Farmers knowledge regarding safe handling and application of pesticides in rice crop

Article Information

Title: Farmers knowledge regarding safe handling and application of pesticides in rice crop

Authors: Muhammad Shoaib, Khalid Mahmood Ch, Ijaz Ashraf, Nadeem Akbar

Journal: International Journal of Agricultural Extension (IJAE)

HEC Recognition History

Category	From	To
Y	2024-10-01	2025-12-31
Y	2023-07-01	2024-09-30
Y	2021-07-01	2022-06-30
Y	2020-07-01	2021-06-30

Publisher: DATAPLUS (SMC- Private) Limited

Country: Pakistan

Year: 2023

Volume: 11

Issue: 3

Language: English

DOI: 10.33687/ijae.011.03.3672

Keywords: ricePesticidesKnowledge levelHandlingApplicationPPE

Abstract

Rice is one of the leading food crops in Pakistan and we conducted this study to explore farmers knowledge regarding the safe handling and application of pesticides on rice crop in rice growing district Shiekhupura of Punjab province. A total of 381 randomly selected rice growers were interviewed using a structured, validated and reliable interview schedule administered face-to-face. Collected data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results revealed that 58.5% of respondents were aged between 36 and 50 years, 25.2% o had completed middle-level education,40.4% had more than 25 acres of land, 60.9% were owners of their land and 50.6% had farming experience of 6-10 years. Around 45% reported not considering wind direction while spraying and 66% used mud/soil to clean their hands post-pesticide application. Around 73,2, 66.1 and 73.2% reported the use of goggles, 66.7% trouser suit, 66.1% face masks, 65.4% used boots and 6.6% used overalls for their safety. This study indicates an average level of knowledge and use of Personnel protective equipment (PPEs) against pesticides. However, there is still room to create awareness among those who are not utilizing the PPEs. Along with the dissemination of advisory services through group meetings, and the dissemination of information related to the safe use of pesticides the potential of social media platform and mainstream media can be used.

Disclaimer: The following sections are produced through an intensive multi-stage analytical pipeline developed by DefinePK, utilizing advanced natural-language processing, domain-specific knowledge models, and automated cross-referencing systems. Despite the rigor and computational effort involved, the generated summary may still contain inaccuracies or incomplete interpretations. Users are strongly advised to verify all critical information against the original paper and its authoritative sources.

Research Objective

To explore farmers' knowledge regarding the safe handling and application of pesticides on rice crops in the rice-growing district of Shiekhupura, Punjab province, Pakistan.

Methodology

A quantitative study was conducted with 381 randomly selected rice growers in District Sheikhupura, Punjab, Pakistan. Data were collected using a structured, validated, and reliable interview schedule administered face-to-face. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) with descriptive statistical analysis.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A[Select Study Area: Sheikhupura, Punjab] --> B[Determine Sample Size: 381 rice growers]
    B --> C[Administer Structured Interview Schedule]
    C --> D[Collect Data]
    D --> E[Analyze Data using SPSS]
    E --> F[Draw Conclusions and Recommendations]

Discussion

The study highlights that while farmers are aware of some safety measures, there are significant gaps in their knowledge and practices regarding the safe handling and application of pesticides. The reliance on traditional methods like using mud/soil for hand cleaning and the inconsistent use of PPE suggest a need for enhanced educational interventions. Factors such as age, education, landholding size, and farming experience influence these practices. The findings underscore the importance of disseminating information through various channels, including extension services, group meetings, social media, and mainstream media, to improve pesticide safety.

Key Findings

- A significant portion of respondents (58.5%) were aged between 36 and 50 years.
- 25.2% had completed middle-level education, and 40.4% owned more than 25 acres of land.
- 60.9% were landowners, and 50.6% had 6-10 years of farming experience.
- Approximately 45% did not consider wind direction while spraying pesticides.
- 66% used mud/soil to clean their hands after pesticide application.
- Usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) varied: 73.2% used goggles, 66.7% used trousers/suits, 66.1% used face masks, 65.4% used boots, and 6.6% used overalls.
- The study indicated an average level of knowledge and use of PPE against pesticides, with room for improvement in awareness and utilization.

Conclusion

Farmers in the study area possess an average level of knowledge regarding pesticide use, often leaning towards traditional approaches. There is a notable deficiency in adhering to recommended sanitary measures, such as proper handwashing, and in the consistent use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This indicates a critical need for increased awareness and training programs to promote the safe and effective use of pesticides, thereby mitigating potential health and environmental risks.

Fact Check

- Sample Size: 381 randomly selected rice growers were interviewed. (Confirmed in text)
- Age Distribution: 58.5% of respondents were aged between 36 and 50 years. (Confirmed in text)
- PPE Usage (Goggles): 73.2% reported the use of goggles. (Confirmed in text)

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