eChapters

e-Governance can be defined as the application of information and communication technology (ICT) for providing government services, exchange of information, transactions and integration of previously existing services and information portals. The "e" in e-Governance stands for 'electronic'.

e-Governance refers to the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), particularly web-based applications, to provide access to and deliver information/service to the public, businesses, other agencies and governmental entities faster, cheaper, easier and more efficiently.

The Council of Europe referred to e-governance as: "The use of electronic technologies in three areas of public action

1. Relations between the public authorities and civil society

Social media are electronic communication platforms that allow users to interact, create, share, retrieve and exchange information and ideas in different forms.

Social media refers to the means of interactions among people in which they create, share, and/or exchange information and ideas in virtual communities and networks.

There are many forms of social media including blogs, micro-blogs, wikis, social networking sites, photo-sharing sites, instant messaging, video-sharing sites, podcasts, widgets, virtual worlds, and more. Ex: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Youtube etc.,

Role of social media in Transfer of Technology

M-Agriculture

Mobile phones have changed the scenario of telecommunication. It is a source of communication for fast dissemination of information. Today, mobile usage has enabled farming communities to access agricultural and other business information without travelling long distances or reducing costs, time and money. Keeping in view the lower ratio of the farmer to the extension worker (1000: 1) and the inability of the extension workers to guide the farmers as per their information needs, the new concept of m-Agriculture (m-Krishi) has emerged at the beginning of twenty-first century all over the world including India.

The intersection of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) with agriculture has sparked a transformative revolution in the farming landscape. ICT projects in agriculture represent a paradigm shift, leveraging technological advancements to optimize farming practices, enhance productivity and ensure sustainable food production. From precision farming and data-driven decision-making to innovative tools and connectivity solutions, these projects harness the power of digital innovation to address challenges and drive efficiency across the agricultural sector. In this era where technology has become a cornerstone of progress, ICT projects stand as beacons of hope, ushering in a new era of smarter, more resilient and eco-conscious agriculture. The initiatives of ICT projects in agriculture and allied sectors

Kisan Call Centre (1551)

The department of agriculture and cooperation (DAC) Ministry of agriculture, Government of India launched kisan call centres on January 21, 2004 across the country to deliver extension services to the farming community. It provides information in all major languages through toll-free telephone no 1551 and 1800180 1551 from 6 a.m. to 10.p.m. on all 7 days of a week. on BSNL routes. With a view to monitor the KCC activities a state level monitoring committee (SLMC) has been constituted in each KCC. Presently there are — kccs in the country.

The kisan call centers consists of three levels

Conference

A conference is a formal gathering where people come together to discuss, exchange ideas, present research and engage in discussions on specific topics or fields of interest. These gatherings can vary widely in scale, purpose and format, bringing together professionals, researchers, academics, industry experts, or enthusiasts.

Audio conferencing

Its also called Teleconference, which means meeting a group or party via a phone call instead of meeting them physically. In most cases, standard telephone lines and speakerphones are employed. The person who starts the audio conference called the calling party and the people who are attending the calls are known as participants. Technology requirement of the audio conference:

1. Phone/Computer with access to internet connection
2. Speakers
3. Microphone

Cyber extension

Cyber extension means extension over cyberspace. In the applied context of agriculture cyber extension means using of power of online networks, communications channels and interactive multimedia to improve information access for farmers, extension workers, research scientists and extension managers.

Advantages of cyber extension

1. Cyber extension will save time, money, and effort
2. Cyber extension reduces the dependence of the farmers on extension functionaries
3. Easily accessible in remote areas
4. Can provide an early warning system before the natural disaster
5. Cyber extension will be available continuously.

