Farmer’s Perception in Adoption of Conservation Agriculture practices in Madhubani District of Bihar, India

Farmer’s perception with respect to conservation agriculture

Abstract

The study has been conducted in Madhubani district of Bihar state to analyse gender segregated key benefits, advantages, disadvantages, issues and the key decision processes and criteria for conservation agriculture technology adoption. Data were collected through focus group discussions involving male and female farmers. Cent per cent farmers expressed saving of labour and reduction in drudgery in Zero Tillage Direct Seeded Rice (ZTDSR). Higher yield through adoption of ZTDSR was revealed by equal percentage (75 %) of male and female farmers. Equal percentage (100 %) of male and female farmers expressed labour saving as one of the most important criteria for adoption of the ZT. Gender segregated data showed almost similar perception related to criteria adoption of ZT technology in rice-wheat system. All the female groups expressed that limited knowledge of herbicide use restricts adoption of ZTDSR. All the female groups were in the view that there is reduction of drudgery through adoption of mechanical paddy transplanter. Preparation of mat type nursery was top most disadvantages for 90 and 70 % male and female groups respectively. 80% farmers groups expressed their opinion that non availability of trained tractor drivers for machine operation limits adoption of ZT machine. Preparation of mat nursery and trained operators for paddy transplanter was major criteria for adoption of mechanical paddy transplanter. There was contradiction in the perception among male and female farmers with respect to yield advantage and associated risk for poor yield due to the adoption of CA technologies.