CHAPTER 10

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

10.1 Introduction
This chapter presents on the summary in the light of the discussions made in
the previous chapters. Conclusion has made on the basis of observed results.
Policy recommendations are drawn for improvement of the existing
inefficiency of poultry production in Bangladesh.

10.2 Summery of the Research Findings

The main sector of the economy in Bangladesh is agriculture, which also
plays a significant role in determining economic growth and improving rural
livelihoods. The agriculture industry is essential in boosting productivity,
maintaining long-term food security, and generating jobs. Agriculture will
contribute roughly 11.38 percent of the GDP in FY 2022–23, according to the
BBS. Crop output increases despite dwindling arable land, satisfying the food
and nutrition needs of a growing population, climate change, and the COVID-
19's effects. In terms of global vegetable production, Bangladesh is now
ranked third. Bangladesh has attained self-sufficiency in food production by
using conventional method but it raises concerns about agrochemical
contamination of food. In this context, organic farming is the best approach
in terms of maximizing cost-effectiveness and minimizing pollution. Avoiding
pesticides, fertilizers, GMOs, antibiotics, and hormones is only one aspect of
organic farming. It encourages cover crops, agricultural rotations, and
harmonious host/predator relationships. The goal of organic farming is to
produce food and agricultural products in an ethical, sustainable, and
healthful way. Globally, there were 74.9 million hectares of organic farmland
in 2020, a 3.5 million hectare increase from the year before. The biggest
proportions of organic agricultural land are in Oceania and Europe. In 2020,
1.6 percent of the agricultural land was used for organic farming. In 2020,
there will be a 3.0 million hectare (4.1%) rise in organic farms. Asia, followed
by Africa, Europe, and Latin America, has the most organic farmers. The
amount of organic farming in Bangladesh decreased by 12% from 2249
hectares in 2019 to 504 hectares in 2020. In Bangladesh, organic produce is
becoming more popular, particularly vegetables, jute, cotton, and animals. It
has been created and marketed to sell "Jute Green Tea" produced from
organic jute leaf. In Bangladesh, demand for organic and healthy foods has
surged as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sales of organic goods have
increased significantly, according to the Bangladesh Organic Products
Manufacturer Association (BOPMA). Compared to non-organic vegetables,
organic vegetables are more in demand. In southwest Bangladesh, the
Sustainable Agriculture, Food Security and Linkages (SaFaL) program seeks
to advance sustainable agricultural methods and enhance food security. The
SaFaL program's overarching goal is to increase production, quality, and
income for smallholder farmers, disadvantaged landless laborer, and women
in rural communities in southwest Bangladesh. It also aims to provide food
and nutrition security. In order to provide wholesome and plentiful food,
organic farming relies on natural principles like biodiversity and composting.
Crop rotations and the use of composted animal manures are examples of
sustainable organic farming techniques that have been modified for today's
culture. It strives to preserve vital agricultural resources while also
protecting the environment. The purpose of the study is to determine
whether organic vegetable farming is profitable enough to sustain farmers'
lives in terms of both their farming costs and cost of living. It also aims to
discover the difficulties farmers face in the field and ascertain whether they
intend to keep cultivating organic vegetables in the future. The study's
findings will be helpful to consumers, those involved in organic production,
researchers curious about organic farming methods, and farmers thinking
about switching to organic farming. Additionally, these findings will be
helpful to policymakers since they will give them understanding of the
importance of organic farming, supported by reliable and high-quality data.
10.3 Hypothesis of the Study
A research hypothesis is a precise, understandable, and testable proposition
or insightful claim regarding the potential findings of a scientific investigation
based on a specific demographic characteristic. The following theory was put
to the test by the researcher.

H 1. Socioeconomic characteristics do not vary among the different

categories of
organic and conventional vegetable growing farmers;
H 2. Financial profitability is not perfectly applicable for organic and
conventional
vegetable production;
H 3. The factors had no influence on adoption of producing organic
vegetable;
H 4. Farmers’ had a positive perception on organic vegetable practices in
the
study area; and
H 5. There are no problems on adoption of organic vegetable farming.

