Agricultural Access Research Articles

Ergos: redefining storage infrastructure and market access for small farmers in India

Learning outcomes After completion of the case study, students will be able to analyse the path of the entrepreneurship from idea generation to market development to scaling up business, examine the impact of start-ups like Ergos on India’s agriculture value chain, discuss the challenges faced by tech entrepreneurs in growing a business, identify problems solved by Grain Bank Model and evaluate digitisation of farming’s custodial services such as warehousing, market linkages and loans. Case overview/synopsis The case study discusses how founders of Ergos, India-based leading digital AgriTech start-up, Kishor Kumar Jha and Praveen Kumar, started one of the unique models in the AgriTech landscape in India. After noticing the grim condition of small and marginal farmers in Bihar, India. Kishor and Praveen decided to put their banking and corporate experience to use in the farming sector. Ergos aimed to empower farmers by providing them with a choice on when, how much quantity, and at what price they should sell their farm produce, thus maximising their income. As a result, Ergos launched the grain bank model, which provided farmers with doorstep access of end-to-end post-harvest supply chain solutions by leveraging a robust technology platform to ensure seamless service delivery. Ergos faced many challenges in its journey related to financing, marketing and distribution. Amidst these developments, it remained to be seen how Kishor and Praveen would be able to realise their goal to serve over two million farmers across India by 2025 and create a sustainable income for them through its GrainBank Platform. Complexity academic level This case study was written for use in teaching graduate and postgraduate management courses in entrepreneurship and business strategy. Supplementary materials Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 3: Entrepreneurship

Комплексный подход к развитию инфраструктуры сбыта продукции аграрного малого и микро-бизнеса

Small and private subsidiary farms are important members of agricultural community. However, they still lack good infrastructure to market their products because they remain beyond the scope of state interest. The agricultural infrastructure in its present condition neither gives farmers access to co-financing nor allows them to shape the list of services they need. The research featured program documents issued by the Government of the Russian Federation that determine the development of wholesale food markets and aggregators of farm produce. The author generalized the experience of retail chains and agricultural consumer marketing cooperatives, as well as studied the cases of small rural businesses merging into marketing cooperatives in agricultural regions. The bibliographic study covered best foreign practices in shaping infrastructure for small farm produce, which were compared with Russian experience. The author also developed an abstract-logical method of establishing the interaction between stakeholders in a new system of farm produce aggregators. In this research, agricultural regions demonstrated the most acute problems in small business marketing. A good system of agricultural infrastructure supports production in all sectors of small business with growth potential. Today, small businesses are alone in organizing their own sales as wholesale distribution centers are not available to them. These centers work with small suppliers through intermediaries, i.e., aggregators. In the Kemerovo Region, an example of such aggregators is the one created on corporate principles between the Magnit retail chain and the Kalina-Malina agricultural consumer marketing cooperative. The experience demonstrated some advantages and disadvantages. The article introduces conditions for successful financial relations in commodity circulation chains in different distribution systems, including farmers, aggregators, and wholesale distribution centers. This approach reduces prices on consumer markets while increasing the efficiency of small farms.

A Preliminary Study on Perception of Non – Vegetarian Consumers about Backyard Poultry Farming

The present study was conducted in District Ludhiana of Punjab state to know about perception of non-vegetarian consumers about backyard poultry farming. The study was conducted by personally interviewing randomly selected Urban (Group A, n=50) and Rural (Group B, n=50) non vegetarian consumers. None of the respondent was above 60 years. Most of the non vegetarian consumers were having education level of graduation. Majority of the respondents were consuming non vegetarian food 1-2 times per week. Most of the Group A consumers were purchasing non vegetarian products from local market, while Group B consumers were purchasing it from farmers. Most of the Group A consumers has no knowledge about breeds of backyard poultry. A large chunk of consumers belonging to both Group A and Group B did not know about differences between exotic and indigenous breed. The present study highlighted the importance of strengthening of extension activities related with backyard poultry and strengthening of marketing linkages of backyard poultry farmers to the urban consumers. Fast-tracking the supply of a backyard poultry farmer’s produce to a city dweller’s doorstep ensures fresher, higher-quality food by reducing transit time, which helps to minimize spoilage and waste. It also expands market access for farmers, increases convenience for consumers, supports local economies, and can lower environmental impact by reducing transportation distances. Overall, it enhances food security and fosters a more efficient food system.

