Is the Centre Launching a National Soil Spectral Library for Digital Agriculture?
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Synopsis
On May 17, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will lead a high-level meeting in Nagpur to discuss 'Viksit Krishi' and review vital agricultural schemes. The event will mark the launch of the National Soil Spectral Library, a key advancement in digital agriculture, along with innovative pest control technologies.
Key Takeaways
- Launch of National Soil Spectral Library to revolutionize soil analysis.
- AI Smart Trap for Pink Bollworm aims to enhance pest management.
- Collaboration among top agricultural research institutions.
- Event to recognize innovative contributions from local farmers.
- Part of India's broader initiative towards digital agriculture.
New Delhi, May 17 (NationPress) The Union Minister for Agriculture, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, is set to lead a significant stakeholder consultation on Monday focused on ‘Viksit Krishi’ and will evaluate essential agricultural and rural development programs in Nagpur, as per announcements made on Saturday.
Attending the meeting will be Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, according to a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture.
During this visit, the Union Minister will launch the National Soil Spectral Library (NSSL), a groundbreaking step in digital agriculture, which has been developed in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR)-National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning in Nagpur, the Indian Institute of Soil Science in Bhopal, and the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi.
This initiative is part of the Network Programme on Precision Agriculture, as mentioned by the Ministry of Agriculture.
The minister will also unveil an AI-driven Smart Trap for Pink Bollworm, a significant pest affecting cotton crops.
This innovative technology, developed by the ICAR-Central Institute of Cotton Research in Nagpur, utilizes advanced machine learning algorithms for precise pest management. Progressive farmers from the region will be honored during the event for their innovative contributions to agriculture.
As stated by the ministry, the establishment of the National Soil Spectral Library marks a pivotal moment in India's transition towards digital agriculture. This library will enable a contactless, swift, and cost-effective approach to soil analysis, superseding traditional wet chemistry testing methods.
The soil spectral data, showcasing the diverse agro-climatic zones of India, will be formally dedicated to the nation by the Union Minister.
Chouhan will be accompanied by the Secretary (DARE) and Director General of ICAR, Dr. Mangi Lal Jat, along with other senior officials, including Deputy Director Generals, Assistant Director General, Directors of Maharashtra-based ICAR institutes, Vice Chancellors of State Agricultural Universities (SAUs), and additional dignitaries.
Point of View
The establishment of the National Soil Spectral Library is a commendable step towards modernizing agriculture in India. It reflects a commitment to embracing technology for improving agricultural practices, which can significantly benefit farmers across the nation. By supporting initiatives like this, India is paving the way for sustainable agricultural growth.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Soil Spectral Library?
The National Soil Spectral Library is a pioneering initiative aimed at providing rapid and cost-effective soil analysis using advanced spectral data.
Who is launching the National Soil Spectral Library?
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will officially launch the National Soil Spectral Library.
Where will the launch take place?
The launch will take place in Nagpur, Maharashtra.
What technology is being introduced for pest control?
An AI-based Smart Trap for Pink Bollworm will be launched, utilizing machine learning for effective pest management.
Why is the National Soil Spectral Library important?
It marks a significant advancement in India's digital agriculture efforts, facilitating more efficient soil analysis compared to traditional methods.
