PROMOTING AWARENESS OF SAFE LIVELIHOOD AMONG HOUSEHOLDS OF THE LOWLAND COMMUNITIES SOUTH OF MAE SALUAM DAM IN PHRAO DISTRICT, CHIANGMAI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aimed: 1. To study awareness of safe right livelihood; 2. To examine the components of promoting awareness of safe right livelihood; and 3. To apply Buddhist principles as a guideline for promoting awareness of safe right livelihood among households at the Mae Saluam Reservoir Basin, Phrao District, Chiang Mai Province. The study employed a qualitative research design, collecting data from 25 key informants and conducting a focus group discussion with 8 participants, using a structured in-depth interview. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis.

The findings revealed that: 1. The households’ awareness of safe right livelihood was based on Buddhist teachings, with livelihoods adapted to the local environment, primarily focusing on longan cultivation as an economic crop. Households were aware of the safe use of agricultural chemicals, valued life stability, physical and mental health, and environmental well-being; 2. The components of promoting awareness among households in Phrao District comprised four aspects: 1. Values practicing environmentally responsible agriculture and following generational farming practices; 2. Cognitive patterns conserving local water sources and natural resources; 3. Adaptation promoting organic farming and reducing environmental harm; and 4. Interpersonal relationships fostering mutual support within the community for both agricultural production and environmental conservation; 3. The application of the Four Iddhipada (Bases of Accomplishment) principles as a guideline for promoting awareness of safe right livelihood was as follows: Chanda (aspiration) satisfaction with farming and intergenerational knowledge transfer; Viriya (effort) perseverance in chemical-free and environmentally responsible agriculture; Citta (attention) mindful practice in occupational activities and chemical use, with awareness of occupational safety; and Vimamsa (investigation) planning, staying informed on agricultural trends, and continuously reviewing farming practices to align with environmental conservation, reduce chemical usage, and sustain community livelihoods.