Digital Extension in Agriculture: A Review of WhatsApp Groups for Information Dissemination in India

Abstract

Information and communication technologies (ICTs), especially mobile-based platforms like WhatsApp, are bringing about a paradigm shift in agricultural extension systems in India. This research looks at the benefits and drawbacks of using WhatsApp groups for farmer education and agricultural information sharing. The study evaluates the efficacy of WhatsApp as a digital extension tool by synthesizing information from peer-reviewed publications, theses, and institutional reports based on research published between 2015 and 2026. The results show that through multimedia-supported advisories, WhatsApp groups greatly improve farmer participation, real-time communication, and information sharing. By offering timely and location-specific information, the platform enhances decision-making, fosters peer learning, and fortifies social networks. The review does, however, also point out a number of drawbacks, such as the dissemination of false information, message overload, the digital divide, and the absence of organized moderation. The efficacy and inclusivity of WhatsApp-based communication are further impacted by differences in digital literacy, smartphone availability, and network connectivity. Concerns about content reliability are also raised by the lack of institutional rules and formal validation procedures. WhatsApp groups have a lot of potential as a supplementary tool to conventional extension methods, despite these difficulties. In order to increase the efficacy of WhatsApp-based advice services, the study highlights the necessity of including expert moderation, raising digital literacy, and creating policy frameworks. Overall, the study comes to the conclusion that although WhatsApp is an effective tool for agricultural extension, its effectiveness depends on institutional backing, inclusivity, and methodical management to guarantee accurate and fair information.