Farmer Education Research Articles

Identification of antibiotic use patterns in poultry farms in the southwest region of Bangladesh

The study was conducted in southwestern Bangladesh, 90 chicken farmers were surveyed across three upazilas under three districts of southwestern Bangladesh to understand the practices and farmers' perceptions of antibiotic use in poultry farming. Data were collected through direct interviews of poultry farmers using a pre-tested interview schedule. The results showed that the highest percentage of farmers kept broilers in their farms (30.0%), followed by layer (28.9%), Sonali (26.7%) and cockerel (14.4%). Farmers marketed broilers at an average of 35 days with a live weight of 2187.04 kg bird-1 and egg production of layer chickens was 88.88%. The majority of chicken farmers (84.44%) used antibiotics, while 47.8% and 92.2% of farmers used probiotics and vitamin-mineral supplements for chicken. The use of antibiotics was suggested by various people, such as veterinary doctors (35.56%), animal health workers (23.33%), drug company representatives (20.00%) and self (5.56%). More than half of the chicken farmers (56.67%) applied antibiotics regularly and the highest percentage was supplied through water (82.2%). Half of chicken farmers used antibiotics for disease prevention (50.00%), followed by treatment of sick chickens (31.11%), growth promotion (2.22%) and both disease prevention & growth promotion (1.11%). The majority of the farmers did not know about the negative impacts of antibiotic use in poultry farming (87.8%), among the remaining 7.8% of farmers said it was carcinogenic, 3.3% stated it was toxicity in humans and only 1.1% said it had no effect of antibiotics in human health. It can be concluded that most of the chicken farmers are using antibiotics indiscriminately, which suggests proper education and awareness creation of poultry farmers to reduce the risks associated with antibiotic use. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(2): 1-8, December 2024

Climate Change and Agricultural Nitrogen Losses: A Review of Mitigating Strategies for Soil, Water, and Environmental Protection

Climate change presents considerable challenges to agricultural systems, particularly regarding nitrogen (N) dynamics within ecosystems. While nitrogen is crucial for plant growth, its overuse in agriculture results in environmental issues such as water pollution, soil degradation, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. This review summarizes current understanding of the interactions between climate change and agricultural nitrogen losses, emphasizing their implications for soil, water, and environmental quality. We explore various strategies to improve nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) while minimizing environmental losses. These strategies include adopting precision agriculture techniques, using cover crops and crop rotation, implementing controlled-release fertilizers, and integrating agro ecological practices. We also discuss the importance of policy frameworks and farmer education in promoting sustainable nitrogen management. By addressing the complex challenges posed by climate change, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of effective practices that can protect soil health, safeguard water resources, and contribute to a more resilient agricultural future. Through coordinated efforts among researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, we can reduce nitrogen losses and enhance the sustainability of agricultural systems in a changing climate.

Newcastle disease awareness and vaccination practices among indigenous chicken farmers in the Biharamulo district of Tanzania

BackgroundIndigenous chicken production is a significant economic activity in rural sub-Saharan Africa. These chickens are naturally resilient to unfavourable environmental conditions such as poor-quality feed and infections, making them ideal for village conditions. However, Newcastle disease is a major challenge to village chicken production. Since the chickens are kept in a free-range system, they are more likely to catch the disease from the environment and spread it throughout the whole village. Vaccination is one of the main strategies for controlling Newcastle disease. However, various socio-economic and local environmental issues impede vaccination efforts. The study examined the awareness of and vaccination of indigenous chickens against Newcastle disease in rural areas of the Biharamulo district in northern Tanzania. It sought to understand the extent of knowledge among farmers about the disease, the availability of vaccines, and the factors influencing vaccination uptake. Data collection methods included household interviews, focus group talks, and key informant interviews.ResultsThe findings reveal both challenges and opportunities for improving Newcastle disease control and promoting sustainable poultry farming in the region. While most farmers reported being aware of Newcastle disease, many did not vaccinate their chickens. Those who vaccinated their chickens did so irregularly or used herbal medicines as vaccines. Various socio-demographic aspects, including the age and education level of the chicken owner, awareness of the disease, production experience, and previous experience with Newcastle disease outbreaks, determined the probability of vaccination. The farmers identified limited information about Newcastle disease vaccination as a major constraint on vaccinating their flocks.ConclusionThe study underscores the need for targeted interventions to improve Newcastle disease control among indigenous chicken farmers in rural areas of Biharamulo district. Addressing these challenges requires strengthening farmer education, expanding access to vaccines, and enhancing extension services. Promoting community-based vaccination programs and awareness campaigns can help bridge these gaps, contributing to sustainable poultry farming and improved livelihoods in the region.

