Analysis of Farmers’ Satisfaction on Price and Quality of Crop Protection Chemicals in Paddy Cultivation in Karimnagar District of Telangana State, India

Abstract

This study was conducted in the Karimnagar district of Telangana to evaluate the satisfaction levels of paddy farmers regarding crop protection chemicals, emphasizing their perceptions of product quality and pricing. A sample of 80 paddy farmers was selected using a multistage sampling method from four major paddy-growing mandals: Huzurabad, Jammikunta, Bejjenki, and Kamalapur. The response rate was 100%. Most respondents were middle-aged, experienced farmers cultivating more than 2.5 acres of land. A cross-sectional analytical design was utilized during the 2024 paddy crop cycle, with primary data collected through a structured and pre-determined interview schedule. Satisfaction was evaluated through a Likert scale that gauged perceived product quality and price fairness. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed using R software to assess the impact of these perceptions on overall satisfaction. Results showed that both quality (β = 0.293, P < .001) and price (β = 0.242, P < .001) had a statistically significant impact on satisfaction, accounting for 56.85% of the variation (R² = 0.5685). The model was statistically valid (F = 45.46, P < .001). The findings show that farmers value both the effectiveness and affordability of crop protection products. Regularly gathering feedback from farmers after 2-3 crop cycles provides valuable information about how products perform in real-world conditions. Agrochemical companies should focus on strategies that center around farmers. This includes enhancing quality assurance, adjusting pricing policies, and increasing post-sale engagement to boost satisfaction, adoption, and trust among users.