Determinan Keputusan Petani Mengelola Usahatani Padi Di Lahan Suboptimal

The conversion of paddy fields seriously impacts rice availability for national food reserves, so the government is implementing a sub-optimal land extension program. Indonesia has suboptimal land that has the potential to become a national rice barn if appropriately managed. The types of suboptimal land most widely used in rice cultivation are lowland and tidal swamps, where the community can work. This research analyzes the determinants of rice farmers' decisions in managing suboptimal land. This research was conducted in West Tanjung Jabung Regency, Jambi Province, with a sample of 90 rice farmers. Data were analyzed using the multinomial logistic regression method. The determining factors are seen from the demographic and economic aspects. The research results show that factors that significantly influence farmers' decisions to choose tidal land from the demographic aspect are age and farming experience; from the economic element are the number of family dependents, land ownership status, and non-farming income. The significant determining factors in farmers' decisions to manage lowland swamp land from the demographic aspect are age and farming experience, and from the economic element are the number of family dependents and non-farming income. From the research, recommendations that can maximize the use of suboptimal land are increasing promotion and education to the community about rice cultivation on suboptimal land, providing easy access for farmers to rent land, and it is hoped that farmers will continue to have non-farming income to balance household needs and procurement of capital and farming input.

WILLINGNESS TO ADOPT INDEX BASED CATTLE INSURANCE IN THE FACE OF CLIMATE CHANGE: EVIDENCE FROM SMALLHOLDER CATTLE FARMERS IN THE POLOKWANE LOCAL MUNICIPALITY, SOUTH AFRICA

This paper analysed the determinants of smallholder cattle farmers’ willingness to adopt Index-Based Cattle Insurance (IBCI) being climate change adaptive strategy in the Polokwane Municipality of South Africa. A multi-stage purposive sampling procedure was employed to collect primary data using structured questionnaires from 110 smallholder cattle farmers. The results revealed that about 89% of the sampled farmers were willing to adopt IBCI, while about 11% weren’t willing to adopt IBCI. The Probit regression model results revealed that marital status, farming experience, access to extension services, off-farm income and land ownership had a positive and significant influence on the willingness to adopt IBCI. However, educational level, household size, experience of cattle loss and farm size significantly influenced willingness to adopt IBCI negatively. Therefore, this study recommends workshops for raising IBCI awareness, government subsidy on insurance premiums and finally, improved market access and extension services for smallholder cattle farmers for sustainable livelihoods.

Determinants Of Adoption Of Soil Conservation Technologies Among Smallholder Farmers In Izzi Local Government Area Of Ebonyi State, Nigeria

