Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociology
Not a member yet
2852 research outputs found
Sort by
Analysing Farmer Indebtedness: Determinants and Repayment Constraints in Bikaner District, India
No full textFarmer indebtedness in water-scarce regions poses a critical challenge to rural livelihoods and credit sustainability. This study examines 90 farm households in Bikaner district, Rajasthan—where 67.8% of households carry outstanding debt averaging ₹181.8 thousand each—to identify the key determinants of borrowing levels, default risk, and repayment constraints. Multiple linear regression explains 54.1% of variation in total loans, revealing that access to irrigated land (b = 0.495, p < 0.01), higher education (b = 0.234, p < 0.05), and greater reliance on non-institutional credit (b = 0.252, p < 0.01) significantly increase borrowing, while demographic and socio-economic factors such as age and non-farm income exert weaker effects. Logistic regression shows that older farmers (β = 0.779, p < 0.05) and those borrowing informally (β = 0.803, p < 0.05) face higher default risk, whereas larger landholdings (β = –0.140, p < 0.05) and off-farm income (β = –1.331, p < 0.10) enhance repayment capacity. The foremost barriers to loan servicing are low farmgate prices (64.8%), inadequate income (64.1%), and natural calamities (64.0%), compounded by crop failures, loan diversion, and excessive farm expenditure
Perceived Impact of Climate Change and Adaptation Strategies of Dairy Farmers in Drought-prone Districts of Tamil Nadu, India
No full textClimate change has emerged as a global challenge for sustainable development since its effects provide significant threats to achieving economic, social, and environmental sustainability goals. This study underscores the multifaceted impacts of climate variability, particularly drought, on dairy farming across the selected vulnerable districts in Tamil Nadu. Periodic drought is a major challenge in drought-prone areas of India. A sample survey of farmers (n = 60) from a highly vulnerable district was conducted to study the farmers’ perception about climate change and to document the drought adaptation index. Drought Adaptation Index (DAI) was calculated. The escalating severity of drought in Tamil Nadu underscores the critical importance of documenting the perceived impact of farmers regarding climate variability on dairy production and documenting the farmers\u27 led adaptation strategies. While existing research has examined drought measurement and impact assessment in agriculture, there remains a significant gap in empirical studies analysing farmers\u27 adaptation practices and their policy implications pertaining to dairying. Hence, research indicates an urgent need for comprehensive initiatives to enhance dairy farmers\u27 resilience. The absence of robust empirical evidence on drought adaptation practices poses a significant threat to dairy farming sustainability and food security. To address this challenge, research efforts must focus on identifying and evaluating effective adaptation policies that can sustain agricultural productivity through drought periods. The most significant adaptation strategies adopted by the farmers were Selection of appropriate fodder varieties for drought (0.95) and selection of recommended breeds (0.93), Feeding crop residues and tree leaves (0.67), Tethering the animals under trees (0.57) and Spreading coconut / palmyrah leaves on the roof top (0.55). Very low DAI scores were recorded for usage of wet sacks (0.07), growing trees around sheds (0.05), changing grazing times (0.05), and preference for tree fodder (0.03). These strategies, while potentially beneficial, lack perceived usefulness and self-efficacy among the surveyed respondents. The study highlights the economic strain caused by reduced milk yield, reduced forage availability and rising input costs, further exacerbating vulnerability in dairy systems
Challenges and Opportunities towards Catalyzing Production and Commercialization of Tamarind Fruit in Kenya
No full textThere is limited information on how to catalyze Tamarind production and commercialization in Kenya despite the growing demand in the domestic and export markets due to its multiple uses. The objective of this study was to conduct a situational analysis on production and commercialization of Tamarind in Kenya and to identify bottlenecks and opportunities which may help catalyze the scaling up of production and commercialization of Tamarind. An exploratory study design using selected literature and interviews with farmers, transporters, traders and extension staff in the Coastal regional of Kenya were used to collect data. The results show that Tamarind fruits are underutilized, mainly collected in the wild in semi-arid areas of the country and marketed through informal channels. Mombasa is the terminal market for tamarind sourced from Kenya and Uganda, from where domestic consumers and exporters obtain their supplies. Key challenges were found to be lack of organized production, long maturity periods, lack of quality planting materials, distant markets, limited value addition and inadequate promotion by government institutions. Increasing demand in local restaurants for tamarind drinks, flavoured foods and sauces as well as the export markets provide opportunities to scale up production in Kenya. The findings suggest that catalyzing the production and commercialization of tamarind in the country requires collaboration between public and private sector actors. The structure of such a collaboration should focus on development and strengthening the following value chain links namely; research into early maturing varieties and model nurseries as source of quality planting materials; domestication and production by farmers in orchards; aggregation centres for assurance of volumes and quality; processing and value addition; and linkages to domestic and export markets
Determinants of Social and Technological innovations adoption among Small Tea Growers (STGs) in South India
No full textThis study examined the adoption of social and technological innovations among Small Tea Growers (STGs) in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Data from 150 growers were analyzed to identify the major factors influencing adoption behaviour. Most growers reported a medium level of innovation adoption, indicating a gradual but steady uptake of improved practices in the small tea sector. Annual income, occupation, area under tea and access to basic mechanization showed positive associations with adoption, while age and formal education exhibited negative relationships, suggesting that younger and moderately educated growers were more receptive to new practices. MCA was used to examine the contribution of variables such as age, education, occupation, income, farm machinery and area under tea to the adoption dimensions. The findings also indicated that Tamil Nadu growers had higher adoption levels than Kerala growers, largely due to stronger institutional support and better access to key resources. These results highlight the need for targeted support that enhances growers’ economic capacity and strengthens their linkages with extension and cooperative networks. Improving access to affordable credit, practical training, and low-cost mechanization can further accelerate innovation uptake. The study provides useful insights for researchers and policymakers seeking to promote sustainable improvements in smallholder tea cultivation
SWOT Analysis of Inland Primary Fisheries Cooperative Societies in Tamil Nadu, India
No full textBackground and Aims: Fisheries cooperatives play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable development by empowering fishing communities and providing livelihood opportunities to millions of fishers in India. This study aimed to assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) of Inland Primary Fisheries Cooperative Societies (IPFCSs) in Tamil Nadu and to formulate strategies for strengthening these societies using the TOWS matrix.
