The agricultural sector needs to be transitioned to a new technological level. This was stated by the President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, at a meeting on rural development and improving the efficiency of the agrarian sector, as reported by a BELTA correspondent.
"It is high time to universally transition the agricultural sector to a new technological level and implement precision farming. This allows for the creation of a favourable environment for any crop to grow, thus reducing material costs and increasing the volume and quality of production," Alexander Lukashenko noted. "We have the key elements for creating such a system today, and this is a long-term strategy."
He pointed out that global leaders in agricultural production invest heavily in creating smart technology, and the digitalisation in their agricultural sectors reaches up to 80%.
"Smart agriculture is today and for the future – an important priority in the fight against competitors. A programme is needed, including personnel training. You don't need to involve everyone; start with those who want to and have the capabilities. But you should start today. We must revolutionise agricultural engineering and agriculture," demanded the head of state. "But do not forget that before making a revolution, we need to achieve normal quality of agricultural machinery that works in the fields."
At the same time, with proper discipline, the use of high-yielding crop varieties and animal breeds, and existing technologies, it is possible to work one and a half to two times more efficiently even today, the President is convinced.
Source: belta.by