CSIR Launches Innovative Smart Agro-Technology Initiative to Boost Farmer Income

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has embarked on a mission to revolutionize agriculture in south India by developing cutting-edge smart agro-technologies in a groundbreaking move. The initiative aims to enhance soil health, increase productivity, and ultimately improve the income of farmers. The project involves the use of advanced technologies such as automation, sensors, drones, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) gadgets, paving the way for a futuristic approach to farming.

The CSIR's mission focuses on creating region-specific smart agro-technologies, starting with paddy fields in south India and later expanding to other crops. The project aims to gather real-time data on soil health and crop conditions using Internet of Things (IoT) based sensors and drone-based hyper and multi-spectral imaging. This information will be crucial in developing a precise database, providing insights into phenological and physiological indicators influenced by the micro-environment of different crops across various agro-climatic conditions in the country.

For this mission, scientists and technologists from CSIR institutes in Bengaluru, Jammu, and Ludhiana have identified specific paddy fields in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. The chosen areas will be monitored using technologies such as soil Optix for soil health mapping and UAVs equipped with multispectral imaging for crop health monitoring.

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The gathered data will contribute to the development of improved crop-specific agrotechnologies. By optimizing mineral nutrition, irrigation, and crop management, the project aims to enhance soil and plant health, implement effective pest-disease management, and achieve sustainable crop yields. The mission also involves the preparation of high-definition nutrient and texture maps of the soil, which will be used for precise fertilizer application using UAVs and granular fertilizer applicators.

One of the key aspects of the project is the use of multi-spectral imaging to identify areas of stress, disease, and pest infestation. This targeted information allows for timely interventions, keeping farmers informed about crop phenological and physiological events. Armed with this knowledge, farmers can make informed decisions regarding their crops, leading to the precise management of inputs, increased productivity, and profitability, while minimizing environmental impact.

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The project incorporates crop modeling and predictive analytics to develop phenological-cum-disease surveillance and mitigation interventions. This strategic approach aims to significantly enhance paddy yield both quantitatively and qualitatively. The continuous monitoring of paddy fields through drone-based imaging and real-time soil health assessments will be an ongoing process for the next two or three years.

Once successfully implemented in paddy fields, the technologies developed under this initiative will be extended to other crops such as saffron, apple, gerbera, mints, lemongrass, etc. The selection of these crops is based on economic value, geographical expanse, and their potential to transform the income situation of farmers, taking into account both production challenges and opportunities.

Senior scientists from CSIR are leading the efforts to ensure the success of this ambitious mission. By focusing on the economic significance and potential impact on farmers' income, CSIR's initiative stands poised to bring about a transformative change in the agricultural landscape of south India.

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