Fri May 16 05:38:26 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, written from a potential Indian perspective:
**The Hindu: UAS Bengaluru Convocation Highlights Need for Tech in Agriculture Amidst Soil Degradation Crisis**
**Bengaluru, May 16, 2025:** The 59th convocation of the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS)-Bangalore, held on Thursday, underscored the urgent need for technological advancements in Indian agriculture to combat widespread soil degradation and address the challenges of feeding a growing population. A total of 1,271 students received degrees, with 63 students earning over 150 gold medals.
U.S. Awasthi, Managing Director of IFFCO, delivered a stark warning about the state of India’s soil, stating that over 90% of soil across 27 states is deficient in nitrogen, and 85% lacks sufficient organic carbon. He emphasized that the over-reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides has led to toxic residue accumulation, reduced soil fertility, and negatively impacted export potential due to stringent international safety standards.
“Healthy soil, which once teemed with life, is now losing its fertility, productivity, and resilience” he added in his statement.
Awasthi advocated for the adoption of precision farming techniques, highlighting the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in analyzing drone imagery to detect plant stress, and the use of sensors to monitor soil conditions. “We need smarter ways to feed our world without harming the ecosystem,” he said, emphasizing the potential of AI to suggest better solutions for farmers.
Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot, also Chancellor of the University, echoed these concerns, pointing to global warming, water crises, and the financial struggles of farmers as key challenges. He stressed the importance of agricultural graduates, scientists, innovators, and policymakers in navigating these issues and promoting technological innovation in the agricultural sector, including vertical farming techniques.
Agriculture Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy highlighted the Karnataka state government’s commitment to supporting integrated farming, food parks, and AI-based digital farming, as well as increased subsidies for micro-irrigation and the utilization of agricultural waste for soil health enhancement. These initiatives, funded in the recent state budget, aim to help farmers and promote soil health.
The convocation served as a rallying cry for a new era of sustainable and technologically advanced agriculture in India, one that prioritizes soil health, reduces reliance on harmful chemicals, and leverages innovation to ensure food security and a prosperous future for Indian farmers.
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