Digital Agriculture and Innovation Journal

The Role of AI in Enhancing Agricultural Labor Efficiency: Perspectives from HR Managers in Agri-Tech Firms

2025-02-22T09:04:02+00:00

Artificial intelligence (AI) 's rapid adoption in agriculture transforms labor efficiency, especially in agri-tech firms. This study explores the role of AI in enhancing labor productivity from the perspectives of human resource (HR) managers in the sector. The primary objective is to understand how AI technologies influence labor allocation, management practices, and workforce adaptation. Utilizing a qualitative research methodology, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with HR managers in agri-tech firms. Thematic analysis was applied to interpret the data, highlighting key trends in AI implementation. Results show that AI significantly reduces manual labor in repetitive tasks like crop monitoring and irrigation, allowing firms to reallocate human resources to higher-value roles. However, challenges such as employee resistance, skill gaps, and high implementation costs were also reported. HR strategies, including phased AI implementation and extensive training programs, have effectively managed workforce transitions. The study concludes that AI is vital for improving labor efficiency in agriculture, but its full potential requires careful management of human resources to mitigate resistance and enhance technical proficiency. These findings offer practical implications for HR managers and policymakers aiming to integrate AI sustainably into agricultural labor practices

Augmented Reality (AR) for Soil Health Assessment: A Visual Guide for Farmers in Resource-Limited Agricultural Zones

2025-02-22T09:07:13+00:00

The rapid advancement of digital technologies presents a significant opportunity for improving agricultural practices, particularly in resource-limited zones. Augmented Reality (AR) offers farmers an innovative real-time soil health assessment solution, enabling them to make informed decisions about irrigation, fertilization, and crop management. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an AR-based soil health assessment tool tailored for smallholder farmers. A qualitative research approach was employed, using in-depth interviews and field observations with 20 farmers from rural agricultural areas. The tool provided real-time data on critical soil parameters, including moisture, nutrient levels, and pH balance. Results indicate that the AR tool significantly improved farmers’ ability to manage soil health, leading to more efficient water usage and optimized fertilizer application. However, challenges such as internet connectivity and digital literacy barriers were observed. Overall, the tool was found to be a valuable asset in promoting sustainable farming practices in low-resource areas. Future research should explore offline functionalities and broader applications of AR technology in agriculture.

Narratives of Change: How Farmers Perceive the Impact of Digital Tools on Traditional Practices

2025-02-22T09:10:28+00:00

The adoption of digital tools in agriculture has brought significant changes, especially among traditional farmers who often rely on established practices. While digital innovations such as mobile applications, precision farming, and data analytics promise enhanced productivity and sustainability, their acceptance varies widely among farmers. This study aims to explore traditional farmers' perceptions of digital tools, focusing on factors influencing adoption, challenges in integration, and the potential benefits. A qualitative research approach was employed, using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with a purposively selected sample of traditional farmers. Data were analyzed thematically to capture insights into attitudes, barriers, and the socio-cultural impact of digital tools on traditional practices. Findings reveal that farmers’ perceptions range from skepticism to conditional acceptance, often influenced by age, digital literacy, and cultural attachment. Key challenges include language barriers, technical complexity, and costs, with younger farmers demonstrating greater openness to adopting digital solutions. Additionally, results suggest that consistent training and support are critical for enhancing adoption rates, enabling farmers to balance traditional practices with modern tools. These insights provide practical implications for policymakers and technology developers, underscoring the need for localized training and adaptable digital solutions. This research emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing traditional farmers' perspectives in promoting sustainable agricultural transformation.

AI-Enabled Market Access: Farmers’ Perspectives on Digital Platforms and Their Impact on Agricultural Trade in Remote Areas

2025-02-22T09:12:32+00:00

The rapid expansion of digital platforms has created new opportunities for farmers in remote areas to access larger markets, yet significant challenges remain. This study investigates the accessibility, economic implications, and trust issues associated with digital platform adoption among farmers in rural regions. The research aims to explore how these platforms impact agricultural trade by addressing key factors influencing usability, financial viability, and security concerns. A qualitative approach was employed, focusing on in-depth interviews and focus groups with small-scale farmers who engage in digital transactions. Findings indicate that while digital platforms improve pricing transparency and provide market opportunities, challenges such as high transaction fees, logistics costs, and limited digital literacy inhibit their full potential. Trust issues, including data security and payment reliability, further affect adoption rates, underscoring the importance of user-centered design and affordable access models. Practical implications suggest the need for digital literacy programs, simplified interfaces, and enhanced security features tailored to the unique needs of rural farmers. This research highlights critical areas for intervention, aiming to make digital platforms more inclusive and economically viable for the agricultural sector in remote areas.

Recruitment and Retention of Tech-Savvy Talent for AI in Agriculture: Challenges Faced by HR in Rural Agribusiness

2025-02-22T09:14:19+00:00

The integration of AI in agriculture is transforming rural agribusinesses, offering solutions for increased productivity and sustainability. However, these agribusinesses face significant challenges in recruiting and retaining AI talent due to geographical limitations, limited career growth opportunities, and perceptions of technological constraints. This study investigates the factors impacting AI talent acquisition and retention within rural agribusinesses and explores practical strategies to address these challenges. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected from HR professionals across rural agribusinesses, focusing on their experiences and strategies for managing AI-driven recruitment and retention. Findings indicate that limited candidate pools, infrastructural constraints, and perceptions of limited professional growth pose significant barriers to attracting tech-savvy talent. Effective retention strategies identified include flexible work arrangements, skill development programs, and digital engagement platforms, all of which contribute to higher job satisfaction among AI professionals in rural settings. The study concludes that rural agribusinesses can enhance their talent acquisition by emphasizing the impact of AI in sustainable agriculture and by adapting digital recruitment strategies to target tech-driven professionals seeking purpose-oriented careers. These findings provide valuable insights for HR practitioners and policymakers aiming to bridge the digital divide in agriculture through improved AI talent management.