Economic Development of Rural India Through Establishment of Agri-Tech Park 
Rayisha Rana1, Kusum Rana2, Gunjan Chhabra3

1Rayisha Rana, Départment of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala, Punjab, India.

2Kusum Rana, Department of Home Science, Principal Extension Specialist, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jhajjar, CCSHAU, Hisar, Haryana, India. 

3Gunjan Chhabra, Assistant Professor, Department of Systemics, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. 

Manuscript received on 09 October 2021 | Revised Manuscript received on 25 October 2021 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 November 2021 | Manuscript published on 30 November 2021 | PP: 15-23 | Volume-1 Issue-2, November 2021 | Retrieval Number:100.1/ijef.B2506111221 | DOI: 10.54105/ijef.B2506.111221 

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Abstract: India has always been on the top spot in terms of tourism and has attracted domestic and foreign tourists throughout the year. India is the land of farmers, has a rich and diverse culture and is best known for its hospitality. Tourism has become a source of income for many people, therefore it’s time to connect tourism along with agriculture to enhance the income of Indian farmers. Indian farmers generally face a lot of issues related to their income; hence numerous suicide cases have been registered in the past. The objective of this research paper is to provide a solution for the farmers by introducing Agri- tourism Technology Park. Agri-tourism offers the domestic and foreign tourists an opportunity to connect with the heritage, providing a hands-on-experience, showcasing the rich biodiversity, local food products, handicrafts and culture. On the other hand, the amalgamation of technology can provide smooth and secure tourism experience for the visitors. This Park includes an agricultural patch of about 5 acres, earmarked to cater the needs of Rabi and Kharif crops. Latest agricultural crop growing techniques like vertical farming using 70% less water than traditional farming. Hydroponic system for demonstrating these techniques to Agri- tech park visitors to acquaint them with futuristic farming operations. Aquaponic solar greenhouse will be established for growing vegetables and medicinal plants. A space of about 1 acre shall be delineated for a cattle farm that would be used to rear different breeds of cows like Sahiwal and Hariana and buffalo breeds like Murrah and Nili Ravi. Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence techniques will be employed for monitoring cattle feed, nutrition and milk processing and general well-being of animals. Re – circulatory Aqua culture system will be used for high density stocking of fish in a smaller space. Interactive virtual field trips and activities will be offered in a variety of themes that would give information on the importance of plants, various cropping techniques, role of insects and the feeding and living pattern of animals, fish bees etc. The establishment of an Agri-tourism technology park at Amritsar district of Punjab has been planned with a focus on the sustainable development of human environment in and around the region.

Keywords: Agro-tech, Internet of Things, Tourism, Sustainable Development, Agro-tourism
Scope of the Article: Economic Development