The Degree and Determinants of Commercialisation of Agriculture through Apple Crop in the Western Himalayan State of Himachal Pradesh
Published by: Admin
Authors: Chander Mohan Negi
Abstract
Agriculture is the primary occupation of the people of Himachal Pradesh, contributing approximately ten per cent of the state’s gross domestic product. Within the agricultural sector, the horticulture sector plays a dominant role, and the state has been well known as a model state for the development of hill states. The aim of the current study is to assess the extent and determinants of commercialisation among the prominent appleproducing districts and socio-economic groups. This study is based on a primary survey and employs nonparametric tests, such as the Kruskal-Wallis test and multiple regression, for data analysis. The findings indicate a significant variation in the level of commercialisation across different districts and social groups. Small and marginal farmers comprise 72 per cent of the population but own 33.94 per cent of the land. The average size of land is 1.84 ha, with a wide disparity in land ownership. Both education and irrigation have a positive and significant impact on commercialisation. Improved irrigation, transportation systems, storage facilities, and processing units enable farmers to access larger markets and secure better prices. Government policy must be designed to cater to both small and marginal farmers, as well as those from the weaker sections of society.