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Definition, Concepts, Techniques and Issues of Precision Agriculture.pdf
The document outlines the definition, history, and techniques of precision farming, emphasizing its importance in optimizing agricultural productivity through technology. It details various practices and tools such as GPS, GIS, and remote sensing that enable site-specific management and variable rate application of inputs. Additionally, it discusses the challenges and recent developments in precision agriculture in India, including government initiatives and the adoption of innovative technologies.
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Overview of Precision Agriculture, including definitions, concepts, and course instructors.
Precision Farming focuses on the targeted application of inputs to enhance crop productivity and eco-friendliness.
Use of technologies like GPS, sensors, and GIS in precision farming to manage variability in crop production.
The emergence of precision farming in India focusing on technology adoption since the early 2000s.
Key milestones since 2005 including government initiatives and the increasing adoption of advanced technologies.
Discusses ongoing challenges in precision farming such as technology costs and rural connectivity issues.
Reasons for precision farming, emphasizing efficiency, productivity, and maximizing land use.
Introduction of essential concepts such as SSM, VRT, and the importance of IoT in precision agriculture.
Outlines specific techniques like soil mapping and crop monitoring that enhance precision farming.
Necessary components including soil characteristics, micro-climate data, and equipment for effective PF.
Outlines economic and environmental benefits of precision farming including yield improvements and reduced input costs.
Steps involved in precision farming focusing on assessing and managing field variations.
Discussion of tools employed in precision farming including technology specifications.
The role of GPS technology in mapping and managing agricultural tasks effectively.
Application of GIS and remote sensing technologies for effective agricultural management and analysis.
VRT allows targeted application of inputs based on specific field needs for optimized yield.
Explains micro-irrigation systems and site-specific crop management to increase irrigation efficiency.
Importance of soil mapping using modern sensors for enhancing precision agriculture practices.
Significance of IoT and AI in enabling farmers to manage agricultural processes through data.
Overview of recent developments in precision agriculture initiatives and government investments in India.
Recent advancements including drone technology, satellite data, and AI applications in farming.
Recent progressive measures in precision agriculture focusing on technology and sustainability.
Challenges such as high costs, need for technical skills, and issues related to technology access.
Issues surrounding precision farming including costs, technical knowledge, and practicality for small farms.
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Definition, Concepts, Techniques and Issues of Precision Agriculture.pdf
- 1. Definition, Concepts, Techniquesand Issues of Precision Agriculture Geoinformatics and Nanotechnology and Precision Farming 2(1+1) Course Teachers Dr. M. KUMARESAN, Ph.D. (Hort.) School of Agriculture Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS) Pallavaram, Chennai - 600 117
- 2. Precision Farming (PF)- prƩcised application of inputs (Water, fertilizer, pesticides etc.) at the correct time to the crop for increasing its productivity and maximizing its yields Precision Farming is about doing the right thing, in the right place, in the right way, at the right time. This approach recognizes site-specific differences within fields and regulates management actions accordingly Managing crop production inputs such as water, seed, fertilizer etc. to increase yield, quality, profit, reduce waste and becomes eco-friendly - concept based on observing, measuring and responding to inter and intra-field variability in crops Precision Farming
- 3. ā¢ New technologiessuch as Global Positioning Systems (GPS), sensors, satellites or aerial images and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are utilized to assess and analyze variations in Agricultural and Horticultural production Precision farming actually is application of technologies and principles to manage spatial and temporal variability associated with all aspects of production (Pierce and Nowak, 1999) Precision Farming
- 4. History of precisionfarminginIndia The history of precision farming in India dates back to the early 2000s when the country began exploring ways to improve agricultural productivity through advanced technologies. While traditional farming practices were dominant, there was growing recognition of the need for more efficient and sustainable agricultural methods. Key Milestones in the History of Precision Farming in India: Early 2000s Introduction of Technology: Precision farming began to gain attention in India with the introduction of GPS technology and satellite imagery. In this period, the Indian government, along with research institutions, started exploring ways to use technology for better land management, irrigation systems, and crop monitoring.
- 5. HistoryofprecisionfarminginIndia 2005 National Initiative onPrecision Farming: The Government of India launched the National Mission on Precision Farming (NMPF), aiming to increase productivity and reduce input costs. The initiative focused on adopting satellite-based mapping and soil health management to improve crop yields. 2010s Growth in Adoption: The use of Global Positioning System (GPS), drones, and remote sensing technology began to increase. Pilot projects in states like Punjab, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh demonstrated the potential of precision farming in improving crop management and resource use efficiency. Research institutions like ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) started conducting studies and training programs to promote these technologies among farmers.
