Question

An Extension worker has to perform the following roles-
A. Counsellor
B. Mediator
C. Advocate
D. Catalyst
E. Teacher
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, B, C and D only
• B. B, C, D and E only
• C. A, C, D and E only
• D. A, B, D and E only

Hint:

An extension worker's primary function is to facilitate learning and self-help (acting as a teacher, counselor, mediator, and catalyst) rather than taking a partisan political stance.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
An agricultural extension worker acts as a link between agricultural research institutions and rural farming communities.
To help farmers adopt improved practices and solve local problems, the extension worker must perform several professional roles.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze each of the roles listed in the question:
- Counsellor (A): The extension worker acts as a counselor, listening to farmers' problems, diagnosing constraints, and advising them on technical and management choices.
- Mediator (B): They act as a mediator to resolve conflicts within the community and facilitate coordination between farmers, cooperatives, input suppliers, and government agencies.
- Catalyst (D): They act as a change agent or catalyst, stimulating the community to identify their needs, initiate self-help projects, and adopt improved practices.
- Teacher (E): They act as an educator or teacher, delivering training, organizing field demonstrations, and explaining scientific principles in a simple, practical format.
- Advocate (C): An advocate is a political or legal role that involves representing a specific group's interests in a partisan manner.
In contrast, professional extension work is based on neutrality, scientific objectivity, and facilitating self-reliance within the entire community.
Therefore, the standard roles of an extension worker are A, B, D, and E.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option representing these roles is (D).