Perception Of Farmers Research Articles

Socioeconomics Influencing Pesticide Management Practices in the Tribal Area of Maharashtra

The current study was carried out in the Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra, India, where rice cultivation relies on pesticides. The study aims to identify challenges faced by farmers in pesticide use and seeks input from farmers to develop strategies for rational pesticide use. The research explores farmers' behavior and perceptions regarding pesticide usage. It investigates socio-economic influences on buying behavior, the level of awareness about pesticide risks and safety measures, purchasing patterns, and promotional strategies employed by a pesticide company. Findings reveal that while pesticides contribute to crop protection, farmers lack proper knowledge about their safe use and potential risks. Lack of awareness and affordability issues lead to improper application, impacting human health and the environment. The study underscores the need for tailored educational programs to improve farmers' understanding of pesticides, emphasizing safe practices and optimal usage. Providing safety gear and measuring containers, ensuring affordability, and strengthening the distribution network is a must. We highlighted the importance of integrated pesticide management, involving scientific knowledge and traditional practices to achieve sustainable agriculture. The current information contributes to the development of effective strategies that align farmers' needs with responsible pesticide use, ultimately supporting both farmer livelihoods and environmental sustainability.

Community-based Agrotourism Development: The Analysis Strategy of Government of Bantaeng Regency, Indonesia

The development of agrotourism can not only encourage economic growth but also increase the positive perception of farmers and the public for preserving agricultural land as new business land. For this purpose, the government needs to take steps for preserving the environment, through means of agrotourism development in order to benefit the community. Through qualitative methods, this study aims to analyze the strategies and efforts that can be made by the government in developing communitybased agrotourism. Research data were obtained from observation, education literature, and interviews, before initiating the analysis, data triangulation process was conducted. The results of the analysis show that the government needs to develop space utilization so that people can develop new agrotourism business products, make promotional efforts to attract visitors, and provide new plant nursery facilities to the community. In addition, to maximize community-based agritourism in Bantaeng district, the government needs to provide training to increase human resources and outreach to the community.
 Keywords: agrotourism development, government, business land

Factors affecting highly pathogenic avian influenza vaccination practices at poultry farms in Tra Vinh, Vietnam.

The increased number of cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) as a zoonosis has raised concerns in terms of poultry and human health. Farmers' preventive practices are an effective way of reducing zoonosis. However, this practice may have been affected by many factors, including production behaviors, awareness, and farmers' perceptions of farmers toward zoonosis. This study was conducted on 166 poultry farms in Tra Vinh Province with 14,894 poultry heads to determine the socioeconomic profiles and production characteristics of poultry farms and analyze the effect of these factors on HPAI vaccination practices. Respondents were selected from lists provided by government officers. Descriptive statistics were used to describe all variables, and factors affecting HPAI vaccination practices were analyzed using binary regression analysis. The results showed that most farmers raised poultry with other livestock using the free-range method, which is a semi-intensive system. The primary objectives of poultry farming are meat sales and augmenting household consumption, with farmers primarily raising chicks produced on their farms. The implementation of the vaccine was less than 50% on the surveyed farms, with a small number of farmers administering an HPAI booster dose. However, only 6% of the farmers confirmed that their livestock had been exposed to HPAI. In addition, HPAI vaccination and booster dose practices significantly increased when farmers had 4-6 family members and received HPAI prevention training. Moreover, increased poultry numbers have led to increased vaccination rates and the implementation of booster doses for poultry. The study also reported that the vaccination rate decreased when poultry was used for household consumption. Sociodemographic characteristics and production behaviors can affect the implementation of HPAI vaccination on small poultry farms.

Assessing the Impact of Boer Goat x Indigenous Goat Crossbreeding on Reproductive Performance and Farmer Perceptions in Southern Ethiopia.

