The “Khamari” app, a technology-driven farming tool, is transforming agricultural practices in Dinajpur, helping farmers achieve higher yields at reduced costs. By offering guidance on balanced fertiliser use, seed selection, and the precise application of pesticides, the app is reshaping how crops are cultivated, particularly benefiting tech-savvy, educated young farmers.
In the Barail Bonkali area of Dinajpur Sadar, a cooperative group of 15 young farmers is cultivating potatoes on about 50 bighas of land, relying entirely on the app’s recommendations. Azim Uddin, one of the farmers, shared that synchronised planting and uniform application of fertilisers and pesticides, as advised by the app, have resulted in a well-maintained field. With the crop 45 days into its growth cycle, harvesting is expected to take place in the next 20 to 25 days.
The app’s benefits are also extending to ordinary farmers. Shahin Alam, who cultivated potatoes on 33 decimals of land, reported saving Tk8,000 to Tk9,000 compared to last year by following the app’s advice. Azgar Ali, another farmer, explained how, with the help of the app, he now guides his father on fertiliser dosages, saving Tk7,000 to Tk8,000 per bigha compared to traditional farming methods passed down through generations.
According to Abdullah Al Masud Tushar, Upazila Agriculture Officer, potatoes have been grown on around 450 hectares in Dinajpur Sadar this season using the app. This has resulted in a reduction of chemical fertiliser costs by approximately Tk1,63,000, easing pressure on government subsidies.
Sub-assistant Agriculture Officer Deshbandhu Mahanta highlighted that educated farmers, comfortable with smartphones, have contributed to the app’s widespread use. The app has been adopted on nearly 80 bighas of land in the area, while also improving soil fertility.
During a recent visit to inspect the potato fields, Agriculture Ministry Secretary Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mian said that the government developed the app to modernise and make agriculture more profitable. He emphasised that further expansion of the technology among educated rural farmers could lead to a revolutionary change in the country’s agricultural sector, reducing production costs and enhancing crop quality and soil health.
