Comparison of the Application of Local and Superior Rice Varieties in Terraced Rice Fields and their Implications for Farmers' Income

Abstract

Using local and superior rice seed varieties is one of the factors in increasing farmers' production and income. Therefore, in making decisions, farmers need to choose which seed varieties are the most profitable and high quality. This study compared the use of local and superior rice varieties on terraced land and its implications for farmers' income from both varieties. The samples of this study were 30 farmers using local rice seed varieties and 30 farmers using superior varieties. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis, R/C ratio analysis, and independent sample t-test analysis. The results showed that in terms of consumers, rice derived from local rice varieties is more desirable, although it is sold at a relatively higher price than superior varieties. As consumer demand is relatively high, farmers as producers tend to plant local varieties even though superior varieties are more efficient and there is seed assistance (subsidy) from the government. The independent sample t-test analysis showed a significant difference between farmers' income using local and superior rice varieties (0.000<0.005), with an R/C ratio value of local varieties 3.46 and superior varieties 2.71.