Determinants of group dynamics effectiveness among women farmers’ FIGs under ATMA in Navsari District of Gujarat State

Abstract

Group dynamics effectiveness is essential for the success of farmers’ organizations in fostering collective action and improving rural livelihoods. The present study aimed to measure the group dynamics effectiveness among women members of Farmers’ Interest Groups (FIGs) under the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) and to analyse its determinants. An ex-post facto research design was used, and a sample of 120 women FIG members from the Navsari district of Gujarat was selected through random sampling. Data were collected through personal interviews using a structured schedule and analysed using appropriate statistical tools. Linear regression analysis indicated that the thirteen independent variables together explained 65.10 per cent of the variation in group dynamics effectiveness (R² = 0.651), with the overall model being a good fit (F = 15.218). Among the variables, attitude towards collectivism and education were found to be positive and highly significant predictors. Step-down regression analysis further identified attitude towards collectivism, education, extension participation, and market orientation as the most significant determinants influencing group functioning. The findings suggest that women farmers with a stronger collective orientation, higher educational status, and better linkages with extension and market systems exhibit greater group efficacy. The study highlights the critical importance of attitudinal and institutional factors in strengthening the performance and cohesion of women-led FIGs.