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EA - Volume 70 - Issue 3

[<<< GO BACK ][ VOLUME 70 - ISSUE 3 ]

Title: Content
Abstract :

Content

Title: Editorial
Abstract :
Drip irrigation increases a farmer’s income by enhancing yield and reducing operational costs. Drip Irrigation technique involves the slow application of water to the soil through a network of pipes, emitters, and valves, delivering water directly to the roots of the plants. This approach allows for precise and controlled delivery of water, which is particularly useful in areas with limited water resources, such
as India. Water scarcity is a major problem in India, with many of the country’s population dependent on agriculture for their livelihoods. With an increasing population and growing urbanization, the water demand is steadily increasing, leading to a significant strain on the country’s water resources. Drip irrigation can help address this issue by using water more efficiently, reducing waste, and increasing
crop yields. Water stress during critical growth stages significantly affects the yield of horticultural crops. Vegetable crops, particularly, are highly sensitive to water stress, and timely irrigation is essential for optimal yield.
Title: Adoption Dynamics of the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) Among Farmers in Odisha
Abstract :

This study examines the adoption of System of Rice Intensification (SRI) practices among smallholder rice farmers in Odisha’s Ganjam district, where rice is a predominant crop.SRI, a resource-efficient cultivation method, has demonstrated increased yields with lower input costs, making it particularly suitable for resource-poor farmers. Despite SRI’s benefits, its adoption remains limited due to socio-economic challenges, particularly for small and marginal farmers. The study utilized an ex-post facto research design, involving a sample of 80 farmers across four villages in Digapahandi and Sanakhemundi blocks. Data were collected through personal interviews and analysed using statistical tools like correlation and multiple regression.

Title: Is Kinnow Mandarin Still Economically Viable in 2024? A Case Study of Sirsa District of Haryana
Abstract :

The economic viability of Kinnow Mandarin production remains a significant concern for farmers and policymakers in North-Western India. This study evaluates the sustainability of Kinnow production in 2024, focusing on Sirsa district, Haryana. Previous research has emphasized the profitability of Kinnow cultivation, with high returns on investment and efficient marketing channels ensuring up to 81% of the consumer price for farmers.

The establishment cost of Kinnow orchards in Haryana is estimated at  ` 127,979 per hectare, with an annual net return of ` 272,845, yielding an internal rate of return (IRR) of 26.24%. As every year, there is change in cost of production and returns in the value chain of kinnow because of fluctuating prices of input as well as price of the commodity, it is important to find current cost and returns associated in the business. This study aims to provide a comprehensive financial analysis and highlight key challenges and opportunities to sustain Kinnow’s economic viability.

Title: Agricultural Technology Adoption in Garo Hills, Meghalaya: An Adoption Index Analysis
Abstract :

Agriculture technology has the potential to improve both productivity and sustainability. The agriculture sector in Meghalaya’s Garo Hills region heavily depends on traditional practices such as shifting cultivation also known as ‘Jhumming” with minimal integration of modern agricultural technologies. This study aims to evaluate the adoption of improved agricultural practices among farmers in five districts of Garo Hills. A sample of 500 farmers was selected to assess their adoption of improved agricultural technologies.

The respondents were classified as low, partial, or high adopters based on their score index. The results showed a strong tendency toward partial adoption, with 68.40% of farmers classified as partial adopters, 15.60% as low adopters and 16.00% as high adopters. The study found that demographic, socioeconomic and educational characteristics influence farmer technology adoption with gender, age, education, landholding size and income showing significant relationships.

Title: Assessing Resource Use Efficiency and Addressing Production and Marketing Problems of Tomato in Solan District, Himachal Pradesh: A Case Study
Abstract :

The present study has been designed to investigate the resource use efficiency and identify the issues and challenges of tomato growers. A sample of 400 farmers cultivating tomato was selected using multistage random sampling. The CAGR for area, production and productivity during period (1995-96 to 2019-20) increased at rate of 4.96 per cent, 6.85 per cent and 1.85 percent in Solan district respectively, indicated that the tomato has been major cash crop sown in this area. The Coefficient of determination was 0.82 which indicated that 82 per cent variation in tomato production. The ratio of MVP/MFC was greater than unity that indicated increasing return to scale and the resources were underutilized which signifies that there is need to enhance usage of inputs and package of practices for the maximization of profits. The major issues and challenges related to tomato production and marketing were shortage of skilled labor, high wages rates, high price of fertilizers, high price of plant protection chemical, non-availability of quality seed, lack of cold storage and agro processing units along with post-harvest losses. There is need to reduce the number of intermediaries to increase producers share in consumer’s rupee and better marketing facilities for cold storage and value addition.