Indigenous Knowledge on Shifting Cultivation and Sustainable Agriculture

Indigenous knowledge on shifting mountainous farm management of Arfak farmers is the original culture of Arfak people, held firm passed down to generations. This can be seen in the agricultural activities of Arfak farmers who are still applying indigenous knowledge to this day. Modernization can affect the existence and can also be a threat to the indigenous knowledge of Arfak farmers. The low level of education of farmers, the oral transfer of indigenous knowledge and the absence of written documentation of indigenous knowledge are the causes of indigenous knowledge being swept away in the flow of modernization. Apart from that, the existence of indigenous knowledge is increasingly threatened by the development of plantations and urban areas. Especially the increasing demand for land for plantations, infrastructure, settlements and mining. Based on data from the West Papua Agriculture Service, in 2017 plantation development reached 53,806 ha and mining reached 89,256 ha in the Arfak Mountains. Agricultural modernization and industrialization will certainly reduce shifting cultivation and the value of indigenous knowledge. The high biodiversity makes Arfak Mountains a conservation area and makes this region a center of highland vegetable production in West Papua. In 2021, agricultural sector contributed 33.61% to growth Arfak Mountains Gross Regional Domestic Product. This study aims to describe how Arfak farmers apply their indigenous knowledge, namely the concept of igya ser hanjob in managing land to support sustainable agricultural activities. This research uses qualitative approach with inductive methods and case study techniques to document the knowledge and experience Arfak farmers selected with the snowball technique. Data was collected through interviews and observations. This study found that sustainable land management in agricultural activities is based on the ecological concept of the Arfak people, namely igya ser hanjob. This concept regulates appropriate management areas for agriculture and ensures environment sustainability and family food. This ecological concept was socialized for generations Arfak farming family. However, in reality there is a threat of landslides in agricultural areas due to socio-economic and ecological changes in mountainous farming are of Arfak community.

Crop Residues: The Unseen Threat to Environmental Sustainability

Crop residue management (CRM) is a critical aspect of sustainable agriculture, addressing significant environmental and economic challenges. In India, the widespread practice of burning crop residues leads to severe air pollution, soil degradation, and health hazards. This paper explores the importance of CRM in environmental conservation, its economic potential, and the sustainable practices available for managing crop residues. It highlights the detrimental effects of residue burning, such as the release of harmful gases (CO2, CH4, NH3), and the subsequent loss of soil nutrients and biomass. The paper also discusses alternative CRM strategies, including composting, mulching, bioenergy production, and biochar utilization, which offer solutions to mitigate environmental damage while improving agricultural productivity and economic returns. The findings underscore the need for integrated approaches involving government policies, technological innovations, and farmer education to promote sustainable CRM practices across India.

Combating Agri-Pests in Jordan: The Role of International Law in Preventing Invasive Spread Through Global Trade to Advance Sustainable Development Goals

Objectives: This paper examines the role of international law in preventing the invasive spread of agricultural pests through global trade in Jordan, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15 (Life on Land), which emphasizes halting biodiversity loss and promoting sustainable land use. The research evaluates pest management strategies based on effectiveness, cost-efficiency, ease of implementation, compliance with international regulations, and sustainability. Theoretical Framework: Grounded in international trade and environmental agreements, including the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), the research highlights the role of global frameworks in harmonizing pest control practices, addressing regulatory gaps, and fostering international collaboration. Method: A multi-criteria decision-making model using the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) Method was employed. Five strategic alternatives were assessed against five critical criteria using data collected through expert surveys and literature reviews. The decision matrix was normalized, weighted, and analyzed to identify the most effective strategies. Results and Discussion: Results show that increasing research and development on pest control is the most effective strategy, followed by enhancing inspection and quarantine procedures. Promoting farmer education and training ranks third, highlighting the importance of local capacity building. Strengthening international trade regulations and fostering collaboration ranked lower, revealing regulatory gaps. Research Implications: The study provides actionable insights for integrating international law with sustainable pest management, emphasizing capacity-building, resource allocation, and enhanced inspection systems. Originality/Value: By combining international law with TOPSIS, the research presents a novel framework for addressing invasive pests in Jordan, contributing to biodiversity conservation and global agricultural sustainability.

