Agricultural Extension Research Articles

ANALISIS KINERJA PENYULUH PERTANIAN MELALUI PERMANFAATAN MEDIA INTERNET DI KOTA KENDAR

The objective of this study was to ascertain the performance of agricultural extension workers and the utilization of internet media by agricultural extension workers in Kendari City, as well as the relationship between the two. The population of this study comprised 63 agricultural extension workers in Kendari City. The sample was determined using the saturated sampling method, also known as census, which entailed the inclusion of the entire population. The data were collected using a variety of methods, including observation, a review of the literature, documentation, and interviews guided by questionnaires. The research variables are the performance of agricultural extension workers and the level of utilization of the internet by said extension workers. The collected data is then subjected to quantitative analysis. The quantitative analysis process was executed by employing the class interval formula and the Work Achievement Value (NPK) formula. Subsequently, a comprehensive analysis was conducted using Spearman's Ranks Correlation analysis, facilitated by SPSS version 22.0 software. The results indicated that the performance of agricultural extension workers in Kendari City was predominantly in the medium or good category, as evidenced by the mean value of the Work Achievement Score (NPK), which was recorded at 84.66. Consequently, agricultural extension workers have effectively implemented the three extension indicators, particularly in the preparation and evaluation stages, as outlined in the Minister of Agriculture Regulation Number 91/Permentan/OT.140/9-2013. The utilization of internet media by agricultural extension workers is classified in the moderate category. This classification is evidenced by the following activities: the compilation of reports, the creation of materials, the development of extension programs, and the design of extension methods. It is evident that extension workers continue to underutilize internet media in their efforts to effectively prepare and execute agricultural extension activities. The findings of the investigation into the correlation between internet utilization and the performance of agricultural extension workers revealed an insignificant relationship, as evidenced by a Spearman correlation coefficient value of 0.053 and a sig value of 0.682. This result suggests that, despite the presence of an indication of a positive correlation, the utilization of the internet has not led to a substantial enhancement in the performance of agricultural extension workers in Kendari City.

COVID-19 Post-Pandemic Agricultural Extension Services: A Strategic Analysis of Post-Pandemic Sustainability

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted agricultural extension systems worldwide, highlighting systemic vulnerabilities while accelerating digital transformation. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of post-pandemic extension services, emphasizing sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience. It explores the breakdown of traditional service delivery due to lockdowns and movement restrictions and examines the rapid pivot toward digital platforms such as mobile apps, AI tools, and hybrid models that blend in-person and virtual engagement. The study identifies critical challenges, including digital inequality, labor shortages, trust deficits, infrastructural gaps, and market disconnection. Drawing from global case studies—India, Kenya, the Philippines, and the U.S.—the paper highlights best practices like public-private partnerships, community media, and localized content. A sustainability framework is proposed, encompassing farmer-centric approaches, digitally inclusive infrastructure, multi-stakeholder ecosystems, and crisis-ready systems. Policy recommendations focus on capacity development, monitoring and evaluation, and decentralized, culturally relevant service models. The findings underscore the need to reimagine agricultural extension as a dynamic, integrated, and digitally enabled system that centers farmer empowerment, equity, and adaptability in the face of future crises.

Assessing the benefits and challenges of inventory management practices and systems in the South African automotive sector

The study assesses the benefits and challenges of inventory management practices and systems in the South African automotive industry. The study used a qualitative approach in which focus groups and semi-structured interviews were conducted on 18 supply chain professionals drawn from the automotive sector in four provinces in South Africa. ATLAS.ti software was used to analyse data. The study generated two themes: the benefits and challenges of inventory management practices and systems. This study concludes that inventory management practices play a critical role within companies in the South African automotive sector since managing inventory is an indispensable part of the more extensive supply chain management (SCM) practice. Regarding inventory management challenges, SCM professionals find it difficult to retain the resilience required to adapt and react to any disruptive circumstances due to inadequate support from the South African government. Also, it appeared difficult to deal with this challenge as some companies within the South African automotive sector have limited resources, making it extremely difficult to deal with uncertainties when they arise.