Title: A Garrett’s Ranking Approach to Identifying Constraints in Sustainable Crop Residue Management in Central Uttar Pradesh
Abstract :

Crop residue burning in the agricultural sector has emerged as a significant environmental and public health concern, contributing to air pollution, climate change, and various health-related issues. This study examines the challenges farmers face in adopting sustainable crop residue management practices (SCRMPs) in the Central region of Uttar Pradesh (U.P.), India, focusing on the districts of Hardoi and Lucknow. The research uses a multi-stage sampling method to collect data from 320 farmers across eight blocks and 32 villages. The study highlights the major constraints in adopting SCRMPs, including labour shortages during peak harvest periods, high labour and machinery costs, unpredictable weather patterns, and inadequate access to modern residue management equipment. Garrett’s Ranking Technique was employed to prioritise the constraints based on farmers’ perceptions, revealing that labour-related challenges and financial barriers are the most significant.

Title: Decomposition and Instability Trends in Cumin Production: A Study of Rajasthan
Abstract :

Cumin is an important seed spice crop, with significant medicinal properties. India, the leading producer of cumin, accounts for 70% of the world’s production with Rajasthan and Gujarat contributing nearly 80% of the total area under cumin cultivation. This research addressed the growth instability and variability of Rajasthan’s cumin production. Certain statistical methods, such as the compound growth rate, Cuddy-Della Valle Index, and Decomposition model were used in this research. Area, production, and productivity also revealed positive and significant growth rates, according to the statistics; Jaisalmer recorded the highest productivity growth (18.57%). Rajasthan’s cumin production was primarily driven by the rise of cultivated area, contributing 67.70% to the overall growth, while yield improvements contributed for 11.23%.

Title: Exploring the Pattern of Male Migration in Western Odisha, India
Abstract :

While most of the short-term migration from low-income states occurs to metropolitan centres in high-income states and the important points of reference are the seasonal migrations from western and southern Odisha. This study aimed to find the pattern of migration, reasons and nature of job performed by the migrants in the destination from the Western Odisha region. The study was conducted in Kalahandi and Balangir districts and a sample size of 200 migrant was studied using simple random sampling. It followed exploratory research design. The findings of the study revealed that the mean age of the migrants was about 34 years and the Schedule Tribes (STs), and Schedule Castes (SCs) were overly represented in the migration stream. Majority (70.5%) of the migrant sending households belonged to BPL category and most of them (49.0%) reported daily wage as their primary occupation before migration. Kerala (45.0%) and Tamil Nadu (40.0%) were the most favoured destinations for Migrants in Kalahandi and Balangir district respectively. Lack of employment at home (44.0%) was the most reported reason for migration. Most of the respondents performed casual labour in industries (25.5%). Destinations like Maharashtra and Gujarat are strongly linked to high wages as a reason for migration, whereas absence of work in the migrants’ home, on the other hand, seems to be the main driver of migration to Kerala, suggesting a push-factor dominated flow.

Title: Business Viability and Market Linkages of Groundnut Value Added Products of Nagarkurnool FPO (Nagarkurnool) and Kashyam FPO (Wanaparthy) in Telangana
Abstract :

The study evaluates the business viability and market linkages of major groundnut value-added products, including cold-pressed groundnut oil, groundnut chikki, and raw groundnut kernels. Key financial metrics such as cost, revenue, profitability, and benefit-cost (B:C) ratio are analysed to determine economic feasibility. The findings indicate that Cold-Pressed Groundnut Oil has a modest B:C ratio of 1.05, highlighting the need for improved market linkages and operational efficiencies to enhance profitability. Groundnut Chikki, despite its low investment and seasonal production, shows potential with a B:C ratio of 1.06, but higher fixed costs and limited branding impact margins.

Title: Challenges and Opportunities of Rural Agricultural Farmers in Rayagada District of Odisha
Abstract :

Agricultural development has been emphasized by Government of India since independence. More than 23.43% of the nation’s GDP comes from the agriculture and husbandry industry. Around 45.76% of Indian workforces are engaged in agriculture and allied production (2022-23 report of National Sample Survey Office).

Odisha is endowed with abundant natural resources but it holds 13th rank in economic contribution in India (report of Odisha economic survey, 2023-24). The total rural population in India is 63.64% (World Bank report, 2024), and 83.31 % in Odisha (Census report, 2011), but 48.8 percent workforce is engaged in agricultural sector (Government of Odisha report, 2024).

