ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of

Technology. Pimpri. Pune. for providing us with the educational foundation and
support that has greatly contributed to the completion of this work. The guidance.
resources. and encouragement we received trom the faculty members, staff and
Familr have been invaluable throughout our academic journey.

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SYLLABUS
IT inAgricultural System - (AI3021)
UNIT I PRECISION FARMING
Precision agriculture and agricultural management - ground based sensors, Remote sensing,
GPS, GIS and mapping software, Yield mapping systems, Crop production modeling.
(Chapter - 1)

UNIT II ENVIRONMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS

Artificial light systems, management of crop growth in greenhouses, simulation of CO,:
consumption in greenhouses, on-line measurement of plant growth in the greenhouse,
models of plant production and expert systems in horticulture. (Chapter - 2)
UNIT III AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT
Agricultural systems - managerial overview, Reliability of agricultural systems, Simulation
of crop growth and field operations, Optimizing the use of resources, Linear programming,
Project scheduling, Artificial intelligence and decision support systems. (Chapter -3)
UNIT IV WEATHER PREDICTION MODELS
Importance of climate variability and seasonal forecasting, Understanding and predicting
world's climate system, Global climatic models and their potential for seasonal climate
forecasting, General systems approach to applying seasonal climate forecasts. (Chapter - 4)
UNIT V E-GOVERNANCE IN AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS
Expert systems, decision support systems, Agricultural and biological databases,
e-commerce, e-business systems and applications, Technology enhanced learning systems
and solutions, e-learning, Rural development and information society. (Chapter -5)

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
UNIT I

Chapter 1 Precision Farming (1-1) to (1- 16)

1.1 Precision Agriculture 1-2
1.1.1 Why Precision Agriculture. ..1-2
1.1.2 Tools Utilized in Precision Agricultural Systems... .1-2
1.1.3 Advantages of Precision Agriculture .1-2
1.14 Limitations in Adoption of Precision Agriculture .1-3
1.2 Agricultural Management ... 1 -3
1.2.1 The Function of the Information Technology Sector

in Agriculture Management. .1-3

1.2.2 The Value of Agricultural Management in Technology
Integration........1 -4
1.2.3 Important Techniques for Agricultural Management. .1-4
1.2.4 Key Technologies for Agricultural Management..
.. 1 -4
1.2.5 New Developments in Agricultural Management... . 1 -4
1.3 Ground based Sensors..
... 1 -5
1.3.1 Types of Ground-based Sensors.
1 -6
1.3.2 Advantages of using Ground-Based Sensors..
..1-6
1.4 Remote Sensing.
1-7
1.4.1 Types of Remote Sensing Technique
.1-8
1.4.2
Advantages of Remote Sensing in Agriculture
1-8
1.4.3 Remote Sensing Applications.
1.5 ..1 - 8
Introduction of GPS in Precision Farming
1.5.1 1-8
Implications of GPS Technology.
1.5.2 Improved Agility and ..1 -9

1.5.3
Effectiveness. .1 -9
Future Prospects ...

1.6 GIS and Mapping 1-9

Software.
1.6.1 1-9
Popular Geographic Information
Systems Software. .1-9
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 1.6.2
Primary Characteristics and Functions.. .1-10
1.6.3 Pros of Using GIS .1-10
1.6.4 GIS Applications .1-10
1.6.5 Challenges and Limitations 1-10
1.7 Yield Mapping Systems. 1-10
1.7.1 Key Features of Yield Mapping Systems .1-11
1.7.2
Processing of Data for Yield Mapping .1-12
1.7.3
Utilization of Yield Mapping. 1-12
1.7.4
Advantages of Yield Mapping Systems .1-12
1.8 Crop Production Modeling. 1-12
1.8.1 Significance of Agriculture 1-12
1.8.2 Crop Modelling Inputs... ....1 -13
1.9 Two Marks Questions with Answers. ..... 1 - 13

UNIT II

Chapter -2 Environment Control Systems (2-1) to (2 - 28)

2.0 Introduction. .2-2
2.1 Artificial Light in Agriculture. 2-2
2.1.1 Plants and Light Signalling... .2-3
2.1.2 Plant Pigments, Photoreceptors and Photosynthesis. .2 -4
2.2 Management of Crop Growth in Greenhouses. 2-5
2.2.1 Climate Control in Greenhouses. .... 2-6
2.2.1.1 Temperature Monitoring and Management... ..2 -6

2.2.1.2 Humidity Control. ..2 -6

2.2.1.3 Light Management .2 -7

2.2.2 Irrigation Management in Greenhouses. ....2-8
2.2.2.1 Automated Watering Systems .2 - 8
2.2.2.2 Drip Irrigation. ..2-9
2.2.2.3 Nutrient Delivery. .......2-9

