Bishalgarh: In a major step toward modernizing agricultural practices, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Sepahijala, CAU (I), Latiacherra, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Government of Tripura, has introduced drone technology for pest and disease management in farmers’ fields across the Bishalgarh agricultural subdivision.

The demonstration programme, held on Thursday at Bishalgarh Municipal Council, Chandan Nagar Gram Panchayat under Bishalgarh RD Block, aimed to showcase how drones can make pest control faster, safer, and more efficient. Around 50 farmers attended the event, which highlighted how precision spraying through drones can reduce pesticide use, cut labor costs, and limit health risks from direct exposure to agrochemicals.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Bishalgarh MLA Sushanta Deb, Chairman of Bishalgarh Panchayat Samiti Atashi Das, Deputy Director of Agriculture (Sepahijala) Dr. Bibhas Kanti De, Superintendent of Agriculture (Bishalgarh) Ar Himanish Laskar, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Sepahijala Dr. Shatabhisa Sarkar, SMS (Agronomy) Dr. Joy Kumar Dey, and Agriculture Sector Officer Ar Prabir Datta.

Officials noted that timely and effective pest control has been a long-standing challenge, especially in paddy fields affected by drought-like conditions. The use of drones, they said, can transform this scenario by enabling rapid and uniform spraying over large areas.

Beyond demonstrations, the initiative also includes provisions for training and licensing, ensuring that farmers can learn to operate drones independently and responsibly.

The programme was conducted under the guidance of Dr. Anupam Mishra, Vice-Chancellor of CAU, Imphal, with support from Dr. A.K. Mohanty, Director, ICAR-ATARI Zone VII, Umiam; Prof. Ph. Ranjit Sharma, Director of Extension Education, CAU (I), Manipur; Prof. Arun Bhai Patel, Dean, College of Fisheries, CAU (I), Lembucherra; and Dr. Shatabhisa Sarkar, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Sepahijala.

Officials said the introduction of drones marks a decisive shift toward sustainable and technology-driven agriculture in Tripura, paving the way for improved productivity and reduced environmental impact.