eChapters

History of human civilization initiated with the struggle against hunger, it flourishes with the fight against poverty and turns oblivious with absence of voices being raised against these two bio-social lethal. If hunger is a pain, poverty is an agony, then, keeping silent against this carcinoma of civilization is no doubt a crime. Is it that poor people are put to an insurmountable silence by the ruthless hegemonies of political economy, or, they are silent, that’s why they remain poor? Silence has been the lethal enzyme in transforming poverty into hunger, and, offers to a socio- chemical bond, poverty-hunger-silence; the bond that remains non-breakable as on date. Economists lament for poverty, nutritionists regret hunger, but the issues of silence and its cohesion to both hunger and poverty has seldom been scholastically delved into or dealt with. We can hope, a desperation of wishful thinking as it may be, shall drench the researchers who think and feel to explore a missing link between hunger and poverty, the silence or the social anemia of voices.

Introduction
A sustainable and effective replacement for conventional soil-based farming, hydroponics technology signifies a paradigm shift in agricultural techniques. Instead of using soil to develop their plants, hydroponic systems submerge their roots in a nutrient-rich water solution or provide it to them on a constant basis. This technique allows for maximum nutrient uptake and faster development by giving plants all the vital elements they require for growth. Hydroponics has many different and extensive uses in horticulture. Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale as well as vine crops like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers are among the many crops that are grown there.
Furthermore, strawberries, herbs, and even decorative plants like flowers grow beautifully in hydroponic systems. One of the key advantages of hydroponics is its ability to maximize resource efficiency. By delivering nutrients directly to the plants’ roots, hydroponic systems minimize nutrient wastage and water consumption compared to traditional soil-based agriculture. Because of this, hydroponics is especially appropriate for areas with limited arable land or water resources. Hydroponics’ adaptability to climate and location is yet another important benefit. No matter the outside weather, hydroponic systems can be installed indoors, in greenhouses, or even in urban settings to allow for yearround growing. This enables farmers to raise crop yields, lengthen growing seasons, and maintain steady levels of quality and output all year round.

6.1. INTRODUCTION

The word hypothesis is made up of two words Hypo + thesis = Hypothesis. ‘Hypo’ means tentative or subject to the verification and ‘Thesis’ means statement about solution of a problem.

The world meaning of the term hypothesis is a tentative statement about the solution of the problem. Hypothesis offers a solution of the problem that is to be verified empirically and based on some rationale. Hypothesis is the composition of some variables which have some specific position or role of the variables i.e. to be verified empirically. It is a proposition about the factual and conceptual elements. Hypothesis is called a leap into the dark. It is a brilliant guess about the solution of a problem. A tentative generalization or theory formulated about the character of phenomena under observation are called hypothesis. It is a statement temporarily accepted as true in the light of what is known at the time about the phenomena. It is the basis for planning and action in the research for new truth.

Abstract

Information and communications technology (ICT) is an extended term for information technology (IT) which stresses the role of unified communications and the integration of telecommunications (telephone lines and wireless signals), computers as well as necessary enterprise software, middleware, storage, and audio-visual systems, which enable users to access, store, transmit, and manipulate information.

The term ICT is also used to refer to the convergence of audio-visual and telephone networks with computer networks through a single cabling or link system. There are large CoymeBoang incentives (huge cost savings due to elimination of the telephone network) to merge the telephone network with the computer network system using a single unified system of cabling, signal distribution and management.

However, ICT has no universal definition, as “the concepts, methods and applications involved in ICT are constantly evolving on an almost daily basis.” The broadness of ICT covers any product that will store, retrieve, manipulate, transmit or receive information electronically in a digital form, e.g. personal computers, digital television, email, robots. For clarity, Zuppo provided an ICT hierarchy where all levels of the hierarchy “contain some degree of commonality in that they are related to technologies that facilitate the transfer of information and various types of electronically mediated communications.” Skills Framework for the Information Age is one of many models for describing and managing competencies for ICT professionals for the 21st century.

Keywords: ICT Tools, Gadgets, Software, Apps, Networking Technologies.

Illuminative evaluation: The primary concern of illuminative or holistic evaluation is a description and interpretation rather than measurement and prediction of the totality of a phenomenon. It fits with the social–anthropological paradigm. The aim is to study a programme in all its aspects: how it operates, how it is influenced by various contexts, how it is applied, how those directly involved view its strengths and weaknesses, and what the experiences are of those who are affected by it.

