FMC Corporation, a prominent agricultural sciences business, announced the start of drone spraying services for farmers in India today.
The drone service, which has been approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the government organisation responsible for the regulation of air transport services in India, is intended to increase farm output while eliminating the need for human labour. The FMC India farmer app, which supports seven regional Indian languages, provides access to FMC's drone spraying services. The service is now accessible in Andhra Pradesh and will be available by the end of the month in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
"As technology continues to grow in the agriculture industry, drones are estimated to contribute 2% of total agricultural machinery investment in the country by the end of the year 2030. During the pilot phase, FMC will use our extensive global experience and expertise in drone application to help the Indian farming community. We intend to maximise our reach among Indian farmers in selected states over the first three months, and then expand to farmers across the country before the next Kharif season begins,” stated Ravi Annavarapu, President, FMC India.
Agricultural unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) provide more control over spray uniformity and coverage, as well as improved precision in the application of crop protection chemicals such as FMC's Coragen and Benevia insecticides. Each spray drone can treat 3-4 acres in 15-20 minutes, making spraying easier and more efficient. UAVs will also protect farmers against environmental hazards such as heat stroke.
"Our efforts have always been directed at delivering innovative solutions to farmers so that they can boost yields in a sustainable manner. To encourage rural entrepreneurship, we will give access to drone technology, training, and finance. Furthermore, the government's emphasis on modernising agriculture with technology while training necessary skills such as drone operations will assure broad adoption of precision agriculture. Indian agriculture is changing, and we believe drone services will play an important role in modernising agricultural methods. We take pride in being one of the pioneers of this service to the Indian farming community,” Annavarapu added.
