In search of solutions from startups for the agricultural field, India’s Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, has started The Agriculture Grand Challenge. The program will be open for applications for a month from startups regarding solutions for one of 12 problem statements set up by the department.

“We met over 40 agri-tech startups in PM’s Champions of Change event in August, and wanted to explore a more meaningful engagement, where start-ups can present solutions to some of the things we
are already developing,” Additional Secretary at Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Upma
Srivastava said.

The applications will be reviewed by a selection panel through a process which could include in-person presentations. Mentorship for the program will be provided by International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Directorate of Marketing and Inspection and private incubators, Villgro and Qualcomm.

Some of the problem areas provided by the department include the development of technology to sense for nutrients in soil, technology to project prices of goods, a nationwide network to link farmers with food processors and cold storage. The winner of the program will work under a supporting company to develop within the field.

(Picture courtesy: Farms.com)