Productivity, profitability and resource use efficiency of paddy cultivation in Tribal Dominated districts of Assam

Abstract

The study evaluates resource-use efficiency in paddy production across four tribal-dominated districts of Assam. Data from 400 paddy growers for the 2020-21 crop season were analyzed using farm budgeting and production function techniques, incorporating economic and resource use efficiency tests. A comparison of profitability between beneficiary and non-beneficiary tribal farmers showed that beneficiaries cultivating HYV Ranjit paddy achieved a Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) of 1.33, while non-beneficiaries growing local varieties had a BCR of 0.93. Productivity of paddy by beneficiary tribal farmers was higher than the non-beneficiary farmers with an incremental grain and straw yield of 15.97 q/ ha and 10.95 q/ha, respectively. However, resource utilization was inefficient in both beneficiary and non-beneficiary tribal farmers, indicating the need for better resource allocation. Optimizing input use can enhance revenue and improve efficiency in paddy cultivation. The findings highlight the importance of targeted interventions to maximize productivity and profitability in tribal farming communities.