Exploring Farmers Perspectives on Modern Agricultural Technology: A Study in Chapainawabganj District

Abstract

Modern technologies are becoming more essential to long-term agricultural development, since technologies empower farmers to increase productivity while implementing fewer natural resources to meet the global need for food, fuel, and fiber. This study investigates the attitudes of farmers in Chapainawabganj district, Bangladesh, towards modern agricultural technology, with a focus on socio-demographic characteristics, technology usage, and their relationship to attitudes. The research was conducted in four upazilas: Nachol, Shibganj, Bholahat, and Chapainawabganj Sadar. A sample of 200 farmers was randomly selected. The socio-demographic data reveals that most respondents are in their forties, have completed primary education, have small families, earn a moderate income, own marginal farms, possess their own land, and have around 20 years of farming experience. However, they lack training and have limited exposure and knowledge about current agricultural technology. The findings indicate that farmers in the research area use a limited number of modern technologies, such as paddy threshers, tractors, water pumps, engine sprayers, power tillers, modern ploughs, and hybrid crops. Despite this, farmers exhibit an enthusiastic attitude toward technology adoption, with the majority expressing moderately favorable attitudes. The study identifies bias among authorities, insufficient government support, and a lack of training facilities as significant barriers to the adoption of modern technology. Furthermore, a correlation study reveals a positive association between cosmopoliteness, innovativeness, and farmers' knowledge and their attitude. These findings provide valuable insights into the factors influencing farmers' attitudes towards modern agricultural technology and can inform interventions to promote its adoption in the region.