Farmers in Erode district encouraged to use drones to spray pesticides on jasmine fields
The Hindu
A field study by the Bannari Amman Institute of Technology found that the drones helped cut costs, as well as the time taken to spray pesticides on jasmine fields in Sathyamangalam
Jasmine farmers in Sathyamangalam, Erode district, are being encouraged to use drones to spray pesticides over their fields, as this is both effective and reduces costs.
A team of professors and students from the Bannari Amman Institute of Technology in Sathyamangalam conducted a field study to spray insecticides/fertilizers in jasmine fields using drone technology. The team conducted several field trials, before finalising a standard operating procedure as well as the insecticide/water ratio needed for jasmine fields. The study reveals that the usage of drones in agri-fields is advantageous in the localized application of insecticides on jasmine leaves. Drone spraying solves the labour issue and reduces both the cost and time taken, compared to manual spraying.
The drones used for the trial run had 10 litre-capacities and could fly continuously for half an hour.
Krishnamoorthy, a farmer of Ramapailur village, said that small farmers who possess a few acres have been affected by labour shortage and the huge cost involved in manual spraying. “The amount of insecticide used through drone spraying is reduced 300ml/acre compared to the 750 ml/acre in manual spraying,” he said.
The Institute’s team members said that the new technology could be extended and optimized specially for sugarcane, coconut and areca nut plantations. They also said that by developing such standard operating procedures for specific plantations, agri-drones will be a helping hand for farmers in addressing the labour shortage and time issues. In addition, the health of the farmers is often affected by inhaling the toxic fertilizers during manual spraying, whereas such issues can be eliminated by the usage of agri-drone spraying. These drones will also be an effective business idea for entrepreneurs and budding engineers, they added.
For most patients with TB who are severely underweight, nutritional support is an essential and not optional part of treatment
Family of custodial death victims demands harsh punishment for nine convicted policemen to prevent future abuses of power.
Rajinikanth refutes TVK leader's claims about DMK threats preventing his political entry, expressing gratitude to supportive political figures.
CM announces Cabinet Sub-Committee on Musi rejuvenation; rehabilitation for all displaced
Ramanathapuram identifies 145 polling stations as sensitive, ensuring security with paramilitary forces ahead of assembly elections, says DEO.
BJP Puducherry president V. P Ramalingam files nomination for Raj Bhavan, joined by Union Minister Mandaviya and Khushbu Sundar.
History-sheeter 'Thoppai' Ganesh shot dead by police in Chennai after attacking officers during attempted escape.
The government plans to amend the FCRA, introducing new regulations for NGO asset management and accountability for key functionaries.
The draft policy for “Responsible Digital Use Among Students”, released on Monday by the Department of Health and Family Welfare, has recommended that parents set structured routines with clear screen-time rules and prioritise privacy, safety, and open conversation with children on digital well-being.
Police Observer Sushant Kumar Saxena conducts surprise inspection at Shencottai police station, reviewing warrants and security arrangements ahead of elections.
Andhra Pradesh government to launch key projects in April, focusing on industrial growth and infrastructure development, says Nara Lokesh.
Lok Sabha refers the Corporate Laws (Amendment) Bill to a JPC amid opposition concerns over CSR provisions dilution.
SHG members in Kanniyakumari use snakes and ladders to raise election awareness and boost voter turnout.