The study examined the determinants of adoption of soil conservation technologies among smallholder farmers in Izzi Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was used to select 160 respondents for the study. Data collected with the aid of structured questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that farmers in the area had average age of 47 years and operated on 1.5 hectares of land with an average farm income of ₦152,125. Further analysis revealed that the smallholder farmers had an adoption index of 2.21 which implied that they used at least two (2) soil conservation technologies with an average source of information of 2.72 showing that they got information on soil conservation technologies from at least three different sources. Furthermore, results revealed erosion, deforestation, reduced soil fertility and indiscriminate bush burning as the forms of soil degradation existing in the area while adopted coping strategies were crop rotation, use of organic manure, intercropping practices, appropriate use of fertilizer, use of mixed cropping system and planting of trees. The results of OLS multiple regression analysis showed that the coefficient of multiple determination (R2 ) of the regression model was 0.760. This implies that seventy-six percent (76%) of the variations in level of soil conservation technology adoption were accounted for by the independent variables socio-economic characteristics of the smallholder farmers included in the model. The result of factor analysis identified social, institutional and economic factors as constraints militating against adoption of soil conservation technologies among the smallholder farmers in the study area. The rejected hypothesis concluded that there is a significant relationship between the socioeconomic characteristics of smallholder farmers and their adoption of soil conservation technologies in the area. Based on the findings, the study recommends; that local government authorities and NGOs working in areas that are prone to soil fertility losses should introduce programmes that will train and promote soil conservation technologies to be adopted by farmers to improve productivity; provision of Infrastructural facilities such as good road network to ensure easy movement of agricultural inputs to the farmers field; and Agricultural extension services which are saddled with the responsibility of disseminating timely, complete actionable information should be re-positioned and strengthened to ensure smallholder farmers access to information, through appropriate channels.

Enhancing Seed Access and Climate Resilience: A Farmer-Based Seed Multiplication Scheme in a Legume-Sorghum Double Cropping System in Mieso District Ethiopia

Sorghum is a major food security crop in Ethiopia. Sorghum landraces are particularly crucial in crop-livestock mixed farming systems in drylands, but due to the longer growing periods (6-8 months) needed for the landraces, the crop faces recurrent drought events associated with delayed rain, dry spells, and drought during critical stages. The landraces are normally grown combining a short and erratic rainy season (March to May) and a main rainy season (July to September). To address such circumstances, early-maturing improved sorghum varieties that are planted in July and mature within 3-4 months have been developed. Moreover, a sustainable cropping system involving legume-early maturing sorghum double cropping has been developed as an alternative to the traditional long-cycle sorghum production to help mitigate crop failure. The legume fits into the short rainy months. However, access to seeds of both component crops could be a challenge. The objective of this study therefore was to establish and assess the feasibility of a farmer-based seed multiplication (FBSM) scheme in enhancing the supply of quality seeds of legumes and sorghum and contributing to climate adaptation. Two activities were implemented in 2015 and 2016 in Mieso district, West Hararghe, Ethiopia. The first activity involved multiplying seeds of two early-maturing and drought-tolerant improved sorghum varieties (Dekeba and Melkam) using a FBSM scheme. The second activity was integrating this scheme into a legume-early maturing sorghum double cropping system. The results of the study show that the FBSM scheme provides much-needed support to smallholder sorghum farmers by offering resources for multiplying and marketing improved sorghum seeds, ensuring seed security, and improving access to quality seeds. The scheme aligns well with the legume-early maturing sorghum double cropping system, thereby enhancing access to compatible seeds and promoting a sustainable cropping system in the region. The scheme presents a viable solution to seed access for smallholder farmers in Ethiopia to enhance seed supply, income, and climate resilience, offering valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders

FARMER RIGHTS IN MALAYSIA: REVISITING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROTECTION OF NEW PLANT VARIETIES ACT 2004

Agriculture is crucial in guaranteeing food security all over the world. Essentially, farmers play a significant role in food security. Producing improved crop varieties is one of the ways to increase sustainable crop productivity. Farmers in Malaysia, in particular small-scale farmers, are still practicing and relying on some traditional agricultural practices. In order to protect new varieties of crops and plants, there exists some legislation vis-a-vis intellectual property rights (IPRs) in the field of agriculture. Patents and plant breeders’ rights, for instance, bring with them some legal implications towards farmers. This paper aims to examine the existing legislation governing farmer rights in Malaysia, focusing on the relevant provisions of the Protection of New Plant Variety Act 2004 (PNPVA). The research also dwells on current issues pertaining to PNPVA’s implementation and the ongoing proposed amendment. The research has employed doctrinal analysis in its investigation and analysis, which has been based on the available data and materials, supported with input collected from an interview with the Department of Agriculture (DOA). The study has found that the concept of farmer rights should not be jeopardized amidst the Government’s commitment in harmonizing the law with the International Convention for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV), while optimizing the access of Malaysian farmers to new crop varieties and plant technologies. The present study has also come to the conclusion that the Government must balance the protection afforded to plant breeders with that granted to the local farming community in Malaysia.

