Farmers’ perception and role of mobile phone for maize production in Bangladesh

The current study investigates the advantages of the use of mobile phones to improve maize ( Zea mays L.) production in Dinajpur Sadar, Bangladesh. A survey of 300 farm households has been undertaken to establish farmers' opinions and the determinants influencing the use of mobile phones using econometric modeling. Farmers' opinions toward mobile phones are generally positive, especially with regards to obtaining information on new farming, market price, and crop diseases. The study finds that more educated farmers, farmers who have higher incomes, access to loans, group membership, and contact with agricultural advisors are better placed to use mobile phones. Family age and size are not particularly significant. Further analysis shows that the use of mobile phones, together with traditional farm inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, boosts maize output. The findings show that mobile technology can make a productive contribution to increase maize productivity in Bangladesh.