The Driving to Sufficient Economy Philosophy for Change to Living and Market Economy to Self-sufficient Economy of Sugarcane Farmers and Cassava Plantation Farmers in Wichianburi District Phetchabun Province

Abstract

This research aims to enhance agricultural capabilities based on the philosophy of the Sufficiency Economy, transforming livelihoods from market-dependent to self-reliant systems, and establishing leading families capable of self-sufficiency.  This mixed-methods research employed quantitative and qualitative approaches using participatory action research.  Quantitative data was collected from 300 volunteer farmers, specifically those who participated in the "Life-Changing Farmer" training program.  Data analysis involved examining the causal relationship model of lifestyles under the Sufficiency Economy concept using LISREL software. Qualitative data was gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 20 leading farming families who participated in the program to shift livelihoods from market dependence to self-reliance based on the Sufficiency Economy philosophy.

The research findings are as follows:

1. Enhancing Agricultural Capabilities: A guide was developed to educate volunteer farmers, emphasizing understanding the life cycles of sugarcane and cassava, analyzing the costs of living and farming, and reducing reliance on external food sources, aligning with the Sufficiency Economy philosophy. The relationship test showed that the model was consistent with the empirical data (Chi-square = 46.81, P=0.924).


2. Transforming Livelihoods: Twenty leading farming families underwent assessments and designed their home areas to create food sources, expanding this to sugarcane and cassava fields. This resulted in an average weekly reduction of 54 baht in food ingredient expenses and an average weekly increase of 150 baht in income.


3. Establishing Leading Families: Twenty families underwent assessments, forming the Phu Nam Yod Organic Farming Community Enterprise. Four innovations emerged: 1) household accounting and occupational cost books; 2) family food area maps; 3) community farmer networks; 4) the Nai Yos Organic Farming Learning Center; and 5) the Phutha Niwet Phu Nam Yod farm, a knowledge and seed exchange center for farmers.

The innovations, knowledge, and development models derived from this research can serve as guidelines for enhancing agricultural potential based on the philosophy of the Sufficiency Economy. This approach aims to transform farmers' livelihoods from a market-dependent economy to a self-reliant economic system. It promotes farmers' self-sufficiency and empowerment, fostering sustainable self-reliance.