Robotics and Drones

Abstract

Agricultural automation is redefining modern agriculture through the integration of robotics, AIoT ecosystems, smart sensors, autonomous machinery, and cloud-based analytics to enhance productivity, efficiency, and sustainability. This chapter per the authors synthesizes how autonomous platforms, including drones, robotic harvesting, precision spraying, automated irrigation, and AI-driven monitoring tools, are transforming crop and livestock management. Emphasis is placed on real-time data acquisition, site-specific interventions, and intelligent decision support to optimize input use, reduce agrochemical dependency, and improve soil, water, and climate-smart outcomes. The chapter evaluates economic benefits, highlighting improved profitability and long-term cost efficiency despite high initial investments, while critically reviewing social implications such as labor displacement, skill requirements, and technological divides. Key challenges and future pathways toward next-generation autonomous farming systems are also discussed.