Digital Tools and Renewable Energy Transforming Agricultural Productivity in 27 Developing Countries

A team of researchers from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Rourkela and the Azerbaijan State University of Economics, Turkey has conducted a comprehensive study on the impact of digital tools and renewable energy on agricultural productivity in 27 developing countries. The study, which was published in the "Technology Analysis and Strategic Management" journal, reveals that internet use, mobile connectivity, renewable energy, agricultural land, and fertilizer consumption collectively shape the nature of food production in a rapidly changing world.

Key Takeaways:

• The research team analyzed agriculture-related data from 27 developing countries, spanning 2000 to 2021, using advanced econometric methods.
• The countries included in the study were India, Argentina, China, Pakistan, Ghana, Malaysia, Togo, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Nigeria, Thailand, Bolivia, Nicaragua, Tunisia, Botswana, Jordan, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Panama, Tanzania, Costa Rica, Mexico, the Philippines, Kenya, Dominican Republic, Mozambique, and El Salvador.
• Internet use, mobile phones, and renewable energy individually boost agricultural productivity, but their combined effect can sometimes be detrimental due to challenges such as unreliable electricity, limited internet connectivity, and low digital literacy in rural areas.
• Agriculture is the backbone of developing countries, accounting for more than 50% of the workforce engaged in farming activity directly or indirectly.
• Sustainable agricultural practices can create win-win situations by enhancing socio-economic conditions and positively contributing to the environment.
• Governments in developing countries should invest in ICT infrastructure to expand internet access for rural farmers and promote digital literacy through training programs.
• Policies that provide free or subsidized mobile services can help smallholder farmers access vital information on markets, weather, and soil health.
• Integrating renewable energy with digital tools is key to achieving sustainable agricultural productivity.

Statistics:

• 27 developing countries were included in the study.
• 2000 to 2021 is the timeframe of the data analyzed.
• More than 50% of the workforce in developing countries is engaged in farming activity directly or indirectly.
• India is one of the countries included in the study.
• The "Technology Analysis and Strategic Management" journal published the study.

Sources:

• Researchers from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Rourkela and the Azerbaijan State University of Economics, Turkey
• "Technology Analysis and Strategic Management" journal
• Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Pioneer