VVCE’s MoU with IIT Ropar on AI in Agriculture

In a significant step toward strengthening research and innovation, Vidyavardhaka College of Engineering (VVCE), Mysuru, on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) virtually with the Alliance for Next-Gen Nourishment through Agriculture Modernisation (ANNAM)-Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture, at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Ropar.

The Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Agriculture at IIT Ropar, supported by the Ministry of Education under a national initiative, is one of three CoEs established in Agriculture, Healthcare, and Sustainable Cities, with a funding of ₹311 crore. The centre focuses on transforming agriculture through Artificial Intelligence and interdisciplinary research. It addresses key challenges such as climate variability, soil degradation, water scarcity, pest control, and supply chain inefficiencies through smart farming solutions, according to a press release.

The MoU was signed virtually in the presence of Shobha Shankar, Vice-Principal and Dean (Academics), VVCE; Shilpa B.S., coordinator, VVCE, along with faculty and researchers from both institutions.

“The initiative has received support from the Vidyavardhaka Sangha Management, whose vision has enabled VVCE to expand its academic collaborations. The MoU reinforces the VVCE’s commitment to research excellence and sustainable development through technology,” the release added.