Unveiling the effect of social networks on farmers' diversified energy-saving behaviors in the Tibetan plateau region of China.

An improved comprehension of the factors that influence farmers' diversified energy-saving behaviors makes significant sense for enacting potent energy policies and curbing rural energy consumption. This paper investigated the effect of social networks on diversified energy-saving behaviors adopted by farmers in the Tibetan Plateau region of China, by establishing a generalized Poisson regression model. A total of 480 farmers were randomly interviewed. The results indicate that farmers' social networks were relatively abundant in the study area, and the diversified energy-saving behaviors exhibited good performance at the overall level. Farmers' social networks are of paramount importance in the execution of diversified energy-saving behaviors. In particular, the scale and frequency of social networks are instrumental in the success of the implementation of diversified energy-saving behaviors. Farmers' sociodemographic characteristics, including gender, education level, household size, and residential housing area, also facilitate their adoption of diversified energy-saving behaviors. The findings contribute to the further exploration of the value of social networks in determining environmental actions in rural areas and provide an effective basis for policy formulation to save energy consumption in similar regions in other countries.

Impact of long-term cyanotoxin exposure on cattle: Biochemical, histological, and oxidative stress assessment

Background and Aim: Cyanobacterial blooms, driven by anthropogenic and climatic changes, pose significant ecological and health threats. This study investigates the long-term effects of microcystins (MCs), potent cyanotoxins, on cattle at Lake des Oiseaux, a Ramsar-listed wetland in Algeria. Aligning with the “One Health” framework, the research evaluates the biochemical, histological, and oxidative stress impacts of MCs on livestock as environmental sentinels. Materials and Methods: A herd of 40 cattle (20 exposed and 20 non-exposed) was studied during the summer bloom period of 2019. Blood and liver samples were analyzed to assess biochemical markers (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, etc.), histopathological changes, and oxidative stress parameters (GPx, CAT, SOD, LPO and GSH). Results: Exposed cattle exhibited significant elevations in liver enzymes and oxidative stress markers, indicating hepatic inflammation and redox imbalance. Histological analysis revealed macrovacuolar steatosis, fibrosis, and bile duct dilatation. Antioxidant enzyme activities (GPx, CAT and SOD) were reduced, with notable depletion of GSH levels and increased lipid peroxidation. These findings reflect the cumulative cytotoxic effects of MC exposure. Non-exposed cattle showed no such changes. Conclusion: Long-term MC exposure disrupts liver function and induces oxidative stress in cattle, implicating significant risks for both animal and human health. The bioaccumulation of cyanotoxins in livestock emphasizes the urgent need for preventive measures, including water monitoring, restricted livestock access to contaminated sites, and farmer education. These strategies are vital to mitigate risks under the “One Health” approach, ensuring sustainable livestock and public health. Keywords: cattle health, cyanobacterial blooms, environmental pollution, lake des oiseaux, microcystin, one health, oxidative stress.

Evidence of human exposure and associated risk factors to Rift Valley fever in selected districts of Central and Western Zambia.

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is an important viral zoonotic disease that not only affects ruminants but causes serious morbidity and mortality in humans. In humans, its symptoms range from mild flu-like signs to a severe form such as retinal damage, meningoencephalitis to haemorrhagic fever. In this study, 202 human serum samples were collected from central and western parts of Zambia and tested for RVF-specific antibodies using a commercially available ELISA kit. A pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data for determining hypothesised risk factors for exposure to RVF. The participants enrolled in this study, were only those who are at high risk of RVF infection and were in close contact with animals and animal products. The study revealed an overall seropositivity of 9.90%, occupationally distributed as 16.67% among slaughter house workers, 14.41% among livestock farmers, and 0% among the others (i.e., students, butchery, and farm workers). The prevalence was highest (19.23%) in Sesheke district found in the western part of Zambia, while Chisamba district in central Zambia had the lowest prevalence (1.41). Movement of animals in search of greener pastures was identified as a risk factor to being RVF-seropositive. This suggests that there was silent circulation of the virus in the interepidemic period in the study areas. Therefore, this study recommends that public education of livestock farmers, public health workers, slaughterhouse workers, communities, livestock and veterinary staff needs to be enhanced to increase awareness and preparedness for RVF outbreak in Zambia.

Effectiveness of Salam Contracts in Improving Farmers’ Personal Finance in Indonesia: Opportunities and Constraints.

