Authors : Arnavi A. Nakhate, Aditya Sharma and Gouri Reddy
Page Nos : 114-120
Description :
In India, agriculture employs nearly half (45.6%) of the workforce, but the sector contributes only 13.5% to GDP, with smallholder farmers, who constitute 85% of operational holdings, facing persistent poverty and financial vulnerability. Inefficiencies in agricultural extension services contribute to these significant challenges for farmers, including low productivity, financial distress, and vulnerability to climate change and market volatility. This research paper addresses the structural and institutional constraints of India's agricultural extension system, focusing on the manpower deficit, weak linkages between research and field practices, and limited farmer empowerment. Using a data-driven approach informed by stakeholder consultation and secondary datasets from FAO, ICAR, and government sources, this study evaluates both global and Indian models of extension. The analysis identifies three interdependent strategies to address these gaps: (1) digital advisory platforms powered by AI and mobile technologies to provide localized, real-time solutions; (2) strengthening public-private partnerships to scale technologies, integrate markets, and ensure sustainability by leveraging the existing governmental schemes; and (3) farmer-centric approaches including agroecology networks and peer-to-peer digital platforms to foster resilience and self-reliance. Evidence from pilots in India, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Kenya demonstrates substantial improvements in productivity, incomes and resource efficiency. The paper argues that restructured extension services can transform Indian agriculture into a resilient and inclusive system, aligning with national goals such as Viksit Bharat 2047 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
