The Role of Agricultural Technology in Attaining Food Security among Small Farmers in Char Area in Mymensingh District

Abstract

Farmers in the char areas of Bangladesh are frequently affected by food insecurity due to their low engagement in modern agriculture such as less use of modern agricultural technology. This study evaluates the socio-demographic characteristics of the sample farmers to assess their nutritional status and the factors influencing char dwellers' dietary diversity. Survey data were collected from 70 households, and focus group discussions were conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire from Nilokhiya char under the Mymensingh District of Bangladesh. An OLS regression model was used to estimate the influence of socioeconomic characteristics of sample households on the decision on factors influencing dietary diversity. The farming type of the farmers is another concern of this study where results show that 90% of farmers in the char areas rely on rice and vegetable farming, whereas more than 60% of the farmers are also involved in livestock and poultry farming at the same time. The nutritional status of char farmers shows that their diet includes a variety of foods but is deficient insufficient protein and healthy fats, which could have an impact on their overall nutrition. Cereals are a staple in the diet, as indicated by the high consumption rate (97.1%) and the substantial average intake (2.30 kg/day). Every household consumes fruits, though in smaller quantities (0.28 kg/day). Eggs are less frequently consumed (57.1%) despite a higher intake (2.64 kg/day). Dietary diversity has a strong positive correlation with supply (.913) at a 1 % significant level which means that efficient supply chains minimize delays, reduce spoilage, and ensure a continuous flow of food to markets to ensure food security. A positive correlation with total income (.373) leads to a higher total income also supports greater dietary diversity. Credit was significant at a 5% level (.267) indicating that a 1 % increase in credit leads to an increase in dietary diversity by 267%. On the contrary, Experience has a negative relationship with dietary diversity which means that experience does not influence food security. Lack of transport and communication, environmental hazards, and natural disasters are the most significant problems faced by the farmers in the char area.