Factors Driving the Shifting of Land From Rice to Aquaculture Farming in Bangladesh

Farmers’ decisions regarding land usage have evolved over time. Small farmers have a tendency to make a variety of land usage choices. This study examined the relative profitability and determining factors of shifting cultivation. A total of 110 farmers were selected using a multistage random sampling technique. The objectives of the study were attained using descriptive statistics and Probit regression. The results indicated that the decision to shift land towards small-scale aquaculture is financially profitable. The econometric model indicated that occupation, education, farm size, and perception of rice price had a significant impact on the decision to shift land. Farmers who perceive a lower rice price are 6.1% more likely to shift than those who perceive a higher price. Capital shortage and a high cost of feed in shifting cultivation were among the various obstacles respondents faced. If a rice farm undergoes conversion into a fish farm, it is imperative for the government to enact policies that can facilitate farmers in making informed decisions.