Genome-wide association analysis revealed novel candidate genes for body measurement traits in indigenous Gudali and crossbred Simgud in Cameroon.

The genetic potential of Central African cattle for enhanced productivity remains largely unexplored. The absence of systematic pedigree recording and performance monitoring represent a major obstacle to implementing informed breeding strategies aimed at improving their production. To address this gap, we performed a genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) on a total of 856 animals genotyped with the GGP Bovine 100K array. The analysis focused on identifying genomic regions and candidate genes associated with body traits in a local Zebu (Gudali) and its crossbreed with the European Simmental (Simgud), using mixed linear models (MLM). The SNP-based heritability for the four body traits studied varied between 0.23 ± 0.12 for the height at wither (HAW) to 0.44 ± 0.11 for the sacrum height (SH). The genetic correlation ranged from 0.19 ± 0.14 between height at wither and ear length (EL), to 0.81 ± 0.06 between height at wither and sacrum height. For the phenotypic correlations, the ranges were 0.58 ± 0.00 between body length (BL) and ear length to 0.90 ± 0.06 between height at wither and body length. The maximum Pairwise Linkage Disequilibrium (LD), measured as squared correlation coefficient (r2) was 0.465 for Gudali, decreasing by half (0.23) at a distance of 50,708 bp. For the Simgud population the maximum LD was 0.47 halving (0.23) at 99,201 bp. Notably, we observed extended LD patterns across both the Gudali and Simgud genomes, persisting over distances greater than 1 mbp. These features hold significant potential for association analysis studies and genetic improvement initiatives. A total of 52 SNPs were identified has being associated to the considered body traits. These SNPs were mapped within or near 70 candidate genes across the genome. Among them, the ADGRD1, NDUFAF1, RTF1 and ITPKA genes exhibited a pleiotropic effect as they were associated with two or more traits. Additionally, LAMTOR5, PCDH9, BCL2, CTIF, BHLHA15, UNC5D, CNTNAP5, TMEM109, TMEM132A, and NOS1AP genes showed direct association with individual body traits. This study identified a number of novel loci associated with pathways influencing growth and body traits, disease resistance and immunity, reproduction and milk production. Overall, the identified genes could be considered as candidate genes in any attempt to improve growth, disease resistance and production in tropical cattle raised under extensive management systems. These genes or genomic regions should be prioritized in future cattle breeding programs in Cameroon.

Social Determinants of Health Affect Long Term Burn Care in Pediatric Patients.

For pediatric burn patients, outpatient follow-up is essential to optimize outcomes. Social determinants of health (SDH) influence families' ability to attend clinic follow-up appointments. We hypothesize that SDH differences are associated with missing outpatient burn follow-up and therefore inferior burn-related outcomes. We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients <18 years who were admitted to our pediatric burn center during 2021-2022. Patient demographics, injury and management details, social work SDH assessment, and postinjury complications were collected. Multivariate regression was conducted to identify independent predictors of missed follow-up. Among 322 patients, median age at injury was 2.5 years (IQR: 1.4-7.8). Most patients were male (60.2%), and most were white (56.0%). Forty-six percent of patients missed one or more appointment. Patients who missed appointments less often had a primary care provider (PCP) (91.3% vs 98.1%; p=0.007) and were more commonly exposed to tobacco/illicit substances (31.8% vs 21.3%; p=0.03). Patients who attended all appointments more often had their burns managed non-surgically (81.6% vs 62.8%, p<0.0001). Controlling for relevant clinical factors, independent predictors of missing appointments included not having a PCP (aOR 6.10; 95% CI 1.25-29.81) and requiring surgical burn management (aOR 3.13; 95% CI 1.65-5.95). Next steps include collaborating with social work to improve support and resources for patients at increased risk for letting their outpatient burn care lapse, which may include establishing a PCP prior to discharge, particularly among patients requiring more extensive burn management.

