The use of drones will significantly improve the ease of farming and Rajasthan Government is making concerted efforts for multifaceted use of drone technology – right from spraying of fertilizer to monitoring development and welfare projects – said the Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs & Culture Shri Arjun Ram Meghwalon Tuesday, on Syngenta’s Drone Yatra arrival in Rajasthan.
Demonstration of spraying with drone was given to more than 300 farmers while the Drone Yatra reached Bikaner to make them aware of this breakthrough technology. In a first-of-its kind initiative, Syngenta India had flagged off a Drone Yatra on July 15 from its Pune headquarters. It is scheduled to travel 10,000 kms, across 13 states to create awareness on drone spraying among 10,000 farmers. Syngenta is among the first few private players to get Central Government’s permission to use drones. The drone yatra has already travelled through Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
“Digitally driven agriculture is becoming the need of the hour. There is a huge scope for theuse of multiple applications in drone in farming in our State, which produces edible oil and oilseeds, pulses and coarse grains like variety of millets in abundance” said Shri Meghwalwhile speaking as the Chief Guest at a function held in Gusaisar village to mark the arrival of ‘Syngenta Drone Yatra.’
“Now we can see the benefits of latest technology in our fields and can experience the same with global pace and this drone technology would not only provide the employment to youths but also solve the paucity of labour and help in saving soil and environment as well, thanks to Syngenta to make this happen. This would also help in fulfilling the commitment of our honourable PM Sri Narendra Modi towards doubling the income of growers. The technology will increase their income by bringing down the cost of spraying besides preventing the crops from insects, flies and locusts”, Shri Meghwal added.
“It’s so encouraging to see that Rajasthan has not only shown interest but has also put in place a roadmap to drive agriculture technologically, which will make farming cost-effective and enhance farmers’ incomes. Technology like drones will increase yield, profitability, and sustainability of farming,” said Dr KC Ravi, Chief Sustainability Officer, Syngenta India.