2.2.3 Crop Monitoring... 2-12

2.2.3.1 Growth Tracking. ......... 2 - 12

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 ...2 - 13
2.2.4 Data Analysis
Big Data in Agriculture ...2 - 13
2.2.4.1
Predictive Analytics. ..2- 13
2.2.4.2

2.2.5 Precision Planting. .2-14

2.2.5.1 Efficient Harvesting. .....2 - 15
Consistency and Quality. ..2 - 15
2.2.5.2

2.2.5.3 Labor Reduction. ...2- 15

2.2.5.4 Adaptability... ..2- 16

2.2.5.5 Drones. ..2- 16

2.2.6 Integrated Management Systems... .2 -17

2.2.6.1 Centralized Control Systems ...2 - 17

2.2.6.2 loT (Internet of Things) .2-18

2.2.7 Sustainability and Resource Efficiency.... ... 2 - 18

2.2.7.1 Water Conservation. .2 - 19

2.2.8 Remote Management. .....2-19

2.2.8.1 Features ..2 - 19

2.2.8.2 Real-time Alerts. .2 - 20

2.3 Simulation of C0, Consumption in Greenhouses.. 2- 21

2.3.1 Introduction ..
.2-21
2.3.1.1 Key Aspects of CO, Simulation in Greenhouses. ....... .2- 21

2.4 On-line Measurement of Plant Growth in the Greenhouse. 2- 23

2.5 Models of Plant Production and Expert Systems in Horticulture 2 - 25

2.5.1 Plant Production Models. .2 - 25

2.5.2 Expert Systems. ........2- 25
2.6 Two Marks Questions with Answers ..2-26

UNIT III

Chapter 3 Agricultural Systems Management (3 - 1) to (3 -36)

3.1 Agricultural Systems - Managerial Overview 3-2
3.1.1 Factors Influencing Agricultural Systems .3-3
3.1.1.1 Weather and Seasonal Variations. 3-3

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 3.1.1.2 Constantly Evolving Technologies. ..3 -3

3.1.1.3 Legal and Pollical Implications 3- 4

3.1,1,4
Changing Economy. 3 -4

3.1.1.5 Evolving Societal Trends... .3 - 4

3.1.1.6 Competition in the Market. ..3-5

3.1.1.7 Varying Needs of Clients .3-5
3.1.2 Role of Tools in Management and Evaluation ...3 - 5
3.2 Reliability of Agricultural Systems. 3-6
3.2.1 Role of Human in
Reliability of System.... 3-7
3.2.2 Quantifying System Reliability Values.. 3-7
3.2.3 System Reliability Estimation.. ... 3 - 8
3.2.3.1 Series Components ..3-8
3.2.3.2 Parallel Components .3-8
3.2.3.3 Units Which are Heterogeneous 3 -9
3.2.3.4 Finding Individual Components Values .3-9
3.2.3.5 Finding Human Component Values. .3 -9
3.2.3.6 Decisions by Management. .3- 10
3.3 Simulation of Crop Growth and Field Operations. 3-10
3.3.1 Features of Crop Plan : Crop Growth and Field Operation
3.3.2 Uses of Crop Plan
Simulator...... 3 - 10
3-11
3.3.3 An Example on Utilization of Crop Plan
Simulation Platform... .... 3 - 12
3.4 Optimizing the Use of Resources - Linear Programming 3-12
3.4.1 Requirements of Linear Programming Tool... .3-14
3.4.2 Usage of Quattropro toSolve Linear
Programming using
Hog or Cattle Optimisation
3-15
3.4.2.1 Configuring the Model for Linear Programming ...3- 15
3.4.2.2 Handling the Issue of Linear Programming
.3-16
3.4.2.3 Examining and Determining utcomes.
...3- 16
3.4.2.4 llustrative Use Case
.........3 - 17
3.4.3 Using QuattroPro to Solve Linear Programs :A
Poultry.
Products Marketing Problem.
.3 -17
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 3.4.3.1 Configuring a Model for Linear Programming. ..3- 17

3.4.3.2 Handling the Problem of Linear Programming.. ..3-18

3.4.3.3 Typical Situation. ....3- 19

3.4.4 Advantage of using Linear Programming Tool. 3-20

3.5 Project Scheduling. 3-21
3.5.1 Introduction to Project Scheduling in Agricultural
Systems 3-21

3.5.2 Software Packages available for Project

Scheduling. .3-21
3.5.2.1 Microsoft Project .................3 - 2)

