The present study aims to assess the utilization of various information sources by farmers to access agro-advisories disseminated under the District Agro-meteorological Unit (DAMU) in Jalore district of Rajasthan. DAMU plays a vital role in supporting farmers through weather-based agricultural advice, helping them in crop planning and management. The research explores the extent to which different communication channels, including personal contacts, social media, mobile applications, radio, and television, are used by farmers to receive and interpret DAMU advisories. A structured survey was conducted among selected farmers using purposive and random sampling methods. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, mean percent score, and ranking methods. The findings reveal that social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook, followed by personal contact and mobile-based services, are the most commonly used sources. The study highlights the importance of enhancing the accessibility and effectiveness of these channels for better dissemination of weather-based advisory services.

DAMU, GKMS, KVK, Agro-advisories, ICT, Weather Forecast

The study clearly establishes that the District Agro-Meteorological Unit (DAMU) has played a significant role in improving the accessibility and utilization of weather-based agro-advisories among farmers in Jalore district, Rajasthan. The findings reveal that social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp, along with personal contacts, emerged as the most preferred sources of information for beneficiary farmers, while non-beneficiaries relied more on traditional media like television and YouTube. This indicates a gradual but steady shift from conventional to digital communication channels for agricultural information dissemination. Overall, the results highlight that digital platforms are now central to advisory delivery, though traditional media continues to serve as a supplementary source, especially for non-beneficiaries. For maximizing impact, DAMU should prioritize strengthening digital literacy, ensuring timely and user-friendly updates, and promoting advisories in local dialects and voice-based formats. Strengthening last-mile connectivity and enhancing trust in advisory services can further empower farmers to make informed decisions regarding crop planning, input management, and risk mitigation. Thus, the study underscores the transformative role of DAMU in bridging the gap between scientific weather-based information and farmers’ practical needs, contributing towards climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture in vulnerable regions like Jalore.

Bodlya, H., Kumar, M. and Anisha (2025). A Study on Accessibility and Utilization of DAMU Agro-advisory Information by Farmers in Jalore, Rajasthan. Biological Forum, 17(9): 69-72.