Agricultural Extension Research Articles

A Scale to Measure Impact of Front Line Demonstrations on Food Security and Climate Resilience

Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) were established to provide essential agricultural education and support to farmers at the grassroots level. These centers play a crucial role in disseminating advanced agricultural technologies and practices to improve the productivity and sustainability of farming. Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) play a crucial role in agricultural extension programs of KVKs, providing a platform to demonstrate and validate new technologies, practices, and innovations directly in farmers' fields. They are an integral part of agricultural extension services, facilitating the smooth and effective transfer of knowledge and technology from research institutions to the farming community. The present study was conducted to develop a scale to measure the impact of Front Line Demonstrations on food security and climate resilience. We collected 107 statements, out of these 42 statements were selected through relevancy test. Out of 42 statements, 28 statements were retained on the final scale. Reliability and validity of the scale indicates its consistency and precision of the results.

The Lamella Ostium Extent Mucosa (LOEM) system: a new classification and pilot study for endoscopic sinus surgery

Abstract Purpose This study proposes the Lamella Ostium Extent Mucosa (LOEM) system as a compact and user-friendly classification for endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), based on surgical bone extension and mucosal management, aiming to resolve inconsistencies in describing surgical techniques and extension levels, and to enhance comparability of outcomes in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Methods LOEM uses a lettering system representing a specific topographical level: L identifies the lamellae, O the ostia, E the opening of the sinus walls, and M the mucosal approach. Eleven CRS surgical cases were independently evaluated by seven rhinologists following a Delphi method in two consecutive rounds. Consensus was assessed using Cohen's kappa. Results A substantial agreement was found among the experts (κ = 0.77) in the first round, although the M item only showed fair agreement (κ = 0.37). Clarifications for this item were given in the second round, after which, the overall agreement increased to κ = 0.81 and to κ = 0.79 for the M item. A decrease in agreement from substantial to moderate for O and E items in the second round was found. Test–retest analysis showed an almost perfect agreement (92.96%, κ = 0.82). In this study, a web-based app is provided to assist with the regular use of the LOEM system. Conclusions The LOEM system provides a compact, comprehensive code for ESS, integrating anatomical and functional aspects to represent surgical techniques described so far. This system may be suitable for facilitating communication between surgeons and collecting robust labeled data, hopefully leading to further standardization and validation of surgical approaches in future CRS studies.

Intensifying homestead climate-smart agriculture and the challenges to its wider adoption in Azuari watershed, Northwest Ethiopia

IntroductionThe adoption of climate-smart agriculture practices (CSAPs) at the plot level is a promising yet underutilized strategy in Ethiopia, where subsistence farming predominates. This study investigates the factors influencing the intensity of CSAPs on homesteads and identifies key barriers to their broader adoption.MethodsQuantitative data were collected through household surveys. Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) analysis was employed to examine the relationship between the independent variables and farmers' decisions to intensify CSAPs.ResultsThe findings reveal that slope gradient, extension contacts, farming experience, dependency ratio-induced labor, and livestock diversity significantly impact farmers' decisions to enhance CSAPs. Major barriers include insecure land tenure, poor management of open grazing, labor-intensive practices, and limited access to agricultural inputs.DiscussionTo promote the widespread implementation of CSAPs, it is imperative that these variables are prioritized in agricultural extension policies. Addressing these barriers is essential for enhancing the adoption of CSAPs, which will significantly contribute to sustainable agricultural development in Ethiopia.

Bridging the agricultural extension gap: Insights from the teaching-learning theories and models

This article explores various theories and models that inform the design of teaching-learning frameworks to bridge the agricultural extension gap. It identifies the complexities surrounding the agricultural extension gap, emphasizing the need for a multi-theoretical approach to effectively address the diverse needs of farmers. The theories reviewed include Multimedia Learning Theory, Adult Learning Theory, Social Learning Theory, Theory of Planned Behavior, Social Exchange Theory (SET), Resource-Based View (RBV), Actor-Network Theory (ANT), Information Systems Success Model, Contextual Integrity Theory, and Task-Technology Fit (TTF). The models discussed include the Diffusion of Innovations Model, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). By synthesizing these theories and models, the article provides a comprehensive understanding of how they can enhance agricultural extension services.

