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ThesisItem Open Access Dynamics of area, production and export of grapes in India(G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145 (Uttarakhand), 2009-06) Thorat, Vishal Shankar; Bhogal, T.S.Grape is one of the most important fruit crops of the world and contains many of the valuable ingredients necessary for life. It is also one of the important horticultural crops grown in India. Exports are must for economic growth of any country. The grape export from India was started in the year 1991 after economic liberalization. Total area under grape in India is 63700 ha. with production of 1667.7 thousand tonnes and export of about 85897.78 tonnes (5.15 per cent of total production) in the year 2006-07. Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamilnadu and Andhra Pradesh are major grape producing states. The total area under grape in the world is around 75 lakh ha. with a production of 66.27 million tonnes (2006-07). Major grape exporting countries are Chile, South Africa, Spain, Italy, France etc. The present study was undertaken primarily to analyze India‟s performance in production, productivity and export of grapes with different dynamics. Growth rates in relation to area, production, yield and export of grapes were measured by using exponential function. Direction of grape export was analyzed by calculating the share of Indian grapes in the import of major grape importing countries of the world vis a vis share of other grape exporting countries. Export competitiveness of grape for the country has been assessed by using Nominal Protection Coefficient (NPC). Garrett‟s ranking technique was used to study the problems faced by grape growers in production and marketing as well as that of by exporters in grape export. The results of the study showed that area, production and yield of grapes increased in all major producing states and India as a whole except in Andhra Pradesh. The export of grapes from India increased over the years and Netherlands and Bangladesh were the major growing markets for Indian grapes. Growth in export to UK, UAE and other countries also showed positive trend. Chile and South Africa were major exporters of grape to the world. Preference to Indian grapes in developed countries was low. The Nominal Protection Coefficient (NCP) for grape ranged from 0.269 to 0.539 indicating highly price competitiveness of Indian grapes in international market. The major problems faced by grape growers in production were inadequate supply of manures and fertilizers and high price/non-availability of plant protection chemicals. Problems faced in marketing of grapes were Unremunerative prices and price fluctuation for market. Problems faced by grape exporters were poor preference to Indian grapes in the world market and lack of demand from importing countries in current year due to recession. In the light of results obtained, there is need of improvement in production technique and thereby quality of grapes to boost our international trade.ThesisItem Open Access Economic analysis of vegetable production under protected cultivation (polyhouses) in Champawat district of Uttarakhand(G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145 (Uttarakhand), 2009-07) Joshi, Deepika; Chaurasia, S.P.R.The mal-nutrition in our country is a serious problem particularly among poor masses. In addition to cereals and pulses, vegetables are important source of meeting nutritional requirements. As against 300 grams per day per capita recommended amount of vegetable, the present availability is only 130 grams. This precarious scenario of per capita availability of vegetables warrants to increase its production in the country. The less availability of vegetables is also due to their non production during offseason. Offseason availability of vegetables could be met through arranging their production in polyhouse. In Champawat district, the production of vegetables in polyhouse was found to be beneficial to producers as well as to consumers by way of offseason vegetable production. The average size of cultivated land in the study area was very small i.e. only 1.502 acre and inadequate to provide reasonable standard of living. The average size of family was also large (above 7 members). Educational status was found to be quite good which helped the people in securing job outside. Capsicum was found to be most profitable crop generating a net income of Rs. 171414 per acre. Among all the crop rotations followed by farmers, capsicum – cabbage – tomato appeared most profitable crop rotation giving a net income of Rs. 371496 per acre. The establishment cost of polyhouse for 0.20 Nali land was 21950. The establishment of the polyhouse was found to be economically feasible and the BCR was greater than one under the situation of granting subsidy or without subsidy. The payback period was found to be around 2.5 years. The per acre returns (Rs. 384000) from vegetable cultivated under polyhouse was substantially higher compared to per acre returns (Rs. 18900) obtained from open field cultivation. Under existing situation, contribution of agriculture to total income of farmers earned during the year, was around 18 per cent only. The farmers were satisfied with the financial scheme of polyhouse executed by government in the study area. However, certain additional provisions like drip irrigation system, making availability of water tank and sprinkler has to be made in the scheme for secured irrigation. Presently, the vegetables produced under polyhouse were locally disposed off. However, in future, if area under polyhouse cultivation is increased, there will be need of developing transportation facilities and good market for making the crop remunerative.ThesisItem Open Access Cost of agricultural credit to small and marginal farmers in Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand(G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145 (Uttarakhand), 2009-08) Joshi, Bhawana; Singh, VirendraThe study was conducted in Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand. It was based on survey of 80 small and marginal farmers (60 borrowers and 20 non borrowers). The study aimed at examining socio-economic characteristics of small and marginal farmers, lending procedure of commercial bank, PACS and RRB, source-wise and purpose-wise flow of agricultural credit, cost of agricultural credit incurred by farmers in borrowing production and investment credit from different agencies, the extent of non-participation of farmers in formal agricultural credit and reasons thereof. The primary and secondary data was collected for the agricultural year 2007-08. Simple descriptive analysis was performed to accomplish various objectives. The average farm size was found to be 1.27 ha. Average family size was 9.21. 