Crossbreeding aims to increase the productivity of local or indigenous animals by introducing exotic breeds. This study aims to assess the effects of crossbreeding using 50% Boer bucks crossed with Ethiopian indigenous Woyto-Guji goats and to evaluate farmers' perceptions towards crossbred kids. Data were collected from five purposively selected districts in southern Ethiopia. Personal interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and field observations were employed to gather information on the goat production systems and farmers' perceptions. The mean ± SD of goat flock size in the study area were 7.31 ± 5.89 heads per household (HH) with larger flock sizes observed in the Alaba zone (10.32 ± 6.56). Goats in the studied areas were primarily kept for income generation. The average age at first kidding was 11.3 ± 1.3 months. Relatively better management practices were observed for crossbred goats in the Alaba, Loko Abaya, and Gurage zones. Respondent farmers highly appreciated Boer crossbred goats due to their superior perception of attractive coat color (4.39 times greater, P < 0.001), docile behavior (3.59 times greater, P < 0.001), fast growth rate (1.64 times greater, P < 0.05), and market preference (5.81 times greater, P < 0.001). However, susceptibility to disease and drought was considered as drawbacks of crossbred kids in the studied areas. It was also reported that crossbreed goats fetched better prices than indigenous goats of a similar age group and under the same management system. All visited farmers expressed a strong interest in crossbreeding. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that Boer crossbred goats perform well in southern Ethiopia. Therefore, the continued production of crossbred kids can be disseminated to these areas. Additionally, it is suggested to consider the interests of goat producers in the remaining areas. Integrated improved management systems need to be implemented to enhance the survival of crossbred kids. Sustainable training programs should be organized for goat keepers, focusing on aspects such as crossbreeding, minimizing inbreeding, buck rotation, and improved feeding and management practices.

A Study on the Perception of Farmers on the Impact of Input Cost of Agricultural Produce and Return on Investment in Mandya, Karnataka.

A Study on the Perception of Farmers on the Impact of Input Cost of Agricultural Produce and Return on Investment in Mandya, Karnataka.

Study on Varietal Replacement Rate of Groundnut in Saurashtra Region of India

The study conducted during 2024 investigated the dynamics of Variety Replacement Rate (VRR) in groundnut cultivation in Gujarat, India, which contributes significantly to the country’s oilseed production. The study encompasses 180 farmers from three districts in the Saurashtra region, where 40.5 per cent of the nation’s groundnut production originates. The study analyzed the extent of the VRR which states that around 41.11 per cent of the respondents had replaced variety every 3-5 years followed by 30 per cent had no replacement from 5 years and the remaining 28.89 per cent of the respondents had replaced variety for every 2 years. The extent of VRR is influenced by gender, livestock possession, access to credit, occupation, risk orientation, innovativeness, and extension contact. Concerning the perception of farmers towards varietal replacement rate (VRR), 45 per cent of respondents exhibited a neutral perception, followed by 27.78 per cent having a favorable and 27.22 per cent having an unfavorable level of perception towards the varietal replacement rate, emphasizing the need for interventions. Occupation, innovativeness, training received, and awareness significantly influence VRR perception. There is a positive and highly significant relationship between perception towards VRR and the extent of VRR at a 1% significance level with a chi-square value of 22.32.

Perception of farmer towards climate change and associated proposed agriculture strategies

Climate change is widely acknowledged as a prominent obstacle that significantly impacts agricultural productivity and the wellbeing of individuals. Farmers bear the brunt of the impact since they must consistently adapt to changes in climate. Questionnaire surveys were conducted in Bhopal, India to ascertain farmers' perspectives of climate change and its implications. The research was conducted out in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. M.P. possesses a range of meteorological conditions, soils, and a variable cropping pattern. This study utilises cross-sectional household survey data collected from farmers residing in Bhopal. The study employed a multi-stage sampling process to choose respondent houses for the sample. Ultimately, the study's sample size was established at 97 household heads. The study employed quantitative data. Data collection was conducted using household surveys. The researchers employed both structured and unstructured questionnaires to examine the farmers' impression of climate change. Given the nature of their work, researchers asked the farmers who took part in it what they thought about climate change. The findings imply that a variety of factors, including age, level of learning, and prior agrarian expertise, influence farmers’ perceptions of global warming.