Site-dependent carbon and greenhouse gas balances of five fen and bog soils after rewetting and establishment of Phalaris arundinacea paludiculture

Peatlands cover 3 % of the Danish land area, but drainage of these areas contributes to approximately 25 % of the total agricultural greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Paludiculture, defined as agriculture on wet or rewetted peatlands, has been proposed as a strategy to mitigate GHG emissions while keeping up production. However, little is known about the net GHG effects during establishment and how it is influenced by soil biogeochemical conditions. In this study, we determined annual carbon balances of five Danish peatlands, three fens and two bogs, for the first year of cultivation with reed canary grass (RCG) with two annual cuts in a mesocosm set-up under controlled conditions. Biomass yields were highly variable, ranging between 0.8 and 7.4 t dry matter (DM) ha−1 yr−1, and significantly higher on fen peat soils. Ecosystem respiration (Reco) fluxes of CO2 were naturally highest from sites with high biomass establishment. Methane emissions were site-specific, ranging between 0.03 and 1.85 t CH4 (CO2eq ha−1 yr−1), and affected by biomass growth, as well as bulk density and the iron content within soil. Nitrous oxide fluxes were negligible, despite nitrogen (N) fertilisation with 200 kg N ha−1 yr−1. Driven by net primary production (NPP) we found that the fen sites were GHG sinks, with a global warming potential (GWP) of −1.3 to −11.5 t CO2eq ha−1 yr−1 during the first year of rewetting and RCG establishment. The bogs remained sources of carbon (5.3 t CO2eq ha−1 yr−1). Our results highlighted that the nutrient-rich Danish fen peatlands showed a potential for GHG mitigation by paludiculture under extensive agricultural management, while this was not the case for the bog sites due to poor biomass establishment. In conclusion, we found the highest GHG mitigation potential by rewetting and RCG paludiculture on nutrient-rich fen peatlands.

Preferences for sustainable intensification: Do agricultural interventions matter? Plot-level evidence from Senegal

To what extent do agricultural support programs that promote modern intensification shape farmers’ incentives to adopt sustainable agricultural management practices? We answer this question by examining the effects of receiving input subsidies and agricultural extension services on Senegalese smallholder farmers’ preferences for crop diversification, crop rotation, rotational grazing, fallowing, and mulching crop residues. The empirical investigation is based on the 2020/2021 Annual Agricultural Survey (AAS) and uses two identification strategies: selection on observables and the Abadie-Imbens matching approach to account for differences in farmers’ socio-economic backgrounds and biophysical characteristics of plots and the likelihood of benefiting from input subsidies and agricultural extension services. We find heterogeneous responses to extension services and input subsidies. In particular, we find that receiving agricultural extension services is associated with a higher likelihood of adopting crop rotation, rotational grazing and fallow. On the other hand, the effect of receiving fertiliser subsidies is significantly negative for these three practices. The results also indicate that receiving extension services is associated with a lower likelihood of adopting crop diversification, and receiving seed subsidies is associated with a higher likelihood of mulching crop residues. As international research and development organizations consider sustainable intensification as a means to effectively address soil degradation and achieve greater agricultural productivity in sub-Saharan Africa, our findings call for the design of agricultural policies to support smallholder agriculture that take into account unintended consequences in terms of disincentives for the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices.

Effectiveness of Farmer’s Training in Nepal: A Review

Farmer's training is a method of agricultural extension service delivery. This paper through a thorough review of literature aims to access the effectiveness of farmer training programs in Nepal for transfer of knowledge, creation of awareness, adoption of improved practices and technologies, and improvement in farmer efficiency and farm productivity.

Spatial accessibility modeling of agricultural extension services among rural smallholder macadamia farmers in Neno district, Malawi

ABSTRACT Purpose Agricultural extension services (AES) are vital for enhancing smallholder farmer productivity and food security in Malawi. However, long travel times and staff shortages hinder access to extension services from reaching many rural farmers. This study investigates travel times required by Neno Smallholder Macadamia Cooperative (NESMAC) lead farmers to access AES in Neno district, which is crucial for their role in training other farmers. Methodology We use a cost-friction algorithm (AccessMod) and qualitative interviews to examine travel time to NESMAC's central meeting locations (NCMLs) under four scenarios: walking, bicycling, motorcycle, and vehicle. We also assess the one-hour catchment area for each scenario. Findings Our findings reveal inequalities among NESMAC lead farmers in reaching NCMLs, with travel times ranging from 0.1 to 789 min when walking, improving to 0.1–57 min with motorized transport. The catchment area for reaching NCMLs within a 1-hour travel time increases by 19.5% with bicycles and 100% with motorized transportation, compared to 3.7% when walking. Qualitative data highlights difficulties lead farmers face due to poor infrastructure and inadequate extension service providers. Practical Implications Providing bicycles to lead farmers and motorcycles to extension staff can significantly expand NESMAC's coverage and enable more farmer trainings. Theoretical Implications Our research contributes to the literature on extension and advisory systems, emphasising the importance of evaluating travel times for lead farmers. The cost-friction analysis of travel scenarios provides insights into AES accessibility obstacles and potential solutions.

