Farmers Awareness and Perception of Drone Technology

Abstract

The agricultural sector is increasingly leveraging technological advancements to enhance productivity and sustainability. Among these innovations, drone technology, a crucial component of precision agriculture, is gaining global recognition. This study explores the current awareness and perception of drone technology among farmers in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu, where agriculture continues to be a critical livelihood source. Using an ex-post facto research design, the study sampled 60 farmers from various regions within Coimbatore district, selected through a simple random sampling technique to assess their awareness and perception of drone technology. Data were collected through structured interviews and questionnaires, analyzed using statistical tools like frequency, percentage analysis and mean score is to understand response patterns. The findings reveal that awareness of drone technology is highest for its use in spraying agrochemicals (75 per cent), followed by pest and disease control (68 per cent) and irrigation management (66 per cent). Farmers expressed positive perceptions of the efficiency and precision that drones bring to farming operations, particularly in reducing labor and time spent on manual tasks. Drones were recognized for their potential to improve crop health monitoring, optimize resource use, and promote sustainability by minimizing chemical overuse. Nonetheless, logistical challenges such as the durability of drones in extreme weather conditions, connectivity issues in rural areas, and maintenance costs pose significant obstacles to widespread adoption. While government initiatives, including subsidies have begun to alleviate some financial burdens, there is a clear need for further support in terms of training, infrastructure, and policy enhancements. The study underscores the importance of integrating drones into the agricultural sector to ensure more sustainable and productive farming practices that can meet the growing global food demand.