DAMPAK EKONOMI TERHADAP PENGGUNAAN TEKNOLOGI PANEN PADI DI KECAMATAN KAMANRE KABUPATEN LUWU

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the economic impact of the use of modern harvesting technology, specifically combine harvesters, on rice farmers in Kamanre District, Luwu Regency. The study focused on three main indicators: savings in harvest time and labor, increased production yields, and increased farmer income. The research method used was a qualitative descriptive approach, with data collection techniques through observation, questionnaires, documentation, and interviews with 30 rice farmers as a sample. The results showed that the use of combine harvesters significantly improved harvesting time efficiency, from six days previously required to be completed in one day. Although rice production did not significantly increase, the use of this tool reduced crop losses and improved grain quality. Economically, harvesting cost efficiency improved, with lower costs compared to conventional methods. Farmers achieved an increase in net income of IDR 1,500,000 per hectare due to savings in harvesting costs. Therefore, it can be concluded that the application of modern harvesting technology has positively contributed to the economic conditions of rice farmers in Kamanre District, particularly in labor efficiency, reduced operational costs, and increased income.