9.1 Introduction

The objective of this chapter is to design an icloud and cayenne based perimeter monitoring system for agricultural field. Mobile app is designed to monitor the sensory data. The complete system comprises of two sections field device and mobile app. Field device comprises of NodeMCU, battery, motion sensors and laser sensors. The system is designed to monitor the agriculture field perimeter with motion and laser sensors, which are deployed at different locations of field. The sensory data is transmitted through NodeMCU and received at mobile app which can be accessed by authorized person. The same data can be accessed on webserver from anywhere in the world. Fig.9.1 shows a block diagram for a system. Table.9.1 shows the component list.

Introduction

ICT may be defined as technologies that facilitate communication and the processing and transmission of information by electronic means. ICT is an acronym that stands for Information Communications Technology and refers to technologies that facilitate communication and the processing of information by electronic means and includes everything from radio and television to telephones (fixed and mobile), computers and the internet. Information and communication has become an increasingly powerful tool for improving the delivery of basic services and enhancing local development opportunities. Recent years have seen increases in the use of ICT in almost all spheres of rural life. Especially, the rural communities require information among others on supply of inputs, innovations, improved technologies, credit, market prices and competitors. Since the concepts, methods and applications involved in ICT are constantly evolving on an almost daily basis. It’s difficult to keep up with the changes - they happen so fast.

Introduction

E-publishing and information accessing have become easy and convenient mainly because of Internet and the World Wide Web technologies. Most digital libraries were developed in the past by taking up projects based on specific disciplines and then developed into full-fledged digital libraries. The inter-networking communication links, low cost storage solutions, powerful desktops, workstations, servers and multimedia hardware and software technologies are now available for initiating the Digital Library projects in India. Development in ICT (Information Communication technology) have brought about the merger of the computing, information, Communication, entertainment, mass media industries thereby providing a means of exchanging information in the digital format used by computers.

ABSTRACT

The Cellular technology (mobile phone) is becoming popular day by day with companies up with low price handsets and nearly one-fourth of the India’s population possess a mobile phone even in the rural areas. The Indian government has set a target of 500 million users by 2010; half of this, 250 million, has reached till 2007 (IANS). Keeping in view the scenario, messaging agricultural information through computers to the end users on mobile phone is a means, which will go a long way for the farmers to receive timely information. There are different media platforms through which farmer’s access information in India. This includes radios, television, print, person to person and so many others. However, with the rapid growth in technology, there is a strong belief that there is a need to extend the mobile phones’ use to agriculture sector.

1. Introduction

Democratisation of information makes it possible for ideas, opinions, knowledge and services to be accessible to everyone, anywhere, anytime. In this era of ‘knowledge sharing’, making access to the required information and knowledge is the key to innovation and empowerment of farming community. Rapid technological developments over the years, particularly internet and mobile, have made it possible to provide array of services on a single platform due to convergence. It is a unique opportunity to leverage upon the available ICT infrastructures and deliver the knowledge based services effectively to people. There are number of ICT initiatives being attempted in the field of Agriculture and other sectors. Some of the successful models (web-based and mobile based) have shown way for the future of e-extension in India.

ABSTRACT

As population explosion continues and the shortage of extension personnel becomes acute, the wisest proposition is to utilize the latest information and communication technology (ICT) to make information available to the common man. The ICT  tools with their recent advancements have become easily available in various forms such a mobile telephone, PDA, WLL phones, FM radio, community radio, television, wireless internet services, webcams, video conferencing facilities etc. Extension agencies need to harness the ICT tools usefully and improve the quality of extension services.

INTRODUCTION

Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) also known as Agricultural Science Centres are the integral component of the National Agricultural Research System, which aims for development and promotion of location specific technology modules in agriculture and its allied enterprises, through Technology Assessment, Refinement and Demonstrations. At present there are 585 KVKs in the country grouped under eight zones and 77 in Zone VIII comprising of Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Goa, Puducherry and Lakshdweep.

The major mandate of the KVKs includes Technology Assessment and Refinement through on Farm testing, popularization of technologies through Frontline Demonstrations to prove their production potentials in the farmers’ field. Conducting skill oriented training programmes to farmers and farm women, rural youths and extension personnel mostly focussing the technologies assessed/refined or demonstrated, conducting vocational training programmes for rural youth, popularization of technologies through various extension programmes so as to reach the masses, production and supply of good quality seeds, planting materials and other bio-products to the farming community.

ABSTRACT

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is the driving force for the fundamental economic and social revolution. It accelerates globalization, makes access to knowledge and information much easier for the people in respect of creation of technologies, diffusion of old innovation and diffusion of human skills for rural prosperity. The National Conference on Informatics for Sustainable Agriculture Development (ISDA) organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and National Informatics Centre (NIC), in May 1995, has given much needed “roadmap” to usher in “ICT led agriculture development” in the country.

