Agricultural Knowledge &

Information System (AKIS)

- EXT. 501 – Extension Landscape

- JOBANPREET SINGH
@[email protected]

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 AKIS :
Agricultural Knowledge and Information System
DEFINITION: Agricultural Knowledge and Information Systems (AKIS) is the
combined organisation and interactions between persons, organisations and institutions
that produce and use knowledge for agriculture, forestry, rural development, and other
related areas.
More Clearly, AKIS links people and institutions to promote mutual learning, generate
share and utilize agriculture-related technology, knowledge and information.
•These are designed to collect, process, and disseminate information related to
agriculture and rural development
•These systems typically involve a variety of stakeholders, including farmers, extension
workers, researchers, policymakers, and other members of the agriculture community.

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 CONCEPT OF AKIS
• AKIS addresses a wide range of issues, including food security, rural poverty, environment
sustainability, sustainable management of natural resources.
• It can take many forms like extension services, research institutions, farmer organizations where
the flow of knowledge and innovation can facilitate.
• It can be supported by different ICT tools like radio, television, mobile phone etc.
• AKIS respond to technology, knowledge and information needs of farmers helping them in
decision making and manage their farms.

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 Key Components of AKIS
There are Four main key Components of Agriculture Knowledge and Information System:

1. KNOWLEDGE 2. KNOWLEDGE 3. KNOWLEDGE 4. INFORMATION

PRODUCERS: DISSEMINATORS: USERS: TECHNOLOGIES:

RESEARCH INSTITUTIONS FARMERS AND

EXTENSION SERVICES
(Universities, Agricultural Research AGRICULTURAL WORKERS DIGITAL PLATFORMS
Centers) (Websites, Mobile Apps)

AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVES
AGRIBUSINESSES
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
SOCIAL MEDIA AND
NGOs AND COMMUNITY ONLINE FORUMS
ORGANIZATIONS POLICY-MAKERS
NGOS AND INTERNATIONAL
ORGANIZATIONS

RADIO AND TELEVISION

PROGRAMS DEDICATED
TO AGRICULTURE

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 KNOWLEDGE
PRODUCERS

AGRICULTURAL
PRODUCERS
(FARMERS)

INFORMATION
KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER
DISSSEMINATORS
TECHNOLOGIES

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 Functions of AKIS
Agricultural Knowledge & Information System has various usefull functions such as:
• Information Sharing: Facilitates access to the latest agricultural research, techniques, and best
practices.
• Generating Awareness: It helps to induce Awareness about the latest methods & practices in the field
of Agriculture among Farmers.
• Fostering Productivity: Awared farmers and knowledge users becomes capable to increase the
productivity of Agriculture and allied sectors.
• Capacity Building: Provides training and workshops to improve the skills and knowledge of farmers
and extension workers.
• Networking: Connects different stakeholders to foster collaboration and partnerships.
• Feedback Mechanism: Collects input from farmers and other users to improve research and extension
services to facilitate the Sustainable Development.

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 INNOVATION SYSTEM
• The term ―Innovation system" was first coined by economist Christopher Freeman in the
1980s.
• Innovation system are often characterized by actors, linkages, institutions, resources and output.
• It highlights the importance of fostering collaboration and interaction between different
actors and institutions in order to promote innovation and drive economic and social
development.

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 THEN THE QUESTION IS

WHAT IS AIS
(AGRICULTURAL
INNOVATION SYSTEM)
……..?
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 AIS: Agricultural Innovation System
DEFINITION:
An agricultural innovation system is a set of institutions, policies, and networks that support the
development and adoption of new ideas, technologies, and practices in the agricultural sector.
Or more simply, The Agriculture Innovation System (AIS) refers to a framework that facilitates
the development and adoption of new technologies, practices, and processes in agriculture. It
emphasizes the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders to drive innovation, improve
agricultural productivity, and promote sustainability.

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 Key Components of AIS
1. Farmers: The primary users of 1. Technological Innovations: 1. Research and

INNOVATION (TYPES) :

KNOWLEDGE FLOW :
STAKEHOLDERS :
innovations, providing feedback New tools, equipment, or Development (R&D):
and insights based on their techniques (e.g., precision Generating new knowledge
agriculture, genetically through research.
experiences. modified organisms). 2. Dissemination: Sharing
2. Research Institutions: 2. Social Innovations: New knowledge through
Universities and agricultural approaches to collaboration, extension services, training,
research organizations that develop community engagement, or and digital platforms.
new technologies and practices. resource sharing (e.g., 3. Feedback Loops:
farmer cooperatives). Collecting farmer
3. Extension Services: Agencies that
3. Institutional Innovations: experiences and insights to
disseminate knowledge and provide Changes in policies or inform future research and
training to farmers. organizational structures improvements.
4. Private Sector: Agribusinesses and that improve access to
startups that invest in and resources and information.
commercialize agricultural
innovations.
5. Government: Policy-makers who
create an enabling environment for
innovation through regulations,
funding, and support programs.
6. NGOs and Community
Organizations: Facilitate
knowledge sharing and support for
marginalized farmers.
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 Processes in AIS
• IDEA GENERATION: Identification of problems or opportunities that require innovative
1. solutions, often through participatory methods involving farmers and other stakeholders.

• RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT: Collaboration among researchers, farmers, and the

2. private sector to develop and test new technologies or practices.

• TESTING AND VALIDATION: Pilot projects and trials to evaluate the effectiveness of
3. innovations in real-world conditions.

• DISSEMINATION AND ADOPTION: Training, workshops, and outreach to promote the

4. use of successful innovations among farmers.

• MONITORING AND EVALUATION: Assessing the impact of innovations on productivity,

5. sustainability, and farmer livelihoods to inform future efforts.

