ICT use by businesses in rural India: The case of EID Parry's Indiagriline

This case presents the experience of EID Parry, a major sugar manufacturer based in India. The vision behind this initiative was to increase the livelihood of farmers and bridge the gap between rural and urban India by providing a one stop shop for the interchange of goods and information for both farmers and other members of the rural community. The case presents details of how this vision was implemented and the results. The company created kiosks with internet and computer access and developed and maintained a web portal. The portal provided information relating to farming techniques, farm business information, general information on weather, etc., and access to the firm's ERP system. The business model was to franchise all kiosks to local entrepreneurs.The company found that the franchise model was not financially viable in all locations and the company had to intervene with company-owned kiosks. Further, it was observed that information alone was not sufficient to help farmers—a firm has to provide structural and financial solutions. There was a need for intermediaries in the learning system. The ERP system was vital.