On December 23, 2024, the ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation (ICAR-IISWC), headquartered in Dehradun, organized a significant Kisan Diwas celebration at Echla-Fateu village, located in Kalsi Block. This event, a blend of technological innovation and environmental consciousness, was conducted under the Institute’s Agri-Drone Project and the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) Scheme to honor the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh, fondly observed as Kisan Diwas.
A Vision for the Future: Drones in Agriculture
The highlight of the event was a detailed presentation on the transformative role of drone technology in modern agriculture. Dr. M. Muruganandam, Principal Scientist and TSP Coordinator at ICAR-IISWC, provided an insightful address to the farmers, emphasizing how drones are revolutionizing traditional farming practices.
Dr. Muruganandam explained that drones have the potential to execute agricultural operations such as spraying fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides with precision, even in challenging terrains like high-altitude and remote areas. The adoption of drone technology, he noted, significantly reduces labor costs and operational time, making farming more efficient and sustainable. As advancements in technology drive down production costs, drones are expected to become increasingly accessible to small and medium-scale farmers. He encouraged farmers to embrace these innovations, as they represent a crucial step toward modernizing agriculture in rural India.
Promoting Swachhata in Agriculture and Beyond
The event also aligned with the broader Swachhata Pakhwada initiative, which underscores the importance of cleanliness in every aspect of life. Dr. Muruganandam stressed the critical need for maintaining hygienic conditions in homes, animal shelters, and surrounding areas. He elaborated on how cleanliness contributes to preventing the spread of diseases, including zoonotic and reverse zoonotic infections that affect both humans and animals. By fostering a clean environment, farmers can safeguard their families, livestock, and crops from health risks while improving overall productivity.
Tributes and Technological Advancements
Dr. M. Sankar, Senior Scientist at IISWC, paid homage to Chaudhary Charan Singh, whose visionary policies championed the cause of farmers and rural development. He highlighted the need for adopting cutting-edge technologies like Agri-Drones and Survey Drones, which not only optimize farming practices but also enhance resource management. Dr. Sankar shared critical soil quality data specific to the region, commending local farmers for their consistent use of organic fertilizers. This practice, he noted, has been instrumental in maintaining excellent soil health, ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
Dr. Rama Pal, another Senior Scientist at IISWC, delivered an impactful talk on the importance of Kisan Diwas as a day to honor the contributions of farmers. She urged the community to reduce the use of single-use plastics, a growing environmental concern. Dr. Pal emphasized that curbing plastic pollution is essential for conserving natural resources, particularly water bodies, which are vital for both agriculture and biodiversity.
Community Leadership and Farmer Empowerment
The event was graced by Shri Chandan Singh Chauhan, the progressive village Pradhan, who expressed his gratitude toward ICAR-IISWC for organizing such an educational and inspiring program. He applauded the drone demonstration and cleanliness initiatives, highlighting them as forward-thinking measures that would empower local farmers and improve agricultural practices. Shri ChauhanтАЩs enthusiasm reflected the broader communityтАЩs appreciation for the InstituteтАЩs efforts to bridge the gap between technology and traditional farming.
Hands-On Demonstration of Drone Technology
One of the most anticipated segments of the day was the live drone operation demonstration, led by Mr. Ravish Singh, Technical Assistant at IISWC. Farmers and farmwomen watched with great interest as the drones performed various tasks, showcasing their potential to revolutionize farming operations. From spraying fields with precision to capturing real-time data for better decision-making, the drones left a lasting impression on the attendees. The live demonstration provided an opportunity for participants to gain practical exposure to this cutting-edge technology.
Farmers as Custodians of Sustainability
The event witnessed active participation from approximately 75 farmers and farmwomen, who not only learned about drone technology but also engaged in discussions on sustainable agricultural practices. The program highlighted the importance of balancing technological advancement with environmental conservation, urging farmers to adopt methods that protect soil health, reduce waste, and promote biodiversity.
The Impact of Kisan Diwas 2024
This yearтАЩs Kisan Diwas celebration at Echla-Fateu village was more than just an event; it was a step toward transforming the agricultural landscape of the region. By introducing farmers to drones and emphasizing cleanliness and sustainability, ICAR-IISWC demonstrated its commitment to empowering the farming community with knowledge, technology, and environmental stewardship.
A Collaborative Future
The programтАЩs success underscores the importance of collaboration between scientific institutions and local communities. By working together, farmers and researchers can address pressing challenges such as labor shortages, environmental degradation, and the need for increased agricultural productivity. The introduction of drone technology and sustainable practices ensures that farmers are better equipped to meet the demands of a growing population while protecting their natural resources for future generations.
Kisan Diwas
The Kisan Diwas celebration at Echla-Fateu village was a shining example of how technology and tradition can coexist to create a brighter future for agriculture. The ICAR-IISWCтАЩs efforts to promote Agri-Drones and cleanliness practices highlighted the InstituteтАЩs dedication to supporting farmers while fostering environmental responsibility.
As India continues to modernize its agricultural sector, events like these play a pivotal role in empowering farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. The integration of drone technology, combined with a commitment to sustainability, holds the promise of a prosperous and environmentally conscious future for Indian agriculture.