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Socio-Economic Impact of Poultry Farming in India: A Case Study of Rural Youth Farmers under Attracting and Retaining Youth in Agriculture Project (ARYA)
No full textThe future of India's agricultural advancement lies on its rural youth. Through its Agricultural Extension division, ICAR has implemented the Attracting and Retaining Youth in Agriculture (ARYA) initiative through several recognized KVKs around the nation in an effort to sustain youth interest in agriculture and their sustainable livelihoods. This program has been implemented in five KVKs in Odisha. The current study was conducted in the Sambalpur District KVK in 2023–2024, where the ARYA project has been working on three enterprises: scientific horticulture nursery management, backyard poultry rearing, and mushroom production, with a horizontal spread of 400 rural youths. Following ARYA's implementation, backyard poultry rearing produced the highest average production and net income out of the three businesses supported by the program. However, the firm that produced mushrooms had a higher benefit-cost ratio. The social profile of young people in rural areas was positively and significantly correlated with a number of economic performance metrics. A number of institutions came together to provide technical assistance to young people in rural areas as a result of the program's execution. Under, ARYA project poultry farming is one of the primary features chosen for the present study. With this perspective, the present study has been carried out to know the attitude of beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries of ARYA project towards chicken farming. A scale including 24 statements was created using the Likert approach to gauge attitude. Out all the technologies used in chicken farming, 12 positive and 12 negative comments were chosen and structured appropriately. The "t" values from the item analysis were used to pretest and choose the assertions. Researchers and policymakers involved in poultry farming may find the attitude scale helpful
Economic Analysis of Milk Production in Raghuraj Nagar Tashil of Satna Districts Madhya Pradesh
No full textThis study evaluates the economic aspects of milk production to support improved planning and rural development policies. It focuses on profitability, challenges, and opportunities in the dairy sector. A stratified random sampling method was used to ensure proportional representation, involving 75 milk producers—50 farmers from 10 villages in Raghuraj Nagar Tehsil, Satna district, and 25 dairy producers from the broader region—between January 2020 and June 2021. The study analyzes cost and return data across farmer milk producers, and dairy milk producers categorized into First, Second, and Average groups. Total milk production of all milk producers per lactation was 3,651,600 liters (First group), 722,400 liters (Second groups), and 543,840 liters (Average groups). While individual milk producers in First group, second groups and Average groups produced 7,303.20, 28,903.20, and 16,677.60 liters, respectively. The cost per milching animal per lactation was Rs. 56,180.10 (First groups), Rs. 37,461.06 (Second groups), and Rs. 47,018.57 (Average groups). While production cost per producer First group, Second groups and Average groups was Rs. 191,349.06, Rs. 397,466.83, and Rs. 294,396.94 respectively. The value of milk produced per milching animals was Rs. 64,440.00 (First group), Rs. 109,957.75 (Second group), and Rs. 81,384.55 (Average groups). While value of milk produced per milk producer First group, Second groups and Average groups were Rs. 219,096.00, Rs. 1,011,612.00, and Rs. 542,022.00 respectively. The value of other than milk produced per milching animals was Rs. 18750.00, (First group). Rs 6250.00 (Second group), and Rs. 16000.00 (Average groups) While value of other than milk produced per milk producer First group, Second groups and Average groups were Rs. 63750.00, Rs. 62000.00 and Rs. 59335.00 Respectively. Gross returns per milching animal were Rs. 83,190.00 (First groups), Rs. 116,207.75 (Second groups), and Rs. 97,384.55 (Average groups). While gross return per produced First group, second groups and Average groups were Rs. 282846.00, Rs. 1073612.00 and Rs. 601357.00 respectively. Net returns of per milching animal were Rs. 27,009.90(First groups), Rs. 78,746.69 (Second groups), and Rs. 46,626.27(Average groups). While net return per producer, First group, second groups and Average groups were Rs. 91496.94, Rs. 676145.17 and Rs. 306960.06 respectively. The per liter milk production cost per milching animal was Rs. 17.42(First group), Rs. 9.93 (Second groups), and Rs. 13.37(Average groups). While per liter milk production cost per producer First group, second groups and Average groups were Rs. 17.47, Rs. 11.60 and Rs. 14.09 respectively. The benefit-cost ratio (BCR) per milching animal was 1.48:1(First group), 3.10:1(Second groups), and 1.92:1(Average groups). While the benefit-cost ratio (BCR) per milk producer First group, second groups and Average groups were 1.48:1, 2.70:1 and 2.04:1 respectively. Indicating highest profitability in the Second groups
