Assessing the Public Perceptions of Media Coverage for Pesticides Use in the Agriculture Sector of India

Abstract

Present research employs a survey method to explore the intricate relationship between media exposures and public perceptions of pesticide use in agriculture. A well-structured Google questionnaire was shared for data collection from the participants belonging to the northern district of Haryana, encompassing Panchkula, Ambala, Yamunanagar, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, and Karnal. A total 350 respondents participated in the online survey. The study reveals that the respondents who perceive media coverage as balanced are more likely to express concerns about pesticide use. The study tries to find out the degree of concern, trust, accuracy, and statistical significance. In terms of the perception influenced by media portrayals on pesticide use, a significant association is observed (Chi-square = 41.029, p < 0.0001). The analysis of media sources accuracy reveals a statistically significant association (Chi-square = 58.156, p < 0.0001). Respondents who perceived media sources as "Very accurate" reported higher levels of concern about pesticide use in agricultural practices, emphasizing the impact of perceived media accuracy on public concerns about pesticide use. The study found a strong link between media influence and the level of concern regarding pesticide use.