Precision agriculture has changed farming by making it possible to manage crops and soil more closely, improving productivity, and reducing waste.

Precision farming constitutes the largest segment within India's smart agriculture market, accounting for over 50% of the revenue share in 2024. If you are involved in farming or agri-business, exploring precision agriculture gives you new ways to get better results from the land you work.

This blog explains the precision agriculture definition, how it functions, its benefits, the technologies involved, and practical steps you can take to apply it on your farm.

What is Precision Agriculture?

The precision agriculture definition is managing farming inputs and practices in a detailed, site-specific manner rather than applying the same methods uniformly across a whole field. 

It involves collecting data on soil, weather, crop health, and other factors, and using that information to make informed, targeted decisions.

Instead of guessing how much fertiliser or water a whole field needs, you adjust the inputs for each part of the field based on its individual conditions. This tailored approach improves efficiency and productivity.

How Does Precision Agriculture Work?

Precision agriculture continuously monitors field variables through sensors, satellites, drones, and other devices. This data is then analysed to create maps and models that show the exact needs of different areas in your field.

You might use GPS-guided machinery to apply fertilisers or pesticides at variable rates or irrigation systems controlled by soil moisture data to deliver water precisely when and where it's needed.

This cycle of measuring, analysing, and adjusting inputs repeats regularly throughout the growing season.

Why is Precision Agriculture Necessary?

You may have noticed that fields are rarely uniform. Soil quality, moisture, nutrient levels, and pest pressure vary across short distances. Treating a whole field the same way can lead to under- or over-application of inputs.

Example: A study conducted in the tribal-dominated Jhabua district involved collecting 303 GPS-based surface soil samples across five tehsils. Approximately 69.6% of soil samples were deficient in nitrogen, 38.0% in phosphorus, and 57.8% in potassium. 

The study highlighted the utility of geo-referenced soil sampling and GIS-based mapping in preparing soil fertility maps, which can guide site-specific nutrient management and balanced fertilisation strategies.  

Precision agriculture addresses these variations, helping you avoid wasting expensive resources and reducing environmental impact. With increasing fertiliser costs, water scarcity, and rising demand for food, managing your inputs carefully can improve both profitability and sustainability.

What are the Benefits of Precision Agriculture?

Using precision agriculture offers several advantages for your farm:

• Increased Yields: Targeted input application supports optimal plant growth in every area.

• Input Savings: Avoid unnecessary fertilizer, water, or pesticide use.

• Better Environmental Protection: Reduce runoff and pollution by applying chemicals only where needed.

• Improved Crop Quality: Maintain consistent conditions that improve crop uniformity and quality.

• Reduced Labour: Automation and remote monitoring cut down manual labour needs.

• Data-Driven Feedback: Continuous feedback allows for timely interventions.

• Risk Management: Early detection of pests, diseases, or stress helps prevent losses.

Also Read: A Complete Guide on Agriculture Drone- Application & How to Use?

These benefits contribute to healthier crops, lower costs, and a smaller environmental footprint.

What are the Core Principles and Concepts of Precision Agriculture?

To apply precision agriculture, consider these core ideas:

• Spatial Variability: Recognise soil, topography, and crop health differences within your fields.

• Temporal Variability: Account for changes such as weather patterns and crop development stages over time.

• Site-Specific Management: Tailor interventions based on specific conditions at precise locations.

• Data Collection and Analysis: Use sensors and analytics tools to measure and interpret variables accurately.

• Integration of Technologies: Combine multiple tools, GPS, drones, and IoT sensors for deep management.

• Feedback Loops: Continuously monitor and adjust practices based on observed results.

What are the Components of Precision Agriculture?

Key components that work together include:

• Data Acquisition Tools: Soil sensors, weather stations, drones, satellite imagery.

• Data Management Systems: Farm management software and cloud platforms that store and analyse data.

• Guidance Systems: GPS and RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) technology for machinery navigation.

• Variable Rate Technology (VRT): Equipment that can change input application rates on the go.

• Decision Support Tools: Models and apps that interpret data and recommend actions.

Each part plays a role in enabling precise control over inputs and field management.

Tools and Technologies Used in Precision Agriculture

The following technologies are commonly used:

These tools work together to give you detailed insights and control.

How to Get Started with Precision Agriculture?

The methodical approach of precision agriculture integrates technology to improve productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in farming.

1. Field Mapping & Data Collection

Precision agriculture starts with understanding the variability within your farm. Not all parts of a field are equal; soil types, fertility, moisture, and topography vary significantly, even within a few acres.

