The World Bank team has recommended adoption of the e-velanmai (e-Agriculture) project by the State Department of Agriculture. The project, according to those in the know of developments, was not being up-scaled as in the past.

The project was reviewed on May 20.

The project — World Bank – TN – IAMWARM Project, was initiated in 2007 for establishing an effective linkage between scientists and farmers for dissemination of location-specific appropriate technologies in a timely manner.

Experiment

The pilot experiment was done between July 2007 and March 2011 in three sub-basins – Palar, Varaghanadi and Aliyar of Tamil Nadu. Over 1,180 farmers had enrolled for farm-related advice in the initial phase of the project.

Based on the success the World Bank supported up-scaling of the model in 19 irrigation project command areas during 2011-12 and further in 26 sub-basins in 2012-13. The farmer enrolment numbers rose to 4,557 in 2011-12 and to over 12,000 the following year.

The concept was simple. Farmers enrolled as members in the scheme were able to get their farm-related queries resolved by TNAU scientists within hours of putting forth their issue. The field coordinator would visit the spot, and link the farmer with the experts using ICT tools.

Agro advisory services

This ICT-based, demand-driven, participatory extension approach, aimed to provide appropriate and timely agro advisory services to the registered farmers under the scheme.

It was recognised both at the national and international level. Since it combined both – personal and ICT approach, it was possible to offer location specific advice to the farmers, said experts, who were involved in this project.

“Considering the existing extension manpower of the State Department of Agriculture and the ICT usage level of the farmers, we had put forth our suggestion that the project be adopted by the State Department if not up-scaled. The World Bank has recommended adoption by the department,” the source said.

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