Abstract:
This study examined the feasibility of introducing integrated rice fish farming (IRFF) system
among rice farmers in the Hambantota District, Sri Lanka, by assessing their knowledge,
perceptions, misconceptions, constraints and perceived potentials. A cross-sectional study
design with a two-stage sampling procedure was employed. Data were collected from 100
randomly selected farmers under major irrigation schemes using structured questionnaires
and individual interviews. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, Pearson correlation
and binary logistic regression to identify factors influencing willingness to adopt. Results
showed that younger, better-educated and land-owning farmers with smaller landholdings
were more willing to adopt IRFF system, while older and more experienced farmers were
less receptive. Knowledge and perception were positively associated with feasibility to
adopt, whereas constraints had a significant negative effect. Logistic regression confirmed
knowledge, perception and constraints as the most decisive predictors of adoption feasibility,
with higher knowledge and favourable perceptions substantially increasing feasibility and
constraints reducing it. Although myths did not directly affect feasibility, they were negatively
correlated with knowledge and perceptions, suggesting an indirect influence. The findings
suggest that the feasibility of introducing IRFF system may be enhanced by improving farmer
knowledge and perceptions through targeted extension and demonstration programs, while
addressing institutional and resource-related constraints.
