Role of technological change in enhancing the income of rainfed farmers: A study of Bajra crop in western Maharashtra

Abstract

In the present study an attempt has been made to distinguish the effects of technological change and inputs use efficiencies in bajra rainfed crop from Western Maharashtra during the two sub periods of 1996-2005 and 2006-2015. The total factor productivity (TFP) approach was followed in analyses of data. Analyses had indicated that there were continuous rise in the input, output and TFP indices during both the periods and in all divisions of Western Maharashtra. Therefore, the growth rates of these three indicators were worked out. Based on the finding, it is concluded that the modern inputs such as improved varieties (Shanti, Saburi, etc.), integrated nutrient management (organic manure +chemical fertilizer + biofetilizer), etc. were major contributors to TFP growth in Western Maharashtra.