Management Information System

‘Emerging Technologies in Management’

A Report

submitted in partial fulfillment of the

Requirements for Award of the Degree of

Bachelor of Business Administration, 3rd year

by

Abaan Khan

M22BBAU0099

Section G

under the supervision of

Prof. ShivShankar Kumar Yadav

School Of Management

Bennett University

Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India

10th November 2024

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 Table of Contents

S.NO CONTENT PAGE NO.

1. Industry and Executive Summary 3

2. - Web 1.0 4-5

- Web 2.0 6-7

- Web3.0 8-9

- AI 10-11

- Social Media 11-13

3. ‘Defining The future’ 14

4. Appendix 15

5. Plagiarism Report by Bennett Library 16

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Introduction

The evolution of internet technologies—from Web 1.0 through Web 3.0—has dramatically
reshaped the landscape of agriculture, revolutionizing how information is shared, decisions
are made, and resources are accessed. Each era of the internet has introduced new tools and
platforms that enable farmers, agronomists, and stakeholders to improve productivity,
sustainability, and profitability. This report examines the impact of these web phases on the
agricultural sector, highlighting the economic, social, and workplace changes that have arisen
and exploring the challenges and opportunities associated with each era. From the static
information of Web 1.0 to the collaborative platforms of Web 2.0 and the decentralized, AI-
driven solutions of Web 3.0, the internet continues to redefine agriculture in profound ways.

Executive Summary
This report explores the transformative impact of Web 1.0, Web 2.0, and Web 3.0 on the
agricultural industry, using insights from research papers, case studies, articles, and
organizational reports. Each era of the internet has brought unique changes to agriculture,
enhancing knowledge-sharing, connectivity, and resource management.

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Web 1.0, the internet's early phase, provided essential agricultural information but faced
challenges like limited access, low digital literacy, and language barriers in rural areas. Web
2.0 introduced interactive platforms, enabling farmers to engage with peers, consumers, and
experts, promoting inclusivity and financial independence. However, issues like the digital
divide, misinformation, and data privacy emerged. Web 3.0, with technologies like AI,
blockchain, and decentralized finance, promises improvements in efficiency and
transparency. However, high costs and low digital literacy hinder small-scale farmers,
making inclusive access a key challenge.

To illustrate the impact of these advancements, this report draws from a range of resources,
including the AI for Agriculture Innovation initiative by the World Economic Forum and
insights from Intellias on AI in agriculture. We also examine the role of organizations like
Digital Green, which uses social media to support knowledge-sharing among farmers, and
AgFunder, a venture capital firm that promotes innovation through investment in agtech.
These case studies demonstrate the role of AI, IoT, and social media in enhancing
productivity, sustainability, and farmer empowerment.

Rationale behind choosing the industry:

Agriculture is one of the most critical of industries that shapes the entirety of economies and
is also one of the most affected industries by the ever-continuous growth of technology. One
more reason was that some aspects of the assignment was understood during the midterm
where the same industry was chosen. Thereby, researching into it again would further
improve my knowledge on the subject.

Web 1.0 and Its Implications on Agriculture

Web 1.0 is commonly referred to as the “first generation of the World Wide Web,” spanning
roughly from the early 1990s to the mid-2000s. This era of the internet primarily focused on
information-sharing websites, with minimal interactivity, user involvement, and
personalization. Websites were read-only, with limited capabilities and the sole purpose of
presenting information.
In the context of the agriculture industry, Web 1.0 provided a foundation for disseminating
information on farming techniques, crop selection, market prices, weather patterns, and best
practices. While limited compared to the interactive capabilities of the internet today, it
marked a crucial turning point for knowledge sharing in agriculture, enabling farmers,
researchers, and policymakers to gain access to timely, critical information.

