Mohali, May 14: The Chandigarh Group of Colleges (CGC), Landran, has launched a comprehensive agripreneurship initiative aimed at modernizing Punjab’s agricultural sector through the integration of artificial intelligence and sustainable practices. Managed by the Department of RISE and ACIC RISE, the program seeks to tackle pressing regional issues such as soil degradation and groundwater depletion by encouraging farmers to transition toward technology-enabled, high-profit agribusiness models.
The initiative commenced with a capacity-building seminar that introduced farmers to alternative crops like Dragon fruit, which requires minimal water compared to traditional staples. During the sessions, experts detailed how AI can be utilized to monitor crop health and analyze market demand, allowing farmers to achieve better price realization through digital platforms. Dr. Neha Sharma, Dean Research at CGC Landran, maintained that the goal is to create a scalable model that merges sustainability with modern tools. “By equipping farmers with the right knowledge, tools and incubation support, we are enabling them to become future-ready agripreneurs,” Sharma affirmed.
In the second phase, held at Hansali Sahib in Fatehgarh Sahib, the institution partnered with DroneTech Solutions Pvt. Ltd. to provide practical training in precision farming. Participants witnessed live demonstrations of drone-based crop surveying and specialized spraying techniques designed to optimize resource use and lower input costs. Campus Director Dr. Rajdeep Singh stated that the project reflects a commitment to bridging the gap between academic innovation and grassroots communities to support rural livelihoods.
The program is now entering its third phase, which focuses on the formal incubation of participants. By providing technical mentorship and access to specialized infrastructure, CGC Landran aims to help farmers evolve into scalable startups. Officials asserted that this shift from conventional farming to technology-driven entrepreneurship is essential for building a resilient agricultural ecosystem that can sustain future generations in Punjab.
