Diagnosis of disorders in sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) with web-based expert system

Timely and accurate diagnosis and control of disorders in sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.), which appear due to various biotic and abiotic stresses, is important to reduce the loss of production. Traditional extension methods have certain drawbacks in terms of timely, cost-effective and efficient crop protection. The paper demonstrates application of an expert system for cost effective and efficient extension tool to aid farmers in taking quality decision for disorder diagnosis and control in sugarcane. CaneDES, a web based expert system to diagnose disorders in sugarcane caused by various biotic and abiotic stresses have been developed. A new classified knowledge representation technique has been adopted for the development of expert system, to manage the diagnostic knowledge efficiently. System was evaluated, with the help of cane development personals engaged in the extension services to the sugarcane farmers, in terms of time taken and confidence level in diagnosis. Usability of the system was also tested to judge its appropriateness for its stakeholders.