IMPACT OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICES ON APPLE PRODUCTIVITY IN DISTRICT SWAT.
Keywords:
Extension Services impact, Improvement in Apple Productivity, Specific Areas of Apple ProductionAbstract
The research is carried out in District Swat, a significant area renowned for its fertile soil and favorable climate, ideal for cultivating a diverse range of crops, vegetables, and fruits. Among these, apples and peaches hold particular importance for the local farmers. Apples, in particular, thrive exceptionally well in this region due to the ideal climate conditions. The study encompassed all the apple producers within this area. District Swat comprises seven tehsils, split between two regions: upper and lower Swat. The upper Swat region,specifically chosen for its suitability for apple production, includes three tehsils: Tehsil Matta, Tehsil Khwazakhela, and Tehsil Bahrain. The local extension worker collaborated in compiling a comprehensive list of all apple growers within the chosen villages. The
study's sample size was determined to be 40% (128) of the total 320 farmers in the study area through random sampling technique. Data was collected through interview schedule. The variables was analyzed through Chi-square test was applied. This research aims to
enhance apple growing by providing targeted extension services in areas where there is a high concentration of apple farming knowledge. Due to their history of productive apple farming, these regions need specialized assistance with pest control, soil fertility,
harvesting methods, and marketing. Information gathered from a subset of villages showsthat 50.8% of respondents recommend concentrating on pest control, with other crucial areas including post-harvest methods and soil fertility coming in second. The study also shows how extension services affect apple productivity; 41.4% of respondents said their productivity had significantly increased. There is a need for further assistance and customized therapies as 25.8% of the participants reported no improvement. The study's
findings on service utilization show that, whereas 21.9% of respondents use extension services frequently, a substantial 57% use them sometimes, and 21.1% do not use them at all. This utilization is influenced by confidence in service providers and cost (44.5%). The
research highlights the need of tackling obstacles such as monetary limitations, accessibility of services, and guaranteeing that outreach initiatives correspond with the distinct requirements of every community. Finally, farmers emphasize services like soil testing, advise on pest control, and harvest practices. This suggests that specific extension services that are adapted to the needs of each community may greatly increase apple output and spur economic growth.