Genotypic variations of Tamarix aphylla (L.) H.Karst. population for heavy metal phytoremediation: a case study in Markazi province, Iran

BackgroundIn recent years, there has been a growing focus on utilizing suitable plant species for the extraction of heavy metals from contaminated soils. Trees offer a more economically viable option for remediating heavy metal-contaminated soils as their extensive root systems, substantial biomass, lower requirements, and management contribute to reduced operational costs. This study seeks to enhance the understanding of metal accumulation in Tamarix aphylla (L.) H.Karst. and to investigate the variation among different genotypes from the Markazi province in Iran. The genotypes were selected from 11 distinct locations within central Markazi province. One-year-old cuttings were planted in contaminated soil from the effluent outlet of an industrial area in mid-April. The morpho-physiological characteristics and levels of heavy metals in the plant tissues were assessed after a duration of three months.ResultsThe results revealed that the roots of the Ahmad-Abad genotype exhibited the highest levels of copper, iron, manganese, and zinc absorption, whereas its branches demonstrated the greatest sodium uptake. Notably, the Ahmad-Abad genotype also showed the highest potassium absorption. Collectively, these findings suggest that the Ahmad-Abad genotype is particularly suitable for phytoremediation efforts in contaminated environments due to its capacity to accumulate elevated levels of heavy metals.ConclusionsThe research study provides valuable insights into genetic variation, ecotype diversity, and the potential for genetic engineering to enhance phytoremediation processes in T. aphylla.

Perceived Benefits and Challenges of Integrating Lead Farmers into Tanzania’s Agricultural Extension System: A Case of Kagera Region

This study examined the perceived benefits and challenges associated with integrating Lead Farmers (LFs) into the government agricultural extension system in Tanzania, using Kagera Region as a case study. The continued shortage of extension officers in rural areas has prompted the use of the LFs model, which has mainly been introduced by non-governmental organisations and donor-supported projects to enhance peer-to-peer learning among farmers. Despite its growing relevance at the grassroots level, the model remains informal and has not been fully institutionalised within the national extension framework. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Respondents included smallholder farmers, extension personnel, NGO representatives, researchers, and local leaders. The findings revealed high levels of awareness and positive perceptions of LFs, particularly in terms of their role in promoting improved agricultural practices, enhancing farmer-to-farmer learning, and expanding access to relevant information. However, key challenges were identified, including irregular interaction with farmers, lack of official recognition, limited logistical and technical support, and weak coordination between actors. The study calls for deliberate policy and institutional efforts to formalise the integration of LFs into the public extension system. Key areas of action include developing clear operational guidelines, improving training and supervision systems, ensuring adequate facilitation and incentives, and strengthening collaboration between government institutions and non-state actors involved in agricultural extension

Impact of Organic Farming on Sustainable Agriculture Development – A Study on Mandya District

The study examines socio-economic aspects affecting organic agricultural adoption in Mandya, Karnataka, India. Using standardised questionnaires, 50 organic farms were surveyed about demographics, adoption, implementation, and economic outcomes. Percentage analysis and regression modelling are used to determine regional organic farming acceptance and economic viability factors. Organic agricultural implementation is examined in terms of certification, marketing channels, input access, government backing, and technical expertise. The methodology includes quantitative economic indicator analysis and farmers’ ecological benefit perceptions. Two hypotheses are examined using regression analysis to evaluate whether socio-economic factors or organic farming techniques better predict practitioner economic success. The findings benefit agricultural extension services, policymakers, and farmers contemplating organic approaches. The report also makes evidence-based recommendations for developing a sustainable agricultural ecosystem in southern Karnataka and other Indian agroecological zones.