Introduction

In today’s world, the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) have become more common and part and part of human life. It plays many roles for a country’s overall growth and economic development. Among all developing countries, the presence of ICT is greatly felt in India. People here use ICT devices mainly to access and share data information available around the world from any part of the country and at any time with just one click. In the last fifteen years, India’s economic growth has been remarkable in trade and commerce, communication technologies, education, transportation, agriculture and administration mainly due to development of advanced software and service based applications. India stands as a role model for many other countries in framing ICT based policies and implementing independent strategies for global contracts (Carmel 2003; Heeks and Nicholson 2004). Since, its significance is highly realised by the Government, bureaucrats and policy makers’ efforts are now being carried out to utilize ICT tools for improving the lives of the Indian rural maases and people below poverty line.

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

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

ABSTRACT

ICT innovations are bringing new information services to rural areas on which, farmers, as users, will have much greater control than ever over current information channels. A greater opportunity to access the services of ICT innovations is crucial requirement for the sustainable development of the farming system, which is the demand of the time. ICT when applied to the rural and agricultural conditions can improve the linkages between research and farmer sub-systems. The variety of new ICT tools for agriculture is impressive, but the tools need to be placed in an overall context of agricultural information and service needs. By looking at the critical information needs of agriculture and farming communities, the focus should be on applicable and relevant ICT tools for the specific purpose to serve the rural community without compromising with their individual applications towards understanding of their overall role in promoting productive, equitable, and sustainable agriculture. Extension workers well equipped with the ICT can prove more efficient in gathering, storage, retrieving, adaptation and dissemination of broad range of information needed by farmers, thus transforming them from extension workers into knowledge workers. Emergence of such knowledge workers will result in the realisation of the much talked about bottom-up, demand driven technology generation, assessment, refinement and transfer.

ABSTRACT

This study addresses the many ICT-based services provided to readers as well as access to E-resources by Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith, University users. It raises awareness of technology in libraries and why it is important to comprehend the usage of ICT in libraries in order to provide better library services and information to users. Essentially, the article describes several technologies and their applications in library operations. The study has discussed how library services are spurred by the use of technology such as OPAC, E-ShodhSindhu, E- books and E-journals, and so on. The current study examines several library activities that make use of ICTs. The goal of this paper is to demonstrate the use of various ICTs and E-resources by user of the university for rapid and easy information retrieval.

Like many other developing countries, agriculture is the primary occupation of the rural people of North East India. They depend on farming but because of the nature of practices followed, it hardly goes beyond subsistence and so agricultural extension is an important thing in their lives. But in this particular part of the country basically because of the topography which makes it difficult to reach the clusters of villages deep in the hills, forests and valleys, it becomes more and more important to use technologies that reach them like mobile phones, TV and radio. Agricultural information is not something that is needed 24X7 round the year but require on the critical times of the year like before sowing seasons advisories, forecasting diseases and pests when the crop is standing in the field and during harvesting.

ABSTRACT
 
The term rural development also represents improvement in quality of life of rural people in villages. As per Chambers (1983) “Rural Development is a strategy to enable a specific group of people, poor rural women and men, to gain for themselves and their children more of what they want and need.”  ICT is an integral part of development strategies of both developing and developed countries. It has great potential to bring in the desired social transformations by enhancing access to people, services, information and other technologies (Dutton et al., 2004). ICT applications can enhance poor people’s opportunities by improving their access to markets, health and education. Furthermore, ICT can empower the poor by expanding the use of government services and reduce risks by widening access to micro finance (Cecchini and Scott, 2003). The uses of ICT for development are actively promoted for economic development, job-creation, rural development and poverty-alleviation. The term ‘ICTs’ can be interpreted as including a wide range of media, ‘new ICTs’ is used to denote “the use of computers and communication systems between computers” (CTA 1999:4).

This practical assignment is conceptualized in a way that students will gain a deeper understanding of the rural situation and can prioritize the rural needs which will eventually help in achieving overall development of the rural people.

PURPOSE

To gain a deeper understanding of the rural situation.

To encourage students to analyze the needs of the rural people on priority basis and thereby helping in planning effectively for rural development.

To acquaint the students with the areas that needs to be more strengthened in case of achieving overall development of the rural people.

This practical assignment deals with identification of emerging enterprises in agricultural sector and helps students in identifying the emerging enterprises suitable for the study area on the basis of the situational analysis.

PURPOSE

 To provide a comprehensive idea about different enterprises.

