Social network structures among the livestock farmers vis a vis calcium supplement technology

Abstract

This study aims to delineate and analyze the configuration of social networks of farmers with respect to the acquisition of information on vital livestock technology. Three stage sampling was carried out by interviewing 320 technology-adopter farmers from four districts of Kerala State in India. For mapping the network, social network analysis (SNA) was used, which revealed the important sources as well as patterns of information access by farmers. Results established the predominance of a formal communication source (veterinary doctor) in the study locales followed by small-sized peer groups of livestock farmers for crucial information support on technology use. The trend is observed irrespective of their gender in various study areas. Significantly the study thus, underscored the role of homogenous peer groups of farmers in facilitating meaningful interactions as well as information sharing on the technology. Given the low level of adoption of most livestock technologies along with the weak livestock extension machinery in the country, these findings could be used by extension agencies to strategize future technological interventions. Keywords: Social network analysis, Communication, Joint liability group, Knowledge, Extension, Dairying