Whalesbook
World Bank President Ajay Banga is advocating for the broad use of 'Small AI'. This refers to artificial intelligence that runs on inexpensive hardware and uses local languages to solve practical problems for farmers and rural populations. Banga discussed this at the ATX Singapore 2026 technology summit.
Indian Farmers Leading the Way
Banga shared a story from Uttar Pradesh, India. A farmer used an old mobile phone to take a picture of a diseased crop leaf. The image was sent to agricultural experts who then provided a diagnosis and treatment advice. This shows how AI can be directly useful for farming challenges.
Improving Healthcare Access
In Indonesia, a nurse used a basic internet connection to send a picture of a patient's rash to a network of clinics. These clinics used a local diagnostic tool to help with patient care. This demonstrates AI's ability to extend healthcare services to remote areas.
Affordable Tech, Big Impact
These everyday uses of AI are often overlooked but offer a significant chance for emerging markets if used well in rural areas. Banga stressed that affordable and easily available local technology can make a big positive difference.
Singapore-based technology entrepreneur Saurav Mukherjee agreed, predicting that AI will increasingly spread beyond traditional industries like manufacturing into agriculture and food production. He noted that AI tools can help farmers assess seed quality and provide detailed information on weather and soil. Mukherjee also pointed out that basic mobile technology can connect patients in remote villages with doctors for initial treatment. He mentioned that the fast growth of internet and 5G services in India supports these innovations.
While acknowledging the global rush to invest in advanced technologies, Mukherjee warned about a potential problem: a shortage of skilled workers needed for AI adoption. He said, "There are no options, for AI brings efficiency and productivity in the workplace and enterprises across are adopting it for the daily work flow." Mukherjee, who founded ORCA Media in Singapore, called for governments to actively fund technology adoption and create incentives for private investment.