Impact of COVID-19 on Farmers: Insights from Factor Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic has inflicted profound disruptions on global economies, with significant repercussions for agriculture and rural communities. This study investigates the impact of COVID-19 on farmers through factor analysis, focusing on socio-economic dynamics and resilience in the agricultural sector. Data was collected from rural communities through focus group discussions, personal and key informant interviews in Chikkaballapur district, Karnataka, India, during the peak of the pandemic. Factor analysis was employed to identify underlying variables and explore the relationships among them. Results indicate that the pandemic has exacerbated existing challenges faced by smallholder farmers, disrupting agricultural activities and livelihoods. Factors such as education, family size, and farm size emerged as critical determinants of resilience, emphasizing the importance of socio-economic empowerment and resource access. Additionally, infrastructure and resource availability, represented by factors like water resources and service sector facilities, played pivotal roles in shaping agricultural outcomes. Insights from the principal component analysis (PCA) provide valuable guidance for policymakers and practitioners in devising targeted interventions to mitigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities in rural areas. By understanding the key factors driving socio-economic dynamics and agricultural productivity, stakeholders can foster sustainable development and resilience in agricultural communities amidst unprecedented global crises like COVID-19. The study underscores the urgent need for evidence-based strategies to address the multifaceted impacts of the pandemic, ensuring the well-being and resilience of farmers and rural communities in the face of uncertainty and adversity. Based on the findings, it is recommended that policymakers prioritize socio-economic empowerment and infrastructure development in rural areas to enhance resilience and sustainable development in agricultural communities, especially during global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.