Information and communication technology (ICT) is the combination of hardware, software and the means of production that enables the collection, exchange, processing and management of information and knowledge. It includes social media, portals, websites, kisan call centers and expert systems etc.,

Need of ICT in agriculture and rural development

• For increasing the productivity and efficiency in agriculture
• Globalization, Modernization, Challenges and Opportunities across the world for Sharing of knowledge.
• Public Expenditure and gaps in extension could be reduced
• For effective utilization of available platforms
• Penetration of smartphones even in villages and the transfer of information

Introduction

As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, the agricultural sector faces escalating challenges. The need for climate-resilient agriculture has never been more urgent. This chapter embarks on a journey to unravel the intricacies of adapting farming practices to changing weather patterns. It explores the multifaceted nature of climate change impacts on agriculture, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and resilient solutions.

Understanding Climate Change And Agriculture

The chapter begins by elucidating the current state of climate change and its specific implications for agriculture. It highlights shifts in temperature, altered precipitation patterns, and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, underscoring the urgency for proactive adaptation measures.

Introduction

The dawn of the 21st century brings with it unprecedented challenges for agriculture - challenges that demand a departure from conventional practices and a harmonious integration of spirituality and sustainable methodologies. In this pursuit, Bio Dynamic Farming emerges as a beacon, guiding farmers to cultivate not only crops but also a deeper understanding of the spiritual dimensions intertwined with the earth's rhythms. Rooted in the visionary teachings of Rudolf Steiner and his anthroposophical principles, Bio Dynamic Farming transcends the mechanistic view of agriculture, offering a holistic paradigm where spirituality and sustainable agriculture dance in unison.

Introduction

The foundation of human civilization has traditionally been agriculture, which offers sustenance, economic security, and a strong bond with the land. Nevertheless, although playing a crucial role, the global agricultural sector faces many difficulties, including resource shortages and climate change as well as a fast-expanding population. The empowerment of women and young people in agriculture stands out as a critical answer in this situation, driving not only agricultural sustainability but also promoting social and economic advancement. In agriculture, empowerment refers to the fair inclusion and active involvement of women and young people in all facets of the industry, including leadership and decision-making as well as production and distribution. It admits that despite these groups' enormous latent potential, they have been ignored and underutilized for far too long.

Introduction

The agricultural landscape is not just about cultivating fields; it's a narrative woven with resilience, dedication, and untold stories of women who have been the backbone of this fundamental sector for centuries. Their contributions, often overlooked or undervalued, are the bedrock of agricultural sustenance worldwide. Throughout history, women have played multifaceted roles in agriculture, nurturing crops, tending to livestock, and managing households while being instrumental in the evolution of farming practices. Despite their pivotal roles, societal norms and systemic biases have marginalized their contributions, limiting access to resources, land ownership, education, and decision-making power.

1. Introduction

A key element in the world of agriculture, agricultural extension has long been seen as the link between scientific knowledge and the practical needs of farmers. This chapter examines how technological advancements, particularly those related to artificial intelligence (AI) and the internet of things (IoT), are fundamentally altering agricultural extension services and the agricultural industry as a whole.

1.1 Definition of Agricultural Extension

The process of sharing knowledge, information, and innovations with farmers and rural communities in order to enhance their agricultural practices and, in turn, their livelihoods, is known as agricultural extension.

Introduction

In an era defined by unprecedented connectivity and shared global challenges, the assurance of food security emerges as a cornerstone of human welfare and societal stability. At its core, the concept of global food security embodies a delicate equilibrium—wherein the abundant availability, accessibility, utilization, and consistency of nutritious sustenance are assured for all. Yet, this equilibrium remains precariously fragile amidst a confluence of modern predicaments. The imperatives of nourishment transcend mere sustenance; they intertwine with the fabric of public health, economic fortitude, and societal harmony. The imperious need to address food security issues stems from the stark realities it imposes: a profound impact on individual health, the stifling of economic prosperity, and the potential for social unrest. 

Introduction

In the verdant landscapes and bustling fields of India, the heartbeat of a nation pulses through its agriculture. For millennia, farming has been not just a livelihood but an intrinsic part of the cultural fabric, shaping traditions, festivals, and the very essence of community life. Yet, the modern agricultural practices, driven by the pursuit of higher yields, have strained the very soil that nurtured this civilization for centuries. In this crucible of tradition and progress, a beacon of hope emerges - regenerative agriculture - offering a path to restore, revitalize, and safeguard India's precious ecosystems.

