This research aims to: 1) figure out the socio-economic characteristics of farmers using farmer cards in Bobotsari Sub-district 2) discover the performance of farming managed by farmers using farmer cards in the research location, 3) find out the process of using farmer cards in Bobotsari Sub-district, 4) analyze the effectiveness of using farmer cards in Bobotsari Sub-district.
This research was conducted in the villages of Kalapacung, Karangtalun, and Pakuncen, Bobotsari Sub-district, Purbalingga Regency. This research was conducted using a survey method, and the data were collected through a questionnaire. 73 farmers in three villages were selected as research respondents to analyze the effectiveness of famers card.
The results indicated that most farmer were male, aged 49-68 years, graduated form elementary school, had 20 years of farming experience, owned their agricultural land (0.5 hectares), and had their capital form harvests. Most respondents grew rice (Inpari 32 variety) and corn (BISI-18) and used urea, phonska, and organic fertilizers. The respondents understood and used the farmer cards, including buying subsidized fertilizer at complete fertilizer kiosks.
The use of farmers cards in Bobotsari Sub-district was very effective, but farmers, who were mostly elderly, found it difficult to use them to save money. In addition, sometimes subsidized fertilizers were unavailable at complete fertilizer kiosks.
Thus, fertilization was not caaaied out on time. It is hoped that BRI, as the bank that issued the cards, can provide convenience by implementing a pick-up system for farmers who want to save. Besides, the owners of complete fertilizer kiosks are expected to always provide a sufficient amount of fertilizer so there is no shortage when farmers need it.