Effectiveness of mobile based SMS in transfer of agricultural technology

Abstract

Effective communication strategy is need of the hour to enable research results to reach the farmers fields without much time lag. Hence, it is obvious to use modern ways of communication besides traditional methods of communication. KVK, Amadalavalasa has started sending mobile based SMS through WAY 2 SMS to the KVK registered farmers to transfer of agricultural technology since June 2010. Here study was conducted with the objective of studying the effectiveness of mobile based SMS in transfer of agricultural technology. Efforts should be made to disseminate complete and precise information on all aspects of crop and related information for harnessing the possibilities of utilizing the information, The mobile service authorities need to take extra care to streamline the system so as to prepare relevant content for maximum utility by the end users. Hence more concentration should be given on demand and need of the farmer rather than the technology. Leaders are needed for the long haul as interventions that require new infrastructure or policy and institutional reforms take years to complete. Real time agro advisory is need of the hour to cover more number of farmers. Voice messages may be preferable than text messages for covering illiterate farmers. KVKs and other extension functionaries can make new platforms to reach the unreach through mobile advisory.