A Study on Area Decline Analysis of Maize Crop in Eluru District of Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

The research study was conducted during the year 2023–24 in Eluru district of Andhra Pradesh. A well-structured and pre-tested interview schedule was developed in accordance with the objectives of the study. Data were collected from 60 farmers, who were selected using a purposive random sampling technique. For the present study, an ex-post facto research design was adopted, as the independent variables under investigation already existed and could not be manipulated by the researcher. Statistical tools like Frequency, Percentage, Mean, Standard Deviation and Garrett ranking technique were employed for interpreting the results. It was observed that major constraints includes ineffective control of fall armyworm despite the application of concurrent pesticide sprays holds first rank with Garrett Rank Score of 74.10 followed by Increase in cost of cultivation (second rank with GRS 71.73), increased cost of agricultural inputs, including fertilizers, pesticides, and weedicides (third rank with GRS 63.80), Labor expenses ( fourth rank with GRS 58.50) and diversification to Horticulture crops especially Oil Palm (fifth rank with GRS 48.73). Farmers suggestions includes to develop best module for control of fall army worm by the research station placed under first rank with GRS 69.83 followed by to provide subsidy on inputs by Government (second rank with GRS 66.60), to develop and promote farm mechanization in Maize crop (seed to seed) to overcome the labour problem (third rank with GRS 52.97) and to offer remunerative price for the product by the government (fourth rank with GRS 43.03).