DefinePK

Research Objective

To compare the information deficiency among registered and non-registered vegetable farmers in the peri-urban areas of district Lahore and to explore the constraining factors making farmers information deficient.

Methodology

Quantitative study involving 360 vegetable growers (180 registered and 180 non-registered) in peri-urban areas of Lahore. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews using a validated and structured interview schedule. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) with T-statistics applied to compare information deficiency.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A[Define Research Objectives] --> B[Identify Study Population: Registered & Non-Registered Vegetable Growers in Peri-urban Lahore];
    B --> C[Sample Selection: 180 Registered, 180 Non-Registered];
    C --> D[Develop & Validate Interview Schedule];
    D --> E[Conduct Face-to-Face Interviews];
    E --> F[Data Collection];
    F --> G[Data Analysis using SPSS];
    G --> H[Apply T-statistics to Compare Information Deficiency];
    H --> I[Analyze Constraining Factors];
    I --> J[Draw Conclusions & Recommendations];                    

Discussion

The study highlights that registered farmers, likely due to their participation in projects like F&VDP, possess better access to information and consequently exhibit less information deficiency. This suggests that expanding such programs can help reduce information gaps. The identified constraints, such as lack of motivation and access to resources, are critical barriers that need to be addressed to improve information dissemination and adoption of modern agricultural practices.

Key Findings

Information deficiency was found to be higher among non-registered farmers compared to registered farmers. Highly significant mean differences (P=0.000) were observed in information regarding seed rate, seed selection, sowing methods, and land preparation. Significant differences (P<0.05) were found for nursery raising, irrigation application, fertilizer application, and varieties. Sowing time, transplanting, maintenance of plant population, insect/pest/disease identification, insect/pest management, and harvesting showed no significant mean difference. Lack of participation in extension activities, access to resources, and lack of motivation were significant constraints (P<0.05) in accessing information.

Conclusion

Information deficiency exists among vegetable growers in peri-urban Lahore, impacting vegetable yields. Registered growers generally have less information deficiency than non-registered growers. Alleviating this deficiency requires integrating modern information dissemination tools, increasing access to extension services, and motivating farmers through greater involvement in extension activities.

Fact Check

1. A total of 360 vegetable growers participated in the study, with 180 registered and 180 non-registered. (Confirmed in Abstract)
2. T-statistics indicated a highly significant mean difference (P=0.000) between registered and non-registered growers for information regarding seed rate, seed selection, sowing methods, and land preparation. (Confirmed in Abstract and Table 2)
3. Lack of participation of farmers in extension activities, access to resources, and lack of motivation were identified as significant constraints (P<0.05). (Confirmed in Abstract)

Mind Map