Adoption of Labour-Saving Technologies in Southern Region
(Samdrup Jongkhar, Samtse, Sarpang, Trongsa, and Zhemgang): An Empirical Evidence from a Household Survey
This report presents an empirical study conducted by the Agriculture Research and Innovation Division (ARID) of the Department of Agriculture, Bhutan, to assess the adoption of labor-saving agricultural technologies across five southern districts—Samdrup Jongkhar, Samtse, Sarpang, Trongsa, and Zhemgang. The study involved a comprehensive household survey of 1,142 farmers, exploring the current adoption status, determining key influencing factors, and identifying barriers to adoption. Major technologies assessed include power tillers, mini tillers, and tractors. The findings highlight that factors like farm size, education, and peer influence significantly affect adoption, with cost being a major barrier. The report recommends policy interventions such as machinery hiring services, subsidies, and training programs to enhance adoption and boost productivity in Bhutan's agricultural sector.