Current population of Odisha is 41,974,218 and Rayagada district is 820,945. Total agricultural land in Odisha is reported as 6,782 000 ha, where as Rayagada district accounts for 1, 93,504 hectares with high - 1, 28,962 ha, medium - 42,705 ha and low 21,837 ha. Rayagada’s agro-climatic zone is north eastern ghat having 9,67,911 population. Soil type is brown forest, lateritic, red alluvial, black and mixed red soil groups.

Title: Investment Analysis of Warehousing System in Telangana
Abstract :

Warehousing plays a crucial role in the agricultural supply chain by offering scientifically structured storage facilities that reduce post-harvest losses, maintain produce quality, and prevent distress sales. This study investigates the financial and economic viability of warehouse investments in Telangana using discounted cash flow techniques such as Net Present Value (NPV), Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR), and Internal Rate of Return (IRR). Telangana has experienced a surge in agricultural output, especially in paddy, red gram, and maize production, necessitating enhanced warehousing infrastructure. Data was collected from two districts Mahbubnagar and Jagtial chosen for their contrasting number of active warehouses. Four warehouses were selected for financial analysis: two small warehouses in Jagtial (30,000 MT each) and two large warehouses in Mahbubnagar (1,00,000 MT each). The findings revealed that all warehouse projects were financially viable, with IRRs exceeding or matching the benchmark interest rate of 12 per cent, positive NPVs, and BCRs greater than one. Specifically, the small warehouses had a BCR of 1.25, NPV of ` 0.60 crore, and IRR of 15 per cent, while the large warehouses demonstrated stronger feasibility with NPVs of ` 6.81 crore and ` 6.53 crore, IRRs of 17 per cent and 12 per cent, and BCRs of 1.59 and 1.49, respectively. These results underscore the importance of continued investment in warehousing to support agricultural growth and market stability in Telangana.

Title: Cost Economic and Benefit Cost Ratio of Developed Round Basin Maker cum Fertilizer Applicator for Orchard Crops
Abstract :

A multi-functional implement was developed to perform both round basin formation and fertilizer application in a single field operation. The machine was tested in various orchard crops, including mango, guava, and citrus, to evaluate its field performance. Economic evaluation was conducted out following standard cost estimation methods, focusing on labour savings to assess feasibility. The break-even point (BEP) of the implement was estimated to be ` 693 per hour and 6.295 hectares on a time and area basis, respectively. The payback period was calculated to be approximately 2.64 years, indicating a promising return on investment. The machine demonstrated a cost reduction of up to 54.75% when compared to the combined expenses incurred by traditional weeding and manual fertilizer application practices.

Title: Can Drip Irrigation Method Doubling the Farmers Income? Evidence of Banana Crop Cultivation from Tamil Nadu
Abstract :

India is one of the world’s highest producers in agricultural products, including food grains, fruits, vegetables and milk etc. Irrigation contributes the major role in the sustainable agricultural growth in India. The inadequate of future water storage in addition to the raising demand for consumption of water for various purposes, this situation has become urgent need to adopt new irrigation technology for avoid the water scarcity in the future. One such a method introducing in water management is drip method irrigation.

Numbers of studies are available related to use of farm level survey data all over the state have confirmed that the saving of water consumption of different horticultural crops cultivated under drip irrigated method is highly significant as contrast to conventional irrigated method. However, many studies are not discussed detail on fruit banana cultivation in farm survey data particularly in the Indian circumstances. As a result of previous study, a special effort made in this analysis to bridge this space using farm survey data collected from different villages in Sivagangai district of Tamil Nadu State.

Title: Determinants of Organic Fertilizer Purchase Decisions: Evidence from Bellari District of Karnataka
Abstract :

Producers are shifting towards sustainable agriculture has led to growing interest in organic fertilizers, yet the factors influencing their adoption among farmers remain underexplored. This study, conducted in 2024 in the Bellari district of Karnataka, aimed to identify the determinants affecting the purchase decisions and usage of organic fertilizers. A total of 180 farmers were randomly selected from various villages, and data were collected through personal interviews. The study examined usage patterns, perceptions, influencing factors, and challenges using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and regression models to assess social, economic, and technical dimensions. Results indicated that 92.30 per cent of respondents used organic fertilizers, with 64.44 per cent combining them with chemical inputs. Farmers recognized the benefits of organic fertilizers, particularly in improving soil health (58.33 % strongly agreed) and enhancing crop quality (86.11 % agreed or strongly agreed). Despite these positive perceptions, several constraints were identified, including high costs (82.78 %), perceived yield reduction (77.78 %), and uncertainty about effectiveness (72.23 %). Correlation analysis revealed a negative association between perception and usage, while knowledge showed a positive relationship with usage. However, regression analysis indicated that frequency of use significantly influenced adoption, whereas knowledge did not have a statistically significant effect due to practical barriers such as inconsistent supply, limited market acceptance, lack of credit support, and inadequate technical training.