Impediments Faced by Farmers Apropos ICT-based Agro-met Advisory Services
No full textInformation related to weather becomes very crucial to farmer attributed to its highly variable nature. ICT based Agro-met advisory services hold the capacity to reduce the vulnerability of farmers to extreme weather and climatic fluctuations by providing need based timely information to farmers. Although there exist a number of ICT based initiatives to provide the farmers with needed information, several constraints pose threat in bridging this information gap. This study was conducted during the year 2021 in Darrang District of Assam to study the impediments faced by farmers in effective use of agro-met advisory services provided by various stakeholders. Data to study constraints were collected from 100 beneficiaries of agro-met advisory services using semi-structured schedule. To rank the constraints indicated by the respondents, Garret ranking technique was used. Result of the study reveals that inability to update ICT expertise regularly, lack of updated information and lack of skills to use the ICT were some of the major constraints as indicated by the beneficiary farmers. The study concluded there is a need to provide training to enhance skills in using ICT tools. Location specific updated information should be made accessible to farmers via various ICT based platforms
Understanding Consumer Preferences and Market Constraints in Urban Fish Markets of Hyderabad, India
No full textAims: To analyze consumer behaviour in urban fish markets of Hyderabad by assessing purchasing patterns, species preferences, consumption attributes, and market-level constraints, and to suggest possible improvements in fish marketing infrastructure.
Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.
Place and Duration of Study: Ram Nagar and Begum Bazaar fish markets, Hyderabad, Telangana.
Methodology: A total of 120 fish consumers were selected using purposive sampling from the two major fish markets. Data were collected through a structured interview schedule. The questionnaire included sections on socio-economic profile, frequency and quantity of fish purchase, consumer preferences, key consumption attributes, and perceived market constraints. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Rank-Based Quotient (RBQ) method to rank species preferences, attributes, and constraints.
Results: The majority of respondents were male (86.87%) and aged between 28-48 years. Most consumers purchased fish once a week, typically in quantities of 2-4 kg. Freshwater fish was overwhelmingly preferred, with Rohu, Catla, and Murrels ranked highest. Taste and health benefits were identified as the most influential factors in consumption decisions. The most commonly reported constraints included poor hygiene, limited vehicle parking, and market congestion.
Conclusion: The study highlights the need for targeted infrastructure improvements in urban fish markets. Enhancing hygiene, managing traffic flow, and providing adequate parking facilities could significantly improve the consumer experience and encourage more regular fish consumption in urban areas
Assessing the Dynamics and Scope of Farm Mechanization in Karnataka, India
No full textAgriculture plays an important and significant role in the development of a country. The Indian economy has undergone a tremendous change from agriculture dominance to non-agriculture dominance, as it is reflected in the decline in the share of agriculture in total income from 55 per cent in 1950-51 to 18.30 per cent in 2022-23. Farm mechanization holds substantial scope and importance in an agricultural landscape. It involves the integration of modern machinery and technology into various farming processes, ranging from initial soil preparation to the final harvest. In this regard, the study aimed to conduct research on the dynamics of nature and extent of farm mechanization across zones and crop-wise over the years and to understand the extent of farm mechanization in different operations of various crops.
