Information Sources as Tool for Solving Farmers Problems in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Pakistan)

Abstract

Information transmission among the researchers, extension worker and farmers is of great importance for agricultural development. Proper dissemination and adoption of modern technologies can increase agricultural productivity and solve farming problems. Poor contact with information sources results in poor transfer of information among farming community. The study examines the role of different information sources in solving farmers’ problems. A well-structured and pre-tested interview schedule was administered to a total of 240 sample farmers from 4 randomly selected districts of KPK namely, Bannu, Mansehra, Mardan and Swat during June-July 2011. Data was analyzed through SPSS using percentages, graph and Chi-square test. The results showed significant association between extension contact and farmers awareness about modern technologies. The major source of information was the pesticide dealers followed by fellow farmers. The role of extension worker as information source remained far behind their expected role as reported by only 33% of the sample farmers. Farmers were confronted with numerous problems and seek the solution of problems through different sources. Again, pesticide dealers/staff of Pesticide Company (80%) provided the solution of problems, followed by fellow farmers (27%) and extension worker (22%). This showed the poor and negligible role of extension agent in solving farmers’ problems. There is a need for strong linkages for effective and efficient flow of information through extension services to the end-users.