Year: 2026 | Month: May | Volume: 13 | Issue: 5 | Pages: 54-74
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijrr.20260505
Cross-Sectional Study on Usage Patterns of Traditional Fertilizer and Pesticides Among Farmers in Krishnagiri Taluk, Krishnagiri District, Tamil Nadu
Dr. Maniprabha G1, Dr. S Balamani2
1PG Scholar (III year), Department of Nanju Maruthuvam, Government Siddha Medical College & Hospital, Palayamkottai.
2Assistant Professor, Department of Nanju Maruthuvam, Government Siddha Medical College & Hospital, Palayamkottai.
Corresponding Author: Dr. Maniprabha G
ABSTRACT
Background: Ancient farming practices are rich sources of sustainable agricultural techniques. The use of organic manure, compost and biofertilizers are the cornerstones of the traditional farming. Humans, the "masters of eco system" should start searching for solutions in nature by exploring traditional farming. Despite their benefits, many farmers in Krishnagiri Taluk depend on chemical pesticides and fertilizers, posing environmental and health risks. This study investigated how farmers use herbal fertilizers and pesticides, highlighting their importance in sustainable farming. This study focused on recording the usage patterns of traditional fertilizers and pesticides among farmers in Krishnagiri Taluk, Krishnagiri District.
Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among farmers in Krishnagiri Taluk using judgmental non-random sampling. Data were collected through direct interviews after obtaining informed consent and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2021.
Results: Farmers largely prefer traditional fertilizers due to their low cost (43%) and soil health benefits (23%), supporting sustainable agriculture by reducing their reliance on chemicals. However, 73% were unaware of government schemes promoting organic and herbal farming, indicating poor outreach and limited extension services availability.
Conclusion: Herbal fertilizers and pesticides are eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives that support biodiversity, reduce chemical exposure, and align with principles of regenerative agriculture. Encouraging their adoption can help tackle issues related to food safety and the environmental harm caused by the use of agrochemicals. Further research is needed to evaluate additional plant species for their insect-repellent properties and to support their wider adoption among farmers.
Keywords: Traditional Fertilizers, Herbal Pesticides, Bio fertilizers, Herbal Cultivation, Traditional Farming, Soil health.
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