First real-time climate monitoring for coconut farms
Smart Climate Sensors Combat Coconut Disease in Tamil Nadu: In a first-of-its-kind initiative in Tamil Nadu, real-time climate monitoring systems have been introduced to protect coconut farms in Pollachi, located in the Coimbatore district. The move comes amid growing concerns about the spread of Root Wilt Disease, which has been threatening coconut production in the region.
Technology developed by Phytec
The new system has been developed by Bengaluru-based company Phytec. These are solar-powered, low-cost sensors designed to monitor key environmental factors like temperature, humidity, rainfall, and solar radiation. The collected data is aimed at improving crop planning, disease response, and future diversification strategies.
Disease that threatens coconut cultivation
Root Wilt Disease is caused by a phytoplasma—a type of bacteria-like organism without a cell wall. It is mainly spread by insect vectors such as whiteflies and leafhoppers. The disease weakens trees, reduces yield, and can eventually lead to the tree’s death.
In Pollachi alone, over 10 lakh coconut trees have been affected across Anamalai, Pollachi North, and South blocks. Of these, nearly one lakh trees have already been removed to prevent further spread.
Static GK fact: Coconut is known as the ‘Kalpavriksha’ in India due to its versatile uses. India is the third-largest producer of coconuts globally, after Indonesia and the Philippines.
A model for other states
With Tamil Nadu being a leading coconut-producing state, this experiment may serve as a model for disease surveillance and smart agriculture in other coconut-growing regions like Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
Static GK fact: Tamil Nadu ranks second in coconut production in India, after Kerala, contributing over 30% to the national output.
Push for smart farming and sustainability
The integration of technology in agriculture is becoming increasingly crucial in tackling climate change-related challenges, crop diseases, and ensuring sustainable farming. Real-time data helps in timely decision-making, reducing crop loss, and maintaining soil health.
Static GK Tip: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has established the All India Coordinated Research Project on Palms (AICRP-Palms) for research on coconut and other palms.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Smart Climate Sensors Combat Coconut Disease in Tamil Nadu:
| Topic | Detail |
| Location of initiative | Pollachi, Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu |
| Technology developer | Phytec (Bengaluru-based) |
| Power source for sensors | Solar |
| Disease monitored | Root Wilt Disease |
| Cause of disease | Phytoplasma |
| Disease vectors | Whiteflies, leafhoppers |
| Trees affected | Over 10 lakh |
| Trees removed | Nearly 1 lakh |
| Coconut ranking (global) | India ranks 3rd |
| Top coconut-producing states | Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka |
