Factors Influencing Rice Farmers’ Interest in Certified in Gatarang Subdistrict, Bulukumba, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Abstract

Rice is a crucial commodity in Indonesia, with its production being vital to both the agricultural sector and food security.Despite the benefits of using certified rice seeds-such as improved quality, uniform growth, and resistance to peststheir adoption remains low among farmers in Gantarang Subdistrict, Bulukumba Regency.Certified seeds are critical to increasing rice productivity, yet data from 2017-2021 show that only 391,270 kg of certified seeds were distributed, falling far short of actual demand.This study aims to analyze the factors influencing farmers' interest in certified rice seeds and to examine the effects on their income and productivity.Using a quantitative approach, surveys were conducted among 195 farmers, focusing on variables such as age, education, land size, income, seed price, seed quality, variety, productivity, pest resistance, and ease of access.Logistic regression analysis was used to assess these factors.The results reveal that factors such as age, education, land size, income, seed quality, productivity, and ease of access significantly influence farmers' interest in certified seeds.Older, more educated farmers with larger landholdings and higher incomes are more likely to adopt certified seeds, particularly when seed quality and access are favorable.In contrast, factors like farming experience, seed price, variety type, and harvest time had no significant impact on their decisions.The study concludes that increasing the use of certified seeds requires improving seed accessibility, enhancing awareness through extension programs, and addressing financial barriers.These efforts can lead to greater adoption, thereby boosting rice productivity and farmer incomes in the region.

Access to Document

Other files and links

• Link to publication in Scopus
• Open Access Version Available

Fingerprint