How Web 1.0 Works in Agriculture

Web 1.0 is characterized by static HTML pages that deliver content without any complex
processing or interactivity. Websites during this era were created using HTML, basic CSS,
and occasional JavaScript for minor functionality. These static websites allowed users to

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access information but lacked interactive elements such as user accounts, comments, or
content-sharing tools. This model still influenced agriculture by creating an initial web-based
platform for knowledge sharing. Farmers, agronomists, and extension workers could use
early websites to access fundamental information that was previously shared through local
cooperatives or in person.
For instance, agricultural institutions and government bodies could publish resources on
specific crop production techniques, pest control methods, or seasonal recommendations.
Farmers could read these online guides to enhance their knowledge, compare techniques, and
make informed decisions without traveling to remote centres. The content was typically
organized in basic formats such as articles, research papers, and reports.

Impact on Economy, Society, and Workplace

1. Economic Impact
With this increase in access to market information such as crop prices, demand forecasts,
and agricultural inputs (e.g., fertilizers, seeds), farmers who could previously only rely on
local middlemen or markets for pricing information gained the ability to access updated
market trends. This, in turn, allowed them to make better-informed decisions regarding what
to plant, when to sell, and even negotiate better prices, contributing to improved livelihoods,
farming productivity and overall crop production for there respective nations.
Similarly, government agencies and agricultural researchers could distribute innovations in a
more uniform manner. Although these benefits were relatively limited to those who had
access to computers and internet connections, they laid the foundation for an information-
driven agriculture economy.

2. Social Impact
The introduction of Web 1.0 allowed for a slow but significant shift in how communities
learned and shared agricultural knowledge. Traditionally, farmers shared knowledge orally or
through printed material; however, with the emergence of Web 1.0, farmers could access
educational resources from trusted agricultural agencies online. The web facilitated
awareness of agricultural news, enabling farmers to keep updated on developments such as
government subsidies, climate alerts, and new farming technologies.
Web 1.0 also created initial channels for cross-regional knowledge sharing. Farmers from
different regions could read about practices that were working well in other areas and adapt
them to their contexts.
3. Workplace Impact
The agricultural workplace began to see an evolution as Web 1.0 introduced a basic level of
digitization in information management. Agricultural extension workers and consultants
could access online resources and use them to improve their recommendations to farmers.
Research institutes were able to publish findings on their websites, making them more

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accessible to broader audiences. This reduced dependency on physical visits and paper-based
materials for extension officers, contributing to productivity and operational efficiency.

Challenges of Web 1.0 in Agriculture

Despite these positive impacts, there were numerous challenges associated with Web 1.0’s
role in agriculture:
1. Limited Internet Access: Web 1.0 was only accessible to those with internet
connections, which were often scarce in rural agricultural areas. Farmers in remote
regions, particularly in developing countries, lacked the infrastructure and technology
(computers, electricity, stable internet) needed to benefit from Web 1.0 resources.
2. Low Digital Literacy: Farmers who had internet access often lacked digital skills.
The static nature of Web 1.0 websites required at least basic computer literacy to
navigate and understand the content. Without interactive tutorials or guides, farmers
faced significant barriers to leveraging the information available online.
3. Language Barriers: Most Web 1.0 content was primarily published in English or
major regional languages. For farmers speaking local dialects, understanding this
information was a challenge.
4. Static Content Limitations: Web 1.0’s static content meant there was no scope for
user engagement. For instance, without interactive elements, farmers couldn’t ask
questions, participate in discussions, or receive personalized recommendations,
significantly limiting the platform’s effectiveness in dynamic agricultural
environments.
5. Reliability of Information: The internet during the Web 1.0 era lacked regulatory
oversight, making it hard to verify the accuracy of agricultural information.
Misinformation on pesticide usage or crop varieties, for instance, could mislead
farmers and result in crop losses.

Web 2.0 and Its Implications on the Agriculture Industry

Web 2.0 refers to the evolution of the internet from a static collection of web pages in Web
1.0, to a more dynamic and interactive platform that allows for greater user participation and
collaboration. Web 2.0 technologies introduced new capabilities, such as social networking,
content-sharing, user-generated content, and real-time interactivity, transforming how people
communicate and access information. While originally driven by social media and content-
sharing platforms, Web 2.0 has permeated various industries, including agriculture. It has
unlocked new avenues for information dissemination, stakeholder collaboration, and
innovative solutions in the agricultural sector, which has long needed modernization.

