Precision / Smart Farming
Precision or Smart Farming means using modern technology to make farming more scientific and accurate — applying the right input, in the right amount, at the right time, in the right place.
It combines:
- Sensors (to check soil, moisture, and weather)
- GPS & Drones (to map and monitor the farm)
- Mobile Apps / AI tools (to guide farmers)
- Automatic irrigation (to save water)
- Data analysis (to plan fertilizers, seeds, pesticides)
Examples of Smart Farming Tools
| Tool / Technique | Use |
|---|---|
| Soil Sensor | Measures moisture, pH, nutrients — tells when to water or fertilize |
| Drones | Spray pesticides or capture crop health photos |
| Automatic Irrigation System | Waters plants automatically when soil is dry |
| Mobile Apps | Give weather alerts, fertilizer suggestions, and pest warnings |
| AI / Computer Tools | Predict yield, disease, or market prices |
Benefits for Farmers
Saves Water & Fertilizer — 30–50% savings using smart irrigation
Increases Crop Yield — up to 20–40% higher production
Reduces Labour & Time — automatic systems do the work
Protects Crops — early pest/disease warning
Increases Income — better crop, better market price
Eco-Friendly — less chemical use, more sustainable soil
Best Crops for Precision Farming in Villages
- Vegetables (Tomato, Chilli, Capsicum, Brinjal)
- Fruits (Banana, Mango, Papaya)
- Cash Crops (Sugarcane, Cotton)
- Pulses and Oilseeds
- Floriculture and Greenhouse Crops
Cost & Simple Setup Options
| Type | Tools | Approx. Cost | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Smart Setup | Moisture sensor + app | ₹5,000–₹15,000 | Small farmers |
| Medium Setup | Drip irrigation + sensors | ₹25,000–₹60,000 per acre | Progressive farmers |
| Advanced Setup | Drone + IoT sensors + automation | ₹2–5 lakh | Fps, large farmers |
Real Examples in Indian Villages
- Bihar Agricultural University (Sabour) – starting digital soil mapping to help farmers apply correct fertilizers.
- Kheti “Greenhouse-in-a-Box” – small greenhouses that grow vegetables using 90% less water.
- Fasal App – gives real-time weather and disease alerts for crops.
- Ag Next & Crop In – use AI to check crop quality and farm performance.
Start Precision Farming in Your Village
- Check Soil & Water — get soil tested (pH, nutrients).
- Select One Crop — start with high-value crop like tomato or chilli.
- Install Drip Irrigation — save water and labor.
- Add Moisture Sensor — get automatic irrigation alerts.
- Use Mobile App — for weather & pest alerts.
- Join FPO / Co-operative — share drone or machinery with others.
- Apply for Subsidy — through local agriculture office / Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK).
- Train & Expand — once results are good, expand to other crops.
Future of Precision Farming in Villages
- AI & Drone-based spraying will become common.
- Soil & weather data apps will help every small farmer.
- Women-led agritech groups will manage precision vegetable farming.
- Solar-powered IoT systems will make farming fully sustainable.