Agricultural Resources Information System (AgRIS): An e ...

• Integrating poverty reduction and population dynamics and
migration;
• Strengthening the economic and social position of the poor
through a needs-based, development-based, and rights-based
approach;
• Enhancing the participation of the poor in decision-making
through community-based organizations; and
• Fostering the development of sustainable and affordable information
and communications technology focused on the needs of the poor.
1.18 Sound national policies favouring small farms and related
rural industries are a necessary condition for rural poverty
reduction, for coping with domestic and international competition
in the home market, and for taking advantage of export
opportunities. Trade liberalization without these measures can
aggravate poverty. Agricultural sector is too vital for India's
economy to be put on the back burner.
1.19 In poor rural areas, where agricultural productivity is low
and unreliable and there is food insecurity, better information
and knowledge-exchange can be important in lessening poverty.
The World Bank (2003) 25 emphasizes the need an international
assessment on the scientific, technical and institutional issues
associated with agricultural production, food (systems, safety,
25 World Bank (2003) “Multi-Stakeholder Regional Consultation For International Assessment on the Role of
Agricultural Science & Technology in Reducing Hunger, Improving Rural Livelihoods and Stimulating Environmentally
Sustainable Economic Growth”, at National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, National Agriculture Science
Centre, Pusa, New Delhi, 12-13 May 2003.
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