Rice Farmers’ Use and Preference of Information Sources for Adopting Agrochemicals in Selected Regions of Bangladesh

Abstract

The reckless use of agrochemicals can damage the environment and threaten the sustainability of rice farming. Employing a quantitative research design, the study surveyed 402 farmers using a structured interview schedule from four selected districts: Barisal, Bagerhat, Dinajpur and Gaibandha of Bangladesh from February to April 2022. The study's findings indicate that, according to the weighted mean, farmers rely on input dealers (3.13), other farmers (1.77), and extension officers (1.57) as the primary sources for determining agrochemicals. In terms of preference for various sources, most farmers (WM = 3.08) prefer dealers, followed by experienced farmers (WM = 1.77) and extension officers (WM = 1.62). The findings also show that farmers prefer input dealers and experienced farmers for increased availability and accessibility, although many consider these sources less reliable. Although perceived as more experienced and dependable, the government extension service is less preferred due to limited availability and accessibility. Regression findings show that land area under cultivation, awareness of the adverse effects of agrochemicals, participation in training, and district location can significantly influence farmers’ use of formal information sources. This study recommends increasing the availability and access to formal extension sources, such as government extension agents, television, newspapers, and printed materials. It also suggests strengthening the credibility and capacity of informal extension sources such as input dealers and advanced farmers. Additionally, the study emphasizes training farmers on the safe use of agrochemicals and raising awareness about the adverse environmental effects of agrochemicals.