A Digital Platform for Disseminating Horticultural Technologies to Farmers and Stakeholders

Abstract

Horticultural crops, including fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, medicinal crops and mushrooms play a significant role in improving the food security, nutrition, health and livelihood security for millions of people. Advancements in crop cultivation and processing methods have significantly enhanced crop yields and extended the shelf life of horticultural products. ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), a premier research institute in horticulture, dedicated to advancing horticultural science has developed numerous technologies that provide information on various management aspects and bringing awareness benefitting farmers and other stakeholders. From protected cultivation to post-harvest technologies and integrated pest management, these technologies are instrumental in transforming the horticulture sector. To maximize the impact of these innovations and to ensure these advancements reach a broader audience of farmers and stakeholders involved in horticulture, effective dissemination and large-scale adoption are essential. Digital technologies can bridge the information gap and empower farmers with valuable insights for sustainable agricultural development and livelihood enhancement. In this regard, efforts have been made to digitize the horticulture technologies developed at the institute and disseminate the same through web applications which is a cost effective way of communication channel reaching lakhs of farmers. The present study was aimed to design and develop a user-friendly, informative web interface to introduce and showcase these innovative technologies from crop production to value addition for horticultural crop producers and other stakeholders thus making them more accessible. This informative approach helps users understand the benefits and feasibility in identifying and adopting these technologies in their own operations. The web interface is structured to facilitate quick navigation through various horticulture technologies, enabling users to easily identify and explore the technology categories most relevant to their needs. This digital platform can serve as an effective tool for boarder reach in the horticulture technology transfer process to enhance crop productivity and promote sustainable farming for better remuneration.