3.5.2.2 Trello ...3-22

3.5.2.3 Ag Leader SMS ...3 - 22

3.6.2.4 Farm Logs .....3 - 23

3.5.2.5 Smartsheet.... ..3 - 23

3.5.2.6 Asana. ........... 3 -24

3.5.3 Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT)

in Project Scheduling for Agricultural Systems .3-24
3.5.3.1 Overview .3 -25

3.5.3.2 Applying PERT in Agricultural Systems. ...3 - 25

3.5.3.3 An llustrative Case in Agriculture... ....3- 26

3.6 Artificial Inteligence and Decision Support Systems. 3 - 27

.......3-27
3.6.1 Artificial Intelligence
3.6.2 Knowledge based Decision Support Systems.... .3- 27
..3 - 28
3.6.3 Overviewof Decision Support Systems Applications.
.3- 29
3.6.4 Static and Dynamíc Decision Support Systems.
3.6.5 Development of Decision Support Systems (DSS)
for Agricultural System Management. 3-29

3.6.6 Planning the Development of User-Friendly Decision Support Systems..3-32

.3-34
3.6.7 Programming Web Page for Decision Support System..
3.6.8 ADecision Support System for Precision Agriculture and Crop Modelling3 -34
3.7 TwO Marks Questions with Answers .3-35

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 UNIT IV

Chapter - 4 Weather Prediction Models (4-1) to (4- 24)

4.1 4-2
Importance of Climate Variability and Seasonal Forecasting
4.1.1 Temperature .4-2
4-3
4.1.2
Humidity.
4.1.3 Wind Speed. .4-3
4.1.4 Air Pressure 4 -4

4.2 Understanding and Predicting the World's Climate System. 4-4

4.2.1 Components of Climate System. 4 -4

4.2.2 Climate Models. .4 -5
4.2.3 Climate Change and Predictions .4-5
4.2.4 Importance of Climate Prediction. 4-5
4.2.5 Challenges of Climate Prediction ...4 -6
4.3 Global Climatic Models and their Potential
for Seasonal Climate Forecasting 4-6
4.3.1 Introduction to Global Climate Models (GCMs).. .4 -6
4.3.2 Components of Global Climate Models.. 4-7
4.3.3 The Use of GCMs in Seasonal Climate Forecasting 4-8
4.3.4 Applications for Seasonal Climate Forecasting 4 -8
4.3.5 Challenges and Limitations of Seasonal Climate Forecasting. 4-9
4.3.6 Advancements and Future Directions in Seasonal Climate Forecasting...4 - 10
4.4 General Systems Approach to applying Seasonal Climate Forecasts......4 - 10
4.4.1 Introduction to the Systems Approach .4-11
4.4.2 Key Components of the Systems Approach 4-11
4.4.3 Steps in Systems Approach Implementation .4-12
4.4.4 Advantages of Systems Approach.. 4-13
4.4.5 Difficulties in using the Systems Approach. 4-13
4.4.6 Opportunities and Future Directions. .4-14
4.5 Challenges in Weather Forecasting. 4-15
4.5.1 Data Accessibility and Quality .4-15
4.5.2 Model Intricacy .4-15
4.5.3 The Ambient Nature is Chaotic 4- 15
4.5.4 UDcertainty of Model... .4 -15
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 Anthropogenicversus Natural
Influences. ...4 -15
4.5.5
4.5.6
Combining Different Components ....4-16
Models (GCMs)
4.5.7 Issues with Global Climatic
Seasonal Climate..... .4-16
and their Possibility for Predicting
Forecasts
4.5.8 Difficulties in using Seasonal Climate
,4 - 16
with aGeneral Systems Approach
4-17
4.6 Advantages.
Advantages in Weather Forecasting ... .4-17
4.6.1
4.6.2 Seasonal Climate Forecasting's Benefits. .4-18
........4..18
4.6.3 Benefits of Knowing and Forecasting the Global Climate System
4.6.4 Benefits of Seasonal Climate Forecasting
.4-19
using Global Climatic Models (GCMs)..
Forecasts
4.6.5 Benefits of using Seasonal Climate
.4-19
with a General Systems Approach.
4-20
4.7 Applications of Weather Forecasting....
.4-20
4.7.1 Handling Emergencies..
..... 4 - 20
4.7.2 Modes of Transportation.
.4 -21
4.7.3 Farming
Energy Administration...... .4 -21
4.7.4
.4-21
4.8 Two Marks Questions with Answers
UNIT V

E-Governance in Agricultural Systems (5 - 1) to (5 - 14)

Chapter5
5-2
5.1 Expert Systems ...
5 -2
5.2 Decision Support Systems
Static and Dynamic Decision Support Systems 5-4
5.3
5-5
5.4 Agricultural and Biological Databases
5-7
5.5 E-Business Systems and Applications.
5-9
5.6 Technology Enhanced Learning Systems and Solutions..
5-12
5.7 Rural Development and Information Society..
......5 - 13
5.8 Two Marks Questions with Answers

Solved Model Question Paper (M - 1) to (M - 2)

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 UNIT I

1 Precision Farming

Syllabus
Precision agriculture and agricultural management - ground based sensors, Remote sensing, GPS,
GIS and mapping software, Yield mapping systems, Crop production modeling.