This study was based on the secondary data obtained from the Comprehensive Scheme for studying the Cost of Cultivation of Principal Crops of Karnataka. Data from 2011-12 to 2020-21 for 18 major crops were analysed using descriptive statistics, CAGR, and mechanization index. Here, data analysis was done using analytical tools such as Descriptive statistics, Mechanization Index (MI) and Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) analysis were used. The results revealed that the North East Transition Zone (6.73%) and Hill Zone (6.03%) have positive growth in farm mechanization. In 2020-21, North Eastern Dry Zone (41.76%) and Northern Dry Zone (36.65%) and Southern Transition Zone (28.80%) showed high mechanization, while Coastal Zone (16.18%), North Transition Zone (17.77%) and Southern Dry Zone (23.19%) have low mechanization. Overall, mechanization was 27 per cent in Karnataka, with a CAGR of 2 per cent. In paddy, red gram and green gram, the highest growth in mechanization was observed. The intercrop comparison revealed that paddy (41.81%) and green gram (35.69%) cultivation was more mechanized, while chilli (14.97%) was low mechanized. The share of machine labour cost was highest in paddy (18.67%). Operations such as preparatory tillage (49%), irrigation (41%) and harvesting/picking (41%) are more mechanized. Inter-zonal and inter-crop disparity in the adoption of farm mechanization is reported in this study. This can be overcome by improving the availability of farm power and farm machinery and equipment through expanding new custom hiring centres and developing suitable and affordable farm machinery and equipment engineered to specific crop and regional characteristics. Hence, enhancing farm machinery availability and encouraging private investments in rental services is crucial for expanding mechanization in the Karnataka state
Influence of FPO-Led Interventions on Knowledge Level of Tribal Millet Growers in Central India
No full textIndian agriculture, known for its diversity and resilience, continues to be a major source of livelihood for a large section of the rural population, particularly small and marginal farmers. The study was undertaken in Tamia block of Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh, to assess the impact of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) on the knowledge of tribal millet growers cultivating Kodo and Kutki. A total of 110 respondents, comprising 55 FPO members and 55 non-members, were selected through random sampling. Data were collected through a structured interview schedule and analyzed using frequency, percentage, Z-test, correlation and regression analysis. Findings indicated that most FPO members possessed medium to high levels of knowledge regarding millet production technology, whereas non-members were concentrated in the low to medium categories. The Z-test with a calculated Z-value of 11.75, which is greater than the critical value of 1.96 (at 1% level of significance) confirmed a statistically significant difference in mean knowledge scores between members and non-members, clearly reflecting the positive contribution of FPO membership. Correlation analysis showed positive and significant associations of knowledge with education, scientific orientation, mass media exposure and training exposure. Multiple R value of 0.755 reflects a strong positive and significant relationship with the knowledge level of FPO member. Regression results further revealed that education and training exposure were the most influential predictors of knowledge gain among farmers. Multiple R value of 0.755 reflects a strong positive and significant relationship with the knowledge level of FPO member. The study underscores the importance of FPOs as instruments for knowledge transfer, capacity building, and sustainable millet promotion in tribal areas
Analysis of the Level of Preference of Soybean Producers with Agribusiness Cluster (ABC) Services in Benin
No full textBackground: Contract farming provides many farmers with access to high-value crop markets, mitigating the risk of price fluctuations. However, a common perception is that the legal framework for contract farming is weak, often leading to the manipulation of farmers. Households involved in contract farming express dissatisfaction with the system's performance, often feeling disillusioned
Aims: The present study analyzes producers' preferences for the services offered by Agribusiness Clusters.
Study Design: A structured questionnaire was administered to 360 soybean producers using the KoboCollect application. The questionnaire was designed using the Best-Worst Scaling (BWS) method in R software.
Methodology: A Mixed Multinomial Logit model was used to analyze the quantitative field data, also employing BWS modeling. A simple random sampling was used to identify the smallholders for this research.
Results: The results indicated that credit, machinery, technical support, training, and seeds are the services most preferred by producers, while the provision of inputs was less favored. The analyses also revealed that technical training held the largest market share of services with 9.61%, followed by agricultural machinery 9.37%, technical support 9.25%, and agricultural credit 8.78%. Finally, a random effect was observed among producers regarding certain service options, such as initial training and agricultural credit. These findings could inform the implementation and scaling up of Agribusiness Clusters by prioritizing service options like technical support, training, and facilitating access to agricultural credit.
Conclusion: Policymakers should also consider de-emphasizing agricultural inputs, specifically chemical fertilizers and plant protection products. The ultimate recommendation is for policymakers to better structure the market for producers within agribusiness clusters (ABC)
Extent of the Constraints Faced by the Smallholder Farmer in Thrissur District, Kerala
No full textAims: The present study aims to systematically identify, prioritize, and analyze the major constraints faced by smallholder farmers in Thrissur District, Kerala. It seeks to assess the relative importance of production, economic, technological, environmental, and institutional barriers that limit the efficiency and sustainability of homestead farming.
