Significance Of Information Sources In Adoption Of Best Management Practices For Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

In an era marked by growing environmental concerns and the need for efficient, eco-friendly farming methods, access to reliable and up-to-date information plays a pivotal role in shaping the practices of modern farming. Information sources, such as government agricultural extension services, research institutions and online resources provide farmers with essential knowledge about cutting-edge techniques, eco-friendly approaches and sustainable BMPs. This information equips farmers with the tools they need to optimize their crop yields while minimizing environmental impact. Moreover, it fosters a culture of continuous learning and adaptation, enabling the agricultural community to stay ahead of emerging challenges and changes in the industry. Finally, the availability and accessibility of credible information sources are the cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, ensuring that farmers can make informed decisions that benefit both their livelihoods and the planet. Keeping this in view, there exists a dire need to study the adoption status of best management practices (BMPs) for sustainable agriculture development among farmers. The present study w[1]as conducted in Punjab-Pakistan. From Whole province three districts i.e. Sheikhupura, Hafizabad and Gujranwala were selected as purposefully. From each selected district, two tehsils were selected randomly. From each selected tehsil, two union councils were selected at random while two villages were also selected using random sampling procedure from each selected union council. From each selected village, 15 farmers were selected at random, thereby making a total sample size of 360 respondents. The study concluded that fellow farmers and progressive growers were ranked at the top among the various direct contact sources of information helpful in the adoption of BMPs for sustainable agriculture as perceived by the farmers. Agricultural helpline, electronic media (TV/Radio) and social media were the most important mass contact sources of information helpful in the adoption of BMPs for sustainable agriculture as perceived by the farmers. Agricultural extension department, research stations/centers and agricultural banks (ZTBL) were the leading public organizations’ sources of information helpful in the adoption of BMPs for sustainable agriculture as perceived by the farmers. Pesticide companies, sugar mills and input-supply dealers were ranked at the top among the various private organizations’ source of information helpful in the adoption of BMPs for sustainable agriculture as perceived by the farmers. The awareness level of farmers about BMPs was significantly dependent on information sources helpful in the adoption of BMPs. Keeping in view the major findings, it can be recommended to develop and promote mobile applications, online platforms and social media channels dedicated to sustainable agriculture and ensure that these digital tools are user-friendly and accessible even in remote areas with limited internet connectivity. Further, invest in agricultural research to continuously develop and refine BMPs and ensure that findings are promptly translated into practical guidelines and timely disseminated to farmers.