Tamil Nadu Farmers Urge Govt to Introduce Drone Training Programs

The farmers have strongly recommended that the Agriculture Department acquire drones and make them available to fellow farmers for rent at reasonable rates. Additionally, they are advocating for the implementation of training initiatives to equip skilled youth with the knowledge and skills to operate these drones, with a particular focus on training programs facilitated by Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

In Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu, farmers are making a compelling case for the Agriculture Department to launch training programs specifically designed to teach proficient young individuals to operate drones.

The primary objective behind this proposal is to combat labor shortages in agriculture while simultaneously harnessing the potential of state-of-the-art technology for farming applications.

Farmers who practice direct sowing of paddy, an essential crop in the region, require a substantial workforce to work in unison on their fields. However, they have been grappling with a shortage of labor due to the simultaneous implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme during the paddy sowing season. This government scheme provides unskilled employment opportunities, which many workers opt for.

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The farmers have made a compelling plea to the Department of Agriculture and have requested the department to purchase drones and make them available to farmers at affordable rental rates.

Some farmers have already used drones to sow paddy seeds, renting equipment from private agencies at a cost of ₹550 to ₹600 per hour. Drones streamline the process, reduce seed inputs, and cut costs. However, hourly charges for drone deployment are high.

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Furthermore, they are calling for the establishment of training programs for capable young individuals to operate these drones. These training programs, which they propose to be conducted through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVK), will not only empower the youth with valuable skills but also aid in relieving the labor shortage issue in the region's farms.

The farmer's vision is to improve their livelihoods and contribute to the region's agricultural progress. With support from the Department of Agriculture and the State government, this initiative has the potential to revolutionize farming practices.

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