Guidelines for Developing the Potential of Farmer Organizations for Sustainable Self-Reliance
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Abstract
Farmer organizations serve as vital pillars in advancing and sustaining agricultural practices, particularly in fostering autonomy within farming communities. This mixed research endeavor adopts a comprehensive approach to address the pressing issue of agricultural household indebtedness and evaluate the effectiveness of the Farmer Rehabilitation and Development Project. The study aims to achieve objectives: 1). to scrutinize the status of farmers’ household debt and assess the outcomes of the Farmer Rehabilitation and Development Project; 2). to analyze the data and impacts stemming from the rehabilitation initiative on farmers; and 3). to provide recommendations for enhancing community organizations’ capacity for sustainable self-sufficiency. The quantitative dimension of the study encompasses 3,587 members of farmer associations and stakeholders spanning 77 provinces, with a purposive sample size of 2,788 individuals.
The outcomes portray a worrisome situation, emphasizing a persistent increase in debt levels within Thai farmer associations. However, inherent capabilities are apparent among the farmer collectives, establishing the foundation for possible progress. A total of four main tactics are specified for fostering this potential: 1) Leadership Development: Empowering individuals within farmer groups with the necessary skills and expertise to effectively address challenges. 2) Farmer Group Potential Development: Fostering the inherent potential of farmer groups through capacity development and resource allocation. 3) Social Networking Development: Cultivating strong networks and partnerships to facilitate knowledge sharing, cooperation, and assistance. 4) Development of Modern Information Technology: Embracing technological progress to streamline processes, access markets, and enhance decision-making. As Thailand plans its trajectory for the ensuing two decades, this strategic blueprint acts as a guide, directing policymakers, stakeholders, and farmer communities toward a future characterized by resilience, prosperity, and sustainable agricultural progress.
The quest for sustainable self-reliance in agriculture necessitates a multifaceted approach, as delineated through the objectives of this study. By delving into the realms of household debt, project evaluation, and community organization development, a holistic framework emerges, poised to guide farmer organizations toward sustainable growth and resilience. Through concerted efforts guided by these principles, farmer organizations can emerge as vanguards of agricultural sustainability, empowering farming communities to thrive amidst the challenges of the 21st century.
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