Resource Use Pattern and Efficiency of Non-Basmati Paddy Production in Punjab

The study evaluated the resource-use pattern and efficiency in non-basmati paddy production in Punjab.

The unit/farm level data collected under centrally sponsored scheme Comprehensive Scheme for Studying the Cost of Cultivation of Principal Crops in Punjab has been analyzed for this purpose. The total variable cost incurred on paddy cultivation showed an inverse relationship with the farm size as variable cost decreased with the increase in farm size category with Rs 49033/-ha on small, Rs 42107/ha on medium and Rs 38989/-ha on large farms. The estimated returns in percentage terms turn out to be 66.25 per cent over and above the total variable cost of paddy cultivation on overall farms. Returns over variable cost had direct relation with farm size, both in percentage as well as in absolute terms. The results of Cobb-Douglas production function revealed that human labour, irrigation, farm yard manure and plant protection were found to be significantly affecting productivity in paddy cultivation in the State.