Attitude and Awareness of Farmers towards the use of Chemical Fertilizers in Agriculture

 Attitude and Awareness of Farmers towards the use of Chemical Fertilizers in Agriculture

Anjana Abraham

Final year B.Ed Student, Avila college of Education, Edakochi

Abstract

This research project investigates the attitudes and awareness of farmers towards chemical fertilizers in agriculture, focusing on a comprehensive study conducted in the Aluva region of Ernakulam district, Kerala. By surveying 25 farmers from Keezhmad, Choondy, and Chunangamvely, the study explores farmers' knowledge, perceptions, and practices related to chemical fertilizer usage. The research employed a quantitative survey method, utilizing a structured 25-question questionnaire to gather detailed insights. Key findings reveal that 84% of farmers understand different fertilizer types, 100% recognize potential harmful effects, and 80% prefer mixed fertilizers. The study highlights significant variations in farmers' awareness, attitudes, and challenges surrounding chemical fertilizer application. Major objectives included analyzing farmers' awareness levels, investigating their attitudes, examining perceptions of fertilizer impacts, and identifying challenges and misconceptions. The research contributes crucial insights into sustainable agricultural practices and farmer decision-making processes.

Keywords: Chemical Fertilizers, Agricultural Awareness, Farmer Attitudes, Sustainable Agriculture, Nutrient Management

Introduction

Chemical fertilizers have become an integral component of modern agricultural practices, significantly enhancing crop yields and contributing to global food security. However, their application is complex, influenced by farmers' attitudes, awareness, and understanding of potential environmental and economic implications. This study emerges from the critical need to understand farmers' perspectives on chemical fertilizer usage. While these agricultural inputs offer substantial productivity benefits, they simultaneously pose potential risks to soil health, water quality, and biodiversity. The research aims to bridge knowledge gaps by exploring farmers' perceptions, challenges, and decision-making processes.

1.4 Objectives of the Study

The objectives of the study are,

1. To analyze the level of awareness among farmers about the types and effects of    chemical fertilizers.   

2. To investigate the attitude of farmers towards the use of chemical fertilizers.

3. To examine the perception of farmers on the impact of chemical fertilizers.

4. To identify the challenges and misconception related to the use of chemical fertilizers among farmers.

Hypotheses of the Study

1. Farmers have a moderate to low level of awareness about the types and effects of chemical fertilizers, which is influenced by factors such as their education level, farming experience, and access to agricultural extension services.

2. Farmers' attitudes towards the use of chemical fertilizers are positively influenced by their perceived benefits, while cost implications and farming practices serve as significant moderating factors.

3. Farmers' perceptions of the impact of chemical fertilizers are influenced by their level of awareness, farming experiences, and exposure to information about the benefits and risks of fertilizer use.

4. Farmers face significant challenges and hold misconceptions regarding the use of chemical fertilizers, including issues such as over-dependence, inadequate knowledge of proper application methods, and a lack of awareness about the environmental and health risks associated with their use.

Methodology

As part of the project to examine the attitude and awareness of farmers regarding the use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture, the investigator conducted a survey in the localities of Keezhmad, Choondy, and Chunangamvely in Ernakulam district. The project follows a quantitative research approach.

Survey method was conducted among farmers to assess their attitudes and awareness regarding the use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture. The primary objective was to understand their knowledge of fertilizer types, their perceived effects, and any misconceptions or challenges they faced. The study targeted farmers from Keezhmad, Choondy, and Chunangamvely, located in the Aluva region of Ernakulam District.

A total of 25 farmers were randomly selected for the survey. Most of the participants belonged to the age group of 50 and above, with one exception, a farmer aged 40. Due to the limited number of farmers available in Keezhmad, additional participants were included from the nearby areas of Choondy and Chunangamvely to ensure an adequate sample size and diversity in responses.

To gain a deeper understanding of the optimal use of chemical fertilizers, a preliminary visit was made to the Keezhmad Krishibhavan. Relevant information about fertilizer use, its effects, and best practices was collected during this visit. This background research provided a foundational understanding that informed the preparation of the questionnaire.

The survey data was collected through personal interviews with the farmers using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of 25 questions designed to gather detailed insights. The questions were divided into the following categories, Basic demographic data and farming experience, knowledge about different types of chemical fertilizers and their effects on crops and soil, farmers' views and opinions on the use of chemical fertilizers in their farming practices, their understanding of the impacts of chemical fertilizers on crop yield, soil health, and the environment, common issues faced by farmers and prevalent misunderstandings regarding fertilizer use. Each question provided multiple-choice options, allowing respondents to select their answers by marking the appropriate column. This format ensured consistency and clarity in data collection.

The questionnaire was developed by referring to previous studies and research papers related to the same theme. Additionally, online resources were utilized to incorporate recent insights and trends in fertilizer usage. The preparation of the questionnaire was a meticulous process that took into account the local farming context. The entire survey process, from questionnaire design to data collection, was completed within four days.

The primary purpose of the survey was to evaluate the attitudes and awareness of farmers toward the use of chemical fertilizers. It aimed to identify their level of understanding about fertilizer impacts, explore any misconceptions, and uncover challenges faced by them in adopting or using chemical fertilizers effectively.

 Results and Discussion

Awareness about the Types and Effects of Chemical Fertilizers

Table 1: Awareness about the effects of chemical fertilizers

Sl. No	INDICATORS	NUMBER OF RESPONSES	PERCENTAGE OF RESPONSES
1	Awareness about the different types of chemical fertilizers	21	84%
2	Awareness about the recommended dosage	12	48%
3	Awareness about harmful effects of chemical fertilizers	25	100%

     Graph 1: Awareness about the effects of chemical fertilizers

The data indicates that 84% of farmers were knowledgeable about the different types of chemical fertilizers, 48% are aware of their recommended usage, and 100% had a clear understanding of the harmful effects associated with chemical fertilizers.

                                               Table 2: Types of Chemical fertilizers

SL NO	INDICATORS	RESPONSES	PERCENTAGE
1	Nitrogen based fertilizers	4	16
2	Mixed fertilizers	20	80
3	None	1	4

Graph 2: Types of chemical fertilizers

The data illustrates farmers' preferences or usage patterns regarding types of fertilizers. A majority, 80%, rely on mixed fertilizers, which combine multiple nutrients, indicating their preference for products that address a broader range of soil and crop needs. In contrast, only 16% of farmers use nitrogen-based fertilizers, which could imply either limited awareness about their specific benefits or a prioritization of comprehensive solutions offered by mixed fertilizers. Additionally, 4% of farmers reported not using any fertilizers, possibly due to financial constraints, organic farming practices, or a lack of access to fertilizers.

Table 3: Frequency of using chemical fertilizers

SL NO:	INDICATORS	RESPONSES	PERCENTAGE
1	Always	18	72%
2	Some times	6	24%
3	Never	1	4%

Graph 3: Frequency of using chemical fertilizers

The data reflects the frequency with which farmers adhere to or engage in a particular agricultural practice. A significant majority, 72%, reported "Always" following the practice, indicating consistent adherence or commitment to the activity. This suggests a strong awareness or recognition of its importance in their farming routine. Meanwhile, 24% of the farmers indicated "Sometimes," which might reflect occasional barriers such as limited resources, inconsistent access, or varying levels of awareness about the practice’s significance. A small proportion, 4%, reported "Never," highlighting a complete lack of engagement. This group could represent farmers facing specific challenges, such as resource constraints, lack of knowledge, or alternative farming preferences.

Attitude towards the use of Chemical Fertilizers

             Table 4: Attitude towards the use of chemical fertilizers for the high crop yield

SL NO:	INDICATORS	RESPONSES	PERCENTAGE
1	Agree	15	60%
2	Neutral	9	36%
3	Strongly disagree	1	4%

 Graph 4: Attitude of use of chemical fertilizers for the high crop yield

  The data illustrates farmers' attitudes toward a particular statement or practice. A majority, 60%, "Agree," indicating a general consensus or positive attitude among respondents. Meanwhile, 36% of the farmers remain "Neutral," reflecting a lack of strong opinion. This could indicate uncertainty, limited awareness, or indifference towards the issue. Only 4% "Strongly disagree," representing a minority with a firm opposing stance. This group may have specific experiences, beliefs, or conditions that conflict with the general sentiment.

