Astana (TDI): In a significant move to modernize its agricultural sector, Kazakhstan is exploring the potential of agro-drones, which could revolutionize farming practices across the country.
During a government meeting, officials discussed the environmental and economic benefits of adopting drones in agriculture, particularly as a more efficient alternative to traditional spraying equipment.
International examples have shown that agro-drones offer substantial advantages over conventional methods.
Drones can reduce water consumption, cut down on CO2 emissions, and reach areas that are otherwise difficult to access.
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Sanzhar Nurgazinov, a representative of a company operating agro-drones, pointed out the dramatic difference in water usage between wheeled sprayers and drones.
While a wheeled sprayer requires 150 liters of water per hectare—amounting to 750,000 liters for 5,000 hectares—a drone only needs 50,000 liters for the same area, reducing water consumption by more than 15 times.
Drones Help Prevent Crop Loss
Additionally, drones help prevent the 6% crop loss caused by the tracks left by wheeled sprayers, ensuring better crop yields.
To accelerate the adoption of agro-drones, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Agriculture has partnered with Chinese company Eavision, which will supply 80 drones for pest and disease management.
A new joint venture, Sunkar Eavision International LLP, has also been established in the Alatau Special Economic Zone near Almaty to assemble drones locally.
The Ministry has been tasked with creating a comprehensive roadmap for integrating agro-drones into Kazakhstan’s agricultural practices, with a target completion date of February 2025.
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The plan will include the establishment of service centers, the training of specialists, and the development of financial support programs to help farmers adopt this cutting-edge technology.
By embracing agro-drones, Kazakhstan hopes to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of its agriculture, tackling pressing issues like water conservation and crop protection while positioning itself at the forefront of modern farming techniques.