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The National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) is a digital, AI-driven initiative launched by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare to modernise pest management practices and strengthen decision-making at the farm level. Introduced in August 2024, NPSS aims to provide timely, scientific, and location-specific pest advisories to farmers across India.

What is NPSS?

• NPSS is a technology-based pest monitoring and advisory platform that leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML).
• It comprises a user-friendly mobile application and a web portal, ensuring accessibility even for small and marginal farmers.
• The platform enables direct interaction between farmers and agricultural scientists/experts, including advisory support over phone.

Objectives

• Reduce farmers’ dependence on pesticide retailers, who often promote excessive or inappropriate chemical use.
• Promote a scientific and evidence-based approach to pest and disease management.
• Minimise crop losses due to pest attacks and improve overall agricultural productivity.
• Encourage judicious pesticide use, supporting sustainable and environmentally responsible farming.

Key Features

• AI/ML-based pest identification using real-time field data.
• Continuous pest surveillance and monitoring across agro-climatic zones.
• Automated and customised advisories based on crop type, pest incidence, and local conditions.
• Real-time analytics and dashboards to track pest trends and outbreaks.
• Seamless connectivity between farmers, scientists, and extension services.

How the System Works

• Farmers upload field information (such as crop stage and pest symptoms) via the app or portal.
• AI and ML algorithms analyse data to detect patterns and predict pest outbreaks.
• Expert-validated advisories are generated and communicated promptly, enabling early and preventive action.

Benefits to Farmers

• Quick response to pest and disease outbreaks, reducing yield losses.
• Actionable insights for timely spraying, biological control, or cultural practices.
• Improved cost efficiency by avoiding unnecessary pesticide use.
• Enhanced confidence and autonomy in farm-level decision-making.

Significance

• Aligns with India’s goals of Digital Agriculture and technology-led extension services.
• Strengthens food security by mitigating pest-induced crop losses.
• Supports sustainable agriculture by promoting precise and need-based pest control.
• Enhances last-mile delivery of scientific knowledge to farmers.