Diverging Views on Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF): Insights from Farmers in Northern Karnataka

Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) is promoted as an alternative farming method to achieve sustainability and build a climate-resilient agricultural system. The perception of farmers towards ZBNF determines its adoption. For the study was conducted in 2020 two districts of Northern Karnataka were chosen and respondents were categorised into adopters, planners, and non-adopters. From each group, 50 respondents were selected. The Kruskal-Wallis test was conducted to test the significant difference followed by the post hoc Dunn-Bonferroni test. Significant differences were found in 13 out of 15 statements, particularly concerning the necessity of indigenous cattle (H = 16.71, p &lt; 0.001), labour intensity (H = 17.59, p &lt; 0.001), and the reduction in yield during the first year of ZBNF (H = 32.16, p &lt; 0.01). Planners and adopters differed significantly on statements such as ZBNF’s labour-intensive nature (p = 0.006) and its independence from heavy machinery (p = 0.003). The Dunn-Bonferroni post hoc test highlighted differences across three groups on statements like all types of crops can be cultivated in ZBNF and there is no pesticidal residual effect of ZBNF products on human health. These distinct perceptions highlight the need for targeted outreach strategies based on farmers’ perception.

A Policy Brief on the Application of Artificial Insemination (AI) in Lanao del Sur

This paper is a policy brief regarding the application of the Artificial Insemination (AI) as a mode of reproductive technology in Lanao del Sur. Lanao del Sur is one of the provinces in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the dwelling of Meranao tribes who practice Islam as their religion. The province has favorable climatic conditions for agricultural productions both in crops and animals’ production. Lanao del Sur is a landlocked province and is agriculturally rich having a well-suiting climate and extensively arable land, and it has a growing inventory of livestock such as carabao, cattle, goat, duck and chicken. This policy brief was based on the research findings conducted regarding the perceptions and acceptance of the AI among livestock growers. The goal of this policy brief is to provide baseline data about the farmers perceptions on AI and formulate a research-based policy recommendation to help the LGU, implementing agencies and the farmers for effective and efficient implementation of AI program in the province. The6 following are the salient points: 1) Meranao livestock growers’ perceptions about using Artificial Insemination (AI). 2) Capacitating the farmers towards adoption of artificial insemination, and breeding programs. 3) Ensuring efficiency of livestock production among farmers. 4) Increase the livestock production in Lanao del Sur.

Farmer perception, knowledge and management of the scale insect pest complex infesting crops and trees in Coastal Kenya

Scale insects and mealybugs (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Coccomorpha) are serious plant sap-sucking pests affecting a wide range of cultivated crops and tree species. The insects are highly diverse and can have devastating effects on yields due to lack of farmer awareness and inappropriate management practices. Recent alien mealybug invasions in Kenya include among others, papaya mealybug (Paracoccus marginatus), a highly invasive pest that is spreading quickly. Farmer experience with diverse crop pests can support development of a successful pest management strategy and contribute to reduced impacts on both crop yields and agro-biodiversity. This socio-economic survey was carried out in three coastal counties of Kenya (Mombasa, Kilifi and Kwale) to establish the impact of scale insect and mealybug pests on farmer livelihoods and to document the perception, knowledge and management practices used by smallholder farmers. Data from oral interviews using ODK were administered to respondents and analysed using Excel and GENSTAT. It emerged that 26% of the respondents were familiar with scale insects and 51% with mealybugs, respectively. Of these, 78.13 % and 94% acknowledged having encountered scale insects and mealybugs, respectively, on their farms. The farmers confirmed that scale insect pests affected a high diversity of crops and trees. About 56% of the respondents used pesticides to control the pests while 25% did not apply any management strategy. The remaining 19% practiced cultural control methods such as field sanitation and intercropping with less susceptible crops. Pesticides were reported to be moderately effective (41-70%) at controlling scale insects and mealybugs. Other management options reported by farmers included farm hygiene, the use of high-pressure water jets, and applications of ash and bio-pesticides such as home-made neem extract. Based on the findings, it is recommended that capacity building for farmers and input providers be undertaken to enhance the knowledge of scale insect and mealybug pest biology, symptoms of crop and tree attack, host ranges and management practices. Additonally, training on the use of low-risk pest control products and innovative control methods should be undertaken to reduce the impact of the pest on crop production and agro-biodiversity. Keywords: Farmer knowledge, management, mealybugs, scale insects and socio-economic survey.

