The Karur district cooperative department has purchased three modern agricultural drones in a major step aimed at easing the problems faced by farmers. This initiative came about in response to the high costs and labor shortages that farmers face when applying pesticides and fertilizers. District Collector M. Thangavel recently showcased these drones at a gathering, highlighting their potential to change farming practices in the region.
Affordable technologies for modern agriculture
Farmers in Karur have long relied on drones rented from private companies for spraying. However, the exorbitant costs, often around Rs 1,200 per hour, have become a financial burden. Addressing these issues, the cooperative department has used the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) to procure drones, which will now be available on rent at a reduced rate of Rs 800 per hour. This significant cost reduction aims to make drone technology more accessible to farmers, increasing efficiency and productivity.
Joint Registrar of Cooperative Division Karur P. Kantaraja highlighted that the drones equipped with modern sensors will be distributed through the Primary Agricultural Credit Cooperative Society (PACCS) located in Inungur, Kallai and Sinthalawady. These drones can cover an acre of farmland in about one hour, ensuring timely and effective application of pesticides and fertilizers. To further support farmers, drone training sessions will be conducted to enable users to fully utilize the technology.
Future of Agriculture in Karur
This initiative by the Karur Cooperative Department is a forward-thinking approach to solving modern agricultural challenges. By reducing costs associated with drone rentals and providing necessary training, the department is not only addressing the labor shortage but also fostering a culture of technology adoption among farmers. The use of drones in agriculture is expected to increase crop yields, reduce labor dependency, and promote sustainable farming practices.
As farmers in Karur district begin to integrate drone technology into their operations, the potential for increased productivity and efficiency is becoming increasingly clear. The move sets a precedent for other regions, demonstrating how collaborative efforts and modern technology can work together to solve agricultural problems.
The procurement of agricultural drones by the Karur cooperative department marks a significant step towards modernizing farming practices in the region. By making drone technology accessible and affordable, this initiative is helping farmers overcome labor shortages and improve crop management. As the project progresses, it is expected to serve as a model for other areas, highlighting the critical role technology plays in shaping the future of agriculture.
