E-Governance in Agriculture: A Framework on Digital Technology Adaptation by Smallholder Farmers

Abstract

Digital farming is a modern paradigm for food production that utilizes modern technology to enhance various benefits for farmers through e-agriculture and provide higher crop yields than those achievable with traditional methods. Agriculture has been a dominant industry since the beginning, and its relevance is more crucial than ever. Population growth requires producing quality food, which may be available through new technology-based solutions. Considering food production a social expectation, managing the problems goes beyond the individual interests of farmers, governmental actions are required in the industry. The focus of the study is limited to the digital technology adaptability of smallholder farmers in the agricultural industry in Bangladesh, however, the results are generalizable. It is assumed that adapting digital technologies can be triggered through e-governance among smallholder farmers. By emphasizing the benefits of adopting this technology and illustrating how it can be best utilized, the productivity of agriculture can be improved among them. Understanding the differences compared to large-scale farming, the maturity of farms, and promoting development actions require a comprehensive framework. The study aims to present the justification of the initial framework elements. There are secondary data sources used for finding critical factors. A comprehensive response must incorporate education, government policies, and capacity building.