India has taken a historic step in agricultural innovation with the launch of the country’s first AI-powered weather forecasting program for farmers. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoAFW) has successfully delivered AI-based monsoon forecasts to 3.8 crore farmers across 13 states, helping them prepare for the Kharif season with better planning and reduced risk.
Why This Matters for Farmers
For millions of farmers, rainfall determines what to sow, when to sow, and how much to invest in cultivation. Traditional weather predictions often arrive too late or lack accuracy, leaving farmers vulnerable. With this initiative, forecasts were shared up to four weeks in advance, giving farmers a head start in decision-making.
Through the m-Kisan SMS platform, farmers received timely and easy-to-understand updates tailored to their local conditions. This enabled them to adapt to shifting monsoon patterns and make informed choices.
AI Powering the Monsoon Forecasts
Since 2022, AI has transformed global weather prediction by offering more precise, user-focused forecasts. The MoAFW tapped into this revolution, combining two world-class AI models:
- Google’s Neural GCM
- ECMWF’s Artificial Intelligence Forecasting Systems (AIFS)
Together, these models accurately predicted early rainfall patterns, including the unusual 20-day pause in the northward progression of rains this season. Updated forecasts were sent weekly until continuous rains resumed, proving the effectiveness of AI-driven predictions in real-world farming.
Voices from the Program
Dr. Pramod Kumar Meherda, Additional Secretary, MoAFW:“This program harnesses AI forecasting to empower farmers with confidence and better risk management. We will continue improving this effort in the years to come.”
Mr. Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, Joint Secretary, MoAFW:
“As climate change increases weather variability, such forecasts are essential for helping farmers adapt.”
“The value lies in centering forecasts on farmers’ needs and ensuring the information is clear and actionable.”
Collaboration for Farmer-Centric Solutions
The initiative was developed in partnership with Development Innovation Lab – India and Precision Development, ensuring that the SMS content was simple, actionable, and aligned with farmers’ realities. Nobel Laureate Professor Michael Kremer also reviewed the program during a high-level meeting at Krishi Bhavan, highlighting its global significance.
A Global First in AI for Agriculture
This is the world’s first large-scale, farmer-focused AI weather forecasting program. By blending cutting-edge AI with farmer-friendly communication, India is setting a global benchmark in climate-smart agriculture.
As climate change continues to alter rainfall patterns, such initiatives promise a more secure and sustainable future for millions of farming households.
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