An Economic Analysis of Production and Post Harvest Losses in Niger Crop in Bastar Plateau of Chhattisgarh

An attempt has been made in this study to examine the economic analysis of post harvest losses in niger in Bastar Plateau of Chhattisgarh state. The study was conducted in Tokapal and Lohandiguda blocks in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh state. Sixty nine niger farmers were selected randomly from ten villages from these blocks to collect the required information on the cost of cultivation, post harvest losses and other aspects for the present study. The primary data was collected from the niger producers through personal interview method with the help of well prepared schedule and questionnaire for the production and post harvest year for kharif 2014–15. The objectives were achieved using exponential function, standard CACP cost framework and regression analyses. The average cost of cultivation and input-output ratio of niger was worked out as Rs. 11030.14/ha. and 1: 1.23. The per quintal total post harvest physical and monetary losses was estimated as 4.14 kg. and Rs. 210.37. Amongst allactivities, thehighest losseswere observed in harvesting 1.59 kg./qtl. (38.50%) followed by drying 0.77 kg. per quintal(18.64%), storage 0.76 kg. per quintal (18.40%), threshing and winnowing 0.66 kg. per quintal (15.98%), other activities 0.27 kg. per quintal(6.54%) and transportation 0.08 kg. per quintal (1.94%) in the total post harvest losses of niger at farm level. In view of finding of this study, it may be suggested that there is need to increase the profitability from niger cultivation by the use of low cost farm machinery, irrigation, good quality and high yielding varieties, use of balanced fertilizers and agrochemical, improved package and practices, marketing and remunerative prices, effective extension along with conducive policy measures. Availability of storage and proper threshing facilities along with good management and proper implementation of post harvest technology may reduce post harvest losses in niger at the farmer's level.