Advancing Sustainable Paddy Farming: Utilizing Multispectral Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Technology for Efficient Water Stress Detection and Management

Paddy is one of the crucial crops in Asia. Due to that factor, the demand has been increasing daily, and research has been reported by Das et al. (2022) that the paddy will be in demand and will increase by 50% in 2050. Paddy progresses through different growth stages: vegetation, reproductive, and ripening. The reproductive stage is particularly vital for its development. However, the growth and yield of paddy are significantly affected by water scarcity, especially during the dry season in Perlis from January to April. To tackle this challenge, this research utilizes multispectral unmanned aerial vehicle (UA V) technology to identify water stress levels in paddy fields. Despite its proven effectiveness in agriculture, this innovative technology has not been widely utilized for water stress monitoring. This study aims to utilize the multispectral UAV for water stress detection, improving understanding and managing water resources in paddy farming. This approach can strengthen sustainable paddy production, even in disadvantageous weather conditions. By enhancing water stress detection, we can ensure more efficient water usage in paddy cultivation, thereby contributing to the overall sustainability of this essential agricultural practice.