58.33 per cent farmer-borrowers were APL. Rice and wheat were the important cereal crops grown on 33.55% and 33.93 % of total cropped area respectively. The intensity of cropping was more than 200%. On average annual income of households was Rs.83160 at overall situation. Major part of which was contributed by cropping and business activities. The lending procedure for production and investment loan of the commercial bank, PACS and RRB was found to be almost same. KCC was the main route through which production credit could be taken from institutional agencies. Commercial bank and cooperatives emerged as the dominant sources of production credit for small and marginal farmers. At aggregate level per farm credit borrowed from different agencies was Rs.33141. Share of production and investment credit in the total credit was 79.57% and 20.43% respectively. Overall real cost of borrowing per Rs.100 of production loan was estimated to be Rs.11.35 and Rs.23.16 in case of production loan and investment loan respectively. It was lowest in commercial bank (Rs.9.51) and PACS (Rs.22.36) for production loan and investment loan respectively. Non-interest cost was lowest for PACS and commercial bank in case of production loan and investment loan respectively. Extent of non-participation in credit programme in the study area was found to be 48.51 per cent. Lack of awareness, risk, informal sources, untimeliness, complex procedure and inflexibility of loan were the main reasons attributing to farmers being out of fold of institutional credit programme. The results suggest that step should be taken to enhance the credit absorption capacity of the farmers. At the same time banks have to make their credit delivery system more accessible and popular to farmers at lesser cost. Regional Rural Banks are needed to be revamped. Programmes concerning the awareness about institutional credit along with insurance are needed to be stepped up.ThesisItem Open Access Socio-economic assessment of market value chain and post harvest loss of potato in Burdwan district of West Bengal(G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145 (Uttarakhand), 2007-07) Karar, Rajesh; Agnihotri, A.K.The study was conducted in Burdwan district of West Bengal by selecting fifty respondents, including potato growers, wholesalers, retailers, processors etc. to fulfill the objectives, viz, to find out the effect of human skill on net margin earn, to identify the market value chains prevail for potato marketing, to estimate the post harvest loss of potato in Burdwan district, to prioritize the constraints in value chain management and to examine the marketing efficiency of different market value chains. Different market value chains were identified through Rapid Market Appraisal Technique, post harvest loss of potato was estimated using simple statistical tools like average and percentage, whereas, in order to examine the effect of human skill on net margin earn, regression analysis technique (linear regression equation) was used, marketing efficiency of different value chains were calculated by using Shepherd formulae and for prioritizing the constraints Garrett Ranking Technique was used. Human skill has positive effect on growers’ net margin. Higher the skill higher the margin they earn. Potato was transacted through five different value chains in district Burdwan. In case of potato it was found that 35 per cent of potato was loss after harvest. This year the post harvest loss of potato was more because of high rainfall during harvesting season and occurrence of late blight, which is an epidemic disease for potato. Economic post harvest loss of potato was more or less same as physical post harvest loss but economic post harvest loss at field level was more compare to that of physical post harvest loss. The reason behind this is, at field level production is govern by many uncertain factors, like weather and disease outbreak. In case of marketing of potato it was found that, share of potato growers in consumers’ rupee was only 52-72 per cent. Producers’ share in consumers’ rupee was highest in channel V, where only retailer was involved between them but it was identified as less efficient value chain. In case of potato processing, it was found that, there has an ample opportunity for processors, regarding the market for processed potato products in future.ThesisItem Open Access Economic analysis of rice production in Bardhaman district of West Bengal(G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145 (Uttarakhand), 2007-07) Mosharaf Hossain, Sk.; Singh, A.K.ThesisItem Open Access An economic analysis of rice cultivation in Almora District of Uttarakhand(G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145 (Uttarakhand), 2007-06) Bisht, Manoj Singh; Singh, H.N.The study was conducted in Almora district of Uttarakhand to characterize rice cultivation practices in two distinct rice growing environments viz., terraces and valleys. The study was based on survey of 50 farmers, 25 each from terrace and valleys. The data related to year 2005-06. Simple descriptive statistical tools were used to accomplish different objective of the study. The average farm size was found to be 0.29 and 0.26 ha in terrace and valleys, respectively. Average family size was 6.16 for valleys and 5.6 for terraces. Rice accounted