Assessing the Impact of Digital Tools on Farm Productivity: IOT and AI Application in Karnataka Agricultural Sector

Abstract

The agricultural sector in Karnataka — like much of India — faces multiple structural challenges: unpredictable weather patterns, water scarcity, inefficient use of inputs, and limited access to real‑time farm data. This paper investigates the potential and early impacts of digital tools — specifically the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and Artificial Intelligence (AI) — on farm productivity and resource use in Karnataka. Through a comprehensive review of recent Indian studies and agritech deployments, combined with documented case studies, we analyse how sensor‑based soil and weather monitoring, AI‑driven decision support, and data‑guided automation influence crop yield, input efficiency (water, fertilizers, pesticides), and overall farm management. Evidence from existing deployments indicates yield increases in the order of 15–25%, substantial water savings through optimized irrigation, and reduced input wastage. Beyond agronomic benefits, digital agriculture appears to enhance sustainability, reduce environmental footprint, and improve farmer income reliability. However, significant barriers — including infrastructure constraints, digital literacy, and cost of adoption — remain. The paper concludes that while IoT+AI-driven farming holds strong promise for transforming agriculture in Karnataka, realizing its full benefits requires supportive policies, farmer training, inclusive financing, and localized adaptation of technologies.