Estimation of technical efficiency of maize farmers in Wa East District in Ghana: translog stochastic frontier approach

ABSTRACT Efficiency analysis among maize farmers is crucial, especially when maize output continues to decline, even under improved technology. The aim of this study was to estimate the level of technical efficiency among maize farmers in Wa East District in Ghana and to assess the determinants of their technical efficiency. Data were collected from 273 household heads using the multistage sampling method. The study applied the stochastic translog production function to do the estimation and assessment. The results revealed a variation of 60.2%–89.5% efficiency levels among maize farmers. In addition, maize farmers achieved about 71.5% of the required technical competences. Factors contributing significantly were labour, land, age, farming experience, household size, hired labour and seed quality. The results showed an increasing returns-to-scale parameter being significantly different from unit. Recommendations are improvement in the capacity of farmers by agriculture extension service and accessibility of farmers to affordable production inputs in real time.

A review on prospect of wheat in Nigeria: Technological Advancement in Focus

The main issue affecting domestic wheat production in Nigeria is environmental incompatibility— the fact that wheat, being a temperate crop, requires cold climates during the growing season to thrive especially during the critical developmental stage between tillering and grain filling. This has limited the wheat growing season in Nigeria, to the cool harmattan period starting from November to March, and the wheat growing areas in Nigeria, along latitude 10°N to 14°N. Unfortunately, the harmattan period itself is also challenged by the absence of a rainy season, which typically starts after the period from April to September with unfavourable high temperature and humidity. Nigerian government policies over the years have centred on accelerating primary production (farming) instead of focusing on addressing the main issues, through research and development of cultivars that will be adaptable in Nigeria’s heat-stressed growing environment, build more irrigation areas along the harmattan latitude, strengthen extension services to ensure farmers adherence to Good Agronomic Practices (GAPs) and ease farmers access to market for fair prices. As a result, the national average ton per hectare output is abysmally 1.3 MT, prepared irrigation area is less than 10% of planned area and a near-complete disconnect between farmers and the off-taking flour milling industry, who are currently fully reliant on imported wheat. The peculiar situation is like in other tropical countries like Egypt, Ethiopia and the warm and humid Bangladesh. The paper recommended the adoption of molecular breeding technologies to strengthen the breeding processes and shorten the seeds generation time.

Effect of COVID-19 adaptation strategies on arable crop farmers’ output in the Umuahia agricultural zone of Abia State, Nigeria

This study analyzed the effect of COVID-19 adaptation strategies on arable crop farmers’ production in the Umuahia Agricultural Zone of Abia State, Nigeria. A multistage random sampling procedure was used to select seventy-two (72) arable crop farmers. Data for the study were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics (using multiple regression and Z-test analyses). The results showed that arable crop farmers had a high perceived effect (= 2.5) of COVID-19 on arable crop production and a high utilization (= 2.4) of COVID-19 adaptation strategies. The mean farm output of arable crop farmers during and after the COVID-19 pandemic was 2112.871 kg/ha and 23222.282 kg/ha, respectively. Multiple regression analysis revealed that intensive use of organic manure (1.3898 coefficients), family labor (2.0466 coefficients), less cultivable farm land (0.18189 coefficients), and access to government aid (0.6994) all had an impact on the output of arable crop farmers in the study area. The Z-test result showed that there were no significant differences between the farm output of arable crop farmers during the 2112.87109 (SD = 3158.6590) and post-COVID-19 2322.2920 (1032.5310) pandemics. The study concluded that arable crop farmers had high utilization of COVID-19 adaptation strategies. The study therefore recommended the formulation of important policy as Nigeria moves from lockdown aimed at promoting economic recovery and measures to mitigate further spread to promote access of farmers to land, which can lead to increased farmer output in the study area.

