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Research Article
Socio-Economic Status of Fennel Growers in Bharatpur District of Rajasthan
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
68-75
Received:
1 January 2026
Accepted:
15 January 2026
Published:
30 March 2026
Abstract: The study was conducted during the year 2020–21 in Veerampura village of Bharatpur district, Rajasthan, with the objective of assessing the socio-economic status of fennel growers and estimating the costs and returns associated with fennel cultivation across different farm sizes. The area falls under the flood-prone Eastern Plain Zone (3B) of Rajasthan, known for its agro-climatic diversity. A total of 46 fennel growers were selected using purposive non-random sampling, classified into marginal, small, medium, and large farm categories. The study was based on primary data and included variables such as landholding size, family composition, literacy levels, and fixed asset distribution. The study found that the average farm size was 2.14 hectares, with landholdings ranging from 0.67 ha in marginal to 4.41 ha in large farms. The average family size was 5.43 members, and male members formed the majority of the agricultural labor force. Literacy levels were relatively high, with only 17.68% of the farm population being illiterate; marginal farms had the highest literacy rate. Fixed asset values per farm averaged ₹2,17,731.12, increasing with farm size. However, the per hectare value of fixed assets was highest among marginal farms (₹2,35,563), reflecting a more intensive use of resources. Livestock contributed the highest share to fixed assets, followed by machinery and buildings. The analysis concluded that farm size significantly influences socio-economic outcomes. Marginal and small farmers, despite having limited land, exhibited greater mechanization and literacy levels, whereas larger farms benefited from economies of scale but faced higher dependency ratios. These insights are critical for designing effective policies focused on improving resource utilization, income generation, and educational outreach in fennel-growing regions. The ANOVA results found significant differences between the farm-size groups for all the major variables. The findings highlight the need for targeted support to marginal and smallholder farmers to enhance productivity and income.
Abstract: The study was conducted during the year 2020–21 in Veerampura village of Bharatpur district, Rajasthan, with the objective of assessing the socio-economic status of fennel growers and estimating the costs and returns associated with fennel cultivation across different farm sizes. The area falls under the flood-prone Eastern Plain Zone (3B) of Rajas...
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Review Article
Empirical Literature Review on Determinants of Farmers' Access to Agricultural Credit in Ethiopia
Lemma Gutema*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
76-82
Received:
8 March 2026
Accepted:
25 March 2026
Published:
7 April 2026
Abstract: Agriculture plays a fundamental role in Ethiopia’s economy, serving as the main source of livelihood for a large proportion of the rural population. The sector contributes significantly to employment, food supply, and income generation. Nevertheless, its overall performance remains constrained by several structural challenges, among which limited access to agricultural credit is particularly critical for smallholder farmers. This study provides a comprehensive review of existing empirical studies to explore the factors that determine farmers’ access to agricultural credit in Ethiopia and to examine its implications for farm performance. A systematic review methodology was used, drawing on evidence from peer-reviewed journal articles, institutional publications, and reports. The review identifies a range of factors that influence credit accessibility. These include socio-demographic characteristics such as gender, human capital attributes, and farming experience, as well as economic factors. In addition, institutional factors as well as physical factors play an important role in shaping farmers’ ability to obtain credit. Furthermore, the evidence consistently showed that access to agricultural credit was associated with improvements in farm productivity and household income. However, disparities in access persist, with women and resource-poor farmers facing greater barriers to financial services, thereby limiting their capacity to benefit from credit opportunities. Therefore, strengthening inclusive rural financial systems is essential for improving agricultural productivity, enhancing market integration, and supporting long-term agricultural development in Ethiopia. Furthermore, policy intervention should prioritize expanding financial service coverage, addressing structural constraints, and reinforcing institutional support systems to ensure that rural household farmers can access credit on equitable terms.
Abstract: Agriculture plays a fundamental role in Ethiopia’s economy, serving as the main source of livelihood for a large proportion of the rural population. The sector contributes significantly to employment, food supply, and income generation. Nevertheless, its overall performance remains constrained by several structural challenges, among which limited a...
