Tura, Nov 12: In a pioneering step toward sustainable and tech-driven agriculture, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), NECTAR Shillong, Akin Analytic, Smart Village Movement (SVM), and Agri-PMU, conducted a drone-based biofungicide spraying trial to manage bud rot disease in arecanut plantations at Chikasingre and Teksragre villages in West Garo Hills on November 11 and 12.
Bud rot, caused by Phytophthora species, has long been one of the most devastating diseases affecting arecanut cultivation, especially in the humid regions of Garo Hills. The disease spreads rapidly during the monsoon, leading to severe yield losses. Traditional spraying methods are often labour-intensive, time-consuming, and fail to reach the upper canopy—where infections usually begin.
To address these challenges, the trial introduced agricultural drones equipped with precision spraying systems, capable of delivering uniform biofungicide coverage over tall and dense arecanut trees. Four infected orchards—two each in Chikasingre and Teksragre—were selected for the demonstration under the supervision of Agriculture Department officials.
Preliminary observations showed uniform droplet distribution and efficient canopy coverage. Data on spray efficiency, disease suppression, and cost-effectiveness are being analysed to assess the feasibility of scaling up the technology.
Officials noted that if proven effective, the initiative could transform disease management practices in plantation crops, blending cutting-edge drone technology with traditional farming knowledge to promote sustainable and efficient agriculture across the state.
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