MODERN TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION IN BEEF CATTLE FATTENING: FARMERS’ KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES

Abstract

The adoption of modern technology is crucial for improving the beef cattle fattening industry in Bangladesh. This study aimed to identify the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of beef cattle farmers regarding various technological practices, such as supplementary feeding, routine vaccination, housing of cattle, minerals supplementation, cleaning of housing, detection and isolation of sick cattle, de-ticking of cattle, and hoof trimming. The study analyzed the data obtained from 80 beef cattle farmers using a structured questionnaire. The results of the study revealed that supplementary feeding, routine vaccination, housing of cattle, de-ticking of cattle, and hoof trimming are widely practiced by the farmers. However, minerals supplementation, cleaning of housing, and detection and isolation of sick cattle are not frequently practiced. The study also found that farmers mainly gained knowledge from other farmers and NGOs, and radio/TV education played a minor role in disseminating information about technological practices. The study concludes that beef cattle farmers in Bangladesh have a positive attitude toward adopting modern technology, but further extension services and training programs are required to increase the adoption rate of less frequently used technological practices. The results showed that while supplementary feeding (92.5%), routine vaccination (80%), housing of cattle (73.75%), de-ticking of cattle (96.25%), and hoof trimming (95%) were widely practiced, minerals supplementation (41.25%), cleaning of housing (21.25%), and detection and isolation of sick cattle (35%) were less frequently practiced. The study also found that farmers mainly gained knowledge from other farmers (ranging from 30% to 56% depending on the practice) and NGOs (ranging from 9% to 31%), and radio/TV education played a minor role (ranging from 1% to 28%). Technology adoption should be a strategic decision based on their specific circumstances and goals. It's important to carefully evaluate each technology and its potential impact on their farm before making any significant investments.