IoT Crop Protection Device by Government College Students Shields Farms from Wild Animals

In a remarkable example of innovation-driven education, students from Government Polytechnic College, Hamirpur (Himachal Pradesh) have developed an IoT-based device that protects crops from wild animals and birds — a long-standing concern for farmers in the hill regions. The device, called the Mass Surveillance Crop System, combines modern technology with local problem-solving to create a low-cost, sustainable farming solution.

Tackling Crop Damage through Smart Technology

For decades, farmers in Himachal Pradesh have struggled with monkeys, wild boars, and other animals damaging their crops. Traditional methods like fencing and scarecrows have often failed. The new device offers a smarter alternative.

Developed under the guidance of Pankaj Thakur, Head of the Information Technology Department, the system uses motion sensors to detect animal movement. Once triggered, it emits a gunshot-like sound, scaring away the intruding animal without causing any harm.

“This IoT-based innovation could be a game-changer for local farmers who lose a major share of their harvest every year,” said Thakur.

Low-Cost, Automated, and Farmer-Friendly Design

The project’s core appeal lies in its simplicity and affordability. Student inventors Anjali and Sachin Chaudhary emphasized that the system is automated, eliminating the need for constant monitoring. Unlike CCTV cameras, the device does not record or store video data, ensuring privacy and energy efficiency.

It activates only when movement is detected, making it highly efficient for rural environments with limited electricity or internet connectivity. Farmers can easily install and maintain it, making it ideal for small-scale agricultural setups.

Innovation Meets Rural Sustainability

This innovation represents a growing wave of student-led technological advancements aimed at addressing India’s rural challenges. The Mass Surveillance Crop System reflects how IoT and smart sensors can make farming safer, more efficient, and less dependent on manual labor.

As India continues to push for smart agriculture and digital transformation, such projects bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application. For Himachal’s farmers, this could mean fewer losses, better yields, and improved livelihoods — all powered by student ingenuity.