10.3 Key Findings of the Study

10.3.1 Socioeconomic characteristics of the farmers
Based on a set of predetermined research objectives and locational
suitability, the study was carried out at Jashore Sadar and Monirampur in the
Jashore district. 50 organic vegetable producers and 50 conventional
vegetable farmers were chosen as a representative sample using random
sampling procedures at various stages. Data was gathered between May and
July 2023. The purpose of the initial visits was to get to know the
participants. Data were gathered on several facets of the production of
conventional and organic vegetables. Highlighted difficulties encountered
when gathering data, including farmers' unwillingness, a lack of
recordkeeping, and shaky responses. Software such as MS Excel, SPSS, and
STATA were used for data entry and analysis. For data analysis, a binary
logistic regression model as well as tabular analysis (such as gross return,
gross margin, net return, and benefit-cost ratio) were both used. We also
employed regression with marginal effects, SWOT analysis, and a Likert
scale.
The sample farmers are categorized into five age groups: 21-30, 31-40, 41-
50, 51-60, and above 60 years. About 30% of organic vegetable growers and
36% of conventional vegetable growers fall into the 41-50 and 31-40 age
groups, respectively. On average, organic vegetable growers had a family
size of 4.14 persons, with 67.87% being male and 32.13% female. For
conventional vegetable growers, the average family size was 3.96 persons,
with 69.44% being male and 30.56% female. Both organic and conventional
vegetable growers showed variation in their educational levels, ranging from
no formal education to Honours level education. Education levels varied
within each group. A significant percentage of both organic and conventional
vegetable growers had over 21-40 years of farming experience. Among the
sampled farmers, there were no large farmers, while most fell into the small
farmer category according to BBS. A majority of both organic and
conventional vegetable growers were engaged in agriculture as their primary
occupation. A significant portion of farmers in both groups had secondary
occupations, with agriculture and business being the most common. A
considerable percentage of organic vegetable growers received training,
while conventional growers received less training. Farmers also received
various services, with agricultural extension being the most common. Finally,
based on the testable hypothesis, we can infer that socioeconomic factors
affect farmers. By doing so, we reject out the hypothesis.

10.3.2 Profitability of organic and conventional vegetable

production
In this comparative profitability analysis of organic and conventional
vegetable farming, the study focuses on estimating costs and returns
associated with both production methods. The analysis includes various cost
components, such as variable costs (those that vary with production levels)
and fixed costs (those that remain constant regardless of production levels).
The study considers four types of vegetables: brinjal, pointed gourd,
cabbage, and country beans. For the cultivation of organic vegetables, the
total cost of acquired human labor was Tk 7,400 per farm and Tk 36,904 per
acre. For conventional vegetable production, the total cost of acquired
human labor was Tk 27,800 per farm and Tk 53,151 per acre. Total variable
costs for organic vegetable production per farm were estimated at Tk.
16,179. This includes costs for hired labor, machinery, seed, organic
fertilizer, biopesticides, integrated pest management, macha (materials used
for staking plants), irrigation, miscellaneous costs, and interest on operating
capital. Total variable costs for conventional vegetable production per farm
were estimated at Tk. 48,093. This includes costs for hired labor, machinery,
seed, synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, macha, irrigation, miscellaneous costs,
and interest on operating capital. Organic Vegetables: Tk. 77,471 was
calculated to be the per-acre variable cost for the production of organic
vegetables. The projected Tk. 92,477 per acre variable costs for conventional
vegetable production. A farm's total fixed costs for producing organic
vegetables were calculated at Tk. 12,252. A farm's total fixed expenditures
for producing traditional vegetables were assessed to be Tk. 25,670. Fixed
costs per acre for the cultivation of organic vegetables were estimated at Tk.
54,536. Fixed expenses per acre for producing conventional vegetables were
estimated at Tk. 48,295. A farm's gross profits from producing organic
vegetables were predicted to be Tk. 38,601. The estimated Tk. 121,229 in
gross earnings from conventional vegetable production per farm. The
estimated Tk. 121,229 in gross earnings from conventional vegetable
production per farm. The predicted Tk. 178,379 per acre gross earnings from
organic vegetable farming. It was calculated that conventional vegetable
cultivation yielded Tk. 234,922 in gross profits per acre. The average farm
had a gross margin of 21,837 Tk. for organic vegetable production. Each
farm has a gross margin of Tk. 73,502 for conventional vegetable production.
The average farm's net profit from producing organic vegetables was Tk.
10,035. The average farm's net return for traditional vegetable production
was 48,582 Tk. Production of organic vegetables yielded a net return per
acre of Tk. 46,372. For conventional vegetable farming, the net return per
acre was Tk. 94,151. According to estimates, the benefit cost ratio
(undiscounted) for the production of organic vegetables was 1.36, meaning
that for every Tk. 1 invested, Tk. 1.36 would be earned. For conventional
vegetable production, the benefit cost ratio (undiscounted) was estimated at
1.64, meaning that for every Tk. 1.00 invested, Tk. 1.64 would be earned.
These findings suggest that conventional vegetable production generally
results in higher gross returns and gross margins per farm and per acre.
However, organic vegetable production still demonstrates positive net
returns and reasonable benefit cost ratios, making it a viable option for
farmers interested in sustainable and organic farming practices. After
completing our analysis of profitability, we can state that the null hypothesis
is not true because we are perfectly able to compare the financial
profitability of organic and conventional vegetable farming.

