Modern farming methods of agriculture are transforming how India feeds a growing population. India has become the world’s fourth-largest economy, surpassing Japan, with a projected GDP of $4.19 trillion by 2025–26. This rapid growth puts more pressure on farming to produce more food with fewer resources.
These innovative techniques help farmers increase yields, reduce waste, and adapt to climate challenges.
In this blog, you’ll discover the key modern farming methods reshaping Indian agriculture and learn how they’re driving productivity and sustainability forward.
What is Modern Farming?
Modern farming refers to using advanced technology and innovative techniques to improve the way crops are grown and livestock is managed. It aims to produce more food while using fewer resources like water, fertilisers, and labour.
Methods such as precision farming, controlled environment agriculture, and mechanisation help farmers work smarter, not harder.
This approach relies on data, automation, and scientific research to handle challenges like pests, diseases, and changing weather patterns. Modern farming methods of agriculture focus on sustainability and reducing the impact on the environment.
While modern farming uses many new tools, traditional farming depends mostly on age-old practices and manual work.
The next section will explore the key differences between modern and traditional farming methods, helping you understand how these approaches compare.
Modern Farming vs Traditional Farming
The differences between modern and traditional farming affect productivity, costs, and the environment. Here’s a simple comparison to highlight the main points:
Aspect | Modern Farming | Traditional Farming |
Technology | Uses machines, sensors, drones, and data analysis | Relies on manual tools and natural observation |
Farming Techniques | Precision farming, hydroponics, and vertical farming | Crop rotation, natural fertilisers, manual planting |
Productivity Levels | Higher yields due to better input control | Lower yields due to less precise methods |
Sustainability & Environmental Impact | Focus on resource-saving and minimal waste | Often uses more soil and water, which can harm the land over time. |
Labour Intensity | Less physical labour, more machine-driven | Labour-intensive, relies on human effort |
The table shows how modern farming uses technology to improve efficiency and reduce the impact on natural resources. Most importantly, as 70% of people in India depend on agriculture, traditional farming can limit production and strain the environment.
Read More: How Can Fertiliser Spraying Drones Help You Save Money in Agriculture?
8 Types of Modern Farming Methods of Agriculture
Modern techniques have changed the way crops are grown and food is produced. These techniques use innovative tools and science-backed systems to improve output, reduce waste, and use resources wisely.
Let’s look at four of the most popular modern farming techniques used in India and how they can help you, too:
1. Precision Farming
Precision farming uses advanced tools to monitor crops and fields. It helps farmers apply the right amount of water, fertiliser, or pesticide at the right time and place.
Based on this data, farmers can make better decisions for each part of their field instead of treating the whole area the same way.
Benefits of precision farming include:
Reduced chemical use by 26%
Early detection of pests and diseases
In August 2023, IFFCO purchased 2,500 drones for fertiliser spraying. The goal was to promote sustainable farming while saving time and reducing chemical exposure.
Similar results have been seen across multiple states in India with Leher's drone spraying services. These services are making it easier for farmers to work faster and protect their crops from overexposure to chemicals.
2. Hydroponics
Hydroponics is a method where you grow plants without using soil. Instead, roots are placed in water mixed with nutrients. The setup gives full control over what your plants need to grow.
This method is part of modern farming methods of agriculture that help save water, reduce space, and grow crops faster.
It works well in cities or areas with poor soil. You can grow vegetables like lettuce, spinach, or tomatoes in small rooms or even on rooftops.
Urban Kisaan, an Indian startup in Hyderabad, has built hydroponic farms that grow leafy greens inside climate-controlled rooms. Even now, vegetables like methi and palak can be grown on a balcony! So, using this method for your farm can work wonderfully if you have a field shortage.
3. Aquaponics
Aquaponics is a smart way to grow plants and raise fish simultaneously. The water from the fish tank carries nutrients from fish waste to the plants.
You get two sources of income: fresh vegetables and healthy fish. This method is part of modern farming methods that cut waste, use less water, and work well even in small spaces.
In an aquaponics system, fish produce waste in the water. Helpful bacteria then break this waste down into nutrients that plants can use. The plants absorb these nutrients through their roots, cleaning the water in the process. This clean water is then sent back to the fish tank, creating a natural, self-sustaining cycle. Benefits of aquaponics:
No need for chemical fertilisers
Works well in urban areas or indoors
Less risk of crop failure due to a balanced system
Red Otter Farms in Pune built one of India’s first commercial aquaponic systems. They grow herbs and leafy greens alongside tilapia fish. In 2019, their system produced up to 70 kg of greens over a week using aquaponics.
4. Vertical Farming
Vertical farming means growing crops in layers, one above the other. These layers are often placed inside buildings, greenhouses, or containers. You can control light, temperature, and water fully, so crops grow faster and cleaner.
This method is great for cities where land is costly or limited. Farmers can grow vegetables all year, without worrying about weather or soil. It also keeps the produce safe from pests and diseases. Key benefits of vertical farming:
Grows crops without needing large fields
Uses LED lights to support plant growth
Reduces pesticide use and keeps food cleaner
Companies like AeroFarms, Agricool, and UrbanKisaan have long used vertical farming and created success stories. Could your farm be the next success story?
5. Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
GMOs are crops that have been scientifically altered to enhance specific traits like pest resistance, drought tolerance, or faster growth.
Modern farming methods of agriculture use GMOs to reduce crop loss and improve food quality, especially in challenging environments.
These crops are developed using precise gene-editing technologies that target improvements without affecting other plant characteristics.
Benefits of GMOs:
Improve resistance to pests and diseases
Lower the need for chemical pesticides
Enhance crop yields in tough climates
Offer longer shelf life and better nutritional value
India is currently testing several genetically modified (GM) crops such as brinjal, tomato, maize, and chickpea. These crops are at different trial stages across the country. India also ranks among the top producers of GM crops globally.
6. Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is a lab-based technique where new plants grow from tiny tissue samples under sterile conditions. This process creates disease-free, uniform, and healthy plants quickly.
It’s commonly used for crops like bananas, sugarcane, and ornamental plants. Tissue culture improves plant quality and yields compared to traditional seedling methods. Benefits of tissue culture:
Produces healthy, disease-free plants
Ensures uniform crop quality
Speeds up plant multiplication
Reduces reliance on seeds from open fields
This technique has immense value, as the global tissue culture industry is expected to reach US$ 1.2 billion by 2034.
7. Controlled-Environment Agriculture (CEA)
CEA involves growing crops in fully controlled environments such as greenhouses, indoor farms, or vertical farming setups. This method protects plants from weather, pests, and diseases while allowing precise control over light, temperature, humidity, and nutrients.
It enables year-round farming with less water and higher yields. Techniques like hydroponics, aeroponics, and climate control are all part of CEA. Benefits of CEA:
Year-round crop production
Better pest and disease control
Efficient use of water and nutrients
Higher and consistent yields
8. Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
IPM is an eco-friendly way to manage pests using a combination of natural, cultural, and chemical controls. Instead of heavy pesticide use, IPM encourages natural predators, crop rotation, and regular pest monitoring. Chemicals are used only when necessary, reducing costs and environmental damage. Benefits of IPM:
Reduces environmental impact
Helps maintain healthy crop ecosystems
Lowers pest resistance risks
With these modern farming methods transforming agriculture, it’s time to understand the essential techniques that make these innovations work in real fields every day.
5 Key Techniques Supporting Modern Farming
Today, many farmers combine traditional knowledge with modern technology to solve everyday problems on the farm. The tools used in this technology are not new types of farming.
Here’s a list of five modern techniques you can use in your farming:
1. Soil Health Monitoring
Healthy soil grows healthy crops. Soil health monitoring helps you check the pH level, moisture, and nutrients before planting anything.
Farmers use sensors or lab kits to scan the land. The data shows if the soil needs more nitrogen, compost, or rest. It also prevents overuse of fertilisers.
2. Smart Irrigation
Every drop of water counts. Smart irrigation helps you water crops only when needed, using moisture sensors and timers.
The system checks the soil and adjusts based on real-time data. Some setups even stop watering if rain is coming soon.
Smart irrigation can help farms reduce water use by 20-60% on farms using tools like drip and sprinkler systems.
3. Remote Sensing
You cannot be in every corner of your farm at once, but satellites and drones can.
Remote sensing uses drone or satellite images to find problems early on the farm. It tracks crop growth and even shows hidden stress in plants.
4. AI-Based Crop Monitoring
AI is not just for big companies. Even small farms now use AI-based apps and sensors to monitor crops 24/7.
These tools predict diseases, recommend fertilisers, and even guide planting times. They learn from your farm's data over time.
The initiative changed chili farming in Khammam district, India. It offered chatbot advice, AI quality checks, and a digital market for buyers and sellers. Farmers involved in the programme shared that their incomes doubled as a result.
5. Drone Spraying
Tired of carrying heavy tanks and walking across fields? Drone spraying is changing that for good.
More importantly, less exposure to chemicals and better safety for you and your workers. Leher also uses AI to make drone spraying even more accurate, protecting both your yield and the environment.
Leher’s drone spraying services use UAVs to apply fertilisers and pesticides evenly. The drones cover up to 50 acres per day and save 20–30% on spraying costs.
What are the Challenges of Modern Farming Methods of Agriculture?
Modern farming methods of agriculture offer many benefits, but they also come with certain challenges. Understanding these limitations helps you prepare and plan better for adopting new techniques. The challenges are:
High Initial Investment: New farming equipment and technologies can be expensive. The startup costs may be too high for small farmers without financial help or subsidies.
Technical Expertise Needed: Using advanced systems requires skilled workers and ongoing training. Farmers and their teams must learn how to operate and maintain new tools properly.
Infrastructure Demands: Many modern methods depend on steady electricity and internet access. Areas without reliable infrastructure may face difficulties keeping systems running.
Environmental Risks: When technology or chemicals are used incorrectly, they may harm soil and water quality. Proper management is crucial to avoid pollution and resource waste.
Market Access & Adoption: Small-scale farmers often find it hard to adopt modern farming methods. Limited support, knowledge, or access to markets can reduce the benefits they receive.
While the challenges can be daunting for farmers, innovative solutions like those offered by Leher can help overcome these hurdles. Leher’s technology and services help make advanced farming techniques more accessible and effective for growers across India.
How Leher Supports Modern Farming?
Leher brings modern farming methods of agriculture closer to farmers through its advanced drone spraying service. This technology helps farmers as follows:
With Leher’s drone spraying, farmers can cover up to 50 acres a day.
This precision reduces chemical use and cuts costs by 20–30% compared to traditional spraying methods.
The drones ensure even coverage, lowering wastage and protecting crops better.
Farmers can easily book drone spraying through Leher’s app, making the service accessible and convenient. This digital approach saves time and labour, allowing farmers to focus on other important tasks.
Final Thoughts
Modern farming methods of agriculture bring many benefits, including better crop yields, cost savings, and reduced environmental impact.
Leher’s drone spraying service helps you apply inputs more precisely, saving time and money while protecting your crops.
Adopting such smart techniques can transform your farm’s productivity and sustainability. Are you ready to make this change and see real results on your land?
Take the first step towards smarter farming today. Contact Us and discover how drone technology can boost your harvest. Don’t miss out on the future of agriculture.
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