Determinants of Sustainable Irrigated and Rainfed Rice Farming in Bangladesh

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In Asia, food security and poverty alleviation depends on sustainable rice production. The study examined factors determining irrigated and rainfed rice farming sustainability in Bangladesh. Data for the study were collected through a farm households survey, covering 390 rice growers (sample size was determined by using the Sloven’s formula), and also via observation, key informant interview, and in-depth informal discussion with relevant stakeholders. Validity of the survey instrument was assessed by experts through contents examination; yet, reliability was estimated by a post-hoc reliability analysis (the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of reliability was 0.86). Based on stepwise multivariate regression analysis, the study found that (i) grower’s knowledge, skill, and competency development are common influential factors affecting sustainable rice farming, (ii) the application of resource conservation technology in irrigated rice farming plays a leading role in increasing productivity and preserving natural resources, and (iii) raising land productivity is a decisive determinant for the sustainability of rainfed rice farming. The evidence-based policy implications deduced from the study are outlined.