Exploring the Solutionsof Agricultural Insurance Development in Iran

Agricultural insurance is one of the most practical responses of farmers to possible losses, increasing the social and economic security of the rural people. This study aimed at exploring the solutions of agricultural insurance development in Iran. This applied research was conducted in a survey method. The statistical population of the study consisted of brokers of the Agricultural Insurance Fund. The sample size was estimated 244 by the Cochran formula, selected through a multi-stage sampling. The questionnaire validity was confirmed through an experts panel and its reliability was calculated by Cronbach's alpha (α= 0.87). The study results showed that the most important solutions included increasing farmers' awareness about the importance of insurance and timely fulfillment of the obligations of the insurance fund. In addition, exploratory factor analyses could explain 44.67 percent of the total variance in four categories including policy-administrative, educational-information, facilitation-logistic, and socio-cultural approaches. Accordingly, educational and communication strategies for two groups of audiences and agents, application of ICT in the administrative system, the strengthening of financial resources and equipment of the private sector, development of methods of actuary and R&D, use of educated rural people as local brokers were recommended.