Information and Communication Technology for Strengthening Krishi Vigyan Kendras: A Comprehensive Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18058898Keywords:
Agricultural extension, Digital extension, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, Public extension system, Technology disseminationAbstract
Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) are acting as front level agricultural extension centres whose major role involves evaluating, refining, and spreading the technologies. Nevertheless, traditional extension methods generally have issues concerning the restricted coverage, promptness and reaction to the changing information demands of farmers. In this regard, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have come out as a good means of enhancing extension service delivery. The current review is a compilation of the literature to analyse the impact of ICTs to reinforce the operations of Krishi Vigyan Kendras. The review is based on the published research articles, institutional reports and extension documents on ICT applications in KVKS and governmental system of agricultural extensions in India. It is analysed with the help of an ICTKVK Strengthening Framework that connects the ICT inputs to the key KVK functions, output extensions, results, and long-term effects. The results show that the ICT tools, including mobile-based advisories, social media, web portals, and decision support systems can improve outreach, facilitate the dissemination of information in a timely and need-based manner, and improve the interactions between farmers and scientists. ICT integration assists in enhancing the knowledge and skills of farmers, the use of recommended technology, and farm level decision making. In the long term, ICT-based KVKs help to enhance agricultural productivity, livelihood security, dissemination of climate-resilient activities, and enhance the public extension system. In spite of these advantages, there are still infrastructure-related, digital literacy-related, institutional capacity-related, and sustainability-related challenges. ICTs should be strategically incorporated in the traditional methods of extension in order to achieve the full potential of ICTs in enhancing Krishi Vigyan Kendras and promoting sustainable agricultural development.
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