Rotational tenure and land productivity: farm level evidence from low country wet zone paddy lands in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Rotational tenure systems of Thattumaru – Kattimaru is a special system which is peculiar to certain parts of the country specially the Mid and Low country Wet zone paddy lands. Even though the original features are slowly waning, it still survives most persistently in areas where land is limited, and agriculture remains the predominant occupation. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the paddy production performance and resource use efficiency in the rotational tenure paddy lands. Data from comprehensive field survey conducted in Ratnapura, Kalutara and Galle districts in 2018/2019 Maha and 2019 Yala season was used for the study. Technical efficiency and determinates of the efficiency were estimated using stochastic frontier approach. Results of the efficiency analysis reveal that inefficiencies do exist in paddy production under rotational tenure and estimated production loss due to inefficiencies is 45 percent. Land, labour and seeds have significant impact on the yield. Level of productivity can be enhanced making relevant resource adjustment while combining it with social factors.