The Impact of BAZNAS's "Lumbung Pangan" Program on Farmer Productivity and Economic Welfare in South Kalimantan: Evidence from Agricultural Training and Support

Abstract

Agriculture plays a crucial role in the livelihoods of rural populations, particularly in developing regions such as South Kalimantan, where many farmers face challenges including low productivity, limited access to quality inputs, and financial instability. These issues hinder their economic growth and welfare, making targeted interventions essential for improving farm productivity and income. This study evaluates the impact of BAZNAS's "Lumbung Pangan" program in South Kalimantan on farmer welfare, with a focus on 80 farmers who received training and support in organic fertilizer production. Under the guidance of agricultural experts, these farmers were assisted throughout the planting to harvesting stages. The findings reveal significant improvements in crop yields and income among the participating farmers. Farmers reported an increase in crop productivity, which was statistically validated through a paired t-test. Results indicated a correlation coefficient of 0.229 (p = 0.041), and a paired sample test showed a significance of 0.000, thus rejecting the null hypothesis and affirming the influence of agricultural assistance from BAZNAS experts. This study highlights the effectiveness of targeted agricultural interventions on rural welfare, showcasing how support in organic farming practices can lead to economic advancement among beneficiaries.