Study Design: A descriptive survey research design was adopted to assess and rank the key constraints perceived by homestead farmers using Garrett’s Ranking Technique.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Thrissur District, Kerala, covering three Agro-Ecological Units—Chavakkad block (AEU 2), Puzhakkal block (AEU 6), and Ollukkara block (AEU 10). The selected panchayaths were Vadakkekad, Kaiparambu, and Pananchery, and the survey was carried out during the year 2024.
Methodology: The study was conducted in Thrissur District, Kerala 10°55′N latitude and 76°22′E longitude. A total of 120 homestead farmers were selected through a random sampling technique, ensuring proportional representation from the three panchayaths. The sample size was determined considering population heterogeneity and resource constraints, following the standard social science sampling framework. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview schedule and direct observation. Data were coded and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2021 and SPSS version 25.0, applying descriptive statistics and Garrett’s Ranking Technique to prioritize constraints. Eight categories of constraints—financial, market, land, labour, knowledge and adoption, technological and infrastructural, environmental, and institutional access—were analyzed using Garrett’s Ranking Technique by converting rank orders into percent positions and mean scores.
Results: Land constraints emerged as the most critical (mean score 65.94), reflecting the challenges of fragmented and limited landholdings. Lack of family interest ranked second (63.94), indicating reduced youth participation in farming. Environmental problems such as pest incidence, erratic rainfall, and declining soil fertility ranked third (61.10). Financial limitations (36.50) and inadequate technology or infrastructure (34.31) were moderately severe, while gaps in knowledge and adoption (33.87), weak institutional access (32.47), and market constraints (31.63) were comparatively less significant. The findings suggest that production-related challenges outweigh marketing barriers in determining the sustainability of homestead farming.
Conclusion: The study concludes that homestead farming in Thrissur District is primarily constrained by land scarcity, declining family participation, and environmental stresses. Enhancing land-use efficiency, promoting youth involvement, and improving access to technology and institutional support are critical to strengthening the economic and ecological sustainability of homestead farming
Exploring Cross-cultural Marketing Strategies of Fuliang Tea in E–commerce
No full textAims: This study explores how Chinese regional tea enterprises, particularly Fuliang tea producers, develop and implement cross-cultural marketing strategies in the era of global e-commerce. It focuses on how cultural adaptation, digital innovation, and institutional support enhance international competitiveness.
Study Design: A qualitative, exploratory multiple-case study design was adopted.
Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted in Fuliang County, Jiangxi Province, China, between April and August 2025.
Methodology: Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 participants, including tea enterprise managers, e-commerce staff, government officials, industry association representatives, and international consumers-each lasting approximately 60-90 minutes. Three representative tea enterprises were examined in depth. Data were analyzed using six-step thematic analysis, employing both inductive and deductive coding, guided by Hofstede’s cultural dimensions and Aaker’s brand personality frameworks.
Results: Four main themes emerged: (1) cultural framing and narrative translation; (2) product and packaging adaptation; (3) digital channel diversification and live-streaming; and (4) institutional trust-building through certification and service infrastructure. These findings illustrate how cultural communication, digital engagement, and institutional mechanisms collectively strengthen global brand legitimacy.
Conclusion: The study contributes to cross-cultural marketing theory by integrating cultural and digital perspectives within agri-food e-commerce. It offers actionable insights for policymakers, industry associations, and SMEs on leveraging storytelling, certification systems, and digital tools to promote the sustainable internationalization of regional brands
Analysis of Mineral Nitrogen Fertiliser Use in Germany Between 2017 and 2022 – Implications for Policy Design
No full textMineral fertilisers use and related agricultural nitrogen (N) emissions substantially affect the climate impact of agricultural production. However, detailed information on German mineral N fertiliser (MF) consumption patterns is rare, making it challenging to design effective climate policies. This study quantifies the level of MF use on sectoral and farm type level, showing its development over time in order to identify effects of fertiliser regulations, fluctuations in prices or climate trends. We use the German Farm Accountancy Data Network with around 25,000 observations of farm level MF use between the years 2017 and 2022 and analyse seven farm types according to European Union farm typology. The results show a decrease of 24% in sectoral MF use from 101 kg N/ha in 2017 to around 77 kg N/ha in 2022 with the highest decrease on other cattle farms (-42%)