Design and Deployment Challenges of IoT-enabled Irrigation System for Sustainable Intercropping

Agriculture plays a vital role in global food security, economic stability, and sustainable development. Intercropping enhances productivity by optimizing resource use, promoting biodiversity, and reducing pest and disease risks. Efficient irrigation in intercropping systems remains a significant challenge due to the varying water requirements of different crops. This study addresses the design and deployment challenges encountered while implementing an IoT-enabled smart drip irrigation system tailored for intercropping farming. The objective is to develop a cost-effective, precise irrigation solution that meets the diverse needs of multiple crops cultivated together. The system design was informed by insights gathered through focus group discussions with the farming community, ensuring that the proposed solution aligns with ground-level realities. Key issues such as sensor placement, real-time soil parameter monitoring, and crop-specific irrigation scheduling are explored. The developed framework integrates soil moisture sensors, climate data collection, and automated irrigation control to optimize water use. This paper presents the system architecture, describes the major implementation challenges, and discusses practical solutions. The findings contribute to the advancement of precision irrigation practices in intercropping systems, particularly in water-scarce regions.