Preference of information sources by the fish farming communities of Muktagacha Upazila in Bangladesh

The main purpose of the study was to investigate the preference of information sources by the fish farmers with the reasons for such preference. Data were collected from seventy (70) randomly selected fish farmers (out of 350) from two villages of Kumargata union of Muktagacha upazila under Mymensingh district. A pre-tested and structured interview schedule was used to collect data during the period of 5 to 21 March, 2015. Farmer’s preference on information sources were ascertained through a 4-point rating scale. The majority of the respondents (90%) fell in low to moderate preference category of information sources. Among the fifteen (15) selected information sources; neighbor, television, experienced farmers, radio, input dealer, newspaper, local extension agent and farm laborer were major sources preferred by the majority of the farmers for getting information. While farm publications followed by NGO worker and Upazila Fisheries Officer were least preferred by the farmers as information sources. The main reasons for such preferences; competency of information sources, adequacy, timeliness, personal judgment, material incentive from the source and most importantly credibility of the source (safety, dynamisms, qualification etc.) were rated by the farmers. Different government organizations like Department of Fisheries should strengthen extension campaign to increase group activities of the farmers. This will generate more interaction between famers and the extension personnel. The existing mass media coverage especially television program should be increased. Therefore, it will improve the flow of information among farmers to play a vital role in getting timely information for fish culture. Key words: Information sources, preferences, neighbor, credibility, competency.