ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (ICAR_CRIDA), Hyderabad demonstrated drone technology for various agricultural applications on 27th June 2023 at Hayatnagar Research Farm (HRF).

Timeliness & precision and Automation are prioritized areas in dryland agriculture for improving productivity and profitability. ICAR-CRIDA is actively engaged in advanced mechanization practices in rainfed areas.

ICAR-CRIDA has been identified as one of the institutes for “Drone technology application” under the Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanization, Department of Agriculture, and Farmers' Welfare. Dr. V. K. Singh, Director, CRIDA inaugurated the demonstration program at Hayatnagar Research Farm and advised the scientists to find ways of utilizing the drone technology for research & development activities such as monitoring crop conditions, pest & diseases damage identification, nutrient status of soil and precision farming practices. He emphasized the farm machinery scientist team to take the lead and help the other scientists to explore various utilities of drone technology in agricultural research programs. On this occasion, various subject matter scientists of CRIDA, KVK subject matter specialists, and research scholars participated. The program was concluded with a vote of thanks by Er. Ashish Dhimate.