Contents
1.1 Precision Agriculture
1.2 Agricultural Management
1.3 Ground based Sensors
1.4 Remote Sensing
1.5 Introduction of GPS in Precision Farming
1.6 GIS and Mapping Software
1.7 Yield Mapping Systems
1.8 Crop Production Modeling
1.9 Two Marks Questions with Answers

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 1-2 Precision Farming
IT in Agncutural System

1.1 Precision Agriculture

Precision agriculture, also known as precisionfaming or site-specific
crop
" Definition : that employs
management. is an agricultural
management
crop variability
approach
across and within fields. technology
The
to
purpose is
detect. quantify and respond to Precision agriculture employs a
toimprove crop
management at the field level.
data analytics, to
variety
technology. including GPS. sensors, drones and increase
of sustainability by delivering precise inputs suu
agricultural productivity. efficiency and amounts.
at the corect time and in the right
as water. fertilizer and pesticides

1.1.1 Why Precision Agriculture

efficiency : It uses resources such as water, fertilizer and pesticides onl..
Increased
when necessary. reducing waste.
growth and productivity,
Improved yields : Tailored farming practices promote crop
decreases cost on seeds, fertilizers and
Cost savings : Making better use of inputs
chemicals.
environmental effect and
Environmental benefits : Using fewer chemicals reduces
runoff.
technologies provide extensive field data
" Improved decision-making: Advanced
allowing for more informed decisions.
" Labor reduction : Automation
reduces the demand for manual labour.
food safety while
Food safety : Improved traceability and monitoring help to ensure
meeting regulatory requirements.

1.1.2 Tools Utilized in Precision Agricultural Systems

technology and other
" Modern precision agriculture is primarily reliant on information
field
specialized equipment. This involves using GPS and GNSS systems for accurate
soil and crop
mapping, as well as advanced sensor arrays to collect real-time data on
conditions. Drones and satellite photography play important roles in obtaining high
resolution photos and data to analyse and manage crop health and resource distribution
efficiently.
1.1.3 Advantages of Precision Agriculture
" Precision agricultural practices have been found to considerably enhance crop yields
while lowering input costs like fertilizers and water. Furthermore, these strategies
promote environmental sustainability by reducing chemical runoff and boosting soil

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IT in Agricultural System 1-3 Precision Farming

hcalth through precision application, Finally, these benefits assist the long-term viability
of the farming industry and can boost market competitiveness.
1.1.4|Limitations in Adoption of Precision Agriculture
Despite the various benefits, precision agriculture confronts a number of probiems.
These include expensive upfront expenses, a lack of technical understanding and
restricted access to dependable intermet and data infrastructure. Furthermore, smaller
farms may struggle with the cost and scalability of precision agriculture systems. The
adoption of new technology also comes with a learning process, which might be
problematic for certain farmers. In addition, data privacy and security issues, as well as
the requirement for continuing maintenance and technical assistance, can stymie wider
adoption. Addressing these issues is critical for realizing all the possible advantages
associated with precision agriculture across various farming operations.
Review Questions

1. What is the definition of precisionagriculture ?

2. What are the main objectives of precisionagriculture research ?
3. What technologies serve as the foundation for precision agriculture?
1.2 Agricultural Management
Agricultural management is the methodical planning, implementation and control of all
farm-related activities, including crop production and animal rearing. This entails
making the best use of resources including land, water, labour and capital in order to
assure agricultural productivity, sustainability and profitability. Strategic planning, crop
and livestock management, soil and water conservation and technology integration all
play important roles in improving efficiency and decision-making.
1.2.1 The Function of the Information Technology Sector in
Agriculture Management
Modern agriculture management relies heavily on Information Technology (IT) to
improve productivity and sustainability. Precision agriculture uses GPS and GIS for
precise field mapping and crop monitoring, while drones and satellite imagery provide
real-time information on crop health and soil conditions. Big data analytics and farm
management software enable farmers to make informed decisions by evaluating vast
amounts of data from numerous sources. Automation and robotics in machinery, as well
as smart irrigation systems, improve farming efticiency and resource utilization.

