Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a commercially grown spice that plays a significant role in rural livelihoods, providing opportunities for revenue diversification and value-added processing. The present study utilised secondary time-series data to identify growth trends in area, production, and productivity of garlic in India and Himachal Pradesh. A decomposition analysis revealed that the interaction between area and productivity contributed the most towards the change in production in India. In contrast, the area effect was highest in Himachal Pradesh. Aseasonality analysis of garlic prices and arrivals in Solan, Kullu, andLudhiana markets was also conducted, revealing that November, December, and January had the highest seasonal indices for prices, while April, May, and June had the highest seasonal indices for arrivals. India is the second-largest garlic producer globally after China; however, its productivity is comparatively low. Enhancing productivity, therefore, requires improved modern agricultural practices and adequate post-harvest infrastructure.
This study constructs annual estimates of a comprehensive index of Financial Inclusion (IFI) for the five BRICS countries over the period 2005-2022. Supply-and demand-related indicators for all formal financial institutions are combined using a two-stage Principal Component Analysis (PCA) technique, utilising information from all principal components. In the first stage, three sub-indices representing the dimensions of access, barriers, and usage were computed; in the second stage, they were aggregated to derive the IFI for each country-year observation. The statistical adequacy of PCA was evaluated using the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) test and the Bartlett's Sphericity Test (BTS). The PCA-based IFI was validated by evaluating its correlation with the IFI computed using the normalised inverse Euclidean distance technique. The rankings of BRICS countries varied across the three sub-indices. Russia led in the access dimension; India had the lowest distance barriers, and China led in the usage dimension. In the overall composite index, China emerged as the top performer, followed by Russia, India, and Brazil, while South Africa ranked lowest.
This study examined the short-and long-run dynamics of climate and non-climate factors on food production in India from 1990-91 to 2022-23. Unit root tests confirmed a mixed order of integration, with all variables being I(0) or I(1). The absence of I(2) variables validated the use of the Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model, which was employed to evaluate the influences of climate and non-climate factors on food production in India. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag model results revealed that the estimated coefficients for carbon dioxide emissions and rainfall of the previous year in the short-run analysis, as well as carbon dioxide emissions and rainfall in the long-run analysis, had a statistically significant positive effect on food production at the 1 per cent significance level. Additionally, the results of both the short-and long-run analyses showed that fertilizer consumption had a positive and statistically significant effect on food production. Moreover, the error-correction term indicated a speed of adjustment from short-run disequilibrium to long-run equilibrium of 18 per cent per annum. The findings of the study were expected to be helpful to agronomists and policymakers in developing appropriate strategies for the Indian agricultural sector.
This study examined infrastructure facilities in the regulated markets of Punjab and compared their status using an infrastructure development index. The results revealed that large markets had better infrastructure facilities. The Amritsar market was the best equipped, with the highest combined index score (0.34) and ranked highest in the trade and support infrastructure indices. Additionally, markets in Zone-II of Punjab were found to have better infrastructure facilities, followed by those in Zone-III and Zone-I. Positive and statistically significant correlation coefficients between the number of regulated markets and the procurement of both paddy (0.78) and wheat (0.76) indicated that an increase in the number of regulated markets was associated with greater procurement of these crops. The study suggested that balanced development of market infrastructure, expansion of regulated markets, and targeted investment in weaker regions are necessary to improve marketing efficiency and to strengthen the procurement system in Punjab.
This study evaluated the performance of cumin in India over 15 years (2008-09 to 2022-23), divided into Period-I and II, and the overall period. The results showed positive and significant growth in area, production, and productivity, along with rising export quantity and value. However, a Nominal Protection Coefficient above one in recent years indicated declining export competitiveness. Transitional probability analysis identified Bangladesh as the most stable export market, followed by Brazil and the UAE, while the USA, Nepal, and Saudi Arabia showed instability. Projections to 2029-30 suggest increasing shares for the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with declined for Bangladesh and Brazil. The study highlighted the need for policies focused on quality standardization, efficient supply chains, price stability, and market diversification to sustain India's global competitiveness.
