Agri-Input Dealers in the country are the primary source of information on farm to the agricultural community, besides the supply of inputs and credit. However, majority of these dealers do not have formal agricultural education. In order to build their technical competency in agriculture and to facilitate them to serve the farmers better and to act as para-extension professionals, National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE) has launched a self-financed “One-year Diploma in Agricultural Extension Services for Input Dealers (DAESI) Program” during the year 2003 with a course fee of Rs.20, 000/- to the input dealers. Due to positive impact of the program, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India has decided to implement this program for Input dealers in all the States of the country.

The program will be implemented by MANAGE through State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institutes (SAMETIs). The Department of Agriculture and Cooperation & Farmers' Welfare (DAC & FW), GoI, will subsidize the course fee (50%) to the extent of 10,000/- per Input dealer. However, where Agribusiness companies are involved, the company will contribute Rs.10, 000/- and the balance Rs.10, 000/- will be contributed equally by DAC and Input Dealer @ Rs.5000/- each.

The technical information is delivered through Contact Classes by Agricultural Experts & Practitioners at district level on Sundays or Market holidays for 48 days including field visits spread over a year. Details of program is available in the guidelines.