Study Design: The study followed Ex post facto research design.
Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted in the Cuddalore and Tiruvallur districts of Tamil Nadu, where a total of 40 inland primary fisheries cooperative societies were randomly selected. The data were collected between January 2023 to August 2023.
Methodology: Potential strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the cooperatives were identified and administered to executive and general body members of each society separately. Responses were recorded on a three-point continuum: more perceived, less perceived and not perceived scored as 2, 1 and 0, respectively. Based on total scores, SWOT factors were classified into major and minor strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats and further analysed using the TOWS matrix.
Results: Major strengths perceived by Cuddalore Fisheries Cooperative Societies (CFCS) and Tiruvallur Fisheries Cooperative Societies (TFCS) were access to diverse fishing resources (0.73 vs. 0.83) and members’ collective strength (0.60 vs. 0.68), respectively. Major weaknesses in both districts included inadequate infrastructure facilities (0.94 vs. 0.95) and an absence of income-generating activities (0.89 vs. 0.90). Key opportunities identified were the availability of diverse fishing resources (0.91 vs. 0.95), tailor-made skill development programmes (0.73 vs. 0.60). Major threats included limited welfare schemes compared to marine cooperatives (1.00 vs. 0.90), high dependency on natural resources (0.91 vs. 1.00). The negative mean TOWS scores for CFCS (S-W = -0.16; O-T = -0.16) and TFCS (S-W = 0.09; O-T = -0.10) indicate that weaknesses and threats outweigh strengths and opportunities.
Conclusion: The study concludes that despite favourable resources, IPFCSs remain underutilised due to structural and institutional constraints. Targeted interventions focusing on infrastructure development, leadership capacity, institutional linkage strengthening and value-chain improvement are essential to enhance the effectiveness and resilience of inland fisheries cooperatives.
 
Identification of Alternative Local Food Potentials to Support Food Security in Disaster-prone Areas
No full textNatural disasters not only disrupt food production but also affect food accessibility and distribution. Therefore, it is important to explore alternative local food sources that can be utilized as substitutes. This study aims to identify the potential of local food resources in disaster-prone areas of Sukabumi Regency, west Java, Indonesia. The research was conducted descriptively, collecting information from both primary and secondary data related to local food potential. The identification results will be very useful in supporting food security through food diversification.The findings indicate that in Sukabumi Regency, particularly in disaster-prone areas, there are various alternative food sources that can serve as substitutes for staple foods, including hanjeli (Job’s tears), jawawut (foxtail millet), and taro. These three alternative food sources contain good nutritional value with high carbohydrate content, making them suitable substitutes for staple foods. Apart from that, these three alternative food sources are easy to cultivate, do not require complicated maintenance so they can be used as an alternative to meet food needs in disaster areas
Measuring the Knowledge of Rural School Children on Nutrition Education in Bihar, India
No full textThis research study investigates the knowledge regarding nutrition education among rural school children in Bihar, India. The goal of the study is to evaluate the existing level of nutrition knowledge and comprehension among kids in rural regions and to pinpoint possible areas for development in nutrition education initiatives. The rural school students were subjected to an interview schedule. A sample of rural schoolchildren from different Bihar schools, ranging in age from 8 to 12, participated in the study. The environment was taken into consideration when choosing knowledge test questions. A 53-item knowledge test was put through a relevancy check with help from extension specialists, and 43 items were chosen for the test. Thirty extension workers from outside the research area pretested the 53 items. Item analysis evoking difficulty index, discrimination index, and point biserial correlation were conducted based on the results of the pretesting. Items with difficulty indices between 0.3 and 0.8, discrimination indices equal or above 0.3, and substantial point biserial correlation at the 5% level of significance were chosen. Utilising the split-half method, the test\u27s reliability was calculated and determined to be 0.70. Ultimately, 18 questions were chosen for the final knowledge test given to rural schoolchildren. This knowledge test reveals a knowledge gap about nutrition and its significance for general health and well-being among Bihar\u27s rural schoolchildren. Most kids showed little understanding of key nutrients, food groupings, and their nutritional value. Additionally, there was a paucity of knowledge regarding the long-term effects of improper eating patterns and inadequate nutrition
Agriculture 4.0: Smart Revolution of the Future Farming Sector
