Hazaribagh Tests Drone Technology for Faster Farm Spraying

Brief By Newsbrief / 9:23 AM on 03 Oct 2026

The Hazaribagh district administration is testing drone technology for spraying pesticides and fertilisers in Padma, Barhi and Ichak blocks. The trials aim to assess whether drone-based farming can improve crop productivity and reduce costs for farmers.

According to officials, drones can spray pesticides or liquid fertilisers across one acre in around six to seven minutes, allowing large fields to be covered quickly and ensuring more uniform application. Five locations have been identified for the pilot exercise, after which a report will be submitted to the government.

The initiative is being conducted with the Hazaribagh Agriculture Department and the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Goria Karma. Officials said the project is being carried out under the direction of Deputy Commissioner Hemant Sati, with ATMA personnel involved.

The administration is also seeking to involve rural women and youth. Under the Namo Drone Didi scheme, women will receive information and training on operating drones, while registration will be encouraged to create potential employment opportunities.