Agricultural supply chain planning considering the role of Industry 4.0: Technology assessment approach

Abstract

The agricultural supply chain (ASC) is constantly evolving, but with increasing demand and a significant role in human life, challenges to maintaining efficiency, productivity, and sustainability are becoming increasingly apparent. Agriculture 4.0, a term coined by Industry 4.0, aims to develop the ASC’s capabilities to respond to diverse demands and achieve optimal sustainability and productivity. This involves utilizing intelligent technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), cyber-physical systems (CPSs), blockchain, big data processing, and additive manufacturing. However, implementing these technologies in the ASC can be challenging due to economic, environmental, and social challenges. To overcome these challenges, it is crucial to implement smart and powerful technologies like the IoT, CPSs, blockchain, big data processing, and additive manufacturing. © 2025 selection and editorial matter, Bharti, Shikha Singh, Anand Pandey and Amit Sachan; individual chapters, the contributors.