Factors influencing the adoption of biopesticides for pest management in paddy fields of Kuttanadu region in Kerala

The increased public concerns about the potential adverse environmental and health effects associated with the use of synthetic plant protection chemicals necessitate the use of biopesticides. This study has examined the factors influencing adoption of biopesticides for pest management in paddy in Kuttanadu region of Kerala. Partial budgeting technique, logistic regression and Garret ranking were used for analysis. Age, education, farm size, extension agency contact and awareness level of farmers were found to be the factors influencing biopesticide adoption decision. Availability of quality biopesticide was the major constraint in the adoption of biopesticides