Gender Perceptions of Small Holder Farmers on the Impact of Climate Change in Communal Areas of Zimbabwe

Climate change has caused severe havoc to social, economic, environmental and physical repercussions to development. The world has encountered the unprecedented natural catastrophes which encompass climate induced calamities such as hurricanes, floods, volcanoes, droughts and cyclones. The study was aimed at unpacking the gender dimensions of small holder farmer on the impact of climate change, vulnerability, adaptation in communal areas. Quantitative primary data was collected from a sample of 244 selected smallholder communal famers, in which stratified random sampling was used to select the respondents to this study. A self-administered structured questionnaire was used to solicit quantitative data from smallholder communal farmers, Bikita rural district council (department of environment) and from Agriculture Extension department. A total of 188 questionnaires were responded to and used for data analysis. Using SPSS version 16.0 quantitative data were analysed using a mix of descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and regression analysis. The study established that the negative effects of climate change and variability are mitigated through growing of drought resistant small grains, growing early maturity seed varieties, adjusting crop planting times, application of lower levels of fertilizers, winter ploughing and ridging and pot-holing. Participation of smallholder farmers in climate change adaptation interventions in Bikita district is subject to socio-political, resources and physical systems and processes barriers. It also established a negative relationship between resource availability and female smallholder farmers’ participation in climate change adaptation practices and the study concluded that availability of resources is a key factor to female small holder farmers’ participation in climate change intervention. There is also need to avail agricultural research results relevant to the small holder farmers and train them on how to use the results to make informed on-farm investment decisions.

Evaluating the knowledge and perceptions of local farmers in Tanam Village, Morobe Province regarding Fall Armyworm infestation

This research presents farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and management strategies for the autumn armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in the Huon Gulf District and Tanam Village Market in Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea. This is the first study that focuses on the opinions and expertise of local farmers in the region, identifying crop-related issues and learning about their management techniques. The survey sites chosen were the Huon Gulf District and Tanam Village Market in Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea. Various farmers who grew different crops, such as sweet potatoes, bananas, taro, greens, maize, peanuts, fruits, and more, were interviewed during the research. Findings reveal that around 20 farmers participated in this random survey, with 55% falling between the ages of 25 and 35. However, there was a significant variation in age distribution, with 15% being quite old (51–70 years old) and 30% in the medium age range (36–50 years old). In conclusion, it is crucial to understand the perspectives and knowledge held by the local farmers in Papua New Guinea regarding fall armyworms. This will help develop innovative solutions to mitigate the consequences of this pest before they worsen and spread to other nations. This report emphasizes the importance of creating autumn armyworm management plans that consider farmers’ needs and goals.

Perceptions of Agriculture-related Agencies and Farmers in the Malaysian Borneo on Climate Change: An Exploratory Qualitative Study

Perceptions of Agriculture-related Agencies and Farmers in the Malaysian Borneo on Climate Change: An Exploratory Qualitative Study

Perceptions of agriculture-related agencies and farmers in the Malaysian Borneo on climate change: an exploratory qualitative study

Perceptions of agriculture-related agencies and farmers in the Malaysian Borneo on climate change: an exploratory qualitative study

‘Never cry for food’: food security, poverty, and recurring themes in news media regarding rabbit farming in East Africa

Abstract Rabbit farming is a form of low input agriculture that has potential to address food security and poverty in East Africa and beyond. For low input agriculture, farmers utilize local and affordable farm resources making it accessible across income levels. Understanding barriers and facilitators to rabbit farming could increase effectiveness of this form of low input agriculture in communities struggling with low food security and poverty, particularly for indigenous, smallholder farms. News media is an available source of data about community perceptions and practices on issues such as rabbit farming, food security, and poverty. For this qualitative study, researchers applied a priori and open coding text analysis to examine recurring themes in news media representations regarding perceptions of rabbit farming in East Africa. Results reveal that community members view rabbit farming as a community strategy that promotes better nutrition and food security while reducing poverty. Important themes included how gender and other cultural norms shaped efforts, and the role of sustainability and climate change on farming practices. Further, the easy cultivation of rabbits, funding, and protective policy and support of indigenous smallholder farms were perceived as facilitators for rabbit farming. Finally, investment in infrastructure for market, production, and knowledge-transfer of best production and business practices were considered critical to success for rabbit farmers throughout East Africa.