Evaluating the Technical Efficiency of Dairy Farms Under Technological Heterogeneity: Evidence from Lithuania

The European Union’s (EU) Common Agricultural Policy aims to promote sustainable farming practices that ensure the responsible use of natural resources, safeguard biodiversity, and uphold higher animal welfare standards. One pathway to achieving these objectives is through the encouragement of extensive farming. However, the dairy sector in EU countries as well as in Lithuania has shown a clear trend toward intensification. The aim of this study was to assess the technical efficiency (TE) of dairy farms employing extensive and intensive technologies. TE was evaluated using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) combined with meta-frontier analysis, which accounts for technological heterogeneity. Prior to the efficiency estimation, farms were grouped into two distinct categories—intensive and extensive—using the k-means clustering algorithm. The empirical results show that extensive dairy farms in Lithuania are smaller in land area and livestock units, rely more on internal resources, and exhibit lower productivity compared to intensive farms. Intensive farms achieved higher technical efficiency, narrower technological gaps, and more optimal scale efficiency, indicating superior resource management. The weaker performance of extensive farms is attributed to both less advanced technologies and production inefficiencies.

Coexistence and habitat restoration planning for the reintroduction of Spix's macaw.

Spix's macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii) is one of the world's most endangered species. Native to the Caatinga of northeastern Brazil-a region marked by significant socioeconomic vulnerability-the species was considered extinct in the wild in 2000. A reintroduction project, however, returned it to its natural habitat in 2022. The long-term success of this reintroduction hinges on meticulous planning that promotes the coexistence of the birds with the local community and addresses the species' ecological requirements. This planning should be grounded in evidence derived from both scientific research and local knowledge. Moreover, it must adopt a participatory approach, given its explicit aim to generate benefits not only for the Spix's macaw but also for the human communities sharing its habitat. We devised a participatory planning process aimed at creating and implementing a theory of change for fostering human-Spix's macaw coexistence and restoring the species' habitat. Drawing on the results of a socioeconomic survey conducted from 2022 to 2023, we convened a workshop in 2024 that brought together representatives from the research, conservation, governmental, and local community sectors. Participants identified the 7 key human-Spix's macaw interactions and considered the positive and negative impacts of these interactions on the macaws and local communities: Caatinga restoration, tourism, extensive livestock farming, hunting and capture, wildlife management, deforestation, and the reintroduction. Fifty-seven drivers underlying these interactions were identified at the workshop, and participants proposed 51 targeted actions to address these drivers and foster positive changes in the interactions. The outcomes of the workshop are intended to guide local territorial development centered on conservation to contribute to a more sustainable future for one of the most emblematic species in global biodiversity conservation.

Digital technologies to accelerate the impact of climate smart agriculture by next-generation farmers in Africa

The adoption of digital technologies for scaling Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices can enhance agricultural productivity, food security, and livelihood sustainability of smallholder farmer communities in Africa. While digital agronomy supports for smallholder farmers present significant opportunities for strengthening agricultural extension systems, there are also significant barriers faced by smallholders in accessing and using digital agronomy services. Despite the rapid growth in phone and internet access in Africa, many smallholder farming communities and households lack effective access to the phone and internet services necessary for effective digital agronomy delivery. The digital divide that constrains smallholder farmers acts as a brake on the ambitions and targets for CSA scaling and for agricultural sector development across Africa, including in the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) held in Strategy and Action Plan, and the Kampala CAADP Declaration on Building Resilient and Sustainable Agrifood Systems in Africa. Currently, there are a broad range of digital technologies (e.g., radio, mobile phone apps, video, mobile phone apps, animations, and social media platforms) that can be harnessed for scaling CSA amongst smallholder farmers, with a rapidly growing number of digital agronomy developers and providers. However, the affordability of phone and internet services for poorer smallholders, in addition to lack of technology infrastructure and digital literacy skills, remains a barrier to “last mile” delivery of effective digital agronomy services. As digital access becomes more affordable and digital agronomy systems become more powerful, pervasive (e.g., via social media and peer-to-peer training approaches) and localized (e.g., using artificial intelligence and machine translation), there is significant potential for digital agronomy systems to augment and strengthen national agricultural extension systems supporting smallholder farmers. In particular, digital agronomy services can help accelerate scaling of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices for the millions of smallholder farmers who are most vulnerable to the unfolding climate crisis affecting their farming systems and livelihoods.