Critical Delay Factors Affecting Construction Project Performance – A Contemporary Perspective

The construction industry plays a crucial role in India's fiscal targets amid a growing emphasis on infrastructure development. Despite extensive project management knowledge, persistent delays afflict 33% of projects, averaging a 47-month setback as of August 2021. This study seeks to pinpoint Critical Delay Factors (CDFs) in contemporary construction projects, drawing from 59 attributes identified through literature and expert input. A questionnaire survey gauged expert opinions on the impact of these attributes. Factor analysis unveiled underlying constructs, revealing seven CDFs, and the Relative Importance Index (RII) ranked factors by significance. Across professional roles and regional distinctions, ANOVA demonstrated consistent CDF evaluations. These findings are anticipated to guide project stakeholders in prioritizing factors for effective delay management, promoting successful project outcomes.

Effectiveness of the role of agricultural extension workers in clove cultivation in Enrekang Regency (Case study in Buntu Barana Village, Curio District, Enrekang Regency)

Extension workers are among the contributors to agricultural activities. They are to provide guidance and knowledge through the latest information or innovation to enhance farming systems, which ultimately increases crop yields. Additionally, extension workers pursue to transform the behavior of farmers, for instance, their ability to adapt to continually changing situations and conditions. This research aims to analyze the role and effectiveness of agricultural extension in clove plantations in Enrekang Regency. The research was carried out in Buntu Barana Village, Curio District, Enrekang Regency, with 100 farmers as respondents. The results revealed that the extension process employing a group approach method attended by farmers and extension workers who provide knowledge regarding clove cultivation, starting from seeding, maintenance and fertilization, pest control, and postharvest, was successful, meeting farmers’ expectations. In this case, the instructor carries out his role well and effectively. The roles of agricultural instructors are facilitators, communicators, and motivators in the clove cultivation in Buntu Barana Village, Curio District, and they have been considered by the farmers effective in carrying out all roles, especially in clove cultivation activities.

Quantitative Insights into Extension Advisory Services: Enhancing Rural Livelihoods through Evidence-based Analysis

Aims: Agricultural extension advisory services (EAS) aim to facilitate development of agriculture and rural sector through transfer of agricultural information and technology. However various literature were published in different forums on various challenges faced by the EAS agents in disseminating effective service to farmer. Hence, this study was taken to evaluate various factors of EAS impacting agriculture development to benefit farming community and for effective policy framing. Study Design: Exploratory-diagnostic research design was employed in the study. Place and Duration of Study: Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. January 2012 to January 2024. Methodology: A meta-analysis of selected EAS articles from international data base (Scopus) was carried out with an objective to identify the variables explaining EAS and analysing the relationship between the variables for policy making. Results: On analysing the variables of EAS, four major factors of EAS were identified namely, EAS Purpose, EAS Strategies, EAS Process and EAS Product. The study also revealed that studies focusing on Agricultural and Rural credit were very few, which play a vital role in up scaling of farmers and agricultural sector. The study revealed the need for framing EAS policy for effective facilitation of Agricultural and Rural Credit for the development of agricultural and rural sector. Conclusion: The study found that while the EAS process included agricultural and rural credit support, its focus was primarily on transferring agricultural information. However, the progress of the agricultural sector relies heavily on farmers' financial capacity to address modern challenges. Integrating EAS with improved credit access could help overcome barriers to scaling up agricultural and rural development. This underscores the need for policies that align EAS with credit facilitation to promote long-term sustainability for farmers.

Agricultural Extension Agents Knowledge of the Recommendations for Planting Jasmine Crop at El- Gharbia Governorate

Agricultural Extension Agents Knowledge of the Recommendations for Planting Jasmine Crop at El- Gharbia Governorate

Multifaceted Assessment of Agricultural Extension in Conflict Affected Areas of Mindanao, Philippines

