AI Study For Disease Detection

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the National Informatics Centre (NIC) and the Spices Board have undertaken a pioneering project to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to detect and classify diseases in large cardamom crops in Sikkim. This initiative is set to revolutionize the agricultural sector, enhancing productivity and efficiency through advanced technology.

MoU Signing and Objectives

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NIC and the Spices Board marks a significant milestone in this venture. The primary objective is to employ AI tools to identify and diagnose diseases in cardamom leaves. This initiative is spearheaded by NIC’s Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence (CoE-AI), which is based in Kolkata. The proof of concept, developed by NIC, utilizes AI-based models to detect diseases in cardamom leaves. Thereby integrating AI solutions with e-governance applications.

Implementation and Methodology

According to the MoU, the Spices Board will supply NIC with images of both healthy and diseased large cardamom leaves. These images will undergo processing at NIC’s AI lab in Kolkata. The AI tools will be trained on these images to identify and classify diseased cardamom leaves accurately. This advanced diagnostic tool aims to provide farmers with timely and accurate information, thereby enabling better crop management and disease control.

Collaboration and Strategic Planning

Discussions to finalise the MoU have been ongoing for the past three months. NIC Sikkim, the Spices Board, and NIC Kolkata have worked collaboratively to use AI technology to improve extensive cardamom farming in Sikkim. This strategic partnership emphasises the importance of technology in modern agriculture and the potential of AI to address critical challenges faced by farmers.For exporters, this initiative promises several advantages. Accurate disease detection and classification will lead to healthier crops and higher yields. This, in turn, can enhance the quality and quantity of cardamom available for export, meeting international standards and increasing market competitiveness. Exporters will benefit from a more reliable supply chain, reduced losses due to crop diseases, and improved profitability.

The collaboration between NIC and the Spices Board represents a significant step towards modernising agriculture through AI. By focusing on significant cardamom disease detection, this project aims to support farmers, enhance crop productivity, and boost the export quality of cardamom. This initiative serves as a model for integrating technology with traditional farming practices. Paving the way for a more efficient and productive agricultural sector.