Precision agriculture

Precision agriculture (PA) is a farming technique based on observing, measuring and responding to inter and intra-field variability (spatial and temporal) in crops.

How it is done: This is done by measuring real-time data on weather, soil and air quality, crop maturity and even equipment and labor costs and availability. This data is analyzed to make smarter decisions.

In PA, precise spatial and temporal information and management of inputs (seeds, fertilizers, water, irrigation techniques, pesticides etc.) is used to increase farm productivity, profitability, sustainability, environmental protection, food safety.

Precision agriculture (PA) is a holistic new and developing agricultural system that is progressively changing agriculture in the U.S. and around the world.

India’s Status: In India, currently 22 (PFDC) precision farming development centers collect and process data and advice farmers make the best decisions with regard to planting, fertilizing and harvesting crops. Also, they aim to promote research and extension activities in promotion of new technologies in agriculture.

At PFDC, the farmers are also provided an insight into fertilizers and weed management, drip irrigation, better harvesting practices, grading of produce and marketing tips.

Advantages: Precision agriculture management practices can significantly reduce the amount of nutrient and other crop inputs (water, pesticides, fertilizers, seeds etc.) used while boosting yields.

The techniques would boost yield and improve quality of the produce. Therefore, the farmers need not depend only on the local markets but could also send their produce to upcountry markets to get good prices.

Applying the right amount of inputs in the right place and at the right time benefits crops, soils and groundwater, and thus the entire crop cycle. Consequently, precision agriculture has become a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture.

Case study:Rajamani, a young farmer of Pullagoundanpudur village, Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu tried precision farming in growing vegetable crops like onion, chilli and turmeric in the red sandy loam soil. He spent Rs. 3,35,400 for cultivation practices and got high profit of Rs. 9,66,000 per hectare from turmeric, onion, chillies, coriander and red gram. He got this huge profit since he shifted from conventional farming to precision farming.