Karnataka Farmers Advocate for AI in Sugarcane Cultivation, Highlight Payment Delays
Belagavi: In a significant development for agricultural innovation, the Karnataka State Sugarcane Growers Association has called upon the government to embrace an artificial intelligence-based model for sugarcane farming, drawing inspiration from successful practices in neighboring Maharashtra. Association president Kuruburu Shantakumar made this appeal during a media briefing on Friday, emphasizing the potential for enhanced productivity and cost efficiency.
AI Adoption and Yield Improvements
Shantakumar highlighted that over 5,000 farmers in Maharashtra are already utilizing AI technologies in sugarcane cultivation, resulting in nearly 50% higher yields per acre. He detailed that a delegation of 16 farmers from the Karnataka Farmers' Association recently undertook a two-day study visit to the Baramati Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Maharashtra to observe these advancements firsthand.
According to Shantakumar, AI technology provides critical support to farmers by analyzing soil types and properties, rainfall patterns, seed quality, weather forecasts, crop health monitoring, and disease identification and diagnosis. This comprehensive approach not only improves crop growth but also significantly reduces cultivation costs, making farming more sustainable and profitable.
Financial Aspects and Subsidies
Explaining the financial implications, Shantakumar noted that adopting AI-based farming requires an investment of approximately Rs 25,000 per hectare. In Maharashtra, the state government offers a subsidy of Rs 18,000, with sugar factories contributing the remaining Rs 7,000, thereby making the technology more accessible to farmers. He urged Karnataka to consider similar support mechanisms to facilitate widespread adoption.
Pending Arrears and Payment Concerns
Shifting focus to financial grievances, Shantakumar raised serious concerns over unpaid dues to farmers. During the 2025–26 season, 80 sugar factories in Karnataka crushed 5.8 crore quintals of sugarcane, yet outstanding arrears amount to over Rs 3,500 crore. He alleged that more than 50 factories have failed to clear these payments and called for strict action from deputy commissioners, including the seizure of sugar stocks if necessary, to ensure farmers receive their rightful earnings.
Promotion of Ethanol Production
In addition to AI adoption, Shantakumar emphasized the need to promote ethanol production from sugarcane, paddy, and corn. He stated that this initiative would boost farmers' incomes, address cooking fuel shortages, reduce environmental impact, and conserve foreign exchange. He called on the central government to take immediate steps in this direction to support agricultural sustainability and economic growth.
The media briefing was attended by several farmers, including Mahesh Belagankar, Ramesh Hiremath, SB Sidnal, NH Devakumar, Hattalli Devaraj, Parashuram Yattinagudda, Baradanapur Nagaraj, Bapu Gouda Patil, Veeranna Gouda, and Shivappa Bhairoji, underscoring collective support for these demands.
