A Model for ICT based Services for Agriculture Extension-Phase-II. Second Progress Report.
This project aims to improve livelihoods for farmers through improved reach of extension services
Abstract
This project aims to improve livelihoods for farmers in target states in Pakistan through improved reach and monitoring of extension services to the farming community at a lower cost. This report covers progress in achievement of the following output indicators:
Output 1: A functional MIS for agriculture extension, helpdesk and
mobile applications for use by the farmers and extension providers.
The MIS application, consisting of a web interface and mobile survey
application was completed and the help desk was established.
Output 2: Content developed for the system.
More than 500 FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) on the four target
crops; cotton, rice, wheat and citrus were developed. This content has
been informed by workshops with extension workers, baseline survey and
review of extension advisory materials from the Department of
Agriculture – Punjab.
Output 3: Training and capacity building of extension services.
Training in the use of the MIS application was provided to local
champions from Vehari district. The application will be launched for all
staff in Vehari by the end of 2012.
Output 4: Scale-up and sustainability planning leads to development of a
robust model for adoption of the service in other states/districts.
A series of communication activities were completed and the project was
presented at a seminar ‘What can telecoms do for Agriculture’ arranged
by Pakistan Telecommunications Authority. The project was also presented
at 12th IT and Telecom Exhibition and Conferences, a premier IT and
Telecom event in Pakistan. At both events the project was much
appreciated. The events provided an opportunity to network with other
possible stakeholders and collaborators.
The report also comprises 4 annexes:
- Annex-A Business Analysis V2
- Annex-B User Guide E-Zaraat
- Annex-C FAQs
- Annex-D Baseline Survey Report
Citation
Mahrukh Siraj. A Model for ICT based Services for Agriculture Extension-Phase-II. Second Progress Report. CABI South Asia, Rawalpindi, Pakistan (2012) 269 pp.
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