Impact of Agricultural Technology among Santal Community in Bangladesh: Implications for Livelihood and Culture

Md. Shajahan Kabir; Samiul Haider; Razu Ahamed; Khorshed Jahan; Rahima Akther

Authors

Md. Shajahan Kabir Professor, Department of Rural Sociology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202 (Bangladesh)
Samiul Haider MS in Agricultural Economics (Production Economics), Department of Agricultural Economics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202 (Bangladesh)
Razu Ahamed Research Officer, Social Science Research Council, Planning Division, Ministry of Planning (Bangladesh)
Khorshed Jahan MS student, Early Childhood Development, BRAC University. Dhaka, Bangladesh 5 Faculty member, BIPM, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
Rahima Akther Faculty member, BIPM, Mymensingh, Bangladesh

Keywords:

Agricultural technology, Santals, Livelihood, Culture, Sustainable livelihood

Abstract

The Santals are known as one of the largest tribal people living in the North and Northwestern regions of Bangladesh. The implementation of agricultural innovations can greatly influence the way of life and traditions of this Santal community. Technology adoption can enhance the living standards of households and alleviate poverty; however, it encounters obstacles linked to government assistance and training for farmers. This study assesses their current livelihood status and analyses the livelihood changes resulting from adopting agricultural technology within the Santals community. By using a simple random sampling technique, the study selected 90 respondents. The quantitative data was collected by interviewing 90 respondents using a household survey, and the qualitative data were collected by conducting FDGs (4) and KIIs (3) with purposively selected participants in the study area. The quantitative analytical tools employed to attain the specific objectives included various descriptive statistical measures and the Problem Confrontation Index (PCI) by adoption technology. The study delves into the various agricultural technologies introduced in the region, such as high-yield crop varieties, mechanized farming equipment, and sustainable irrigation methods, and analyses their impact on crop yield, income generation, and overall livelihood improvement. The findings reveal a substantial increase in agricultural productivity and income among the Santal people due to the implementation of modern technologies. Income increased from 30% to 60% after adoption, showing a substantial +100% change. Food security improved from 45% to 70% after adoption, indicating a +55.6% change. Employment opportunities doubled from 20% to 40% after adoption, resulting in a +100% change. Health and well-being rose from 60% to 75% after adoption, reflecting a +25% change. Education Access grew from 25% to 45% after adoption, representing an +80% change. The vulnerability indicators also changed food security changed from 50% to 70%, climate resilience changed from 30% to 60%, market access changed from 405 to 70%, and income stability changed from 60% to 80% after technology adoption. Technology adoption has facilitated increased community engagement. Average Income (Taka/year): Before the adoption, the community had an average income of 25,000 taka per year. After the adoption, their income increased to 45,000 taka/year, marking a substantial improvement of +80%. The significance of technology adoption in improving the overall wellbeing of the Santal community cannot be understated.

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