journal of sustainable rural development

journal of sustainable rural development

Analysis of the Effects of Using Modern Technology in the Production of Saline-Resistant Agricultural Products and Its Adoption in the Coastal Villages of Chabahar in Southeastern Iran

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
1 PhD in Geography and Rural Planning, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran. Researcher at the Institute of Research in Planning, Agricultural Economics, and Rural Development.
2 Associate Professor, Institute of Research in Planning, Agricultural Economics, and Rural Development, Tehran, Iran.
10.22034/jsrd.2026.575073.1240
Abstract
Purpose: The present study aims to examine and analyze the effects of the application of modern technology in the production of saline- resistant agricultural products and its adoption in the rural areas of Chabahar.
Methods: This research is applied for the purpose and has an interpretive–analytical nature. Methodologically, it employs both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. To analyze the data, the grounded theory method, a one‑sample t‑test, and a hybrid multi‑criteria decision‑making model (FARAS - FKOPRAS) were employed. The statistical population of the study consists of two groups: the first includes farmers living along the coastal areas of the Chabahar Gulf, from whom 85 individuals were selected using convenience sampling. The second group consists of experts and specialists in the fields of agriculture, rural planning, and extension and development, selected through purposive sampling, resulting in a final sample of 23 participants.
Results: The results indicate that modern technologies have had significant economic and social impacts on saline agriculture in the Chabahar coastal region. Economically, these technologies have led to increased production and income, reduced costs, improved savings and investment, more efficient resource utilization, product diversification, and greater employment opportunities for low‑income workers. Socially, increased awareness and willingness to adopt new methods have contributed to reducing the migration of educated youth and preserving human capital in the region. The qualitative analysis based on grounded theory identified eight key factors affecting technology adoption, the most important of which, with a weight of 14.72, was the “recognition of the importance and necessity of technology in agricultural development.” This highlights the central role of awareness and perceived usefulness of technology as the foundation for any successful transformation in this field.
Conclusion: Modern technology in saline agriculture in Chabahar has led to both economic transformation (increased income and investment) and social improvement (reduced migration and enhanced awareness).
Keywords

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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 27 May 2026