Socio-demographic and institutional factors influencing adoption of biofertilisers by dairy farmers in the Lower-Gangetic Plains, India

Biofertilisers offer a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilisers by improving soil health, reducing input costs and supporting the productive utilisation of dairy farm waste like dung, thereby contributing to environmental protection. Framed within diffusion of innovations theory (involving adopter characteristics, perceived relative advantage, and compatibility) this study analysed the socio-demographic and institutional determinants driving the adoption of biofertilisers by 680 trained dairy farmers. The study determined the key variables differentiating adopters (n = 228) from non-adopters (n = 452) using a binary logistic regression model, ANOVA, and chi-square tests. Older farmers, larger livestock herd owners, experienced farmers, and lower-income households showed higher biofertiliser adoption rates. Regular access to agricultural extension services and organisational membership significantly raised the odds of adopting the technology. Perception-based factors, especially low fear of crop-yield loss, were powerful predictors. These findings guide policy for poverty reduction and efficient waste management.