Mahindra Subhlabh Services Limited (MSSL) has initiated one-stop farm solutions centres called Mahindra Krishi Vihar in selected districts of India. This paper explores the performance of one such centre set up by a private entrepreneur under a franchise agreement with MSSL in Tirunelveli and Thoothukudy districts, Tamil Nadu. A primary survey revealed that participant farmers could increase their crop yields and income. The paper discusses the principles behind the success of this private extension initiative and draws lessons for the on-going public sector extension reform process in India.
Rasheed Sulaiman V, Andy Hall and Suresh N