ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation (ICAR-IISWC), Dehradun, celebrated Farmers’ Day at Achla-Fateu village in the Kalsi block. The event was organized under the institute’s Agri-Drone Project and Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP). It was held on the occasion of the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh, celebrated as Farmers’ Day.
Role of Drones in Agriculture
Dr. M. Muruganandam, Principal Scientist and TSP Coordinator at ICAR-IISWC, addressed the farmers at the IISWC headquarters, highlighting the transformative role of drones in agriculture. He explained that drones could facilitate various agricultural tasks, such as large-scale spraying in a short time, even in remote and elevated regions.
Dr. Muruganandam also stated that with technological advancements and increased production, drones would become more accessible and affordable for farmers and agricultural organizations, enabling their widespread use in rural and agricultural areas.
Cleanliness Drive and Importance of Hygiene
As part of the ongoing cleanliness drive, Dr. Muruganandam emphasized the importance of maintaining clean and healthy homes, animal shelters, and surrounding environments. He stressed that a clean and healthy environment helps prevent diseases, including zoonotic and reverse zoonotic infections, affecting both human and animal health.
Soil Quality and New Technologies
Dr. M. Shankar, Senior Scientist at IISWC, paid tribute to former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh and underscored the importance of adopting new technologies in agriculture. He highlighted the potential of agricultural drones and survey drones in improving farming practices and resource management. Additionally, he shared soil quality data for local farms and commended the farmers for maintaining excellent soil health through the use of organic fertilizers.
Environmental Conservation and Farmers’ Perspectives
Dr. Rampal, Senior Scientist at IISWC, spoke about the significance of Farmers’ Day and stressed the need to reduce the use of single-use plastics to protect the environment and natural water resources.
Progressive farmer and village head Chandan Singh Chauhan praised the drone demonstration and cleanliness initiatives, calling them inspiring steps toward enhancing agricultural productivity and promoting a healthy environment.
Drone Demonstration and Farmer Participation
The event concluded with a live demonstration of drone operations by Ravi Singh, Technical Assistant at IISWC. Around 75 farmers, including women farmers, actively participated in the program and gained practical insights into drone technology and sustainable farming practices.
The event was highly successful in empowering farmers and promoting environmental conservation by integrating technology and sustainability.
