The Nexus between Agricultural Technology Adaptation and Productivity: Evidence from Hydro Greenhouse Systems in the Mullaitivu District

Abstract

Sustainable technological innovation can resolve the economic crisis that exists within a nation. Sri Lanka is a developing country with one out of every six people suffering from multidimensional poverty (UNICEF, 2022). The research serves as an experimental approach to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals [SDG] of no poverty (SDG No. 1), decent employment and economic growth (SDG No. 8), and industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG No. 9). The study involves conducting an experimental survey in the Mullaitivu District, focusing on three agricultural households selected from three Grama Niladhari Divisions (GNDs). The selection of these households was done using a stratified simple random sampling technique, ensuring representative coverage of the district. The study conducted utilizes technologically sophisticated interventions, referred to as a hydro greenhouse. This encompasses a greenhouse that is furnished with a hydroponic system, along with the inclusion of a photosynthetically active radiation diode. The control and experimental setups were reviewed for a period of 90 days. In conclusion, technological intervention in agriculture across war-torn regions has resulted in a significant increase in productivity, reduction in cost, and effective land and water utilization. Productivity was determined based on plant height and fruit yield. The households were trained on the construction and management techniques of the prototype named hydro greenhouse. To facilitate the commercialization of this method, it was proposed that the GND and DS officers leverage the results of the conducted experiment to obtain financial support from both governmental and non-governmental organizations. Keywords: Agricultural Technology, Greenhouse, Hydroponic System, Poverty Alleviation, Productivity