Sheela Kharkwal1*and Ravindra Malhotra2
1 Department of Agricultural Economics, SKNAU Jobner, Rajasthan 321001
2 Division of Dairy Economics, Statistics and Management, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (deemed University), Karnal, Haryana 132001
Email: sheela.kharkwal91@gmail.com
Received-09.11.2018, Revised-27.11.2018
Abstract: This study was aimed at identifying cropping pattern in Uttarakhand state and analyzing cost, return and profitability of cereals in different seasons. The study is based on the both primary and secondary sources and has made use of the farm level cross-sectional data collected through multistage random sampling technique from 200 sample farmers belonging to different hill altitudes. To estimate cost major inputs like labor, farmyard manure, fertilizer, seeds, animal feed etc were identified and valued at the prevailing market rates. Returns were estimated by multiplying quantities produced of particular crop and current market prices. Results indicated a cropping intensity of 188% and the cereal crops accounted for around 70% of the gross cropped area. Wheat emerged as the main food grain crop in the study area with its percentage share of 26.98% in the gross cropped area, while paddy (24.21%) was the second major cereal crop in the study area. The cost of cultivation of cereals summer season (` 11704/acre) was slightly less than that of cereals in winter season (` 11866/acre). Per acre net return from cereals was found to be higher for winter season (` 11237.7/acre) when compared to wheat summer season (` 8420.37/acre).
Keywords: Cereals, Cropping pattern, Cost of cultivation, Net returns, Seasons
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