Role of Biosecurity Measures in Controlling Infectious Diseases in Poultry Farms in Thailand

Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the role of biosecurity measures in controlling infectious diseases in poultry farms in Thailand. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: In Thailand, stringent biosecurity measures are pivotal in curbing infectious diseases in poultry farms. These measures, including controlled farm access, equipment disinfection, waste management, and quarantine protocols for new birds, effectively reduce the incidence and transmission of diseases like avian influenza and Newcastle disease. Government regulations and industry support bolster these efforts, emphasizing collaboration to ensure robust disease prevention. Challenges such as cost constraints and varying compliance levels underscore the ongoing need for innovation and improved practices to safeguard the poultry industry and ensure sustainable production. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Health belief model (HBM), systems theory & social cognitive theory (SCT) may be used to anchor future studies on role of biosecurity measures in controlling infectious diseases in poultry farms in Thailand. Practice-oriented contributions emphasize ongoing training programs for farm workers and stakeholders to ensure effective implementation and compliance with biosecurity protocols. Biosecurity practices contribute to policy development by informing the formulation of regulatory standards and guidelines that mandate minimum biosecurity requirements for poultry farms.

TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY OF LAYER FARMERS IN AKWA IBOM

This study analyzed the technical efficiency of layer farmers in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. A multistage random sampling technique was employed to select a total of 100-layer farmers across three agricultural zones in Akwa Ibom State. Relevant data was collected with the aid of a questionnaire. Data collated from the field was analyzed using descriptive statistics, stochastic production frontier, and maximum likelihood estimates. The result showed that most of the farmers were female, with mean age of 36.68 years for layer farmers. The production function estimate showed that hired labour, feeds, capital depreciation, pen size, and saw dust use positively influenced output of layer birds, while family labour and medication had a negative impact on output. The technical efficiency distribution showed a mean efficiency of 66%. The determinants of technical inefficiency showed that education, family size, market share, farming experience, extension visits, trainings, farm size and membership in social groups had negative influence of technical inefficiency of layer production, and farmers age and access to credit had a positive effect on the technical inefficiency of layer production. The study recommends the government and relevant stakeholders should make efforts to subsidize the cost of essential poultry inputs, and develop a workable system to enable poultry farmers access credit. Also, extension training should be intensified as it is shown to improve the technical efficiency of layer farmers.

Effects of commercialization on food security status of cassava producing households in Abia state, Nigeria

The study examined effects of commercialization on food security status of cassava producers in Abia State, Nigeria. Specifically the study described the socio-economic characteristics of the cassava producers; examined the level of cassava commercialization; estimated mean per capita monthly food expenditure of cassava producing households; assessed the food security status of the cassava producing households; ascertained effect of commercialization on the food security status of the respondents and identified the constrained to commercialization. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed to select 96 respondents needed for the study. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive and inferential tools such as mean, frequencies, percentage, percentage household commercialization index and food security index. Results showed that the mean age of cassava producing household head was 35.3years. Cumulatively, 93.3% of cassava producing household head had formal education ranging from primary school to secondary with mean household size of 7 persons. Dominant number of the cassava farmers indicated access to credit (75.6%) with mean farm size of 1.9ha and mean farming experience of 9.9years. The result also showed a mean commercialization index of 0.646970. The study area could be regarded as food insecure given that only 35.00% of the households were food secure. The result further indicated that there was a positive relationship between commercialization level and food security in the area. However, instability in government policy (86.67%) and lack of collateral required securing loan (72.22 were major constraints to cassava commercialization in the study area. The study concluded that the proportion of food insecure households is more than the food secure households. Therefore, agricultural policies that promote access of farmers to land and other farm inputs that can lead to increased farm household productivity and income should be implemented.

