NEW DELHI, 22 September 2023: A groundbreaking analysis conducted by Skye Air, a pioneering drone delivery logistics provider, has uncovered the immense potential of drone technology to transform India's agri-commodity landscape.
Titled "Transforming India's Fresh Fruits and Vegetable Industry: Drone Delivery for Minimizing Wastage and Empowering Farmers," this comprehensive report reveals the significant post-harvest losses in the fresh fruits and vegetable sector and how drone delivery can address these challenges, benefit farmers, and enhance the sustainability of the supply chain.
India has long grappled with the issue of post-harvest losses in the fresh fruits and vegetable sector, amounting to a staggering 30-40% annually. These losses, estimated at approximately Rs. 13,300 crores ($1.8 billion) by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), primarily result from spoilage, inadequate storage facilities, inefficient transportation, and limited market access.
In response to these challenges, Skye Air's analysis highlights the transformative potential of drone-based delivery systems in the agri-commodity industry. A pilot project conducted by the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE) demonstrated a reduction of approximately 20% in wastage through the use of drones to transport fresh produce, showcasing the effectiveness of this innovative solution.
Ankit Kumar, Founder & CEO of Skye Air, emphasized the broader impact of drone technology on the environment and the agricultural supply chain, stating, "By shifting a significant portion of transportation from road to drone delivery, farmers can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and promote environmentally sustainable practices. The implementation of drone delivery in the fresh fruits and vegetable industry offers cost savings, time savings, and contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions. These benefits enhance the profitability of farmers, enable quicker delivery of fresh produce, and promote environmental sustainability in the agricultural supply chain."
A study published in the International Journal of Scientific Research and Management (IJSRM) further underscores the potential of drone delivery. The research reveals that the adoption of drone-based delivery systems could potentially reduce post-harvest losses in the agriculture sector by up to 50%.
The embrace of drone technology carries significant economic advantages for all stakeholders involved. Farmers stand to benefit from increased revenue due to reduced post-harvest losses, while consumers gain improved access to high-quality produce at stable prices. This transition to more sustainable and efficient practices also contributes to the overall growth of the agriculture sector and bolsters the nation's GDP.
