Sociological Analysis of Transformation of Farming System in Mid-Hill Nepal (A Case Study of Arva VDC, Kaski)

Abstract

The study aims to diagnose and analyze the transformation of farming system. The factors were classified into four major groups i.e. physical, economical, psycho-social and technological. The technological factors with some other components later on considered as transformational agents. Inter and intra linkage was analyzed between transformational agent and factors of transformation as well as with and within the factors of transformation using descriptive and correlation statistical tools. Representation of hills, which occupy almost two-third areas of Nepal, this study had been carried out in Arva VDC, Kaski, Nepal altitude ranges 780-1340 masl covering plain paddy land (Khet), terrace paddy land (Tari Khet) and terrace dry land (Pakho Bari) where at least a crop is cultivated every year. Non Probability purposive sampling and Probability random sampling method was used for information gathering and data collection and 148 households were identified using a random table. The study diagnosed the affecting factors of transformation from subsistence to commercial farming. The technological factors, psychosocial factor, physical factors and economical factors respectively ranked from the most affecting to less on transformation of the subsistence farming into commercial farming. One out of ten households made surplus in food and only surplus produces was sold. About seven percent households made profit. The psycho-social factors; training, information, visiting service providing organization, award, subsidies, network and family size had positive significant relation with agents of transformation. Where as, not visiting service providing organizations and education had negative significant relation. Lack of training, encouragement, awareness, security, unstable government, incentives, and concern of DADO found the hindering elements under psycho-social factors. With respect to economic factors positive relationship was found among profit earning, getting rational amount of produces, and availability of farm labor with transformational agents. Lack of encouragement, support small land holdings, lack of market, expensive tools, were identified the hindrance on economic factors. Having own land, area of agricultural land, number of parcels, positively related with transformational agents. Physiographic condition, sloppy land, natural disaster, epidemic, wild life and small parcels found physical hindrance. Ultimately the study area is in semi-subsistence base. To bring this situation to modern commercial farming, the study recommended planning actions to encourage farmers through inter and intra-village produces exhibition, providing subsidies from the GOs/NGOs/INGOs, providing trainings related to modern inputs.