How big data can boost agricultural growth

In agriculture, #big_data is often viewed as a combination of technology and analytics that can collect and compile a novel data and process it in a more useful and timely way to assist decision making.

#Data_mining is the computing process of discovering patterns in large data sets involving methods at the intersection of #artificial_intelligence, #machine_learning statistics and database system.

Precision agriculture’s main objective is to ensure profitability, efficiency, and sustainability using the #big_data gathered to guide both immediate and future decision-making. This could cover everything — from when it is best to apply fertilizers, chemical and seeds, to from where in the field it is best to apply a rate.

According to agriculture funders, the big data practice comprises capturing relevant data from a huge number of sources, collecting it today and translating it into actionable information to improve business processes and solve problems at scale and speed.

Advantages of data analysis in agriculture

Data help debt-laden farmers, insurance agencies, loan banks, seed companies, machine industry and every big and small player. Data analysis not only creates greater awareness and more accurate knowledge, but it can also plug the lacunae in the supply and marketing chain of the industry.

Information is power and the industry can now have access to it for more informed decision making. These are the ways in which data analysis can help:

Development of new seed traits - Access to the plant genome with new ways to measure, map and drive information betters products.

Precision farming - Big data takes advantage of the information derived through precision farming in aggregate over many farms. The resulting analytics, insights and better decisions can then be deployed through precision farming techniques

Food tracking - Use of sensors and analytics to prevent spoilage and food-borne illnesses

Effect on supply chains - Seismic shifts in the supply chain of seed, crop inputs, and food driven by the democratization of technology and information

The big data revolution is in its early days and most of the potential for value creation is still unclaimed. But it has set the industry on a path of rapid change and new discoveries. Stakeholders committed to innovation will likely be the first to reap rewards. If the farmers would have been concerned about the infirmities in terms of data-based farming, production could be increased.