AU develops AI-based pest monitoring device
In a step towards integrating artificial intelligence with agriculture, researchers at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Chair of Andhra University have developed an AgriAI device designed to help farmers detect and manage pest outbreaks while monitoring crop health in real time.
The device, described as an adaptive IoT-AI pest control system integrated with a large language model (LLM), aims to provide farmers with a simple, technology-driven solution for improving crop protection and reducing excessive pesticide use.
The system works through a camera installed in the field that captures images of crops. These images are analysed by a compact computing unit that uses artificial intelligence to detect the presence of pests. The technology can identify the type of pest and estimate the extent of infestation affecting the plants.
Based on the analysis, the device suggests suitable pesticides to address the problem. By guiding farmers in selecting the appropriate chemical, the system helps reduce guesswork and prevents unnecessary spraying, thereby supporting more sustainable farming practices.
Apart from pest monitoring, the device also keeps track of soil health. A soil sensor placed in the field measures parameters such as moisture levels, pH value, and nutrient content, including nitrogen. This information helps farmers better understand soil conditions and make informed decisions about crop management.
All the collected data, including pest detection results, pesticide recommendations, and soil conditions, is converted into simple summaries in English and Telugu so that farmers can easily understand the findings.
The data is uploaded to a dedicated website for monitoring and record-keeping. Farmers can also access the same information through the Telegram mobile application via a bot named AgriAI Bot.
Prof. M. James Stephen, principal investigator of the project and Chair Professor at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Chair of Andhra University, said the initiative has the potential to transform smallholder agriculture.
“The journey began in the fields by interacting with farmers, engaging village leaders, and conducting large-scale surveys across five adopted villages of the Chair in Pendurthi mandal of Visakhapatnam district. More than 1,000 field samples helped capture the real challenges faced in pest management,” he said.
Based on the grassroots data, a team of doctoral scholars, students, and volunteers moved from survey to solution by designing, piloting, and testing a non-chemical AI-driven pest control system.
Prof. Stephen thanked the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation under the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for supporting the initiative.
The device was recently launched in the farming fields of Pinagadi village in Pendurthi mandal of Visakhapatnam district. It was inaugurated by Manoj Tiwari, Director of the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation.