ARCHIVES
VOL. 12, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Digital literacy and infrastructure in e – NAM adoption for arecanut farmers in Karnataka: A literature review
Authors
Vijayakumara S, Dr. Monica S
Abstract
This literature review critically examines the
role of digital literacy and infrastructure in e-NAM (National Agriculture
Market) adoption among arecanut farmers in Karnataka, India's primary
arecanut-producing region contributing 70% of national output. Despite e-NAM's
transformative potential to improve price realization by 20-30% and reduce
transaction costs, adoption remains below 35% among smallholder farmers due to
persistent digital divide barriers. The review synthesizes evidence from 18
peer-reviewed studies (2018-2026) spanning agricultural marketing evolution,
e-NAM platform performance, digital literacy frameworks (TAM/UTAUT), rural
infrastructure constraints, and arecanut-specific marketing challenges in
Malnad regions like Shivamogga and Hassan. Key findings reveal that 70% of
farmers exhibit low cyber proficiency despite moderate education levels, 40-50%
rural broadband maintenance gaps cause connectivity deficits, and major
constraints include cash payment preferences, trust in physical markets,
inadequate assaying facilities, and technical discomfort. Perishability of
fresh arecanut (3-5 day shelf life) further complicates e-platform adoption
compared to grains. The review identifies critical gaps: 90% e-NAM studies
ignore perishables, Malnad terrain differs from Haryana-centric research, and
mediation pathways remain untested. Policy recommendations include FPO-led
vernacular training programs, BharatNet infrastructure upgrades, standardized
grading systems, and service centers targeting 25-35% adoption increase.
Download
Pages:24-29
How to cite this article:
Vijayakumara S, Dr. Monica S "Digital literacy and infrastructure in e – NAM adoption for arecanut farmers in Karnataka: A literature review". International Journal of Commerce and Management Research, Vol 12, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 24-29
Download Author Certificate
Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.