Constraints and suggestions given by vegetable growers for improving purchasing behaviour and utilization behaviour of pesticides

Introduction

Vegetable cultivation, a vital component of diversified farming systems in Kolhapur district, plays a crucial role in ensuring nutritional security and generating income for small and marginal farmers. However, the sustainability and profitability of vegetable farming are increasingly threatened by several challenges, particularly in the areas of pesticide purchasing and utilization. Despite the widespread use of chemical pesticides to manage pests and diseases, farmers face numerous constraints that limit the effectiveness, safety, and economic efficiency of their pest control practices. One of the major issues in pesticide purchasing is the lack of awareness regarding registered and recommended products. Many farmers rely on local agro-dealers or peer suggestions without scientific validation, often leading to the purchase of substandard or inappropriate pesticides. High costs, limited availability of genuine brands, and inadequate guidance from extension services further aggravate the problem. These gaps in knowledge and access not only reduce crop protection efficiency but also pose serious risks to human health and the environment. Pesticide utilization is equally constrained by insufficient training on safe application practices, such as correct dosage, use of protective gear, and waiting periods. Indiscriminate and excessive use of chemicals, driven by the fear of crop loss, has led to the development of pest resistance, pesticide residues in produce, and declining soil health. Additionally, limited exposure to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies has kept farmers dependent on chemical solutions rather than adopting sustainable alternatives. In response to these constraints, farmers have suggested several improvements, including regular training programs, subsidies for eco-friendly and quality pesticides, regulation of pesticide sales, and the establishment of local advisory www.extensionjournal.com centers. Strengthening market surveillance, promoting mobile-based advisory services, and creating awareness through mass communication channels are also recommended to improve pesticide-related behaviours. These interventions have the potential to enhance the sustainability, safety, and profitability of vegetable farming in Kolhapur district.

Objective

To study the constraints and suggestions given by vegetable growers for improving purchasing behaviour and utilization behaviour of pesticides.

Methodology

For the present study, 150 vegetable growers were selected from Kolhapur districts in the, Hatkanangagle and Shirol tahsils were selected purposively based on having major vegetable growing belt in Kolhapur district, respondents were selected by purposive random sampling method. The present investigation was conducted to ascertain the purchasing behaviour and utilization behaviour of vegetable growers in Kolhapur district. Therefore, Ex-post facto design of social research was used for the present investigation. A list of farmers who produces vegetables was prepared with the help of Agriculture assistants. Total sample of 150 vegetable growers were took for study randomly. The data from selected 150 vegetable growers were collected by contacting them directly utilizing an interview schedule.

Research findings 1. Constraints Faced by Vegetable Growers

Data pertaining to the constraints experienced by vegetable growers in purchasing behaviour and utilization behaviour of pesticides by vegetable growers were gathered and subsequently analysed. The findings are detailed in Table 1, providing insights into the challenges faced in the purchasing behaviour and utilization behaviour of pesticides. According to the data showcased in table 1, the main challenge faced by 84.67% of respondents was pesticide cost is high. The availability of duplicate or substandard pesticides 82.67% emerged as the second major challenge. Furthermore, difficulty in understanding pesticide labels and instructions 75.33% was a third issue. Lastly, lack of proper advice on which pesticides to purchase 64.67% demonstrates an information gap, indicating that farmers often rely on input dealers or peers rather than scientific recommendations. With respect to utilization, the lack of skilled labour for spraying 73.33% was the most severe issue. The second issue was lack of knowledge about usage, repair, and maintenance of plant protection equipment 72.00%. The third challenge reported by 64.67%, was the lack of awareness about environmental pollution through pesticide residues. Lack of technical knowledge about usage of biocontrol agents was fourth issue, faced by 50.00%. While 38.00% struggled with lack of knowledge about integrated pest management.

Conclusion

The constraints faced by vegetable growers in purchasing of pesticides are high cost of pesticides, the availability of duplicate or substandard products, difficulty in understanding labels and instructions, and the lack of proper advice on selection, all of which hinder farmers' ability to make informed and effective purchasing decisions. The major utilization-related constraints were the lack of skilled labour for spraying, limited knowledge on usage and maintenance of plant protection equipment, poor awareness of environmental pollution from pesticide residues, along with inadequate technical knowledge about bio-control agents and Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which collectively restrict the safe and sustainable use of pesticides.

The suggestions offered by vegetable growers in purchasing of pesticides, that pesticide prices should be controlled or subsidized by the government to ensure affordability for small and marginal farmers, while original and certified pesticides must be made available in local agro-input shops to prevent the sale of counterfeit products. Additionally, there is a strong need to create awareness about the hazardous effects of pesticide residues in vegetables and to educate farmers on the importance of information provided on pesticide labels and containers for safe and effective use.

For utilization, it is essential to conduct regular awareness programs on the safe use of pesticides, along with educating farmers about the safe disposal of empty containers to minimize human exposure and environmental contamination. Moreover, practical training on pesticide application, as well as maintenance and repair of plant protection equipment, should be provided to enhance safe and effective utilization.

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