Saravanan Raj and Bhattacharjee Suchiradipta (2015). Role of ICTs in Family Farming: Experiences and Way Forward. In: M.L. Choudhary and Aditya (2015) Family Farming and Rural Economic Development. New India Publishing Agency, New Delhi.
Abstract
With the developing world still depending on agriculture to a great extent and rural people depending on it for their livelihood, it comes as no surprise that family farms have been the focus of development in recent times. Family farms have been legacy for most of the farmers and along with it being principal livelihood option for many, the increasing need of agricultural extension services for these farms become more important. But at the same time, the huge gap between the number of famers or farm households and the extension personnel is a reality. And to bridge this gap, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) can play a significant role. Another purpose it serves is making agriculture attractive to the young people engaged in farming, mostly compulsion. ICTs like web portals, mobile phones and social media are the most popular and most widely used and can enhance the interaction among researchers, extension personnel and farmers. The youth today are hooked to the internet and their 1 st major activity on the web is social networking. Also, mobile phones are the most popular form of ICTs as has been proven the sheer number of subscribers worldwide. And these tools, used appropriately, can change the whole structure of agricultural communication. ICTs can be an important part of communication strategies, connecting the youth to peers and professionals.It is true that the ‘apps won’t plough the fields’ but they will definitely help the youth do the job 215 216 Family Farming and Rural Economic Development better. ICTs can prove to be a great catalyst in engaging agricultural community in family farms making agriculture attractive and sustainable again. Read more…
