In the heart of Nandyal district, a technological revolution is taking root, promising to transform the agricultural landscape of Andhra Pradesh. R&B Minister BC Janardhan Reddy, during a recent event in Kovelakuntla, Banaganapalle constituency, highlighted the state’s ambitious strides in integrating drone technology into agriculture, marking a significant shift towards making farming a more profitable venture.
The event, held on Monday, saw the distribution of agricultural machinery, with the Minister engaging directly with farmers to understand their experiences with drone technology. Reddy’s enthusiasm was palpable as he declared Andhra Pradesh a frontrunner in leveraging drones for agricultural purposes. “We are setting up a dedicated drone corporation and establishing a drone hub on 300 acres in Orvakal,” he announced, underscoring the state’s commitment to this technological leap. The proximity of an airport in Orvakal further sweetens the deal, with the government considering localised drone training programmes to empower youth and farmers in the region.
The implications of this technological adoption are vast. Farmers present at the event shared their positive experiences, noting that drone-based spraying can save them up to Rs 700 per acre. This is particularly beneficial for tall crops like maize, where manual spraying is challenging. Drones can effectively reach the inner parts of the field, reducing pest infestations and cutting down on expenses. This not only enhances productivity but also makes farming more profitable, a crucial factor in a state where agriculture is a significant economic driver.
Reddy also took the opportunity to critique the previous YSRCP-led government, alleging that no agricultural machines were distributed during their five-year tenure. He recalled the previous TDP regime’s efforts in providing farmers with “Rythu Rathalu” and tractors under a subsidy scheme. Allegations of irregularities in the tractor distribution process were also raised, with Reddy ordering an investigation into the matter.
The Minister’s visit and announcements signal a renewed focus on modernising agriculture in Andhra Pradesh. By equipping farmers with cutting-edge technology, the government aims to enhance productivity and profitability, ensuring a brighter future for the state’s agricultural sector. As drones take to the skies over Andhra Pradesh’s fields, they carry with them the promise of a more prosperous and technologically advanced agricultural landscape.
