An innovative AI-powered cattle monitoring system, CowGPT, developed by Nagpur-based startup eVerse.AI, is transforming dairy farming across India. Thousands of farmers are now utilizing smart collars that combine Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) technology, and data analytics to track animal health, detect diseases early, and enhance breeding outcomes.
Founded in 2022 by Ashish Sonkusare, eVerse.AI aims to empower smallholder farmers with technology, directly impacting their income and animal welfare. The company reports over 40,000 connected collar devices deployed, leading to increased milk production and improved farm management for more than 22 lakh farmers.
How Smart Collars Revolutionize Dairy Management
The core of eVerse.AI's offering is the Connected Cow Collar, an IoT-enabled device similar to a fitness tracker for livestock. These collars continuously monitor a cow's activity, body temperature, movement, and behavior. This real-time data is then analyzed using advanced AI and machine learning models to identify potential issues.
- Early Disease Detection: The system can predict when an animal is likely to fall sick, often before visible symptoms appear. This allows farmers to seek timely treatment, preventing severe illness and loss of productivity.
- Optimized Breeding: The collars accurately detect heat cycles, crucial for successful artificial insemination. Missing this narrow window can lead to failed attempts and financial losses.
- GPS Tracking: Farmers receive alerts directly on their mobile phones and can use GPS to locate animals that may wander away while grazing.
Beyond the Collar: CowGPT App and AI Assistant
Complementing the hardware, eVerse.AI has developed a comprehensive digital ecosystem. The Connected Cow app allows farmers to store and manage health records, medical history, and productivity data for their herd.
Furthermore, CowGPT, an AI-powered assistant, is accessible via WhatsApp in multiple Indian languages. Farmers can interact with CowGPT using text or voice messages to get information and advice on animal care, nutrition, and health, making advanced insights readily available.
Tangible Benefits and Farmer Success
Dairy farmers adopting the eVerse.AI technology report significant improvements. Ankush Shelke, a 35-year-old farmer, noted better animal management, early alerts for heat cycles and potential illnesses, and the ability to track straying cows. He observed an increase of two to three liters of milk per animal daily, enabling him to expand his dairy business.
Sujal Bhasne, another farmer, highlighted how timely treatment, prompted by sensor alerts, helps maintain milk production and overall animal health.
Broader Impact: Sustainability and Future Growth
eVerse.AI is also addressing environmental concerns by working on projects to reduce methane emissions from livestock, a significant contributor to agricultural greenhouse gases. Through initiatives like the Maharashtra Methane Mission, the company encourages improved feeding practices that reduce emissions while boosting milk production, potentially allowing farmers to earn from carbon credits.
The startup has forged partnerships with major dairy cooperatives, including Amul, Banas Dairy, and Mother Dairy, and collaborates with global organizations such as the World Bank, Tata Trusts, and the Gates Foundation. With plans to expand across India's key dairy-producing states, eVerse.AI aims to further integrate digital tools into livestock farming, viewing cows as "Creators of Wealth" that can generate multiple income streams for rural households.