A Model for Transitioning from a Market-dependent Economy to a Self-sufficiency Economy based on the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy

Abstract

This research article aimed to drive the change of livelihood from a market-dependent economy to a self-reliant economy based on the sufficiency economy philosophy of sugarcane and cassava farmers in Wichian Buri District, Phetchabun Province. It was a participatory action research. Data were analyzed by contextual analysis. An analytical descriptive report was presented. The research results showed that volunteer farmers, 20 families, participated in the life-changing farmers training course on "Stepping to a Sufficient Life" aimed at farmers to understand the  sufficiency economy philosophy and be able to apply it effectively suitable and "food security action" that aimed to allow farmers to create a change towards sustainable self-reliance according to the sufficiency economy philosophy by designing an empty area around the house, sugarcane and cassava fields as an area to create food security and to experiment with growing more than 10 types of vegetables for household consumption. Overall, an average area was allocated for each family of 59 square wah.  When receiving product, farmers could reduce their expenses on vegetables used to cook an average of 54 baht per family per day and could also increase income from selling vegetables on average 150 baht per day by selling product through organic farming groups that had jointly set up and shops in the community. It made the main group of farmers had food that was safe for consumption. It could take advantage of the available space to generate extra income for the family, and create happiness in the community through learning to contribute to good health by sharing safe food with each other.