Factors Affecting Awareness of Farmers about Genetically Modified Crops in Punjab

This paper investigates the farmer's awareness about various aspects of the genetically modified crops and foods. Sixty farmers were selected from each of the two highly producing districts of Punjab in terms, of genetically modified crops. Thus a total of one hundred and twenty respondents were selected for the study. The data were collected with the help of self-structured interview schedule. Findings of the study revealed that majority of farmers; about 62.5 percent had high level of awareness towards every aspect of genetically modified crops. Correlation analysis revealed that mass media exposure, extension contacts, progressiveness and risk orientation contribute significantly and linearly to the awareness level of farmers. The multiple regression analysis determined the contribution of these factors more concretely with how much amount. Therefore, modern techniques in agriculture need to be well targeted in accordance to the socio-psychological and socio-personal factors of farmers. Gap in level of awareness about the GM technology needs to be resolved by providing genetic literacy among farmers.