Determinants of Farmers’ Level Crop Productivity at Dumki Upazila under Patuakhali District

Abstract

The major aims of this study were mainly to determine and describe the extent of farmers’ crop productivity and also explore the relationship between the 12 selected characteristics of the farmers with their crop productivity level. The study was designed with a mixed-method approach where both qualitative and quantitative analyses are blended in a rational way to have a deeper understanding of research problems. The study was conducted in Dumki Upazilla under Patuakhali district, Bangladesh. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 110 farmers except landless engaged in crop production. Data were collected by face to face interview using a pre-tested interview schedule during the period from March 10 to April 15, 2016. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical measures and computer software like SPSS. Pearson's Product Moment coefficient of correlation results showed that out of 12 independent variables, the correlation coefficients of 7 variables had a positive and significant relationship with their level of crop productivity. The stepwise multiple regression analyses stated that only 4 variables such as communication exposure, innovativeness, risk orientation and training experience had a significant contribution to the farmers' crop productivity level and also accounted for 52.8 per cent of the total variation in productivity index. This study also showed some problems which were faced by the farmers during crop production. If these problems can be solved, the farmers’ crop productivity level will be increased.