THE FACTORS INFLUENCING FARMERS DIVERSIFICATION IN TIRUPATTUR DISTRICT: A CASE STUDY

Author

Dr. K. Sivakumar , Mr. S. Alexzander, Mr. P. Sundharason


Abstract

 Crop diversification is an important strategy for improving farm income, reducing production and market risks, enhancing resource utilisation and promoting sustainable agricultural development. Farmers increasingly change their cropping patterns in response to changes in market prices, irrigation availability, labour supply, input costs, climatic conditions, technological development and access to institutional support. The present study examines the factors influencing farmers' crop diversification and the changes in cropping patterns among farmers in Tirupattur District, Tamil Nadu. The study is based on primary data collected from selected farming households using a structured interview schedule. The study considers socio-economic, farm-level, institutional and market-related factors, including age, education, family size, landholding size, irrigation facilities, farming experience, access to agricultural credit, labour availability, market distance, agricultural extension services, farm mechanisation, input costs, crop prices and expected profitability. The extent of crop diversification is measured using the Simpson Index of Diversification (SID), while changes in cropping patterns are examined by comparing farmers' earlier and present crop choices. Descriptive statistics are used to analyse the socio-economic and farm characteristics of the respondents, while correlation and regression analysis are employed to identify the factors associated with crop diversification. The study is expected to identify the major economic, institutional and farm-level factors responsible for changes in farmers' diversification decisions. The findings will provide useful insights for strengthening irrigation facilities, agricultural credit, market access, extension services, farm mechanisation and technological support, thereby encouraging sustainable and economically viable crop diversification in Tirupattur District.



Keywords

Diversification, farmers, irrigation, market Access, Agricultural income.



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References


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