Abstract: We are witnessing an increase in the use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in almost all spheres of life, and this will continue to influence every facet of human endeavour in the knowledge era. Technological advances have facilitated convergence of voice, data and multimedia applications, enabling all communications traffic to be managed and delivered over multi-purpose platforms. ICT potential and its ability to support integrated development with long-term social and economic benefits have been recognized globally, and policy guidelines are being framed for its use despite problems of access, connectivity, literacy, contents and costs. Extension, which depends to a large extent, on information exchange, has been identified as one area in which ICT can have a significant impact.
The dimensions and scope of extension services are changing due to socio-economic factors; and face challenges in areas of relevance, accountability and sustainability. Agriculture is becoming knowledge-based and future agricultural growth would largely accrue from improvements in productivity of diversified farming systems. Information requirements of the farmers and rural youth are increasing and linear information flows that dominated the traditional model of technology transfer are being replaced by pluralistic information flows. It is essential to harness the potential of ICT in the backdrop of new challenges and FAO observations that 'extension' coverage in developing countries is grossly inadequate, both in quantitative and qualitative terms.
This paper enlists examples of ICT initiatives in agriculture extension particularly in reference to India. The scope and potential to translate these models of ICT will vary greatly between different countries and regions. However, some experiences have been indicated to overcome generic problems. The paper outlines issues in designing a framework. The core issues are: (a) connectivity (telecommunication access policy, availability and affordability of telecommunications infrastructure, equipment and support), (b) contents (relevant, dynamic) and their development, and (c) capacities and attitudes of farmers and extension workers. Open Learning System shall play a major role in the emerging Agricultural Knowledge and Information System for Rural Development (AKIS/RD):