International Journal of Agriculture Innovation, Technology and Globalisation (6 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Fostering innovations in agriculture: an analysis of agri-startups and stakeholders engagement  
  by Saravanan Raj, Sandipamu Raahalya, Anupam Anand 
  Abstract: This study explores the potential of agri-startups to address critical challenges in the agriculture sector, focusing on their ability to thrive in countries with untapped problems. A conceptual framework is proposed to understand stakeholder roles and interactions in the agri-startup ecosystem. The research methodology involved data collection from 108 agri-startups incubated at MANAGE-Center for Innovations and Agripreneurship (CIA). An exploratory factor analysis using principal component analysis (PCA) identified five factors based on 15 variables. The stakeholder engagement index revealed effective engagement with potential customers (farmers), scoring 0.79, while NGOs scored the lowest at 0.64. Recommendations to strengthen the ecosystem include fostering support, encouraging mentorship, promoting market access, and enhancing digital literacy. The study contributes to understanding the dynamics of the agri-startup ecosystem and provides insights for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to foster innovation and sustainable growth in the agriculture sector.
  Keywords: agri-startups; stakeholder; principal component analysis; PCA; ecosystem; policymakers.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJAITG.2024.10068396
   
  
• Determinants of Innovative mechanised harvesting in Sri Lankan tea plantations  
  by T. G. Nimal Mahinda, Mohamed Esham, H. S. R. Rosairo, H.W. Shyamalie 
  Abstract: Sri Lankan tea plantations are facing severe labour shortages due to several factors. This issue directly affects tea prices and, consequently, the entire global tea-drinking community. Although innovative mechanised harvesting (IMH) is an alternative approach, tea plantations in South Asia have not adopted it largely. To ensure the successful adoption of IMH, this study examines the key determinants of IMH from a practical perspective. Data for this cross-sectional study were collected through a survey in tea plantations. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The positive attitude of plantation managers, organisational factors, facilitation, and crop factors are the most significant determinants. The perceived usefulness and ease of use of IMH have a significant impact on the attitude of managers which have not been statistically tested before. The study suggests developing a platform where IMH adopters can share their experiences in order to improve adoption.
  Keywords: adoption; determinants; labour shortage; innovative; mechanised harvesting; tea plantation; Sri Lanka.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJAITG.2025.10070552
   
  
• Innovation capability of agro startups: from digitalisation to sustainability  
  by Vrinda Tikkha, Prachi Agarwal, Rohit Rajwanshi, Sanjeev Swami 
  Abstract: This study offers a comprehensive exploration (endogenous and exogenous) of the innovation capability of agro-based startups leading to digital transformation and subsequently to overall sustainable performance. It provides an in-depth analysis of the global landscape of agro startups, with a particular emphasis on the vibrant ecosystem in India, while illuminating the transformative potential of digital technologies in reshaping traditional agricultural practices. The study encompasses both endogenous and exogenous factors, which are meticulously examined, offering nuanced insights into their interplay within the startup environment. Furthermore, the study categorises sustainability performance indicators across social, economic, and environmental dimensions, emphasising the necessity for startups to prioritise comprehensive sustainability measures. By integrating discussions on digital transformation, the study underscores the intertwined progress achieved by agro startups, catalysing advancements across societal, economic, and environmental fronts, thus paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future.
  Keywords: agro-based startups; innovation capability; digital transformation; sustainable performance.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJAITG.2025.10070553
   
  
• Institutional factors and mobile banking adoption among agri-entrepreneurs in Northern Uganda: exploring the mediating role of behavioural factors  
  by Jackson Abandu, Benedict Oyo, Geoffrey Maxwell Malinga, Basil Mugonola 
  Abstract: Mobile banking provides a transformative approach for advancing financial inclusion and economic growth among marginalised communities. Nevertheless, the use of this technology in developing regions remains constrained, primarily due to behavioural tendencies. Using the TAM framework and process macro analysis, this study explores how behavioural factors such as attitude, trust, and innovativeness mediate the influence of institutional factors on mobile banking adoption among agri-entrepreneurs in Northern Uganda. A survey of 480 respondents was conducted. The findings indicate that attitude is a major adoption predictor, with trust and innovativeness as mediators. Institutional support, encompassing knowledge dissemination, coordination, training, awareness, user protection, and sustainability play a crucial role in fostering a positive attitude and trust among agri-entrepreneurs. This underscores the role of behavioural factors in shaping agri-entrepreneurs adoption of mobile banking. The study contributes valuable insights into enhancing adoption strategies tailored to the agricultural sector in developing economies.
  Keywords: adoption; agri-entrepreneur; attitude; innovativeness; mobile banking; TAM; trust.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJAITG.2025.10071166
   
  
• Hybrid irrigation system using YOLO V3 algorithm  
  by Manisha Rajesh Mhetre 
  Abstract: Todays farmers generally lack the necessary expertise of farming and agriculture, which makes it more irregular. The majority of farming and agricultural activities utilise prediction and forecasting. When it fails, the farmers must bear heavy losses, and some even commit themselves. We cannot ignore variables like temperature and moisture since we understand how important irrigation, good soil, air quality, and agricultural growth are. Farmers can benefit from sensor and monitor technologies to help them more accurately and continuously monitor crop quality. We developed a smart approach that can make 50% of a decision based on ontology, while the other 50% is dependent on the sensor data values. A machine learning method is then used to examine the resulting decision. Between the ESP8266 module and the primary internet of things server, an edge server is also deployed. By using this method, the IoT servers task will be reduced, and the systems performance will be enhanced. Users can quickly connect to and examine the data gathered by various sensors. The key benefit of this strategy is that it enables consumers to easily visualise the study findings.
  Keywords: CNN; field parameters; IoT; ontology; web application; Yolo V3.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJAITG.2025.10071328
   
  
• Developing business models for agritourism in Vietnam using service design approach  
  by Luu Van Thong Trac, Thi Trang Thanh Nguyen, Chen-Fa Wu 
  Abstract: Vietnam has faced internal migration and a shortage of young labourers in agriculture, prompting the government to encourage entrepreneurship and rural revitalisation. Agritourism has emerged to promote rural development by combining farming with commercial tourism. However, improving customer satisfaction and repeat visits could be enhanced for agritourism in Vietnam. This research aims to develop a service design framework for agritourism in An Giang province, Mekong Delta, to contribute to rural revitalisation. The study identifies customer touchpoints, tourist motivations, and expectations and employs service design to create an innovative agritourism model. Results emphasise the importance of detailed information, authentic experiences, and personalised follow-up strategies. By carefully designing and addressing each touchpoint, agritourism in the Mekong Delta can attract more visitors, stimulate economic growth, and preserve local culture.
  Keywords: rural revitalisation; agritourism; service touchpoints; Mekong Delta.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJAITG.2025.10071329