The study examined the economics and impact of sugarcane trash management practices among the sugarcane farmers in Belagavi and Mandya districts. The average cost of cultivation was Indian Rupee1,34,587 per ha, with a B: C ratio of 1.67. Trash management practices significantly improved yield and profitability. Trash composting recorded the highest yield (98.75 t/ha), net returns (Indian Rupee1,46,038/ha) and B: C ratio (1.97), while trash mulching was the most widely adopted (64.60 per cent) with substantial returns. Practices like decomposition and mulching also enhanced soil health. In contrast, trash burning showed the lowest profitability. Overall, scientific trash management proved economically viable and environmentally sustainable for sugarcane cultivation.
Infrastructure is a prerequisite for the development of any economy. In recent years, the role of infrastructure in accelerating economic growth has been widely debated. This study investigated the long-term determinants of economic growth across 16 major Indian states from 1990-91 to 2018-19. The analysis employed ten independent variables, comprising physical, social, and financial indicators along with their respective composite indices, to study their impact on the income levels of selected states of India. Accordingly, fixed-and random-effects panel data regression models were employed to identify the infrastructure determinants of long-term income across Indian states. The panel regression results indicated that physical, social, and financial infrastructure indices exerted a positive and significant impact on income growth across selected Indian states. With respect to individual indicators, gross capital formation, telephones, infant mortality rate, and gross enrolment ratio in schooling were found to be major determinants of state development, as measured by per capita net state domestic product.
The study examined the gendered dimensions of inclusion in skill development initiatives under the Skill India Mission among marginalised rural youth in Assam. Using primary data from 600 respondents in Sivasagar district, it employed a genderdisaggregated empirical framework and logistic and multilevel regression models to examine how socio-economic, institutional, and digital factors shape program participation. Findings revealed that women's inclusion was strongly mediated by Self-Help Groups and community networks, whereas men's participation was more affected by prior experience and income. Women face greater exclusion due to the distance to training centres and infrastructural barriers. The study emphasised the need for gendersensitive delivery models grounded in community structures and social capital within India's skill ecosystem.
The present study analysed the weekly co-integration of kinnow prices among the major kinnow-producing states of India from 2005-06 to 2019-20. The results showed that markets moved together and were well integrated; however, integration was stronger in the case of closely situated markets compared to those markets with long distances between them. All the selected markets were found to be integrated and exhibited long-run relationships with each other. The Hoshiarpur market was a key market as it influenced the prices of other selected markets of the country. To fully integrate the market prices, the study suggested strengthening market intelligence services and improvements in market infrastructure, including storage, transportation, and other physical facilities.
The MSP policy aimed to protect farmers from market volatility and encourage the adoption of modern agricultural practices to enhance production and productivity. The study examined the impact of MSP interventions on crop diversification in the Indian state of Punjab. Data were collected from 320 farmers, which included both MSP participants and non-participants. The results showed that only 43.75 per cent of farmers benefited from the MSP policy. The PSM results revealed a significantly negative impact of MSP on crop diversification, indicating that the policy may discourage diversification in the region. Rosenbaum's sensitivity analysis further confirmed the robustness of the PSM results to potential hidden bias, indicating that the estimated treatment effect remained stable even at higher sensitivity parameters. These findings offered policy makers valuable insights for promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The study recommended expanding the scope of the MSP policy to encourage crop diversification and improve overall farmers' welfare.
