Development and Validation of AgTech-Enabled Market Access Scale for Hi -Tech Agriculture

Sownthariya S; Safna Vatakke Kandy Meethal; Allan Thomas

doi:10.48165/IJEE.2026.621RT07

Authors

S. Sownthariya Kerala Agricultural University https://orcid.org/0009-0006-4186-1773
Safna Vatakke Kandy Meethal Agricultural Officer, Agriculture Development and Farmers Welfare Department, Government of Kerala, Kerala.
Allan Thomas Kerala Agricultural University

https://doi.org/10.48165/IJEE.2026.621RT07

Abstract

Digital technologies and institutional innovations are increasingly shaping agricultural market access alongside traditional infrastructure. This study, conducted in 2025, developed and validated a multidimensional scale to systematically measure farmers’ perceptions of AgTech-enabled market access in hi-tech cultivation. The validated scale consisted of 56 items across nine dimensions: transportation infrastructure, distance to market, market information access, digital market platforms, agri-input accessibility, market institutions, storage and logistics, intermediaries, and frequency of market visits. Empirical validation demonstrated high conformity (mean = 13.64), strong relevancy ratings (>3.0), high internal consistency (Cronbach’ alpha value = 0.97), and significant dimensional distinctiveness (ANOVA, F = 3.301; p < 0.01). The mean value of Simpson’s Index of Diversity was found to be 0.834, indicating the diverse nature of the scale items across the nine dimensions. The scale provides a robust and reliable instrument for researchers, policymakers, and extension professionals to assess AgTech-enabled market access, identify barriers, and design evidence-based interventions for strengthening hi-tech agriculture.

Author Biographies

S. Sownthariya , Kerala Agricultural University

Department of Agricultural Extension Education
Safna Vatakke Kandy Meethal, Agricultural Officer, Agriculture Development and Farmers Welfare Department, Government of Kerala, Kerala.

Agricultural Officer, Agriculture Development and Farmers welfare Department, Government of Kerala, Kerala.
Allan Thomas, Kerala Agricultural University

Professor and Head, Department of Agricultural Extension Education, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.

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