 To acquaint the students with different factors which are essential for identifying emerging enterprises in agricultural sector.

This assignment is associated with the identification and recognition of different characteristics and features related to entrepreneurship development within the individual.

PURPOSE

 To make students acquainted with the characteristics favorable for entrepreneurial activity of people.

 To help the students develop their skill in identifying the entrepreneurial traits one can have within him/her.

This assignment focuses on various methods in identifying the rural or local leaders in the social system and helps the students in case of identifying the specialized roles of extension workers at grassroot level.

PURPOSE

To identify rural leaders for collecting information about the village.

To assess the role of rural leaders in transferring new technology to the villagers through rural leader.

1.0. Objectives

• To illustrate the importance of using idioms in colloquial language
• To point out how idioms amplify the meaning of pieces of mind
• To make out how one can skip from a direct projection of ideas with the help of idioms
• To provide the knowledge of some significant idioms

2.0 Idiom

An idiom is an expression or articulation that generally presents an allegorical, different from its literal meaning appended to the phrases; however, a few phrases become metaphorical sayings while holding the strict importance of the literal expression. Sorted as predictable language, an idiom’s meaning is not quite the same as the imparting meaning. An idiom is an essential part of any language which shows the originality of language and its expression.

9.1 Plastering Storage area with Lime and Sand: The storage areas, known as Hagevu, are plastered with a mixture of lime and sand. These areas can store 20-30 bags of grain (Heggere and Chitradurga, Karnataka). Nagarathna (2000).

9.2 Indoor Bamboo or Reed Structure for Grain Storage: Indoor storage structures are typically made of bamboo. In regions where bamboo is scarce, farmers use locally available reeds. These structures are cost-effective since they utilize local materials and knowledge, but they do not protect grains from rodents and insects, have a short lifespan, are susceptible to fire, and require frequent maintenance (Andhra Pradesh and Orissa). Navanitha Raju (1999).

9.3 Storage of Onion Bulbs on Bamboo Platform: Onion bulbs can be stored for up to a year on a platform made of loosely woven bamboo strips, raised 2-3 feet above the ground to allow air circulation. The bulbs are piled 2-3 feet high and protected from sun and rain with a cover (Junagadh, Gujarat). Babulbhai (1993).

9.4 Method of Storage of Food Grains in Khanti: A 'Khanti' is constructed in areas with low underground water levels, where a 15-foot deep Khanti can be made. It has a sloping shape with a base 10-15 meters wide and a top one foot wide. A one-foot thick layer of husk mixed with neem is spread at the bottom and sides for pest protection. Different grains can be stored by separating them with layers of husk and large leaves. A Khanti can store 10-15 tonnes of grains from May to November (Maharashtra). Singh (1999).

9.5 Storage of Potato Tubers: Farmers in Hoskote village, Karnataka, store potato tubers in the field on an elevated, hardened soil area of 25 × 4 square feet, supported by 12 stone pillars. A thatched roof provides shade, and a bed of local grass and sugarcane leaves is spread on the floor. Harvested tubers are layered on this bed, with additional layers of leaves on top. The storage is checked for pests every 2-3 weeks. Calotropis gigantea leaves and branches are used around the heap to prevent rodent attacks. This method keeps potatoes cool even in hot conditions (Bangalore, Karnataka). Hannganahalli (1999).

10.1 Multiple transplanting for increasing papaya yield: Papaya seedlings are uprooted and transplanted at a different spot, then uprooted again and planted back at the same spot after fifteen days. This decreases the plant's height and enhances its productive phase (Banaskantha, Gujarat). Kodarbhai (1999).

10.2 Reducing mango flower drop by applying buttermilk and salt: To prevent mango flowers from dropping due to wind and disease, farmers dig a circular trench around the tree trunk during flowering, mix 60-80 liters of buttermilk with 2 kg of salt, and pour it into the trench. After absorption, fresh water is added, and the practice is repeated (Banaskantha, Gujarat). Dudhaji (1997).

10.3 Enhancing fruit set in papaya by inserting a nail in the stem: To induce fruiting in trees that flower but do not bear fruit, farmers insert nails (iron or wooden, 1-2 cm in diameter) into the stem about a foot high (Amreli, Gujarat). Sheldiya (1992).

10.4 Increasing yield of vegetables and fruits by using hair: Waste hair is collected and applied to vegetable, fruit, and ornamental crops. Hair is buried around plants in pits (1/2 kg for ornamental plants, 1 kg for fruit trees) one month after planting and 45 days before fruiting. For vegetables like tomato and brinjal, hair is dispersed during the last ploughing (Tamil Nadu). Subbiah (1998).