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Research Article
Determinants of Improved Maize Variety Adoption and Its Impact on Smallholder Farm Productivity Evidence from Gesha Woreda, Southwest Ethiopia
Netsanet Gizaw*,
Mathiwos Kifle
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
83-95
Received:
19 January 2026
Accepted:
23 March 2026
Published:
13 April 2026
Abstract: Despite the availability of improved maize varieties in Ethiopia, adoption among smallholder farmers remains uneven, contributing to persistent yield gaps. This study investigates the determinants of improved maize variety adoption and its impact on smallholder farm productivity in Gesha Woreda, Southwest Ethiopia. Using cross-sectional household survey data, a binary logit model is employed to identify factors influencing farmers’ adoption decisions. To address potential selection bias arising from observable differences between adopters and non-adopters, Propensity Score Matching (PSM) were applied to estimate the causal effect of adoption on maize productivity. Multiple matching algorithms, including nearest neighbor, radius, and kernel matching, are used to assess the robustness of the estimated treatment effects. Descriptive results indicate significant differences between adopters and non-adopters in age, education, farm size, farming experience, and credit access. Logit model results show that the sex of the household head, education level, farm size, farming experience, access to credit, and distance to markets significantly affect adoption decisions. PSM results revealed that adopters produce significantly higher maize yields than non-adopters, confirming the positive effect of IMV adoption. The results underscore the need for policies that expand farmer access to extension services and rural credit, strengthen dissemination of improved seed technologies, and enhance farmers’ human capital through education and training programs to accelerate adoption and improve smallholder productivity.
Abstract: Despite the availability of improved maize varieties in Ethiopia, adoption among smallholder farmers remains uneven, contributing to persistent yield gaps. This study investigates the determinants of improved maize variety adoption and its impact on smallholder farm productivity in Gesha Woreda, Southwest Ethiopia. Using cross-sectional household s...
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Research Article
The Role of Climate-Smart Agricultural Lending in Improving Food Security in Palestine: An Empirical Study of Sustainable Rural Finance
Haroon Mohammed Alataweneh*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
96-100
Received:
21 January 2026
Accepted:
10 February 2026
Published:
13 April 2026
Abstract: Food security in Palestine is increasingly threatened by climate change, water scarcity, political instability, and limited access to appropriate agricultural finance. Smallholder farmers face growing production risks while lacking the financial capacity to invest in resilient and sustainable farming systems. Climate-smart agricultural lending (CSAL) has emerged as an innovative rural finance mechanism that integrates climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and productivity enhancement within agricultural credit systems. This study empirically examines the role of climate-smart agricultural lending in improving food security outcomes in Palestine. Primary data were collected from smallholder farmers, agricultural cooperatives, and rural financial institutions across selected governorates in the West Bank using structured questionnaires. Econometric regression analysis and propensity score matching were applied to assess the impact of CSAL on adoption of climate-smart practices, income stability, and household food security measured by the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS). The results show that access to climate-smart agricultural credit significantly enhances farmers’ adoption of sustainable practices, reduces climate-related production risks, and improves household food availability and access. The study concludes that strengthening climate-smart rural finance frameworks can play a vital role in supporting climate-resilient agriculture and long-term food security in fragile and resource-constrained contexts such as Palestine.
Abstract: Food security in Palestine is increasingly threatened by climate change, water scarcity, political instability, and limited access to appropriate agricultural finance. Smallholder farmers face growing production risks while lacking the financial capacity to invest in resilient and sustainable farming systems. Climate-smart agricultural lending (CSA...
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Research Article
Nematicidal Potential of Neem (Azadirachtaindica A. Juss) Based Products Against Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) and Yield Enhancement in Tomato
Mohammed Iqbal Faruk*,
Shamim Akhter,
Rummana Islam,
Ferdous-E-Elahi,
Tasfia Hassan Tabassum,
Alamgir Siddiky
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
101-110
Received:
30 September 2025
Accepted:
18 November 2025
Published:
23 April 2026
Abstract: Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) is one of the most destructive soil-borne pathogens that severely affect tomato (Solanumlycopersicum L.) production worldwide including Bangladesh, causing significant yield losses. The present study was conducted to evaluate the nematicidal potential of neem (Azadirachtaindica A. Juss) based products for the management of M. incognita and their effects on tomato growth and yield under both pot culture and field conditions during 2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20 and 2020-21 cropping seas. Different neem formulations, including neem seed extract, neem leaf extract, neem oil, and commercial neem cake, were applied artificial root knot nematode infested soil amendment. In pot housecondition, all neem based product was effective against root knot nematode and increased plant growth parameters. In the field condition, results revealed that all neem products significantly reduced root-knot gall index, and increased plant growth parameters such as shoot and root growth as well as fruit number and yield of tomato compared to the untreated control. Among the tested treatments, neem oil cake and neem seed extract treatment exhibited the best nematicidal activity, with a reduction in gall index and remarkable improvement in plant height, shoot weight, root weight, fruit number, and total yield of tomato. Neem leaf extract, neem leaf powder and chemical nematicideFuradan 5G treatments also performed better in reduction of gall index, improving plant growth and yield of tomato compared to untreated control. These findings suggest that neem-based products, particularly neem oil cake and neem seed extract, are effective, eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic nematicides for sustainable root-knot nematode management and yield improvement in tomato production systems.
