Causes for crop loss in selected cereal crops- an insight from nsso data

In the present study we have attempted to address three major issues for crop loss as perceived by agricultural households using the data available from situation assessment of agricultural households and land and holdings of households in rural India 2019, NSSO 77th round report. Three major cereal crops viz., paddy, wheat and maize crops are selected for the study. The issues addressed are, identify major factors responsible for crop loss, to what extent farmers are satisfied about the market price they receive in local markets and APMCs. Whether the farmers are utilising the some of the instruments like making use of MSP to sell their crop and crop insurance to insulate them from production risk. Majority of the agricultural households across all the states have expressed concern that inadequate rainfall/ drought and diseases and insect and animal are the major cause for the crop loss. Majority of agricultural households continue to depend on local markets and APMCs to sell their produce and not satisfied with the price they receive for their produce. Though there has been awareness regarding MSP but very few farmers are taking advantage of the same. Programmes like, rejuvenation of small tanks / water bodies along with water efficient method of irrigation like drip / sprinkler irrigation system will ensure more crop for a drop and insulate farmers from deficient rain fall and drought situations. Watershed development programme shall be taken up in dry land areas to conserve water and ensure its judicious utilisation. Agro-service centre should be put in place at panchayat level for effective and quick dissemination of not only weather situation but also related farming practices to be taken up by farmers such as protecting crop from pest and diseases etc. that enhances farmers’ income. Farmers shall be encouraged to use e-NAM facilities to sale their produce. Insurance agencies have to put more efforts to motivate farmers to go for crop insurance and instil confidence among farmers regarding proper assessment of crop damage and timely settlement of the claims.