Behavioural Nudges in Agricultural Extension: A Systematic Review of Strategies and Frameworks to Influence Farmers Decision Making
A. Thirumal *
Department of Agricultural Extension, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka– 560065, India.
Rajula Bheemannagari Deepika
Department of Agribusiness Management, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka– 560065, India.
B. P. Harish
Department of Agricultural Extension, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka– 560065, India.
R. Nirosha
Department of Agricultural Extension and Communications, VIT School of Agricultural Innovations and Advanced Learning, Vellore, Tamil Nadu – 632014, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Nudge theory, which has its roots in behavioral economics, has become well-known as a strategy for influencing choices without limiting personal freedom. Conventional methods of agricultural extension have mostly depended on the distribution of knowledge and financial incentives, presuming that farmers are logical decision-makers. However, empirical data shows that social norms, risk perceptions, cognitive biases, and contextual limitations frequently impact farmers' decisions, reducing the efficacy of conventional extension tactics. The goal of this study is to thoroughly examine the techniques, implementations, and theoretical underpinnings of nudge-based interventions in agricultural extension. Using predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, a systematic review technique was implemented, utilizing material from significant academic databases. In order to categorize nudge theories and investigate their empirical applicability in influencing farmers' behavior, pertinent researches were examined. The analysis highlights important nudge tactics that have demonstrated promise in boosting adoption of technology, encouraging sustainable agriculture practices, and improving adherence to environmental rules. These tactics include framing, default options, reminders, social comparison, and commitment mechanisms. According to empirical research, farmers' decision-making may be positively impacted by interventions such SMS reminders, social norm messages, and incentive-based nudges. However, these therapies' efficacy varies depending on the context and is frequently constrained when used alone. The study comes to the conclusion that policy interventions can be more successful when behavioral insights are incorporated into agricultural extension programs. It emphasizes the necessity of nudge-based strategies that are context-specific, scalable, and supported by empirical evidence in order to promote sustainable agricultural development.
Keywords: Farmer’s behaviour, nudging, strategies, agricultural extension, conceptual framework, applications of Nudge