Robotics In Agriculture | Science & Technology for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Introduction

The integration of robotics in agriculture has led to advancements in various areas, with applications primarily falling into four major categories:

Crop and Soil Monitoring

• Sensor-Based Technology: Companies employ sensors and IoT-based technologies to continuously monitor the health of crops and soil.
• Precise Nutrient Management: Smart machines like the Green Seeker sensor analyze plant needs and administer the exact amount of fertilizer or herbicides required.

Predictive Agricultural Analytics

• AI and Machine Learning: Utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning tools to predict optimal planting times, detect potential risks from pests, and optimize farming practices.

Supply Chain Efficiencies

• Real-Time Data Analytics: Utilizing real-time data from various sources to enhance supply chain management, ensuring efficient and intelligent logistics.

Agricultural Robots

• Autonomous Farming: Developing and programming autonomous robots to perform critical agricultural tasks, such as crop harvesting, at higher volumes and speeds compared to human labor.

Examples of Agricultural Robots

• Green Seeker Sensor: This device uses sensors to gauge plant requirements and precisely apply fertilizer or herbicides.
• Robot Drone Tractors: Revolutionizing farming by autonomously deciding planting locations, harvest times, and optimal routes for farming equipment.
• Flying Robots for Fertilizer Application: Flying robots monitor crop conditions and independently apply fertilizers.
• Fruit Picking Robots: Ongoing research aims to develop robots capable of picking fruit without causing damage, often using suction grippers.
• Robot Cattle Grazing and Automatic Milking: Automation of dairy animal milking, reducing the need for human labor.

Scope of Farm Robots in India

• Precision Farming Needs: Robotic and pneumatic mechanisms are required for precision farming in India.
• Weed Control and Organic Farming: Robots can reduce herbicide usage and aid in organic farming by controlling weeds and transplanting seedlings.
• Remote Operation: Rural inventors are developing electric motors that can be operated remotely via cell phones, addressing irregular power supply issues.

Advanced Intelligent Machines in Farming

Sensor Integration: Advanced machines and sensors, along with handheld PDAs, contribute to enhanced computation and accuracy in farming.

Challenges in the Agricultural Sector in India

• Decreasing Farming Population: A declining number of farmers in India due to perceived lack of profitability and increasing risks.
• Youth Disinterest: The challenges and disadvantages of farming make it unattractive to young individuals.

Conclusion

Robotics has the potential to revolutionize agriculture, though challenges exist in terms of feasibility, sustainability, and efficiency in meeting global food needs. The adoption of robotics and digital mechanization by farmers, agri-businesses, and consumers will shape the future of the agricultural industry.