• Use GPS-enabled devices or mobile apps to map field boundaries.

• Conduct soil sampling and lab testing to determine texture, organic matter, pH, and nutrient levels.

• Assess differences in vegetation health and soil conditions using remote sensing, satellite imagery, or drones with multispectral cameras.

• Create baseline maps (fertility, moisture, elevation) using GIS software.

Goal: Establish a solid understanding of your land’s spatial variation to make data-informed decisions.

2. Choose the Right Technology for Your Scale

Adopt tools and platforms suited to your farm size, crop type, and budget. Not all farms require expensive machinery; many precision ag tools are scalable. Options Include:

• Handheld Devices: Soil moisture sensors, EC meters, pH testers.

• Drones: For real-time monitoring, aerial imaging, and spraying.

• IoT Sensors: For real-time soil temperature, humidity, and leaf wetness tracking.

• Farm Management Software (FMS): Platforms like CropIn, FarmLogs, or KisanHub help integrate weather data, crop cycles, and input planning.

Pro Tip: Start small and test tech on one section before scaling to the entire farm.

3. Set Up Precision Equipment

Your machinery should support variable rate technology (VRT) and GPS guidance systems to efficiently apply inputs (like fertilisers, seeds, and water).

• VRT-enabled Sprayers/Spreaders: Apply different input doses in specific field zones based on need.

• Auto-Steer Tractors or Retrofit Kits: Reduce overlaps and gaps, saving fuel and time.

• Smart Irrigation Systems: Adjust water application based on soil moisture and evapotranspiration data.

Outcome: Reduce waste, save costs, and minimise environmental impact.

4. Integrate and Analyse Data

The heart of precision agriculture is combining inputs from multiple sources for real-time insights.

Data Sources:

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Analysis Tools:

• NDVI (Normalised Difference Vegetation Index) maps to assess crop health.

• Predictive analytics for pest and disease outbreaks.

• Yield monitoring to compare actual vs. expected output.

Use: Apply nitrogen only in low-chlorophyll areas based on NDVI analysis.

5. Use Adaptive Management

Precision agriculture is not “set and forget”; you must constantly monitor and adapt.

Practices:

• Conduct seasonal soil tests to recalibrate input strategies.

• Adjust irrigation and nutrition plans based on plant growth stages.

• Use drone surveillance to identify emerging issues (pests, weeds, stress).

• Maintain digital field records for traceability and crop planning.

Best Practice: Schedule regular drone flights and data reviews every 10–15 days.

6. Train Yourself and Your Team

Technology is only as good as its users. Invest in:

• Workshops, online courses, and training sessions on precision tools.

• Collaboration with agri-tech service providers, local agri universities, or KVKs (Krishi Vigyan Kendras).

• Pilot programs on smaller plots to build confidence and learn iteratively.

Leher gives you access to drone-based mapping and spraying, helping you detect variations in your field and apply inputs exactly where needed. With advanced sensors, GPS-enabled drones, and real-time crop insights, you can reduce input use by up to 40%, save 90% of water, and improve yields without owning expensive equipment. 

Just Book, Spray, Pay, it’s precision agriculture, made simple. Download the Leher app from the Play Store and Apple Store today. 

What are the Techniques in Precision Agriculture?

Techniques you can apply include:

• Variable Rate Fertilisation: Apply fertilisers based on nutrient needs mapped at sub-field levels.

• Precision Irrigation: Use soil moisture data to irrigate only when and where necessary.

• Yield Monitoring: Equip harvesters with sensors to record yield variability.

• Crop Scouting with Drones: Use drone imagery to detect pests or diseases early.

• Controlled Traffic Farming: Restrict machinery movement to specific lanes to reduce soil compaction.

• Site-Specific Pest Management: Target pesticide application to affected areas only.

• Soil Amendment Based on Maps: Apply lime or organic matter in specific zones needing correction.

Combining these techniques maximises input efficiency.

Also Read: The Best Agriculture Drones for Farmers in India - Leher

You don’t have to buy everything at once; start small and expand as you become comfortable.

What are the Pros and Cons of Precision Agriculture?

The pros and cons of the precision agriculture definition are as follows:

Knowing both sides helps you plan for precision agriculture carefully.

What are the Economic and Environmental Benefits?

By reducing unnecessary fertiliser, pesticide, and water use, you can save money and reduce pollution. Higher yields and better quality improve income, and reducing runoff protects soil and water bodies.

