Farmers’ Purchasing Behaviour of Insecticides in Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) and Problems Faced by Farmers for Cumin in Dhrol Taluka of Jamnagar District, Gujarat, India

Abstract

Background: In agriculture, the use of pesticide has been the dominant form of pest management since the early 1950s to control pest organisms including insects, fungi, weeds and nematodes. In recent times, use of pesticides in cumin cultivation has increased rapidly and this scenario contributes significant impact towards adverse effects on human health, environment and on overall bio-diversity as the cumin crop is among the major growing spices crop in India [1]. Methods: The data collection involved the use of a semi-structured schedule carried out through personal interview method for both cumin farmers and agri-input dealers. The research involved non-prabability sampling technique for primary data collection. The study was conducted in the area of Dhrol taluka of Jamnagar district. The collected data were analysed using various analytical methods, including tabular analysis, Pearson Chi-square test, Garrett's Ranking Technique, and Weighted Average Mean. Finding: The findings indicate that the majority of respondents were middle-aged with a primary level of education. Most of the farmers had land holdings ranging from 1 to 2.5 hectares, and among them, the area dedicated to cumin cultivation was less than 1 hectare. These farmers had an average farming experience of 21 to 30 years. The majority of farmers primarily relied on farming as their occupation, with some also engaging in animal husbandry. In terms of annual income, most farmers earned between 1 to 5 lakh rupees. The study revealed that Price was the primary factor influencing the purchase of pesticides, followed by considerations of Quality and Brand name. Lack of access to credit facilities was identified as the major problem faced by farmers, alongside the high cost of inputs. Among the promotional activities, Demonstration was found to be the most influential in pesticide purchasing decisions, followed by Farmer meetings. For agri-input dealers, the major problems encountered were Low margins, Raising costs, and High competition.