No full textAccording to research, some agricultural professionals are worried about the use of some smart technologies. Some studies claim that agricultural cultures may be “Rescripted” in unfavorable ways, and there is precedence to imply that the general public is apprehensive about radical new agricultural technology.We elaborate on these interventions by suggesting that the fourth agricultural revolution should include essential features of responsible innovation, such as anticipation, inclusiveness, reflexivity, and responsiveness. The paper examines the stages of the industrial and agricultural revolutions in recent years, as well as their future possibilities. Although industry is growing, the agricultural sector has certain hurdles in adapting to Agriculture 4.0. The presented study may provide an overview of how technology advancements impact various industries and agriculture sector
Is Agriculture Still the Mainstay of Rural Economies? Insights from Ultra-Poor Households in North-central Nigeria
No full textAims: Nigeria may be facing aging and decline in the population engaged at food production nodes, posing huge challenge to agri-food systems with poverty at risk of deepening. Current trend in rural-urban migration and occupational mobility raises the open question of: “Is agriculture still a mainstay of rural economy, playing reliant roles in income and employment generation for the ultra-poor in Nigeria rurality?”. Understanding this is important because structural change to agricultural workforce in Nigeria has far-reaching implications on food security, welfare, and poverty. We sought to unfold the dynamics of agriculture as a business among ultra-poor rural households in North-Central Nigeria. First, we investigated engagements of ultra-poor rural households in agriculture. Secondly, we examined their level of commercialization. Lastly, we investigated determinants of ultra-poor’s market participation and its intensity.
Study Design: This study used quantitative primary data collected in surveys and qualitative data generated from focus group discussions.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in three states in North-central Nigeria viz: Kwara, Kogi, and Niger with data collected and analyzed between 2020-2022.
Methodology: We randomly selected 1588 households (out of 60,427 households) from the “Single Register of the Ultra-poor” operationalized on a World-Bank-Assisted Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme. We analysed data using descriptive statistics, Household Agricultural Commercialization Index, and Double-Hurdle Model.
Results: Only about 18.7% of the ultra-poor households were primarily engaged in agriculture with the focus groups highlighting conflicts issues from indiscriminate grazing activities as primary reason for the abandonment. Determinants of market participation and intensification include: (-) household dependency ratio, distance to markets, (+) linkage to market agents, access to mechanization and input market, CCT-beneficiary status, and farm size (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Involvement in primary agricultural production is declining in Nigeria. We recommend a boost to infrastructural development of the rurality to support agricultural transformation and attractiveness to the next wave of youths
Seeds of Change: Assessing Wheat Knowledge and Socio-profile in Rural Areas of Kharar, Tehsil of Punjab, India
No full textThis study investigates the socio-profile status, agricultural practices, and knowledge acquisition among farmers in rural villages of the Punjab region, India. Employing a cross-sectional survey design, data was collected from farmers residing in five villages through structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. The demographic analysis revealed a balanced gender distribution, with a significant proportion falling within the 40-60 years age bracket, highlighting the maturity of the farming population. Educational attainment varied, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to enhance access to higher education and vocational training programs. Findings indicated a high prevalence of smartphone usage among farmers, presenting opportunities for leveraging digital technology in agricultural extension services. Family compositions leaned towards nuclear families, while landholding patterns showcased the varied socio-profile landscape within the farming community. Peer networks and institutional support emerged as significant sources of agricultural information, underscoring the importance of collaborative approaches in knowledge dissemination. A notable increase in knowledge was observed among farmers after video presentations on wheat varieties, highlighting the efficacy of multimedia approaches in agricultural education. The study aimed to assess the impact of a video presentation on wheat cultivation on farmers\u27 knowledge. Data from 60 farmers showed significant improvements in various aspects of wheat cultivation knowledge, including identifying suitable wheat varieties, understanding sowing and harvesting timing, and recognizing common wheat diseases. The mean percentage increase in knowledge was 103%, indicating the effectiveness of the educational program. These findings underscore the importance of targeted educational initiatives in promoting sustainable agriculture and improving farmers\u27 livelihoods. Continued support and education efforts are essential for sustaining and enhancing these positive outcomes. However, the preference for sowing previous year\u27s seeds over newly released varieties indicates the persistence of traditional practices and the need for targeted interventions to promote varietal adoption. Overall, this study provides valuable insights for policymakers and development practitioners to design context-specific interventions aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and ensuring food security for rural populations in the Punjab region and beyond