Adaptation of salt farmers in Song Buri Si Mahasamut area: The Survival challenge faced by salt farmers in the AI-Robotic era

Abstract

The  main  objective  of  this research is to study guidelines for the sustainable development  of salt farmers in Samut Songkhram and Samut Sakhon provinces. The aim  is  to  enable their survival in the AI-Robotic era economy through the utilization of  a  qualitative  research  method,  which  involved  conducting  interviews with 17 individuals   using   a  structured  interview  form.  The data  gathered  was  analyzed through content analysis.

The  research  findings  indicate  that guidelines for developing sustainable salt farming among three distinct groups of salt farmers are as follows:

1. The progressive-minded   group:  This   group   should  be  provided  with opportunities  to  lead  in  jointly formulating policies aimed at transitioning from salt farming to becoming "salt field entrepreneurs."
2. The group adhering to traditional practices: For this group, which continues to  sell  salt  products  to  middlemen,  the  government  should  establish  a  policy ensuring  stable salt prices. This measure aims to instill confidence in the salt farming profession.  With  assured income, salt farmers are more likely to maintain their fields and sustain their careers.
3. The group facing  spatial  constraints:  Geographically  confined  to  the Na Kluea   area   of  Bang  Torad  Subdistrict,  this  group  requires  special    A dedicated  agency  should  be  established to promote tourism centered around salt farming and the transportation of salt via boats. The allure of visiting the salt fields at Bang Torad is tied to the unique experience of witnessing salt transportation by boat, an  activity  dictated  by  the  ebb  and flow of tides. This area is notable as the only place where salt cannot be transported by car.

All  three  groups  of  salt farmers have good access to natural capital, but the third  group  needs  access  to  physical  capital due to inadequate resources for salt farming  operations,  such  as  the  salt  transportation  system.  Regarding  access  to financial  capital,  comprehensive subsidies for production factors are lacking, as well as  access  to  low-interest  loans.  Additionally,  social  capital  among salt farmers is limited,  with  only  certain  groups  participating  with  leaders or communities in the development or preservation of the salt farming profession.

Key words : Adaptation, Salt farmers, Artificial Intelligence Technology