A Comparative Study of Farmer Perception towards Organic Farming Practices: Evidence from Keonjhar and Kendrapara Districts of Odisha, India

Abstract

Organic farming is promoted as a sustainable alternative to conventional agriculture, but its adoption depends strongly on farmers’ perceptions of feasibility, profitability and benefits. This study examined vegetable farmers’ perceptions of organic farming practices in Keonjhar and Kendrapara districts of Odisha, India. An ex-post facto research design was used, and data were collected from 400 respondents selected through multistage sampling. Farmers’ perceptions were measured using a structured interview schedule comprising 25 statements across five domains: production practices, environmental and health benefits, economic viability and profitability, certification and policy support, and market access and consumer demand. The instrument showed high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.89). Results indicated strong positive perceptions of the environmental and health benefits of organic farming, particularly soil fertility improvement (overall mean = 4.45) and residue-free food production (overall mean = 4.46). However, perceptions of economic viability, certification, training and market infrastructure were comparatively moderate. Welch’s t-test showed significant inter-district differences across all domains (p < 0.001), with Kendrapara farmers reporting a more favourable overall perception (mean = 4.07) than Keonjhar farmers (mean = 3.26). The largest difference was observed in economic viability and profitability (t = 40.63). The Perception Gap Index was higher in Keonjhar (34.47%) than in Kendrapara (26.32%), with a pooled value of 30.07%. Overall, 58.50% of respondents fell in the medium perception category. The findings suggest that farmer-oriented training, simplified certification procedures and stronger organic marketing channels are needed to reduce perception gaps and support informed adoption decisions.