With AI, Maharashtra Can Lead the World in Foodgrain Exports – Debjani Ghosh

Guidance on ‘Frontier Technologies for a Developed Maharashtra’ during Tech Wari – Maha Technology Training Week

Mumbai : Maharashtra has the potential to become a global leader in foodgrain production and exports with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI), said Debjani Ghosh, Fellow at NITI Aayog and former President of NASSCOM.

She was addressing a session on “Frontier Technologies for a Developed Maharashtra” as part of the ‘Tech Wari – Maha Technology Training Week’ held at the Mantralaya. Resident Commissioner of Maharashtra Sadan, R. Vimala, was also present. The event witnessed a large turnout of officers and staff from various government departments.

Ghosh stated, “The world is currently facing a foodgrain shortage crisis. Maharashtra is well-equipped with experts, modern agricultural tools, skilled manpower, and the ability to adopt new technologies. Through proper planning and effective implementation, the state can emerge as a front-runner in global foodgrain exports. By using advanced technologies, improved seeds, drones, and irrigation systems, agricultural productivity can be significantly enhanced.”

She emphasized that the decade from 2020 to 2030 will be the era of Artificial Intelligence. Sectors like agriculture, healthcare, energy, and manufacturing can experience fundamental transformations through the use of AI. She further explained that biotech is the convergence of biology and AI, essentially a way to recreate life. With institutions like IIT Bombay, a robust startup ecosystem, industrial base, digital economy, green energy initiatives, and progressive policies, Maharashtra can contribute significantly to the country’s GDP, she added.

R. Vimala, in her remarks, stressed that it is not enough to rely solely on AI. Science, AI, and other advanced technologies must be used strategically to devise and implement robust plans in the industrial and agricultural sectors. She highlighted that effective execution is key to realizing these technological advancements.