Author : Wai Mar Lynn

Summary : Myanmar has a predominantly agricultural economy which is based on rice
production including upland and lowland. To improve rice self-sufficiency for upland
families, it is critical point to improve upland rice yield per unit area rather than
increase the areas of production. The aim of this research was to study how upland
farmers manage their farming activities and to investigate the major factors which are
related to the upland rice productivity .The study used qualitative approach and the
survey was conducted in July, 2016 at Hin Khar Pin village, Kalaw Township,
Southern Shan State, Myanmar by using purposive sampling method and the sample
size was 37 households. The primary data were collected through semi-structured
interview, focus group discussion, in-depth interview and direct observation. The
interviewed farmers in upland rice farming are low education, lack of knowledge
about crop management patterns, poor in Good Agricultural Practice (GAP). Their
existing farm management practices follow the traditional methods, such as wrong
method for weeds control, no or minimal fertilizer application. Most of the upland
farmers are not aware that they could increase yield by using improved management
practices. The study found three main factors such as biological factors, physical
factors and social factors that are related to the productivity and income of upland rice
growing farmers especially in education, total income and expense, ownership status,
health condition, farm mechanization and nutrient management. To increase upland
rice production, farmers need to adjust their planting and management practices in
efficient ways. Therefore, rural development and knowledge distribution through the
farmers are urgently needed.