Tech Boost for Smart Agriculture

Iran’s agricultural sector is getting a tech boost with 20 projects coming on stream with the backing of Agriculture Ministry and the private sector.
The ministry is supporting the project through its affiliate, Agricultural Research, Education and Expansion Organization. 
Hossein Farazmand, secretary of Smart Agriculture Headquarters at AREEO, said these tech-based projects are focused on irrigation, poultry and livestock breeding, farming, orchard farming and smart greenhouses, IRNA reported.
“Development of smart irrigation systems is one of the projects confirmed by the Agriculture Ministry, which has received the operating license,” Farazmand said.
Farmers owning large tracts of lands find it difficult to physically monitor and manage them. For instance, uneven or excessive watering spoils crops and leads to financial losses. Smart irrigation can help address this issue.
“A smart irrigation system using the internet of things technology is helpful and leads to ease of farming. The system uses soil moisture sensors, making sure of adequate irrigation and curbing water waste,” the official explained.
An agricultural data monitoring center has also been launched experimentally.