Jakarta, INTI – Agricultural technology has proven its role in reducing poverty rates in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The use of tractors, rice harvesters, and water pumps helps farmers improve work efficiency, accelerate agricultural processes, and increase yields. As a result, farmers can optimize agricultural productivity and enhance their economic well-being.
Agricultural Technology and Poverty Challenges in NTT
According to data from the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS), the poverty rate in NTT in 2023 reached 19.96%, down from 20.99% in 2021 and 20.05% in 2022. Despite this positive trend, more than one million people in NTT still live below the poverty line.
Ironically, the majority of the poor in NTT are farmers. Traditional farming methods that still rely on conventional tools such as hoes and sickles hinder production growth and farmers' income. The lack of access to modern agricultural technology remains one of the main factors contributing to the low welfare of farmers in this region.
The Impact of Agricultural Modernization
The implementation of modern agricultural technology has significantly improved agricultural output and farmers' work efficiency. The use of equipment such as tractors and harvesters speeds up land processing and harvesting, allowing farmers to reduce production costs and increase productivity.
However, the main challenges in adopting this technology are the high cost of equipment and the lack of training on its usage. Farmers need guidance in utilizing and maintaining these tools to maximize their benefits. Therefore, the role of the government and the private sector is crucial in providing more affordable access to technology and educating farmers.
The Role of Technology in Food Security
As an agrarian country, Indonesia must adopt modern agricultural technology to address climate change challenges and enhance food security. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, agricultural modernization can improve farmers' welfare by increasing the Farmer's Exchange Rate (NTP) and the Farmer's Business Exchange Rate (NTUP). Additionally, production costs can be reduced by up to 30%, while land productivity can increase by 33.83%.
In recent years, the Ministry of Agriculture has developed digital-based technologies such as autonomous tractors, seed-spreading drones, and IoT-based harvesting tools. With the Industrial Revolution 4.0, traditional farming is gradually transforming into technology-based agriculture.
The Future of Agriculture in NTT
To embrace Agriculture 4.0, technological proficiency among farmers, particularly the younger generation, is crucial. Proper policy support is needed to ensure that agricultural technology becomes more accessible and beneficial for farmers across Indonesia, especially in underdeveloped regions like NTT.
Successful adoption of technology will have a significant impact on national food security and farmers' welfare. With support from various stakeholders, Indonesia's agricultural sector can grow more rapidly and become more competitive on a global scale.
Conclusion
Modern agricultural technology has proven effective in increasing efficiency and yields in NTT, ultimately helping to reduce poverty among farmers. Although challenges remain in implementing this technology, the right policies and broader access to modern farming tools will pave the way for a brighter future for Indonesia's agricultural sector. The transition to technology-based agriculture not only boosts productivity but also serves as a concrete step toward achieving sustainable food security.
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