Statistical Evaluation of Development Indices on Agricultural Front in Gujarat

The study has assessed the agricultural status of Gujarat by constructing composite agricultural status indices at regional as well as district levels using Prem Narain's methodology. The study is based on the secondary data for the average period of 2001–05 and 2006–10 on 31 indicators relevant to the agricultural sector. The values of agricultural status indices at the regional level have revealed a considerable rise in the status of Saurashtra region whereas the Kutchh region was still least developed. Thus, there exists regional disparity in agricultural status in the Gujarat state. The district-wise study has revealed that 10 districts were highly developed, 6 districts were under medium development category and 9 districts were under low development category. The study has observed that the region of Kutchh needs special attention of policymakers as well as government for its agricultural development.