Abstract: Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) is one of the most destructive soil-borne pathogens that severely affect tomato (Solanumlycopersicum L.) production worldwide including Bangladesh, causing significant yield losses. The present study was conducted to evaluate the nematicidal potential of neem (Azadirachtaindica A. Juss) based products for ...
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Research Article
Environmental and Economic Role of Community Protected Area with Integration of Management Practices and Protein Bank in West Arsi Zone Oromia Region Ethiopia
Meseret Tilahun*,
Gemeda Terfassa
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
111-116
Received:
23 February 2026
Accepted:
10 April 2026
Published:
29 April 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.sda.20260102.16
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Abstract: This study explored how community-based protected areas in the West Arsi Zone of Oromia, specifically Negele Arsi sub-district, can be strengthened environmentally and economically through the integration of protein bank trees and improved management practices. The main purpose was to assess the ecological and economic advantages of incorporating protein-rich leguminous trees within community-managed conservation lands. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four treatments, including a control, each replicated three times. Individual plots measured 5 m × 5 m, with spacing of 1.5 m between blocks and 1 m between plots. Seedlings of tree legumes were raised in nurseries at ATARC and transplanted for field establishment. Agronomic data were collected, integrated tree plantings were carried out, and fresh biomass was measured to evaluate dry matter yield, nutrient content, and the contribution of protein bank trees. Subsamples of fresh biomass were taken for laboratory analysis. Samples were oven-dried at 60°C for 48 hours, ground, sieved (1 mm mesh), and analyzed for dry matter (DM), ash, and crude protein (CP) following standard procedures. Ash content was determined at 550°C for 3 hours using a carbolite furnace, while CP was analyzed using the Kjeldahl method. Fiber fractions including NDF, ADF, and ADL were also determined. Data were organized in Microsoft Excel and statistically analyzed using SAS version 9.2, with mean separation carried out using the Fisher’s LSD test at a 5% significance level. Results showed that integrating leguminous fodder trees into natural protected areas significantly affected ash content, organic matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber. These findings indicate that multipurpose tree legumes enhance both the quality and quantity of available forage resources in protected areas. Consequently, incorporating such trees can help address feed shortages by improving crude protein and organic matter levels. Further research is needed on optimal harvesting intervals and biomass yield of integrated tree legumes.
Abstract: This study explored how community-based protected areas in the West Arsi Zone of Oromia, specifically Negele Arsi sub-district, can be strengthened environmentally and economically through the integration of protein bank trees and improved management practices. The main purpose was to assess the ecological and economic advantages of incorporating p...
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Research Article
The Paradox of Jhum Cultivation in Arunachal Pradesh:
A Contestation Between Livelihood Rights and Sustainable Development
Sukamal Deb*,
Puneet Kumar
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
117-128
Received:
9 December 2025
Accepted:
29 December 2025
Published:
29 April 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.sda.20260102.17
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Jhum cultivation is an indigenous agricultural practice followed by some tribal communities in Arunachal Pradesh. It involves burning trees and vegetation to clear plots of land for growing crops. This form of cultivation is closely linked with the traditions, customs, and knowledge systems of the communities that practise it. The present study aims to examine the practice of Jhum cultivation in Arunachal Pradesh, drawing attention to the indigenous knowledge and traditional farming methods associated with it. The paper also addresses the conflict between preserving cultural ethos and confronting the growing ecological unsustainability of Jhum cultivation within current environmental and development policy frameworks. These issues are at the heart of the current socio-economic dynamics in the tribal polluted areas, hence they are important to be acknowledged and resolved for devising effective policies that support sustainable life forms and dignified livelihoods. While the focus area is Arunachal Pradesh, references from other Northeastern states where Jhum is practised have also been included. An attempt is made to understand how Jhum cultivators can be encouraged to shift towards other sustainable practices without compromising their livelihood rights. The paper stresses the need for a realistic and community-based approach in addressing the issue of Jhum cultivation. This paper contributes to proposing the alternative paradigm of leading development through the inclusive participation of the indigenous communities in India.
Abstract: Jhum cultivation is an indigenous agricultural practice followed by some tribal communities in Arunachal Pradesh. It involves burning trees and vegetation to clear plots of land for growing crops. This form of cultivation is closely linked with the traditions, customs, and knowledge systems of the communities that practise it. The present study aim...
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