ABSTRACT
THIS CHAPTER 1 Discusses the role of public and private agricultural research in gen-
erating improved technologies and institutions and the effects of those technologies on income growth and distribution and on food security
2 Describes the major types of agricultural research, and factors influencing the transfer of research results from one country to another
3 Examines the role of technology and information transfer mechanisms such as public agricultural extension and non-governmental organizations
THE ROLE of AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH A major determinant of growth in agricultural production is the effectiveness of agricultural research. Through research, the productivity of existing resources is increased, new higher-productivity inputs and ways of producing food are developed, and new or improved institutional arrangements are designed. Examples of research outputs include higher-yielding plant varieties, better methods for controlling insects and diseases, increased knowledge about methods for manipulating plant or animal genes, and designs for improved agricultural policies. Research creates the potential for increased agricultural production, moderated food prices, increased foreign exchange, reduced pressure
on the natural resource base, and many other positive results. Let’s consider in more detail the nature of these effects and the possibilities for negative as well as positive outcomes.