10.5 Lemon juice for higher lemon productivity: Farmers increase lemon productivity by spraying a solution of 100 ml lemon juice dissolved in 2 liters of water on lemon trees, ensuring all leaves are wet (Rajkot, Gujarat). Pethan (1997a).

IKS stands for Indigenous Knowledge Systems. When applied to pest and disease management in agriculture, IKS refers to the traditional and local knowledge systems developed by communities over generations to deal with agricultural challenges, including pests and diseases.

5.1 Key Aspects of IKS for Pest and Disease Management

1. Traditional Practices: Indigenous communities often have developed practices based on observation and experience to control pests and diseases. These may include specific plant combinations, crop rotations, or timing of planting to minimize pest damage.

2. Natural Remedies: IKS often includes knowledge of natural substances and plants that have pesticidal or medicinal properties. Examples include the use of neem, garlic, chilli, or certain plant extracts to deter pests or control diseases.

3. Cultural Practices: Traditional farming practices may include rituals or timing of activities that are believed to influence pest and disease outbreaks. For instance, planting during specific lunar phases or following certain cultural calendars.

4. Biological Control: Indigenous knowledge may also involve the use of natural enemies of pests, such as predators or parasites, to manage pest populations. This aligns with modern biological control principles.

5. Crop Diversity: Traditional farming systems often promote crop diversity, which can help naturally manage pest and disease pressures by reducing monoculture effects and providing habitats for beneficial organisms.

Seed treatment refers to the application of chemical or biological substances to seeds before planting. This process is designed to protect seeds from diseases, pests, and other adverse conditions that may affect germination and early growth and can improve overall crop yield and quality. Seed treatment can involve the use of fungicides, insecticides, bactericides, and other agents that help improve seed health and vigor. Seed treatment is a crucial step in ensuring healthy crop production. By investing in seed treatment, farmers can achieve better crop establishment and reduce the need for subsequent interventions, leading to more sustainable and cost-effective agricultural practices.

4.1 Importance of Seed Treatment

1. Disease Control: Seed treatment helps to protect seeds and seedlings from soil-borne and seed-borne pathogens, reducing the risk of diseases that can impair seed germination and seedling growth.

2. Pest Protection: Treated seeds are less likely to be damaged by insects and other pests that may be present in the soil. This protection can lead to higher seed survival rates and better crop establishment.

3. Improved Germination: By reducing the incidence of diseases and pests, seed treatment can enhance the germination rate and uniformity of seedlings, leading to more robust and consistent crop stands.

4. Nutrient Provision: Some seed treatments include nutrients or growth promoters that help improve seedling vigor and early development, ensuring that young plants have a better start.

5. Resistance to Environmental Stress: Seed treatments can help seeds withstand adverse environmental conditions such as drought, salinity, and temperature fluctuations, improving the overall resilience of the crop.

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

Indicators for Impact Assessment-meaning and Concept

Indicators for impact assessment: Indicators are common tools to determine the performance and then the result of the technology/extension/communication interventions. They measure the accomplishment of the project’s goals and targets. Criteria of indicators should be defined during the formulation stage, but they often need to be specified in greater detail during implementation. The indicators should measure intangible and non-tangible changes, particularly in projects that value factors such as personal and social development.

Indicators for impact assessment
Meaning and concept of Indicator
The term indicator is often used interchangeably with data, targets, standards for evaluation, and even various modes of data collection, which undoubtedly inhibits a productive dialog on the subject. Such confusion is unwarranted, since the term has a precise connotation- in the literature on monitoring and evaluation of development. Simply stated, indicators are variables designed to measure change in a given phenomenon or process. They are analytical tools which facilitate the measurement of change and provide summary data for project design, implementation, and evaluation. Indicators are defined as
“specific (explicit) and objectively verifiable measures of changes or results produced by an activity or intervention” (United Nations: 1985; p. 37). A few observations about indicators can be useful in further clarifying their nature. First, as the above definition implies, indicators provide quantitative data which can be analyzed using statistical techniques to produce estimates of a phenomenon. In cases when only qualitative information is gathered, it should be converted into numerical data for the purposes of analysis and presentation. Second, an indicator can capture one or more dimensions of a phenomenon or process depending upon the purpose of the study. We can, for example, construct an indicator for urbanization based on a wide range of variables such as number of school, higher educational institution, road connectivity, number of financial institution, health infrastructure, income etc. On the other hand, one can use each of the above items as a distinct indicator. Indicators focusing on different dimensions of a subject are difficult and more costly to construct. Third, several indicators can be used to capture the same phenomenon.

