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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Vol. 12 No. sp4 (2025): Recent Advances in Agriculture by Young Minds - III

Impact of the ODL-based diploma in agri-inputs program on agri-input dealers in Tamil Nadu

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.9904
Submitted
8 June 2025
Published
01-12-2025

Abstract

Open and distance learning (ODL) in India has emerged as a crucial mode of education, with 45.73 lakh enrolments in 2021-22 across various courses. In agriculture, ODL plays a vital role in promoting skill development and entrepreneurship. This study evaluates the impact of the diploma in agri inputs (DAI) program, offered by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), on 350 learners who have successfully established agri-input businesses. An ex-post-facto research design was adopted, with respondents selected from seven ODL study centres using the simple random sampling method. Primary data were collected using a well-prepared questionnaire. The study assesses both social and economic impacts. Socially, DAI-trained dealers reported significant improvements in leadership (94.57 %), strategic planning (81.71 %), product expertise (80.57 %), convincing ability (80.28 %), empathy (78.85 %), follow-up and supervision (78.29 %), financial management (78.00 %), accountancy (77.43 %), human resource management (74.57 %), technical communication (73.43 %), vendor relations (71.14 %), advisory skills (70.29 %), risk management (69.14 %) and supply chain management (62.57 %). Economically, they experienced increased income (94.57 %), expanded market linkages (86.00 %), money savings (82.29 %), improved financial stability (81.43 %), achieved economic independence (78.00 %), asset creation (77.71 %), purchased farm implements (77.43 %), improved livelihood security (76.86 %), invested in inventory (76.29 %) and enhanced access to credit (76.00 %). The findings underscore the DAI program's effectiveness in enhancing business acumen and socio-economic stability among agri-input dealers. Strengthening and expanding such initiatives can further empower entrepreneurs, improve agricultural extension services and contribute to rural economic development. Despite the growing importance of ODL in agriculture, limited studies have evaluated its direct socio-economic impact on agri-input dealers, highlighting a critical research gap that this study addresses.

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