22. Role of union digital centre (UDC) in agricultural extension services in Bangladesh

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to reveal how effectively UDC working for the farmers who are contributing to the feeding of a huge population. Government planned for digital Bangladesh and established UDC in all union of Bangladesh providing digital support. This study stressed the UDC’s contribution to the agricultural extension and expansion. The study found 86.3% of farmers and 100% of entrepreneurs strongly agreed that they (farmers) are benefited from the services of UDC. The study also revealed 44.2% and 51.6% of farmers satisfied with the services and information provided by the UDC respectively. But farmers (51.6%, agreed) and entrepreneurs (50%, strongly agreed) faced adversity in logistic support to provide digital services. Data were collected through a survey method using purposive sampling, a semi-structured questionnaire of 285 farmers from January to June 2019 in five districts of Bangladesh. The study recommended that government should increase technological and infrastructural support for tremendous output in agriculture.