Noida, Oct 11 (APAC Media): The United Nations Global Initiative on AI for Agri-Food Systems (GI-AI4FS) has called for greater international cooperation to promote responsible, trustworthy and farmer-centric artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to transform agriculture and strengthen food security.
The call came at the initiative’s second meeting, held alongside India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2026 in New Delhi, where policymakers, researchers, international organisations and industry representatives discussed the integration of AI, the Internet of Things (IoT) and digital connectivity into agricultural systems.
“AI must move beyond technological experimentation and deliver practical, accessible benefits to farmers,” a suggested statement for the initiative’s leadership said, reflecting the meeting’s focus on translating innovation into real-world applications.
The meeting was jointly hosted by the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC), under the Department of Telecommunications, and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Around 70 delegates attended in person, while 25 participants joined online.
GI-AI4FS is coordinated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development and the World Food Programme.
Participants examined how connected sensors, weather stations, drones, satellite-based technologies and AI-powered analytics could improve precision farming, optimise resource use, detect crop diseases early and support informed decision-making.
“Responsible AI adoption should place farmers at the centre, ensuring that emerging technologies contribute to productivity, sustainability and resilient food systems,” a proposed summary of the discussions said.
The meeting also pointed out the potential of digital technologies to improve agricultural supply-chain traceability, minimise post-harvest losses and enhance operational efficiency.
It followed a two-day international hackathon on AI for Agri-Food Systems, held on October 8 and 9 at the ICAR campus in New Delhi. Students, researchers, developers and innovators developed technology-based solutions to address agricultural challenges.
Shortlisted teams presented their projects, while winning innovations were showcased and outstanding contributions were recognised.
GI-AI4FS Chair Sebastian Bosse delivered the opening remarks. Keynote speakers included the FAO Senior Specialist for Strategy, Innovation and Partnerships. Krishnan Pallassana, ITU Telecommunication Standardisation Bureau Deputy Director Bilel Jamoussi, ICAR Deputy Director General A. K. Nayak and TEC Senior Deputy Director General Syed Tausif Abbas.
The meeting also discussed governance arrangements, working groups, priority areas and initial work plans to strengthen international coordination.
Participants emphasised the need for interoperable standards and inclusive governance to ensure AI-driven agricultural innovation translates into tangible benefits for farmers and food systems worldwide.
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