Small and medium-sized farmers' perspectives on rubber production; A case study in Monaragala district, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Rubber cultivation is a relatively new industry in the Monaragala District of Sri Lanka and has been rapidly expanding. While there have been studies conducted on farmers' perspectives on rubber production, there is still a lack of information about the rubber sector in the district. Understanding farmers' perspectives on this sector is critical to improve the rubber sector in Sri Lanka. The aim of this study is to gain an understanding of farmers' perspectives on rubber production and identify potential solutions to address the major drawbacks in the industry and improve rubber production. The population of the study was small and medium-sized farmers in the Monaragala District. Within the 11 GN divisions, 110 farmers from the Monaragala District were chosen as the sample size using the stratified sampling technique. The farmers' primary data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire with the desired constructs. The economic variables of the study were determined using a five-point Likert scale. Farmers claimed that there is no appropriate price for rubber, even though natural rubber is in high demand all over the world. The responses generally refuted the statement that "cost of production became acceptable" (p value<0.05) and that the use of machinery in rubber growing was increasing (p value<0.05). In the Monaragala district, the rubber industry has created both direct and indirect job opportunities (p value<0.05). The sample respondents mentioned three significant constraints: a lack of fertilizers, a lack of water, and wild animal attacks (36.36%). Farmers suggest a few agronomic measures, such as productive cover crop establishment, regular soil loosening to make the best use of fertilizer and water for cultivation, as well as guards to protect early planted plants from wild animals (p value<0.05). Aside from that, they advocated for increased cultivation on vacant lands in the Monaragala district, an efficient extension system, high-quality planting materials, and the formation of rubber farmer cooperative societies. Not a reasonable price for rubber, higher production costs, and a lack of available labour in certain regions were mentioned by farmers as their primary concerns. By addressing these issues and obstacles, it is possible to increase rubber production in the region.