Introduction

The agricultural sector stands at a crossroads, facing the dual challenge of meeting the escalating global demand for food while grappling with the impact of climate change and an aging farming population. In this context, the empowerment of youth emerges as a beacon of hope, holding the key to transforming agriculture into a dynamic, sustainable, and innovative sector. This chapter embarks on a journey to explore the pivotal role of empowering youth in agriculture, underscoring its significance not only on a global scale but also within the vibrant context of India, notably in the state of Odisha.

Introduction

Agriculture came into existence around 12,000 years ago laying foundations for human civilization, helping people to live in a permanent settlement instead of a continuous nomadic lifestyle. The primitive form of farming was subsistence farming, where all the crops and livestock raised by the farmers was solely for the consumption of their family or community. People exchanged what they produced. The activity of marketing was just an activity of distribution. With development of civilization with social stratification, developed transportation and communication, the process of marketing became necessary and complex at the same time.

Introduction

Sustainable farming, rooted in the harmonious interaction between nature and agriculture, stands as a beacon of hope for India's agricultural landscape, paving the way for a resilient and ecologically balanced future. In a world increasingly confronted by environmental challenges, the urgency to adopt sustainable farming practices has become paramount, and India, with its rich agricultural heritage, exemplifies a tapestry of wisdom and innovation in this regard.For millennia, India's agrarian communities have cultivated a deep relationship with the land, inheriting traditional farming practices that fostered harmony with nature. From the ancient techniques of the Indus Valley Civilization to the holistic principles of Ayurveda influencing farming methods, the country's agricultural history is a repository of sustainable wisdom. These practices, ingrained in the cultural fabric, not only sustained livelihoods but also preserved the ecological equilibrium.

6.1 Role of Media in Democracy: Introduction

The media is the fourth pillar of democracy. The media has a critical role in creating a democratic culture that transcends the political system and gradually enters the general public's consciousness. Voters rely on the political information provided by the media to make their selections. They facilitate discussion and help discover issues facing our society.

5.1 Basics of Writing

Writing news stories involves a specific set of guidelines and practices to ensure accuracy, clarity, and effective communication.

• Writing News Stories

A methodical approach is necessary when writing news articles in order to provide accurate, educational, and captivating information.

4.1 The Meaning of Journalism

The profession and practice of journalism entail gathering, confirming, analysing, and distributing news and information to the general public. Reporters, often known as journalists, are essential to the accurate, timely, and insightful coverage of events, problems, and advancements that have an impact on society. They are responsible for presenting the facts, providing diverse viewpoints, and conveying information in a clear, objective, and ethical manner.

3.1 Language and Principles of Writing: Basic Differences Between the Print, Electronic and Online News

Because each media has a unique readership with different needs, writing for print, electronic, and digital news demands distinct terminology and approaches. Here are the key differences:

Print News: Language

1. Conciseness: Print news requires concise and to-the-point writing due to limited space.
2. Formal Language: Language tends to be more formal and structured.
3. Third Person: Writing is often in the third person.
4. Headlines: Print headlines are shorter and must convey the essence of the story.

2.1 Audio-Visual Aids Classification

Audio-visual aids are tools that combine auditory and visual stimuli to facilitate learning and improve comprehension. They can make abstract ideas more concrete and understandable. Here's a classification of some commonly used audio-visual aids:

• Audio Aids

• Tape recorders: are tools for teaching that playback sound or music.
• Radio: Programmes can serve as educational resources and audio learning aids.
• Podcasts are digital audio programs or episodes with a focus on learning.

1.1 Meaning

The English word 'communication' is derived from the Latin communis, which means common sense. In other words, it is the transmission and interaction of facts, ideas, opinions, feelings, or attitudes. Communication is a two-way process that involves transferring info rmation or messages from one person or group to another. This process goes on and includes a minimum of one sender and receiver to pass on the messages. These messages can either be any ideas, imagination, emotions, or thoughts. Communication is a Latin word that means "to share".

