The Introduction of Agri Drone Spraying Centres in Karnataka.

In a significant stride towards modernising agriculture, Karnataka’s Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, and IT & BT, Mr Priyank Kharge, announced the launch of Agri Drone Spraying Centres in Karnataka in Kalaburagi district. Unveiled at the hobli level in Revoor B, Udagi, Nalwar, and Kamlapur, this initiative is hailed as a groundbreaking endeavour designed to enhance the agricultural practices of small and marginal farmers in the region.

The introduction of these centres marks a pioneering step in the utilisation of advanced technology within the Indian agricultural sector. As Mr Kharge explained, the project has seen the procurement of 34 advanced machines, comprising 16 agriculture drones, 15 battery-operated three-wheelers, and three generators. This cutting-edge technology aims to address several critical issues faced by the agricultural community, particularly the persistent labour shortages. By adopting drone technology, farmers can reduce their reliance on manual labour, thereby addressing a significant bottleneck in productivity and efficiency.

Moreover, the deployment of agriculture drones presents significant health and safety benefits for farmers. Traditional methods of pesticide application often expose farmers to harmful chemicals, posing serious health risks. By utilising drones for spraying, direct exposure to pesticides is minimised, ensuring better safety standards. The precision that drones offer also results in optimal use of pesticides and fertilisers, aligning with the principles of precision farming. This not only reduces crop losses and enhances yield but also promotes environmentally sustainable farming practices.

Mr Kharge highlighted the affordability aspect of this initiative, noting that the drone services will be available to farmers on a rental basis. This cost-effective approach ensures that financial constraints do not hinder small and marginal farmers from accessing the latest agricultural technology. The ease of access is further enhanced as farmers can obtain these services through online platforms or by using QR codes, streamlining the process and bringing technology closer to those in remote areas.

The vision extends beyond the immediate implementation in the four hoblis. According to Mr Kharge, there are plans to expand this initiative across all 32 hoblis in Kalaburagi district. This widespread deployment promises to revolutionise agriculture at a grassroots level, empowering farmers with the tools necessary for modern farming and ensuring that technological advancements benefit even the most isolated communities.

In the broader context, such advancements in agriculture underscore the transformative shifts occurring nationwide. As the logistics sector also experiences growth—forecasted to reach 14.4% of the GDP—technology continues to pave the way for India’s economic aspirations, including its ambitious goal of becoming a USD 26 trillion economy by FY48.

This focus on agriculture technology in Karnataka aligns perfectly with these national goals, ensuring that the state’s farmers are not left behind in the country’s trajectory towards enhanced economic and technological development. As Minister Kharge’s initiative gains traction, the potential for increased yields, reduced wastage, and improved livelihood for farmers becomes increasingly attainable, heralding a new era of agricultural prosperity in Karnataka.