Maharashtra Sugar Mills Use AI to Boost Sugarcane Yields
In a landmark move to modernize sugarcane farming, the Vasantdada Sugar Institute (VSI) and the Agricultural Development Trust (ADT) in Baramati have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into the sugarcane cultivation process. The collaboration brings together several stakeholders, including the Maharashtra State Cooperative Sugar Factory Federation and the West India Sugar Mills Association, to deploy AI technology across the state's sugarcane fields.
Addressing Key Challenges in Sugarcane Production
VSI President Sharad Pawar highlighted the critical issue of low sugarcane yields, which has led to short crushing seasons at many sugar factories, sometimes lasting only 100 days or less. This inefficiency means factory machinery remains underutilized, harming the financial stability of mills. “The solution to this problem lies in boosting the yield per acre of sugarcane,” Pawar explained. By harnessing AI, the aim is to optimize production processes and significantly increase the overall yield. The ultimate goal is to improve sugar production and increase by-products such as ethanol.
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AI Experiments in Baramati Show Promise
The ADT, based in Baramati, has already begun using AI tools to improve sugarcane yields, with initial experiments showing positive results. Experts such as Ajit Gavkar from Oxford University and Dr. Ranveer Chandra, Executive Director at Microsoft, have facilitated the project. Project Farm Vibes, launched in 2023 under the guidance of Microsoft Research, is the backbone of this AI initiative. This suite of farm-focused technologies is now open-sourced, allowing researchers, farmers, and students to convert agricultural data into actionable insights, thereby improving efficiency and cutting costs.
Through this collaborative effort, AI technology is set to become a game-changer for Maharashtra’s sugarcane farming, bringing long-term benefits to both farmers and sugar mills.