Editing

Editing is the process of refining the content, structure, grammar, and presentation of a written work. Editing is done to make sure that your thoughts are communicated to the reader as clearly as possible.

It takes more than just changing a word, adding a comma here and there, and fixing spelling errors to edit a tale. The procedures below must be followed in order to edit effectively.

1. Read the story from beginning to end first. The writer’s intent will become clearer to you at this point. Then check to see if it addresses the following queries: what? Why? Where? When? Who? and how - regarding the topic.

2. Make your notes in the margin while keeping these inquiries in mind.

3. Next, consider the general level of education and comprehension of your magazine or letter’s readers. Make a note of every word you believe they won’t comprehend.

4. Next, determine how long the story should be. What room in your magazine can you offer it? It is preferable to rewrite the story rather than attempt to condense it by omitting some details if you need a very brief copy.

5. Verify that the information is logically ordered and, if a process story, that the directions are comprehensive and given in the right sequence.

Cutlines, another name for photo captions, are a few lines of text that provide context or additional information for published images. In some circumstances, captions and cutlines are distinct from one another. A caption is a brief (often one-line) title or explanation for the picture, whereas a cutline is a longer, prose block that describes the picture more thoroughly, provides context, or connects it to the article.

The first things people read in a publication are frequently the photo captions. A crucial component of a news photographer’s job is writing captions for photos. The reader should receive the essential information from a photo caption in order to comprehend the image and its news value.

Caption writing should adhere to the same professional standards of clarity, accuracy, and completeness as any other writing that appears in a publication. A lousy caption can lessen the impact of a beautiful photo and damage the caption’s reputation as journalism by being uninformative or, worse, misleading. Why should readers believe the rest of the publication if they can’t trust the accuracy of the straightforward information in a caption?

A decoration, interpretation, or visual explanation of a text, concept, or process that is intended to be included in published media including posters, flyers, magazines, books, teaching materials, animations, video games, and films is called an illustration.

Using Illustrations

We can comprehend information better when it is shown. Illustrations were one of our first forms of communication, long before any kind of contemporary writing. In reality, new discoveries of cave drawings from more than 35,000 years ago show that humanity have been using images to communicate for a very long time. This did not occur by accident; according to study, over 90% of the information we process is visual, and a significant portion of our brain is dedicated to visual processing.

Benefits of using Illustrations

The ease with which a text can be read is referred to as readability. Complexity, recognizability, legibility, and typography are all possible inclusions. Sentence length, syllable density, and word familiarity are common considerations in readability algorithms.

It refers to how easily a reader can comprehend a written content. The complexity of a text’s vocabulary and syntax, as well as how it is presented, determine how easily it may be understood in natural language (such as typographic aspects like font size, line height, and line length).

Why is readability important?

Fundamentals of writing farm stories

1. Use of plain and simple language: A farm journalist would have translated technical terms into their plain language.

2. Presentation of novel ideas: People are open to new concepts that are logically explained and will increase their return on investment as a whole.

3. Keep the message brief and to the point so that farmers can recall it. The information should be focused on the benefits that can be attained without using an excessive amount of wording.

4. Use of visuals: Visuals add interest, are more memorable, and have deeper significance. A statement is more understandable and pleasing to the eye when there are more visuals present.

5. Farmers are very receptive to messages that are recent, reliable, realistic, and relevant (the “4Rs”).

6. The audience appreciates and accepts the message that is centred on their environment, locations, and selves.

• A title should be able to talk. It ought to make a point that both informs and amuses the audience.

• A headline needs to be concise and sum up the story.

• A headline should engage readers and entice them to read the material behind it.

• Make use of recognisable acronyms.

• Assist in setting the publication’s general tone.

• The headline ought to be assertive and upbeat.

• Function as a visual component on the page.

