Assessing the Multi-Dimensional Challenges Faced by Bikaner Farmers during the COVID-19 Pandemic through Sentimental Analysis

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to unravel the intricate challenges farmers confront in the aftermath of COVID-19, delving into the effects on agricultural extension services and the marketing of agricultural products.
 Study Design: Ex-Post facto research design.
 Place and Duration of Study: The study was done by collecting data from farmers in Bikaner, Rajasthan, India, between July 2022 and August 2022.
 Methodology: The study gathered 586 responses through open-ended survey questions from 250 farmers, and a meticulous data-cleaning process reduced the constraints to 316. Sentiment analysis using Azure Machine Learning identified 136 highly negative statements, further refined through factor analysis into nine groups comprising 123 constraints. This rigorous methodology enhances precision, providing a nuanced understanding of farmers' challenges in agricultural extension services and product vending during the COVID-19 pandemic. The sentiment analysis score reflects the severity of constraints faced by farmers.
 Results: The livestock and their management dimension scored the lowest (0.212), reflecting significant obstacles such as cattle deaths and declining milk prices. Following closely, disruptions in agricultural services (0.218) underscored difficulties in accessing crucial services and a decline in input quality. Labor and workforce challenges (0.226) included shortages and healthcare difficulties while marketing and transporting constraints (0.231) highlighted problems like increased post-harvest losses and market closures. Financial challenges (0.233) involved limited access to relief funds and cooperative closures.
 Conclusion: Through systematic constraint identification, sentiment analysis, and factor analysis, this study unveils nuanced insights into farmers' challenges during the pandemic, enriching our understanding of agricultural resilience. The refined constraints underscore the severity and diverse nature of obstacles farmers face in COVID-19.