This study evaluated the efficiency of the e-National Agriculture Market in Andhra Pradesh, focusing on six commodities: Chilli, turmeric, groundnut, onion, tomato and cotton across selectedAPMCs. The study period was divided into the pre-e-NAM (2012-2016) and post-e-NAM (2017-2021) periods. Percentage analysis, F-test, t-test and ARCH-GARCH models were employed for analysis. The results showed that e-NAM generated employment in all markets. Trade volume and value increased for chilli, onion and tomato, but decreased for cotton due to industry preferences, turmeric due to cold storage sales and groundnut due to COVID-19 impacts. Arrivals and prices varied significantly in the post-integration period, with less volatility for all commodities despite influences from politics, traders and perishability. Overall, e-NAM improved market efficiency. The recommendations included educating farmers about e-NAM processes and benefits, and expanding Farmer-Producer Organizations to boost logistics and bargaining power.
The Union Territory of Ladakh is the leading apricot producer in India and produces 65 per cent of the total production in India. Bitter apricot, locally known as Khantey, accounts for 16 per cent of apricot varieties and is the most commonly processed type. The present study was undertaken in 2022-23 to analyse the costs and returns of the apricot processing unit and to identify the constraints faced by the processor. Data were collected through personal interviews with 5 processors, randomly selected from the twin districts of Ladakh. The study found that the total processing cost to produce the jam was Indian Rupee10.86 lakh, and the net return realised was Indian Rupee3.39 lakh, yielding a profit of Indian Rupee59 per kg of the product. In the processing of apricot oil, the total processing cost was Indian Rupee5.38 lakh, and the net return realised was Indian Rupee2.77lakh. The profit earned per kg of the product was Indian Rupee12 per litre of oil. The major constraints faced by the processors were low domestic demand and limited knowledge of quality issues. This study suggested that the government should take appropriate steps to encourage processors to produce products that can compete nationally.
India's agricultural sector faces the dual challenge of meeting rising demand for food, fibre, and fuel while addressing environmental concerns. While the Green Revolution increased production, it also led to ecological degradation, highlighting the need for sustainable practices. Basmati rice, a major economic crop, faces strict export regulations on pesticide residues. This study examined the economic and environmental impacts of implementing Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in Basmati cultivation. Field trials across three clusters compared GAP with conventional methods. Although GAP slightly reduced yields, it increased returns through premium pricing. Soil assessments showed improved health and sustainability. Reduced chemical inputs and better residue management enhanced profitability and environmental outcomes, supporting sustainable agriculture in India.
The present study examined the factors influencing farmers' willingness to pay for crop insurance using a probit model. The results revealed that 96.67 per cent of farmers perceived pests and diseases as high-risk threats. Alarge proportion of farmers (82.5 per cent) exhibited risk-preferring behaviour, while only 17.5 per cent were risk-averse. The probit estimates indicated that higher income, stronger risk perception, farming experience, and training significantly increased the likelihood of purchasing insurance. In contrast, higher premium costs, risk-preferring attitudes, and older age of household heads negatively affected adoption. The findings suggested the need for targeted policy interventions, including premium subsidies, enhanced risk awareness programmes, crop-specific insurance design, and increased investment in pest and disease management innovations.
The tax revenue system has undergone considerable changes owing to policy reforms and economic shifts in Kerala. The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) has altered the composition of state revenue, reducing reliance on conventional taxes while bringing new challenges in compliance and collection efficiency. This study analysed the trends and issues in tax revenue, with an emphasis on pre-and post-GST periods in Kerala. Although tax revenue showed signs of recovery after the pandemic, issues such as a narrow tax base, dependence on central transfers and pending tax evasion cases continued to pose concerns. Strengthening tax administration, improving enforcement and reassessing fiscal policies under the GST framework are essential steps to ensure stable and sustainable revenue growth for the state.
The study was based on secondary data collected from the FAO between 1991 and 2022 regarding the increasing trend in rice production, consumption, and export of rice from 1993 to 2022. Domestic consumption increased, but the growth rate was lower than production. However, the export data showed substantial growth during the period. In the overall period, world production and consumption had slightly increased and were almost balanced. In most years, the export price of Indian rice was higher than the world price. As a result, India was not price-competitive in exports. The domestic surplus was statistically significant and positively affected the quantity of rice exported. The global deficit had a negative impact, and the price ratio had negatively affected rice exports of India; however, this effect was statistically significant. To make Indian rice exports more competitive, every effort shall be made to reduce production costs. Scientific application of inputs, including water, is essential to reduce the cost of rice cultivation.
