Ludhiana, Punjab – July 23, 2025
In a bold step toward transforming Indian agriculture, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) today unveiled its cutting-edge AI-powered auto-steering system for tractors at its research farm in Ludhiana. The demonstration featured driverless tractors operating with precision, guided by a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) — marking a historic move from traditional to smart farming technologies.
The event was presided over by PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, with participation from top university officials, scientists, and agricultural engineers. The GNSS-based auto-steering system, developed by a U.S.-based company, is compatible with both new and older tractor models, and is available for an estimated cost of ₹3.5 lakh.
Revolutionizing Field Operations with GNSS Technology
“The auto-steering system is a satellite-guided, computer-controlled solution designed to automate steering during critical field operations,” said Dr. Gosal. “By leveraging signals from multiple satellite constellations, the system maintains tractors on highly accurate paths. This eliminates steering errors, even in low-visibility conditions, and reduces operator fatigue.”
Key components of the system include:
- GNSS Receiver – Ensures precise geolocation.
- Wheel Angle Sensor – Tracks and adjusts steering in real time.
- Motorized Steering Unit – Automates directional movement.
- ISOBUS-Compatible Console – Offers intelligent features like skip-row functionality, custom turning patterns, and automatic headland turns.
Operators can easily toggle between manual and automated steering modes using a single button, enhancing both flexibility and ease of use.
Field Trials Prove Efficiency Gains
During his address, Dr. Gosal shared performance data from PAU’s field trials. Manual tractor operations with implements like rotavators and cultivators typically showed overlaps ranging from 3% to 12% and missed coverage between 2% and 7%. In contrast, the auto-steering system reduced both overlaps and missed areas to under 1%, demonstrating remarkable accuracy and significant cost savings in input usage.
“These digital tools are not just about automation,” he emphasized. “They reduce physical strain on farmers and improve operational efficiency, helping farmers achieve higher yields with fewer resources.”
National Recognition for PAU’s Smart Farming Innovations
Dr. Rishi Pal Singh, Registrar of PAU, highlighted how the university’s advancements in digital agriculture have earned national acclaim. Recently, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan remotely operated PAU’s sensor-enabled paddy transplanter during a live demonstration in Patiala — showcasing the power of remote and sensor-based agri-machinery.
Adding to the momentum, Dr. Manjeet Singh, Dean of the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, discussed PAU’s remote-controlled two-wheel paddy transplanter. The innovation allows farmers to manage transplanting operations from shaded areas, minimizing exposure to heat and humidity, a major occupational hazard during the paddy season.
The Future of Indian Farming: Precision, Productivity, and Sustainability
With these technological milestones, PAU continues to lead India’s transition to precision agriculture. Integrating AI, automation, and satellite navigation into daily farming practices ensures not only increased efficiency but also sustainability and resilience in the face of labor shortages and climate challenges.
As PAU’s innovations roll out to more farms, Punjab is poised to become a national model for smart agriculture — where machines, data, and human ingenuity converge to feed the future.
