Farmer knowledge and practices on technology transfer and farm mechanization in rural areas of Southern Punjab

Abstract

Modern agricultural technologies have much potential in increasing the crop yield. The purpose of the study was to measure knowledge of the farmers and practices towards technology transfer and farm mechanization. The study was conducted during January 2020 in two districts of South Punjab (Layyah and Dera Ghazi Khan). 120 farmers were selected randomly by using a multistage cluster sampling technique. Majority of the respondents agreed that cost of technology, educational level and lack of knowledge of farmers were the main hindrance towards technology transfer and farm mechanization. Extension workers also need to be equipped with modern and updated agricultural technologies. Scarcity of water was also a limiting factor for successful crop production. Although hybrid seed was popular, but promotion of Bt-cotton needs due attention. Modern irrigation techniques like sprinkler, drip irrigation system and solar water pump system needs to be promoted in raising crop yield and saving a lot of water. Growing of off-season vegetable in tunnels is a profitable technique but more that 50% farmers were unaware of this technology. ICT also needs due attention in the study area as maximum farmers had no idea of it.