New AI platform will connect farmers and scientists over phone, aid in pest control

New AI platform will connect farmers and scientists over phone, aid in pest control

Subject: Science and Tech

Sec: Agriculture

Context:

The Union Government launched the AI-based National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) that will help farmers to connect with agriculture scientists and experts on controlling pests using their phone.

Aim of NPSS:

• The aim of NPSS is to reduce the dependence of farmers on pesticide retailers and inculcate a scientific approach among them towards pest management.
• NPSS will analyse the latest data on pests using AI tools to help farmers and experts in pest control and management.
• If we know the pest attack immediately and at the beginning of the attack, it will help in This system will help in identifying the pests and controlling it.
• The Centre envisages connecting scientists with the fields using the platform. Farmers can take photos of the infested crops or the insect using the NPSS platform.
• This system cures the diseases at proper time using technology. It will help in accurate diagnosis and accurate treatment. This will build the confidence among farmers and production will also increase. It will save the soil too. It is a technological platform and it needs no additional funding.

National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS):

• The NPSS is an AI-based platform launched by the government on August 15, 2024.
• It is designed to help farmers connect with agricultural scientists and experts for effective pest control using their phones.
• It aims to reduce farmers’ dependence on pesticide retailers.
• It provides data for selected crops i.e. Rice, Cotton, Maize, Mango and Chilies.