Drone Usage in Agriculture Receives Strong Support from Andhra Pradesh CM

Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has emphasized the significant role of drones in the agricultural sector and directed officials to utilize them for soil testing purposes at the Rythu Bharosa Kendras (RBKs).

During a review of the Agricultural Department's activities at his camp office in Tadepalli, near here, on Friday, Jagan Mohan Reddy highlighted the benefits of using drones for soil testing, including the successful implementation of the Plant Doctor concept and accurate estimation of productivity with reliable data.

While drones are currently employed for pesticide spraying, the Chief Minister suggested that they can serve multiple purposes to provide enhanced assistance to farmers. He called for equipping all 10,000 RBKs with drones to facilitate their operations effectively.

Jagan Mohan Reddy also proposed the production of more audio-visual programs on cultivation methods, which can be broadcasted through the RBK channel for the benefit of farmers. These programs aim to educate farmers about innovative techniques and best practices in agriculture.

The Chief Minister expressed the importance of promoting various horticultural crops used in food processing. To encourage horticulture farmers, he stressed the need for additional cold storage rooms, warehouses, and collection centers. In addition to paddy, Jagan Mohan Reddy urged the RBKs to procure other crops and play a vital role in marketing them.

Furthermore, he emphasized the establishment of food processing units for onions and tomatoes in constituencies with substantial cultivation of these crops. The Chief Minister also highlighted the significance of empowering women by encouraging them to establish secondary food processing units. They can receive loans under the YSR Cheyuta scheme, which promotes self-sufficiency among women.

Agriculture Minister K. Govardhan Reddy, Agri Mission Vice-Chairman M.V.S. Nagi Reddy, Adviser to Government I. Tirupal Reddy (Agriculture), and Chief Secretary K.S. Jawahar Reddy were among the officials present at the meeting.