Socio-economic profile of rural youth in chrysanthemum cultivation

Abstract

Chrysanthemum cultivation has emerged as a viable livelihood option for rural youth in Tamil Nadu, particularly in Salem district, due to its short cropping cycle, income-generating potential, and compatibility with small landholdings. This study investigates the socio-economic profile of 120 rural youth engaged in chrysanthemum farming across three major blocks—Omalur, Kadayampatti, and Mecheri. An ex post facto research design and purposive sampling method were employed to collect data through structured interviews. Results reveal that a majority (90.83%) of the youth fall within the 21-30 age group, with 40.83% holding graduate degrees and 100% being literate. The majority are involved in farming either solely or in combination with studies, business, or other employment. Family annual income for 80.83% of respondents exceeds ?1 lakh, indicating the crop's economic potential. Most respondents are marginal or small landholders, and 45% report moderate farming experience (4-8 years). Social participation, mass media exposure, and extension agency contact are predominantly at medium levels, indicating moderate integration with institutional and informational networks. Furthermore, the youth display medium levels of economic motivation, scientific orientation, and risk-taking ability, reflecting an openness to innovation and sustainable engagement in agriculture. The study concludes that chrysanthemum cultivation offers promising employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for rural youth and recommends targeted policy support, training, and market access to further enhance youth participation in floriculture.