Perspective
There is almost unanimous agreement that the ATMA pilot was more successful than its subsequent expansion. The once strong link between research and extension is weak today, but the example from Bihar suggests that strengthening is possible at the district and local level, where it counts. This requires qualified and adequately led and empowered male and female staff-people who understand agriculture and are trained in farmer-led and marker-led extension. There are too few qualified agronomists willing to work in the field. Also much needed is better alignment of the many different schemes and organizations involved in extension.