Kisan Seva: Empowering Farmers with Affordable Agri-Tech Solutions

Abstract – In the contemporary agricultural landscape, access to affordable yet effective agricultural technology remains a critical concern for farmers worldwide. “Kisan Seva” emerges as a pioneering solution aimed at addressing this pressing need, providing a user-friendly platform designed to simplify the process of discovering and acquiring cost-effective agricultural tools and services across diverse categories. Leveraging state-of-the-art technologies such as React.js, MongoDB, and Node.js, Kisan Seva endeavors to revolutionize the way farmers access and adopt agricultural innovations. The essence of Kisan Seva lies in its farmer-centric approach, prioritizing accessibility, affordability, and functionality. Keywords – Kisan Seva Platform, Affordable Agri-Tech, Agricultural Innovation, Farmer Empowerment, Sustainable Agriculture, Digital Marketplace, Agri-Tech Solutions, Farming Tools, Agricultural Equipment, User-Centric Design.

Barriers and enablers of digital extension services’ adoption among smallholder farmers: the case of Cambodia, the Philippines and Vietnam

ABSTRACT Digital Extension Services (DES) could help smallholder farmers access science-based information to boost agricultural output and resource efficiency. Gaining insight into the factors influencing farmers' use of digital extension services was essential for executing behaviour change. A total of 937 farmers from Cambodia, the Philippines, and Vietnam were chosen as the sample for the study. This study employed the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) framework by utilising a structural equation model. The findings showed a range of concerns pertaining to farmers' attitudes and actions regarding the use of digital extension services. Subjective norms, perceived behaviour control, and farmers' perceived usefulness had a favourable and significant impact on the uptake of digital extension services. Research has shown that both perceived risks and household wealth have a favourable impact on adoption rates. However, it is important to note that barriers and enablers differ throughout the three nations in Southeast Asia due to variations in culture, customs, norms, and socioeconomic factors. The paper presents a strategy to enhance farmers' engagement in DES technology by enhancing digital infrastructure, facilitating farmer access to hardware devices through government subsidies or private sector assistance, ensuring equitable access for women and youth, and organising additional training for key stakeholders.

Enhancing sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture: Optimization of greenhouse energy consumption through microgrid systems utilizing advanced meta-heuristic algorithms

Greenhouses offer controlled microclimates that enable year-round cultivation, improving food security and agricultural productivity. However, greenhouses are energy-intensive, with heating accounting for a significant portion of the associated costs. This study explores optimal microgrid configurations, economic viability, and policy recommendations for sustainable greenhouse agriculture in Nigeria. An in-depth energy assessment of a reference greenhouse in a South Korean facility is conducted. Distinct climatic differences between South Korea and Nigeria are highlighted, emphasizing the need for tailored greenhouse designs and energy solutions. Shifting focus to Nigeria, this study investigates the feasibility of hybrid renewable energy systems with a focus on wind and solar power across six geopolitical zones in Nigeria. The analysis encompasses technical, economic, and policy aspects, providing a holistic perspective on renewable energy adoption. Notably, the study uses an advanced optimization model, Teaching and Learning–Based Optimization algorithm, to assess the net present cost and baseload supply reliability, offering valuable insights for investors and policymakers. The result indicates diverse energy requirements across Nigeria, with total monthly peak energy demands ranging from 5374.80 kWh in the Southeast to 17,115.76 kWh in the Northwest, and a notable variation in the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), with the lowest at $0.07327 in Kano. Specifically, in Ogun, the net present cost for the WT-PV-ESS system stood at $520,935.45, while the PV-ESS system cost was substantially lower at $500,444.41. This confirms the effectiveness of location-specific analysis and shows the suitability of photovoltaic–battery energy storage systems for Nigeria's diverse regions, with unique considerations for specific areas. Policy recommendations, including feed-in tariffs, renewable portfolio standards, net metering, research support, and market development, provide a holistic framework for the adoption of renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. Improving infrastructure, market access, and financing for smallholder farmers is integral for improving food security and standards of living in rural Nigeria. In conclusion, Nigeria can leverage renewable resources to revolutionize its energy and agriculture sectors, setting an example for a sustainable and resilient future.