Prevalence of Salmonella outbreak in poultry farms: a comparative study of Osun and Ogun States, Nigeria

The study describes farm management practices, determines farmers’ knowledge of Salmonella, and identifies agricultural extension advisory services available to strengthen livestock farmers to examine the prevalence of Salmonella outbreaks among poultry farms in Osun and Ogun, Nigeria. The study utilized a cross-sectional survey of 240 poultry farmers and 60 agricultural extension workers from both states. Data was collected with an interview schedule and analysed using percentages, frequency count and mean. Results indicate that the majority (68.3% and 67.5% in Osun and Ogun States, respectively) of the respondents were males; the mean age of the respondents was 47 years and 46 years in Osun and Ogun States, respectively. High (100.0% and 78.3%) Salmonella disease outbreaks were experienced in Osun and Ogun, respectively. Semi-intensive and intensive production systems are the predominant production methods in both states. The results further reveal that 56.7% and 70.0% of respondents in Osun and Ogun states had over 15 years of regular contact with extension services, respectively. However, the majority (83.3% and 91.7%) of Extension agents in Osun and Ogun states were knowledgeable about the Salmonella infection. The study concluded that for better adherence against disease outbreaks in poultry farms, monitoring and evaluation of all advisory services rendered should be done to ensure compliance. It is therefore recommended that there be improved biosecurity practices across the study location and adequate extension services that will enhance biosecurity measures and training to mitigate Salmonella outbreaks in poultry farms in the study area. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 15(1): 115-126, June 2025

Effectiveness of Radio Agricultural Programs in Scaling up Farming Activities of Smallholder Farmers in Kasese District

Agricultural radio programs have long been recognised as a powerful tool for disseminating agricultural knowledge, especially among rural smallholder farmers. However, despite their potential, the effectiveness of these programs in scaling up farming activities has not been thoroughly examined in the context of Kasese District. The study addressed this gap by exploring the role of radio agricultural programs in enhancing the agricultural activities of smallholder farmers. The specific objectives were to: (i) assess the coverage, listenership, satisfaction, and implementation of acquired knowledge through agricultural extension radio programs; (ii) investigate the effectiveness of the programs on smallholder farming activities; and (iii) determine the factors associated with radio listenership and application of knowledge gained through agricultural radio messages. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional survey, utilising quantitative and qualitative approaches for data collection and analysis. Data was gathered from a sample of 360 respondents across 18 radio listener groups using questionnaires and interview guides. SPSS version 20.0 was used to analyse the data, generating descriptive and inferential statistics. The study established that coverage and listenership of agricultural radio programs were relatively high at 89.2% and 98.3% respectively, mostly in rural areas compared to urban settings. The Farmers’ Corner Program (52.5%) was the most popular radio program listened to. Farmers are implementing the knowledge gained through radio programs in various areas, including crop husbandry 27.3%, soil and water conservation 17.1%, animal health management 15.2%, and enterprise selection 12.8%. The programs were effective in supporting smallholder farmers’ decision-making processes as well as enhancing production practices. Evening hours were reported by 46.4% of the respondents as the most appropriate time for broadcasting radio programs, with farmers expressing a preference for interactive and participatory formats, which prioritised local languages 24.2% and indigenous knowledge 16.7%. Age (39-48 years) (p=0.002), radio ownership (p=0.000), place of residence (p=0.001), attitudes (p=0.003), limited agricultural spaces (p=0.032), media exposure (p=0.023), and investment capital (p=0.027) were the key factors influencing radio listenership and knowledge application. Despite the positive impact of the programs, certain barriers such as inappropriate airing times and limited access to radios hindered the full adoption of the information by farmers. The study concluded that agricultural extension radio programmes have a wider coverage and so pertinent to smallholder farmers’ activities; however, listenership and application of the knowledge gained through agricultural radio messages is still hampered by certain impediments that call for urgent address. The study therefore recommends that Radio formats be designed to reinforce messages to bring change among farmers to adopt new farming techniques for improved productivity.

