Bogor, March 20, 2024 - A farming machine named Nutriferads Fertigation Machine, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and productivity of horticultural cultivation, was successfully launched by the Center for Tropical Horticulture Studies at IPB University on Wednesday (21/03) afternoon.
Equipped with a comprehensive database, advanced sensors, and an intelligent computer system, this machine is capable of analyzing the condition of the soil and plants in real-time. It also automatically adjusts the water and fertilizer distribution according to the specific needs of the plants, ensuring efficient and optimal resource usage.
The main advantages of the Nutriferads Fertigation Machine include improving the efficiency of water and fertilizer use by up to 30%, increasing plant productivity by up to 40%, and simplifying farmers' work, significantly reducing the number of Workdays (about 70-80%).
Indonesia's agricultural potential and productivity have been in the spotlight in recent years. Moreover, agriculture plays a crucial role in maintaining national food security.
This was what motivated Prof. Dr. Awang Maharijaya, SP., MSi from IPB University to research and create a state-of-the-art agricultural tool with technology named Fertigasi Nutriferads.
The creation of the Nutriferads Fertigation Machine was made possible through funding from the Education Fund Management Institute (LPDP) through the Productive Innovative Research (RISPRO) program. From 2020 until now, this research has received funding of about Rp2.7 billion with the research title “Decision Support System towards Precision and Smart Farming for Vegetable Production”.
The launching event of Fertigasi Nutriferads was also attended by LPDP Research Facilitation Director Wisnu Sardjono Soenarso. Wisnu Sardjono appreciated the success of the research and creation of the latest agricultural technology in the form of the Nutriferads Fertigation Machine.
He hopes that this tool can truly enhance agricultural productivity, strengthen national food security, and improve the welfare of farmers in Indonesia. LPDP indeed hopes that the Directorate of Research and Innovation at the Bogor Agricultural Institute (IPB) will provide guidance and acceleration to encourage the utilization of RISPRO-funded research results for the wider community.
The Nutriferads Fertigation Machine launching event was held at the Tajur Experimental Garden, Center for Tropical Horticulture Studies IPB. The event was attended by the Vice-Rector of IPB, Director of CV. Kharisma Scientific, Head of the Directorate of Research and Innovation at IPB, and other academic community invitees.