Internet; An ICT Tool in Agriculture

Definition

• The Internet is a global system of interconnected computer networks that allows exchange of information, communication, and services worldwide.
• In agriculture, it acts as a knowledge superhighway, linking researchers, extension workers, policymakers, and farmers.

Features

• Fast, interactive, and global communication.
• Provides multimedia information (text, audio, video, images).
• Accessible via computer, smartphone, or tablet.
• Supports both one-way (websites, portals) and two-way communication (emails, chats, video calls).

General Facts

• The Internet is a global network of interconnected computers.
• First concept: ARPANET (Advanced Research Projects Agency Network) – developed in 1969 by the U.S. Department of Defense.
• The term “Internet” was first used in 1974.
• Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web (WWW) in 1989–1990.
• India got Internet services in 1995 (through VSNL).
• As of 2025, India is the 2nd largest internet user base after China.

Facts About Internet in Agriculture

1. The Government of India promotes Digital Agriculture through internet-based ICT tools.
2. Important Internet-based portals in Indian agriculture:

• Agmarknet (2000) – Market price information.
• e-Choupal (2000, ITC initiative) – Farmer–market linkage.
• Kisan Call Centre (2004) – Toll-free advisory (1800-180-1551).
• mKisan Portal (2013) – SMS advisories to farmers.
• e-NAM (2016) – National Agriculture Market, online trading platform.

1. Internet enables Precision Farming (using GPS, GIS, remote sensing).
2. Facilitates e-learning and online training for farmers & extension workers.
3. Internet-based communication (e-mail, WhatsApp, YouTube, podcasts) widely used for extension services.

Exam-Oriented Quick Points

• First E-mail sent: 1971 by Ray Tomlinson.
• India’s 1st Internet Service Provider: VSNL (1995).
• World Internet Users (2025): Over 4 billion.
• India Internet Users (2025 est.): Over 900 million.
• Digital India programme (2015): Aims to connect rural India with high-speed internet.
• Agriculture: Used in Agmarknet, e-NAM, mKisan, e-Choupal, KCC.

Multimedia

Definition; Multimedia refers to the integration of different types of media like text, images, audio, video, graphics, and animations in a digital form to deliver information in an interactive and effective way.

Examples of Multimedia Use in Agriculture

• Digital Green – uses videos to educate farmers.
• Kisan Call Centres (with audio + text support).
• YouTube agricultural channels – crop management tutorials.
• Mobile apps – combining graphics, text, and audio alerts.

In competitive exams, remember:
Multimedia = Text + Audio + Video + Graphics + Animation → Effective communication for agriculture & rural development.

Multimedia – Key Facts

• Definition – Multimedia is the integration of text, graphics, audio, video, and animation into a single platform for effective communication.
• Origin of Term – The word “Multimedia” became popular in the 1960s, but it was widely used in the 1990s with the growth of computers and the internet.
• First Multimedia PC – Introduced by Microsoft & IBM in 1991 with CD-ROM support.

Types of Multimedia

• Linear – No user control (e.g., movies, TV).
• Non-Linear / Interactive – User participation (e.g., e-learning apps, games, websites).

Uses in Agriculture

• Training & Extension – Animated videos, interactive CDs, and e-learning for farmers.
• Awareness Campaigns – Use of posters, videos, and digital slides for demonstrations.
• Mobile Apps – Combine text, audio, and video for farmer advisories.
• Virtual Classrooms – Used for distance education in agriculture universities.

Real-Life Examples

• YouTube & Educational Portals (Krishi Vigyan Kendra videos, ICAR online training).
• Multimedia campaigns for Swachh Bharat, Digital India, and Farmer Awareness.