International Journal of Horticulture, 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 18-30 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 20 areas of improvement in the GAP scenario. It will also determine the production challenges faced by farmers that can be addressed for efficient utilization of resources maximizing production with the least possible cost. 1 Materials and Methods 1.1 Study site The study was conducted in the Mandarin superzone commanding areas of Syangja district (Table 1). It lies in the hilly region at an altitude ranging from about 300 meters along the banks of Kaligandaki River up to 2,512 masl extending from a latitude of 28°4'60 North and a longitude of 83°52'0 East (https://lgisnepal.com/en/province/4). A preliminary study was carried out before the main survey to collect various socio-economic, demographic, and geophysical information about the study site. The questionnaires were prepared and the sampling framework was outlined by the use of the information. Table 1 Details of the study area S. N Municipality/ Rural Municipality Sample size 1. Putalibazar Municipality 60 2. Bhirkot Municipality 10 3. Waling Municipality 10 4. Arjunchaupari Rural Municipality 18 Total 98 1.2 Sampling technique Commercial registered Mandarin farmers from the PMAMP superzone were included in the sample. The total sample size (98) was determined using Yamane’s formula at 10% margin of error, I.e. n= �1+��2 Proportionate stratified followed by simple random sampling was done. Each municipality was defined as a stratum and the sample size in each was identified as per the population of every stratum. Mandarin farmers were then selected randomly as per the sample size from each stratum. 1.3 Research design The household survey was done to find out the orchard management practices of mandarin under the citrus superzone. 1.3.1 Preparatory phase The questionnaires and checklists relating to the adoption of good orchard management practices in Mandarin were prepared and sampling criteria and methodology were fixed. 1.3.2 Literature review Different literature regarding the study areas and other relevant documents related to the adoption of improved agricultural technology and GAP assessment was reviewed. 1.3.3 Pre-testing of the questionnaire Pre-testing of the questionnaire was done to assess the clarity of the questionnaire and its relevance to the participants. The necessary adjustments were made as per the requirements in the interview schedule. 1.3.4 Key informant’s interview The major key informants included were farmers, stakeholders, and concerned officers to know about the present scenario of mandarin cultivation and the status of orchard management in Syangja. 1.3.5 Questionnaire survey A field survey was conducted with mandarin growers in the target site to gather data related to socio-economic status, household information, and various orchard management practices. In addition, field visits and informal discussions were done with the respondents and pertinent information was recorded.
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