The Efficacy-Competence-Adoption Nexus: The Mediating Role of Perceived Digital Competence in Technical Training Outcomes for Young Farmers in Kerala.

This study investigates the "Technical Training-Competence-Adoption Nexus" among youth farmers in Kerala, exploring how the efficacy of technical training influences the adoption of digital agriculture technologies through the mediating role of perceived digital competence. Employing a quantitative cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 410 youth farmers (aged 18–40) associated with government extension programs and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). The analysis utilized multiple linear regression and the causal steps approach to test hypothesized direct and indirect effects. Findings reveal a significant disconnect in the proposed nexus: perceived digital competence did not mediate the relationship, as the links between training and competence (p = .562) and competence and adoption (p = .932) were not statistically significant. Most notably, a "Total Effect" analysis uncovered a significant negative relationship between program relevance (beta = -0.098, p = .046), delivery method (beta = -0.135, p = .006), and adoption success. These results suggest a "complexity deterrent" effect, where comprehensive training may inadvertently emphasize technical risks and operational costs, thereby discouraging adoption among tech-savvy youth. The study concludes that building technical competence alone is insufficient; agricultural extension services must pivot toward addressing structural and economic barriers to facilitate successful digital modernization in the youth farming sector.