Development and Measurement of Utilization Pattern Index of ICT Tools in Mitigating Climate Change among the Farmers of Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have emerged as an important tool in supporting farmers to mitigate climate change through timely access to weather information, crop advisories, market intelligence, and climate-resilient agricultural practices. The present study was undertaken to develop and measure a Utilization Pattern Index of ICT tools in mitigating climate change among farmers of Andhra Pradesh during 2023–2026. The study was conducted in Srikakulam, Krishna, and Chittoor districts representing different Agro-climatic regions of Andhra Pradesh. A total sample of 240 farmers was selected through simple random sampling by following an ex-post facto research design. Initially, thirteen indicators were identified and subjected to relevancy testing by 30 judges. Based on weighted mean scores, nine indicators were Accepted for inclusion in the final index. The findings revealed that majority (67.92%) of the farmers belonged to medium level of utilization pattern, followed by low and high utilization levels. Perception of ICT benefits, digital literacy, and device utilization secured the highest index scores. The study further underscored the importance of strengthening digital literacy, improving information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, and enhancing agricultural extension services to facilitate the effective adoption and utilisation of ICT-based tools for climate-resilient agriculture. Moreover, the index developed in this study provides a robust and practical framework for assessing ICT utilisation among farmers and can serve as a valuable instrument for researchers, extension practitioners, and policymakers in the design, evaluation, and promotion of ICT-driven agricultural interventions.