Title: Economic Feasibility of Investment in Henna Cultivation in Pali District of Rajasthan
Abstract :

his study explored the economic feasibility of henna cultivation in Pali district of Rajasthan. Information was gathered from 60 experienced henna farmers in the region using structured interviews in the year 2022-23. The costs (establishment and maintenance) and returns associated with henna cultivation over its economic lifespan of 24 years were assessed. Various discounting measures namely Net Present Worth (NPW), Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR), and Payback Period (PBP) were employed to evaluate the feasibility of investing in henna cultivation in the study area. The initial establishment cost for henna was calculated to be ` 138308.63 per hectare in the first year and ` 52867.73 per hectare in the second year. The total maintenance costs from years 3 to 24 amounted to ` 1939006.47 per hectare. The overall cost of cultivation over the economic lifespan of henna was estimated at ` 2130182.83 per hectare, with gross returns of  ` 3161426.00 per hectare. This resulted in a net return of ` 1031244.00 per hectare over the 24-year period. The financial feasibility analysis indicated that the investment in henna cultivation could be recouped within 8 years. The positive Net Present Worth (` 177065.87/ha) suggested that henna cultivation is economically worthwhile. Furthermore, the calculated Benefit-Cost Ratio of 1.24 at a discount rate of 10% underscored the profitability of henna cultivation.

Title: Quantifying the Performance of Farmer Producers Organization: An Insight on Index Development Approach
Abstract :

This research employs a comprehensive methodology to develop a performance index for Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in the agricultural sector. The study identifies and prioritizes 8 key dimensions viz., governance, infrastructure, legal services, financial services, production services, capacity and skill building, marketing and technical services. The selection and weighting of these dimensions are determined through a ordinal rankings into weightage. The scoring pattern has been suggested for different sub-indicators, and that would normalized through the FPO water formula after obtaining the data from the stakeholders. The paper concludes with a detailed analysis of the weighted dimensions, offering insights into the performance of FPOs in agriculture.

Title: An Economic Analysis of Costs & Returns of Blackgram Cultivation in Bundi District of Rajasthan
Abstract :

Blackgram is a valued crop and provides nutritious food for an expanding world population and will become increasingly important with climate change. High content of lysine makes it as an excellent complement to other food grains in terms of balanced nutrition. In Rajasthan, blackgram crop has an area of 2.96 lakh ha with 1.49 lakh tonnes production and productivity of 505 kg/ha during 2023-24. A sample of 100 black gram growers was taken randomly from each size group in proportion to the total number of growers in each size group i.e. small, semi-medium, medium and large size group. Primary data were collected for agricultural year of kharif season 2023 and analyzed through CACP Cost concepts, various techniques and tools and Garrett’s technique for drawing relevant conclusions. The results revealed that, on an average, total cost of cultivation of blackgram was ` 28971.05 per hectare. It was highest i.e. ` 29646.25 per hectare on small farm and lowest i.e. ` 28343.84 per hectare on large farm size. Overall gross returns, net returns, farm business income and family labour income were ` 58421.25,  ` 29450.20, ` 42942.91 and ` 31833.74 per hectare. Cost of production per quintal was highest (` 4296.56) for small farm and lowest for large farm (` 3414.92) with an overall average of ` 3847.52 per quintal. On an average, return per rupees was ` 2.02.

Title: Economic Analysis and Market Dynamics of Jowar Cultivation in Adilabad District of Telangana
Abstract :

This study analyzes the cost of cultivation, profitability, and marketing efficiency of Jowar in Adilabad district, Telangana, during the Rabi season 2023-2024. A random sampling technique was used to select 100 respondents, including 80 farmers, 10 traders, 3 processors, 3 wholesalers, and 4 retailers. The total cost of cultivation of jowar was ` 55,607 per hectare, with operational costs (85.24%) being the major expense. Jowar cultivation proved profitable, yielding a net return of ` 15,870 per hectare and a return per rupee spent of 1.29. The study also examined marketing channels, revealing that direct sales to consumers (Channel-I) ensured the highest producer share (98.19%) and marketing efficiency (54.33%), whereas longer supply chains (Channels II-IV) significantly reduced farmers’ profits. The findings highlight the need for cost reduction and market reforms, including the introduction of Fair Remunerative Price (FRP), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), financial support, value addition, and improved market linkages. These strategies can enhance Jowar production, profitability, and sustainability, ensuring better income for farmers and improved market accessibility for consumers.