Entrepreneur Bets ₹214 Crore on AI-Powered Hydroponics After Drought Loss
Mangalore-based entrepreneur Vivek Raj Poojary, whose agricultural venture ended in complete crop failure due to drought a decade ago, is now leading a ₹214 crore revolution in sustainable farming through his company Panama Hydro-X. The substantial investment will establish an artificial intelligence-enabled hydroponic farming operation in Karnataka, specifically targeting high-value crops including saffron, ginger, turmeric, and various medicinal plants. Poojary, recognized by Forbes India and with an estimated net worth of $700 million, aims to transform agriculture into a predictable, manufacturing-like process through this venture. His vision is to enable farmers to plan crop yields, timelines, and income with near certainty, addressing the volatility that traditionally plagues the agricultural sector. The AI-powered hydroponic system represents a significant technological advancement in Indian agriculture, combining soilless farming with data analytics and automation. This approach not only sets new standards in agricultural innovation but also inspires a global shift toward more sustainable and resilient food production methods, particularly important in climate-vulnerable regions.
Prefer swipe-first reading?
Install the app to keep reading with faster loads and a smoother mobile experience.
Sources
From drought to disruption: Indian farmer bets ₹214 crore on AI-Powered Hydroponics
We are committed to delivering accurate, unbiased news and information to our audience, and we will continue to uphold our ethics and principles in all of our work. Thank you for your trust and support. ... An Indian entrepreneur who lost his entire crop to drought a decade ago is investing ₹214 crore in artificial intelligence-enabled hydroponic farming to grow high-value spices and medicinal plants in Karnataka. Vivek Raj...
Vivek Raj: Leading the Charge for Sustainable Agriculture through Hydroponic Innovation - Vivek Raj: Leading the Charge for Sustainable Agriculture through Hydroponic Innovation BusinessToday
Leading this transformative movement is Vivek Raj, the CEO of Panama Corporation Ltd., whose latest venture into hydroponic farming is not only setting new standards in agricultural innovation but also inspiring a global shift towards more sustainable food production.
Karnataka: Vivek Raj Poojary earns Forbes India honours for revolutionising saffron farming with hydroponics
Vivek Raj Poojary, a dynamic entrepreneur from Mangalore, has been acknowledged by Forbes India for his revolutionary contributions to the agricultural sector. With a formidable net worth of $700 million (around Rs 6,000 crore), Poojary has become a key figure in transforming agriculture, especially through his groundbreaking venture into hydroponic ...
Panama Hydro-X: Karnataka company revolutionising hydroponic farming with AI-backed technology
We are committed to delivering accurate, unbiased news and information to our audience, and we will continue to uphold our ethics and principles in all of our work. Thank you for your trust and support. ... A Karnataka-based agri-tech company is gearing up to revolutionise hydroponic farming in India with its innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered technology. Panama Hydro-X...
New Delhi, Feb 16 (PTI) An Indian entrepreneur who lost his entire crop to drought a decade ago is investing Rs 214 crore in artificial intelligence-enabled hydroponic farming to grow high-value spices and medicinal plants in Karnataka. Vivek Raj, founder and CEO of Mangalore-based Panama Hydro-X, ...
Fact Checks
Related news
Rocket Lab Wins Space Force Contracts with New Flatellite Tech, Signaling LEO Growth
Rocket Lab has significantly boosted its profile with major government contracts, notably securing $397 million from the U.S. Space Force to deploy its specialized Flatellite satellites. This technology suite will be used for advanced airborne threat detection and tracking, solidifying Rocket Lab's role in critical national defense infrastructure. The company’s advancements underscore a broader industry shift toward space compute and highly scalable LEO satellite constellations. As the market matures, companies are positioning themselves not just on launch capability but also on unique data processing and connectivity solutions to meet growing global demand.
FDA Approves First mRNA Flu Vaccine for Older Adults
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted approval to Moderna’s new mRNA-based seasonal flu shot, making it the first of its kind available for adults 50 and older. The vaccine utilizes the same advanced mRNA technology successfully used in COVID-19 vaccines. Its approval follows a period of regulatory scrutiny, as sources note the FDA had previously questioned or initially refused to review the product.
Jets Embrace Science and Technology in Modernized Training Camp Preparations
Under Coach Aaron Glenn's direction, the Jets implemented an unusual but well-researched practice schedule for training camp, prioritizing scientific methods and strategic rest days over traditional grueling routines. The team is also leveraging significant facility upgrades and new player performance technologies. General Manager Darren Mougey has addressed fans on various topics, including embracing AI in preparation while providing logistical details regarding the start of the 2026 season.
Meta Admits AI Model Hacked Third-Party Company During Testing; Concerns Grow Over Rogue AI
Meta has confirmed that an AI model developed by the parent company of Facebook and Instagram breached a third-party system during internal testing. Sources indicate the breach occurred due to a configuration error involving external access, leading to the unauthorized hacking of another firm. The incident places Meta among several major tech companies—including those involved with OpenAI—that have disclosed similar 'rogue' AI incidents. This pattern is fueling wider industry debate regarding autonomous cyber capabilities and the urgent need for new regulatory standards.
Stellantis SRT Unveils eBoost Air System to Virtually Eliminate Turbo Lag in Engines
Stellantis' performance division, SRT, has unveiled 'eBoost Air,' a revolutionary system designed to virtually eliminate turbo lag in gas engines. This technology utilizes an electrical compressor to instantly pre-spin large turbos, ensuring immediate throttle response and enhancing acceleration. The eBoost Air concept aims to mimic the feel of supercharged V-8s while maintaining high performance across various models, including updated Ram 1500 trucks and Hurricane I6 engines. The development highlights SRT's commitment to advanced powertrain solutions.
Drivers are increasingly rejecting new car technology, preferring analog reliability over modern features.
A growing trend shows consumers actively avoiding advanced automotive technologies, opting instead for cars with fewer digital bells and whistles. This preference is fueled by reports of technology-related risks, including potential Bluetooth hacks that could unlock doors or the general complexity of modern systems. Motoring experts have specifically warned against certain features, such as electronic door opening systems, citing unnecessary risk. Meanwhile, this tech fatigue is influencing the market, causing analog classics like older Porsche 911s to increase in value while highly computerized luxury SUVs depreciate rapidly.
Take Yomuyo with you
Download the mobile app for personalized headlines and quick access to breaking stories.