An Econometric Analysis of Structural Factors of Pulse Production in India: The Case of Chickpea in Maharashtra.

Abstract

The shift in chickpea area from the temperate arid region to semi-arid tropics deciphers that it is well entrenched in varying production environments where it can utilize limited soil moisture and nutrients more efficiently than cereal crops. The study has analyzed the structural factors of chickpea production using area and yield equations besides discerning dynamics of sources of chickpea production using time series data for the period 1990–2012 and Minot approach. The study has observed that before 2003–04, the chickpea production was driven by area expansion and not significantly by productivity improvement. The technology-led growth became a reality after 2004–05. On policy front, a price signal does exercise a weak influence on acreage allocation decision of farmers due to absence of procurement system. Appropriate and consistent government policy on technology, extension services and effective procurement institution along with strength of farmers could be utilized to boost pulse production in general and chickpea production in particular in Maharashtra.