The Role of Farmer Awareness and Participatory Strategies in Combating Pink Bollworm through Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Abstract

This paper explores the effects of awareness of farmers related to the economics of adopting a sustainable pest control method known as Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and participatory strategies domiciled in Pink Bollworm infestation (PBW) in Punjab province of Pakistan, specifically areas of cotton farming in District Vehari. The study examines the impact of various integrated pest management (IPM) measures on pink bollworm population while reducing dependence on chemical control. The study adopts a mixed-method approach comprising quantitative surveys and qualitative methods, including Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), and Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) sessions, to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of the farmers. The new study recognizes general barriers to the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices like IPM, including lack of knowledge, lack of resources, and cost. Features farmer education, localized training, government policy support, and community-based participatory approaches as key to alternative agriculture, exemplified through the case of IPM in Peruvian highlands. The study helps address the knowledge gap about the negative ecological impacts of pesticides and underscores the importance of collaborative research, innovative technical solutions and campaigns to educate the public about sustainable pest control practices. Potential benefits include improved pest control efficiency, higher crop yields, and reduced environmental harm, especially when farmers play an active role in decision-making. Our findings will help contribute to the knowledge of what affects the uptake of IPM practices and offers insights on how to better reach farmers in order to combat Pink Bollworm through more sustainable, integrated systems, which can be useful for policymakers, agricultural extension services, and farmers themselves.