Agricultural Training Research Articles

Assessment of Biosecurity in Poultry Farms in Chitwan, Nepal.

The occurrence of poultry disease is one of the major problems for poultry farmers. Proper implementation of biosecurity practices leads to a reduction in entry, occurrence and spread of pathogens on farms, that have negative consequences for animal health, human health and economy. The goal of the study was to assess biosecurity measures implemented by broiler and layer farmers in Chitwan, Nepal. A total of 400 poultry farmers were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. The mean conceptual, structural and operational biosecurity scores obtained by the farms were 4.7±1.2, 11.6±2.7 and 17.1±4.1, respectively. The average biosecurity score recorded was 33.4±6.7. The lowest score obtained by a farm was 7, whereas the highest score obtained was 47. It was found that out of 400 farms, 44.2% (177/400) maintained a satisfactory level of biosecurity, while the remaining 223 (55.8%) exhibited an unsatisfactory level. The chi-square test revealed that the main occupation (χ2=31.832, p<0.001), experience in poultry farming (χ2=13.618, p<0.001), attending poultry farming training (χ2=23.107, p<0.001), biosecurity training (χ2=15.331, p=0.002), farm capacity (χ2=41.794, p<0.001), farm type (χ2=25.002, p<0.001), flooring system (χ2=35.906, p<0.001) and presence of workers in the farm (χ2=44.024, p<0.001) were significantly associated with the biosecurity level in poultry farms. This study reveals that there is much space for improvement in the adoption of biosecurity measures by poultry farms. Future training programs for poultry farmers should focus on providing knowledge on the proper implementation of biosecurity measures as a strategy for disease prevention and control.

From classroom to field: Assessing the impact of gender-targeted farmer training on knowledge, attitudes and practices in Northern Laos

Agricultural development aiming to empower and engage women has become a staple of most agrarian development programs. These gender-focused development programs are commonly referred to as gender-targeted development. Lao People's Democratic Republic is one country experiencing an increased focus on gender-targeted agricultural development. However, a limited understanding of cultural and gender-specific factors influencing the engagement of Laotian women continues to impact the successful implementation of these programs. This study examines the advantages of gender-segregated training through pre- and post-training knowledge, attitude and practice surveys. While no definitive conclusion was reached regarding the effects of gender-segregated or gender-mixed training, the study highlighted key factors that influence women's engagement, including domestic responsibilities and gender inequity in agricultural extension. The study revealed that domestic responsibilities significantly impact the engagement of women, with a majority (51.5%) of women participants with children bringing them to the training sessions. In contrast, only 12.1% of men with children brought them to their session, and they did so only to gender-mixed sessions where they could rely on their wives for childcare assistance. Men in the study experienced significant knowledge changes in gender-mixed training, whereas women exhibited no significant difference in knowledge acquisition between gender-segregated and gender-mixed sessions. Significantly, the investigation uncovered that gender gaps in education in Laos have reduced women's readiness for training, evidenced by the significantly lower starting scores of women. The findings of this study demonstrate the importance of future research in Laos and the application of participatory research approaches. A deeper understanding of the factors influencing the engagement of women in development programming will ultimately enhance the long-term success of gender-targeted development programs in Northern Laos and the Mekong Subregion, thereby contributing to improved gender equity and women's empowerment.

The Economic Impact of Agricultural Education and Training on Rural Development : A Comprehensive Analysis

Agriculture is a very critical input in the economic development of many nations, mainly the developing regions. This involves changing agricultural practices to make the food security situation much better, improve productivity and, above all, enhance sustainability. This paper highlights education and training in modern agriculture as an important method that can be used in mitigating the challenges caused by climate change, depletion of resources, and population increase. It looks at education and training programs in impact on farmer knowledge, adopting new technologies, and advocating for sustainable agricultural practices, coupled with case studies, data, and trends from worldwide.

Livelihood training, food production, and food security among vulnerable communities in Bangladesh

ObjectivesMassive influx of Rohingya refugees increases the risk of food insecurity in host communities in Bangladesh. This study explores intervention-related factors associated with food insecurity in the Bangladesh host households living near Rohingya refugees.MethodsThis secondary data analysis used the endline survey data from 660 host households who participated in the World Vision US Emergency Food System Security Project from 2019 to 2021. Logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the associations between program interventions and household dietary diversity score [HDDS: low (≤ 8) vs high (> 8)] and reduced coping strategy index [rCSI: high (> 3) vs. low (≤ 3)].ResultsA total of 64.7% of households (n = 427) had low HDDS, and 10.6% (n = 70) had high rCSI. Purchasing food using cash transfer was associated with higher odds of high rCSI (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.10; 95% CI 1.25–3.53) and low HDDS (AOR = 1.57; 95% CI 1.13–2.18). Those who received food aid had higher odds of low HDDS (AOR = 3.16; 95% CI 1.69–5.89). Participants who farmed had lower odds of having high rCSI and low HDDS [AOR = 0.41 (95% CI 0.21–0.77) and AOR = 0.57 (95% CI 0.34–0.98), respectively].ConclusionOur findings suggest that interventions focused on livelihood or farming training may yield the greatest reduction in food insecurity among host communities experiencing refugee influx. Humanitarian organizations should consider interventions that develop these farming skills over direct cash or food transfers to promote long-term self-sufficiency in the host population.

AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY OPERATION TRAINING IN KENYA (EGERTON UNIVERSITY-NJORO)

Farm mechanization in Kenya is influenced by increasing population pressure, evolving farm structures, labor availability, and the costs and suitability of technology. Despite investing in expensive tractors, many farmers lack the knowledge to properly operate and maintain them, often leading to inefficiencies and soil degradation. In response, Egerton University, in partnership with Hello Tractor Ltd., the Micro-Enterprise Support Programme, and local tractor dealers, developed an agricultural machinery training program. This program is designed to equip farmers and tractor operators with the skills necessary to maximize machinery efficiency for improved yields while ensuring long-term farm profitability and sustainability. It features eight comprehensive modules that transform tractor drivers into certified agricultural machinery operators. Graduates earn a certificate of competency and a G12 endorsement on their driving licenses. The program’s assessment is divided into 30% theoretical learning and 70% practical fieldwork with agricultural machinery. With a target of training 10,000 operators, the program also aims to unlock financing opportunities for youth and women in agriculture. To date, approximately 280 participants have completed the training, with 85% achieving certification. The gender breakdown includes 86 women (31%) and 194 men (69%). Trainees highly rated the practical skills they acquired, such as ploughing, harrowing, tractor driving, operating planters and boom sprayers, and performing maintenance tasks. These hands-on experiences provide a deeper, more personal understanding of key agricultural concepts.

On-Farm Cocoa Fermentation Practices and their Effect on the Quality of Cocoa Beans in Three Agroecological Zones of Uganda

Little attention has been paid to on-farm cocoa fermentation practices, leading to poor-quality cocoa beans. A cross-sectional study was conducted in three agroecological zones of Uganda (Lake Victoria Crescent, Western Rangelands, and Lake Albert Crescent) to investigate on-farm fermentation practices, the association between farmer training and adoption of recommended fermentation practices as well as the impact of fermentation practices on cocoa quality. Data on fermentation practices and farmer training was collected using a questionnaire. The quality of cocoa beans collected from interviewed farmers was assessed for bean cut test, fermentation index, pH, and titratable acidity following recommended methods. Results revealed significant variation in fermentation practices used by farmers, with over 65% employing rudimentary methods such as sack, bucket, and jerrycan. Training of farmers did not increase the likelihood of farmers adopting the recommended fermentation practices. As a result, the quality of fermented cocoa beans was low with only 40-51% of the beans from all zones exhibiting the fully brown color, which is below the 60% threshold for commercial-grade cocoa beans. Furthermore, the fermentation index of cocoa beans from all zones ranged from 0.61-0.67, indicating a high percentage of under-fermented beans. Farmers who used the recommended practices (heap and box fermentation for 5-7 days while turning cocoa) in each zone, produced cocoa with a significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher percentage of fully fermented beans. The continued use of rudimentary postharvest handling practices among farmers leads to the production of poor-quality cocoa beans. It is important to strengthen the enforcement of recommended fermentation practices to improve the quality of cocoa beans and ensure a sustainable market.

