Spatial and Temporal Pattern of Crop Concentration and Diversification and its Determinants in Madhya Pradesh

Abstract

This study assessed the spatial and temporal pattern of crop diversification and concentration at the district level in Madhya Pradesh using Simpson's index of diversification and Bhatia's location coefficient. The results indicated that wheat, chickpea, and soyabean emerged as the dominant crops, and the area under other crops reduced over the 50 years from 1968 to 2017. Crop diversification reduced till 2007 and slightly improved in 2008-17. Balaghat remained the least diversified throughout the study period. Regression results indicated crop diversification was significantly affected by cropping intensity, fertilizer usage, annual average rainfall, and irrigation with surface water. The study advocated for adequate policy support for coarse cereals to increase crop diversification and ensure nutritional security. It also argued for adequate policy support to districts poorly performing in agriculture for a balanced development of the sector in the state.