In a groundbreaking move, drones are being utilized for the first time in Tripura to combat a widespread outbreak of phytophthora, a devastating fungal infection that is threatening rubber production in the state.
The innovative pilot operation took place at the Rubber Board’s Taranagar farm in West Tripura, following the rapid spread of the disease across three major rubber-growing districts – Gomati, Sepahijala, and West Tripura. Phytophthora infection causes premature leaf fall and disrupts latex flow, resulting in significant crop losses for rubber plantations.
The Rubber Board of India highlighted the urgency and commitment behind the initiative, noting that drones had to be transported over 2,400 km from Coimbatore to Agartala due to their unavailability locally. This move marks a significant milestone as advanced technology reaches growers’ fields in the Northeast region, promising a new era of precision and efficiency in plant protection.
Joint Rubber Production Commissioner N. Sali informed PTI that approximately 2000 hectares of rubber plantations in the three affected districts were hit by the fungal infection. The spraying of fungicides through drones is expected to continue at full capacity, with reports indicating a decline in the spread of the infection. This service will be provided free of cost to the affected growers.
The outbreak of phytophthora was reportedly triggered by this year’s unusual weather pattern, characterized by prolonged rainfall followed by heat and humidity. In response to the crisis, the All Tripura Krishak Sabha, led by Secretary Pabitra Kar, met with officials on August 30 to urge immediate action to save the plantations. Subsequent investigations confirmed the presence of phytophthora as the cause of the disease.
Tripura, the second-largest producer of natural rubber in India after Kerala, boasts over 1.1 lakh hectares under rubber cultivation and an annual production of approximately 1.1 lakh metric tonnes. The introduction of drone technology to combat fungal infections represents a significant step forward in ensuring the sustainability and productivity of rubber plantations in the region.
