Technological interventions and livelihood security of small holders in maize based farming system of Kashmir Valley

Abstract

Considering the importance of maize cultivation in the agricultural economy of the state, an attempt was made to analyze the impact of improved maize varieties on farm household income and livelihood security of maize growers in Kashmir Valley. The results revealed that although the adoption of improved varieties increase cost of maize cultivation but these varieties improved yield levels that resulted in the significant decline in its cost of production. It was observed that the adopter farms have relatively better endowments of physical, economic, social, human and natural capital and their livelihood was more secure compared to non-adopters. The regression estimates ascertained significant role of different capital endowments and technology adoption in livelihood security of maize growers. A number of policy options emerge out of the findings of this study.