Exploration of constraints in availability, accessibility and utilization of online platforms for agricultural technology transfer during COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Utilizing electronic media is crucial to keep farmers updated on the latest agricultural information and technologies, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Online media emerges as a pivotal tool for extension personnel and farmers alike in facilitating effective agricultural technology transfer. Despite the significance of online platforms, both farmers and extension personnel encounter numerous challenges in ensuring successful online technology transfer. The study was conducted in Kerala during 2021-22, focuses on farmers who underwent online training and the extension personnel who conducted the training during Covid-19 pandemic. Data were collected through personal interviews using a meticulously designed and pre-tested interview schedule. A total of 150 respondents comprising of 100 farmers and 50 extension personnel, constitute the total sample size. Constraints experienced by the farmers and extension officials during online agricultural technology transfer were identified and were then ranked with mean score for each. The important constraints faced by the farmer respondents were poor internet connectivity, expensive internet packs and high cost of digital devices. The major constraints faced by extension official during organizing and implementing online training programs were poor internet connectivity, poor infrastructure facilities and limited availability of devices.