- Researchers in Bangladesh have developed an AI model capable of detecting plant diseases at an early stage through advanced image recognition and machine learning.
- The system operates via a simple smartphone app, providing immediate, offline diagnoses and treatment advice, making it highly accessible for rural farmers.
- Early disease detection helps reduce crop losses, lowers pesticide use, and improves harvest yields, supporting national food security and farmer incomes.
- Following successful field trials with over 90% accuracy, plans are underway to extend the AI model to cover more crops and pest management solutions.
Bangladesh has taken a major step forward in agricultural technology with the development of a pioneering AI model designed to detect plant diseases at an early stage, potentially safeguarding millions of farmers’ livelihoods.
Developed by a team of researchers at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), the new AI system uses image recognition and machine learning to accurately identify signs of disease in crops such as rice, jute, and vegetables. By analysing thousands of images, the model can detect even subtle symptoms, often before they become visible to the human eye.
“Our goal was to create a tool that is both affordable and accessible to local farmers,” said Dr Anika Rahman, lead scientist on the project. “By catching diseases early, we can help farmers reduce losses, decrease pesticide use, and ensure better harvests.”
The AI tool is designed to be user-friendly, allowing farmers to take a simple photograph of their crops using a smartphone app.
The model then analyses the image and provides immediate feedback, along with suggested treatment options. Importantly, the system operates offline, making it practical for farmers in rural areas with limited internet access.
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Field trials have shown promising results, with an accuracy rate of over 90%. Officials hope the technology will be rolled out nationwide within the next year, particularly targeting smallholder farmers who are often the most vulnerable to crop failures.
Agricultural experts hail the innovation as a significant advancement for food security and sustainable farming in Bangladesh.
As climate change continues to threaten crop production globally, technologies like this AI model could prove crucial in building a resilient and prosperous agricultural future.
The BARI team is also planning to extend the model to cover more crop varieties and pest detection in the coming phases.
