Union Government Launches AI-Based National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) for Farmers

The Union government has introduced the National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS), an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based platform designed to connect farmers with agricultural scientists and experts, thereby improving pest control measures across the country. This initiative, under the Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage (Ministry of Agriculture), is part of a broader strategy to reduce farmers’ dependence on pesticide retailers and promote a scientific approach to pest management.

Key Features of the NPSS Platform:

• AI-Driven Analysis: The NPSS utilizes AI to analyze real-time data on pest infestations, enabling timely and effective interventions.
• Direct Communication: Farmers can directly communicate with experts by uploading images of affected crops or pests via their mobile phones, allowing for rapid diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
• Regular Pest Management Advisories: NPSS will provide continuous and accurate pest management advisories, promoting Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices across the farming community.
• Reduction of Pesticide Dependence: The platform aims to reduce the overuse of pesticides by providing accurate pest management advice, encouraging sustainable agricultural practices.
• Widespread Reach: NPSS is expected to benefit approximately 140 million farmers across India, making expert advice more accessible.
• Integration with Local Outreach: The technology will be disseminated through state-level outreach programs, ensuring that the support is tailored to the specific agricultural challenges of different regions.

Need for NPSS:

The NPSS was developed to address critical challenges in agriculture, such as the overuse of pesticides and the farmers’ heavy reliance on pesticide retailers. Pest attacks can lead to significant losses in food production, with estimates suggesting up to 20% losses annually. By providing accurate and timely pest management advice, NPSS aims to mitigate these losses and promote more sustainable and effective farming practices.

This innovative platform not only helps farmers avoid unnecessary pesticide purchases but also plays a vital role in enhancing food security by reducing crop losses due to pest attacks.