Communicational and psychological determinants of risk perception of farmers towards climate change in Madhya Pradesh

Communicational and psychological determinants of risk perception of farmers towards climate change in Madhya Pradesh

Exploring Farmers’ Perception and Constraints on the Adoption of Small‐Scale Irrigation in Hulet Eju Enesie District, North‐Western Ethiopia

Irrigation farming is one approach to reduce climate‐related risks, and make production possible throughout the year. Nevertheless, farmers were limited to using small‐scale irrigation (SSI) in the study area. This study mainly analyzed the perception of farmers’ and their constraints to use irrigation. The study used a multistage sampling technique to collect the primary data from 102 nonuser and 82 irrigation user respondents. Likert rating scale, relative importance index (RII), and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. The result of the RII indicates that, irrigation ensures high‐net income (0.87), high‐market demand for products (0.84), and insurance against drought (0.82) were highly perceived as advantageous attributes of the irrigation. Whereas, production cost (0.85), skill requirements (0.74), and declining soil fertility (0.65) were strongly perceived as relative disadvantage attributes of irrigation. Plant disease, input shortages, ineffective water distribution, and poor transportation are identified as major constraints for farmers to practice irrigation. Overall, farmers commonly noted the importance of irrigation. However, irrigation users highly perceived the positive attributes; whereas nonusers extremely perceived the negative attributes of irrigation. This implies the existence of perception differences between the two groups of farmers. Therefore, concerned stakeholders should strive to close the perception gap toward irrigation through interventions.

Study of the Social Impact of Environmental Management: Farmers Perceptions of Takalar Industrial Area Development Planning

The establishment of the Takalar Integrated Industrial Park (KITA) is confirmed by Presidential Regulation no. 18 (2020), aligning with the 2020-2024 National Medium Term Development Plan, which outlines the development of 18 industrial areas. It is imperative that the development process synchronizes with human resource advancement to yield benefits for both the environment and the neighboring farming community. This study aims to gauge farmers' perspectives on the social aspects of managing their environment in light of industrial area development plans, focusing on demographic, socio-economic, and cultural factors. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, the research conducted Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) involving six farmers and informants to assess their perceptions and expectations regarding KITA's development. Results indicate overall farmer approval of KITA's development, with a majority holding positive perceptions of the planning process. Demographically, farmers anticipate KITA's development as a primary avenue for increasing employment opportunities. They also foresee business prospects that could enhance their economic status, alongside anticipated improvements in infrastructure and the expected population growth. In terms of socio-cultural dynamics, concerns regarding potential clashes between local communities and newcomers are minimal, with farmers believing that cultural disparities will not disrupt traditional activities.

A study of farmers perception about agricultural mobile apps

A study of farmers perception about agricultural mobile apps

Level of Adoption and Perception of Farmers on Phosphorus Based Fertilizers for Cowpea Production in Katsina State, Nigeria

The study analyzed farmers' level of adoption and perception of phosphorus based fertilizers for cowpea production in Katsina state, Nigeria. A total of 153 cowpea farmers were sampled using a multi-stage sampling technique. Primary data was utilized in the study. The data was collected using a structured questionnaire by trained enumerators. Descriptive statistics, Kendalls’ coefficient of concordance and acceptability index were employed for data analysis. The results showed that the mean age for cowpea farmers was 41 years. Distribution of the respondents by gender reveals that 85.6% were males and the remaining 14.4% were females. The result of farmers’ perception of phosphorus-based fertilizer used shows a moderate agreement of 0.30 which indicates different perceptions among respondents. The study further revealed that the acceptability index of 6.54% was very alarming because cowpea farmers committed a small portion of their farmland toward adopting the technology. The level of knowledge of the cowpea farmers on phosphorus based fertilizers was very low, leading to a very low level of acceptance of phosphorus fertilizers in the study area. It was recommended that be made available and affordable to the cowpea farmers as this will increase the rate of technology adoption in the study area.