- 6. 2014-2015 Private Sector Involvement:Private companies and startups began offering technology- based solutions such as variable rate technology (VRT) for fertilizers, automatic irrigation systems, and data analytics platforms to help farmers make data-driven decisions. This period saw the rise of AgTech in India. Recent Developments Ongoing Challenges: Despite some progress, precision farming in India still faces challenges such as high technology costs, limited awareness, small landholdings, and poor internet connectivity in rural areas. However, ongoing efforts by the government, research bodies, and the private sector are focused on making these technologies more accessible to Indian farmers. HistoryofprecisionfarminginIndia
- 7. Need of precisionfarming For assessing and managing field variability: variable yields across the landscape because of variations to management practices For doing the right thing in the right place at the right time: After assessing the variability PF allows management decisions For higher productivity: Proper management practices, definitely increase the yield per unit of land For increasing the effectiveness of inputs: Increased productivity per unit of input used indicates increased efficiency of the inputs For maximum use of minimum land unit: After knowing the land status, a farmer tries to improve each and every part of land and uses it for the production purpose
- 8. Key Concepts inPrecision Agriculture Site-Specific Management (SSM): adjusting farming practices within a field, as soil quality, moisture, temperature, and crop conditions Variable Rate Technology (VRT): application of inputs at variable rates based on the needs Remote Sensing: helps in monitoring crop health, detecting pest infestations, or identifying soil issues Global Positioning System (GPS): Precise tracking of farm equipment for field mapping and soil sampling Geographic Information Systems (GIS): decision-making and planning the site-specific treatments for fields. Internet of Things (IoT) and Sensors: provide real-time data on soil moisture, temperature, weather conditions, and crop growth
- 9. Techniques in PrecisionAgriculture Soil Sampling and Mapping: Create detailed maps of soil properties Self-directed Machinery: Tractors, combines, and other farm equipment can be automated and guided by GPS systems Variable Rate Application (VRA): adjustment of input application on the go, in real-time, based on GPS data Crop Monitoring: Drones or satellites are used for remote sensing to monitor crop health, growth stages, and to detect pest or disease outbreaks Yield Mapping: Yield monitors on harvesters collect data on crop yield throughout the field Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI predict trends, optimize input usage, and enhance decision-making
- 10. Components of PrecisionFarming Crop Characteristics : Stage of crop, crop health, nutrient requirements etc Detailed soil layer with physical and chemical properties, depth, texture, nutrient status, salinity and toxicity, soil temperature etc. Micro-climate data (seasonal and daily) about crop canopy temperature, wind direction and speed, humidity etc. Surface and sub-surface drainage conditions, Irrigation facilities, water availability, and other planning inputs of interest Farm machinery and Equipments equipped with sensors
- 11. Benefits ā¢ Precision farmingnot only is potentially more economical, but it also reduces the amounts of chemicals released into the environment. Other benefits: ā¢ Improves crop yield and profit ā¢ Provides better information for making management decision ā¢ Provides more details & useful farm records ā¢ Reduces fertilizer costs ā¢ Reduces pesticide costs ā¢ Reduces pollution
- 12. Basic steps inprecision farming 1. Assessing variation 2. Managing variation and 3. Evaluation There are three important issues regarding precision agriculture evaluation: Crop science: by matching farming practices more closely to crop needs (e.g. fertilizer inputs) Environmental protection: by reducing environmental risks and footprint of farming (e.g. limiting leaching of nitrogen) Economics: by boosting effectiveness through more efficient practices (e.g. improved management of fertilizer usage and other inputs).
- 14. Tools in precisionfarming
- 15. Global Positioning System(GPS) In Precision Agriculture GPS refers to ground-based technology permitting growers to gather data with accurate location information in real-time. GPS is suitable for the following tasks: Mapping of irrigation systems, fields, and roads Detection of areas with problem plants Soil testing in specific field areas The tractor driving with a parallel steering system VRA for precise seed and fertilizer application
- 16. GIS Technology InPrecision Agriculture GIS in precision agriculture permits farmers to view records, such as soil survey maps and plant characteristics. Satellite images and aerial photographs provide additional information. Another handy feature of GIS is analyzing multiple farm management options by comparing and manipulating data layers. GIS + Remote Sensing In Precision Agriculture GIS in Remote Sensing technology allows growers to observe the yield health using satellite images. They provide up-to-date information on moisture stress, disease, structural anomalies, and nutrient levels. Modern PF satellite imagery has a high spectral resolution, allowing growers to get the most accurate data.
- 17. VRT In PrecisionAgriculture VRT - allows growers to apply fertilizer, chemicals, seeds, etc. to a different parts of a field depending on their needs. Also, farmers can test the soil for nutrients, such as nitrogen, and feed only those areas that lack certain nutrients. Yield Monitoring and Mapping In Precision Agriculture GPS and satellite remote sensing are used for providing data of landscape, earth, and weather . PF yield map, EOSDA Crop Monitoring functionality allows growers to effectively monitor the readiness of crops for harvest with the help of vegetation indices NDRE (Normalized Difference Red Edge) index is excellent for such purposes, which more clearly shows the state of vegetation in the later stages of cultureās development. It has to analyze the vegetation along with the entire depth of foliage
- 18. Micro Irrigation (DripIrrigation) A micro-irrigation system allows growers to effectively plan the fieldās irrigation by identifying areas with high or low soil moisture. Precision agriculture irrigation makes it possible to carry out variable rate irrigation (VRI) to vary the water supply volume for different field parts. This level of control can significantly improve irrigation efficiency and result in significant water savings. One of the indexes used in EOSDA Crop Monitoring is NDMI. Site-Specific Crop Management (SSCM) It is an agricultural management concept based on monitoring, counting, and reacting to crop variability between fields or within one area. Most current SSCM methods use accurate global positioning combined with site-specific measurements to quantify spatial changing field conditions. They are field data collection (such as pest presence) and remote sensing data (such as from satellites). EOSDA Crop Monitoring allows growers to use management zones in precision agriculture effectively. It can identify problem areas in a field with various possible pathogens: pests, fungus, fertilizer misuse, weeds, lack of moisture, etc. Once identifying a site with deviations, the farmer can send a scout to make a report based on the data collected during the inspection.
