Can Technology Save the Future of Farming?
The very foundation of food security is at risk due to unpredictable rainfall, depleting water tables, and inefficient irrigation systems. This is not a distant threat—it is a reality unfolding today.
India, home to over 1.4 billion people, consumes nearly 90% of its freshwater for agriculture. Yet a staggering 30-40% of this water is wasted due to inefficient irrigation techniques. Like filling your water bottle, then spilling nearly half of it before you could take a sip.
What if there was a way to use technology to revolutionize how water is managed in farming? What if precision irrigation, AI-driven analytics, and innovative water conservation strategies could optimize resources, and ensure long-term sustainability?
This is where iHub – AWaDH steps in. Established at IIT Ropar under the Department of Science & Technology’s National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), it is at the forefront of agricultural and water technology development. Leading this groundbreaking initiative is iHub – AWaDH. The company is bridging the gap between research and real-world applications, developing smart irrigation systems, AI-powered water monitoring, and sustainable farming solutions to tackle the nation’s most pressing agricultural challenges.
But how did iHub – AWaDH become a leader in agriculture and water management, and what is the vision that drives its mission? Let’s explore the journey, vision, and impact of this transformative initiative shaping the future of sustainable farming.
A Journey Fueled by Science and Innovation
Dr. Radhika Trikha (CEO) leads the team of iHub – AWaDH. Her journey into the world of agriculture and water management is rooted in a deep passion for science and technology. Her academic excellence in microbial biotechnology earned her gold medals in both graduation and post-graduation, culminating in a doctorate in microbiology. This strong foundation in research was followed by an impactful tenure in science administration and governance, where she spent eight years as a science policy researcher, contributing significantly to India’s 5th National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy (2020).
Transitioning from policy research to hands-on technological innovation, Dr. Radhika joined IIT Ropar as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) before rising to her current role as CEO. Under her leadership, iHub – AWaDH has become a powerhouse for deep-tech solutions, focusing on startups, skilling, and technology development to revolutionize agriculture and water management.
The Genesis of iHub – AWaDH: A Vision Rooted in Innovation
Founded in 2020, iHub – AWaDH was established with a mission to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world applications in agriculture and water management. With an initial funding support of INR 110 crore from DST NM-ICPS, the company fosters deep-tech research, incubates technology-based startups, and provides resources for innovators focused on solving critical challenges in water conservation and precision agriculture.
“Our goal is to ensure environmentally sustainable and profitable agriculture, provide quality food for all, and preserve biodiversity,” says Dr. Radhika, whose leadership has been instrumental in driving the iHub’s success.
As an acclaimed scientist and policy researcher, Dr. Radhika has played a pivotal role in India’s National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy, along with shaping science diplomacy, industry-academia collaborations, and public-private partnerships. Her academic background in Microbial Biotechnology and Intellectual Property Rights gives her a unique edge in translating research into impactful agricultural solutions.
Tackling the Biggest Challenges in Agricultural Water Management
The agricultural sector faces several pressing challenges when it comes to water management, including:
- Inefficient irrigation techniques lead to excessive water usage.
- Limited access to technology for small-scale farmers.
- Lack of real-time water quality monitoring to ensure safe usage.
- Bridging the gap between research and implementation for market-ready solutions.
However to quote Dr. Radhika “Struggles are universal. Each challenge brings valuable lessons, helping us grow and prepare for what lies ahead.”
To tackle these challenges, iHub – AWaDH has adopted a multi-faceted approach by developing cutting-edge solutions, skilling professionals, and accelerating startup innovations in the AgriTech ecosystem.
Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Water Efficiency
Innovation is at the core of iHub – AWaDH’s initiatives, with a strong focus on AI, IoT, machine learning, and cyber-physical systems to optimize agricultural water usage. Some of the flagship technologies developed under its ecosystem include:
Flagship Technologies by iHub – AWaDH
- Real-Time Water Quality Monitoring Systems
- AI-Powered Precision Irrigation
- Nanobubble Technology for Crop Growth
- Digital Entomologist for Biodiversity Monitoring
- MoooSense for Livestock Health
- Real-Time Water Quality Monitoring Systems: These systems provide instant readings of key water parameters, ensuring sustainable water use for irrigation.
- AI-Powered Precision Irrigation: Smart irrigation systems predict crop water needs, reducing waste and enhancing yield.
- Nanobubble Technology for Crop Growth: This breakthrough technology increases oxygen levels in irrigation systems, promoting healthier crops and better water quality.
- Digital Entomologist for Biodiversity Monitoring: AI-powered tools analyze crop health and pest threats to minimize water-intensive crop losses.
- MoooSense for Livestock Health: A revolutionary technology that ensures sustainable livestock farming through real-time health monitoring.
“These innovations are game-changers for Indian agriculture, especially for small farmers who struggle with access to cost-effective, smart irrigation technologies,” Dr. Radhika explains.
