Farmer awareness and adoption on good agricultural practices (gap) in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Good Agriculture Practices (GAP) are more important to get higher income in crop production. GAP involves economic viability, social acceptability, sustainability of environment and food safety and quality factors. Most of farmers are not aware of the advantages of GAP At Present, some farmers involved in GAP certification programme. Officials of the department of agriculture are conducting awareness programmes on GAP all over the Island. The study based on a survey which was carried out in Batticaloa, Ampara, Polanaruwa, Monaragale and Anuradhapura district to find out hundred respondents registered commercial fruits cultivation farmers were randomly selected and a primary survey was conducted during January – May 2020 using a structured questionnaire. Farmer’s knowledge on GAP program, and its elements perception and adaption GAP by farmers, factors affecting farmer’s eligibility to apply for GAP certification measured. A probity model was estimated to identify determinants of a farmer being eligible for GAP certification. In determining the variables affecting the GAP eligibility a value of 1 is assigned for farmers who were eligible and a value of 0 was assigned for farmers who were not eligible. The results of the estimation showed that there is not statistically significant relationship between eligibility and age, perception score, land ownership, and farming experience. Farmers’ knowledge of GAP certification and land extent positively and significantly on farmer eligibility. It was revealed that commercial farmers have good awareness of GAP. More attention should be paid to their knowledge on soil test-based fertilizer application. Specific area such as fertilizer use Integrated Plant Nutrient System but Raise adaptation, perception on ownership of land, Farming experience and farmers knowledge on GAP certification and provision of subsidy will lead to more adaptation of GAP.