10.3.3 Factors affecting adoption of organic vegetable production

In this study on the adoption of organic vegetable production practices in
Bangladesh, several factors were analyzed to determine their influence on
farmers' decisions using a logistic regression model. The age of the
household head had a positive and statistically significant impact on the
adoption of organic vegetable practices. Older household heads were more
likely to adopt these practices. While there was a positive relationship
between the educational level of the household head and the adoption of
organic practices, this effect was not statistically significant. Household size
did not have a significant impact on adoption, indicating that the number of
family members did not strongly influence the decision to adopt organic
practices. The experience of farming was negatively related to the adoption
of organic practices, but this effect was not statistically significant. Access to
credit did not significantly influence the adoption of organic vegetable
practices. None of these factors (annual farm income, expenses, and total
farm Size) had a significant impact on the adoption decision, as their effects
were close to zero and not statistically significant. Receiving training had a
significant and positive impact on the adoption of organic vegetable
practices. Farmers who received training were much more likely to adopt
these practices. Overall, the study suggests that age and training play
crucial roles in influencing farmers to adopt organic vegetable production
practices. Older farmers are more inclined to adopt, and training programs
have a significant positive impact. Other factors like education, household
size, and farming experience did not show strong statistical associations with
adoption. The above discussion rejects the null hypothesis as some of the
socio-economic factor had considerable influence on adoption of organic
vegetable practices.

10.3.4 Farmers perception on adoption of organic vegetable

production
The study utilized Likert scale-based statements to gauge the attitudes and
beliefs of farmers regarding organic vegetable production. Among
conventional vegetable farmers, a substantial portion (38%) strongly
disagreed with the idea of adopting organic vegetable cultivation in the
future, while only 4% strongly agreed. Most conventional farmers (52%)
firmly rejected the belief that shifting to organic vegetables would enhance
soil quality, and a majority (66%) disagreed that organic vegetables would
improve produce quality or lead to increased income (52%). They also
largely disagreed that cultivating organic vegetables posed health hazards
(52%) or harmed the environment (48%). Moreover, a significant percentage
(60%) did not believe that multinational companies benefited from organic
vegetable cultivation, and the majority (78%) disagreed that it maximized
profits. On the other hand, organic vegetable farmers generally showed
stronger intent to continue cultivation, with only 18% strongly disagreeing. A
notable portion (46%) strongly disagreed with the idea of considering
conventional vegetable farming in the future. Organic farmers held more
positive perceptions about organic farming, with the majority strongly
agreeing that it benefits soil quality (68%) and produce quality (96%) while
contributing to increased income (76%). Few organic farmers agreed that
organic vegetable cultivation posed health hazards (12%) or environmental
harm (8%). Additionally, only 18% agreed that organic vegetable cultivation
served the interests of multinational companies. Despite these positive
perceptions, a substantial portion (84%) of organic farmers disagreed that it
maximized profits, and a significant percentage (50%) disagreed that it
guaranteed higher yields. A noteworthy number (28%) also disagreed that it
improved economic performance. In conclusion, there were substantial
differences in perceptions between organic and conventional vegetable
farmers. Organic farmers generally held more positive views regarding the
benefits of organic farming, while conventional farmers expressed more
skepticism. Targeted interventions and awareness campaigns may be
necessary to bridge these perception gaps and promote organic vegetable
farming practices. The discussion rejects the null hypothesis because
maximum farmers have negative perception on adoption of organic
vegetable practices.

10.3.5 Problem identification with probable solutions and

suggestions
In Bangladesh's northern region, where agriculture is vital for income
generation, numerous challenges hinder organic vegetable farming. These
challenges can be grouped into two categories: input-related and
socioeconomic problems. Organic farmers struggle to achieve high yields
compared to conventional methods. Organic pest control methods are less
effective, leading to potential yield losses. Farmers face difficulties in
obtaining organic fertilizers and other necessary inputs. Poor-quality seeds
with low germination rates are a common issue. Weed infestation competes
with vegetables for nutrients and affects soil fertility. Soil quality has
deteriorated over time, reducing yields. Irregular weather patterns, including
excessive rainfall, harm crop quality and quantity. Farmers have trouble
accessing markets and receiving fair prices for organic produce. Many
farmers lack knowledge about organic farming practices. Farmers need
deeper understanding of organic farming techniques. Specific infrastructure
for organic farming is often lacking. Farmers receive limited technical advice
and support from extension personnel. The initial investments required for
organic farming can be a financial burden. Small landholdings limit crop
rotation and diversification. Traditional practices may conflict with organic
principles. Farmers provided valuable suggestions to address these issues,
including education and training, access to organic inputs, improved pest
management, simplified certification processes, soil health improvement,
climate-resilient practices, financial support, research and extension
services, market development, policy support, and monitoring and
evaluation. Despite challenges, organic vegetable farming in Bangladesh has
potential when leveraging strengths, addressing weaknesses, capitalizing on
opportunities, and mitigating threats through targeted efforts and
governmental support. With the above discussion, we can say that the null
hypothesis is rejected.

