A thesis Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Regional and Rural Development Planning

This research analyzed the adoption of improved rice farming techniques provided by the Seed to Strength Project ofLoka Ahlinn Social Development Network in Bogale Township of Delta region of Myanmar. The main objective of the research was to analyze the adoption of improved rice farming techniques of farmers. The specific objectives were to examine the involvement of farmers in agricultural extension activities delivered by NGO and assess their satisfaction; to study adoption aspects of farmers in improved rice farming techniques, to analyze factors affected the adoption of improved rice farming techniques, to study continuation and/or discontinuation of improved rice farming techniques of farmers after adoption and identify risk factors, and to suggest recommendations to strengthen the adoption of improved rice farming techniques of farmers in Delta region ·of Myanmar. This research was focused on a three-year project (2012-2015) focusing on the agricultural extension activities of "Seed to Strength Project" . The research was conducted with three types of small, medium and large farmers from KyunTharYar village tract which was in Bogale Township of Delta region of Myanmar using a survey questionnaire as a main tool with a total of 93 sampled households. Field observation, key informants interview and focus group discussion were applied for data collection methods. The research was focused on quantitative analysis with the support of qualitative statement. Main findings of this research based on the four major techniques of rice seed selection and cultivation techniques, care of crop management, fertilizer and integrated pest/disease management and post harvest techniques. Majority of small, medium and large farmers participated in the classroom training and study plot and more large farmers frequently participated in farmers' seed production plot and field day/visit. Medium farmers more joined with farmer's forum/seed fair than small and large farmers. Small, medium and large farmers were satisfied with recommended technical aspects. Most of small, medium and large farmers adopted rice seed selection but did not adopt wet-bed method. Majority of small, medium and large farmers adopted line and spacing of transplanting techniques but did not adopt soil depth 1 inch of it. Majority of large farmers did not adopt regular weeding and rouging. Most of them did not adopt fish amino acid and fermented plant and fruit juices and integrated pest and disease management aspects. Most of small, medium and large farmers adopted post harvest technology. Factors affected the adoption of key aspects of rice seed selection and cultivation techniques, care of crop management, fertilizer and integrated pest/disease management and post-harvest techniques were varied by characteristics of small, medium and large farmers, social and institutional factors. A set of recommendations were given for all types of farmers to enhance the adoption and continuation of improved rice farming techniques that the techniques delivered by the project should be less labor, input and cost and available of raw material locally and simple and applicable for farmers.

Thesis (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2015