ASSESSMENT OF MANGO BASED AGROFORESTRY SYSTEM OF AMORPUR, VIAL AND PUNOTTI UNIONS IN CHIRIRBANDAR UPAZILA OF DINAJPUR DISTRICT

Abstract

This study conducted in Amorpur, Vial, and Punotti Unions of Dinajpur District, Bangladesh, aimed to assess the mango-based agroforestry systems by examining farmers' socio-economic characteristics, adoption of management practices, economic performance, associated problems, and extension media contact. A total of 38 farmers practicing mango-based agroforestry were selected through a multi-stage random sampling procedure. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule and analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, range). The findings revealed that most respondent farmers were middle-aged (mean 42.5 years) with primary to secondary level education. The average family size was 6 persons, and the mean farm size was 1.5 hectares, with significant portions dedicated to own cultivation and homestead agroforestry. Annual family income averaged BDT 350,000, predominantly from agricultural sources. Farmers exhibited a generally high level of agroforestry knowledge (mean 3.05 on a 4-point scale). Regarding adoption, the average area under mango based agroforestry was 0.75 hectares, with a mean practice duration of 8 years, indicating sustained engagement. Adoption of improved mango varieties and air layering was rapid and widespread. However, the use of hormones and mulching showed polarized adoption patterns, with half of the farmers not adopting these practices or adopting them significantly later. Intercropping, a core practice, showed a phased but substantial adoption. Economic analysis indicated an average material cost of BDT 85,000 per hectare, with fertilizers and pesticides forming the largest share. Farmers generally held positive attitudes towards the profitability and long-term returns of mango-based agroforestry, while perceiving its complexity and maintenance costs as manageable. Key problems identified included "Lack of proper training facility," "Lack of skilled labor," "Disease infestation," "Problems of irrigation in dry season," "High price of fertilizer," and "Lack of improved seedlings," all reported by over 70% of respondents. "Litter fall" was also a concern for half the farmers. Farmers primarily relied on direct human contact (SAAO, model owners, neighbors) and "Watching TV Programmes" for agricultural information. Printed materials and NGOs had significantly limited reach. The study concludes that mango based agroforestry is a well-established and economically attractive system in the region, sustained by a knowledgeable farming community. However, its full potential is hindered by persistent challenges related to technical knowledge gaps, labor, and specific inputs, coupled with underutilized formal extension channels. Recommendations include strengthening agroforestry-specific training programs, addressing skilled labor shortages, enhancing access to quality inputs, improving marketing infrastructure, promoting community-based solutions for animal grazing, and diversifying extension media channels, particularly leveraging digital platforms. These interventions are crucial for fostering a more resilient, productive, and economically viable mango-based agroforestry sector in Dinajpur District.