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 1-4 Precision Farming
ITin Agricultural System
Furthernore. blockchain technology offers supply chain transparency and traceability,
support systems provide real
advanced weather forecasting tools and decision
while and prepare better.
managers manage risks
time infomation to help
Management in Technology Integration
Agricultural
1.2.2 The Value of incorporating technology ins
critical to successfully
Agricultural management is to
that use farm technology increase
techniques output,
faming methods. It includes growing world population,
sustainable practices. The
minimize garbage and promote billion by 2050, demands creative solutione &.
roughly 10
which is expected to reach with demand growth.
maintaining food production in update
for Agricultural Management
1.2.3 Important Techniques impact on agricultural management
have a substantial
Some essential technologies analytics to maximize their
resources
farmers to use data
Precision agriculture allows soil, humidity and cron
efficiency and sustainability by better managing automated
increasing
farming technology such as loT, drones and
productivity. Furthermore, smart practices. Drones, for example,
give
traditional farming
machinery are transforming collecting, whilst loT devices can
collect data
monitoring and data
aerial views for crop irrigation and fertilization decisions.
climate to help with
on soil conditions and
Agricultural Management
1.2.4 Key Technologies for substantial impact on agricultural management.
technologies have a resources.
" Several essential data analytics to mnaximize their
farmers to use
Precision agriculture allows better managing soil, humidity and
sustainability by
increasing efficiency and farming technology such as loT, drones
and
smart
production of crops. Furthermore, traditional farming practices. For example,
transforming
automated machinery are and data collecting, whilst loT devices
crop monitoring
drones provide aerial views for climate, assisting in decision-making
for
conditions and
can gather data on soil
irigation and fertilization.
Agricultural Management
1.2.5 New Developments in intelligence and machine learning into
incorporation of artificial
" Moving forward, the projected to boost production and innovation.
agricultural management methods is for crop management, allowing tor
predictive analytics
These technologies will provide allocation. Furthermore, as the
sector
decision-making and resource
more proactive

knowledge
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evolves towards more sustainable practices, advancements in water management

systems will play a critical part in conserving resources.
Review Questions

I. ldentijy management in agriculture and explain is significance in contemporary farming

methods.
2. Explain the essential roles of an agricultural manager to oversee farm operations and ensure
productivity.
3. Specijy the tactics you would use to maximize the yield and quality of crops ln a Jarming
enterprise.

1.3 Ground based Sensors

Ground-based sensors are critical in precision farming because they provide real-time
data that helps farmers make better soil and crop management decisions. These sensors
are meant to monitor a wide range of elements that influence crop health and
productivity, such as rainfall, temperature, nutrient levels and more, allowing farmers to
eventually improve their methods.

Data
acquisition Fetching
data

Precise farming
cycle

Implementing
decisions Formulating
decisions

Fig. 1.3.1 Precise

farming cycle
Fig. 1.3.1 shows the cycle is
continuous since the outcomes of implemented
can result in new data
collection, restarting the prOcess. This cycle ensures thatdecisions
techniques are adjusted and constantly enhanced using farming
judgments. real-time data and informed
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1-6 Precision Farming
1.3.1 Types of Ground-based Sensors
ground-based sensors, each of which
Precision agrnculture employs a variety of
soil
serves
moisture sensors, which
a
Examples include dielectric
distinct soil
detect moisture purpose.
monitoring levels using the dielectric constant and electrochemical sensors,
Furthermore, mechanical soil sensors assese
which examine soil nutrient content.
information on soil health.
density and obstruction, providing critical
assess the water content of t h e ,
Soil humidity sensors : These sensors
how and what
allowing farmers to optimize irigation operations by estimating
quantity of water is required.
Temperature sensors: Used to monitor soil and ambient temperatures, these
sensors are critical for managing crops and for comprehending the microclimate
conditions that influence plant growth.
status of the sail
pH sensors : These sensors detect the alkaline or acidic
providing critical information for altering soil conditions to suit various crops.
Nutrient sensors : Nutrient sensors monitor levels of critical nutrients such ae
nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium in the soil, enabling for more precise
fertilization tactics.
Humidity sensors : These sensors measure the amount of moisture in the air.,
which is useful for assessing evaporation rates and crop disease risk.
Light sensors (Photometers) : These sensors detect the amount of sunlight or
Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) that reaches plants, which is essential
for understanding photosynthesis rates and growth.
Electrochemical sensors : These sensors can detect a variety of chemical
characteristics in the soil or water, including salinity and oxygen levels, which are
critical for crop health.
Pressure sensors : These sensors are commonly used in irrigation systems to
monitor the pressure in water lines, ensuring that water is distributed evenly and
efficiently.
Infrared sensors : Sensors measure surface temperature can be used to monitor
crop health, detect water stress and assess soilconditions.

1.3.2 Advantages of using Ground-based Sensors

The use of ground-based sensors in precision farming not only
improves data quality but
also promotes sustainable agriculture by allowing for
optimal resource usage, lowering
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costs associated with inputs such as water and fertilizer. Furthermore, these sensors can
lead to better yields and adecreased environmental imprint by providing farmers with
data that allow for focused applications rather than broad, generalized treatments.
Review Questions
. What is the definition of ground-based sensors ?
2. What kind of data can ground-based sensors gather ?
3. What are the differences between ground-based sensors and floating and satellite sensors ?

