Access and usage of information and communication technology (ICT) to accelerate farmers’ income Panda Subhrajyoti1, Research Scholar, Modak Satarupa1, Research Scholar, Devi Yanglem Lakshimai1, Research Scholar, Das Litan1, Assistant Professor, Pal P.K.1, Professor, Nain M.S.2,*, Principal Scientist 1Department of Agricultural Extension, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Coochbehar, 736165, West Bengal 2Division of Extension Education, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi-110012 *Corresponding author email id: msnain@gmail.com
Abstract Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is the resultant output of all modes of transmission like electronic devices, networks, mobiles, services and applications which help to disseminate information immediately and effectively. Timely availability and accurate information has proved very crucial in identifying and mitigating pest and disease prevalence, drought management and also knowing proper market for proper price. ICT has now become a reliable instrument to achieve this goal in India. Although ICT have escalated the living standard of Indian farmers and made them ICT-friendly which has resulted in increased penetration of useful information about crops husbandry as well as animal production, but rural India has yet to achieve full swing towards usage of ICT by the common farmers. The present study is an attempt to explore the status of access and usage of ICT, and perceived constraints towards utilisation of this new but challenging opportunity. The data from 100 farmers interviewed from selected villages of Dhenkanal district of Odisha through a structured schedule revealed that although they have access to the ICT tools but those tools are mostly used to get benefit of general communication and entertainment purpose and less for marketing and other productive purpose. The study suggests developing awareness and skill o f the farmers to use ICT tools for their farming benefits. Top Keywords Information and communication technology, Access, Usage, Access-usage index. Top |