The identity of Assam is its tea. This state is known all over the world for the taste and quality of its tea. But with changing times, the tea industry is facing new challenges. Climate change, cost of production, labour shortage and market competition have created many difficulties for farmers. Solutions to these challenges are now being found through technology. Modern technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are giving a new direction to Assam's tea cultivation today. By adopting them, farmers are increasing their yield and making farming even smarter and sustainable.
A shift from traditional farming to modern farming
Earlier, the cultivation of tea was completely dependent on traditional methods. Farmers used to cultivate by relying on experience and weather. But uncertainty in the weather and changing soil conditions affected the yield. Many times farmers used water and manure based on estimates, which increased the cost and also affected the quality.
Now this situation is changing with the help of IoT and AI. The sensors introduced in the areas grant moment data around soil dampness, temperature and supplements. Ranchers can see this information on the versatile itself and choose to flood or fertilize in like manner. This will diminish your workload and increment your efficiency.
What is IoT and its role in agriculture?
IoT (Web of Things) It employs sensors, cameras and savvy gadgets. These gadgets record farm-related data such as soil dampness, temperature and climate conditions.
AI (manufactured insights) This innovation gets the information and makes the right proposals for the future. As soon as there will be rain, at what time the plants will need fertilizer or when the danger of insects may increase.
The combination of these two techniques is called 'precision farming'. It means farming at the right time, in the right way and using the right resources.
Use of IoT and AI in Assam's Tea Industry
Today, smart farming has started in many tea gardens of Assam. Farmers and big tea estates are using these techniques.
1. monitoring of the soil
- The sensor provides information on soil moisture and nutrient levels.
- Farmers know when and how much to irrigate.
- This prevents wastage of water.
2. weather forecasting
- AI accurately predicts the weather.
- Farmers are ready to cultivate sugarcane.
- Damage is reduced in the event of sudden rain or drought.
3.Prevent pests and diseases
- Cameras and sensors take pictures of plants.
- The AI identifies from those pictures that the plant is healthy or the disease is starting in it.
- By taking medicines on time, the disease can be prevented.
4. Harvesting and Yield Management
AI predicts the yield.
Farmers know when the crop will be ready.
This keeps the supply and prices in the market under control.
Read more:- How Drone Is Transforming Tea Plantation Monitoring in Assam
Benefits to farmers and industry
IoT and AI have made farming easy and profitable.
- Increase in production: The plants get water, fertilizer and medicine on time, which increases the yield.
- Reduction in cost: Correct use of resources reduces costs.
- Improving the quality: The quality of tea leaves is better.
- Protection of the environment: Reduced use of water and chemicals keeps the environment safe.
The income of farmers will be increased. Farmers get better prices for their produce.
Challenges and the way forward
Although IoT and AI are very helpful for farming, there are still challenges in adopting them.
- The initial cost of the technology is high.
- Not all farmers have access to smartphones and the internet.
- There is a lack of training and awareness.
Conclusion
Tea of Assam is not just a cultivation, but it is associated with the livelihood, tradition and pride of the people there. The tea industry has given Assam a distinct identity on the world map. But the challenges over time have made it clear that if new thinking and technology are not adopted, then this industry can be threatened in the future. That is why adopting IoT and AI based precision farming is no longer an option but a necessity.
Today, when smart sensors and AI tools are being used in tea gardens, not only is farming becoming easier but resources are also being saved. This change is giving new energy and hope to the farmers. Where earlier farmers used to depend on weather and forecast, now they are able to rely on data and scientific information. This is the real result of their hard work.
With this technological revolution, the tea industry of Assam is becoming competitive not only within the country but also in the global market. Good quality and sustainable farming is also increasing the confidence of foreign buyers. This change will not only increase the income of farmers in the long run but will also strengthen the economy of Assam.
