Socio-economic status of finger millet growers in Southern Odisha

Abstract

The socio-economic standing of finger millet growers in Southern Odisha, an agricultural region where finger millet (Eleusine coracana) is an essential staple crop, is investigated in this study. The study is to examine the finger millet farmers’ access to agricultural resources, income levels, educational attainment and demographic traits. With the use of a mixed methods approach, 150 faming households from two districts in Southern Odisha participated in structured interviews and surveys to gather primary data. According to the research, most finger millet growers fall into the small-scale and semi-medium farming categories, having little access to financial options and contemporary agricultural technologies. Although finger millet grows a substantial amount of revenue for households, farmers confront a number of difficulties, including unstable markets, poor infrastructure and unpredictable weather. The research emphasizes the necessity of focussed policy initiatives to boost market access, increase agricultural output and help in the development of these rural communities’ infrastructure and educational systems. In Southern Odisha, it is possible to support sustainable farming practices and improve the livelihoods of finger millet growers by addressing these socioeconomic barriers.