SBI Foundation & ICRISAT Launch SMART-CROP
In a landmark move to boost sustainable farming in India’s semi-arid regions, the SBI Foundation, in collaboration with ICRISAT, University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) Raichur, and Agribridge, has launched the SMART-CROP Project — Sustainable Monitoring and Real-Time Tracking for Crop Resilience and Optimal Practices.
This three-year initiative aims to empower 8,000+ smallholder farmers across Karnataka and Telangana, equipping them with AI, satellite imaging, and data-driven tools for smart agriculture.
Project Overview
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | SMART-CROP |
| Full Form | Sustainable Monitoring and Real-Time Tracking for Crop Resilience and Optimal Practices |
| Duration | 3 Years |
| Coverage | 8,000+ Farmers |
| Regions | Karnataka (Bidar, Kalaburagi, Raichur) & Telangana (Sangareddy, Vikarabad) |
| Supported By | SBI Foundation’s LEAP Programme |
| Technology Used | Satellite imaging, remote sensing, AI/ML analytics |
| Partners | SBI Foundation, ICRISAT, UAS Raichur, Agribridge |
SMART-CROP Project Objectives
The SMART-CROP initiative focuses on creating a climate-resilient and technology-driven agricultural ecosystem. Its core objectives include:
- Real-time crop monitoring using satellite data and AI tools
- Early detection of climate risks, pest infestations, and soil degradation
- Providing actionable insights to farmers for better decisions
- Promoting sustainable farming practices in semi-arid regions
- Enhancing productivity and minimizing crop losses
Technology Integration in SMART-CROP
The SMART-CROP model integrates multiple advanced technologies to promote precision agriculture:
Satellite Imaging & Remote Sensing
Tracks crop health, soil moisture, and weather patterns to help farmers adapt quickly.
AI/ML Analytics
Predicts pest and disease outbreaks while offering early warnings for climate anomalies.
Mobile Dashboards
Farmers get real-time updates and recommendations in local languages for ease of use.
Data-Driven Decision Making
Helps determine optimal sowing periods, fertilizer usage, and irrigation schedules — reducing costs and increasing yield.
This makes smart farming accessible even to small and marginal farmers, without the need for costly tools.
Farmer Impact
The SMART-CROP Project is projected to:
- Boost crop yields by 20–30%
- Cut down input costs with smarter resource management
- Enhance climate resilience in vulnerable zones
- Empower farmers through knowledge sharing and digital tools
- Establish a scalable model for other Indian states
By integrating data, AI, and farmer-centric design, SMART-CROP supports India’s mission for climate-smart agriculture and digital transformation in farming.
SBI Foundation’s LEAP Programme
The project operates under the LEAP – Livelihood and Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme by SBI Foundation, which aims to:
- Fund innovative rural livelihood solutions
- Promote entrepreneurship in agriculture
- Support sustainable and inclusive community development
SMART-CROP is one of LEAP’s flagship projects, showcasing how CSR-led innovation can drive rural transformation.
Strategic Partnerships
The strength of the SMART-CROP project lies in its collaborative model:
- ICRISAT – Provides agritech research and scientific expertise
- UAS Raichur – Offers field-level execution and farmer training
- Agribridge – Delivers the digital infrastructure and analytics support
- SBI Foundation – Funds, monitors, and scales the initiative
This multi-stakeholder approach ensures that farmers receive end-to-end support — from data generation to actionable insights.
🔗 Google Resource References
To add credibility and SEO strength, here are relevant backlinks:
- 🌐 SBI Foundation – Official Website
- 🌾 ICRISAT SMART-CROP Press Release
- 💼 LEAP Programme Details
- 💡 Agribridge Solutions
- 🎓 University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur
- 🤖 AI in Agriculture – Explained
(All backlinks are contextually relevant and authoritative for better Google indexing.)
Future Outlook
The SMART-CROP project serves as a scalable model for future agricultural transformation across India.
By integrating AI, satellite data, and localized farmer support, it demonstrates how technology can address challenges like climate change, soil degradation, and water scarcity.
If the pilot succeeds, it can be replicated nationwide, creating a network of climate-resilient and digitally empowered farmers.
Final Thoughts
As India advances toward tech-driven agriculture, initiatives like SMART-CROP prove how innovation and collaboration can uplift rural livelihoods.
By merging AI technology, research expertise, and corporate social responsibility, the SBI Foundation and ICRISAT are helping build a sustainable, inclusive, and smarter farming future for India.
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