indonesia

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the effect of fertilizer subsidies, agricultural extension services, and their interaction on the productivity of lowland rice farming in Panorama Village, Singaran Pati Subdistrict, Bengkulu City. The research employed an explanatory quantitative approach using a simple random sampling technique to select lowland rice farmers as respondents. Primary data were collected through structured interviews based on questionnaires and complemented with secondary data obtained from relevant institutions. Multiple linear regression analysis was applied to assess the partial and simultaneous effects of the independent variables on rice productivity. The results indicate that, partially, fertilizer subsidies and agricultural extension services do not have a statistically significant effect on lowland rice productivity. Similarly, the interaction variable representing the synergy between fertilizer subsidies and extension services does not show a significant individual effect. However, when tested simultaneously, the three variables collectively influence productivity. These findings suggest that the effectiveness of fertilizer subsidies and extension services becomes more apparent when both are viewed as components of an integrated system rather than as separate policy instruments. Furthermore, the study reveals that improvements in rice productivity are not solely determined by subsidy policies and extension activities. Other factors, including agroecosystem conditions, land and seed quality, irrigation management, labor availability, access to capital, and farm management practices, also play important roles. Therefore, efforts to enhance rice productivity require a comprehensive, context-specific, and sustainable policy approach to ensure more optimal outcomes for farmers.