With rapid advancements in science, the future of GIS and RS primarily holds drone-based mapping technology as the predominant option for MSSRF

Geographic Information System (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) tools have been a significant phenomenon in revolutionising the nation. These tools are primarily advantageous in the sense that they are non-labour intensive, non-time consuming and cost effective. By just running a few algorithms and satellite imaging, an entire map of India can be readily produced. Such advancements in GIS and RS technologies can be used to accurately scan districts, states, and even the entire nation.

Currently, GIS and RS-based apps are becoming significant (like the PANNAI app). These apps use RS to produce ten metre per pixel satellite images every 15 days to monitor the farm. Once an image is produced, appropriate action plans are taken. For instance, in the case of the PANNAI app, after an image is taken, a pest management plan is formulated using Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) algorithms. Based on different indices, a map is then produced where the affected areas are identified. Once identified, these maps are superimposed on top of a Cadastral map, which can then be used to determine which farmer’s land is going to be affected and he/she can be notified in time.

The future of GIS and RS at MSSRF seems to incline towards drone-based mapping technology and precision agriculture. GIS and RS serve as the backbone of precision agriculture. With drones gaining more popularity, the government of India has been offering more subsidies for drones-based mapping. Pesticide spraying drones and fertiliser spraying drones are becoming more common. These drones are based on the concept of remote sensing, functioning similarly to GIS and RS.

For instance, the drones would identify a patch of land. Soon after, a fertiliser drone would be sent forth to spray that particular patch of land instead of the entire farmland. This way, only a small amount of fertiliser is used. This also helps in protecting the environment by not exposing the entire farm to fertilisers. With such technologies progressing, GIS and RS have only more advancements in store for the future.

*With inputs from Mr. R. Nagarajan, Head-GIS & Remote Sensing, MSSRF Chennai.