Web 2.0 in Agriculture: How Does it Work?

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Web 2.0 applications in agriculture leverage interactive and collaborative platforms to drive
connectivity among farmers, researchers, agronomists, policymakers, and consumers. Key
features include:
 Social Media and Content-Sharing Platforms: Farmers can share experiences,
insights, and best practices via platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.
These platforms enable farmers to share videos, images, and text-based content about
their methods, issues, and experiences.
 Agricultural Knowledge Networks: Specialized forums, blogs, and social networks
like AgroConnect and Farming First facilitate knowledge sharing. These platforms
host discussions on pest control, crop management, and new techniques.
 Data-Driven Platforms and Digital Marketplaces: Applications and websites such
as FarmLogs and CropX provide data insights on soil health, weather patterns, and
market prices. Additionally, digital marketplaces enable direct buying and selling,
reducing middlemen and ensuring fair pricing for producers.
 Mobile Applications for Remote Access: Mobile applications like Plantix offer
farmers remote access to expert advice and problem-solving resources, allowing them
to consult with agricultural experts or other farmers on crop diseases, soil health, and
weather predictions.

Impact on Economy, Society, and Workplace

1. Economic Impact:
Web 2.0 helps farmers sell directly to buyers online, bypassing the intermediaries. It
helped them by reducing the need for middlemen and allowing them to earn more
from their produce.
By accessing online communities, farmers learn cost-saving methods on there farming
and relative techniques and thereby improve efficiency, making it easier to increase
their profits.
Additionally, new tech businesses focused on agriculture create job opportunities and
drive economic growth in rural areas.

2. Impact on Society:
Web 2.0 empowers small farmers, particularly in developing countries, by giving
them access to information and markets they may not have had before. This helps
improve their incomes and supports food security.
Increased transparency through platforms that enable direct farmer-to-consumer
communication builds trust between farmers and consumers. It also helps women in
agriculture gain equal access to resources and knowledge, promoting gender equality
and economic improvement. These platforms help bridge gender disparities by
providing women with equal access to agricultural knowledge, tools, and
marketplaces. This shift empowers women in agriculture, contributing to social
equality and economic growth.

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 Digital platforms and forums bring farmers together, creating communities that
support each other in times of need. This virtual community provides emotional
support and fosters collaboration, which is particularly valuable during periods of
agricultural crisis or adverse weather events.
3. Impact on the Workplace:
Web 2.0 tools encourage digital transformation in the agricultural workplace, with
farmers increasingly relying on mobile devices, GPS technology, and IoT sensors.
This modernized approach brings agriculture closer to other high-tech industries,
driving innovation and growth.
Agricultural experts, consultants, and agri-businesses can provide remote support and
training to farmers through online platforms, eliminating the need for physical
presence and saving travel time and costs.
The shift toward Web 2.0 in agriculture has led to the need for new digital skills
among farmers, agri-businesses, and researchers. Farmers are now learning to use
smartphones, manage online transactions, and interpret data, leading to a more skilled
agricultural workforce.

Challenges Associated with Web 2.0 in Agriculture

 Digital Divide: Many farmers in rural areas lack internet access and digital skills,
which limits their ability to benefit from Web 2.0 resources, creating inequality within
the farming community.
 Data Privacy: With more data being collected, there’s a risk that sensitive
information about crops or markets could be misused, especially by companies,
leaving farmers vulnerable.
 Misinformation: The vast amount of online agricultural information can overwhelm
farmers. Conflicting advice or inaccurate data may lead to poor decisions and
financial losses.
 Resistance to Change: Some farmers, especially in traditional communities, are
hesitant to adopt digital tools due to unfamiliarity with technology or a desire to keep
their traditional practices.
 Environmental Concerns: The increased use of technology can lead to more
electronic waste and energy use, raising concerns about sustainability in digital
farming.