1.4 Remote Sensing

" Remote sensing is a technique for gathering information about the Earth's surface
without making physical touch with it, by detecting and analysing reflected and emitted
radiation. This technique entails capturing and processing energy to expose the physical
features of various terrains andobjects.
Data

Satellite
Data

UAVS Remote
sensing
system

Decision
making

Fig. 1.4.1 Remote sensing for precision

agriculture : Data collection and decision-making
" Fig. 1.4.1 shows the graphic depicts the use
of remote sensing in
including satellites, UAVs (rones) and ground-based sensors precision agriculture,
gathering data from
fields. This data is processed using a remote sensing device,
which helps farmers make
informed decisions on how to improve their methods.

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1-8 Precision Farming
Technique
1.4.1 Types of Remote Sensing
Optical sensors : It detects
radiation in the visible and infrared spectrums, allowing for
or aerialI
monitoring of crop health and land cover via satellite imaging photography.
the and irriooti
sensors: It uses emitted radiation to analyse plant water stress
" Thermal temperature fluctuations.
based on
efficiency. pinpointing problem regions
radiation to pierce clouds and ollect data regardlece
" Radar sensors :It uses microwave and
weather conditions. This is particularly useful for mapping soil moisture
of
evaluating crop growth phases.
UAVS : Drones equipped with various sensors capture localized, high-resolution data
"
health and detect illnesses.
allowing for rapid actions to monitor crop
Agriculture
1.4.2 Advantages of Remote Sensing in
Remote sensing provides numerous benefits, including enhanced crop management
"
nutritional deficits and pest infestatione
through early identification of stress, illnesses,
management by measuring soil moisture
The device also allows for improved irrigation
levels, which optimizes water use.

1.4.3 Remote Sensing Applications

including crop biomass calculation,
Remote sensing has a wide range of applications,
all of which assist informing
surface area tracking and environmental monitoring,
evaluating risks for natural
sustainable farming practices. It plays a vital part in
such as floods or droughts.
catastrophes and helps farmers limit losses from occurrences

Review Questions

1. What is the definition of remote sensing?

2. What Are the different kinds of remote sensing ?
3. Why is remote sensing important ?

1.5 Introduction of GPS in Precision Farming

Precision farming relies heavily on GPS technology, which allows for the collecting and
analysis of geospatial data in order to optimize agricultural methods. It allows farmers to
increase productivity using procedures such as field mapping, soil sampling and yield
monitoring, resulting in more efficient resource usage and higher agricultural'yields.

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1.5.1 Implications of GPSTechnology

" GPS technology has various advantages, including precision soil sampling, which
allows for localized adjustments in chemical treatments and planting density to meet
specific parts of a field. In addition, efficient field navigation reduces duplicate
application and enables full field coverage in the quickest time.

1.5.2 Improved Agility and Effectiveness

" GPS technology enables farmers to operate in low visibility situations, such as rain or
fog, resulting in increased output. Eliminating the demand for human "laggers"
throughout applications improves eficiency and eliminates pesticide and fertilizer
Overspray.

1.5.3 Future Prospects

The potential utilization of GPS in farming seems optimistic, with technological
developments expected to improve precision agricultural operations. Integrating GPS
with artificial intelligence and machine learning could allow for real-time decision
making and more effective resource allocation, solving crop management and
environmental sustainability concerns.
Review Questions

1. What is GPS and how does it work in precision agriculture ?

2. What are the primary advantages of integrating GPS technology into farming practices ?
3. What obstacles can farmers encounter when utilizing GPS technology ?

1.6 GIS and Mapping Software

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) play an important role in precision farming
because they enable farmers to collect, analyse and interpret spatial data about their
fields. This data contains critical elements like the nature of the soil, water content, crop
health and yield trends, which help optimize agricultural operations for greater
productivity and sustainability.
1.6.1 Popular Geographic Information Systems Software
" ArcGIS and GeoPard Crop Monitoring are two prominent GIS and mapping software
tools for precision farming. These software tools allow farmers to generate precise
vegetation and productivity maps while supporting effective data management.

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 IT in Agricultural System 1- 10 Precision Farming
1.6.2 Primary Characteristics and Functions
GIS software's major functions in precision agriculture include precise evaluation of
and resource optimizati
soil, pest and discase monitoring. crop production forecasting
make informed decisions to
Using these data-driven insights, farners can improve
practices.
operational eftectiveness and assure sustainable farming

1.6.3 Pros of Using GIS

increased cra
The use of GIS in precision farming has various advantages, including
as fertilizers a
vields. lower input costs due to focused application of resources such
efficiency and
water and less environmental effect. Farmers can increase their
fields.
sustainability by tailoring their practices to the conditions of their

