AGRO-INTELLIGENCE AND INCLUSIVE GROWTH: THE FUTURE OF JHARKHAND'S FARMING WORKFORCE (WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO HAZARIBAGH)

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools in agriculture—collectively termed Agro-Intelligence—offers transformative potential for productivity, resilience and inclusive growth in rural economies. This study examines the adoption of Agro-Intelligence among tribal and smallholder farmers in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, with a focus on Ichak and Keredari blocks. Using a multi-stage stratified sampling design, 144 respondents across four representative villages were surveyed to analyse adoption patterns, yield improvements, income effects and reductions in distress migration. Findings reveal an overall adoption rate of 31.25%, with younger and male farmers exhibiting higher engagement, while adoption among women and middle-aged groups remains constrained by low digital literacy, gendered access and socio-economic vulnerabilities. Villages with higher adoption rates, such as Dekuli and Beltu, showed measurable gains in yield (up to 0.90 qt/acre), income (up to ₹4,900 per household) and reduced seasonal migration (up to 18.75%). The study highlights that the effective uptake of Agro-Intelligence is contingent upon targeted skill development, local-language training, and inclusive outreach strategies for women, youth and marginalized groups. Policy recommendations emphasize the creation of district-level agri-digital training centres, subsidized access to precision agriculture tools, strengthening Farmer Producer Organizations as technology hubs, and fostering public-private-NGO collaboration. The research demonstrates that, when combined with structured skilling and inclusive strategies, Agro-Intelligence can democratize access to technology, enhance agricultural productivity, empower women and youth and contribute to sustainable, equitable rural development in Jharkhand.