Innovating Agricultural Technology: The Story of Devan Chandrasekharan
Introduction
In recent times, advancements in technology have significantly impacted various sectors, including agriculture. Devan Chandrasekharan, a young entrepreneur from Kerala, is at the forefront of this transformation. As the founder and managing director of Fuselage Innovations, he is dedicated to using technology to help farmers overcome challenges and improve their agricultural practices.
Background: A Farmer’s Struggles
Devan’s journey began with a personal connection to farming. His mother, Ambika Chandrasekharan, is a farmer in Alappuzha district. After experiencing devastating floods in 2017 and 2018, the agricultural landscape changed drastically. The floods depleted the soil’s nutrients and reduced crop yields, leaving many farmers, including Devan’s family, in dire circumstances.
During this tumultuous period, Devan had just graduated with a degree in aeronautical engineering. Motivated by a desire to support his family’s farming endeavors, he experimented with using drones for crop management, which he found more effective than traditional soil testing methods.
The Birth of Fuselage Innovations
In 2020, Devan, along with his sister Devika, founded Fuselage Innovations. This startup specializes in developing cutting-edge technologies using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence. Their primary focus is on addressing critical challenges faced by farmers, especially in the wake of natural disasters, and enhancing overall agricultural efficiency and sustainability.
Key Technologies
Fuselage has introduced two notable products:
- FIA QD10 Drone: This DGCA-certified drone is designed for precision spraying, crucial for pest management and improving crop health.
- Nireeksh Drone: With advanced multispectral sensors, this drone provides farmers with in-depth crop monitoring and vegetative analysis, aiding in informed decision-making.
According to experts in the field, Fuselage’s products have received positive validation from several incubators and organizations, thanks to their robust hardware capabilities.
Overcoming Initial Challenges
Starting a tech-driven agricultural business was not without its obstacles. Devan faced significant challenges related to funding and infrastructure. Many investors initially turned down his proposals, citing a lack of support for hardware startups in India. Undeterred, Devan sought financial assistance from banks and secured a loan of ₹7.5 lakh.
By persevering, Fuselage Innovations achieved a noteworthy milestone, reaching a turnover of ₹5 crore in the previous financial year. They now operate from Maker Village in Kochi, which is India’s largest electronic incubator facility.
Addressing Ongoing Challenges
Despite the company’s progress, Devan acknowledges the ongoing challenges in implementing their technology within existing agricultural systems. One major hurdle is the traditional mindset prevalent among some stakeholders, which often leads to hesitation to adopt new technologies. Furthermore, even with necessary certifications from authorities, Fuselage’s drones can sometimes be overlooked in government schemes aimed at supporting agricultural innovation.
Positive Impact on Farmers
The innovative solutions offered by Fuselage have already made a significant difference for many farmers. By integrating drone technology into their agricultural practices, farmers reported the following benefits:
- 30% Increase in Crop Production: With precise application and monitoring, crop yields have improved notably.
- 70% Reduction in Management Costs: Efficient pest control and resource management have led to significant cost savings.
Devan and his team are committed to continuing their efforts in creating and scaling solutions that address critical issues facing farmers, such as improving soil quality and managing water resources efficiently.
Future Goals
Looking ahead, Devan is keen on expanding Fuselage’s reach and impact. He wants to develop more innovative solutions to tackle challenges like water scarcity and soil nutrient depletion, which are pressing concerns for farmers across India.
Conclusion
Devan Chandrasekharan’s journey exemplifies how technology can reshape traditional practices in agriculture. Through Fuselage Innovations, he is empowering farmers with advanced tools that not only enhance productivity but also promote sustainable farming methods. As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, innovators like Devan play a crucial role in bridging technology and traditional farming, ensuring a brighter future for farmers everywhere.
