Information matters: how does access to agricultural knowledge systems shape the agricultural landscape in South Asia?

Purpose Agricultural information is not only central to shaping individual decisions but also plays a critical role in structuring regional agricultural practices, social relationships, and the broader information network environment within which farmers operate. This study investigates the structure and performance of agricultural information systems in South Asia’s Eastern Gangetic Plains (EGP), spanning Bangladesh, India and Nepal, where smallholder farmers are increasingly encouraged to diversify their livelihoods.Design/methodology/approach Data are collected from 36 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) conducted separately with men and women farmers.Findings The study examines the strengths, limitations, and contextual relevance of various information transmission channels – including public extension services, informal community networks, and private agrovet-based systems.Practical implications Special attention is given to how these mechanisms intersect with issues of socio-cultural norms, trust, institutional support, and technological accessibility.Theoretical implications This study engages Social Network Theory and the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS) framework to conceptualise agriculture as a complex adaptive system involving diverse actors and interactive learning processes.Originality/value The findings highlight the centrality of informal and relational networks – particularly farmer-to-farmer and commercial interactions – in enabling or restricting livelihood diversification in South Asia.