A study on determinants of land leasing in Mysore district, Karnataka state, India

Abstract

The present study examines the determinants of land leasing in Mysore District, Karnataka, India. With agriculture being a key pillar of the Indian economy, the study explores the innovative practice of leasing land, where landowners lease their agricultural land to individuals or entities, thereby enabling efficient land utilization and stable income streams. The study collected primary data from 120 farmers engaged in allied enterprises, representing both pure tenants and landowners in the Mysore District of Karnataka, using a purposive stratified random sampling technique. Multiple linear regression analysis reveals that age, education level, farming experience, and farm size significantly impact net farm income. Additionally, transaction costs, tenure security, distance from home, and the size of the rented land influence farmers' participation in the land lease market. The research emphasizes the importance of well-structured policies to support the leasing system, including reasonable land rents, written agreements, and dispute resolution mechanisms. The findings suggest that promoting the leasing-in-land practice with government support and access to microcredit can enhance agricultural productivity and contribute to inclusive economic growth, job creation, and reduced food insecurity. Overall, this study provides valuable insights for policymakers to develop effective strategies for sustainable land management and equitable development in Mysore District, Karnataka.