SRINAGAR: The Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (SKUAST-K) will establish of the Centre of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Agriculture (CAIML). The proposal was approved by the University Council that met under the chairmanship of LG Manoj Sinha.
The premier varsity will also establish the Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (SKIIE) Centre, and the Division of Agro-Meteorology at FOH, Shalimar.
These futuristic centres are aimed at improving the crucial infrastructure that the university requires in the fast-changing world of technology. These decisions are expected to significantly contribute to the advancement of agricultural education and research at SKUAST-K and pave the way for the integration of cutting-edge technologies in the agricultural sector.
SKUAST-K is building a world-class team of researchers and engineers to leverage the applications of Agri-4.0 technologies (Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, IoT, and automation). The centre will offer new-age courses and undertake research in Artificial Intelligence, Machine learning, Deep learning, and other related fields. The Division of Agricultural Economics and Management at SKUAST-K has already started management training on applications of AI&ML. The centre is expected to develop methods/models in Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing, Image Processing, and Agriculture/weather data modelling and analysis, data optimization, and Neural Networks. The centre will also focus on developing intelligent systems and predictive analytics in farming
Already, the university is looking for candidates with a PhD in the relevant field and experience in core competencies in AI/ML like deep learning, reinforcement learning, natural language processing, probabilistic models, optimisation, and learning theory, computing, and development of intelligent systems, and predictive analytics in farming.
As early as March 2023, SKUAST-K has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Centre of Development for Advanced Computing (CDAC), Kolkata for R&D and capacity building in artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data analytics, automation and robotics. They have agreed to offer all new-age courses and undertake research in Artificial Intelligence, Machine learning, Deep learning, Big Data analytics, IoT, Automation, Sensor Technology, Robotics, Drone-Technology, and other Information and Communication Sciences jointly.
The Lt Governor, according to an official spokesman commended the significant contribution of SKUAST-Kashmir in the extraordinary growth journey of the Agriculture and Allied sector in Jammu and Kashmir. The innovation-led initiatives and holistic approach of our Agricultural Universities are contributing in knowledge-based, Technology-driven and sustainable Agri-economy, he added.
The meeting discussed the comprehensive future road map on developing SKUAST-Kashmir as the leading institution for agricultural education, innovations, entrepreneurship, leadership and research, and make SKUAST a home to several centres of excellence in agriculture & allied sector.
The Lt Governor emphasised on taking the research and innovation from Lab to the Field to increase farmers’ productivity. He further instructed for short skill training courses for the students and also to conduct a detailed study on yield gaps.
The meeting also deliberated on the reforms to promote start-ups and entrepreneurship, opening up new frontier areas to drive smart and intelligent farming practices, besides resetting of goals and mandates of the University in tune with National Goals and Priorities.
The Council gave in-principle approvals to various agenda points presented during the meeting including the setting up of the Centre of Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning in Agriculture (CAIML); SKUAST-K Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (SKIIE)Centre and to establishment of the Division of Agro-Meteorology at FOH, Shalimar.
“SKIIE is the Incubation centre that just started in SkUAST. This centre will see startups, incubate them, fund them let these innovators compete with a PoC,” one SKUAST-K insider said. “We are adding Agrometeorology at FoH, which will use satellite data to monitor the weather and soil health using the AI.”
