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Socio-technical system analysis of indigenous crop production practices for banana (Musa spp.)

ABSTRACT The present study, undertaken in the state of Kerala, India, documented 111 Indigenous Crop Production Practices (ICPPs; traditional practices) for banana and most of the practices were registered in the technology dimensions of seeds and seedlings (19%), manuring (19%), and planting in main field (15%). Of the 111 practices, 35 were selected for analysis of rationality, and for knowledge and adoption among farmers. Of the 35 practices, 27 (77%) were rated as rational and the scientific rationale/operational principles were elucidated in the study, revealing a strong scientific base for these practices. The knowledge of and the adoption of these traditional practices by farmers was found to be good. The effectiveness of the practices, as perceived by the farmers who had adopted them, were analysed for 21 practices, and it was found that majority (86%) of the traditional practices for banana production were effective. The study revealed that many indigenous practices for banana were both rational and effective. These practices require urgent attention in order to integrate them with modern technologies, which in turn would promote sustainable crop production and maintenance of ecosystem integrity. Abbreviation: ITK: indigenous technical knowledge