Assessing farmers access to ICT and non-ICT sources for agricultural development in Semi-Arid Region in India

Abstract

This study examines farmers’ access to Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and Non-ICT systems in the semi-arid region in the state of Rajasthan in India. The Primary data was collected from 133 farmers consisting of 68 ICT users, 62 Non-ICT users, and three moderate users. The empirical results of the multiple regression analysis revealed that education level and landholding size (in acres) influences farmers’ access to ICT and non-ICT systems. However, household labor variable adversely affects access to technology. It also concludes that comparatively female farmers have lesser access to ICT. The empirical results of the multiple regression analysis revealed that education level and landholding size (in acres) influences farmers’ access to ICT and non-ICT systems. However, household labor variable adversely affects access to technology. It also concludes that comparatively female farmers have lesser access to ICT.
 The study recommends educating and sensitizing farmers about the benefits of ICT, coordination between government and private sectors for the effectual development of ICT, creating effective linkages of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (Farm Science Centers)(KVKs), Agriculture Extension as a profession for farmers and 24×7 television and radio channels dedicated to agriculture. This study can be used for productive implementation of ICT and Non-ICT sources considering the socio-economic characteristics of farmers in the similar situation.