Rooting for Change: Unveiling Farmers' Bio-input Awareness and Knowledge Across Tamil Nadu's Agro-climatic Zones

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this research is to analyse farmers' awareness and knowledge towards bio-inputs across six agro-climatic zones in Tamil Nadu, India. Study Design: The study used an ex post facto research strategy with multistage random sampling. Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted in eight districts spanning six agro-climatic zones of Tamil Nadu. Data was collected between December 2023 to April 2024 using a well-structured interview schedule. Methodology: A total of 240 farmers were surveyed, with 30 drawn from each of the eight districts. Participants were selected via snowball sampling. Data was gathered through structured interviews and evaluated using percentage analysis. Results: The survey found that 55.56% of farmers across all districts were highly aware of bio-inputs, 26.64% were somewhat knowledgeable, and 17.79% were unaware. Thoothukudi district had the highest awareness rate (68%), followed by Thanjavur (66.66%) and Villupuram (64%). Kodaikanal was the outlier, with the lowest high awareness (24.50%) and the greatest low awareness (39.50%). The research identified various factors influencing these variances, including the efficacy of extension services, access to knowledge and resources, demonstration programs, peer influence, and socio-economic status. Conclusion: The data show a significant gap between farmers' awareness and in-depth understanding of bio-inputs such as Rhizobium, Azotobacter, and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB), with noticeable regional differences. While overall awareness is good, the prevalence of medium knowledge levels suggests the need for additional practical, hands-on training and continuing education programs. This can be achieved through region-specific initiatives, including on-farm demonstrations, farmer-to-farmer knowledge sharing, and collaboration with local agricultural universities. Addressing these challenges has the potential to promote sustainable farming methods, ensuring food security and environmental health across Tamil Nadu's diverse agro-climatic zones.