Climate Smart Agri Newsletter by ASQI
Starting December 1st, ASQI has partnered with over 5,000 sugarcane farmers in Chandgad taluka, Kolhapur, Maharashtra, with the goal of increasing their per-acre yield from 25-30 MT to 40-50 MT. The plan focuses on applying proven best practices from agricultural research institutes, along with modern technology, to boost productivity and sustainability.The initiative will focus on soil health, water management, and crop variety improvements. ASQI will work closely with farmers to implement advanced irrigation systems and introduce high-yielding, disease-resistant sugarcane varieties. Precision farming techniques, including drones and data analytics, will help monitor crops and optimize resource use. Additionally, farmers will receive regular training on sustainable practices, pest control, and modern farming methods.
Key strategies include improved soil and irrigation management, introducing high-yielding and disease-resistant sugarcane varieties, eco-friendly pest control, and precision agriculture using drones and data analytics. ASQI will also provide training, access to credit, and market linkages to ensure higher profitability for farmers, aiming for long-term growth and enhanced farm sustainability. With this comprehensive approach, ASQI aims to transform sugarcane farming in the region, benefiting both farmers and the local economy.
The Promise of Renewable Energy - payback periods are now less than 2 years
As we researched options for a captive solar power plant for our client last month, we were impressed by the significant advancements in solar panel technology. The costs have drastically reduced, while the efficiency of solar panels has improved, making them an increasingly viable option for businesses looking to reduce their energy costs. With the right setup, a business can recover its investment in just a couple of years through substantial savings on electricity bills.These improvements in solar technology have made it easier for companies to make the switch to renewable energy, contributing to both financial savings and sustainability goals. In addition to the cost benefits, businesses investing in captive solar power plants are also insulating themselves from volatile electricity prices and reducing their carbon footprint.As the solar industry innovates, more opportunities will emerge for businesses to adopt clean, cost-effective energy solutions.
Adopting solar power not only provides financial savings but also supports global sustainability trends. With government incentives and tax breaks, businesses can further reduce their investment costs. The long-term benefits of lower energy costs, greater energy independence, and a reduced carbon footprint make captive solar power a smart, future-proof investment.
Our Biochar white paper is out
We have been researching biochar for a while. It is the closest thing to a silver bullet in the context of climate-smart agriculture. Here’s a substance that is made using crop residue, which sequesters atmospheric carbon for centuries and when added to soil, improves its nutrient retention capacity. Check out the white paper here: https://asqi.in/biochar/
Gen-AI for making a Crop Doctor
We used generative artificial intelligence for analysing pictures of crop leaves – to see if we can detect diseases through visual processing. We could, and with 90%+ efficiency!
All the farmer needs to do is to click a close-up picture of the leaves of his/her crop and upload to our application FarmApp, and in a few seconds, they get the result – healthy crop or name of disease and what to do about it. Demo video here: https://asqi.in/crop-doctor/
