Analysis of constraints and strategies for scaling up of precision farming in Kerala

Abstract

The study entitled “Analysis of constraints and strategies for scaling up of precision farming in Kerala” was an attempt to critically analyse the attitude of the farmers towards PF technology, assess the extent of adoption, identify the constraints and formulate strategies for scaling up of PF in Kerala. Ninety farmers consisting of 60 precision farmers (banana and vegetables) and 30 conventional farmers were randomly selected from Chittur block in Palakkad district of Kerala. 12 independent variables, two dependent variables and 30 constraints were studied and analysed with the help of different scales and techniques. A well-structured pre tested interview schedule was used for collection of data from the respondents. The study indicated that 80 per cent of the precision farmers belonged to old age group. Majority of the farmers had more than 25 years of farming experience. Precision farmers had a higher level of information seeking behaviour, risk and scientific orientation. More than 50 per cent of the precision farmers had attended more than 10 trainings. Conventional farmers had better market perception and were more economic orientated. However precision farmers were more innovative. Majority of the respondents had moderately favourable attitude towards PF practices and had medium level of adoption. The most important constraints experienced by both categories of respondents were rainfall and other meteorological problem and high cost of inputs. Non-availability of inputs, lack of technical skill , inadequate size of landholdings , lack of marketing facilities, heavy fluctuation in commodity price, high labour charges were other constraints of importance. Provision of a panel of multidisciplinary specialists for full time technical advice and a technical officer for implementation of the scheme was one suggestion. Developments of a market support system, F1 hybrids suiting to Kerala etc., were other measures. Besides, some extension strategies like shifting of PF from technology push to application driven approach, providing technologies through rental services , strengthening the relationship among IT, ICT, biotechnology and PF , development of a Decision Support System ( DSS) etc., are suggested which may help to scale up PF in Kerala.