Web 3.0 and Its Implications on the Agriculture Industry

Web 3.0 represents the next stage in the evolution of the internet, where artificial intelligence,
blockchain, and decentralized technologies redefine how we interact with online information
and each other. Web 3.0 moves beyond Web 2.0’s user-generated content and interactivity by
integrating greater automation, intelligent data processing, and decentralization, making
online experiences more personalized and secure.
In agriculture, Web 3.0 promises to bring unprecedented transparency, efficiency, and
connectivity by leveraging smart contracts, blockchain for supply chains, and AI-driven
analytics, offering solutions to some of the industry’s biggest challenges.

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How Web 3.0 Works in Agriculture
Blockchain is a technology that securely records information in a way that can’t be changed,
creating a permanent digital record. In agriculture, blockchain can track every step in the
supply chain, from when crops are planted to when they reach the store. This helps farmers,
suppliers, and consumers see exactly where food comes from and how it was produced,
making the process more transparent and trustworthy.
Smart contracts are like digital agreements that automatically complete tasks when specific
conditions are met. For example, a smart contract between a farmer and a buyer could
automatically send payment when a crop delivery is confirmed. This makes transactions
faster, reduces paperwork, and lowers the chances of disputes.
AI and Machine Learning analyse large amounts of data from soil sensors, weather reports,
and past crop performances to help farmers make better choices. These tools can predict crop
diseases, suggest the best planting times, and even recommend the most efficient ways to
water fields. This helps farmers improve yields and manage resources more effectively.
DAOs (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations) are online communities managed by
their members through blockchain. Farmers can use DAOs to share resources, vote on
important decisions, and distribute profits fairly. This is especially helpful for small farmers
who want to work together and have a stronger voice in the market.

Impact on Economy, Society, and Workplace

1. Economic Impact
Increased Financial Inclusion: Web 3.0 introduces decentralized finance (DeFi),
which provides financial services without traditional banks. Small farmers, who may
not have access to banking, can use DeFi platforms to obtain loans, invest in new
equipment, or expand operations, driving rural economic development.
Enhanced Supply Chain Efficiency: The transparent and traceable nature of
blockchain reduces waste and fraud in the supply chain. With accurate records of crop
sources, processing, and transport, logistics can be optimized, resulting in cost savings
and fresher produce reaching markets.

2. Social Impact
Empowerment of Small Farmers: Web 3.0 democratizes access to information and
financial resources, helping small farmers compete more equally with large producers.
Through DAOs, farmers can collectively manage resources and make shared
decisions, empowering individuals who have limited bargaining power.
Inclusion of Marginalized Groups: By eliminating traditional banking and loan
hurdles, Web 3.0 can support marginalized farmers, including women and minority
farmers, giving them access to global markets, finance, and decision-making
platforms.
3. Workplace Impact

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 Automation of Administrative Tasks: Web 3.0 tools like smart contracts and DAOs
reduce the need for manual paperwork and administrative tasks, making processes
such as record-keeping and payments more efficient.
Enhanced Decision-Making: With AI-driven insights, farmers can make data-backed
decisions on planting, irrigation, and pest control, improving productivity. Smart
farming tools that integrate with Web 3.0 enable farmers to monitor crops, soil, and
weather conditions remotely.

Challenges of Web 3.0 in Agriculture

1. Technical Complexity and Digital Literacy:
Web 3.0 technology is complex and requires a higher level of digital literacy than
many rural farmers currently possess. The transition to Web 3.0 can be challenging for
those with limited knowledge of blockchain or AI. This digital divide could make it
difficult for small farmers to benefit fully from Web 3.0 solutions.
2. Cost of Implementation:
Implementing Web 3.0 technologies, such as blockchain systems, IoT sensors, and AI
tools, requires a substantial initial investment. For small and medium-sized farms,
these costs may be prohibitive. While larger farms may afford these expenses, smaller
farms could struggle to compete, potentially widening the gap between large and
small agricultural operations.

3. Privacy and Security Risks: Web 3.0 tools collect a lot of data, which
needs to be protected. Farmers with limited resources may find it
challenging to secure their information, putting them at risk of data
misuse.

4. Unclear Regulations: Web 3.0’s decentralized systems don’t fit neatly into existing
laws, which can create uncertainty. Without clear rules, it may be harder for farmers
and companies to adopt these tools confidently.

