Information Management for Sri Lankan Vegetable Farmers: Effectiveness of ICT Applications

Abstract

The scenario behind Sri Lankan agriculture sector is that one-third of the country’s population who engage in agriculture contributes only 7% of the GDP. The distribution of smaller amounts of income among large communities increases poverty among farmers in Sri Lanka. This limited income shrinks further due to sudden price drops, wastage, damages and oversupply. Various types of ICT-based solutions have been provided to eliminate poverty among farmers in Sri Lanka. However, research findings and literature show that most farmers are still suffering in poverty in an age of information even with the availability of many forms of information sources required for farmers. Due to some issues or reasons, farmers do not continuously use information systems and available information systems become obsolete within a short period due to lack of continual use. The research explores reasons for the limited use of information and communication technology-based agricultural information systems among Sri Lankan farming community. The research collected data using literature review, questionnaires and interviews from 76 farmers in four districts of Sri Lanka. Weekly average prices of three selected vegetables and selling offers received for a digital classified AgriApp were observed for one year and collected data was analyzed to identify farmers’ and market behavior patterns. Research findings will help to increase ICT practices in agriculture, reduce wastage, control price fluctuation, and eliminate oversupply. It will ensure a continuous supply of vegetables and food security of the nation.