A breakthrough in farm automation that harnesses open-source software to manage and monitor crops remotely has won the 2023 Kerala State Farm Award for innovation in agriculture. This cutting-edge solution, implemented on a plot in Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram, has transformed traditional farming practices, particularly in the cultivation of vine-type tomatoes under a rain shelter.
Agriculture Minister P. Prasad announced the awards, recognizing achievements across 41 categories, on 14th August 2024. The innovation, created by Santhosh Kumar S, a user experience designer with a Technopark firm, utilizes sensors and probes to track essential farming parameters such as temperature, humidity, light intensity, and water temperature. These are fed into a microcomputer, allowing for the automation of critical farm activities, such as irrigation, without the need for constant physical presence.
Santhosh Kumar S, whose farming journey began a decade ago, says his farm automation solution is suitable not just for hydroponics, but other farming methods as well. His success highlights the potential of cost-effective farm automation solutions in enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.
“I can remotely access all the information sitting at my home using a normal internet connection. Essential activities such as turning the sprinkler on and off will be done even without my intervention,” the 42-year-old was quoted as saying by The Hindu.
Minister P. Prasad, in his address, emphasized the importance of such innovations, noting how they are vital for the future of Indian agriculture. He also highlighted the diversity of this year’s winners, which included traditional farmers, agrotech startups, and academic institutions, all of whom are playing a critical role in advancing the agricultural sector in Kerala and beyond.
Major Awards:
- Best Farmer Award: An esteemed ryot from Idukki received the award for their innovative and sustainable farming practices, which have significantly contributed to the agricultural community in Kerala.
- Achutha Menon Award for Agricultural Activities: Vaikom Block Panchayat was honored with this prestigious award for its exemplary agricultural development initiatives, particularly in promoting sustainable practices at the community level.
- Innovation in Agriculture Award: Santhosh Kumar S. of Kariavattom, a software engineer from Thiruvananthapuram was recognized for his pioneering work in integrating technology with agriculture, leading to enhanced productivity and efficiency in farming practices using farm automation.
Kudumbashree Achievements:
- Best Collective Farming Initiative: Kudumbashree’s collective farming model was awarded for effectively bringing women together to cultivate and manage farmland, leading to improved productivity and social empowerment.
- Women Empowerment in Agriculture: Several Kudumbashree units were honored for their efforts in empowering women through agricultural activities, providing them with leadership and entrepreneurship opportunities.
- Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Kudumbashree’s projects were recognized for their eco-friendly farming methods, which have had a long-term positive impact on the environment.
Special Recognitions:
- Youth Farmer of the Year: Recognizing the importance of engaging the younger generation in agriculture, this award was given to a young farmer who has shown exceptional dedication and innovation in farming.
- Organic Farming Excellence: This award was presented to individuals and groups that have excelled in promoting and practicing organic farming, contributing to the state’s health and environmental sustainability.
The 2023 Kerala State Farm Awards highlighted the diverse and dynamic contributions to agriculture in the state, underscoring the importance of innovation, sustainability, and community-driven initiatives in advancing Kerala’s agricultural sector.
The State Farm Awards continue to be a platform that not only honors excellence but also inspires the next generation of innovators and leaders in agriculture. With technology increasingly becoming a key player in this field, awards like these are essential in encouraging more young professionals to contribute to the sector, ensuring its growth and sustainability in the years to come.
