The India-Australia Smart Farm Network was formally launched at the Professor Jayashankar Telangana Agricultural University on Thursday, marking a significant step toward advancing climate-smart and digital agriculture.
The initiative was organised by the Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad in collaboration with Charles Sturt University, Bengaluru Science and Technology Cluster, and CoE-FPO. The network aims to strengthen bilateral collaboration in precision farming, sustainable agricultural systems, and innovation-driven practices.
It will serve as a platform for joint research, pilot projects, startup engagement, and knowledge exchange between institutions from both India and Australia. The launch event witnessed participation from government agencies, universities, industry leaders, and innovation ecosystem partners. Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green emphasised the importance of partnerships in agriculture and sustainability to support farmers and enhance climate resilience.
PJTAU Vice Chancellor Aldas Janaiah highlighted that the initiative would foster collaboration among academia and technology developers to ensure the adoption of innovations.
He envisioned that by 2047, India could achieve unmanned agriculture through smart farming technologies. Vishal from the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser underlined the role of international collaborations in addressing real-world agricultural challenges.
Michael Friend from CSU stressed the need for global partnerships to advance sustainable farming. RICH CEO Rashmi Pimpale noted that the network would build stronger linkages between research institutions and industry to develop scalable solutions for farmers.
Economist Krishna Reddy provided a detailed analysis of agricultural innovation principles, explaining how minor adjustments could collectively strengthen national economic resilience.
The event saw participation from PJTAU Registrar Vidyasagar, Director of Research Balaram, and Australian Consulate General representative Hilary McGeachy. Other attendees included BeST CEO Anantha Raman, NABARD Deputy Director General Deepthy Sunil, and Telangana Horticulture Joint Director Rama Laxmi.
The network is expected to drive collaborative innovation and promote smart technologies, positioning the agricultural sector for a sustainable future.
By integrating cross-border expertise, the initiative seeks to solve pressing environmental issues while ensuring food security through digital transformation and high-tech agricultural practices.