Haresh Shri Kandhan A/l Dev Anand SMK RAJA MAHADI
The Automated Drip Irrigation System with IoT project by Team Green Ninjas from SMK Raja Mahadi addresses the urgent need to conserve water in agriculture by introducing a smart, sustainable solution. Traditional irrigation methods often result in significant water wastage, with agriculture consuming nearly 70% of global freshwater resources—up to 50% of which is lost due to inefficiencies (World Bank, 2021). To combat this, the team developed an IoT-based system that utilizes soil moisture sensors, a microcontroller with Wi-Fi connectivity, and a water pump integrated into a drip irrigation setup. This system automatically detects when soil moisture is low and initiates watering, shutting off once optimal moisture levels are restored. By delivering water only when necessary, the system reduces water usage by up to 40% (IWMI, 2022), while also lowering labor needs and enhancing crop consistency. The innovation supports Sustainable Development Goals, SDG 6 promoting clean water usage and SDG 12 responsible production. It's designed especially with small-scale farmers in mind, this solution demonstrates how accessible technology can transform agriculture into a more efficient, eco-friendly, and resilient sector.