Launching of the Precision Farming and AI-Driven Food Production Scheme

Launching of the Precision Farming and AI-Driven Food Production Scheme

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The Precision Farming and AI-Driven Food Production Scheme was officially launched on 18th August 2026 at the Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (FAREI) head office. It aims to promote adoption of precision equipment and data driven technologies to optimize resource use and to boost productivity. The initiative was unveiled by the Honourable Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, Dr Arvin Boolell, in the presence of Junior Minister Mr Gilles Fabrice David and stakeholders.

Hon. Dr A Boolell Highlighted the need to strengthen agricultural resilience against climate change, global disruptions and worst-case scenarios and the need for preparedness. He stressed that locally produced food must remain affordable for all rather than become a luxury item, advocating for a balanced approach between supporting local producers and managing food imports to safeguard long-term food security. To growing concerns on pesticides residues in food he called for norms to be respected and move towards safer, organic food production. He also shared ongoing negotiations regarding drones use in agriculture as their adoption is delayed due to strict security rules.

The Hon. Mr G F David stressed on how AI, robotics, sensors and renewable energy can optimize resource use, reduce water and fertilizer consumption and keep local farmers competitive.He also emphasized that digital transformation in agriculture is part of a broader national strategy. “No AI can replace the experience of a farmer, but technology gives us extra means to participate in the transformation” he stated. Both Ministers called upon the youth to join and contribute to a modern as well as healthier agricultural production.

Speaking earlier, in her opening address, the CEO of FAREI, Dr M Madhou highlighted that the event served both to launch the scheme and to give an insight on changes to existing schemes brought around following discussions with stakeholders. She stressed that access agri-tech was part of a democratisation process where technology becomes accessible and farmers. For his part, the Assistant Director of Extension and Training Department, Mr A Goolaub, showcased salient changes making existing schemes more accessible. Among them are lease land rholding requirment being reduced to 3 years, eligibility to Sheltered Farming Scheme Scheme for land holders also reduced to 400 m2 and and grant up to Rs 2M for a total area of 2000 m2 greenhouse. Under this new scheme, the Economist / Senior Economist, Mr V Aujayeb, informed that eligible local producers can benefit from a part-financing grant covering 50% of eligible project costs, capped at MUR 2 million, with an implementation timeline of up to 24 months.

The grant covers a non-exhaustive list of modern agricultural technologies, including:

  • Precision Agriculture: Drones, GPS-guided equipment, IoT soil sensors, and farm mapping software.
  • Automation & Robotics: Autonomous weeding/harvesting robots, automated greenhouse controls, and milking or feeding systems.
  • Smart Water Management: Precision fertigation, smart drip irrigation, and automated storage monitoring.
  • Indoor & Advanced Systems: Hydroponics, multi-tier vertical growing towers, and LED horticultural lighting.

Application forms and eligibility criteria can be obtained online at www.farei.mu or at any FAREI sub-office. Completed applications and required documentation should be submitted directly to the respective sub-office or emailed to bdu@farei.mu.