Training Need Assessment of rice farmers regarding weeds and their management in Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

The training needs of rice growers in Punjab, Pakistan were assessed regarding the production technology used in growing rice. Total 332 rice growers were selected through random sampling technique from tehsil Nowshera Virkan, district Gujranwala and interviewed accordingly through a face-to-face interview technique. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings indicated that farmers had adequate awareness about the weeds and their management. The demonstration was the most effective technique as used by the extension field staff to create awareness among farmers about weeds management. Social media and electronic media use were appeared least effective. This indicates that farmers were more convenient with the traditional technique of creating awareness. Regarding training needs, Rice farmers had maximum training needs regarding chemical control and identification of rice weeds. Resourceful, cost-effective, and timely weed management options are pivotal to making rice crop profitable. Thus, Agriculture Department, Punjab should be aimed at empowering the rice farmers technically, to train them through both conventional approaches (i.e. demonstration plots) and technology-led approaches (i.e. Information Communication Technologies (ICTs), social media and electronic media).