Grain ATMs, smart warehouses take centre stage at WFP’s AI showcase in India

From biometric grain dispensers to AI-driven hunger maps, the World Food Programme showcased how artificial intelligence is reshaping food security delivery at a global summit in New Delhi.

Artificial intelligence-powered solutions aimed at transforming how food assistance reaches vulnerable communities were showcased this week in New Delhi at the Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit, with a strong focus on hunger prevention and nutrition systems.

The exhibition, led by the World Food Programme (WFP), highlighted innovations ranging from biometric grain dispensers and smart warehouses to crisis-mapping platforms and AI-powered communication tools. Together, they demonstrated how data and machine learning can strengthen food and nutrition systems at scale.

Among the standout innovations was Annapurti, a “grain ATM” that allows beneficiaries of public food schemes to authenticate themselves using biometrics and collect rations quickly and accurately. WFP India Representative Elisabeth Faure said the system offers dignified, round-the-clock access to food grains, eliminating long waits and the loss of daily wages. The technology is already being scaled across India and has expanded into neighbouring Nepal.

The showcase also featured AI-enabled smart warehouses, where sensors monitor moisture, pest activity and stock levels in real time, helping prevent spoilage and improve supply-chain efficiency. Route-optimisation tools supporting India’s massive public distribution system — which serves over 800 million people monthly through more than 600,000 outlets — were highlighted for reducing delivery times and carbon emissions.

Parvinder Singh, Head of Communications and Media at WFP India, said the event was significant not just for its technology, but for its location. Hosting the summit in India underscored how AI solutions developed in the Global South can directly address food security challenges faced by developing nations.

Global-level AI platforms were also presented, including systems that help humanitarian agencies rapidly assess crises, forecast needs and plan the most efficient delivery routes. Magan Naidoo, WFP’s Chief Data Officer, said integrating AI across operations could improve efficiency and forecasting accuracy by 30–50% through predictive analytics and early-warning systems.

Alongside the exhibition, a hackathon focused on last-mile nutrition challenges encouraged local innovation. Winning ideas included tools linking school meals with nutrition gardens, a mobile nutrition app, and a system to predict child malnutrition risks. Singh noted that such grassroots solutions are vital to closing gaps that persist despite strong safety-net programmes.

UN Resident Coordinator in India Stephan Priesner said India’s leadership in digital innovation makes it an ideal testing ground for scalable global solutions. He added that AI, when combined with inclusive partnerships and policy support, can significantly enhance the reach and effectiveness of humanitarian food systems worldwide.