Evaluation of CropIn agricultural information technology services on farming outputs India

Can technological access to educational and market information affect farmer output? A study of soybean farmers in Maharashtra.

Project Introduction

This study examines how smartphone-based digital platforms can improve access to agricultural advice and market information for soybean farmers connected to a large solvent extractor in Maharashtra. Farmers in Latur, Osmanabad, Bid, and surrounding districts use these platforms to receive technical guidance and updated price information, and to communicate directly with field extension agents about plot-specific issues, with the goal of understanding whether this kind of technological access translates into measurable improvements in farmer decision-making and output.

Partners

Researchers

Project Methodology

A structured, multi-round survey design measured changes in key outcomes over time, with several thousand farmers across villages in multiple districts included in the endline sample. DIA managed all aspects of fieldwork and data management: survey instruments developed by IFPRI were reviewed, translated into Marathi, and pretested, with data collected using Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) on tablets. Enumerators and supervisors were trained through classroom sessions, field practice, and refresher sessions using bilingual field manuals, and quality was maintained through daily spot-checks and back-checks, audio audits, and high-frequency checks, with cleaned datasets, do-files, and documentation delivered to IFPRI alongside the raw data.

Impact

The study generates useful evidence on how digital advisory tools help farmers make better decisions and adopt recommended practices more confidently, by giving them direct access to timely advice and up-to-date market and price information that supports better farm management. It highlights how these tools change farmers’ information-seeking behaviour and strengthen trust in extension services, with better communication channels helping farmers raise specific concerns and receive more relevant, practical guidance. The findings can help guide organisations and policymakers interested in expanding similar advisory services to improve livelihoods in soybean-growing regions of Maharashtra and beyond.

Documentation

This project is currently in progress, and will be updated with findings as results arise.

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