DefinePK

Abstract

The present research focuses on identifying the challenges faced by sugarcane growers in adopting recommended production practices in the Naushahro Feroze district. Five villages were selected from the Talukas of Moro and Naushahro Feroze through a multistage sampling technique, and a random sample of 75 farmers was drawn from the study area. Data were collected using a multistage sampling plan. Results revealed that a majority of respondents (60%) were aware that proper land ploughing contributes to yield stability. Regarding fertilizer application timing, most respondents had only partial knowledge, while 70% demonstrated complete knowledge about irrigating fields every 10–15 days. Findings also indicated that 40% of respondents adopted appropriate land preparation practices. The major constraints reported by farmers included the high cost of fertilizers, lack of access to credit facilities, and the unavailability of fertilizers in the required quantities. In light of these constraints, respondents suggested providing credit at lower interest rates and in a timely manner, reducing the cost of complex fertilizers, and conducting demonstration trials on sustainable cultivation practices in sugarcane to validate their effectiveness. They also recommended that sugar factories adhere to proper varietal harvesting schedules, organize training programs on sustainable cultivation practices, and ensure the availability of pest- and disease-resistant varieties through sugar factories and research stations. Additional suggestions included organizing group discussions, arranging exposure visits to educate growers on sustainable practices, and establishing sugarcane grower clubs to facilitate regular meetings with scientists and progressive farmers.