Agricultural extension in conflict affected areas has received limited research attention. Yet agricultural extension undertaken within a group–based facilitation framework can have many benefits via livelihood improvement, human and social capital development. In this paper, an extension model adapted for conflict affected areas is briefly described and then assessed from multiple viewpoints – physical, economic, lifestyle, social capital and environmental. This was done in two case study sites in conflict affected areas of Mindanao, Philippines. Major positive physical, economic and lifestyle changes were revealed at both case study sites, as were changes in knowledge, attitude, skills, and aspirations and social capital. Some positive environmental aspects were also noted. Income and savings were up 64 and 108 percent respectively, with those income changes being reflected in additional expenditures on basic items such as food clothing and education. Knowledge, attitudes skills and aspirations (which can be regarded as intermediate steps towards livelihood improvement) all increased substantially. Various social capital indicators were judged to have improved. From an environmental perspective, there were decreases in charcoal production and slash and burn activity. Tree planting and soil fertility increased. Most of these assessment parameters, but especially social capital with its implication for trust and human interaction, are relevant to peace building. With the passage of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, there is expected to be a strong increase within the Philippines and internationally in funding the promotion of agricultural livelihood activities in Mindanao. The multifaced assessment of benefits is somewhat unique and the resulting quantification of the benefits demonstrates that additional funding and more diverse applications could be warranted.

Digital tools and welfare: adoption determinants among ginger producers in Southern and Central Ethiopia

IntroductionLow adoption rates of digital tools in agricultural extension services persisted among smallholder ginger producers in Southern and Central Ethiopia, despite their recognized benefits. This study investigated the factors that drove or hindered digital tool adoption in this context.MethodsA mixed-methods approach was used, combining qualitative interviews and quantitative data analysis. The Endogenous Switching Regression model was applied to examine the socio-economic, institutional, and technological factors affecting adoption.ResultsThe results showed that digital tool adoption significantly enhanced both agricultural productivity and household income among smallholder farmers. Key determinants included access to digital infrastructure, availability of ICT resources, and tailored extension services.DiscussionThe findings suggested a need for policies that promoted digital adoption, emphasizing infrastructure investment, expanded ICT access, and the development of specialized extension programs. These actions were seen as crucial for advancing rural livelihoods, supporting sustainable agriculture, and stabilizing the regional economy.

The role of sustainable land management practices in alleviating household food insecurity in Nigeria

Climate change is a major challenge impacting food security globally. Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries including Nigeria has experienced the negative effect of climate vagaries most especially on agricultural production, thus, leading to food insecurity. However, sustainable land management (SLM) practices have a huge potential to minimize the impacts on food security in a rapidly changing climate. This study estimates the determinants of the adoption of SLM practices and the impact of adoption on household food security among smallholder rice farmers in Ogun State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 120 respondents. A Poisson endogenous treatment (PET) model was employed to analyse the determinants of level of adoption of SLM and impact of SLM adoption on household food security level of smallholder rice farmers in the study area. To account for counterfactuals, a doubly-robust augmented-probability-weighted regression adjustment (APWRA) was also used. In the same vein, the study employed the marginal treatment effects (MTE) approach to estimate the treatment effects heterogeneity. The results showed that socio-economic factors greatly influenced the adoption of SLM practices, such as age and educational level of farmers. The effect of SLM adoption on food security of smallholder farmers was found to be improved when they used SLM package consisting of variety of practices, hence, SLM practices have the potential to alleviate food insecurity among rice farmers if well combined and used to a large extent. The study concluded that knowledge in form of formal education, some form of vocational training, and trainings to access weather information were key to influencing SLM adoption among smallholder farmers in the study area. The treatment effects on untreated (ATU) are lower than that of ATE and ATT, confirming the positive selection on unobserved gains. In particular, the ATU results show that for an average non-adopting household, adoption of SLM practices would significantly improve dietary diversity by about 27%. Farm-level policy efforts that aims to equip farmers through education, trainings and disseminating information on climate change would be a huge step towards the promotion of SLM practice which eventually leads to increased food security. The study recommended that continuous adoption and extensive use can be fostered by encouraging farmers to join a social organisation where related and relevant information on sustainable land management practices is shared through trained agricultural extension officers.

Leveraging soft infrastructure for agricultural development: A policy perspective on technology adoption among agricultural extension officers in West Java

Technological advancements are transforming agriculture, yet adoption rates among agricultural extension officers, especially in regions like West Java, remain modest due to several challenges. This study applies the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to investigate factors influencing the adoption of agricultural technologies by agricultural extension officers in West Java. Specifically, we explore the role of socialization, training, access to technology, cost, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness in shaping behavioral intention and actual adoption. Data were collected from 295 agricultural extension officers via structured surveys and analyzed using SmartPLS 4 software. The findings indicate that socialization and training collectively enhance both perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, while Technology Investment Worth specifically enhances perceived usefulness by emphasizing the value of the investment. Access to technology also plays a critical role in increasing ease of use perceptions. Both perceived ease of use and usefulness positively influence behavioral intention, which in turn is a strong predictor of actual adoption. The results provide valuable insights for policymakers aiming to increase technology uptake among agricultural extension officers, promoting sustainable agricultural practices through improved access, support, and cost reduction initiatives.