Abstract Purpose - This research aims to explore the effectiveness of Salam contracts in improving farmers' personal finance through a qualitative case study. Methodology - This case study approach is taken to understand personal perspectives and experiences regarding the implementation of the Salam contract in farmers' daily personal finance, particularly in the context of their economic welfare and the challenges faced in their life. Findings - The research findings reveal that Salam contracts have great potential in helping farmers obtain upfront capital and price stability. However, there are various obstacles, such as limited knowledge about the Salam contract, production risks due to crop failure, and lack of infrastructure that supports modern agricultural technology. Practical Implications - Interviews also showed interest in Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies that can improve productivity, although challenges in their application remain. Originality - The results of this study are expected to provide practical insights for the development of Salam contracts in the context of agricultural activities by considering technological support and education for farmers. It is believed that farmers’ ability to improve their financial administration would enhance their personal finance capability. Keywords: Salam, Farmers, Case Study, Personal Finance, IoT, AI

Investigating Risk of Organic Rice Production in Kapanewon Prambanan: Comparative Study with Non-Organic Rice Farming

The transition from conventional farming to organic continues to increase over time. Organic farming, especially organic rice, is becoming something that farmers are interested in because of higher prices and increased consumer demand for organic food products. However, the transition to conventional farming will eventually be followed by the emergence of risks in farming production. This study investigates the factors influencing the production and production risks of organic and non-organic rice farming in Sleman Regency. A total of 45 farmers were sampled in this study, which was determined by purposive sampling. Data collection was carried out by interview method. The Just and Pope approach of production risk is used in analyzing the determinants of production and production risk. The analysis results show that the membership period in farmer groups, land area, education, and manure significantly affects farming production. At the same time, organic rice farming is proven to produce higher production than non-organic. The factor that significantly increases production risk is the length of membership in farmer groups. Farmers who join farmer groups have the potential to face higher production risks. This research implies that it is important for the government to provide support by empowering farmer groups to support organic rice farming. Intensive assistance can be carried out to ensure that the role of the chairperson and members of the farmer group functions optimally.

Sustainable pest management strategies for agriculture in Pakistan: a review

The agriculture sector of Pakistan’s economy faces significant challenges, including water scarcity, land degradation, climate change, and pest infestations, all of which threaten crop production and rural livelihoods. Historically, pest management has heavily relied on chemical pesticides, such as organophosphates and pyrethroids. While these provide short-term solutions, their extensive use has led to environmental degradation, health risks, and the development of resistance in cotton and vegetable crops. In response, integrated pest management (IPM) has emerged as an ecological approach that combines biological, cultural, mechanical, and selective chemical controls to regulate pest populations while minimizing environmental damage. This study reviews pest control practices in Pakistan, with a particular focus on the National IPM Programme and Farmer Field Schools. Successful programs under these initiatives have reduced pesticide use by 87% and increased crop yields by 10-25%. Case studies highlight the effectiveness of biological controls, such as Trichogramma wasps and Beauveria bassiana fungi, which have resulted in reduced pesticide use and yield improvements of up to 18%. However, challenges persist, including farmer education, a lack of facilities for maintaining biological control agents, and climate-induced shifts in pest populations. The study also emphasizes the potential of precision agriculture technologies, such as drones, remote sensing, and AI-driven monitoring systems, for pest surveillance and targeted interventions. Policy recommendations include providing institutional support, enhancing farmer capacity, investing in biopesticides and genetically modified organisms, and fostering collaboration among government agencies, research organizations, and farmers to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of agriculture in Pakistan.

SHIFTS FROM COCONUT MONO CROP TO COCONUT MIXED CROPS GENERATE SUSTAINABLE INCOME TO THE FARMERS” – CASE STUDIES DAKSHINA KANNADA DISTRICTS

Coconut cultivation, when integrated with areca nut, banana, pepper, and pineapple in Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka, forms a mixed cropping system that provides farmers with diversified income sources throughout the year. This practice not only improves farm income but also ensures greater economic resilience by mitigating risks associated with market fluctuations, pests, and climate variability. The study investigates the sustainability of such mixed cropping systems, focusing on economic benefits, productivity, and the environmental advantages they offer. Recent data highlights that farmers in Dakshina Kannada who adopt mixed cropping report consistent year-round income, enhanced soil fertility, and better water retention. The intercropping system ensures staggered harvesting periods, with crops like banana and pineapple providing early returns, while coconut and pepper offer long-term profitability. The study concludes with recommendations for scaling up these practices through policy interventions, farmer education, and improved market access

