Role of information and communication technology in rural livelihood development with special reference to agro sector Dr. Yadav Richa*, Pareek Rakhi** *Assistant Professor and TPO, Govt. Engineering College, Bikaner **Assistant Professor, Govt. Engineering College, Bikaner Online published on 7 September, 2012. Abstract In India more than sixty percent of the population is still dependent on agriculture thus making agriculture an important sector with the majority of the rural population depending on it. The sector faces major challenges of enhancing production in a situation of declining natural resources which are necessary for production. As the demand is growing for agricultural products which in result offers opportunities for the farmers to sustain and improve their livelihoods. Information and communication technologies (ICT) and knowledge sharing plays an important role in encompassing these challenges and uplifting the livelihoods of the rural people specially farmers. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) if adapted as per suitability will help in improving the livelihoods of poor individuals, families and communities in rural areas and increase their income opportunities. This in result will help in improving their chances of escaping from persistent poverty. The Knowledge sharing practices helps to understand what the farmers know, both from research and from experience in the field. In addition, it provides recommendations on the use and role of ICT in enhancing the livelihoods of the rural poor. This article seeks the prospective contribution of ICT to the livelihoods of farmers and the efficiency of the agricultural sector. And will also find out some of the ways in which we work with farmers to generate and share local information using knowledge sharing tools. “Information to be used as a part of social action has to be reliable and relevant, also timely. Access to correct and relevant (and timely) information makes emancipatory and participatory action possible. Such information has a capacity to empower. It is knowledge.” (David and Foray) Top |