Adoption of scientific animal health practices among women dairy farmers in Himachal Pradesh: An ex post facto research study

Abstract

Adoption of new ideas and technologies is a vital decision to enhance output and efficiency while mitigating losses.Past research indicates that both technological characteristics and socio-demographic factors play important roles in determining the adoption of innovations. Consequently, it is imperative to study user behavior concerning adoption decisions. Women farmers play a central role in dairy farming in India. Understanding their adoption behavior can help in designing targeted interventions and support systems to facilitate the uptake of beneficial practices. The current study assesses the overall level and item-wise extent of adoption of scientific animal health practices by women dairy farmers in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.Data were collected through semi-structured interview schedule from 150 women dairy farmers of small, medium, and large herd sizes.Results indicate varying levels of adoption among different herd sizes, with medium-herd sized women farmers demonstrating the highest adoption rates. Practices such as dung removal and vaccination were widely adopted, while others, like udder washing and allopathic medicine use, showed lower adoption rates. Socio-demographic factors were found to influence adoption behavior among women dairy farmers. Tailored interventions addressing these socio-demographic factors can facilitate widespread adoption among women dairy farmers and improve overall productivity in the dairy sector in the region.