Determinants of the adoption of biological control agents in Andhra Pradesh

This study, conducted in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, India, in 2024, explored the factors influencing farmers' adoption of biological control agents (BCAs). Kurnool, an agriculturally significant region, was divided into four clusters: Kallur, Pathikonda, Kodumur and Panyam. A total of 120 farmers were selected using a convenience sampling method, chosen due to logistical constraints and the exploratory nature of the research. Data were gathered through semi-structured household interviews and supplemented by key informant discussions to provide additional context. The study examined adoption of BCAs as the dependent variable, with independent variables including age, gender, education, primary occupation, farming experience, farm income, farm size, training and membership in agricultural organizations. Analysis using a forward stepwise logistic regression model identified farm size, annual income and training as significant positive factors influencing awareness and adoption of BCAs. Results showed that 25 % of the sampled farmers were using BCAs. Key barriers to adoption included a lack of knowledge, reliance on chemical fertilizers due to entrenched agricultural practices, high costs and limited access to credit. To address these challenges, the study recommends implementing targeted education programs, enhancing access to affordable credit and fostering cooperative networks and public-private partnerships to strengthen collaboration between farmers and agricultural organizations. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive policy measures to support sustainable agricultural practices through the promotion of BCAs.

Antibiotic Use and Resistance Patterns in Escherichia coli Isolates from Rabbit Farms in Korhogo, Côte d'Ivoire

Backround: The use of antimicrobials in rabbit farming is essential for treating sick animals, controlling disease outbreaks, preventing illness, and promoting growth. However, their overuse and improper application contribute to the development and spread of resistant bacteria, posing a significant public health threat. This study aimed to assess antibiotic use and resistance patterns in Escherichia coli isolates from rabbit farms in Korhogo, Côte d'Ivoire. Methodology: Questionnaire was sent to 48 farmers, followed by the collection of fresh rabbit droppings from 25 farms. Escherichia coli was detected by inoculating droppings on chromogenic medium, followed by identification on the basis of biochemical characteristics. Resistance was studied using the Müeller-Hinton agar disc-diffusion method using 12 antibiotics. Results: Less than one-third of farmers (29.2%) used antibiotics, with oxytetracycline being the most commonly used. Antibiotics were primarily administered for digestive, skin, and respiratory diseases. The 56 E. coli isolates were highly resistant to colistin (82.1%), tetracycline (53.6%), amikacin (37.5%) and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (32.1%). Resistance rate to cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, aztreonam, nalidixic acid and ciprofloxacin were very low (&lt; 4%). However, all isolates were sensitive to amoxicillin + clavulanic acid and imipenem. The prevalence of ESBL E. coli was 3.6%. A significant number of E. coli isolate had a MAR index &gt; 0.2. Conclusion: This study highlights the poor use of antibiotics on rabbit farms in Korhogo, with high levels of resistance to certain antibiotics of critical importance in human medicine. Hence the need to intensify awareness-raising and training of farmers in the rational use of antibiotics, in order to reduce the risk of dissemination of resistant bacteria within the population.

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.

Kajian Partisipasi Anggota pada Kegiatan Kelompok Tani Hutan di Desa Kedung Poh Kecamatan Nglipar Kabupaten Gunung Kidul

Most of the people who own community forests in Gunung Kidul, in their management, have formed Forest Farmers Groups (KTH), which aim to improve living standards and the economy through businesses in the forestry sector. Member participation in activities carried out by KTH is one of the approaches for KTH in generating ideas/ideas/programs in the context of solving problems for its members, increasing social awareness, improving human resources, and regeneration. This research aims to determine the extent of participation of KTH members in Kedungpoh village, Nglipar Gunung Kidul District in their activities and determine the correlation with their sociodemographic conditions. The method used in this research is a survey method which is analyzed using correlation analysis and crosstab. This research shows that the level of participation of members of the Forest Farmers Group in their activities in planning is 78.30%, implementation is 89.88% and evaluation is 66.39%, while the socio-demographic condition of the members of the Farmers group which has a correlation in participation in activities organized by the Forest Farmers Group is age. and years of farming, which is closely related to members' motivation in participating in activities, namely to increase knowledge, receive agricultural assistance, gain experience, develop personal potential, increase enthusiasm and obtain agricultural training. This research also shows that there is a relationship/correlation between activity stages, namely between the stages of activity planning, activity implementation and activity evaluation.