1.6.4 GIS Applications

" Notable examples of GIS applications in precision farming
include the cotton man
% reduction
project in Australia, which successfully monitored water use and led to a 40
in consumption. Additionally, GeoPard Crop Monitoring effectively utilized spatial data
to create productivity maps and predict crop yields with over 90 % accuracy, aiding
farmers in implementing targeted interventions.
1.6.5 Challenges and Limitations
" With the benefits, problems remain in the implementation of GIS technology in
agriculture. Issues like as expensive technology costs, restricted access to GIS in rural
regions and the need for specialized tool training can all impede widespread adoption by
farmers. Addressing these issues is crucial for leveraging the benefits of GIS in
precision farming.
Review Questions

1. What is GIS ?
2. What kinds of sofwareare required to develop a GIS ?

1.7 Yield Mapping Systems

" Yield mapping systems use georeferenced data acquired during harvest to analyse and
visualize crop yield and moisture parameters in agiven field. They first appeared in the
early 1990s, aided by advances in GPS technology and numerous sensors that monitor
grain flow and moisture levels. This data collecting takes place in real time and 1s

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critical for advanced accuracy agriculture practices, allowing agriculturalists to make

knowledgeable management decisions.

Terrain mapping

Farm efficiency Soil profiling

assessment

Crop
productivity
mapping

Fig. 1.7.1Key elements of yield mapping in agricuiture

" Fig. 1.7.1 depicts the essential components of agricultural yield mapping, including
topography mapping, farm efficiency assessment, soil profiling and crop productivity
mapping. These aspects are critical for increasing agricultural yields and improving
overall farm management.
1.7.1 Key Features of Yield Mapping Systems
Ayield mapping system's main components include a grain flow sensor, grain humidity
detector, soil velocity detector, GPS receiver and a yield monitor display. The grain
flow sensor determines the volume of grain harvested, whilst the moisture sensor
accounts for fluctuations in grain moisture. The GPS receiver captures the geographical
position of the measurements, while the ground speed sensor ensures that yield data is
accurate by detecting the harvester's speed.

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Mapping
1.7.2 Processing of Data for Yield
data is processed using appropriate software to generate yield maps.
Once collected. the delays and deleting false data
account for grain flow
This includes filtering raw data to map,which i
yields. The result is a processed yield
items that do not reflect genuine System (GIS) software. This enahla.
Information
frequently displayed using Geographic
distribution across their fields.
producers to visualize vield

1.7.3 Utilization of Yield Mapping

heterogeneity in crop output, enabl1ng tailored management
Yield maps reveal spatial mal.
can identify high and low-yield zones within their fields to
techniques. Farmers data
fertilization and soil management decisions. Furthermore, yield
irigation. agreements
loans or evaluating land lease
facilitates funding choices, such as securing
based on proven agricultural productivity.
1.7.4 Advantages of Yield Mapping Systems
advantages, including improved resource
The use of yield mapping systems has various
more ustainable farming
allocation. increased production and the possibility of
that require cultural practice
practices. These technologies aid in identifying regions
resulting in improved crop management and increased overall farm
improvements,
profitability.
Review Questions
systems ?
1. What particular technologies are employed in yield mapping
these new yield mapping methods ?
2. What specific obstacles do farmers face when utilizing
1.8 Crop Production Modeling
growth
Crop production forecasting is the use of quantitative methods to anticipate plant
elements, crop
and development by taking into account numerous environmental
growing
management strategies and their interactions throughout the course of the
season. These models recreate the effects of various situations, giving us agreater
knowledge of how crops react to their surroundings.

1.8.1 Significance of Agriculture

" As the world's population grows, agricultural production must expand to satisfy food
demand, necessitating the development and use of modelling methodologies. Crop
models let farmers and agricultural professionals evaluate probable production resuls,
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allowing for the development of appropriate adaptation methods to deal with changing
climate circumstances.

1.8.2 Crop Modelling Inputs

Cropmodelling requires a large amount of input data, such as management details (e.g.
planting date, density and fertilization), soil characteristics (e.g., pH and organic matter),
physiological measurements (e.g.. biomass and plant height) and climate data (e.g.,
rainfall and temperature). To improve forecast accuracy, these models must be properly
calibrated and validated with precise data.
Review Questions

1. Which specific data inputs are most important for creating an accurate crop model ?
2. How can differences in weather patterns affect crop model accuracy ?
1.9 Two Marks Questions with Answers
Q.1 What are the functions of ground-based sensors and what role do they play in precision
farming ?
Ans. : Ground-based sensors track variables including temperature, nutrient levels and soil
moisture in real time by putting sensors in the soil or on plants. They are essential for
improving crop care, fertilization and irrigation, which raises yields and maximizes resource
efficiency.
Q,2 Howdoes agriculture use remote sensing ?
Ans. : Drones, satellites or airplanes are used in remote sensing to gather information on crops
and take pictures from a distance. It facilitates prompt actions by monitoring crop health,
identifying illnesses and evaluating growth patterns.
Q.3 Why is GPS a crucial tool in contemporary farming ?
Ans. : Accurate position data is provided by GPS technology for field activities and farm
machines. It guarantees accuracy in the planting. fertilizing and harvesting processes, cutting
down on waste and boosting productivity.
Q.4 What role does GIS play in the management of agriculture ?
Ans. : A Geographic Information System (GIS) combines multiple data sources to produce
intricate field maps. With the use of these maps, farmers may make well-informed decisions by
analysing crop performance, soilcharacteristics and environmental factors.

