Kharif agricultural activities in Ballari district is going on with a digital touch, with farmers using their mobile phones for information on improved agricultural practices, steps to be taken before sowing, importance of crop insurance scheme, among other things.

“As per instructions of Agriculture Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, we have created a group of progressive farmers in each one of the 27 hoblis in the district.

Agricultural Officer manning the Raitha Samparka Kendras will pass on all required information about crop insurance, suitable crop to be cultivated, precautionary measures to be taken to protect crops from pests and diseases, among other things, through social media (WhatsApp). The use of social media has been very easy and helpful to convey the message to farmers. Gradually, we would include more number of farmers in the group,” Sharnappa Mudagal, Joint Director of Agriculture, told The Hindu .

T. Satyanarayan, a farmer and a member of the group, said that farmers can now access the required information with much ease.

Shantala, Agricultural Officer, Raitha Samparka Kendra, Ballari, said that the response from farmers to messages/information sent has been very encouraging.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> National> Karnataka / by Special Correspondent / Ballari – June 30th, 2016