BAU launches ‘Digital Khamari app’ to support rural livestock farmers

Bangladesh’s livestock industry continues to face significant hurdles, especially in disease detection, proper treatment, vaccination, and access to timely information- leading to frequent financial setbacks for farmers. To help overcome these challenges, a mobile application called ‘Digital Khamari’ is introducing a new wave of technological advancement in livestock services.

Developed in Bangla by Prof. Dr. Md. Shahiduzzaman of the Department of Parasitology at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), the app delivers easy-to-understand, illustrated information on diseases affecting cattle, goats, sheep, ducks, and chickens. Designed to educate and raise awareness, it enables farmers to identify farm problems promptly and take preliminary measures with the help of technology.

One of its most notable features is the use of simple language and visual aids, allowing even illiterate farmers to recognise diseases through pictures. The app includes comprehensive details on symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures for both common and complex diseases, along with basic veterinary advice and vaccination schedules.

Farmers can learn how to identify specific illnesses, choose suitable medicines, determine correct vaccination times, and access contact information for local veterinary professionals. This is expected to help lower animal death rates, reduce treatment expenses, and minimise economic losses.

Emphasising the importance of such a tool, Prof. Shahiduzzaman explained, “In rural areas, there’s a serious shortage of veterinary doctors, and visiting distant hospitals is often not feasible. This app provides names, addresses, and contact numbers of local vets, which is a major advantage for farmers.” Through the app, users can find answers to questions like the cause of a cow’s swollen udder, symptoms of parasitic infections, or prevention methods for Lumpy Skin Disease.

Available for free on the Google Play Store, Digital Khamari can also be used offline after installation. It offers awareness resources, disease-specific treatment guidelines, and farm management advice.

Planned future upgrades include live chat support, video tutorials, more disease-related content, AI-driven disease diagnosis, and a farm management calendar. “We are continuously updating the app based on farmer feedback to make it more effective and user-friendly,” Prof. Shahiduzzaman added.

Funded by the ICT Division of the Bangladesh Government, Digital Khamari stands as a successful model of technology in livestock care and a practical contribution to rural development. The initiative not only delivers essential information but also strengthens farmers’ self-reliance. Experts believe that with continued government backing and collaboration between public and private sectors, such innovations can significantly enhance food security, create employment, and improve nutrition, as healthy livestock remain a vital asset for both families and the nation.

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