How Drone Technology is Transforming Cashew Farming

Drone technology is leading the way in the paradigm shift that is occurring in the agricultural industry. Recently, the Directorate of Cashew Research (DCR) in Puttur, Dakshina Kannada, marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of its state-of-the-art Drone Technology Laboratory and a new Horticulture Laboratory. 

This project promises to revolutionize plantation crop research and development, promoting innovative farming methods and improving sustainability.

A Glimpse into the Future of Agriculture

The Drone Technology Laboratory, inaugurated by Himanshu Pathak, Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education, and Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, is designed to revolutionize how we approach farming. 

With support from the Union Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, this advanced facility offers innovative tools to explore Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) applications for plantation crops.

The facility is a vibrant centre for smart farming research, equipped with the latest drones and data processing equipment. Not only are drones convenient, but they also boost productivity, boost agricultural yields, and lessen the environmental effect of conventional farming practices. 

From surveying large fields to applying fertilizers and pesticides with precision, drones are set to transform the agricultural landscape, and the new laboratory at DCR is the perfect platform to test and implement these groundbreaking technologies.

Also read: India’s drone revolution: 6 years of progress

Bridging Research and Bioactive Components

Alongside the drone technology facility, the DCR has also launched a Centre of Excellence focused on profiling and studying bioactive components found in cashew plants. 

The aim is to explore the wealth of phytochemicals present in cashew apples, kernels, shells, and leaves, which have long been recognized for their health benefits.

With state-of-the-art equipment such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS), and UV-visible spectrophotometers, the center will conduct in-depth analysis of these natural compounds. 

Understanding the bioactive elements in cashew plants could lead to groundbreaking discoveries in nutrition, health, and even new commercial products.

Also read: How drones are impacting our daily lives

Value-Added Innovation: Cashew Sprout Cookies

The invention of cashew sprout cookies, a new value-added product, is among the most intriguing developments coming out of the DCR. This nutritious snack, created by scientist Veena G.L., is high in protein and vital minerals including phosphorus, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. This product is unique since it only has the healthful goodness of cashew sprouts and no refined flour, artificial coloring, or additional flavorings.

The product was licensed to Radhakrishna, the owner of Nidhi Food Products in Puttur, on the occasion of the laboratory's opening. This marks a significant step in the commercialization of agricultural innovations, showcasing how research can be directly translated into products that benefit consumers and enhance the agricultural value chain.

Pioneering Research and Knowledge Transfer

J. Dinakara Adiga, Director of ICAR-DCR, emphasized the institute’s ongoing commitment to research and technology transfer. The DCR is not just focused on lab-based research; it is dedicated to ensuring that its innovations reach farmers and communities on the ground. 

By fostering strong relationships between research institutions, local businesses, and farmers, the DCR aims to improve agricultural practices, increase productivity, and promote sustainable farming in the region.

 

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