Now, we focus on 2 specific components from Web 2.0 and Web 3.0 that majorly drives our
industries today – Artificial Intelligence and Social Media. To understand it better, we are
gonna be looking at research papers, cases, articles and organisations.

Artificial Intelligence
The "Artificial Intelligence for Agriculture Innovation" (AI4AI) report by the World
Economic Forum outlines an initiative launched in 2020 to leverage emerging technologies
like AI, IoT, blockchain, and drones in India's agriculture sector. In collaboration with the
Government of Telangana, the report aims to transform agriculture with a focus on increasing
productivity, income, and sustainability for smallholder farmers. Here are the main areas of
focus:

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 1. Intelligent Crop Planning: This involves macro and micro-level crop planning,
using AI models to optimize planting schedules, crop types, and resource allocation
based on soil, weather, and market conditions.
2. Smart Farming: Technologies such as IoT-enabled micro-irrigation, AI-driven pest
management, and crop health monitoring support efficient and sustainable farming.
Smart farming also integrates precision input management for fertilizers and
irrigation.
3. Farmgate-to-Fork: This area focuses on post-harvest operations, including AI-
powered quality assessment, blockchain for traceability, and logistics optimization to
improve supply chain efficiency and transparency.
4. Data-Driven Agriculture: Establishing data marketplaces for shared access to
critical datasets (e.g., soil health, weather, crop yields) enables informed decision-
making and innovation across the agricultural value chain.

The initiative includes a roadmap with pilot projects across five districts in Telangana, aimed
at implementing these technologies on a broader scale. The report also highlights the
importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration and frameworks to guide responsible AI
deployment in agriculture, with goals to enhance digital inclusivity, build trust, protect the
environment, and support sustainable incomes.

Find the link to the paper in the Appendix.

The article from Intellias provides an in-depth look at how artificial intelligence is
revolutionizing agriculture across several key areas:

- Precision Agriculture: AI uses sensors to monitor soil and crop health, allowing
farmers to optimize water, nutrients, and overall crop management.
- Yield Prediction: Machine learning analyzes data to predict crop yields, helping with
planning and resource allocation.

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 - Pest and Disease Detection: AI identifies pests and diseases early, reducing crop
losses and minimizing pesticide use.
- Automated Equipment and Robotics: Autonomous machines like tractors, drones,
and robots perform tasks such as planting, watering, and harvesting, increasing
efficiency and reducing labor costs.
- Supply Chain and Quality Management: AI ensures crops meet quality standards,
enhances sorting and packaging, and provides transparency in the supply chain.

Challenges include high technology costs, limited digital infrastructure, and farmer adoption
hurdles, but AI remains essential to creating more resilient, efficient, and sustainable
agricultural systems. Intellias emphasizes that overcoming these barriers will be crucial for
AI to reach its potential in transforming the industry.

Find the link to the article in the Appendix.

Social Media
Digital Green is a non-profit organization that uses social media and technology to promote
sustainable farming practices and improve the livelihoods of farmers, especially in
developing countries. The organization focuses on utilizing videos and social media
platforms to disseminate agricultural knowledge, making it accessible to farmers who may
otherwise have limited access to formal education or resources.

How Digital Green Uses Social Media for Agriculture:

1. Video-Based Learning:

Digital Green's core model involves creating educational videos that demonstrate
best practices in farming. These videos cover a wide range of topics, including crop
management, pest control, sustainable practices, and water conservation. The content
is localized and made available in regional languages, allowing farmers to learn in a
more relatable and accessible manner.

2. Social Media Platforms:

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 The organization primarily utilizes platforms like YouTube to distribute these videos
to farmers. In addition to YouTube, Digital Green has partnered local groups to
ensure the content reaches farmers effectively. By leveraging social media and
internet access, Digital Green provides farmers with the tools to learn and improve
their farming methods at their own pace.

3. Community Engagement:

Digital Green also encourages peer-to-peer learning by allowing farmers to share

their experiences and results. This is often facilitated through local community groups
on social media or messaging platforms like WhatsApp. The peer-to-peer model has
proven effective in increasing engagement and adoption of the shared practices.