for 48 and 58 per cent to total cropped area in kharif in terraces and valleys, respectively. The situation of female adults reveals that 17.3 per cent were illiterate and very few were graduate and above (0.3%). Education of male adults and children was at satisfactory level. Majority of farmers belonged to marginal category which was 92 and 96 per cent to total farmers in terrace and valleys, respectively. Rice, Wheat, Mandua and Barley were the first four principal crops on terraces as well as on valleys. On overall average annual income of households was Rs. 37854. The major proportion of income was contributed by shops and government jobs which was 26 percent from each sources to total income. Crop production formed 3 and 7 percent income to total in terrace and valleys, respectively. Total labour use in rice cultivation was 141 in valleys and 82 in terraces. Per hectare cost of cultivation of rice was Rs. 13609 in the valleys which is about 44 percent more than that of terrace (Rs. 8710). In Valleys gross returns was about three times (Rs. 17864) higher than to terraces (Rs. 6149). The net returns were negative Rs.2561 per hectare in terraces where as in valleys, it was Rs. 4255. The input use pattern was almost same in both the farms. Cost of cultivation of rice on marginal and small farms were Rs. 11160 and Rs. 10422 per hectare, respectively. Gross returns from rice cultivation on marginal and small farms were Rs. 13850 and Rs. 12040 per hectare. Whereas net returns of corresponding farm size were Rs. 2690 and Rs.1618 per hectare. In terraces farmers planted only traditional varieties (TVs) while in valleys planting of modern varieties (MVs) was very common. To understand the MVs adoption behavior of farmers a descriptive analysis were applied to ascertain the influence of different factors which determine MVs adoption on sample farms. After in-depth analysis of independent variables (biophysical and socio-economic) and their potential influence on adoption of MVs, it could be concluded that the biophysical factors have greater influence on adoption of modern rice varieties. In the response of socio-economic factors no matter remains related to the adoption. The result from the study revealed that land type along with associated factor of irrigation access proved to be the crucial factor in the decision to adopt MVs, most of which are dependent on good moisture regime. Efforts should be directed to make the most of the TVs adoption by increasing the yield potential of TVs through research. The findings also implied that there should be need to redesign research program that could be able to deliver suitable interventions according to farmers preferences and biophysical conditions of target domain which was characterized as low input environment.ThesisItem Open Access Risk attitude and risk management strategies- an analysis of dairy farmers in Chitwan district of Nepal(G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145 (Uttarakhand), 2007-06) Paudel, Bikash; Tewari, S.K.The study was carried out in the Chitwan district of Nepal to identify the sources of risk perceived to be relevant by the dairy farmers, examine risk attitude of dairy farmers, identify the factors that affects risk attitude of dairy farmers and evaluate the relative importance of different risk management strategies as perceived by the dairy farmers. Altogether 50 dairy farmers were interviewed to collect primary data for the study. The sources of risk which were statistically found relevant were price of milk, animal diseases, change in consumers’ preference for milk and milk products, milk yield variability, unavailability of green fodder in all seasons, poor conception rate, anoestrous, lack of extension support, distant location of veterinary hospitals, milk holidays, quality of milk and political strikes. The most important source of risk perceived was animal disease. Farmers risk attitude was measured using attitudinal scale approach. The analysis established a refined 20-item scale that can be applied by researchers to measure the risk attitude of dairy farmers in similar locations. The refined scale has high degree of reliability as farmers’ response to the items of the scale revealed a communal variation of 80 per cent. The study further revealed slight degree of risk aversion among farmers toward risk management tools like buying livestock insurance, diversification, backup labor management, limited specialization, entering contracts with inputs suppliers, vaccinating animals, taking trainings related to dairy, maintaining proper housing, producing highest possible quality, involving other members of the family in dairy, maintaining proper feeding to animals in critical stages, buying feeds only from co-operatives, selling milk only in co-operative, regular deworming, buying heifers of known parentage and arranging special use of milk during milk holidays. Certain degree of risk taking attitude was found toward risk management tools like buying life insurance, keeping local breeds, consulting veterinarian before taking major decisions, proper documentation and treatment of dry fodder. Regression analysis showed size of holdings and share of own investment were significantly and positively related to risk taking attitude of the farmers and share of farm income in family income and share of purchased feed were significantly and negatively related to risk taking attitude of the farmers. The eight factors included in regression analysis together explained 60 per cent of variation in risk attitude of dairy farmers. Risk management strategies viz. buying livestock insurance, price contract for inputs and outputs, diversification, carrying adequate cash reserve for emergency, vaccinating animals and regular visit of veterinarian were perceived relevant by the farmers. Among them, applying strict hygienic rules was the most important strategy as perceived by the farmers followed by diversification. Strategies viz. buying personal insurance, off-farm income and proper care in pasture were perceived irrelevant by the