Socioeconomic Profile of Fish Farmers of Telangana and Usage of Mobile Apps

Abstract

This study assessed the socioeconomic profile of fish farmers of Telangana and usage of mobile apps by them. An interview schedule was designed to assess the socioeconomic profile and to compile information on usage of mobile phones. Information was collected about age, income, fisheries experience, farm size, production, species cultivated and constraints faced by farmers. Information on mobile phone usage was studied through possession of mobile phone/smart phone, usage of mobile phones, usage of mobile apps, awareness of agriculture/fisheries apps and attitude towards usage of apps related to fisheries. Farmers’ attitude towards mobile app related to fish culture was also studied. Results indicated that farmers’ age was in the range of 35-50 years. Yearly income was in the range 2-5 lakhs. They had fish farming experience between 15-30 years. Majority had pond size of <1 hectare and fish production was between 1-2 tonnes/hectare. It was found that all the farmers used smart phones. Most common apps used by farmers were WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube and State Bank of India personal banking app. It was found that farmers were not aware of any mobile apps related to fisheries and aquaculture and thus usage was also not reported. However, they had a positive attitude towards usage of a mobile app related to fisheries. This study recommends development of mobile apps for fish farmers in a participatory manner which will be useful in disseminating information.  Based on farmers’ needs a mobile app Matsya Kiran was developed.