Análise da qualidade do Sistema Plantio Direto (SPD) em áreas produtoras de grãos no Paraguai: um estudo baseado no Índice de Qualidade Participativo (IQP)

Abstract

This study aimed to apply the methodology of the Participatory Quality Index (PQI) of the No-Tillage System (NTS) in grain-producing areas of the municipalities of Hernandarias and Santa Rita, located in the Alto Paraná Department, Paraguay. The research is justified by the importance of soil and water conservation in the face of intensive and continuous agricultural land use, as the NTS stands out as one of the most effective conservation practices to ensure production sustainability. The study sought to assess the technological level of rural properties and evaluate the efficiency of the management practices adopted, considering both the principles of NTS and farmers’ perceptions of the system. The methodology was based on the application of the PQI, a tool composed of eight technical indicators that make it possible to diagnose management quality and guide improvements in crop management. Interviews were conducted with local producers to identify their educational level, the degree of adoption of NTS, and the main difficulties encountered in its implementation. The research faced some resistance from farmers to participate, which limited the number of interviews but still allowed for representative sampling. The results indicated that the technological level of the farms is directly related to the farmers’ education and access to technical assistance, with properties receiving greater technical support achieving better conservation management and productivity outcomes. It was also observed that many farmers only partially understand the principles of NTS, adopting practices that compromise its effectiveness, such as periodic soil tillage and low crop diversification. It is concluded that the dissemination of technical knowledge and the expansion of rural technical assistance are essential to strengthen the full adoption of NTS in Paraguay, promoting greater sustainability and production efficiency. The PQI proved to be an effective tool for diagnosing weaknesses and proposing management strategies suitable for local conditions.