Introduction

Developments in both hardware and software sectors of computer science raised high expectations and strong vision to solve number of problems in all sectors of economy. Introduction of personal computers (PC) in 1970’s created vision of paperless offices, simplified computing, automated process control, management information system, expert system etc. Initially, it had greater impact on agricultural research and development in developed countries in the form of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). Growth of companies with promises to provide specialist software to farmers and growers during 1980’s is a clear indicator of the high expectation and visualization of ICT in the field agricultural research and development. A review of agricultural software availability and use has been made by an international team in 1997 called FARMSOFT. This review covered on eight countries viz. Belgium, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Portugal, Spain and The Netherlands. It was found that in 1996 out of 1315 software related to agriculture, 39% were in category of management, 26% were in category of animal husbandry, 8.9% in category of crop production, 7.0% in category of machinery and process control, 0.1% in category of irrigation and 19% in others category. Comparison of change in software inventory in 1996 with respect to 1994 revealed that there is around 15% growth in the agricultural software development. The higher positive growth was in the category of management software (38.40%) followed by animal husbandry (10.45%) and others (10.44%). However, highest negative growth was observed in the category of irrigation (-163.15%) followed by crop production (-53.85%) and machinery and process control (-30.95%). This indicates that overall agricultural software inventory was growing but while growth in the software related to agricultural management was sufficiently high, there was sharp decline in categories of irrigation and crop production. This change in pattern may be attributed to saturation of software and bottlenecks due to limitation of related technological innovations, socio-economic adoption and infrastructural facilities.

Introduction

Land and water are important natural resources available for agriculture crop production. The resource is available either for agriculture or for human / animal consumption, from precipitation in the form of rain. According to National Commission of Agriculture, half of the available land in India will continue to depend on dry land even after our total surface and ground water potentials are fully exploited by 2025 A.D. So far efforts were made in improving the irrigation potential to step up crop production and very little attention has been paid to dry lands. Considerably improved but the farmers in dry land areas are still suffering.

Introduction

The process of agricultural modernization has produced three distinct types of agriculture. These are industrialized, green revolution and low-external input and unimproved (Chambers et al. 1989) . The industrialized and the green revolution agriculture have been able to respond to the technological package, producing high input, high output systems of agriculture. Most agricultural systems in the industrialized countries count as high external input systems save for the relatively small number of organic farmers (Pretty 1995) . In the countries of the Third World, high-external input systems are found in the large irrigated plains and deltas of South, Southeast and East Asia, and parts of Latin America and North America, but also in patches in other regions. In the industrialized countries farmers modernized by introducing machinery, replacing labour, specializing operations and changing practices to ensure greater production. In the green revolution areas the success lay in agricultural scientists breeding new varieties of stable cereals that matured quickly, and use of inorganic fertilizers, pesticides, machinery, credit and water regulation.

Climate change is a complex problem involving varied interactions between the environment, natural resources (land, crops, animals and water) and people. These interactions are likely to change the ecological and agricultural landscape, and therefore influence agricultural and animal production. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has dictated that global warming/climate change could lead to many environmental problems i.e., Drought, floods, crop and animal farming, food production, and health hazards etc. Agriculture is closely dependent on the endowment of natural resources and environmental conditions of soil and climate. India is divided into many agro—climatic zones depending upon rainfall, agriculture and soil fertility. The agro climatic conditions of India and the various other factors that largely determine the cropping patterns vary throughout the country. Warangal district falls into two agro climatic regions namely Southern Telangana Zone and North Telangana Zone.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted agribusiness communications, creating unprecedented challenges and opportunities for the sector. With restrictions on transportation, shortage of labor, and changes in consumer behavior, agribusinesses have had to adapt their communication strategies to remain operational and retain consumer trust. The objective of this chapter is to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on agribusiness communication and suggest effective communication strategies to overcome the challenges posed by this and similar crisis which might arise in the future.

Introduction

With the advent of modern agricultural technology, especially during the period of the Green Revolution in the late sixties and early seventies, there was a continuous surge for diversified agriculture, primarily on economic considerations. The changes in cropping pattern, however, are the outcome of interactive effect of many factors which can be broadly categorized into the following five groups-

Resource related factors like irrigation, rainfall and soil fertility.

Technology related factors viz. seed, fertilizer, and water technologies on one hand and marketing, storage and processing on the other.

Household related factors like food and fodder requirement as well as investment capacity of the farmers.

Price related factors covering input and output prices and economic policies that affect these prices.

