Effects of COVID-19 on Agricultural Productivity of Farmers in District Dir Lower, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Abstract

This study aims to examine the effects of COVID-19 on agricultural productivity of farmers in District Dir Lower. To the best of our knowledge, previous literature has ignored the impact of COVID-19 on agricultural productivity, and no empirical data have been collected in this regard in District Dir Lower. This study used multistage purposive and simple random sampling techniques for sample selection. Primary data were collected through interview schedules. A binary logistic regression model was applied to examine the effects of COVID-19 on the agricultural productivity of farmers. The results found that COVID-19 has significant effects on the agricultural productivity of the farmers in District Dir Lower. The study recommends that farmers should collaborate in groups to share farm inputs during the pandemic. Online marketing platforms should be established to increase farmers' access to farm inputs and connect with customers. Government and private sectors should provide financial aid and essential farm inputs to support farmers in increasing productivity. This study provides a unique perspective on the effects of COVID-19 on agricultural productivity in District Dir Lower, contributing valuable insight that has never or rarely been conducted previously.