Drone Survey Conducted in Sullia by ISRO–CPCRI Team to Study Yellow Leaf Disease in Arecanut

Drone Survey Conducted in Sullia by ISRO–CPCRI Team to Study Yellow Leaf Disease in Arecanut

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Nov. 16, 2025: The Central Government has initiated an advanced drone-based aerial survey in Sullia taluk to scientifically examine the symptoms, spread, and severity of yellow leaf disease affecting arecanut plantations, according to MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta.

The move follows a representation made in August by a joint delegation comprising MPs from Karnataka’s arecanut-growing districts, state ministers, and arecanut growers’ associations. The delegation met Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Chouhan in Delhi to highlight the severe losses faced by growers due to diseases such as leaf spot and yellow leaf disease. MP Capt. Chowta had urged the Centre to address the crisis and commission a comprehensive, long-term scientific study through a reputed research institution.

Acting on this request, the Central Government has deployed a specialised team. The Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), Kasaragod; ISRO’s research division in Bengaluru; and ISRO’s Aerial Wing in Hyderabad are jointly conducting the survey. Drone mapping is underway in Aranthodu and Peraje villages of Sullia taluk, covering 2.5 sq. km.

High-resolution photographs and videos of arecanut leaves are being captured using advanced drones. These images will undergo detailed analysis and be integrated with ISRO satellite data to enable large-scale mapping of yellow leaf disease beyond the initial survey sites.

Terming it a significant step toward combating the disease, Capt. Chowta said the survey will provide accurate scientific data, allow continuous monitoring of affected trees, and offer insights into the speed and pattern of disease transmission across the region.