Topic: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions; economics of animal-rearing.
4) Discuss the significance of ICT / E-technology in intensifying the reach of extension services to farmers in the country.(250 words)
Why this question:
The question is direct and is about discussing the role of ICT in extending services to farmer communities of the country.
Key demand of the question:
Explain in detail role played by E- technology/ICT in aid of farmers.
Directive:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin with brief on what are the ICT/e-technology services available for farmers in the country.
Body:
The application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in agriculture is increasingly important. E-Agriculture is an emerging field focusing on the enhancement of agricultural and rural development through improved information and communication processes. More specifically, e-Agriculture involves the conceptualization, design, development, evaluation and application of innovative ways to use information and communication technologies (ICT) in the rural domain, with a primary focus on agriculture. ICT promises a fundamental change in all aspects of our lives, including knowledge dissemination, social interaction, economic and business practices, political engagement, media, education, health, leisure and entertainment.
ICTs are most natural allies to facilitate the outreach of Agricultural Extension system in the country. Despite large, well-educated, well-trained and well-organized Agricultural extension manpower, around 60% of farmers in the country still remain un-reached, not served by any extension agency or functionary.
Conclusion:
Conclude that information per se is not enough, but appropriate communications systems are needed to ensure that information come to farmers in an effective, accurate and clear way.
