CSIR Aims To Boost Agriculture Productivity in South India Through Smart Technologies

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has initiated a mission to develop region-specific smart agro-technologies tailored for paddy cultivation in South India. This effort aims to not only improve soil health and crop productivity but also enhance the income of farmers. As part of this mission, advanced technologies like IoT-based sensors, drones, and Artificial Intelligence gadgets will be utilised to create a real-time precision database, paving the way for a future where automation plays a vital role in agriculture.

Crop Monitoring with IoT and Drones

The core of the mission revolves around the use of Internet of Things (IoT) based sensors and drone-based hyper and multi-spectral imaging. These technologies will generate real-time data on phenological and physiological indicators, influenced by the micro-environment of various crops. The mission focuses on understanding the diverse agro-climatic conditions across the country, ensuring the development of region-specific solutions.

Farming in Action

A collaborative effort by scientists and technologists from CSIR Fourth Paradigm Institute, Bengaluru, CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine Jammu, and CSIR-Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute, Ludhiana, has identified paddy fields in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka for the mission. Real-time data on soil and crop health indicators will be collected using advanced technologies such as soil optix and multispectral imaging through UAVs, fostering precision farming practices.

Crop-Specific Agrotechnologies

The outcome of the project is expected to revolutionise crop-specific agro-technologies. Through optimisation of mineral nutrition, irrigation, real-time crop management, and agronomic practices, the mission seeks to enhance soil and plant health. The collected data will serve as a baseline for mapping soil health and creating high-definition nutrient and texture maps. Variable rate precise fertiliser application using UAVs and granular fertiliser applicators is envisioned, promising improved yields while minimising environmental impact.

The integration of multi-spectral imaging will enable the identification of stress, disease, and pest-infested areas, facilitating targeted interventions. Paddy growers will benefit from a comprehensive understanding of crop events, enabling timely and precise decision-making.