Impact: Studies have shown that farmers who engage with Digital Green's content see
improvements in their yields and farming practices. For instance, farmers who viewed
Digital Green’s videos on pest management in India reported better pest control, resulting
in higher productivity

AgFunder is a venture capital firm focused on investments in the agtech (agriculture

technology) sector. The firm connects innovative agtech startups with investors, with the goal
of advancing agricultural technologies that improve productivity, sustainability, and
efficiency in farming practices. AgFunder's platform helps agricultural companies raise
capital, and it also facilitates collaboration between investors and startups working on new
solutions for food production, water management, and sustainability.

How AgFunder Uses Social Media for Agriculture:

1. Crowdfunding and Awareness:

AgFunder leverages social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook to
raise awareness about the latest developments in agtech. Through these platforms,
AgFunder promotes the companies in its portfolio, showcases innovative
technologies, and shares news related to the agriculture sector. By doing so, it attracts
potential investors and stakeholders who are interested in supporting sustainable
agricultural practices.

2. Educational Content and Networking:

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 AgFunder uses its online presence to share valuable industry insights, research
reports, and case studies on emerging trends in agriculture technology. This helps
educate both investors and farmers on the potential of new technologies. It also acts as
a networking hub where agtech entrepreneurs can connect with other industry players,
investors, and thought leaders to discuss advancements and challenges in the field.

3. Digital Marketplace for Agtech:

AgFunder's platform connects agtech startups with investors, which can include larger
agricultural corporations, venture capitalists, and individual backers. Through targeted
campaigns on social media and their website, AgFunder showcases funding
opportunities for startups and highlights key investment rounds in agtech companies.
This enables investors to find the next big idea in agriculture.

4. Portfolio Promotion and Investor Relations:

AgFunder’s social media channels are often used to highlight the successes of its
portfolio companies. By sharing milestones and achievements through regular
updates, AgFunder builds credibility and interest around the technologies being
developed. Social media serves as an important marketing tool, amplifying the
visibility of agricultural innovations and drawing attention to new solutions that can
benefit farmers and the broader agricultural ecosystem.

Find the link to the article in the Appendix

Defining the Future

The future of agriculture is set to change dramatically as new technologies make farming
smarter, more efficient, and better connected. These are some of the key areas that will shape
agriculture in the years to come:
1. Smarter Farming with Data: Advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI)
will help farmers make better decisions by providing real-time information on things
like crop health, weather, and soil quality. With more accurate data, farmers can plan
better, use resources more efficiently, and increase their yields.

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 2. Clear and Honest Supply Chains: Blockchain technology can make it easy to track
food from the farm all the way to the store, helping people know exactly where their
food comes from. This transparency builds trust between farmers and consumers and
reduces waste by making every step of the process more visible and efficient.
3. Financial Access for All Farmers: New digital finance tools, often called
decentralized finance or DeFi, can give farmers in rural areas access to loans and
investment opportunities without the need for traditional banks. This helps small
farmers improve their businesses and grow their income.
4. Stronger Farming Communities: Digital platforms will allow farmers to connect
with others more easily, creating online communities where they can share advice,
resources, and support. This helps farmers work together, make joint decisions, and
have a stronger voice in the industry.
5. Environmentally Friendly Practices: Internet-connected devices (IoT) will help
farmers monitor the environment closely, allowing them to use water, fertilizers, and
pesticides more carefully. This not only saves costs but also supports sustainable
farming that protects the environment for future generations.
These changes will help farmers grow food more efficiently, sustainably, and profitably. By
embracing these new tools, agriculture can move towards a future that benefits everyone
involved—from farmers and businesses to consumers and the environment.

Appendix
- https://agfunder.com/ (Agfunder)
- https://digitalgreen.org/ (Digital Green)
- https://intellias.com/artificial-intelligence-in-agriculture/ (Intellias)
- https://www3.weforum.org/docs/
WEF_Artificial_Intelligence_for_Agriculture_Innovation_2021.pdf
(Research Paper)

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This plagiarism report is done by Bennett University’s Central Library.

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