Profitability of Organic Versus Conventional Rice Production: An Evidence from South Asia

Rice, a staple and cash crop in South Asia, is vital for small-scale farmers, but concerns about the profitability of organic farming challenge its adoption despite its environmental benefits. The present study was conducted in the Rice-Wheat zone of three South Asian countries to make a comparison of profit efficiency in rice production under organic and conventional farming systems and to examine factors affecting profit efficiency. A multistage sampling technique was employed to collect cross-sectional data. Profit efficiency was determined by employing Cobb Douglas's functional form of stochastic profit frontier. Results show that the mean profit efficiency of organic rice growers is 0.89 less than conventional rice growers (0.910) in Pakistan. The mean profit efficiencies of organic growers are higher than conventional growers in Nepal and Bangladesh. Education and the role of the extension department are important factors in increasing the efficiency of organic and conventional farming while access to credit and experience in rice farming are significant in reducing inefficiencies in conventional rice farming. The study concludes that the education of farmers, the role of extension services, and easy credit access are key policy variables to improve profit efficiency.

Assessing the Effectiveness of Value Chain Management in Enhancing the Competitive Advantage of Farmer Producer Organizations in Tamil Nadu

This study investigated the effectiveness of Value Chain Management in enhancing the competitiveness of FPOs within the agricultural sector of Tamil Nadu, with a focus on millets and oilseeds. The research aimed to analyze factors influencing FPOs' competitive advantage, map the agricultural value chain and identify underlying factors affecting successful VCM implementation. Porter's Diamond Model was employed to analyze competitive advantage, while Factor Score Regression (FSR) was used to identify factors influencing VCM implementation. The study revealed the competitive advantages of the North-Western and North-Eastern agroclimatic zones, driven by favourable factor conditions, robust demand, supportive industries and strategic firm strategies, particularly exemplified by FPOs. FSR analysis validated the importance of factors such as product diversification, marketing, quality assurance, financial management, partnerships, infrastructure, leadership and farmer education in driving VCM for FPO sustainability. These findings provided valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to enhance competitiveness, sustainability and economic growth in Tamil Nadu's agricultural landscape.

Occurrence and levels of aflatoxin contamination in poultry feed ingredients and layer mash in farms and feed mills in Ghana

The study assessed the incidence and contamination levels of total aflatoxins (TAF) and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in feed ingredients and compound layer mash from six regions in Ghana. Thirty-five facilities comprising commercial poultry farms and feed mills were used in the study. There was 100% incidence of TAF and AFB1 in the samples of layer mash and feed ingredients (maize, soybean meal and wheat bran). The TAF of layer mash, maize and soybean meal (55.2, 54.0 and 47.6 µgkg-1, respectively) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than TAF of wheat bran (28.6 µgkg-1). Most of the layer mash, soybean meal and wheat bran samples had TAF concentrations exceeding the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) maximum limit of 20 µgkg-1. Mean TAF concentrations in layer mash and maize samples were strongly and positively correlated (r = 0.50; P < 0.018). Layer mash, maize and soybean meal had significantly higher (P< 0.05) AFB1 concentrations (33.0, 35.1, 26.5 µgkg-1, respectively) when compared to wheat bran (13.8 µgkg-1). Most layer mash and maize samples exceeded the European Commission’s maximum limits of 20 and 50 µgkg-1 respectively for AFB1. Mean AFB1 concentrations in layer mash and maize samples were strongly and positively correlated (r = 0.54; P = 0.01). High aflatoxins contamination of poultry feed is a persistent problem in Ghana. The use of toxin-binders, education of poultry farmers and feed millers on the implication of aflatoxins contamination in poultry feeds and the enforcement of regulation by Ghana’s food and drugs authority is recommended.

