Possibilities of Crop Diversification from Paddy to Vegetables in Haryana: A Case Study of Sonipat District

Abstract

Haryana state is considered foremost in terms of agricultural growth rate, productivity level and gains from green revolution technology. Problems resulting from green revolution technology like over-exploitation of ground water, soil degradation, weed infestation, mono-cropping, production approaching plateau and stagnation of farm income have also emerged strongly in the state. Therefore the study aims to analyze the relative economics of paddy vis-à-vis vegetable crops by using benefit-cost ratio (BCR) and to examine the reasons for diversification towards vegetables in Sonipat district of Haryana. The result of the study shows that the cost of cultivation was found lowest for paddy growers but vegetables generate higher returns as compared to paddy. It was also found that the timely payment, less dependence on mechanical inputs, marketing facilities and chance of seasonal advantage were the important reasons for attraction towards vegetables among majority of different categories of farmers.