A Study On Farmer's Willingness To Opt For Agritourism For Sustainable Development In Telangana

Abstract

Background: The Agritourism is a Special Interest Tourism (SIT) and created buzz among the agripreneurs in India. In the  last few decades, the concept of agritourism is gaining popularity which is an alternative income in the agriculture.  Agriculture is the major occupation for people in India than other developing countries, which is considered backbone of the  country's employment. Objectives: Sensing the importance, this study aims to identify farmers willingness to opt Agritourism,  the awareness of farmers regards with agritourism, and to explore the various tourism attractions in and around.  Methodology: Data were collected from 48 farmers of Mulugu district, at selected mandalas, Telangana. Using Purposive  sampling by employing both qualitative and quantitative methods from which information was collected i.e., one to one,  focused group interviews and questionnaire. Results: The study revealed major respondents are highly dependent on farming.  Around 50% of the farmers having their own land. As per data 100% of the family were involved in the farming activities.  Irrespective of the season 38% of the farmers do agriculture both rabi and kharif. Clearly 63% of the farmers are unaware of  agritourism concept, still majority i.e., 80% of the farmers are looking for alternative income, breakthrough 46% of the  farmers have given willingness to opt agritourism. On positive note 55% of the farmers would like to promote their village's art  and craft. 44% of the farmers clearly mentioned that they are not happy with selling rate of harvested crop. Finally entire  Mulugu district is blessed with all tourism attraction like historical, natural, religious, and cultural. Conclusion: It can be  concluded by the research that there is need for awareness on agritourism and lack of knowledge on alternate income and  alternate tourism.