Amaravati, February 17, 2026: Bill Gates, Chairman of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, visited a banana orchard near Undavalli in Andhra Pradesh alongside Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. The visit highlighted the state's push for technology in agriculture.
Officials demonstrated AI tools that detect crop diseases from photos and suggest fixes. Farmers showed how drones spray pesticides precisely on affected areas.
Women farmers explained the Rythu App, which delivers real-time advice on irrigation, soil, markets, and pest control.
Gates examined organic produce and tasted local snacks prepared by the community. He commended the government for its effective AI-based services that cut costs, boost yields, and raise incomes.