A Review on Farm Size and Agricultural Productivity in Kerala, India

Abstract

In Kerala, the primary sector, i.e., the agriculture sector, has undergone significant changes in cultivation practices, farm size, productivity, and cropping patterns over the last thirty years since the adoption of land reforms. As a result of the remarkable rise in agricultural holdings, a significant number of extremely smallholdings have emerged. Agriculture and allied sector play a critical role in ensuring food security, reducing poverty, generating livelihood and providing imputes to the growth of industries and services. Unsurprisingly, agricultural productivity increased substantially throughout this time as well. This research primarily investigates the relationship between farm size and agricultural productivity in Kerala. The study reveals an inverse relationship between farm size and productivity indicating that small farms are more productive than large farms. The key findings suggests that small farmers in Kerala make efficient use of resources, adopt intensive cultivation practices and achieve higher crop yields. Based on the findings one key recommendation is that policy makers should prioritize support small and marginal farmers through initiative like agricultural extension services, credit facilities, and market access to enhance their productivity and livelihoods.