Determinants of improved rice seed adoption in Nepal's Terai Region: A probit analysis for sustainable agricultural development

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates the socioeconomic and institutional factors influencing improved rice seed adoption among smallholder farmers in Nepal's Terai region to inform sustainable agricultural policies and enhance food security. Methodology: Primary data from 347 household surveys collected over three years (2019-2021) in Bardiya district were analyzed using probit regression modeling to identify significant determinants of adoption decisions. Results: Results reveal that larger landholdings (coefficient 0.262, p=0.020) and access to agricultural training (coefficient 0.356, p=0.022) significantly drive adoption, while demographic factors show no statistical significance. Adoption rates declined from 82.42% (2019) to 45.4% (2021), despite 88.46% of farmers expressing willingness for future adoption. Theoretical Contribution: The study contributes to technology adoption literature by identifying key barriers and enablers in smallholder farming systems, providing empirical evidence for sustainable agricultural transformation in developing countries. Practical Implications: Findings inform targeted policy interventions including enhanced training programs, financial support mechanisms, and land tenure policies to promote sustainable agriculture and achieve SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) objectives. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 1: No Poverty; SDG 2: Zero Hunger; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production; SDG 13: Climate Action; SDG 15: Life on Land

Keywords

• Adoption
• improved rice seed variety
• probit model
• Nepalese agriculture