The Influence of Nitrogen Rates on Yield and Some Quality Parameters of Sweet Corn (Zea mays saccharata Sturt.) Growing in Diyarbakır Districts of Türkiye

Sweet corn (Zea mays saccharata Sturt), is a maize subspecies with rapidly increasing consumption in the world and in Türkiye both in terms of its nutritional content and various uses in fresh, frozen and canned form. Nitrogen plays a crucial role in promoting most of plants growth and productivity. Plant nutrient recommendations are important to maximise profit and productivity in sugar maize production. The influences of nitrogen (N) fertigation on yield and some quality parameters of sweet corn under South Eastern Anatolia Region (Diyarbakır) conditions of Türkiye were investigated in that trial. Fertigation applications were executed under regional conditions of Diyarbakır on the experimental land of GAPUTAEM (GAP International Agricultural Research and Training Center). “BATEM Tatlı” variety of sweet corn was utilized as the plant material. The trial was arranged as randomized complete block design with 4 replications and five different N applications (0-75-150-225-300 kg ha−1) were implemented to trial plots through a fertigation system. During the 2015 and 2016 growing season that the trial was carried out a total of 520 mm and 476 mm of irrigation water were applied, respectively. According to the study results N levels had a significant effect on fresh grain yield, crude protein (p

Evaluation of Pesticide Use in Greenhouse Tomato Production in the Context of Sustainability, Food Safety and Export Residue Notifications

The sustainability of agricultural production and access to healthy food are important issues in the agricultural sector. From a food safety perspective, pesticide residue problems are becoming an increasing concern for consumers worldwide. This study aims to evaluate pesticide use in greenhouse tomato production in terms of sustainability, food safety and export residue notifications. In this research, original data obtained from a face-to-face survey conducted with 115 greenhouse tomato farmers in Kumluca district of Antalya province was used. It was found that farmers on the surveyed farms used pesticides containing 57 different active ingredients. Various types of pesticides were used, including 12.9 kg/ha of insecticides, 10.9 kg/ha of nematicides, 8.8 kg/ha of fungicides, and 3.8 kg/ha of acaricides, resulting in a total of 36.5 kg/ha of pesticide use. The study revealed that 55.88% of the pesticides used by farmers were classified as hazardous according to the World Health Organization's (WHO) classification. The increasing number of pesticide residue notifications from European Union countries in recent years serves as a warning for Turkish farmers. Therefore, Türkiye needs to make more efforts to comply with international standards for the sustainability of tomato production and exports. As a result, in the research area, more efforts should be made to increase farmer training activities, tighten controls in greenhouse production, and strengthen safe food control mechanisms in order to reduce the use of pesticides for sustainable agriculture and safe food. In addition, greenhouse production support policies should be redesigned to encourage farmers to use biological control methods.

International interests: Student and industry perspectives on agicultural communications curriculum development in Ontario

This study explores the potential development of an agricultural communications program at the [Institution]. It aims to understand the current knowledge of and interest in the discipline among Ontarian agriculture students and industry professionals, and the perceived importance and employability of hypothetical program graduates, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goal of quality education. Using a qualitative descriptive case study approach, focus groups with 18 students and six industry professionals were conducted. Data were collected through open-ended questions, analyzed using open coding and thematic analysis, and triangulated with demographic surveys. The findings reveal a general lack of understanding of agricultural communications among Ontarian students, who nonetheless recognize the field's potential to bridge gaps between producers and consumers, particularly through social media and diverse job opportunities. Industry professionals emphasized the growing importance of storytelling, crisis communication, and the need for poly-skilled graduates capable of addressing varied communication needs within the agricultural sector. Both stakeholder groups expressed interest in an agricultural communications academic program. Recommendations include engaging broader industry support for the program, integrating agricultural communications training across existing agricultural disciplines at the [Institution], and continuing research to refine curriculum development.

Utilization of Electronic Information Resources as Correlates of Publication Output by Researchers in Agricultural Research Institutes in Oyo State, Nigeria

The study examined the utilization of electronic information resources (EIRs) as correlates of publications among research scientists in National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARIs) headquarter in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Correlational research method was used to determine the relationship between utilization of EIRs and publications output among research scientists. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 217 respondents from a sample frame of 282 researchers based on Morgan’s table for sample size in four (Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, National Institute of Horticultural Research, Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria and Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria) NARIs. Data were obtained on types of EIRs utilized, extent of use, effect of EIRs utilization on publication and the total of researchers’ publications using a structured questionnaire. The results obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency counts, percentages, mean and standard deviation) and Pearson Product Moment Correlation coefficient (PPMC). Results revealed that major types of EIRs utilized by the researchers for their publications were Access to Global Online Research in Agriculture ( 3.46), Online Access to Research in the Environment ( 3.41) and The Essential Electronic Agricultural Library ( 3.32). The result further revealed that researchers have a high extent of use of EIRs with 100% utilization. The researchers stated that utilization of EIRs enhances efficient and effective publications ( 3.58) improve the quality of their publications ( 3.52) and enhance their decision making in publishing ( 3.48). Results further revealed that 74.9% and 85.3% of the researchers published more in local journals and proceedings respectively compared to 25.1% and 14.7% that published in international journals and proceedings respectively. PPMC revealed a significant (p&lt;0.05) relationship between utilization of EIR (r = 0.127) and researchers publications. In conclusion, utilization of EIRs enhances the publication output of researchers in agricultural research institutes. Therefore, the study recommended that stakeholders and policy makers in agricultural research institutes should invest in facilities that will facilitate utilization of EIRs for publications activities among research scientists.

