Vegetable Subsector Service Market Assessments, Bangladesh, IDE & KATALYST 2003
| Implementing agency(ies) | GIZ (formerly GTZ), International Development Enterprises (IDE), KATALYST, Swisscontact (SC) | |
|---|---|---|
| Funding agency(ies) | Department for International Development (DFID), KATALYST, Sida, SNV | |
| Date completed | October 2003 | |
| Geographic setting(s) | Rural | |
| Target Group(s) | Farmers, Mixed | |
| Sub-sector(s) | Agriculture (general), Horticulture | |
| Issues/challenges | weak markets | |
| Country(ies) | Bangladesh |
- Description
IDE (www.ideorg.org) and KATALYST carried out a rural market development analysis of the vegetable subsector, including the availability of good quality seed, fertilizer, and pesticides and farmers' knowledge of dosages, application methods. In interviews with more than 100 vegetable producers and related SEs, they identified constraints and used several criteria (potential impact, number of beneficiaries, seasonality, and appropriateness for IDE and KATALYST, length of intervention, and sustainability) to identify three services: 1) provision of good quality vegetable seeds; 2) provision of good quality fertilizers, pesticides, and micronutrients; and 3) improving farmers' understanding of soil testing benefits and proper input dosage and application.
The team developed tools for assessing demand (farmers) and supply (seed and input suppliers) for better quality seeds and inputs. To better understand the constraints facing users and suppliers, the team used qualitative data-capture questions with a samplings of service providers and users. Data analysis revealed constraints and possible interventions which the team then validated in focus group discussions.
The reports contain detailed descriptions of the areas of possible intervention the team identified in validation workshops, while the questionnaires inform the reader on the survey instruments used to collect data.
Methods for info gathering
Farmer and SE surveys, provider surveys, focus group discussions, qualitative, validation workshops
Summary of results
Good quality seeds and inputs are often not available, particularly in border areas. Although most farmers are aware of the need for fertilizers and pesticides, few know how to determine the correct amount or apply them properly. Even fewer have their soil tested before applying inputs.
Possible interventions the study identified included raising farmer awareness on soil testing, and selecting and using quality inputs; developing local soil-testing service providers and convincing suppliers to sell quality products; increasing local production of hybrid seeds; helping government and private companies to build the capacity of suppliers and lead farmers and establish links with farmers; promoting the purchase of seeds and seedlings from reputable companies and nurseries; and motivating companies to follow standard production and post harvest techniques.
Fertilizer Application SS-MA Report, Bangladesh 2003 (121KB)