Potential and Pitfalls of Using Drone Technology in Sustainable Agriculture: An Overview
2025
Rishikesavan, S. | Kannan, P. | Pazhanivelan, S. | Kumaraperumal, R. | Sritharan, N. | Muthumanickam, D. | Mohamed Roshan Abu Firnass, M. | Venkatesh, B.
Drones have emerged as a promising technology in precision agriculture, supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by enhancing sustainable farming practices, improving food security, and reducing environmental impact. This review article is intended to meticulously analyze the multiple applications of drone technology in agriculture, such as crop health monitoring, pesticide and fertilizer spraying, weed control, and data-driven decision-making for farm optimization. It emphasizes the role of drones in precision spraying, promoting targeted interventions, and minimizing environmental impact compared to conventional methods. Drones play a vital role in weed management and crop health assessment. The paper focuses on the importance of data collected by drones to acquire the necessary information for decision-making concerning irrigation, fertilization, and overall farm management. However, using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in agriculture faces challenges caused by batteries and their life, flight time, and connectivity issues, particularly in remote areas. There are legal challenges whereby regulatory frameworks and restrictions are present in different regions that affect the operation of drones. With the help of continuous research and development initiatives, the challenges depicted above could be solved, and the fullest potential of drones can be tapped for achieving Sustainable Agriculture.
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