With over 70% of India’s rural population still being dependent on agriculture for their livelihood, the need for innovation in the sector has always remained high. In this scenario, efforts have been made by Government-led initiatives like Startup India to foster the growth of an ecosystem with Agritech sector being one of the key areas. AgriTech is a term used for agricultural technology, which involves the use of technology to improve farming and agriculture across different value chains. It includes sophisticated technologies that drive the so-called 'fourth agricultural revolution,' akin to the industry 4.0 revolution, shaping the future of the sector. In India, AgriTech has continued to grow with startups using innovation and digital technologies like precision farming, quality management, production, supply- chain/market linkage, and digital traceability to name a few. 

The Agritech industry has experienced a remarkable tenfold growth in the past three years, propelled by four pivotal factors: the expanding digital reach throughout India, supply chain disruptions due to COVID, rising consumer demand for high-quality produce, and growing interest from private equity and venture capital.

Currently, there are nearly 2800[Startup India Database as on 31st December 2023] AgriTech startups recognised by Startup India. These AgriTech startups in India have been termed as the “ray of hope”, driving innovation and transforming the way agriculture is traditionally done in India. Here are some of the areas where AgriTech startups are making a difference.

Precision Farming

One of the key areas where AgriTech startups are making a significant impact is precision farming. Precision farming allows for more accurate application of resources like water, fertilisers, and pesticides, leading to increased efficiency and reduced environmental impact. This not only enhances crop yields by up to 30% but also promotes sustainable farming practices, a crucial aspect in the face of climate change.

Online Marketplaces

Many startups also focus on making farm inputs and farming equipment more affordable to farmers. They sell fertilisers, seeds, farm tools, and other inputs at online marketplaces and mobile applications. Many of these startups have developed marketplaces that analyse crop-related problems and offer specific solutions.