Drones to analyse agri data

Pithapuram: The Reliance Foundation identified Mangiturti in Pithapuram and Burugupudi in Korukondamandal to conduct an aerial study of crops through drones, with the help of satellite imagery and provide scientific analyses of crops to aid the distressed farmer. On Monday, it conducted analysis using drones at Mangiturti. 

The drones capture images of the fields with very powerful cameras and transmit them to computer for the overall analysis featuring the status of chlorophyll, stem, plant health, pests incident upon them, irrigation facility, deficiency of mineral and micronutrient, requirement of fertilisers and pesticides. 

They cover vast area, which is impossible for scientists to cover in one day, and relay the photos. Scientists find the drones are quite handy in getting the horticultural crops analysed. It is the first ever application of cameras mounted on drones in the district. On Monday, the drone analysed lady finger, bitter gourd, sorghum, brinjal, marigold, jasmine, plantain and other gardens. 

The Reliance Foundation scientists analyse the imagery and identify problems in soil fertility and recommend the application of fertilisers under irrigated conditions to the farmer. A red line in the imagery indicates water scarcity in the area.

The analysis also indicates the extent of chlorophyll. Besides the computer analysis, the imagery also transmitted to agriculture scientists, who give their expert advice. After 20 days, the drones carry out another analysis for comparison with the earlier data. 

Reliance Foundation project manager Peddi Raju said that the Reliance Foundation advises on how to improve the horticulture yield, on the application of pesticides and fertilisers and other aspects.  

Along with Peddi Raju, assistant project manager B Nageswara Rao said that the Reliance Foundation is helping farmers in 200 villages in agriculture and animal husbandry. He said that the project would be extended to all over the district on the basis of the pilot project’s results.

By Saride Nageswara Rao