AI can change how farmers water their fields from cloud to soil
Ananya Das ’26 and Kshiti Kangovi ’26 are working to address the global crisis of water scarcity and the inequities it creates for farmers and communities around the world. Their answer is an AI-powered irrigation system that blends soil sensor data, crop needs, and weather forecasts to tell farmers exactly when—and how much—to water.
The two multidisciplinary engineering technology (MXET) students from Texas A&M University won a $100,000 prize at the university’s “Building a Better Future Through Business and AI” competition, which invited undergraduates to pitch AI-driven solutions to real-world problems. Their idea took first place out of 103 entries from 37 universities.
Das and Kangovi believe their concept stood out because it addresses a global challenge with a solution that is practical, low-cost, and scalable for communities that lack resources.
“With more than 60% of Texas currently facing drought conditions, the issue hits close to home, which made our project even more meaningful,” Kangovi said.
Their proposed company, SomaTech, uses biodegradable polymers that absorb and store water in the soil, creating a natural reserve for plant roots. This is especially important in drought-stricken regions where water often evaporates or washes away before plants can use it. By pairing these water-holding polymers with intelligent irrigation, their system reduces water waste, lowers costs, and boosts crop production.
“Smarter irrigation can transform not only farmers’ yields but entire communities,” Das explained. “Our research showed that drought-prone areas remain underserved, with few solutions built specifically for their needs. That gap fueled our determination to build this venture.”
Both students are on MXET’s mechatronics track and minoring in embedded systems—experience they say gave them the technical foundation to design a real, scalable solution using sensors, data, and system integration.
They worked closely with Dr. Gaurav Pandey, an associate professor in the MXET program, who helped them strengthen the technical side of the project.
“We’re incredibly grateful for Dr. Pandey’s guidance, time, and belief in our idea,” Das said.
“As a mentor, it’s inspiring to watch students grow as they take charge of their innovations,” Pandey said. “Kshiti and Ananya’s creativity, persistence, and dedication to solving real-world challenges represent the best of the MXET program and Texas A&M.”
Kangovi also noted the strong support they received from the ETID Department’s faculty and teaching assistants, who offered feedback and expertise throughout the process.
They further credited mentors Jim Donnell, Chris Curran, and Chris Westfall from the Meloy Program for their insight.
Along with the cash prize, the award includes a year-long mentorship with a venture capitalist—support that will help them advance SomaTech, refine their design, run pilot tests, and pursue partnerships to bring the system to the communities most affected by water shortages.
“We’re excited to see where this journey leads and how much impact we can create,” Das said.