The present study analysed consumers' attitudes and perceptions towards avegan lifestyle in Ludhiana city. The results revealed that animal welfare, personal health, and environmental safety were the primary reasons for adopting veganism. Perceptions of consumers towards a vegan lifestyle with demographic variables were found to be non-significant. Vegan consumers perceived veganism as a lifestyle (3.47). Three important factors were identified: vegan consumers perceived veganism as a lifestyle, a vegan lifestyle is difficult to follow, and veganism leads to a moral life. Consumers were satisfied with their decision to adopt a vegan lifestyle. The study emphasized environmental and health concerns. To address growing concerns about a vegan lifestyle, marketers should emphasise the ease of access to vegan products for consumers.
Vegetable seeds play a crucial role in boosting the agricultural economy by increasing farm income, employment, export earnings, nutritional security, and poverty reduction. The main objective of this study was to examine the export potentials, opportunities, and trends in the import of vegetable seeds in India over the past two decades, from 2004 to 2023. An eight-digit ITC (HS) code classification was used for a product-wise analysis of vegetable seeds. India's export quantity of vegetable seeds grew at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.39 per cent, and value grew at a rate of 14 per cent over the past two decades. Similarly, the quantity of vegetable seeds imported to India increased by 15.55 per cent, and the value by 9.4 per cent. India's import quantity of vegetable seeds grew faster than exports, but in terms of value, exports exceeded imports. The transitional probability matrix showed that the export of vegetable seeds from India was highly stable in Asian markets, particularly in Pakistan (70.5 per cent) and Bangladesh (63.5 per cent). However, assessment of export potential revealed that European and Western markets, such as the Netherlands (US $ 29 million) and the USA (US $ 13 million), had greater unrealised export potential for Indian vegetable seeds. Therefore, Indian farmers can tap into these export opportunities in the vegetable seed sector and directly export to these markets to enhance their farm income and achieve sustainability.
Dairy-based beverage powder was prepared from concentrated milk, supplemented with natural sweeteners such as jaggery powder and a resveratrol nanoemulsion, via spray drying. An initial investment of Indian Rupee40 lakh was sufficient to launch a dairy-based beverage powder preparation business, and the investment may be recovered within three years. The expected monthly net profit was Indian Rupee1,19,100. The optimised product was tested in consumer studies and received a positive response. Thus, unemployed youth may start this dairy business on a commercial scale to generate income. Further, the investment in the enterprise was found to be financially viable on the basis of various undiscounted (pay back period) and discounted criteria of project evaluation, i.e. net present value, benefit-cost ratio and internal rate of return.
Fish farming is an important driver of rural livelihoods and food security in West Bengal, India, yet the sector struggles with high input costs, transport bottlenecks, and post-harvest losses. This study, conducted in East Midnapore and North 24 Parganas, covered 450 stakeholders across the fish value chain. Analytical tools, including cost-benefit analysis, value chain mapping, and regression modelling, were applied to assess efficiency and profitability. Results showed production and marketing costs of Indian Rupee109.6 per kg, a net profit of Indian Rupee50.2 per kg, and a benefit-cost ratio of 1.46. Technical efficiency was moderate (0.78), while marketing efficiency stood at 1.27. Post-harvest losses were estimated at 9.8 per cent. Regression analysis indicated that profitability declined with greater market distance and higher input costs, but improved significantly with access to cold storage and participation in contract farming. The results suggested that enhancing access to cold storage facilities, encouraging contract-based marketing, and strengthening local market linkages can substantially improve farmer returns and reduce operational inefficiencies. Institutional support focused on infrastructure and market coordination is therefore essential for sustaining growth in the fisheries sector of West Bengal.