How China's agribusiness achieves reciprocal symbiosis with farmers? A comparative analysis of the investment sector

AbstractAgribusiness facilitating market access for farmers is a key strategy for driving rural industrial rejuvenation in China. However, the persistent cooperative conundrum poses challenges to the integration of agribusiness and farmer interests. Utilizing goal planning analysis, this study delves into the profit‐driven behavioral logic of agribusiness and farmers to elucidate the conditions that influence their reciprocal symbiosis across various investment sectors. Through the crisp‐set qualitative comparative analysis method, this investigation parses data from 109 instances of agribusiness initiatives in rural areas, identifying four pivotal conditions conducive to reciprocal symbiosis: the farmers' information abundance (in production/processing and sales), incentive policies (in production), agribusiness's professional capabilities (in productive services), and the scale of demand (in productive services). Additionally, five principal sufficient conditions emerge: “Investment in production * information abundance of farmers * ~natural risk”, “Investment in production * natural risk * professional ability of farmers * profit sharing”, “Investment in processing and sales * information abundance of farmers * ~market risk * ~bidirectional specificity”, “Investment in processing and sales * bidirectional specificity * market risk * ~profit sharing”, and “Investment in productive services * professional ability of agribusiness * demand scale”. These findings illuminate the multifaceted interactions that underpin successful agribusiness‐farmer synergies [EconLit Citations: L23].

Peningkatan Kapabilitas Organisasi melalui Pendampingan Implementasi Gerakan Sumsel Mandiri Pangan (GSMP)

The South Sumatra Independent Food Movement (GSMP) Mentoring aims to improve the organizational capabilities of farmer communities in South Sumatra, through improving Organizational Capability. The main problem faced is the suboptimal field assistance related to plant and fish cultivation. A participatory approach is applied through socialization, formation of working groups, identification of needs, preparation of action plans, training, and technical assistance, as well as development of market access. The results of the study showed a significant increase in farmer welfare, marked by an increase in average income of 25%, an increase in food production of 20%, and strengthening local capacity. This program has also succeeded in increasing farmer access to agricultural technology and wider markets, in accordance with the theory of community empowerment, human capital, and market linkage. Recommendations for the sustainability of this program include the application of a participatory approach and ongoing assistance in other community empowerment initiatives

Can board funds, bank credit, and economic development improve food production? Evidence from South Asia

PurposeThis study investigates the impact of board funds, banking credit, and economic development on food production in the context of South Asian economies (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal).Design/methodology/approachThis study used data from the World Development Indicators covering the years 1991–2019. To investigate the relationship between the variables of the study, we employed the panel unit root test, panel cointegration test, cross-sectional dependence test, fully modified least squares (FMOLS), and panel dynamic least squares (DOLS) estimators.FindingsThe empirical results indicate that board funding significantly increase food production; however, banking credit had a negative impact. Furthermore, the findings indicate that economic development, Arable land, fertilizer consumption, and agricultural employment play a leading role in enhancing food production. The results of the Dumitrescu-Hurlin causality test also show substantiated the significance of the causal relationship among all variables.Practical implicationsSouth Asian countries should prioritize board funding, bank credit, and economic development in their long-term strategies. Ensuring financial access for farmers through micro-credit and public bank initiatives can spur agricultural productivity and economic growth.Originality/valueThis study is the first to combine board funding, banking credit, and economic development to better comprehend their potential impact on food production. Instead of using traditional approaches, this study focuses on these financial and developmental aspects as critical determinants for increasing food production, using evidence from South Asia.