Agriculture remains the backbone of India's economy, employing over half the population and contributing 16% to the GDP. Recognizing the potential for digital transformation in this vital sector, the Government of India has championed innovation through initiatives like FASAL (Fostering Agritech Startups and Leveraging Innovation) — a Centre of Excellence established by STPI at Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth in Akola, Maharashtra.
Spread across 10,000 sq. ft., FASAL provides world-class labs for digital farming, IoT-based agriculture, predictive analytics, and hydroponic vertical farming. Its collaborative model brings together institutions like ICAR-IARI, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, and private tech firms to nurture early-stage startups with funding, mentorship, prototyping support, and investor access.
So far, FASAL has incubated 28 startups, produced 44 prototypes and 52 market-ready products, and enabled over ₹8.22 crore in funding, generating a combined revenue of ₹10.86 crore. Innovations emerging from FASAL include:
Niyo Farmtech's solar sprayers designed for women farmers.
DigiCrop's AI-driven irrigation system, which offers real-time farm insights.
OMPRI Buildcon's GRAMePAY, promoting digital payments in rural areas.
AgroSonic's GoatMate platform for livestock health management.
AI-GENIX's eco-friendly pest control using insect communication and AI.
According to EY, India's agritech sector holds a $24 billion opportunity, yet remains largely untapped.
FASAL aims to bridge this gap by connecting startups with FPOs, state agencies, and rural communities, driving innovation, inclusion, and sustainability.
Source: www.millenniumpost.in
