Models and Lessons Learned in Mixed Farming of Agriculturists in Amnatcharoen Province

Abstract

              An analysis on mixed farming was related to the livelihood of farmers or agriculturists. This study analyzed the models of development and lessons learned from mixed farming. It was found that the development of mixed farming included: improvement and change; development system management; and application of technical principles, ideas, theories and experiences into practice.

              In Buddha Dhamma model and lessons learned in accordance with sufficiency economy in mixed farming, there were applications of Buddha Dhamma for agriculturists including: Santosa or contentment; Succarita or good conduct; Brahmavihara or sublime states of mind; Sangahavatthu or bases for social solidarity; Panca-sila or the Five Precepts; Panca-Dhamma or the five ennobling virtues; as well as the thoughts of sufficiency economy including: framework of living with knowhow; modesty; rationality; and self-immunization. Buddha Dhamma applied in accordance with the framework of philosophy and thought of sufficiency economy was, therefore, related to modesty, honesty, justice, discipline and adaptability based on social values. Agriculturists also know various aspects of the cause, consequence, one’s self, sense of proportion, proper time, and the difference of individuals. They could also be social leaders and apply the guidelines of leaders at governmental and national levels into practice. 

              In integrating appropriate Dhamma in the framework of the philosophy of sufficiency economy for acknowledging worthiness and values of mixed farming, the research found its worthiness and values in 2 areas including physical and psychological aspects. In physical aspect, the development improved the worthiness and values of agriculture, industry and commerce by applying: Mattannuta and Attannuta into moderation; Dhammannuta and Atthannuta into the cause and the consequence; and Kalannuta, Parisannuta and Puggalannuta into self-immunization. Mixed farming management was well planned in land use, labor and revolving fund relating to one’s living. In psychological aspect, worthiness and values resulted in the development in various aspects leading to peace, harmony and mutual support among the agriculturists.