What is the issue?
In the Hindu Kush Himalaya farmers have typically had limited direct access to timely information relevant to producing, managing, harvesting, and selling crops. They have depended on traditional or secondhand sources of information. In many places climate change have changed the onset and duration of dry and rainy seasons, making traditional knowledge less relevant. Lack of updated marked information may have caused farmers to sell their crops at too low prices or produce too much or little of certain crops.
What is the solution?
Smartphones are widespread among farmers in the Hindu Kush Himalaya. A ‘one-stop-shop’ smartphone app containing vital agricultural and market data can support farmers in their work. It can help them better adapt to climate change, produce crops more efficiently and get a better price for their produce – all of which improve their livelihoods and resilience against climate change. Democratic access to information and support in how to utilize it empower the individual farmer and female farmers in particular.
Are there any challenges?
Digital services need to be adapted to the local circumstances. It is important that the information is available in the local language, as well as relevant and easy to understand and act upon. In addition, internet coverage is limited in rural areas. The smartphone app therefore needs extensive offline functionality. However, for the most time sensitive data, such as market prices and weather forecasts, internet connection would be needed. It would also be important to continue supporting the poorest farmers through other means, as they may not have access to smartphones and internet.
