Maharashtra: Automated weather stations to be installed for farmers

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], Apr 30 (ANI): The Maharashtra Government on Sunday successfully installed first-of-its-kind automated weather stations for the farmers in the region. Being the first state in India to implement this technology, the government is aiming to install a total of 2065 units at the village/mandal level. The weather stations have been designed in a manner to accurately predict rainfall patterns and level of humidity present in the area. Furthermore, the machines are also equipped to guide farmers on the best crop available for them to cultivate. Earlier today, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the state's first unit in Dongargaon. Digital kiosks are being provided in every Gram Panchayat providing weather information and expert advice on crop pattern to be followed by the farmers. Initially, information will be shared using SMSes, followed by half-hourly updates on the weather conditions. The same will also be made accessible to farmers on the Mahavedh portal (Maharashtra agriculture weather information network), along with a mobile application of Skymet. This development comes even as the state reported many farmer suicides owing to the destruction of their crops. (ANI)