Pooja Karki, Sonali Sharma, Shivani Sharma Abha Thakur and Amit Dhankar
Abstract
Agricultural extension plays a crucial role by bridging the gap between researcher institutions and farming communities. In India where agriculture extension remains the backbone of economy and livelihood, effective extension systems are essential for the transfer of technologies, adoption and diffusion of modern technologies. This review examines the role of agricultural extension in facilitating technology transfer, improving productivity and promoting sustainable agricultural practices and technology. It highlights how various theories and models such as the diffusion of innovation, innovation decision process, agricultural knowledge and information systems etc explain technology adoption among farmers. The paper also explores innovation approaches like ICT based services, farmer field school, public private partnerships and participatory methods that enhance the effectiveness of extension systems. Overall the review emphasizes that strengthening extension services is crucial for accelerating agricultural transformation, ensuring food security and achieving inclusive rural development in India.