Iran is embracing Artificial Intelligence as the country looks to modernise and streamline its agricultural practices, but multiple challenges remain, writes Alireza Emami, CEO of Tehran-based Zarrin Group
An agricultural revolution is on the verge of reality due to Artificial Intelligence’s aid, acting as a catalyst for both sustainability and growth. Iran’s economy is highly dependent on agriculture and the use of AI in this field has shown impressive outcomes.
Advancements include utilising satellite data centres for accurate weather forecasting, employing robotic systems for efficient crop harvesting, and deploying AI-powered machinery for continuous crop monitoring.
Since Iranian farmers face problems in areas like water scarcity and unsuitable soil, the development of these technologies for the sake of overcoming such obstacles is a necessity.
One innovative AI system for boosting a land’s productivity is Dana Keshavarz. This groundbreaking system caters to the specific needs of farmers by addressing their technical queries and providing expert recommendations for optimising resource utilisation and maximising crop yield.
Additionally, it leverages data analytics from diverse sources to determine the most suitable planting and harvesting times, paving the way for precise agricultural practices.
Despite these advancements, Iranian agriculture lags behind, but it possesses potential for further progress.
According to reports, traditional production norms largely remain in use in Iran, with modern technologies struggling with promotion and adoption.
While industrialised countries are using assets like remote assessment, which has revolutionised land management, many Iranian farmers are unaware of the Internet, sensors, GPS systems and AI.
There is potential in Iran for the use of AI models to identify early signs of plant pest and disease infestation. But despite the merits of this technology, multiple factors prevent its widespread use in Iran’s agricultural scene. These include:
- Technical challenges: there is a lack of adequate infrastructure for backing AI technologies in remote areas, including high-speed internet connection and advanced data analysis platforms.
- Societal and economic challenges: high initial investment costs, a lack of farmer awareness and a shortage of trained professionals are significant obstacles.
- Governmental rules and policies: although Iran’s government is keen on agricultural upgrades, comprehensive laws and incentives are necessary to accelerate AI integration.
According to research, with population growth and the subsequent need for food production to increase by 50 per cent by 2050, full exploitation of the benefits of AI in agriculture will help to overcome existing obstacles and increase investment, and government support for policies in this area is necessary.
Continuous research and development in this field leads to autonomous agricultural equipment, boosted crop monitoring systems and more enhanced tools for predictive analysis.
Increased funding for farming on drylands and AI startups can be a catalyst for innovation. International cooperation and public-private partnerships can contribute immensely to the advancement of its applications in agriculture.
Meanwhile, associations between universities, research centres and agricultural sectors can aid in developing new solutions tailored to the specific needs of Iranian farmers.
As a result, the optimal use of this emerging technology can support Iran’s agricultural sector in achieving food security, economic growth, environmental protection and greater economic independence.
