A revolutionary soil testing system for agriculture has been developed, utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet-of-Things (IoT) technology. This innovative system aims to provide faster results, accurate analysis, and immediate action for farmers and agricultural scientists. The core of the system is an Android app connected to a platform that can conduct 12 key soil parameter tests and deliver results in just 30 minutes. These results are then sent as a summary in a soil health card to the mobile devices of various stakeholders.
Compared to the traditional testing time of 3-4 hours, this new system significantly reduces the waiting time for soil analysis. The 12 parameters tested by the machine include pH value, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, nitrogen, and zinc. The machine, measuring 45x37x44 cm and weighing 12.55 kg, is priced at ₹2.12 lakhs, including GST.
The soil testing system, known as Bhu-Vision or Krishi-RASTAA Soil Testing Equipment, was launched by the Indian Institute of Rice Research (IIRR). It is a joint development between the IIRR and KrishiTantra, manufactured by HiMedia Laboratories, and marketed by BhoomiSeva (HCF Tech Services Pvt Ltd). During the launch event, 25 Bhu-Vision devices were handed over to the IIRR team by HCF Tech Services.
R M Sundaram, Director of the IIRR, stressed the importance of collaboration between private partners and institutes to develop and commercialize products beneficial to farmers not only in India but also in other SAARC and South-East Asian countries. P Muthuraman, a senior scientist with the IIRR, emphasized the need for farmers to receive training in testing soil health. He views the IIRR as a platform to offer such initiatives.
Melind Deshpande, Managing Director, and CEO of HCF Tech Private Limited, shared the company’s plans to further advance this technology. Deshpande described a ‘shop-in-shop’ model, which can be adopted by village-level entrepreneurs (VLEs).
This revolutionary soil testing system has the potential to transform agriculture by providing fast and accurate analysis of soil health. It enables farmers to quickly identify any deficiencies and take corrective measures. With its advanced technology and efficient testing process, this system aims to enhance agricultural productivity and support sustainable farming practices.