Automation lowers labour costs and reduces physical strain. Precise application can delay soil degradation and improve long-term farm sustainability.

The combination of financial savings and environmental care supports farming that lasts.

What are the Challenges of Precision Agriculture?

You may face obstacles such as:

• High upfront costs for sensors, drones, and machinery.

• Lack of technical skills or training.

• Limited access to affordable technology in some regions.

• Connectivity issues are impacting real-time data transfer.

• Data overload without clear interpretation tools.

• Resistance to changing traditional practices.

Overcoming these challenges requires patience, continuous learning, and sometimes external support.

Leher supports farmers by enabling access to drone services without the need for costly equipment. Over 2,100 farmers have already benefited from affordable, on-demand spraying and monitoring. With 100+ trained drone entrepreneurs across regions, Leher offers expert support to simplify technology use. 

What are the Applications of Precision Agriculture?

Precision agriculture applies to:

1. Crop Production

Modern agriculture leverages precision farming techniques to enhance the cultivation of cereals like wheat and rice, vegetables, fruits, and speciality crops such as tree nuts and horticultural products.

Example: The USDA defines speciality crops as “fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture)”. In Illinois, the Department of Agriculture supports the speciality crop industry through grants aimed at enhancing research and student engagement in agriculture.

2. Livestock Management

Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) employs technologies like wearable sensors and GPS tracking to monitor animal health and pasture conditions.

Example: Researchers in Oklahoma have fitted beef cattle with special collars to monitor their movements and behaviour, allowing for better estimates of the relationship between individual animals' use of the pasture and its productivity.

3. Greenhouse Farming

Advanced greenhouse systems use climate control technologies to regulate temperature, humidity, light, and CO₂ levels, optimising plant growth and yield.

Example: A study on greenhouse climate control highlights how balancing these environmental parameters can maximise plant growth and general health.

4. Soil Conservation

Soil conservation practices are vital for sustainable agriculture. Techniques such as agroforestry have been identified as effective solutions for managing soil salinity and enhancing soil and environmental health. 

Additionally, conservation practices like scraping, flushing, leaching, and bioamelioration methods prevent soil degradation due to salinity and sodicity.

5. Water Management

Efficient water management is crucial in regions facing water scarcity.  Innovative irrigation strategies, including the use of treated wastewater and saline waters, have been discussed to optimise water use in agriculture.

Example: In Punjab, India, a method called Seeding of Rice on Beds (SRB) has been introduced, using just 20%-25% of the water required in conventional paddy farming.

6. Disease and Pest Control

Technologies like remote sensing and machine learning facilitate the early detection of plant diseases and pests.

Example: A generalisable and interpretable model has been developed for early warning of pest outbreaks, allowing for timely and targeted interventions to prevent widespread crop damage.

7. Yield Mapping and Forecasting

Yield mapping involves collecting georeferenced data on crop yield and characteristics during harvest, aiding in understanding field variability and optimising input use.

Example: Yield monitoring and mapping systems help detect field variability and understand where input use is efficient or wasteful.

Its flexibility makes it suitable for many types of farming systems.

How Leher Can Help You With Precision Agriculture?

Leher makes precision farming accessible to farmers across India by offering cutting-edge tools and services without requiring heavy investment or technical expertise. Here's how Leher supports precision agriculture:

• Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS): Leher provides on-demand drone spraying to apply fertilisers and pesticides precisely where needed. Drones can cover up to 50 acres a day, drastically speeding up farm operations.

• AI-Powered Crop Monitoring: Leher monitors crop health at a granular level. Farmers receive timely alerts on pest attacks, water stress, or nutrient deficiencies, allowing early intervention.

• Field Zoning and Mapping: Using data collected by drones and sensors, Leher generates field maps that show variations in soil and crop health. This enables site-specific treatments, reducing waste and increasing efficiency.

• Flexible Equipment Leasing & Sales: Leher also offers sales and leasing options for drones and precision agriculture tools. If you own 5 acres or 500, you can choose the right tech for your budget and needs, plus get complete training and support.

• Training & Support Programs: Leher provides training, onboarding, and ongoing support, helping farmers, agri-preneurs, and drone operators learn how to interpret and use data effectively.

Using Leher’s precision agriculture services, farmers can increase yields by 15–20%, reduce pesticide and fertiliser use by up to 25%.

Schedule a free call with our Experts, and download the Leher app from the Play Store and Apple Store today.