Key factors affecting the adoption of biopesticide using logit and probit model: A study from Bihar, India

This study investigates the factors influencing farmers' adoption of biopesticides in Bihar, India, using binary logit and probit models. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews with 540 farmers across four districts, with 16 variables including demographic, farm characteristics, cognitive traits, and social factors. The results show that gender, age, education level, family income, farming system, health, perceived benefits, subjective norms, and intention to use biopesticides significantly impact adoption. The logit and probit models exhibited good fit, with pseudo-R<sup xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">2</sup> values of 0.728 and 0.722, respectively. Male farmers, older farmers, and those with higher perceived benefits from biopesticides were more likely to adopt. Surprisingly, higher education and income negatively affected adoption, possibly due to the preference for commercial farming. Social influences, particularly from peers and family, were crucial in shaping farmers’ intentions to adopt biopesticides. Training programs on biopesticide use also played a significant role in adoption. The study underscores the importance of targeted training, financial incentives, and leveraging social networks to promote the adoption of sustainable farming practices. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers aiming to encourage biopesticide use and foster sustainable agriculture in the region.