Effectiveness of Technology Transfer among Rubber Smallholders in Moneragala District
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2015
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka
Abstract
Application of scientific agricultural knowledge and technology adaptation in the rubber is a vital investment to enhance the productivity and overall performance of the rubber industry. The degree of adaptation of recommended technology is a crucial factor in the rubber small holding sector. In view of this, a study was conducted in Moneragala district in 2015 to assess the effectiveness of technology transfer in Smallholder Plantations Entrepreneurship Development Project (SPEnDP). As well as to identify the factors affect to the level of adaptation on recommended technologies and management practices.
The sample for the research study was selected using Cluster sampling technique. The sample size was 150 small holders. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and interviewing the small holders at their places. Awareness and adaptation levels measured mainly under five categories as Planting methods and planting material, Soil fertility management, Intercropping, Diseases identification, control methods and Rubber tapping. SWOT (Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats) analysis was conducted with secondary data to identify and explain current status and future potentials for rubber cultivation in Moneragala district.
According to the results of the analysis, technology transfer associate with applying soil conservation method, tappable stage identification and farmers knowledge on effective tapping method are in unsatisfactory level. Especially nearly 30% of farmers do not apply any fertilizer for their plantation and nearly 50% of rubber plantations are showed poor soil conservation. 82% farmers are showed poor disease identification and 60% of farmers are poor in tappable stage identification. Also around 80% farmers have poor awareness on applying effective tapping method. In addition, Enthusiasm of farmers, Low rain interference for tapping. Low disease incidence can introduce as a strength factors for Moneragala rubber cultivation. Insufficient extension service, Low technical knowledge on rubber industry, less developed marketing channel, identified as weaknesses and labour availability, land availability identified as opportunities to develop Moneragala rubber industry.
Key words: Rubber smallholder, Recommended practices, Awareness, Technology transfer, effectiveness
Description
Keywords
Palm and Latex Technology and Value Addition Degree Programme ( PLT)