Smart Precision Horticulture Programme

About Smart Precision Horticulture Programme:

• It uses smart technology such as Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence, drones and data analytics to boost production through maximal use of resources while minimising environmental impact.
• It will cover 15,000 acres of land in five years from 2024-25 to 2028-29 and is expected to benefit about 60,000 farmers.
  • At present, the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), launched during Covid-19, has provisions for financing infrastructure projects for smart and precision agriculture.
• Apart from offering financial support, the Centre is also considering collaborating with the Netherlands and Israel, where tech-based modern farming solutions are being used, through Centres of Excellences (CoEs).
• The Centre has also set up 22 Precision Farming Development Centres (PFDCs) across the country to test new technologies and modify them according to local needs.

Impacts of Smart and precision farming

• It maximises use of resources like water, fertilisers and pesticides to increase production quality and quantity.
• It also insulates farmers from vagaries of climate change and other uncertainties, besides ensuring sustainable farming.

Q1. What is the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)?

Ans. It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme implemented from 2014-15 for the holistic development of horticulture in the country, covering fruits, vegetables, root and tuber crops, mushrooms, spices, flowers, aromatic plants, coconut, cashew and cocoa

Source: Centre to invest Rs 6,000 crore in smart farming with AI, drones, and data to boost crop yields