A Study on the Factors Influencing the Adoption of Good Agricultural Practices among Farmer Members of Farmer Producer Companies in Different Agroclimatic Regions of Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Aims: To investigate the factors influencing the adoption of Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) among farmer members of Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) in Tamil Nadu, focusing on compliance and awareness levels across various GAP components. Study Design: This study utilized a cross-sectional survey to assess the compliance, awareness level among various GAP components across different agro-climatic regions of Tamil Nadu. Place and Duration of Study:The study was conducted across 32 districts of Tamil Nadu, India, encompassing 357 FPCs, and was carried out over a period of six months. Methodology: A total of 160 farmers, selected randomly from the surveyed FPCs, participated in the study. Data were gathered through structured interviews, focusing on their awareness and implementation of GAPs, including water quality management, soil health management, field cleanliness, and hygienic facilities. The survey also examined the challenges faced by farmers in adopting GAPs, such as high production costs, residue testing, and certification issues. Results: The findings revealed that 90% of the participants were aware of GAPs, but only 47% practiced water quality management, and 55% adhered to soil health management. Compliance was higher for field cleanliness (71%) and hygienic facilities (73%). Major barriers identified included high production costs (67%) and difficulties with residue testing and certification (68%). Awareness of potential contamination sources was low, with only 41% and 51% recognizing soil and water contamination, respectively. Cold storage awareness was particularly low at 26%. Conclusion: The study thereby recommends the need to address the identified barriers to help promote sustainable farming practices and ensure broader adoption of GAPs across the region thereby contributing to agricultural development in Tamil Nadu.