10.4 Conclusions
This study delves deeply into the intricacies of organic and conventional
vegetable farming within the context of Jashore district, Bangladesh. It
carefully examines various facets of these agricultural practices, shedding
light on their respective dynamics and implications. In this research,
conventional farming emerges as a method capable of providing higher
short-term financial gains. It's often chosen due to its potential for immediate
returns on investment. However, the study highlights that organic farming
stands out as a compelling and sustainable alternative, especially when
considering the broader, long-term benefits it offers, particularly in terms of
environmental and human health. Organic farming is characterized by its
commitment to eschew synthetic chemicals, pesticides, and genetically
modified organisms, relying instead on natural, eco-friendly methods for pest
control and soil enrichment. This sustainable approach not only ensures
healthier produce but also safeguards the environment by reducing chemical
pollution and promoting biodiversity. Moreover, it diminishes the risk of
chemical residues in food, thereby contributing to improved public health
outcomes. One key takeaway from this study is the existence of perceptual
differences between farmers engaged in organic and conventional practices.
Conventional farmers, as revealed in the study, often express skepticism and
reservations about transitioning to organic methods. Their concerns may
revolve around perceived lower yields, doubts about the benefits to soil
quality, or economic uncertainties. Addressing these perceptual gaps and
overcoming the challenges identified in the study is vital. The research
underscores the need for targeted interventions and awareness campaigns.
By educating farmers about the benefits of organic farming and providing
training and support, these interventions can foster a more favorable
attitude towards organic vegetable production. Furthermore, the study
points out specific challenges faced by organic farmers, including limited
access to organic inputs, pest management complexities, and the need for
better infrastructure. To promote organic farming, it is suggested that
measures be taken to ensure the availability of organic fertilizers, seeds, and
pest management solutions. Simplifying certification processes and
providing subsidies can make organic farming more accessible to small-scale
farmers. This study offers a comprehensive perspective on organic and
conventional vegetable farming in Bangladesh. It highlights the potential of
organic farming as a sustainable choice, emphasizing long-term
environmental and health benefits. By addressing challenges and perception
gaps through well-planned interventions, organic vegetable production
practices can be encouraged and, in turn, contribute to a more sustainable
agricultural landscape in the region. This research serves as a valuable
resource for policymakers, agricultural experts, and farmers looking to make
informed decisions about the future of vegetable farming in Bangladesh.

