The Center of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Agriculture (CAIML) will be established by the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (SKUAST-K). The University Council, chaired by LG Manoj Sinha, gave its approval to the proposal.
The Division of Agro-Meteorology at FOH, Shalimar, as well as the Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (SKIIE) Center will be established by the leading university at the same location.
These cutting-edge facilities are intended to enhance the vital infrastructure that the institution needs in the rapidly evolving field of technology. These choices are anticipated to have a major impact on SKUAST-K’s agricultural education and research program and open the door for the agricultural industry to adopt cutting-edge technologies.
To take advantage of the applications of Agri-4.0 technologies (Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, IoT, and automation), SKUAST-K is assembling an elite group of researchers and engineers. The center will do research in the areas of artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, and other relevant subjects in addition to providing cutting-edge courses. Management training on AI&ML applications has already begun at SKUAST-K’s Division of Agricultural Economics and Management. Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing, Image Processing, Agriculture/Weather Data Modeling and Analysis, Data Optimization, and Neural Networks are among the areas in which the center is anticipated to create techniques and models. Additionally, the center will concentrate on creating intelligent farming systems and predictive analytics.
The university is already seeking applicants with a PhD in the pertinent discipline and experience in core AI/ML competencies, such as natural language processing, deep learning, reinforcement learning, probabilistic models, optimization, learning theory, computing, and the creation of intelligent systems, as well as predictive analytics in agriculture.
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) for research and development (R&D) and capacity building in artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data analytics, automation, and robotics was signed by SKUAST-K and the Centre of Development for Advanced Computing (CDAC), Kolkata, as early as March 2023. All new-age courses will be offered, and they will collaborate on joint research projects in the fields of automation, sensor technology, robotics, drone technology, big data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, Internet of Things, and other information and communication sciences.
According to an official spokesman, the Lieutenant Governor expressed gratitude for SKUAST-Kashmir’s noteworthy contribution to the remarkable expansion of the agriculture and related sectors in Jammu and Kashmir. He continued, “Our agricultural universities’ innovative initiatives and holistic approach are contributing to a knowledge-based, technology-driven, and sustainable agri-economy.”
The entire future road map for establishing SKUAST-Kashmir as the premier center for agricultural education, innovations, entrepreneurship, leadership, and research was deliberated at the conference. Additionally, the goal was to establish SKUAST as the home of many centers of excellence in the agricultural and related sectors.
The Lieutenant Governor placed a strong emphasis on bringing lab-based research and innovation to the field to boost farmer production. He also gave the pupils instructions to perform a thorough study on yield gaps and to enroll in brief skill-training programs.
In addition to defining the university’s goals and mandates in line with national priorities, the meeting also discussed reforms aimed at encouraging startups and entrepreneurship as well as opening up new frontiers for the advancement of clever and intelligent farming techniques.
The Council approved several items on the agenda, including the creation of the Division of Agro-Meteorology at FOH, Shalimar, the SKUAST-K Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (SKIIE) Center, and the Center of Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning in Agriculture (CAIML).
“The Incubation Center at SkUAST, known as SKIIE, recently opened.” One SKUAST-K insider stated, “This center will see startups, incubate them, fund them, and let these innovators compete with a PoC.” “Agrometeorology, which will use satellite data to monitor the weather and soil health using AI, is being added to FoH.”
