CHAAYANKAN: Tea Board, ISRO-NRSC and NIT Rourkela Launch AI-Based Project

Why in News?

The Tea Board of India, in collaboration with the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) of ISRO and NIT Rourkela, has launched CHAAYANKAN, a research and development project to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) and geospatial technology for better monitoring of tea plantations.

Important Points

• The full name of CHAAYANKAN is “Comprehensive AI-based Geospatial Data Analytics for Tea Plantation Monitoring.”
• The project is planned to continue until March 2029.
• Uses AI, satellite data, drones and weather information. 
• Helps in tea-garden mapping, crop-health monitoring, pest/disease detection and yield estimation. 
• Initially focuses on Assam, West Bengal, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. 
• Aim: Improve tea productivity and provide better data for policymaking.

What is CHAAYANKAN?

• CHAAYANKAN is an AI-based technology project designed to collect, analyse and use geographical and environmental data to monitor tea plantations.
• It will combine satellite data, drone-based information, weather data, field observations and Artificial Intelligence to provide a detailed picture of tea-growing areas.

Key Features of CHAAYANKAN

1. Mapping of Tea Plantations

The system will use satellite and geospatial data to identify and map tea gardens accurately.

2. Monitoring Crop Health

AI will help assess the health and condition of tea plants by analysing satellite images and other field data.

3. Early Detection of Pests and Diseases

The system will help identify early signs of pest attacks and diseases, allowing tea growers to take timely action.

4. Estimation of Green Leaf Yield

CHAAYANKAN will use data and AI models to estimate the quantity of green tea leaves that can be produced.

5. Use of Weather Data

Weather information such as temperature, rainfall and other environmental conditions will be used to understand their impact on tea plantations.

6. Use of Drones and Satellite Technology

Drones will provide detailed field-level information, while satellites will help monitor large tea-growing areas.

States Covered Under the Project

The project will initially focus on major tea-producing states, including:

• Assam
• West Bengal
• Kerala
• Tamil Nadu

These states are among India's important tea-growing regions.

How Will AI Help?

CHAAYANKAN will use Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to analyse large amounts of plantation-related data. It will also use real-time field data and insect-related studies to improve the identification of pest risks and support better plantation management.

Organisations Involved

What is Geospatial Technology?

Geospatial technology refers to technologies used to collect, analyse and display information linked to a particular location on Earth. It includes technologies such as satellite imagery, remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and GPS.

What is Remote Sensing?

Remote sensing means collecting information about an object or area without directly coming into physical contact with it. In this project, satellite images and other remote-sensing technologies will help monitor tea plantations over large areas.

Significance of CHAAYANKAN

The project can help make tea plantation management more scientific, efficient and data-driven.

It is expected to:

• Improve monitoring of tea gardens.
• Help detect pests and diseases at an early stage.
• Improve crop-health assessment.
• Provide better estimates of green leaf production.
• Support farmers and tea growers in making timely decisions.
• Provide policymakers with better and more reliable data.
• Strengthen the productivity and sustainability of India's tea sector.

Conclusion

CHAAYANKAN represents the use of AI, satellite technology, drones, weather data and field information to modernise tea plantation monitoring in India. By providing timely and accurate information, the project aims to improve productivity for tea growers and support better policymaking for India's tea industry.

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