Director, ARI Organized Lecture on “Robotics in Weed Management” under Technical Club on 20.02.2026

The Technical Club of ARI, initiated by Dr. Y. Chandra Mohan, Director (ARI), aims to facilitate the dissemination and discussion of recent scientific advances and emerging technologies in agriculture. In this connection a technical lecture titled “Robotics in Weed Management”, was delivered by Dr. B. Padmaja, Principal Scientist & Head, AICRP on Weed Management Unit, ARI at 2:00 PM onwards in the Seminar Hall of the Rice Research Unit. Dr. B. Padmaja elaborated on recent advancements in robotics, precision weed management, highlighting the Robotic weeder, laser weeding technology and microwave weeders, integration of artificial intelligence, machine vision, and sensor-based technologies in sustainable agriculture. She emphasized the role of robotic interventions in reducing herbicide usage, minimizing labour dependency, and enhancing operational efficiency in crop production systems. Further updated the status of PJTAU in robotic weed management i.e., validation of X machine and SBI ARISA. Scientists, of ARI attended the session and actively participated in the interactive discussion that followed. The lecture provided valuable insights into emerging technologies and their potential applications in modern agricultural research and field-level weed management strategies. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by the Technical Club, appreciating the speaker for her informative and thought-provoking presentation.