DETERMINANTS INFLUENCING THE ADOPTION OF PRECISION AGRICULTURE AND SMART FARMING TECHNOLOGIES AMONG FARMERS

Abstract

Background: Hyper-precision agriculture and smart farming technologies can significantly increase productivity, improve the efficiency of resource utilization, and further sustainability goals. Adoption, however, continues to lag due to differing farmer perceptions and hurdles they encounter. 

Objectives: This study seeks to understand the awareness, perception, and adoption behaviors of farmers with regard to Precision Agriculture and Smart Farming Technologies and assess the determinants of their adoption. 

Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was carried out among 250 farmers with a structured questionnaire that included demographic questions, technology knowledge, usage, perceived benefits, and barriers to encourage participation. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, reliability testing (Cronbach's alpha), normality tests, and exploratory factor analysis for construct validation. 

Results: Moderate adoption was recorded despite most respondents acknowledging an increase in crop yield and reduced input costs. The perception scale showed strong reliability with Cronbach's alpha equal to 0.806. Normality tests indicated a non-normal distribution of responses. From the analysis, two distinct factors were identified: perceived benefits and perceived barriers, the latter of which identified cost and training as major hurdles. 

Conclusions: Farmers have a good understanding of Precision Agriculture and Smart Farming and their benefits; however, further financial and technical constraints stemming from high operational costs need to be subsidized to widen the scope of adoption. Extensive outreach through training and technical aid needs to be implemented. Policymakers and stakeholders can plan effective strategies for sustainable agricultural development using these insights...