Srinagar, May 18: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has launched an AI-driven e-Plant Health Clinic App to provide farmers across Kashmir with quick, reliable, and real-time scientific advisory services through a digital platform.
The mobile-based application, available on Android and iOS platforms, was inaugurated by the Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, during a program organised at the Directorate of Extension today. The event was attended by Director Extension Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, university scientists, officers, farmers and other stakeholders.
Developed with the integration of artificial intelligence and scientific expertise, the app is designed to assist farmers in identifying and managing crop diseases, pest attacks, nutrient deficiencies, and other plant health-related problems.
The platform offers a simple and user-friendly interface through which farmers can directly interact with SKUAST-K experts. One of the major features of the application is the facility for real-time video consultation.
Farmers can connect with SKUAST-K scientists through live video calls, show affected crops or orchards, and receive immediate expert guidance. The app also allows users to upload photographs of diseased plants for accurate diagnosis and remedial recommendations.
The initiative is expected to improve farmers’ access to timely agricultural advisory services, reduce crop losses, and minimise unnecessary use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. By making scientific expertise digitally accessible, the university aims to strengthen farmer-scientist interaction and promote efficient crop management practices across the region.
During the live demonstration session, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) from different districts of Kashmir, along with local farmers, joined the programme through the app and interacted with the Vice Chancellor and expert panel. Several farmers shared crop-related concerns and received immediate solutions from the scientists.
Speaking on the occasion, the Prof. Nazir commended the efforts of Haziq Hussain, a young tech-savvy innovator, for developing the application, and appreciated scientific staff of the Directorate of Extension for their valuable suggestions and contributions towards refining the app.
He highlighted the growing importance of digital technologies in agricultural extension services and stated that the app would play a significant role in improving outreach to the farming community.
Participants, including scientists, KVK personnel, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), officers, and farmers, expressed confidence that the initiative would help strengthen sustainable agriculture and ensure faster dissemination of scientific knowledge among farmers in Kashmir.