Choosing and designing news headlines

• If necessary, the headline should be written in all capital letters.

• Double-tick the letter that needs to be capitalised.

Sources of information

News is constantly occurring. There is a newsworthy event happening somewhere in the world every minute of every day.

People, letters, books, files, videos, cassettes, and other materials thatjoumahsts utilise to put together news articles can all serve as sources of information.

Types of sources

Primary sources: A person with first-hand knowledge of a problem or a document they produced can both be considered primary sources.

They are typically the best sources of knowledge regarding their particular aspect of what occurred. They should be able to provide you with reliable information as well as powerful opinions.

Example: Artifacts, audio recordings, diaries, internet communication, interview, letters, peer-reviewed journal articles, original documents, patents, photos, proceedings, records of organizations, speeches, videos, survey results, works of art, web sites.

Types

• News story

• Feature story

• Success story

• Popular article

• Radio and TV script

• Process or utility feature

• General information feature

• Experience feature

• Personality feature

News story

• Any new information, idea, event, situation or development, that is of interest to a large number of people, is a news.

• Any event when reported becomes a news.

The term “communication media” describes the channels through which data or information is sent and received. These tools or channels for data storage and transmission are known as transmission and storage means in telecommunication.

It is the effective weapon in today’s environment that eliminates societal ills and anomalies.

Popular types of communication media

Television: Transmits and receives moving images that can be monochrome (black-and-white) or coloured, with or without accompanying sound. Audiovisual medium of communication

Radio: Uses electromagnetic waves with frequencies lower than visible light to modulate and transmit signals. Modulation in electronics is the process of changing one or more characteristics of the carrier signal, a high frequency periodic waveform, in relation to a modulating signal.

Definition

Agricultural journalism is a specialized branch of journalism that deals with the techniques of receiving, writing, editing and reporting from information through the media like newspapers, periodicals, radio, TV, advertising etc. and the management processes connected with such production. It is the timely reporting and editing with words and photography of agricultural news and information for newspaper, magazine, radio and television.

It is otherwise known as Farm journalism

Farm journalism is very important for communicating with farm people. More and more of the extension staff’s writing is being read or listened to in newspapers, magazines, brochures, pamphlets, bulletins, circular letters, wall newspapers, and radio scripts. The written work makes working as a consultant with farmers more fascinating.

Principles of Farm/Agricultural journalism

The word journalism is derived from the word “Journal” which means a daily register or a diary.

• Journalism is the written, spoken, or visual dissemination of information about a day’s events.

• A journalist is someone who works as a writer or editor for a newspaper or magazine.

• Father of journalism: Joseph Pulitzer

• Father of journalism in India: James Augustus Hicky

The concept of capacity development is defined in various ways. Broadly, it is defined as a process by which skills, and knowledge are built, utilized, retained and nurtured with a view to provide an entity responding to a development challenge. Two components that are vital in any plausible definition of the concept are human skills (the ability to perform a task) and institutions (effectiveness and efficiency of organizations, systems, processes and procedures).

Identify main reasons and purpose of curriculum development and key areas needed by stakeholders for curriculum change. This can be done by adopting participatory methods like Focus group discussion/ field level workshops. Carry out stakeholder analysis and identify specific potential areas suggested by stakeholders to be included in the curriculum for better performance at the f ield level and their likely role in the process. In order to encourage greater stakeholder involvement invite stakeholders such as staff and students from various farm universities, field extension workers and farmers.

Participatory curriculum reorientation awareness-raising workshop for key stakeholders: In the present study focus group discussion and workshops were conducted to know the effectiveness of present curriculum of extension education with different stakeholders (Students UG, PG and Ph.D, Extension teachers, Field extension workers and farmers). Data were collected by using schedules regarding the important contents of present curriculum and most important for extension workers in the present situation to be included in curriculum

The results of Focus Group Discussions and Field Level Workshops (Tables presented at the end of toolkit) conducted with different stakeholders mentioned in the methodology revealed that, communication skills, soft skills, leadership development skills, personal and professional development skills followed by entrepreneurship development skills are more important and needed to perform job effectively at field level extension work (Table 1).

