CPCRI launches device for targeted delivery of agrochemicals in coconut, arecanut palms
The ICAR-CPCRI has launched the 'Kalpa Smart Pole,' a device designed for the precise, ground-operated application of bioagents and agrochemicals to coconut and arecanut palms. This innovation eliminates the need for manual climbing and improves efficiency in managing pests and diseases like lethal bud rot.
Why it matters
It enhances agricultural safety and productivity by automating labor-intensive tasks in plantation management.
The Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (ICAR-CPCRI), Kasaragod, Keralam, under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), launched the Kalpa Smart Pole on Monday for the targeted delivery of bioagents and agrochemicals in coconut and arecanut palms.
The ground-operated Kalpa Smart Pole was developed for the precise delivery of bioagents or agrochemical sachets to the spear leaf region of palms for managing insect pests and diseases, according to K. Balachandra Hebbar, Director, ICAR-CPCRI.
The system is equipped with a camera mounted on top of the pole and a hand-operated tablet, enabling real-time visualisation of the spear leaf region during the targeted delivery of bioagents or agrochemicals.
The Smart Pole can accommodate 16 coir pith cakes and 10 agrochemical sachets, enabling targeted delivery to eight and five coconut/arecanut palms, respectively, in a single operation.
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