Impact of Training Programs on Apple Farmers' Income in Maidan Wardak Province, Afghanistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59261/jaetd.v3i1.55Keywords:
agricultural training, apple farmers, farm income, maidan wardak, afghanistan, extension servicesAbstract
Agricultural training programs are widely recognized as essential instruments for improving farmers' knowledge, skills, and productivity in developing countries. This study aimed to examine the impact of training programs on apple farmers' income in Maidan Wardak Province, Afghanistan. A purposive sampling design was employed, and primary data were collected from 30 apple farmers in Sayedabad District. Structured interview schedules were used to capture socio-economic characteristics, input use, crop costs, and returns both before and after training participation. Descriptive statistics and cost-return analysis were applied. Results revealed that the total variable cost of apple cultivation declined from Rs. 3,89,750 per hectare before training to Rs. 3,64,328 after training, primarily due to reduced chemical fertilizer and plant protection chemical use. Net returns increased significantly from Rs. 2,62,846 to Rs. 3,92,441 per hectare, representing a 49 percent improvement. The benefit-cost ratio improved from 1.55 to 1.86, and the cost per kilogram of output declined from Rs. 14.24 to Rs. 11.14. The findings confirm that training programs organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock of Afghanistan in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization had a positive and statistically meaningful impact on production efficiency and farm income. The study recommends scaling up farmer training programs with emphasis on integrated pest management, market-oriented production, and post-harvest handling to maximize long-term income gains.
