Based on our initial scoping of various service providers, we have identified four different types of climate services systems or networks/chains of providers presently active in Maharashtra:

1. Public
2. Public-private
3. Private
4. Non-Governmental Organization

The project would study one service provider in each of the above category. It is envisaged that through the research process the project would be able to compare their uptake by end-user and analyze factors which influence end-user's decision making (see set of criteria). It will also study how information and advice flow through their communication system and the degree of end-user's inclusiveness in the climate services process (through two-ways communication). It would thus consider how the climate service system works from "top down", through the Service Providers and "bottom up" – from the perspectives of the farmers.