A Study on Challenges and Solutions in the Uptake of Agricultural Technology Startups Services in Karnataka

In congruence with overarching trend of digitalization sweeping across India, agricultural sector is currently experiencing remarkable advancements propelled by innovative technological solutions introduced by emerging startups in agritech domain. The state of Karnataka is swiftly solidifying its position as preeminent leader in agritech industry attracting heightened interest from venture capital investors in recent times and emerging as dominant recipient of these investments garnering substantial 52% share followed by Maharashtra at 18% and Tamil Nadu at 9.2%. The principal aim of this research endeavor is to scrutinize socioeconomic impediments hindering adoption of AgriTech within rural precincts of Karnataka specifically in districts of Rural Bangalore (Doddabalapura and Nelmangala) and Davanagere (Shiramagondonahalli). The study seeks to gauge perceptions of farmers regarding potential solutions aimed at fostering greater adoption of AgriTech in these aforementioned regions. The study employed descriptive analysis by utilizing data obtained from judiciously selected sample of 120 farmers dichotomized into those who had availed themselves of AgriTech services and those who had not as provided by AgriTech firms. Empirical findings illuminate formidable impact of socioeconomic factors encompassing economic standing, land ownership classification and educational attainment in shaping farmers’ receptivity toward AgriTech utilization. The study unearthed valuable insights pertaining to propositions put forth by farmers to enhance adoption of AgriTech practices among their peers. The study furnishes valuable elucidations concerning barriers impeding adoption of AgriTech and offers viable solutions to invigorate increased participation among farmers in realm of AgriTech proffering pertinent recommendations to stakeholders such as AgriTech startup executives, researchers and policymakers urging them to meticulously assess local socioeconomic dynamics and tailor AgriTech services in accordance with discerned needs and preferences of farming community.