- 19. Soil Mapping InPrecision Agriculture Precision agriculture is impossible without quality ground mapping. With its help, farmers evaluate the soil properties, its chemical composition, the nutrientsā presence, etc. Soil mapping practice has existed for a long time, but modern technologies provide even more detailed information, making the new generation of digital maps more efficient. For obtaining data, farmers use several types of precision agriculture sensors: optical sensors interpret data based on the coefficient of reflection of light from the ground; electrochemical sensors analyze the soilās electrical characteristics, such as the potassiumās presence; mechanical sensors in contact with the ground determine the types and density of the elements present
- 20. IoT In PrecisionAgriculture IoT system gives farmers more control over the field with dedicated data sensors, remote control, and an IoT platform. With IoT based precision agriculture, growers can control all the most critical information: from air temperature to soil conditions Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning AI and precis agriculture are constantly being improved and provide new intelligent tools for managing agricultural production. Image-based pattern recognition systems allow applications to adjust the watering and nutrition of plants according to their type. For example, sprayers equipped with AI can recognize specific weeds and spray them without affecting the crops
- 21. Recent developments inprecision agriculture in India Government initiatives: Indian government is planning to invest Rs 6,000 crore in precision farming. This includes a Smart Precision Horticulture Programme that will cover 15,000 acres of land over five years. Apps: Automated FruitScout, AgriApp, Auravant, and xFarm are being used to support precision agriculture AI-powered robots: Cameras can scan the ground in real time to avoid spraying fertilizers Customized Leaf Colour Chart (CLCC): ICAR-National Rice Research Institute (NRRI) developed a low-cost CLCC for nitrogen management Tamil Nadu Precision Farming Project (TNPFF): This project, initiated in 2004-2005, was a key driver of drip irrigation.
- 22. Highlights of recentdevelopments in precision agriculture Drone Technology for Crop Monitoring Drones equipped with cameras and sensors are being used to monitor crop health, assess irrigation needs, and detect pest infestations. Satellite and Remote Sensing Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) provides satellite data for monitoring soil health, crop conditions, and water availability, aiding precision farming efforts across vast agricultural areas. IoT and Smart Sensors IoT-enabled soil sensors and weather stations help farmers optimize irrigation, monitor soil conditions, and apply fertilizers and pesticides more accurately, saving costs and resources. Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Decision Support AI is being used for predictive analytics, such as forecasting pest outbreaks, disease risks, and weather patterns. AI-driven apps also help with crop management advice and personalized recommendations.
- 23. Highlights of recentdevelopments in precision agriculture Smart Irrigation Systems Precision irrigation systems use data from soil sensors and weather forecasts to deliver the right amount of water Mobile Apps and Digital Platforms Platforms like eNAM and apps from agri-tech startups are empowering farmers with real-time information on weather, market prices, and government schemes, facilitating better decision-making. Variable Rate Technology (VRT) VRT systems are enabling farmers to apply fertilizers, pesticides, and water more precisely according to soil variability, reducing waste and improving crop yields. Government Support and Schemes Initiatives like PM-KISAN and eNAM are promoting digital solutions, financial support, and market access for farmers Sustainability Focus Precision agriculture practices, such as climate-smart agriculture and water-efficient technologies, are being adopted to increase resilience to climate change and reduce environmental impacts
- 24. Issues in PrecisionAgriculture High Initial Costs: Technology and equipment required for PF can be expensive Data Management and Integration: Collecting large amounts of data from various sources can be over lapping Technical Skills: Use of advanced technologies in PF requires technical expertise Connectivity Issues: Many PF technologies depend on internet connectivity Scalability: Implementing PF practices on a small farm may be possible, but scaling these technologies up to larger operations can be complex Access to Technology: Not all farmers have equal access to the technologies and tools
- 25. Drawbacks of precisionfarming High cost: It has proven difficult to determine the cost benefits of precision agriculture management. At present, many of the technologies used are in their initial stages, and pricing of equipment and services is costly Lack of technical expertise knowledge and technology: Success of PF depends largely on how well and how quickly the knowledge needed to guide the new technologies can be found (India spends only 0.3% of its agricultural Gross Domestic Product in Research and Development) Not applicable or difficult/costly for small land holdings Heterogeneity of cropping systems and market imperfections