Factors Affecting Acreage Response of Pulses in the State of Rajasthan

Abstract

Background: Pulses are rich in protein, fiber and vital vitamins and minerals however, since the start of the so-called “green revolution” in 1966-1967, their cultivation has experienced a notable decrease. This declining trend in the area under pulses shows that farmers have been changing their crop selections in response to changing techno-economic circumstances. Thus, there is a strong need to study acreage reactions, which will provide important insights for developing efficient policy directives for pulse development. Methods: The objective of this research is to examine the factors that impact the production of pulse crops in the state of Rajasthan. The study is totally dependent on secondary data that was obtained from state government publications for the years 2000–01 and 2019-20. In order to achieve its goals, the study uses backward an elimination regression method. Result: The findings indicate that current-year irrigation significantly improved chickpea farming, while positive effects on pigeon pea acreage were linked to current-year rainfall, lagged irrigated area and pigeon pea yield variability. However, pigeon pea acreage was negatively affected by current-year irrigation and lagged production. Additionally, positive correlations were found between the lagged price of a rival crop (Bajra), current-year rainfall and moong bean acreage response. Urd bean acreage benefited from one-year lagged rainfall, lagged area and yield of pulse crops and lagged pricing of a rival crop (linseed). Therefore, investing in research and development, promoting rainfed techniques and establishing supportive pricing systems are crucial for boosting pulse production and meeting future demand efficiently.