Institutional and infrastructure related factors pertaining to farm size and tenancy arrangements, research, extension and marketing systems and government regulatory policies.

Introduction

India’s change in the economic environment and market-oriented economic reforms can be traced back to the 1990s which led to the growth of the country. There was a clear evident change from the condition it was in the 1970s when it was far behind the other Asian countries. The economic reforms brought by LPG (Liberalisation, Privatisation and Globalisation) model have affected not only international trade but also led to an increase in the competitiveness of the industries. But what triggered these economic reforms? Before 1990, India was in a severe economic crisis condition due to repeated policy failures. India was experiencing a huge fiscal and balance of payment deficit, a high inflation rate and a fall in foreign exchange reserves. This led to the sickening of the public sector units whose prime role was to bring a reduction in inequality and poverty. The self-reliance condition in India was not of much help as there was insignificant trade with the rest of the world. The crisis mainly depicted the mismanagement of the resources. In light of this, this chapter discusses the impact of the economic reforms on agri-enterprises.

Introduction

The advancements in the field of informatics, biology and allied fields of technology led to the emergence of an inter-disciplinary field known as ‘Bioinformatics’ (Kumar 2006, Madhan Mohan 2006). Explosion of knowledge in the field of biology and generation of new information (data) needs collection, storage, organization, integration, analysis, simulation of biological data and a faster distribution among the scientific workers (Mehrotra et al. 2005). The advent of super computers, high speed computing and development of algorithms for data formatting, assists in the storage of data at the site of origin and distributed through the hyperlinks in world wide web (www).

The vast field of Bioinformatics is beyond the scope of this article. However to elucidate the concepts that led to the the development of Bioinformatics vis-à-vis is given in brief before explaining the new and emerging area of ‘fluxomics’.

Introduction

Technological advances of the past two decades have profoundly reshaped and enhanced all aspects of medical research and practice. Concepts, methodologies, tools, and applications of medical informatics with the latest technique and approaches are essential for every one pursuing in the medical IT field. Improvements in healthcare delivery in recent years are rooted in the continued industry-wide investment in information technology and the expanding role of medical informatics. The main goal of this chapter is to collate and provide innovative and creative ideas so far published on healthcare in one article for use by the researchers, practitioners and other related with health care system for improving communication environments in health and to explore all new technologies in medical informatics and health care delivery systems.

Medical Informatics can be defined as a discipline concerned with all aspects of understanding and promoting the effective organization, analysis, management, and use of information in health care (American Medical Informatics Association, 2007). In recent years, medical informatics has become a well-recognized branch of medicine.

SYNOPSIS

After the break-up of the Soviet Union in 1992, the countries of Central Asia and the Caucasus (CAC) began making the transition from controlled to market economies. All of the countries have programs for economic and social development as well as food security. Over the last decade, the regional population increased 11%, from 72 million in 2002 to 79 million in 2012. Agricultural production has increased throughout the region. For example, vegetable production per decade has nearly doubled due to an increase in the area of the crops grown and to increased yields, and was more than 19 million t in 2011.

1. Introduction

The Indian government’s New Education policy (NEP 2020) is apositive improvement in this covid-19 scourge. The main NEP for India happened in 1968, trailed by NEPs in 1986 and 2020 under Narendra Modi. India passed the NEP 2020 on July 29, 2020. It tries to reform education and make the countrymoretaught. K Kasturirangan, the previousheadofISRO, led- the NEP 2020 arrangement council. The decision Government of India vowed to modernise Indian schooling in it selection pronouncement (Saha Mushkan, 2020). Educationassumes a fundamental part in building a country; it chooses the nation’s future and its kin’s fate. The effect will be sturdy concerning the development and advancement of the stateandsubject. In this day and age, schooling is urgent. Pre-freedom and post-autonomy periods show the extension and progress Indian Government. It will alter the way India studies; this is the third correction to the instruction strategy. National education policy 2020 plans changes for all gatherings (Kalyani Pawan, 2020).

Rice is a staple food for millions of people in the world, particularly in developing countries like India. The demand for rice is growing with ever increasing population. In India more than 70 per cent of the ground and surface water is being used for Agriculture and out of this 70 per cent is allocated to rice cultivation. Each kg of rice produced with irrigation requires 3000- 5000 litres of water (Anonymous, 2011). The demand of rice in India is increasing with increase in population and is expected to be 140 m.t. by 2025 (Pandey et al., 2008).

