Analysis of Socio-economic Profile, Challenges and Recommendations of Tribal Farmers for Enhancing the Efficiency of Rythu Bharosa Kendras in Andhra Pradesh Region

Abstract

The agricultural sector is influenced by multiple interrelated factors affecting farmers’ livelihoods and the rural economy. To address these, the Government of Andhra Pradesh established Rythu Bharosa Kendras (RBKs), a demand-driven agricultural extension system providing integrated services, information, and resources at the grassroots level to enhance farmers’ productivity and income. The study adopted an ex post facto research design and was conducted in Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, and Eluru districts. A total of 120 respondents from selected mandals and villages were interviewed using a pre-tested structured schedule. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean score, and Garrett ranking methods. Results revealed that 60.83% of respondents were middle-aged, 26.67% had secondary education, and 30% practiced both agriculture and labor. About 60% had medium income levels, 35.84% owned small farms, and 68.34% had medium farming experience. Additionally, 70% had medium contact with extension agencies, 64.16% had medium mass media exposure, and 50.83% attended one to two RBK training programs. Major constraints included limited digital kiosk expertise and delayed payments for marketed produce. Farmers recommended timely payment disbursement, prompt input supply, and effective implementation of the Rythu Bharosa scheme to improve the efficiency and impact of RBKs