Dynamics of Institutional Linkages in the Agricultural Knowledge and Information System in Pakistan

The study explored the dynamics of institutional linkages and stakeholders’ influences within the agricultural knowledge and information system framework in Pakistan. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted. Quantitative data were collected from 2250 respondents selected from 15 districts using a structured interview schedule and were analysed using percentages, mean, standard deviation, and Chi-square. The qualitative data were collected by conducting focus group meetings and key informants’ interviews, and were analysed through thematic content analysis. Results revealed that amongst the stakeholders; farmers, private sector/input supply agencies and research organisations are more prominent in AKIS. Moreover, dealers of grain markets, agricultural marketing, and extension workers & progressive farmers are the top three influencers, respectively in AKIS framework for rural development. In the context of stakeholders’ linkage analysis; farmers meeting ( =2.89), trainings (x?=2.77), and on-farm visits (x?=2.76) were the most important factors for developing strong linkages. Among the functional linkages of AKIS stakeholders; extension-farmer linkage (x?=2.77) ranked as highest, followed by extension-education linkage (x?=2.73). The study concluded that farmers’ meetings and trainings were the most effective linkages for agricultural collaboration. Coordination/ collaboration among stakeholders must be strengthened by the state-owned agricultural extension department to promote experiential learning and establishing multi-level platforms.