An integrated approach for sustainable agriculture using advanced techniques: An Indian context

Agriculture is the cornerstone of human society and development, and this is a primary livelihood source of India, where more than 60% of rural farmers are completely depended on farming practices with several obstacles. Conventional farming techniques are incapable in handling dynamic farming practices, namely inadequate infrastructure, fragmented landholdings, and climate changes. On the other hand, financial constraints, poor internet connectivity with low digital literacy, and unawareness are several factors making them fail to adopt advanced technologies. In considering these issues, the paper proposes an approach for sustainable agriculture employing big data framework integrated internet of agricultural things (BDIIoAT) and sustainable farming practices. The proposed approach focusses on the actual data engendered from Internet of Things (IoT) devices, applying remote sensing and then weather forecasts to provide mechanisms for data-driven decision-making and to promote sustainable practices, better crop selection according to soil and climate conditions that are suitable for the crop. It also presents market-based insights supporting farmers to determine their crop value and demand in the current market, providing improved decision-making and economy. The results indicate that the proposed approach is significantly greater than the traditional approaches as it strengthens effective resource utilization, reduced cost and efforts, reduced ecological footprint and improved production. The proposed method also targets improved agricultural practices, protecting the environment and facilitating farmers to improve financially with the empowered technology-based learned decision-making. Overall, the proposed framework is a holistic model of modernization for agriculture in India. As such, the framework created a foundation that can be developed further with technology, biotechnology, and sustainability with an opportunity for productivity, environmental health, and profitability. Putting agriculture into a single integrated model can also serve as a model for future agriculture development in India.