Prevalence and management of anemia and impact of treatment burden on health-related quality of life in chronic kidney disease and dialysis patients.

Anemia management in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant challenge for healthcare professionals worldwide. The extensive management of CKD and its complications is directly linked with a substantial treatment burden, which impacts quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to assess the prevalence and management of anemia and to evaluate the treatment burden and its impact on the QoL of CKD and dialysis patients in Pakistan. A multicenter prospective observational study was conducted in three hospitals. A total of 170 patients were enrolled, with 156 available for follow-up after six months. Their prior consent was obtained. Each participant was interviewed in person and received a data collection form. At baseline, the prevalence of anemia among CKD (stage 3-5) and dialysis patients was 78.7% and 94.7%, respectively. Patients on dialysis used more erythropoietin stimulating agents (ESAs), with 38.6% at baseline and 40.8% by month six, compared to non-dialysis CKD patients. Oral iron was used by 6.2% of stage 3, 25% of stage 4, 20% of stage 5 patients, and 6.6% of dialysis patients at baseline. At the six-month follow-up, 42.8% of CKD and 33.8% of dialysis patients achieved the target hemoglobin level. Dialysis patients had a higher treatment burden compared to CKD at baseline (77.4±10.6 vs 59.3±13.3) and at six-month visit (79.3±11.1 vs 59.1±14.5). The multiple regression analysis showed that treatment burden had a significant association with age, disease duration, and comorbidity at baseline. There was a significant negative correlation between overall treatment burden and QoL, indicating that QoL decreases as treatment burden increases. Anemia was prevalent, and its management was suboptimal in this study. The overall treatment burden score was high in dialysis patients, negatively affecting the QoL.

Assessment of groundwater quality and public health risks: physicochemical and bacteriological analysis in the Casablanca-Settat region, Morocco

ABSTRACT This study reports groundwater contamination in Morocco’s Casablanca-Settat region and observes groundwater quality trends, using Moroccan, EU and WHO standards. High mineralisation was attributed to soil composition and extensive agriculture. Bacteriological analysis indicated significant faecal contamination, with a positive correlation between bacterial load (TC, EC, IE) and physicochemical parameters (NO3–, NH4+, and oxidisability), as nitrates and ammonium provide nutrients for bacterial growth, thus explaining the direct correlation. The study highlights the region’s deteriorating groundwater quality.

Assessing Sustainability Disparities among Typologies of Sheep Farming in Türkiye

This research aims to empirically examine the relationship between sustainability level and typological differences among Turkish sheep farms and the success of policy implications. Farm level research data were collected from randomly selected 328 sheep farms in Diyarbakır, Şanlıurfa, Mersin, Antalya, Konya, and Ankara through a structured questionnaire. Farm level sustainability was explored based on a composite sustainability index was created based on the selected 28 indicators attributed to productivity, resilience, adaptability, self-sufficiency, and equity under economic, social, and environmental pillars of sustainability. Research results revealed that the sustainability level of sheep farms varied from 36.54% to 41.19% associated with typology. Sheep farms in Type III (semi-intensive dairy sheep farms) and 5 (intensive dairy sheep farms) had the highest economic sustainability, while sheep farms in Type VI (multi-purpose sheep farms with large land) had the highest social sustainability and sheep farms in Type IV (extensive multi-purpose farms with small land) had the highest environmental sustainability. Sheep farms in Type V (intensive dairy sheep farms) were better performers than others in resilience and productivity. The research results also showed that there had been a gap between current policy implications and the real needs of sheep farms to achieve sustainability and it varied associated with typology. The study suggests considering sustainability level differences by typology when designing and practicing policy related to sheep farming. Reducing the gap between the real needs of sheep farms and current policy implications may increase the efficiency and impact of policy measures related to sheep farming.

Identification of raccoon rabies virus variant in a stray kitten: the role of veterinary practitioners in detection and reporting of a non-native zoonotic pathogen-Nebraska, 2023.

Rabies is a fatal encephalitic disease affecting all mammals. This report describes identification of raccoon rabies virus variant isolated from a stray kitten in an urban Midwestern city that is nonendemic for this virus variant. The kitten originally presented with nonspecific neurologic abnormalities. Astute veterinary, wildlife, and public health professionals played a critical role in the identification of this fatal zoonotic disease and the extensive public health and wildlife management response that ensued. This case serves as an important reminder of the risk of rabies in unvaccinated animals or those without known vaccination status, including stray animals.