School of People Environment and Planning

Permanent URI for this community

https://mro.massey.ac.nz/handle/10179/10563

Browse

Browsing School of People Environment and Planning by Author "Ban, Bikas"

Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Exploring the role of mobile internet in the capability expansion of Nepalese farmers : a research report submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement for the degree of Master of International Development, Massey University
    (Massey University, 2025-02) Ban, Bikas
    This research report aims to improve the understanding of the role mobile Internet plays in expanding the capabilities of Nepalese farmers. A notable gap is evident in the existing research literature regarding the value added by mobile Internet in enhancing farming and agricultural productivity in Nepal. Given the widespread adoption of the mobile Internet and its instrumental roles, a comprehensive study is needed to address this gap. This research report makes an initial exploration in that direction. Apart from the immediate impacts of mobile Internet in farming, the results and findings are also analysed using Sen’s Capability Approach to understand the role of mobile Internet technology in the capability expansion of the farmers. A sample of five farmers was selected using purposive sampling gain some initial insights. A qualitative data analysis method is used to codify and categorise the accumulated data into separate themes. The results showed a positive relationship between mobile Internet use and farmers' productivity and income. An expansion in their capabilities is also observed due to the benefits received using mobile Internet. However, specific barriers and challenges also remain that prohibit the benefits from being achieved to a greater extent. Suggestions received from farmers during the interview and policy recommendations formulated through the data analysis have been incorporated in the report to extend its potential benefits.