Tha Dok Kham Rice Production of Farmers in Na Sai Thong District Vientiane Capital Lao People's Democratic Republic

Abstract

     This study investigated the Tha Dok Kham rice production of farmers in Na Sai Thong district, Vientiane Capital, Lao People's Democratic Republic. The objectives of the study were: 1) to examine the personal, economic, and social characteristics of farmers in Na Sai Thong district; 2) to assess farmers' knowledge and practices related to rice production; 3) to identify factors affecting rice production; and 4) to explore problems and suggestions for improving rice production. Data was collected through questionnaires from a sample of 117 rice farmers in the area, selected using simple random sampling. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, and inferential statistics, such as multiple regression analysis.

The findings revealed that the majority of the farmers were male, with an average age of 49 years, married, and had completed secondary school or vocational education. On average, each household had 4 members, with 2 working in agriculture. The average annual household income was 222,811 Baht, with 55,463.25 Baht derived from agricultural activities. The average household debt was 21,061.42 Baht. The average landholding was 11.73 rai, and the farmers financed their rice production with their own capital. They typically received agricultural information from government agencies, averaging one contract per year. Farmers were members of agricultural groups and participated in training or field visits about once a year. The overall knowledge of rice production among the farmers was at a moderate level, while their practices were at a high level. The study found that access to information sources on rice production positively influenced rice output, while household debt had a significant negative impact on Tha Dok Kham rice production. Regarding problems and suggestions, farmers faced issues with seeds exchanged within the group, including low germination rates, water management for rice production, and seed loss during harvesting with combine harvesters. Farmers expressed the need for relevant agencies to provide greater support, particularly in terms of knowledge and practical solutions to emerging problems. They also suggested that the government should formulate policies to enhance the efficiency of rice production.