The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) recently organized a specialized training program for the field staff of Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, Bokaro, focusing on the use of satellite technology for data collection of Kharif and Rabi crops at Bhubasware. This initiative marks an important step toward integrating advanced digital tools into grassroots agricultural practices in Odisha. During the training, participants were introduced to the fundamentals of remote sensing, satellite imagery interpretation, and ground truthing methods. The sessions highlighted how satellite data can be effectively used for crop mapping, monitoring growth stages, assessing stress conditions, and yield forecasting. Practical demonstrations and hands-on exercises allowed field staff to gain confidence in using these modern tools for real-time data collection and analysis.
Experts from IRRI emphasized that the adoption of satellite-based crop monitoring systems can significantly enhance decision-making in agriculture, reduce manual errors, and improve the efficiency of extension services. By harnessing these technologies, the Jharkhand Foundation Kendra field teams will be better equipped to provide farmers with timely advisories, helping them manage resources efficiently and adapt to challenges such as climate variability.