Revisiting the Role of Agricultural Extension as a Technology Transfer Model: Insights from Students’ Reflections

Agricultural extension plays a crucial role in transferring agricultural technologies, with extension agents as key facilitators. In the U.S., these extension agents receive training through agricultural extension education programs offered by various universities and a bachelor’s degree is used as a required minimum qualification. On the other hand, in developing countries, an associate degree offered by community colleges is enough for one to serve as an agricultural extension agent. In all these programs, regardless of the requirements for minimum qualification, there is an increased focus on training the aspiring extension agents as technology transfer facilitators or agents. The focus of extension programs and methods significantly shapes students’ perceptions of the role of agricultural extension. This study sought to examine students’ perceptions of the role of agricultural extension in delivering extension services. A qualitative content analysis approach was utilized to analyze the perceptions of 22 students from Iowa State University. The results show a shift from the traditional, linear top-down approach to a more engaging, participatory model emphasizing human development. The participants noted the need to incorporate farmer knowledge and experiences in agricultural technology design and development, fostering collaborative innovation and focusing on the specific needs of individual farmers. Importantly, this manuscript is not intended as a critical review of the U.S. Cooperative Extension system but rather as a reflection of the participants’ global perspectives on extension. While we acknowledge that these perspectives may not be universally applicable across all countries, the insights provided valuable information on students’ perceptions of extension.

NDEMRI: An AI-Driven SMS Platform for Equitable Agricultural Extension in Rural Africa

NDEMRI: An AI-Driven SMS Platform for Equitable Agricultural Extension in Rural Africa

Buffaloes in South America: A Promising and Sustainable Source of Dairy Proteins and Agro‐Industrial Development

ABSTRACTBuffalo (Bubalus bubalis) production offers a promising and sustainable solution to meet the growing demand for food. Particularly, buffalo milk constitutes a valuable source of high‐quality proteins with outstanding technological potential. This review highlights the opportunities of the buffalo dairy value chain as a strategic and sustainable agro‐industrial alternative in South America, emphasizing its contributions to food security, socio‐economic development, and environmentally responsible production. The buffalo's biological and productive characteristics that support its convenience over traditionally farmed livestock (e.g., Bos taurus or Bos indicus) are discussed. Buffaloes' adaptive traits allow them to thrive in marginal environments under extensive farming practices through sustainable production systems. Their high efficiency in converting low‐quality forage and agro‐industrial by‐products into high‐nutritional animal protein, along with their environmental and economic benefits, are examined. Furthermore, the nutritional composition of buffalo milk and current knowledge on its health‐promoting properties, with a special emphasis on its protein fraction, are thoroughly reviewed. The physicochemical properties of buffalo milk make it suitable for producing derivatives with high yield, existing in a wide range of products yet to be explored. This review discusses the potential of the buffalo dairy industry, focusing on the development of innovative food products and value‐added by‐products. In particular, this review presents available information on buffalo whey and its proteins. It also covers recent advances in their molecular properties, recovery methods, and promising applications.

Participation in Informal Cooperation in Water Management and Adoption of Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Empirical Evidence From Uzbekistan

ABSTRACTCentral Asian agriculture faces significant challenges, including low adoption rates of sustainable agricultural practices (SAPs). One contributing factor is the inefficiency of agricultural extension systems, which struggle to meet farmers' informational needs due to outdated content and ineffective communication. In this context, informal cooperation among farmers plays a crucial role in sharing agricultural knowledge. Focussing on Uzbekistan's irrigated areas, our study investigates the impact of farmers' participation in informal water management cooperation on the intensity of SAP adoption. Using pooled two‐year survey data of 858 farmers, we employ the Marginal Treatment Effects model to account for potential selection bias and heterogeneity across farmers. The results indicate that participation in informal cooperation positively influences SAP adoption intensity, particularly among farmers with larger land holdings and better soil quality. Moreover, farmers already inclined to participate in informal cooperation benefit the most in terms of increased intensity of SAP adoption. Our findings suggest that promoting community‐managed irrigation can be an effective strategy to enhance SAP adoption in Uzbekistan. However, the effects of informal cooperation are not uniform across all farmers, necessitating differentiated support mechanisms that address the specific needs, challenges and unobservable characteristics of various farmer groups.

