An exhibition is a systematic display of models, specimens, charts, photographs, pictures, posters, information etc. in a sequence around a theme to create awareness and interest in the community.
This method is suitable for reaching all types of people. Exhibitions may be held at the village, block, sub-division, district, State, national and international levels.
Though an exhibition is organized around a major theme, other related themes and some unrelated items like entertainment may also be included.
Exhibitions may also be organized by taking advantage of local fairs and festivals.
In fixing dates for exhibition, the weather condition and the schedule of farm operations may be kept in view.
Form a steering Committee and suitable sub-committees with the specialists, local leaders and administrators
Decide on the theme and the organization to be involved
Prepare a budget estimate and procure funds
Decide on the venue, time and duration
Prepare a written programme and communicate to all concerned in time. Keep some cultural and recreational programmes in the evening
Get the site ready within the schedule date. Make provision for essential facilities
Earmark a stall for display of exhibits to be brought by the farmers
Arrange a pandal for holding meeting, training and entertainment programmes
Display posters at important places. Publicize about the exhibition through mass media
Decorate the stalls simply and tastefully, Make adequate arrangements for lighting. Use special-effect lights when necessary
Prepare good quality and colourful exhibits which shall convey the desired message to the visitors. Use local materials as far as possible. Label the exhibits in local language with bold letter
Display exhibits about 50 to 60 cm. above the floor of the stall, up to a height of about 2 meters. Maintain proper sequence. Avoid overcrowding of exhibits. Take precaution against display of insignificant and unrelated exhibits
If possible, arrange action and live exhibits
Train up interpreters and allot specific duties. For a long duration exhibition, arrange rotation and replacement of personnel
Implementation
Organize formal opening of the exhibition by a local leader or a prominent person
Arrange smooth flow of visitors
Let the interpreters briefly explain the exhibits to the visitors so that the intended message is clearly communicated. Distribute publications during the visit
Organize a panel of experts to be present nearby, so that the visitors who would like to know more or discuss some problems could get the desired information
Conduct meetings, training programmes etc. as per schedule during the day time. Use the pandal at night for entertainment programmes
Arrange judging of exhibits brought by the farmers and give away prizes and certificates
Keep the exhibits and premises clean. Replace exhibits us and when necessary
If desired, judge the stalls on the basis of their quality of display, ability to draw visitors and effectiveness in communicating message, and award certificates
Conclude the exhibition as scheduled by thanking the participants and those who have helped
Follow-up
Meet some visitors personally and maintain a visitors book for comments during the exhibition to get feedback information
Talk to the local leaders and assess success of the exhibition
Ensure availability of critical inputs and facilities emphasized during the exhibition
Look for changes in practice in the community in the coming years
Participants