Soil Fertility Management Practices of Smallholder Farming Communities in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

This study assessed soil fertility management practices among smallholder farming communities in five Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. A total of 150 respondents were selected using multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, capturing information on socioeconomic characteristics, soil fertility practices, and challenges. The results showed that 93.33% of respondents in Lafia LGA and 96.67% in Obi LGA practiced soil conservation methods, with the most common techniques being cover cropping, used by 86.67% of farmers in Obi, and organic manure application, adopted by 100% of respondents in Akwanga, Doma, and Nassarawa Eggon LGAs. Chemical fertilizer usage was relatively lower, ranging from 6.67% in Obi to 50% in Lafia. Major challenges faced by farmers included inadequate knowledge of soil management, identified by 100% of respondents in Akwanga, and high fertilizer costs, reported by 70% of respondents in Lafia and Obi LGAs. Education played a significant role in adopting soil fertility practices, as respondents with tertiary education were more likely to employ modern techniques like conservation tillage and agroforestry. Despite these practices, limited access to organic materials and technical knowledge hindered broader adoption of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM). The study highlighted the need for tailored interventions, such as farmer education and capacity building, to improve soil health and agricultural productivity. These findings provided a foundation for developing policies that promote sustainable farming practices, ensuring long-term food security in Nasarawa State and Nigeria as a whole.

FARM TO FORK STRATEGY: A SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION FOR RURAL COMMUNITIES

The Farm to Fork (F2F) strategy, a key pillar of the European Green Deal, offers a comprehensive and sustainable solution for food systems, with particular benefits for rural communities. This strategy emphasizes the transformation of food production, processing, distribution, and consumption to achieve environmental sustainability, economic resilience, and food security. As rural communities often face unique challenges—such as limited access to markets, declining populations, and environmental degradation—the F2F strategy provides an integrated approach to addressing these issues. By promoting shorter supply chains, organic farming, reduced pesticide use, and climate-resilient agricultural practices, the F2F strategy can enhance rural livelihoods while contributing to global climate and health goals. This paper examines the economic, environmental, and social impacts of the F2F strategy on rural communities, and highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with its implementation. It argues that, while the strategy holds great promise for promoting sustainable rural development, its success depends on adequate financial support, infrastructure investments, and education for farmers and stakeholders.

Analysis of Effects of Financial Risk on the Welfare Status of Cocoa Farmers in Southwest Nigeria

Cocoa farming supports rural livelihoods, yet farmers face financial risks that threaten their welfare. Thus, this study examines the impact of financial risk on the welfare of cocoa farmers in Southwest Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling method was employed to select 396 respondents from two states known for high cocoa production and certification program involvement. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a Seemingly Unrelated Regression Equation (SURE) model to determine the effects of financial risk on welfare indicators such as household income, food security, and poverty status. The findings reveal that 74.5% of respondents were classified as non-poor, with certification program adopters and non-adopters showing similar poverty levels. Key variables influencing welfare included farm size, cooperative membership, education, and financial risk. While larger farms and cooperative memberships positively impacted household income and food security, financial risk was associated with both increased income and heightened food insecurity and poverty risk. The study recommends the need for targeted interventions to mitigate financial risks, including expanded access to credit, financial literacy training, and cooperative support.

Determinants of Climate-Smart Agriculture Adoption Among Rice Farmers: Enhancing Sustainability

The use of conventional farming methods, excessive reliance on fertilizers and inputs, and abrupt shifts in climate have raised significant concerns regarding global agricultural production, particularly in developing countries like Nepal. Agriculture products such as rice hold significant importance in Nepal’s agriculture and economy, serving as a staple food and a crucial source of livelihood for its population. Sustainable cultivation and enhancing productivity are imperative for ensuring food security and economic stability in the country. Adoption of climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices can minimize detrimental effects, promote sustainability, and enhance resilience towards climate change. We surveyed 200 farmers across four municipalities in the Chitwan District of Nepal to explore the prevalence and socio-economic drivers of the adoption of CSA practices, which include stress-tolerant varieties, efficient water management, and diversified cropping, among others. The results revealed that the adoption of pest-resistant plant varieties was a common CSA practice in the study area. Logistic regression results revealed that the adoption of CSA practices increases with an increase in the education of farmers and membership of climate-related organizations. Similarly, the adoption of CSA practices is negatively associated with an increase in farm size, farmers’ farming experience, and their access to credit facilities. Short-term courses and training could be initiated as a complement to formal education to maximize the adoption of CSA practices. Similarly, climate and farmer-related organizations should be further strengthened to maximize their capacity to facilitate more farmers and provide need-based, timely information flow. This study highlights the potential of CSA to promote sustainability and enhance resilience to climate change, but also identifies barriers such as credit access and the need for tailored policy interventions. Our findings contribute to understanding the dynamics of CSA adoption in vulnerable agricultural settings and can guide future strategies to promote sustainability and climate resilience in smallholder farming communities in developing countries.