Farmer Field School (FFS) is a capacity building method based on adult education principles for group of farmers. FFS is best described as a ‘school without walls’, where farmers learn through observation and experimentation in their own fields. FFS methodology is potential extension approach to enhance farmer’s knowledge which is a basis for adoption of improved practices (Manoj and Vijayaragavan, 2014). In Andhra Pradesh Department of Agriculture initiated FFS programme in the name of Polambadi during 2006.

Introduction

In India, the marginal, small and semi-medium land holding constitutes more than 90% of the land holdings in the country. They are caught in a vicious cycle of low investment, low productivity and low income with little chance to get out of it. In general, majority of farm families possess limited and scattered land holding with a low productivity and they have very limited accessibility to the improved agricultural information because of their illiteracy and lack of participation in extension programmes. The development of entrepreneurship in subsidiary activity like vermicompost production and Dairying will definitely help the small and marginal farmwomen to increase the farm income. The entrepreneurship among farmwomen in vermi composting and dairying will definitely encourage them to start self employment in addition to the agricultural income. Farmwomen perform -multifaceted role in various fields such as production, processing and marketing. In spite of their significant contribution to production they have virtually remained invisible as farmers, home makers and the ultimate by protecting the whole family. Their role has become critical in the process of moving their family out of the vicious ‘circle of poverty’ Nataraju and Perumal, (1990). Farmwomen generally have lower income and less leisure time than men and seldom have equal opportunities to develop their capabilities. Farmwomen have been considered unorganized and inferior to men, Lelamma (2001).

In a country like India where the economy is dominant by agriculture and its allied sectors, nearly 75% of women are engaged in agriculture in comparison with their male counterparts. Among rural female workers, 50% comprises of agricultural laborer and 37% are cultivators. Not only this, around 70% of total farm work is performed by women folk. Majority of agricultural works are done by women farmers (FAO, 2011) and thus empowering them will have far-reaching effect on agricultural development. They usually operate multiple livelihood f ields, including farming, animal husbandry, and marketing along with doing the household chores and are closely involved in social issues. Among these activities when we look specifically into the agricultural tasks, it is very clear that approximately 70–80% of women are participating in all agriculture activities from raising seedlings, weeding, harvesting and, processing and value addition activities and sometimes their involvement extends to marketing their product. To compete in this fast-growing industry with others, the rural women need to be up-to-date with new technologies to foster the reach of innovations to the farm women. Training is one of the most important means by which farmers and rural women can upgrade their professional and technical skillset. This is an essential component in the area of agriculture where technology is changing day by day and the knowledge of the farming community including women needs to be upgraded at a comparatively quicker pace.

Introduction

On 26^th December 2004, out of the 7516 km long coastline of India, more than 4500 km stretch was badly affected by the 9.0 magnitude earthquake- triggered tsunami, resulting in the total destruction of living environment along the coast. The worst affected areas along the Indian coast were in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh states. Tamil Nadu state suffered maximum loss with the damage concentrated in 4 districts.

It was reported that due to 26 December, 2004 Tsunami in Tamil Nadu state, 8.96 lakh people were affected, 376 villages had heavy damage, 7951 human lives lost, 1000 KM coastal length is affected, the sea water penetrated 1-1.5 KM distance into the main land, 128394 dwelling units affected, 9559 cattle lost, 10245 ha cropped area affected, 42655 boats damaged. (GOI, Ministry of Home Affairs, 09.01.2005). Many felt that impact will be very serious and it will take years to resume normal activities in the region. This paper presents an analytical study of the impact of tsunami on agricultural production, household income of the farm households on a continuous basis from 2005 to 2008.

1. Introduction

No doubt Village library is a part of public library. Village library plays an important role for creation knowledge in different field. As we know that maximum people in the village area not aware about their right, even they not know reading and writing. so the rate of literacy is poor. Therefore it can be mentioned that the illiteracy is the main barrier for their development and it will harm their day to day life. Many people in the villages is involve themselves in farming. Agriculture is the main of earning sources. Villagers do not have adequate knowledge in farming and fertilizer that they used for better result even they not know the bad affect of fertilizer that they used. Their life style is not hygienic because of illiteracy.

Web-education Technology

“Educating the people through web” this process is called web-education. The World Wide Web provides new opportunities and hopeful future for distance education over the Internet and the distance education is becoming a widespread used for quite a long time through Newspapers, Radio and TV. Now-a-days mostly the World Wide Web (WWW) getting vital role in distance education, e-learning and distance learning since the networking technologies are emerging very rapidly in the media dominant era. The connectivity of the internet to different kind of people around the world is increasing steadily, like TV and Radio. The World Wide Web and other Internet–based collaborative modern communication technology tools have significantly enhanced the ability to train and educate people electronically.