Empowering Women through Agricultural Technology: Evidence from Agricultural Technology Management Agency (Atma) in Mayurbhanj District

The Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) was introduced in India to decentralize agricultural extension services and make them more participatory, demand driven and farmer centric. In Odisha and particularly in the tribal dominated district of Mayurbhanj, Women farmers play a vital role in agricultural activities. However, they often face systematic barriers to accessing new technologies, institutional support and training. This study aims to evaluate the impact of ATMA on the knowledge enhancement and adoption of modern agricultural practices among Women farmers in Mayurbhanj district. Using a sample of 200 beneficiaries selected through a multi stage sampling technique, primary data were collected through structured interviews, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. The findings reveal a significant improvement in awareness and adoption of modern technologies such as improved seed varieties, Fertilizer and pesticide use and disease control. Despite these gains challenges such as limited access to credit, socio-cultural constraints and lack of gender-specific training modules continue to hinder full participation and benefit realization.

Role of Agriculture Extension and Rural Advisory Services in Strengthening Climate‐Smart Agricultural System: A Systematic Review

ABSTRACTIntroductionAgriculture Extension and Rural Advisory Services (AERAS) are the powerhouse of sustainable agricultural development. Conversely, Climate‐Smart Agriculture is the core of farm sustainability and food security. The study aimed at investigating the role of AERAS in strengthening climate‐smart agricultural system.Materials and MethodsThe review was conducted employing Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta Analyses (PRISMA). The period for the database searching was confined to 2000 and 2024, and in total, 47 articles were ultimately reviewed.ResultsFindings signify that most of the research had been conducted in the world's developing and least developed nations of Africa and South Asia (32 papers), accounting for about 68%. Outcomes show that diffusion of innovations and collaboration with multiple stakeholders (68.1%) was the foremost role of AERAS. On the contrary, negotiations and lobbying for the best policies (31.9%) were identified as the secondary role. However, capacity building and human resources development (63.8%), performing intermediary functions and supporting extension learning processes (55.3%) were found potential role of AERAS towards climate‐smart farming system. Moreover, ambiguous role, maladaptation, poor coordination, and geographical disparities were detected as research loopholes.ConclusionDepartment of agriculture extension and policy research can leverage the findings as a set of guidelines for the provision of demand‐driven extension services at farm level, revision of curriculum and principles to support smart farming system. The study is very worthy because it focuses on the role of AERAS in fostering farmers' adaptation and resilience capacity, basically to help kick‐start climate‐smart agricultural system.

A Two-Stage Machine Learning Approach for Calving Detection in Rangeland Cattle

Monitoring parturient cattle during calving is crucial for reducing cow and calf mortality, enhancing reproductive and production performance, and minimizing labor costs. Traditional monitoring methods include direct animal inspection or the use of specialized sensors. These methods can be effective, but impractical in large-scale ranching operations due to time, cost, and logistical constraints. To address this challenge, a network of low-power and long-range IoT sensors combining the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and tri-axial accelerometers was deployed to monitor in real-time 15 parturient Brangus cows on a 700-hectare pasture at the Chihuahuan Desert Rangeland Research Center (CDRRC). A two-stage machine learning approach was tested. In the first stage, a fully connected autoencoder with time encoding was used for unsupervised detection of anomalous behavior. In the second stage, a Random Forest classifier was applied to distinguish calving events from other detected anomalies. A 5-fold cross-validation, using 12 cows for training and 3 cows for testing, was applied at each iteration. While 100% of the calving events were successfully detected by the autoencoder, the Random Forest model failed to classify the calving events of two cows and misidentified the onset of calving for a third cow by 46 h. The proposed framework demonstrates the value of combining unsupervised and supervised machine learning techniques for detecting calving events in rangeland cattle under extensive management conditions. The real-time application of the proposed AI-driven monitoring system has the potential to enhance animal welfare and productivity, improve operational efficiency, and reduce labor demands in large-scale ranching. Future advancements in multi-sensor platforms and model refinements could further boost detection accuracy, making this approach increasingly adaptable across diverse management systems, herd structures, and environmental conditions.