Present Outlook and Transformation in the Delivery of Agricultural Extension Services

Abstract

Linkages are channels for the two-way flow of information, knowledge and resources among the stakeholders of a defined system. The key functions that any linkage system should perform include diagnosis, planning and review of programmes; execution of collaborative tasks; exchange/sharing of resources; dissemination of information/knowledge; evaluation, feedback and coordination. Mechanisms such as surveys, meetings, reports, workshops, training, demonstrations and field days, monitoring tours and extension materials are used to sustain linkages. The vision of a transformed agricultural extension service is to empower farmers/farmer-based organizations consciously to select and adopt technologies in an informed way, operate along sound business lines, demand extension services, provide marketing services of inputs and outputs to its members, and play an advocacy role to influence agricultural policy. Similarly, extension workers would be empowered to network, collaborate and facilitate linkages; to facilitate planning by farmers and assessment of demand for services and be eager to upgrade their knowledge and skills and curious to learn new things. The challenges for research–extension–farmer linkages in such a transformed system include an expanded range of stakeholders; managing the process of demand and supply of services; setting and enforcing standards for the quality of services provided; and funding.