Content Analysis of the Challenges of Using Drones in Paddy Fields in the Haraz Plain Watershed, Iran

Drone technology has gained popularity in recent years as a sustainable solution to changing agricultural conditions. Using drones in agriculture provides many advantages in farm management. However, the use of drones in paddy fields in Iran is a new phenomenon facing numerous challenges. This study aims to explore the challenges for using drones in paddy fields and provide practical guidelines to solve the challenges facing the their application. This research was conducted with a qualitative approach and through content analysis in four stages, including material collection, descriptive analysis, category selection and evaluation. Using the non-probability sampling method and a combination of judgmental and referral methods, a sample of 15 experts in the field of agricultural drones was identified, and the necessary information was collected after about 12 hours of interviews. The results of analyzing the challenges of using drones in paddy fields indicated six categories consisting of "complexity and time-consuming", "hardware and software limitations", "unfavorable access", "ethical-social concerns", "lack of macro and integrated approach", and "safety issues". An understanding of these challenges can help policy-makers, specialists, extension agents, and farmers to define appropriate practical procedures for the use of drone innovation in paddy fields