Advancements in Drone Technology for Fruit Crop Management: A Comprehensive Review
Anushi
Department of Fruit Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208002), India.
Shubham Jain *
Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, ANDUAT, Ayodhya, (U.P.), India
Sudarshana Bhujel
Department of Fruit Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, India.
Ujjwal Shrivastava
Department of Fruit Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208002), India.
Rishabh
Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, ANDUAT, Ayodhya, U.P., India.
Amrita Mohapatra
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Keonjhar, OUAT Bhubaneswar, India.
Rimpika
Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Thunag, Mandi, India.
Gopa Mishra
Department of Fruit Science, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), equipped with advanced sensors and imaging capabilities, have revolutionized the way farmers monitor and manage fruit crops. Aerial surveillance enables high-resolution imaging of orchards and vineyards, allowing for early detection of diseases, pests, and other stress factors that can impact crop health. The data collected by drones facilitate precise and targeted interventions, optimizing resource use and enhancing overall crop productivity. Additionally, drones contribute to yield estimation, canopy management, and post-harvest monitoring. While the technology offers significant advantages, challenges such as payload limitations, weather sensitivity, and regulatory compliance must be addressed. Ongoing research and technological advancements are expected to overcome these limitations, further establishing drones as indispensable tools for sustainable and efficient fruit crop management. This review consolidates current knowledge, highlights emerging trends, and outlines future prospects for the integration of drone technology in fruit agriculture.
Keywords: Drones, productivity, fruit, weather, research