Application of science and technology in crop production of farm households in some provinces of the Northern midlands and mountainous areas of Vietnam.

Applying science and technology (S&T) in agriculture is paramount for enhancing productivity, improving product quality and value, and ultimately increasing farm household income, particularly in challenging terrains like Vietnam's Northern Midlands and Mountainous Provinces (NMMP). This region, crucial for its diverse agricultural outputs, faces unique hurdles in modernizing its farming practices. This study aims to comprehensively assess the current status of S&T application in crop production among farm households in this region and to identify key factors influencing technology adoption. Furthermore, it seeks to propose actionable solutions to promote broader and more effective S&T utilization in agricultural production. Employing a quantitative approach, the research utilized survey data from 1,040 farm households across 52 communes in six strategically selected provinces within the NMMP, focusing on key agricultural products including rice, tea, vegetables, and fruit trees. Descriptive statistics and comparative analysis were the primary methods for data evaluation. The findings reveal a varied landscape of S&T adoption. Key technological applications observed include mechanization, predominantly for land tillage; the use of new and improved crop varieties, especially for rice and tea; the adoption of water-saving irrigation systems, notably for vegetables and tea; the implementation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) such as VietGAP and organic farming principles; and the application of biological inputs, including organic fertilizers and bio-pesticides. A significant gap was identified in applying S&T solutions for post-harvest preservation and processing of agricultural products, which remains minimal among the surveyed households. The study further identifies several critical factors that significantly affect farmers’ decisions and the extent of S&T application. These include the existing policy environment and support mechanisms, the availability and adequacy of farm households’ production resources (such as capital, land, and labor), prevailing market conditions for agricultural inputs and outputs, and the state of essential production and market infrastructure. Based on these findings, the study offers several recommendations for fostering greater S&T adoption. These encompass strategic policy adjustments to enhance accessibility and support, initiatives for land consolidation, innovation in agricultural extension services to improve knowledge transfer, strengthening market linkages for S&T-derived products, focused training programs, particularly for younger farmers, and continued investment in rural infrastructure development. Addressing these areas is crucial for unlocking the full potential of S&T to drive sustainable agricultural growth and improve livelihoods in the NMMP region.