10.5 Policy Implications

Training on organic farming operation
Training has employed a significant influence on increasing the farmers’
efficiency through a few farmers have taken part in farming related training.
In this phase, government should develop and implement comprehensive
training programs focused on organic farming practices, emphasizing soil
health, natural pest control, composting, and organic input management.
Incentivize farmers to participate in training programs by providing quality
organic inputs at subsidized rates, offering short-term credit, and recognizing
and rewarding their participation. Both GOs and NGOs should take initiatives
to arrange for training to the farmers on the different features of organic
vegetable practices.
Access to Education
Education is a variable that is expected to sharpen managerial input and
lead to a better assessment of the importance, the complexities, of good
decisions in farming. Education enhances the ability of farmers to see,
decipher and make good use of information about production inputs, thus
improving the efficient use of inputs. Establish educational programs at
various levels to raise awareness about the benefits of organic farming and
its importance for sustainable agriculture. Recognize the positive correlation
between education and the adoption of organic farming practices is very
important. Promote education and literacy among farming communities
through adult education programs, scholarships, and awareness campaigns.
Develop educational infrastructure in rural areas to provide farmers and their
families with access to education.
Microfinance and Credit
Institutional credit has a significant impact on demand for input as well as
on agricultural production. If production credit is invested on the farm, it is
expected that this will lead to higher levels of output, but in case the credit is
not accessed on time, it may, more often than not, lead to misapplication of
funds. Enhance access to microfinance and credit specifically tailored to
support organic farming initiatives. Ensure that farmers have timely and
affordable access to credit for purchasing organic inputs, implementing
organic practices, and managing their farms effectively. Explore options for
low-interest credit and flexible repayment terms to ease financial burdens on
organic farmers.
Extension Services and Technical Support
Farmers with more contact with extension services were found to be more
technically efficient than farmers with less extension contact. The main
purpose of extension contact is to linkage the farmer with the researcher. It
works as a pipeline where information flows from researcher to the farmer
and vice-versa. So, we need to strengthen extension services with a focus on
organic farming, including training and capacity building for extension
agents. Establish a two-way communication system between farmers and
extension agents to facilitate knowledge sharing, problem-solving, and the
timely dissemination of information. Conduct research to identify effective
extension methodologies for promoting organic farming practices.
Market Development and Certification
Develop and promote local and regional markets for organic produce,
including certification and labeling initiatives. Facilitate the establishment of
farmer cooperatives or associations to collectively market organic products
and negotiate fair prices. Invest in cold storage and transportation
infrastructure to maintain the quality of organic produce during transit to
distant markets.
Research and Development
Allocate resources for applied agricultural research to develop organic
farming technologies suitable for local conditions. Encourage collaboration
between agricultural universities, research institutions, and organic farmers
to conduct research and disseminate findings. Support the development of
high-yielding organic crop varieties and organic pest management
techniques.
Policy Support
Advocate for supportive policies and regulations that incentivize organic
farming, such as subsidies, tax incentives, and research funding. Ensure that
organic standards are clear, accessible, and adaptable to local agricultural
practices. Collaborate with international organizations to align organic
farming policies with global best practices. Establish systems for monitoring
and evaluating the adoption and impact of organic farming practices. These
policy recommendations aim to create an enabling environment for the
widespread adoption of organic vegetable farming practices, which can
contribute to sustainable agriculture, improved farmer livelihoods, and
healthier ecosystems.

10.6 Limitations of the research

Almost all the research studies have some common limitations in terms of
time, fund and personnel. The present study is not an exception so that.
Some of the specific limitations are as follows:
 One of the major limitations of the study is that, the farmers in
Bangladesh do not generally keep record of their farm business
transactions, they give information mainly from their memory. As a
result, the accuracy of data fully depends on their memories and
sincerity. Consequently, the possibility of data errors could not be ruled
out.
  Inadequate fund and time availability for the study was an important
limitation. The researcher had to work from a limited area with small
size of samples due to storage of fund and time which may not present
the actual situation prevailing all over Bangladesh. Therefore, the
scope of generalization is limited.
 Farmers were busy in their working and thus unwilling to talk. In such
cases more than one visit were required to conduct a single interview.
Most of the respondents initially hesitated to answer questions since
they thought that the investigation might use the information against
their interest. Some respondents thought that the researchers to be
the government official of tax or other department and feared to talk.
Most of the respondents had little concept about a research work and it
was therefore, very difficult to explain the purpose of the study and to
convince them.
 Some specific vegetables were considered in the present study. But
there might be some other important vegetables influencing the
profitability and adoption perception of vegetable farmers. Therefore,
the findings of the study interpreted with considerable caution to
generalize for the country as a whole.
 In the selected area, village roads were unfinished and thus faced
transportation difficult and time consuming. It was therefore walking
long distances, caused unnecessary delays. Coupled with road access
problems, this caused the researchers additional loss of time.

Since the present study was not a comprehensive study, it is very difficult to
arrive at any specific generalization. In spite of the above limitations, the
findings of the study might be helpful for the researcher, policy makers and
other concerned authorities for conducting further comprehensive research
or to arrive at any plan for the development of the organic vegetable
production in Bangladesh.
10.7 Implications for Further Research
Regardless the whole-hearted efforts to make the study more meaningful,
some vital issues could not be addressed in this study due to limitations of
time and resources which are as follows:
 A more research, therefore, could be undertaken considering the farm
sizes and tenurial arrangements of the farmers to know the scale of
benefits on different farm categories and owners of land.

 In the study for profitability analysis using only four vegetables data but
for further research we can included some other vegetables with these
four vegetables

 A more comprehensive socioeconomic study could be undertaken taking

into account more sample from different upazilas in the Jashore district of
Bangladesh. This will provide broad-based information on agricultural
activities in Jashore district.

Even with a few restrictions, the findings of the present study may be helpful
to the policy or decision makers, farmers, donor agencies, extension
workers, government and NGO officials to identify area specific problems of
farming and formulating most appropriate policies for the sustainable
agricultural development more particularly for organic vegetable farming
practices in the Jashore district as well as food and nutrition security of the
vast majority people of Bangladesh.