Perspective Chapter: Mechanization in Agricultural Production From Horizontal and Vertical Perspective

Abstract

The mechanization of agricultural system, both horizontal and vertical cultivation, is imperative for judicious application of resources, reduction in drudgery of workforce, amelioration of productivity and improvement in competitiveness of the produce. However, the reduction in per capita land availability has triggered a mass migration towards vertical cultivation system with heavy reliance towards automation, Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence. The vertical system of cultivation and protected cultivation system is essential to overcome the limitations of small land holdings, particularly in developing countries and combat global climate change. With the result, the concept of hydroponics, aquaponics, aeroponics is gaining momentum at a rapid pace. The horizontal and vertical system also demands the preparation of organic fertilizer through advanced machinery for bolstering the soil fertility and enhancement in productivity of agricultural crops.