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software play in precision
farming ?
Q.5 What role does mapping
Visual maps of fields are produced by mapping software by processing data from
Ans. :
sensing. It enables farmers to better manage various areas and
sensors. GPS and remote
fields.
comprehend the spatial heterogeneity in their
operate and what are they ?
Q.6 How do yield mapping systems
vielddata is recorded via yield mapping systems. In order to ace:.
Ans. : During harvest, crop
is utilized..
identifying areas that require attention for future improvement, the data
farmers in
within a field.
build maps that illustrate vield variances
provide to irrigation techniques ?
Q.7 What benefits may ground-based sensors
whiok
: Real-time data on soil moisture levels is provided by ground-based sensors,
Ans.
when it is required. This guarantees ideal
enables farmers to administer water only where and
waste.
crop development while cutting down on water
Q.8 What benefits does remote sensing
have over conventional techniques for cron
monitoring ?
without direct personal touch is made
Ans. : A large-scale, on-going crop monitoring program
can identify problems like
possible by remote sensing. Compared to conventional methods, it
speedier corrective action.
pest infestations or nutritional deficits earlier, allowing for
techniques for crop
Q.9 What benefits does remote sensing have over conventional
monitoring ?
personal touch is made
Ans. : A large-scale, on-going crop monitoring program without direct
identify problems like
possible by remote sensing. Compared to conventional methods; it can
pest infestations or nutritional deficits earlier, allowing for speedier corrective action.
Q.10 What function does GIS serve in agricultural environmental management ?
Ans. : Farmers can examine environmental elements including soil composition, terrain and
weather trends with the aid of GIS. Utilizing this knowledge can help you choose
environmentally friendly agricultural methods that are as sustainable as possible.
Q.11 What role do yield mapping systems play in locating trouble spots in fields?
Ans. :Crop yield variances within a field are depicted on yield maps. Farmers can identify
underperforming areas and look into underlying problems, such as poor soil quality or
insufficient water availability,by evaluating these maps.
Q.12 Describe crop production modelling and list its advantages.
Ans. : With the use of mathematical models,crop production modelling forecasts crop growth
and yield in relation to environmental variables, soil properties and agricultural techniques. For
improved results, it aids farmers in activity planning and resource optimization.
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a.13 What role do sensors on the around play in precision fertilization ?

ground help
Ans. : By measuring the levels of nutrients in the soil, sensors positioncd on the
and
farmers apply fertilizers only where and in the proper quantities. As a result, less pollution
fertilizer waste are produced.
o.14 What kinds of agriculturaldata can be gathered by remote sensing 7
Ans. : A variety of data types, such as thermal, infrared and visible light imagery. can be
are
gathered by remote sensing. Temperature fluctuations, soil moisture content and crop health
allevaluated using this data.
Q.15 What is GPS-guided planting crucial for precision farming?
Ans. : Planting using GPS guidance guarantees accurate placement and depth of seeds, resulting
in increased agricultural output, reduced competition for resources and optimal plant spacing.
Q.16 How is field variability managed with the aid of GIS ?
Ans. : Farmers may examine and display spatial variability in variables like crop performance,
soil fertility and moisture using GIS. This makes site-specific management techniques possible,
raising fieldproductivity as a whole.
Q.17 Which agricultural difficulties may yield mapping systems assist address ?
Ans.: By offering data-driven insights into field conditions, yield mapping systems can assist
solve issues including inconsistent crop performance, variable soil and resource inefficiencies.
Q.18 What role does modelling crop production have in risk management ?
Ans. : With the use of crop production modelling, farmers can evaluate risks and make well
informed decisions to reduce potential losses by simulating various situations, such as changing
weather patterns or management techniques.
Q.19 What does it mean to integrate GPS with other technologies for precision agriculture ?
Ans. : The accuracy and efficiency of farming operations are improved through combining GPS
with sensors, GIS and yield mapping systems. This improves resource management and boosts
productivity.
Q.20 In precision agricuiture, how can GIS and remote sensing work together ?
Ans. : Using remote sensing data, GIS can process and analyze it to produce intricate maps that
help in decision-making. In a GIS, for instance, soil maps and data from remote sensing on crop
health can be stacked to determine the most effective management techniques.

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