The vast fields of the Chinese mainland resonate with the hum of advanced agricultural machinery, orchestrating a symphony of harvest. In 2023, China’s total grain output reached 695.41 billion kilograms, marking nine consecutive years of stability above 650 billion kilograms. With summer grains yielding a bumper harvest and an increase in autumn grain acreage, another abundant season is anticipated. Behind these achievements lies the rapid advancement of agricultural modernization and the formidable force of technological innovation in China.
Technological Innovation Promotes Agricultural Modernization
At the core of grain yield improvement is the enhancement of crop variety. In recent years, China has made significant breakthroughs in breeding major grain crops such as rice, wheat, and corn. Utilizing gene editing and hybrid breeding technologies, high-yield, high-quality new varieties resistant to pests, diseases, drought, and water-logging have been developed. For instance, the promotion of “super rice” has significantly increased per-unit rice yields, contributing substantially to grain production growth.
The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, and artificial intelligence (AI) is profoundly transforming traditional agriculture. Field sensors provide real-time monitoring of soil moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels. Intelligent irrigation systems use this data to precisely control water application, conserving water resources while optimizing crop growth conditions. The use of drones for pesticide application has increased efficiency, reduced pesticide usage, and minimized environmental pollution.
Close collaboration between research institutions and farmers has accelerated the transformation of agricultural technological achievements. Agricultural technology extension stations have been established nationwide, offering regular training to enhance farmers’ technological literacy. Demonstration fields showcase the significant effects of new technologies and varieties, driving regional agricultural development.
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Technology assists acceleration of China's agricultural modernization
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