Perception on the Impact of Chemical Fertilizers

              Table 5: Perception of the impact of chemical fertilizers on crop quality

SL NO	INDICATOR	RESPONSES	PERCENTAGE
1	Positive impact	15	60%
2	Negative impact	9	36%
3	No impact	1	4%

Graph 5: Perception of the impact of chemical fertilizers on crop quality

The data provides insights into perceptions regarding the impact of a specific practice or intervention. A majority, 60%, perceive it as having a positive impact, indicating that most individuals find it beneficial or advantageous in their context. On the other hand, 36% believe it has a negative impact, reflecting concerns or dissatisfaction. A small proportion, 4%, feel there is no impact, indicating indifference or a lack of noticeable change. This may point to variability in how the practice or intervention is experienced or applied.

                        Table 6: Perception on the impact of chemical fertilizers on soil.

SL. NO	INDICATORS	RESPONSES	PERCENTAGE
1	Negative effects	17	68%
2	No noticeable changes	8	32%

Graph 6: perception on the impact of chemical fertilizers on soil.

The data reflects farmers' perceptions of the impact of chemical fertilizers on soil. It shows that a significant majority of 68% believe chemical fertilizers have negative effects on the soil. In contrast, 32% of the farmers did not observe any noticeable changes in the soil, suggesting that either the impacts are not evident in their context or they may lack sufficient awareness or tools to detect subtle changes.

Table 7: Perception on the impact on the health risk associated with chemical fertilizers

SL.NO	INDICATORS	RESPONSES	PERCENTAGE
1	High risk	11	44%
2	Moderate risk	14	56%

Graph 7: Perception on the impact on the health risk associated with chemical fertilizers

The data represents the perception of risk associated with chemical fertilizers. A majority of 56% of respondents categorized the risk as moderate, indicating an awareness of potential issues but not perceiving them as highly critical. Meanwhile, 44% identified the risk as high, reflecting significant concerns about the adverse consequences, possibly relating to environmental harm, soil health deterioration, or economic costs

Challenges and Misconceptions

                                   Table 8: Challenges in using chemical fertilizers

SL. NO	INDICATORS	RESPONSE	PERCENTAGE
1	High cost	12	48%
2	Lack of proper guidance	10	40%
3	Non availability of quality  products	3	12%

               Graph 8: Challenges in using chemical fertilizers

The data highlights the primary challenges farmers face regarding chemical fertilizers. Nearly half (48%) of the farmers perceive the high cost of fertilizers as a significant issue, indicating that affordability is a major barrier. A substantial 40% of the farmers identified a lack of proper guidance as a challenge. This suggests gaps in education or extension services that leave farmers without adequate knowledge on the appropriate use, dosage, or benefits of fertilizers, which could further exacerbate inefficiencies or misuse. Additionally, 12% of the respondents pointed to the non-availability of quality products, emphasizing issues in supply chains or market accessibility.

Conclusion

The study titled "Attitude and Awareness of Farmers towards the Use of Chemical Fertilizers in Agriculture" investigated the perceptions, attitudes, and knowledge of farmers in the Aluva region of Ernakulam district. The primary objectives were to analyze farmers' awareness of fertilizer types and effects, examine their attitudes towards usage, explore their perceptions of impacts on crops, soil, and health, and identify challenges and misconceptions. Through a survey of 25 farmers using a structured questionnaire, data was collected on their farming experience, fertilizer knowledge, and challenges. The study aimed to bridge the knowledge gap in sustainable practices, contributing to balancing productivity with environmental preservation.

The data revealed key insights into farmers' awareness levels and perceptions. A majority (84%) was knowledgeable about fertilizer types, but only 48% understood the recommended dosage, while 100% were aware of harmful effects. Mixed fertilizers were most commonly used, and while most farmers (72%) consistently applied fertilizers, 68% believed they negatively impacted soil health. Farmers largely associated fertilizers with improved crop yield (60% positive perception), but 56% also noted moderate health risks. The high cost of fertilizers (48%) and lack of guidance (40%) emerged as significant challenges, reflecting barriers to effective and sustainable fertilizer use.

The study concluded that while farmers were aware of the immediate benefits of chemical fertilizers, gaps in knowledge about sustainable usage and alternative practices persisted. Misconceptions and challenges such as affordability, lack of guidance, and product quality hindered optimal application. The findings highlighted the importance of targeted interventions, including education and training, to promote eco-friendly practices and informed decision-making. By addressing these gaps, the research advocates for a shift towards sustainable agriculture, balancing productivity and environmental health.

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