Breakthrough Projects & Strategic Partnerships
Under Dr. Radhika’s leadership, iHub – AWaDH has spearheaded multiple high-impact initiatives, including:
- SAMRIDHI Acceleration Program: Now in its 4th edition, this program supports deep-tech startups integrating Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) technology into AgriTech solutions.
- Nanobubble Generator for Water Remediation: Deployed across Punjab in collaboration with the Department of Water & Sanitation, this technology ensures clean and efficient agricultural water usage.
- AI Center of Excellence for Agriculture: Awarded by the Ministry of Education, this initiative is revolutionizing smart farming practices nationwide.
- Satellite Data Integration for Precision Farming: This project optimizes crop yields and water conservation through satellite-imaging insights.
- CPS (Cyber-Physical Systems) skilling programs equip students and professionals with hands-on experience in cutting-edge technologies. These initiatives focus on fostering innovation in agriculture, water, and allied domains through specialized training and workshops.
The iHub collaborates extensively with global institutions, corporate foundations (HDFC, ICICI, Puri Oil Mills), and government bodies to scale its impact, ensuring that sustainable farming practices reach the grassroots level.
Driving Sustainability While Scaling Business Growth
Balancing business growth with sustainability is at the heart of iHub—AWaDH’s mission. The company focuses on integrating eco-friendly and climate-smart agricultural practices, including sustainable irrigation methods to conserve water, low-cost solutions for small and marginal farmers, and AI-driven predictions to support climate-resilient crops. By ensuring that technological advancements align with environmental responsibility, the company empowers farmers with efficient, scalable, and affordable solutions.
Additionally, iHub – AWaDH emphasizes efficient waste management in agriculture, minimizing environmental impact and enhancing resource utilization. Through strategic collaborations with researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders, the company is working toward a self-sufficient and sustainable agricultural sector. By nurturing innovation while prioritizing sustainability, iHub-AWaDH is shaping a future where growth and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
Key Impact Statistics of iHub – AWaDH
Numbers speak volumes, and the impact of iHub – AWaDH has been nothing short of remarkable:
- INR 110 crore was secured from DST NM-ICPS and INR 5 crore from Startup India.
- 110+ startups nurtured, raising over INR 109 crore in investments.
- Startups are valued at over INR 1,200 crore.
- 70+ technologies developed and 180+ intellectual properties secured.
- 3,000+ individuals trained and 1,200+ jobs created through CPS workshops, training, and labs.
- Revenue generation of INR 96 crore by incubated startups.
“These numbers highlight the transformation we are driving, not just in innovation but in economic growth and employment generation,” says Dr. Radhika.
A Vision for the Future of Agricultural Water Management
Looking ahead, Dr. Radhika envisions a future where:
- Smart, digital farming practices revolutionize Indian agriculture.
- Water-efficient techniques become mainstream, ensuring food security while protecting ecosystems.
- Agritech startups thrive in a competitive, globally connected market.
For entrepreneurs looking to make an impact in this space, she advises:
“Focus on scalable, tech-driven solutions, build strong industry collaborations, and always keep sustainability at the core of your innovation.”
Leading the Charge in Agricultural Water Innovation
Through technological breakthroughs, strategic partnerships, and a sustainability-driven approach, iHub – AWaDH is setting new benchmarks in agricultural water management. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Radhika, the company continues to redefine how India approaches water efficiency, smart irrigation, and sustainable farming.
As the agricultural sector undergoes a technological revolution, iHub – AWaDH is leading the way, proving that with the right mix of innovation, policy, and entrepreneurship, the future of agricultural water management is brighter than ever.
Key Takeaways from iHub – AWaDH’s Leadership in Agricultural Water Management
1. Revolutionizing Agricultural Water Management through Technology
iHub – AWaDH is pioneering AI-powered irrigation, real-time water monitoring, and precision farming solutions to tackle India’s water crisis and optimize agricultural sustainability.
2. Dr. Radhika Trikha’s Science-Driven Leadership
With a background in microbial biotechnology and science policy research, Dr. Radhika has transformed iHub – AWaDH into a leading deep-tech research and innovation hub for sustainable agriculture.
3. Bridging Research and Real-world Applications
It provides funding, incubation, and acceleration for startups, ensuring that academic research translates into market-ready solutions for water conservation and efficient farming.
4. Driving Sustainability While Enabling Economic Growth
By promoting eco-friendly irrigation, AI-driven crop resilience, and efficient waste management, iHub – AWaDH is ensuring that agricultural advancements are both profitable and sustainable.
5. A Future Focused on Smart, Scalable, and Sustainable Agriculture
With over INR 110 crore in funding, 110+ startups nurtured, and 70+ technologies developed, iHub – AWaDH is leading the charge in scaling smart agriculture and water conservation solutions for long-term food security.