DETERMINANTS OF WEATHER INDEX-BASED INSURANCE ADOPTION AMONG GHANAIAN FARMERS: INSIGHTS FOR CLIMATE RISK MITIGATION AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

In Sub-Saharan Africa, agricultural insurance products have been piloted to address the connected climatic risks that farmers confront. However, these products, in general, face low rates of adoption in Ghana. Specific determinants and opportunities of weather index-based insurance are evident in the existing literature. However, empirical studies on the effect of the variables in question seem to be lacking. The purpose of this study was to determine whether farmers in Ghana are willing to demand weather index-based insurance and what factors influence crop insurance participation and purchase. The factors under consideration included farmers' trust in financial institutions, farmers' perception of risk, and farmers' perceptions of policy interventions. This study utilized the theory of planned behavior (TPB) to explain the factors that influenced crop farmers' demand for weather index insurance. Based on the objectives of the research, the study adopted the quantitative research approach. In Ghana's Northern and Southern Savanna regions, a purposive sample technique was used to survey two hundred and three (203) farmers. The variables that affected the likelihood of farmers requesting weather index insurance were identified using Ordered Probit econometric models. The empirical results from the crop farmers show that farmers' trust in financial institutions, farmers' perceived risk, and farmers' perception of public policy were significant predictors of weather index insurance demand. The study found that farmers' trust in financial institutions and perceptions of public policy positively affected the probability of demanding weather index-based insurance. On the contrary, farmers' perceived risk negatively affected farmers' likelihood of demanding weather index insurance. The ordered probit regression analysis showed a significant difference between agroecological zone (p-value = 0.020, z = -2.31), maize crop (p-value = 0.022, z = -2.13), farming experience (p-value = 0.038, z = 1.92) and educational background (p-value = 0.042, z = 1.83) in farmer's willingness to demand weather index insurance. The study finds that farmers with a high level of perceived risk are less likely to demand for weather index-based insurance. Also, farmers with a high level of trust are more likely to demand for weather index-based insurance. Finally, farmers who view policy interventions to be effective are more likely to demand extra weather index-based insurance. The findings provide useful insight for government agencies and policymakers to review existing policies and introduce new ones that would encourage the participation of weather index insurance. Also, insurers can take a clue from the findings to draw up effective programs and workshops that would train farmers on better risk management strategies through the adoption of weather index insurance products. The study recommends the government improve the infrastructure and the quality of weather data. The study also suggests future studies to focus on farmers' saving and access to credit facilities on adopting weather index-based insurance. KEYWORDS: Weather Index-Based Insurance, Climate Risk Mitigation, Sustainable Agriculture, Farmer Perceptions, Trust in Financial Institutions

Offline solutions for agricultural extension: Integrating digital libraries into train-the-trainer programs

Training agricultural extension workers to educate rural farmers on conservation agriculture (CA) techniques is a significant challenge, especially in areas with limited access to the internet. This article evaluates the effectiveness of a train-the-trainer (TTT) approach that integrates an offline digital library and competency-based training to address both the information and skills needs of extension agents in Rwanda. Using Harper et al.'s (2024) TTT framework, the study assesses a TTT workshop conducted with agriculture extension interns, focusing on their ability to train farmers in CA practices. The training combined access to SolarSPELL, a portable offline library, with interactive learning experiences to enhance both technical and interpersonal skills. Post-training survey results indicate that participants found the digital library highly beneficial in overcoming information access challenges, while the competency training equipped them with essential skills for their roles. The findings suggest that integrating digital tools into TTT programs, particularly in rural offline settings, can enhance knowledge dissemination and improve the efficacy of agriculture training programs. The article explores the implications for broader adoption of this approach in other regions and agricultural sectors.

