DOI: 10.36347/sjavs.2014.v01i02.007

Pages: 83-89

Integrated pest management is an eco-friendly solution which can minimize the use of pesticides reducing the cost of production. The study was undertaken to identify the factors affecting the adoption of IPM practices along with reasons, problems and satisfaction level regarding IPM practice among apple farmers. Semi-structured interview schedule was prepared and field survey was conducted in July, 2013 for the collection of data regarding the IPM practice on apple production in Tukuche VDC at Mustang district of Nepal. The socio-demographic profile of the IPM adopters and non-adopters are presented. Probit analysis of a sample of 40 apple farmers suggests that adoption is positively influenced by training and membership in farmers group and negatively influenced by age of the farmers. Model resulted that the adoption level of IPM practice would increase by 45.8 % and 3.3% if farmers are provided trainings and membership in farmers group respectively. With one year increase in age the adoption level would decrease by 1.5 %. Farmer Field School facilitated by the district agriculture office and for management of pest and disease was the major reasons for IPM adoption. Lack of materials used in the IPM was the most severe problem faced by the IPM adopters followed by lack of detailed knowledge. Farmer Field School (FFS) was the major source of information followed by leader farmer in the study area. About 53 percent of farmers were satisfied with the practice. Study revealed that for higher adoption and dissemination of IPM practice it is needed to give more emphasis in extension programs..