To address the present day problems in agriculture and horticultural sectors and also to equip the graduating and postgraduate agricultural students, the ICAR has been continuously striving to bring necessary reforms for quality enhancement in agricultural education. The Council has appointed National Core Group and BSMA Committee for revision and restructuring of Post graduate and Doctoral syllabi in consultation with all the stakeholders to meet the challenges and harness opportunities in various disciplines of agriculture and allied sciences. It has been felt that a paradigm shift is necessary in academic regulations to comply with various provisions of National Education Policy-2020. The syllabus of Masters’ and Doctoral programs was restructured and new courses were introduced.

The motive behind conducting the workshop on Capacity Need Assessment and Development is that the existing Extension Advisory Services (EAS) needs new capacities to respond effectively to the emerging challenges in agricultural development.

While developing the toolkit for Participatory Curriculum Development participatory approaches like Focus Group Discussions and Field Level Workshops were adopted. The goal is to provide demand-driven services and to do so, extension professionals need to respond for farmers’ requests rather than deliver predetermined packaged solutions. It is also time to enable the farmers to empower and make their voices heard. Equally important is to make the service providers accountable to the farmers, which is possible when the farmers pay for the services they receive.

In the present system of curriculum changes, participation of all the stakeholders are not actively involved in developing curriculum over the years.

Real benefits are obtained when we use a participatory approach to curriculum development and reorientation. Primarily, the course contents we provide and the learning will become more effective. If students participate actively in the learning process, then they are more likely to learn and teaching is more likely to be effective. They will have more ownership in the teaching, because their needs will have been identified and hopefully they will also be involved in deciding how their needs can be met. This will increase their motivation, which will help them to learn more effectively.

To explain the main concepts and elements of a participatory curriculum development process

To present practical skills and knowledge leading to the effective design of teaching and learning

To build confidence of the learners in applying new methods and approaches to teaching and field extension work.

To demonstrate application of participatory approach in development of Extension curriculum

This Toolkit emphasizes an active learning approach, based on the process of experience, reflection and action. The key principle is that people do not learn simply by passive listening. They need to be involved from beginning of the training and designing of the program.

• Content approach

We can identify several different ‘traditional’ approaches to curriculum development. The most common approach until recently is the ‘content’ approach. This is where the curriculum is basically a list of knowledge – things that the agricultural graduating learners need to know. Usually this list is made by a curriculum development committee or group of experts identified at the national level.

As stated before, a careful assessment of the existing curriculum is essential before any modification is undertaken and must take into account the country’s education policy, political, economic, demographic, cultural, social and technological environment. Problems of farmers to be solved, needs to be satisfied, and priorities to be identified and addressed and then only the recommendations made for action.

Curriculum reorientation is necessary, when any one in use is no longer responsive to the needs, interests and unable to meet the demands of the farming community to which it is intended to serve. In any case a number of factors, such as those listed below, must be taken into consideration while reorientation:

There should be an analytical assessment of the existing agricultural extension curriculum in order to justify any proposed reorientation.

Learning needs of the farm university graduates and farmers should be reviewed from the point of view of both individual learner requirements and national development needs.

“Curriculum” is seen often as a critical issue during discussions on quality of agricultural education, being considered variously as content, as product and as process. It is easy to make the assumption that a common understanding of curriculum, but in practice this is far from the case, with a host of definitions, approaches and ideological standpoints. Even though a dialogue on curriculum theory is well established, there is still a strong tendency in practice to understand curriculum as a list of content, often developed in considerable detail, that students should be taught.

Participatory curriculum development (PCD) in extension education is an emerging approach to help and improve the quality of education in farm universities. The main steps of the PCD approach adopted here have high practical utility for the design of formal course contents for the Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses in Agricultural Extension. A great deal of thinking is required while deciding on how much participation will be required from which stakeholders, at what level(s).