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 IDEA GENERATION

RESEARCH AND
DEVELOPMENT

MONITORING
TESTING AND
AND
VALIDATION
EVALUATION

DISSEMINATION
AND ADOPTION

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EXTENSION ADVISORY SERVICES(EAS)
• Extension advisory services refer to a range of professional services provided by
extension agents or specialists to assist individuals, organizations, and communities in
solving problems, making decisions, and improving their knowledge and skills
• Extension agents and specialists work closely with clients to identify their needs and
goals.
• Extension services are often delivered through a variety of channels, including in-
person meetings, workshops, webinars, and other forms of outreach.

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 ROLE OF EAS IN AIS
 Extension advisory services play a crucial role in the agricultural innovation system by providing
information, guidance, and support to farmers, agribusinesses, and other stakeholders in the agricultural
sector.
 EAS can also help farmer to overcome any barriers to adoption.

• Some common activities of EAS :

1. Providing information and guidance on best practices that can impact productivity and
profitability.
2. Facilitating the adoption of new technologies, by providing training and support to farmers
and other stakeholders.
3. Supporting the development of new agricultural products and value chains.
4. Working with farmers and other stakeholders to identify and address local challenges and
opportunities.

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 ROLE OF EAS IN AIS-Information delivery
 The role EAS in AIS-multifaceted and can involve providing information and technical
assistance, and building capacity and empowering stakeholders
 EAS helps in facilitate flow of information and knowledge with in AIS.

 In terms of information delivery-EAS use various ways:

1.Field days demonstration

2.Information material
3.One-on-one support
4.Group meeting
5.Online platforms

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 Benefits of AKIS & AIS
• Enhanced Productivity: Farmers gain access to up-to-date information, leading to improved
crop yields and resource management.
• Sustainability: Promotes environmentally friendly practices and the sustainable use of resources.
• Increased efficiency: Farmers & other users can be efficient in their respective works.
• Economic Growth: Increased productivity and efficiency contribute to rural development and economic
stability.
• Informed Decision-Making: Provides farmers with the information needed to make better decisions
regarding crops, livestock, and market opportunities.
• Policy Development: Informs policy-makers about the needs and challenges faced by the agricultural
sector.
• Enhanced collaboration and networking: Facilitates collaboration and exchange of information among
diverse stakeholders through a networking system.

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 Challenges with AKIS & AIS
• Accessibility : Access to technology and information can be uneven, particularly in rural areas.
• Fragmentation: Lack of coordination among different stakeholders can lead to inefficiencies
and gaps in information flow. Multiple sources of information may lead to inconsistencies and
confusion.
• Cultural Barriers and Linguistic Barriers: Variations in terms of language, education, and
practices can hinder effective communication and knowledge sharing.
• Technological Limitations: Lack of infrastructure or digital literacy can restrict the use of
modern information technologies.
• Funding and Resources: Insufficient investment in R&D and extension services can
limit or resist Knowledge & innovation flow.
• Dependance on external funding

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 SOME POPULAR AKIS & AIS
1. THE AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SYSTEM IN INDIA
• Description: India has a robust agricultural extension system that
involves government agencies, NGOs, and private sector organizations
working together to disseminate knowledge to farmers.
• Activities: Includes training programs, field demonstrations, and the use
of mobile applications to share information on crop management, pest
control, and market prices.

2. FAO'S AGRICULTURAL KNOWLEDGE HUB

• Description: The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has
developed a global Agricultural Knowledge Hub that serves as a platform
for sharing best practices and innovations.
• Activities: Provides access to research, case studies, and tools to
improve food security and sustainable agricultural practices.

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 SOME POPULAR AKIS & AIS
3. FARMERS’ FIELD SCHOOLS (FFS) IN SOUTHEAST ASIA
• Description: FFS are participatory training programs that empower
farmers to experiment and learn about sustainable farming practices.
• Activities: Farmers engage in hands-on learning, focusing on
integrated pest management, soil health, and crop diversification.

4. AGRI-TECH EAST IN THE UK

• Description: A business-focused initiative that connects agriculture
with technology, fostering collaboration between farmers,
researchers, and tech companies.
• Activities: Organizes events, workshops, and networking
opportunities to promote innovation in agri-tech solutions.

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 SOME POPULAR AKIS & AIS
5. DIGITAL GREEN
• Description: A non-profit organization that uses video and digital
technology to share agricultural knowledge with smallholder farmers.
• Activities: Community-led video screenings on best practices,
followed by discussions to encourage knowledge sharing and
adaptation.

6. AGRICULTURE INNOVATION SYSTEM IN KENYA

•Description: Kenya’s agricultural innovation system involves partnerships between research
institutions, universities, government, and farmers.
•Activities: Collaborative research on drought-resistant crops, integrated pest management, and
training programs for farmers.

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 SOME POPULAR AKIS & AIS

7. The Netherlands’ Innovation Network

8. e-Agriculture in Africa
9. The Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN) in the UK
10. The CGIAR Consortium

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 Conclusion
The AKIS & AIS plays a vital role in modern agriculture by bridging the gap between research
and practice.
An effective Agriculture Knowledge System & Agriculture Innovation System is crucial for
addressing the challenges faced by the agricultural sector. By fostering collaboration and
enhancing the flow of information, it can lead to improved farming practices, sustainable
resource management, and better livelihoods for farmers and contributes to improved agricultural
outcomes and resilience in the face of global challenges. Integrating modern technologies and
participatory approaches can further strengthen the system, making it more responsive to the
needs of all stakeholders involved.

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 THANKS TO YOU
FOR YOUR VALUABLE TIME.!!!
E-Mail: [email protected]

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