Integral University Inaugurates International AI & Robotics Agriculture Congress, Strengthens Viksit Bharat Vision
The international congress aims to promote innovative, technology-driven solutions to transform Indian agriculture in alignment with the national vision of Viksit Bharat. The inaugural session brought together academicians, scientists, researchers, policymakers, industry experts, agri-entrepreneurs, and progressive farmers from India and abroad to deliberate on the role of artificial intelligence, robotics, and smart technologies in building a sustainable, resilient, and future-ready agricultural ecosystem.
The event was graced by Shri Dinesh Pratap Singh, Hon’ble Minister of State for Horticulture, Agricultural Marketing and Agricultural Foreign Trade, Government of Uttar Pradesh, as the Chief Guest. He lauded Integral University for organizing the congress and emphasized the vital role of horticulture and advanced technologies in achieving sustainable agricultural growth and ensuring food security.
Prof. S. W. Akhtar, Hon’ble Chancellor and Founder of Integral University and Patron of the Congress, stated that the integration of AI and modern technologies is crucial to addressing sustainability challenges in agriculture and strengthening rural development to achieve the goals of Viksit Bharat.
Prof. Panjab Singh, Hon’ble Chancellor, Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi, highlighted that climate change-induced water stress and land degradation pose serious threats to agricultural productivity. He noted that AI- and robotics-supported smart agriculture offers practical solutions for climate-resilient farming.
Addressing the gathering, H.E. Dr. Manoj Nardeosingh, Secretary General, African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO), New Delhi, spoke on the transformative impact of AI and robotics on agriculture and farmers’ livelihoods, guided by the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. H.E. Mustapha Jawara, High Commissioner of the Republic of The Gambia to India, emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and knowledge sharing for sustainable agricultural development.
Dr. Syed Nadeem Akhtar, Hon’ble Pro-Chancellor, Integral University, highlighted the growing relevance of AI in revolutionizing farming practices through enhanced decision-making, improved productivity, and optimized resource utilization. Prof. Javed Musarrat, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Integral University, reiterated the university’s commitment to research-driven innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and capacity building to address emerging global agricultural challenges.
The congress witnessed the distinguished presence of several eminent personalities, including Shri Akbal Ahmad Shah, Former Minister of Agriculture & Cooperatives, Government of Nepal; Dr. M. J. Khan, Chairman Emeritus, ICFA; Dr. Mazin Al Masoodi, Minister Plenipotentiary, League of Arab States; Shri Sunil Chaudhary, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Government of Uttar Pradesh; Padma Shri Kalimullah Khan, Mango Man of India; Padma Shri Uma Shankar Pandey, Waterman of India; Dr. Sanjay Singh, Director General, UPCAR; Additional Pro-Chancellors Dr. Nida Fatima, Mr. Syed Fauzan Akhtar and Mr. Syed Adnan Akhtar; and Prof. Furqan Qamar, Chief Advisor to the Hon’ble Chancellor, Integral University, along with several Vice-Chancellors, Directors, senior scientists, and policymakers.
As part of the congress, the AIRSA-VBCON 2025 Expo was inaugurated at Integral University, showcasing emerging technologies, AI-enabled farming solutions, robotics-based applications, and innovative models aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.
The congress is being organized with the support of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, along with national and international organizations including GIZ. Prof. Mohd. Haris Siddiqui, Convenor, AIRSA-VBCON 2025 and Registrar, welcomed the guests. The event was hosted by Prof. Alvina Farooqui, while Prof. Saba Siddiqui delivered the vote of thanks.