In a groundbreaking move, the government is set to introduce sensors on farms to monitor and optimize the use of water, fertilizers, chemicals, and pesticides. The initiative aims to promote smart farming, enhancing water efficiency, and curbing the excessive use of pesticides and chemicals that pose health risks, according to a senior government official who spoke to ET anonymously.
This innovative approach, aligned with the recently announced drone scheme, envisions a 50-70% improvement in resource use efficiency through precision techniques, varying with the crop and production scale. Internet of Things (IoT)-based farming sensors will communicate vital information to farmers, guiding them on water, fertilizer, and pesticide needs, preventing overconsumption and optimizing inputs.
Addressing concerns about chemical overuse in agriculture, the government’s focus on smart farming aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2019 Independence Day appeal to farmers to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The proposed sensor-based technology aims to surpass the effectiveness of the existing soil health card scheme launched in 2015.
The Union cabinet recently approved a central scheme providing drones to 15,000 progressive women self-help groups, allocating ₹1,261 crore for two years starting 2024-25. This initiative aims to facilitate the spraying of fertilizers and pesticides, contributing to efficient farming practices.
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research is developing low-cost sensor-based technologies scalable for mass consumption crops like cereals, pulses, and rice. While currently employed in horticulture by the private sector, the plan is to expand the usage of this technology, enhancing efficiency in resource utilization.
Jammu & Kashmir has taken an early step in this direction, approving a ₹30 crore sensor-based smart agriculture project earlier this year. This project leverages hi-tech poly houses, integrating IoT and automation to monitor microclimatic parameters for cash crop cultivation. As the government pioneers these initiatives, the integration of smart sensors on farms heralds a new era in resource-efficient and sustainable agricultural practices.