Human resources development in farming and fisheries for food security

The article delves into the issues of providing food security in the Maldives, a nation that regularly faces adverse weather conditions and natural disasters. These challenges include tsunamis, heavy rainfall, and strong winds that damage infrastructure, fishing vessels, agricultural land, contaminate freshwater resources and wash away entire islands during the monsoon season. The research purpose was to support workforce development to compensate for shortage of natural and technical resources in farming and fisheries. The explored data was collected from Maldives Bureau of Statistics. The applied statistical and clustering methods proved that training in farming should share knowledge of cutting-edge technologies like Hydroponics and Pest control, benefit female farmers, involve the youth in local agriculture and be evenly distributed among the Atolls. The study findings based on ranking and trend analysis argue that unstable employment is the paramount problem in fisheries. It is recommended to optimize a number of fishermen per vessel by Atolls and promote acquiring skills of advanced eco-friendly fishing. Overall research results created a reliable foundation for systematic development of qualified human resources in farming and fisheries that are crucial for strengthening food security in a risky environment.

The impact and mechanism of E-commerce of agricultural products on nongrain production of cultivated land in rural China.

Improving China's grain production level is conducive to achieving the sustainable development goal of zero hunger worldwide by 2030. As an important innovation in sales channels, e-commerce of agricultural products (EAP) directly affects grain production. However, no study has directly discussed the impact and mechanism of EAP on nongrain production of cultivated land (NGPL). Using data from large-scale household survey in rural China and econometric methods, this study analyzed the mechanism and effect of EAP on NGPL. The results show that EAP had a positive effect on NGPL. This conclusion is still valid after a series of robustness tests. EAP can improve farmers' timely access to agricultural product transaction information and promote the adjustment of farmland size. It leads to an increase in the planting of cash crops and an intensification of NGPL under the pursuit of maximizing profits. EAP mainly had a direct impact on large-scale farmers, those who have received e-commerce training, and farmers whose main source of income is agricultural income. China can fully leverage the advantages of rural e-commerce development to create agricultural brands and promote the upgrading of grain industry, improve the economic benefits of growing grain. It is also necessary to strengthen e-commerce training for farmers, improve their digital technology application capabilities and promote the high-quality agricultural products from villages to cities.

Synergy Between Smallholder Palm Oil Replanting Policies and Green Energy Initiatives: A Study of Impacts and Policies in Indonesia

People’s Palm Oil Replanting (PSR) and green energy projects are crucial Indonesian initiatives aimed at achieving economic and environmental sustainability. This study explores the synergies between these programs, analyzing their impacts and interactions within natural resource management and sustainable energy. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through stakeholder interviews, policy document analyses, and field surveys across five major palm oil-producing districts in Indonesia. The findings show that integrating PSR and green energy initiatives can enhance land productivity, reduce carbon emissions, and improve peatland management. PSR projects, focused on rejuvenating aging oil palm plantations and adopting environmentally friendly technologies, support more efficient bioenergy production. Simultaneously, green energy initiatives promote renewable energy use and incentivize sustainable practices. However, challenges such as limited collaboration, budget constraints, and farmer resistance persist. To address these, this study proposes a policy framework including financial support, technical training for farmers, and improved stakeholder communication. By examining the intersection of agricultural and energy policies, this research highlights strategies to achieve sustainability goals and provides actionable insights for policymakers to design integrated, effective approaches that maximize the benefits of these initiatives

Assessing technical and scale efficiencies in tilapia production: influential factors and insights

This study assessed the technical and scale efficiency of tilapia farmers in Bangladesh with a focus on identifying key factors influencing their efficiency levels. Data from 199 randomly selected tilapia farmers were analyzed using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), followed by a Tobit regression model to determine the key variables affecting efficiency. The results revealed a mean TE of 0.77 under CRS, 0.83 under VRS, and a mean SE of 0.92, indicating that most inefficiencies were technical rather than scale-related issues. The study also identified farming training, credit access, and years of experience had a positive effect on TE, while adverse climatic conditions negatively impacted efficiency. The findings emphasize the importance of mitigating climate impacts and improving resource management to enhance efficiency. Expanding credit access, improving training programs, and taking initiatives for mitigating climate impacts could significantly improve the efficiency and long-term viability of tilapia production in the region.