International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Keyur Modi and Swati Sharma

abstract
Agriculture serves as the backbone of the Indian economy, and the 21st century is often referred to as the "Information Age" and that has significantly impacted this agriculture sector. Access to agricultural information is essential for optimizing production factors such as land, labour, capital, and management. In this the extension services, research institutions, and agricultural organizations play a crucial role in delivering relevant and reliable information that supports farmers' decision-making processes, ultimately boosting productivity. In this context, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is emerging as a transformative force in agriculture, driving rural development in India. ICT applications provide farmers with timely and accurate information, enhancing their capabilities in areas such as agro-inputs, crop production technologies, market access, and financial management. This study investigates the perceived benefits of ICT usage among the farmers of South Gujarat, focusing on three districts: Navsari, Valsad, and Surat. A total of 300 farmers participated, with data collected through a structured interview schedule. The findings indicated that, among 28 assessed parameters categorized into managerial, operational, technical, and financial benefits, the most significant perceived advantage was the enhancement of decision-making power through modern ICT tools. Additional notable insights include the impact of agricultural information disseminated via television and the usefulness of the Kisan Call Centre's toll-free number for resolving agricultural queries. Overall, the study underscores the need for continued investment in ICT initiatives and infrastructure to further enhance the benefits for farmers.