farmers.ThesisItem Open Access Socio-economic impact and financial feasibility of tractorization in Chitwan district of Nepal(G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145 (Uttarakhand), 2006-06) Dhakal, Shiva Chandra; Anil KumarThe study was conducted in Chitwan district of Nepal to examine the socio-economic impact and financial feasibility of tractors which are increasingly becoming popular in the area for agricultural and non-agricultural purposes. The study was based on a survey of 50 farmers, 30 from tractor farms and 20 from bullock farms. The data related to the year 2004-05. Simple descriptive statistical tools including regression analysis technique and discounted measures of investment appraisal were used to accomplish different objectives of the study. The study revealed that, percentage of gross cropped area covered by paddy, maize and wheat was slightly higher (72.7%) on tractor farms as compared to bullock farms (69.0%). The average cropping intensity of tractor farms was found to be 170.34 per cent, while it was 160.52 per cent for bullock farms. Average level of use of HYVs and number of irrigation were higher in tractor farms by 39.4 and 21.9 per cent, respectively as compared to bullock farms. Average crop diversification index for tractor farms (0.79) was slightly lower than bullock farms (0.81) indicating that the diversification in terms of crops was comparatively more on bullock farms than on tractor farms. Dairy and goat rearing were more popular on bullock farms (70 and 80%, respectively) than on tractor farms. The results indicated that tractor farms preferred non-conventional on-farm activities like poultry, beekeeping, nursery etc.; and services, business, sawmill operation for non-farm diversification. Gross farm revenue, gross farms family income, returns to family labour and capital, returns to family owned capital, returns to management, net crop income per hectare of cropped land/net cultivated land were higher on tractor farms by about 527, 164, 182, 310, 76, 31 and 41 per cent, respectively as compared to bullock farms. Average annual hired human labour employed, total human labour employed and off-farm employment were higher on tractor farms by about 355, 19 and 53 per cent, respectively than on bullock farms. The study revealed that human labour, cash expenses and tractor labour were efficiently used on tractor farms. Cash expense was inefficiently utilized on bullock farms, at the level less than required. Average tractors (35 HP) were utilized for about 927 hours, 35 per cent more hours than for required break-even level. Benefit-cost ratio, net benefit-investment ratio, net present worth and internal rate of return were 1.07, 1.68, Rs. 1,73,662 and 34 per cent, respectively before financing as against 1.17, 1.70, Rs. 4,63,982 and 48 per cent, respectively after financing which passed the test for financial feasibility regarding investment in tractor for an average farm size of 1.45 ha. For increasing cropping intensity and area under major cereals necessary efforts should be made regarding irrigation facility, extension services and distribution of HYVs. In order to bridge gap between tractor and bullock farms regarding income and employment concerned agencies should give emphasis on education, infrastructure development, simplifying loan transaction procedure and cost and, improved packages of technology on livestock husbandry. For magnifying positive impact of tractorization it is desirable to develop and promote system of tractor hiring and from cooperative societies, lending tractor loan on joint collateral system and, rental market for tractor.ThesisItem Open Access Socio-economic dimension and economic analysis of production and value addition process in bamboo trade in Kerala(G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145 (Uttarakhand), 2006-05) Manas, D.; Singh, S.P.The study conducted in Palghat District of Kerala was based on data collected from 30 growers for the agricultural year 2005-2006. The aim was to get an insight into the various aspects of production and value addition process in bamboo, weaknesses and threats therein. Socio-economic study on bamboo growers revealed that majority of households is small holders undertaking mixed cropping following traditional cultivation methods. Majority of them belong to socially and economically backward classes. The study area was characterized by heterogeneous community and purely agrarian economy. Total availability of bamboo both from homestead and forest account for 2.939 million ton. Total cash out flow in the establishment year has been worked out to be Rs. 168500 /ha. Net cash flow became positive from the 5th year onwards and ranged betweenRs.11520 to Rs. 213940 per hectare. The study shows that it is profitable to invest in bamboo cultivation, which gives payback period of 7.7 years, BCR 1.83 and IRR 18.96%. In case of marketing of bamboo poles, 58 % growers were found to dispose off their produce through commission agents. The price received by the grower has been 36% of the wholesale price. The net value addition occurred per big baskets, winnower, mats, and stool has been Rs. 8,6,50 and 65 respectively. Technology transfer, exploitation by intermediaries, lack of knowledge about the recommended practices, lack of finance, fragmented and scattered operational holding have been found to be major constraints faced by bamboo growers. The major constraints being faced by bamboo weaving families are unavailability of raw material, unorganized marketing system, high cost of raw material, lack of remuneration and low social acceptability. Adoption of scientific harvesting and pruning techniques, enhancement of agricultural extension activities, participatory approach in policy making and formulation involving all the stake holders, provision of incentives like credit, price support, buy back option, insurance, etc., triangulation of information flow between researchers and farmers and among farmers themselves are some of the suggested policy measures for the upliftment of bamboo sector.