H. V., Rank H. D., Damor P. A.,
Modhvadiya J. M. (2023a). Study on physicochemical properties of clay loam soil of
Junagadh region. International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering
Technology and Science, 05(06), 3912-19.DOI:
https://www.doi.org/10.56726/IRJMETS42550.
Patel R. J., Rank, H. D., Ajudiya, B. H., Dhanani, N., V. (2014). An assessment of ground water
recharge potential through tube well, International Journal of Engineering Research &
Technology 3(10):155-160.
Patel, R. J. and Rank, H. D. (2016). Performance analysis of electrical resistance-based granular
matrix sensors for measuring soil water potential in clay loam soil. AGRES – An
International e-Journal, 5(3), 313-319.
Patel, R. J. and Rank, H. D. (2020). Water use efficiency of wheat under different irrigation regimes
using high discharge drip irrigation system. Agricultural Engineering Today, 44(2), 19-31.
Patel, R. J., Rank, P. H., Vekariya, P. B., Rank, H. D., Vadar, H. R., Parmar, H. V., and Lunagaria, M. M.
(2023b). Enhancing Wheat (Triticumaestivum L.) Crop Yield and Water Use Efficiency: A
Study on Canopy Air Temperature Difference-Based Drip Irrigation Scheduling in a Semi-
Arid Region of Western India. DOI: https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-3376468/v1
Patel, R.J. (2019). Laboratory and Field Manual on Irrigation Engineering. Scientific Publishers.
Rank, H. D., Sojitra, M. A., Patel, R. J., Vadar, H. R. and Vekariya, P. B.(2016). Validation of root
growth simulation models for cotton crop grown under specified environment. Agricultural
Research Journal, 53(4), 488-491.
Rank, P. H., Rank, H. D., Vekariya, P. B. Patel, R. J. and Kar, G. (2022a). Effectiveness of gaussian
distribution mapping for bias correction of rcm simulated temperature for junagadh region.
International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering Technology and Science,
04(11): 160-175 DOI: 10.56726/IRJMETS31007
Rank, P.H. and Satasiya, R.M. (2022). Sweet corn crop (Zea mays L.) performance under various
irrigation water management strategies. J. Pharm. Innov., 11 (6):1525-1531.
Rank, P.H. and Vishnu, B. (2019). Automation of pulsed drip irrigation. Int. J. Engg. Sci. Comp., 9
(7): 23265-23276.
Rank, P.H. and Vishnu, B. (2021a). Design concept of pulse drip irrigation, Int. J. Modern. Engg.
Tech. Sci., 03(12): 414-420.
Rank, P.H. and Vishnu, B. (2021b). Pulse drip irrigation: A review. J. Pharmacognosy and
Phytochemistry.,10 (1): 125-130.
Rank, P.H. and Vishnu, B., (2023). Validation of Models for Simulating the Soil Moisture
Characteristics. Agric. Sci. Dig., 43 (2):157-163.
Rank, P.H., Satasiya, R.M., Limbasiya, B.B., Parmar, H.V. and Prajapati, G.V. (2023a). Sweet corn crop
yield response to aerated drip irrigation under various irrigation water management
strategies, Emer. Life. Sci. Res., 9(1):10-21. DOI: https://doi.org/10.31783/elsr.2023.911021
Rank, P.H., Satasiya, R.M., Patel, D.V. and Shitap, M. (2022b). Cost economics of irrigation water
management strategies for Sweet Corn (Zea mays L.), Multi-Logic in Sci., 12(43):49-52.

Volume 04 | Issue 03 | 172 |

 ISSN : 2583-0910
Peer reviewed
Agri-India TODAY monthly newsletter
visit us at www.agriindiatoday.in

Rank, P.H., Satasiya, R.M., Vekariya, P.B., Limbasiya, B.B., Sardhara, V.K., Patel, R.J., Pandya P.A. and
Mashru H.H. (2022c). Simulating the Water Footprints of Sweet Corn (Zea Mays L.) Under
Various Irrigation Water Management Strategies Using AquCrop Model. Int. J. Modern.
Engg. Tech. Sci., 04 (08): 1572-1581.
Rank, P.H., Unjia, Y.B. and Kunapara, A.N. (2019). Soil wetting pattern under point and line source
of trickle irrigation. Int. J. Curr. Microb. Appl. Sci., 8 (07):785-792.
Rank, P.H., Vaghasiya, D.R., Lunagaria, M.M., Patel, R.J., Tiwari, M.K., and Rank, H.D. (2023b).
Climate change impacts on water flux dynamics in Shingoda basin having agriculture and
forest ecosystems: A comprehensive analysis. Journal of Agrometeorology, 25(3) : 397-403.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54386/jam.v25i3.2284
Rank, P.H., Vekariya, P.B. and Rank, H.D. (2020). Climate change impact on hydrologic system in Aji
River Basin. Res. Biotica., 2 (2): 30-39.
Vekariya, P. B., Rank, H. D., Patel, R. J. and Rank, P. H. (2022). Studies on Open Well Recharge
Techniques for Junagadh Region. International Research Journal of Modernization in
Engineering Technology. 04(08): 354-362.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/363262672_STUDIES_ON_OPEN_WELL_RECHA
RGE_TECHNIQUES_FOR_JUNAGADH_REGION#fullTextFileContent
Vekariya, P.B., Patel, R. J., Rank, P. H., Modhvadiya, J. M., Rank.H. D. (2023). Connector well
recharge techniques for junagadh region. International Research Journal of
Modernization in Engineering Technology and Science. 5(9): 385-397.
https://www.irjmets.com/uploadedfiles/paper/issue_9_september_2023/44526/final/fin_
irjmets1694165214.pdf.

Volume 04 | Issue 03 | 173 |

View publication stats