The Ministry of Agriculture has released standard operating procedure (SoP) for use of drones for the purpose of spraying pesticides on agriculture crops. Releasing the SoP, the  ministry said, in recent years, use of drones in agriculture has gained prominence and some states are actively engaged in checking the suitability of this new technology in agriculture.     

"Application of pesticides using drones has great potential as we move towards commercialization and achieving precision in agricultural crops," it said.  According to the ministry, the SoP for drone regulation for pesticide application covers important aspects like statutory provisions, flying permissions, area distance restrictions, weight classification, overcrowded areas restriction, drone registration, safety insurance, piloting certification, operation plan, air flight zones, weather conditions.    

 It also covers SOPs for pre, post and during operation period, emergency handling plan, etc.  The aerial application of pesticides through drones will be allowed subject to certain provisions.  For instance, operators should use only approved pesticides and their formulations at approved concentration and height.    

Operators have to ensure washing decontamination and first-aid facilities and notify the public about aerial application of pesticide not less than 24 hours in advance through competent authorities. Further, the pilots should undergo training including clinical effects of insecticides, the ministry added.   However, drone-based spray requires less amount of water, as well as pesticides, due to better application and bioefficiency.