Kochi: The AgriNext Summit 2026 concluded in Kochi with a strong message that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to significantly increase employment opportunities in agriculture, unlike other sectors where AI has raised concerns about job losses.
The AgriNext Summit 2026 emphasized technology-driven growth, inclusive innovation, and stronger collaboration between startups and farmers.
The AgriNext Summit 2026 was jointly organized under the State Government’s KERA Project by the Kerala Startup Mission, the Department of Agriculture, and the World Bank.
The event was hosted at the Kerala Startup Mission campus in Kalamassery and brought together policymakers, investors, startups, and farmers on a common platform.
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50 Agreements Signed Between Startups and FPOs
A major outcome of the AgriNext Summit 2026 was the signing of 50 agreements between startups and various Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) that participated in the event.
The agreements are expected to accelerate the adoption of innovative agri-tech solutions at the grassroots level and strengthen collaboration between technology providers and farming communities.
Technology Adoption to Attract Investment
Inaugurating the AgriNext Summit 2026, Kerala Project Director and Principal Secretary Dr. B. Ashok stated that adopting modern technology would attract greater investment into agriculture and promote the cultivation of diversified crops.
He pointed out that agriculture can become a profitable venture if policies are updated in line with changing times and modern technologies are effectively integrated.
He emphasized that farmers must be convinced of the benefits of technology adoption. Robotics, drones, and IoT technologies are already widely used in plantation sectors and large-scale farming.
However, he stressed the importance of developing technologies that are accessible and affordable for small-scale farmers as well.
An allocation of ₹100 crore will be implemented through the KERA Project for drip irrigation systems. The AgriNext Summit 2026 noted that the transformative impact AI has delivered in other sectors is expected to reach agriculture in the near future, and farmers must be prepared to adapt to these changes.
Dr. Ashok further observed that Kerala’s startup ecosystem has achieved unparalleled progress in agricultural technology and highlighted that the Startup Mission is the most suitable platform to implement agri-tech initiatives under the KERA Project.
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Role of Technology in Future Agriculture
State IT Special Secretary Seeram Sambasiva Rao addressed the AgriNext Summit 2026 online on the topic “The Role of Technology in the Agriculture of the Future.”
He said the initiative would help develop practical, future-oriented, technology-driven solutions to address challenges in agriculture.
He also noted that Kerala’s startup ecosystem is well-equipped to resolve issues faced by small and medium-scale farmers. The AgriNext Summit 2026 highlighted how digital innovation, AI tools, and smart farming practices can drive productivity and sustainability.
AI Expected to Boost Employment in Agriculture
Presenting the theme of the AgriNext Summit 2026, KSUM CEO Anoop Ambika stated that while AI has triggered concerns about job losses in other sectors, it is expected to significantly boost employment in agriculture.
He explained that such interactive summits are organized to directly understand the practical problems faced by ordinary farmers. These initiatives aim to protect the agricultural sector while promoting innovative technologies.
The AgriNext Summit 2026 reinforced the idea that AI adoption in agriculture would create new job roles, improve efficiency, and enhance farmer incomes.
Global Insights and Incubation Support
World Bank representative Asebe Fisseha Mekonnen said global experiences demonstrate that incubation plays a significant role in the success of agri-tech startups.
She added that the KERA Project would serve as a bridge between farmers and startups, strengthening innovation ecosystems.
The AgriNext Summit 2026 was held under the theme “Technology to the Fields, Transformation to the Harvest.” Around 1,000 farmers and 252 selected agri-startups participated in the summit. Agriculture department officials, policymakers, and investors were also present. The event featured panel discussions and experience-sharing sessions by farmers and startup entrepreneurs.
With 50 agreements signed and strong participation across the ecosystem, the AgriNext Summit 2026 underscored the growing role of AI and technology in shaping the future of agriculture.
