Partnership to Expand Drone Spraying Services

Agri-solutions provider Coromandel International Limited and Mahindra & Mahindra Limited's farm equipment sector (FES) business vertical Krish-e have announced a strategic partnership to extend Coromandel's drone spraying services, Gromor Drive, to farmers across India.

Currently operational in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, Gromor Drive's operations are supported by RPTO-trained pilots. Coromandel's drone services are positioned in the market through the support of its subsidiary, Chennai-based Dhaksha Unmanned Systems, which ensures reliable drone supply, pilot training, and service support.

The partnership further enhances accessibility to these services via the 'Krish-e Kheti Ke Liye App,' along with other technology-driven farm solutions offered by Mahindra's FES, aimed at sustainably maximizing farmers' income and benefiting the broader agricultural value chain.

During the (non-binding) MoU signing event, Coromandel's chief operating officer, fertiliser business, Amir Alvi, said: "It is a pivotal moment in our journey towards transforming the agricultural landscape of India by making drone spraying accessible to farmers. We aim to reduce their input costs, increase productivity and improve farm profitability through this collaboration."

Hemant Sikka, president – farm equipment sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, added: "It is a significant step towards enhancing productivity and lowering a farmer's exposure to powerful chemicals. Drone technology can enable selective spraying of fertiliser and chemicals on crops, while also ensuring improved yield."