District-level Agricultural Development in Himachal Pradesh: A Composite Agricultural Development Index Approach

Abstract

Aims: Agriculture in Himachal Pradesh exhibits considerable spatial heterogeneity owing to variations in agro-climatic conditions, resource endowments and farming systems. Productivity-based measures alone do not adequately capture the multidimensional nature of agricultural development in mountain regions. This study constructs an Agricultural Development Index to assess and compare district-level agricultural development in Himachal Pradesh by integrating multiple dimensions of agricultural performance. Data and Methods: The study is based on unit-level data from the National Sample Survey (NSS) Situation Assessment Survey of Agricultural Households, 70th Round (2012-13) and 77th Round (2018-19). Fourteen indicators representing five dimensions were selected to capture the multidimensional nature of agricultural development. The indicators were standardised using the Z-score method and aggregated with equal weights to construct the Agricultural Development Index, which was subsequently used to rank the districts. Results: The findings reveal substantial inter-district disparities in agricultural development in the state. Horticulture-oriented districts, particularly Kinnaur, Shimla and Sirmaur, consistently recorded the highest ADI scores, reflecting the contribution of crop diversification, commercialisation and high-value agriculture. Conversely, districts dominated by traditional cereal-based farming and characterised by lower market integration showed comparatively weaker agricultural performance. Although mechanisation remained constrained in several hill districts owing to difficult terrain, higher levels of agricultural development were generally associated with greater diversification towards horticulture and stronger market orientation. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that agricultural development in mountain regions is inherently multidimensional and cannot be adequately assessed through productivity indicators alone. The Agricultural Development Index provides a framework for identifying regional disparities and supports district-specific policies aimed at promoting balanced, inclusive and sustainable agricultural development in Himachal Pradesh.