Farmers' perceptions of quality of groundnut: vis-a-vis farmers' characteristics.

摘要

The study assesses the perceptions of farmers on the quality of groundnuts in the Junagadh district of Gujarat State, India. A survey was conducted on 180 farmers from large and small farms. The results indicated that majority of farmers perceived poor quality and there were significant differences between the perceptions of big farmers and small farmers. The characteristics of farmers i.e., knowledge of aflatoxin management practices, innovativeness, and market orientation, significantly influenced their perceptions. Strategies to increase the knowledge level of farmers on aflatoxin management practices of groundnut through appropriate extension approaches, are suggested. Mass awareness campaigns to educate farmers and consumers on the ill-effects of consumption of aflatoxin-contaminated produce, providing price incentives to farmers, and addressing consumer demands for aflatoxin-free and good quality groundnuts are needed.