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16th August 2024 (9 Topics)

AI-based National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS)

Context

The Government launched the AI-based National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) to integrate advanced technology into agriculture and to reduce farmers' reliance on pesticide retailers by promoting a more scientific approach to pest management.

What is NPSS?

  • The National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) is an AI-based platform designed to assist farmers by connecting them with agricultural scientists and experts for pest control and management.
  • It aims to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of pest management through technology.
  • Functionality: Farmers can use the NPSS platform to take and upload photos of pest-infested crops or insects. These images are analyzed using artificial intelligence tools, which then provide insights and recommendations for pest control.
  • Benefits:
    • Accurate Diagnosis: NPSS helps in the accurate identification of pests and diseases.
    • Efficient Pest Management: Provides data-driven recommendations for the appropriate use of pesticides.
    • Reduction in Pesticide Dependence: Encourages a scientific approach to pest management rather than reliance on pesticide retailers.
    • Improved Connectivity: Facilitates direct communication between farmers and agricultural experts.
  • Impact: NPSS is intended to support approximately 14 crore farmers in India, improving pest management practices, increasing crop yields, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Current Dependence on Pesticide
  • Pesticides (insecticides, fungicides, herbicides/weedicides, plant growth regulators) are used in India for agriculture, public health, household use, industrial/construction sector uses. 
  • India's farmers use pesticides to treat around 40% of their cultivated land, with 65–70% of that land being irrigated.
  • This dependency often leads to the indiscriminate use of pesticides, which can result in over-application, environmental harm, and the development of pesticide-resistant pests.
  • The lack of personalized, accurate pest management advice from scientific sources exacerbates these issues.
  • Regulation: India enacted pesticide regulation in 1968 (Insecticides Act of 1968). The present law is to be replaced by the Pesticide Management Bill (2020).
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