Regional Variations in Productivity of Major Cereals and Pulses in Maharashtra, India

Abstract

The analysis was carried out for four major regions-Konkan, Western Maharashtra, Marathwada and Vidarbha-as well as for the state as a whole, across three sub-periods (Period I (1991-92 to 2000-01), Period II (2001-02 to 2010–11) and Period III (2011-12 to 2020-21) for 30 years. Four major cereals and four major pulses were selected for study. Productivity instability was assessed using the Coefficient of Variation (CV) and the Cuddy-Della Valle Instability Index (CDVI), which adjusts variability for long-term trends. The analysis revealed substantial regional variation in productivity instability of major cereals and pulses across Maharashtra during 1991–92 to 2020–21. Rice and wheat exhibited relatively stable productivity, particularly in Konkan and Western Maharashtra, due to favourable agro-climatic conditions, assured irrigation and better technological adoption. In contrast, coarse cereals (pearl millet and sorghum) and pulses showed medium to high instability, with pronounced fluctuations in Marathwada and Vidarbha regions. The highest instability was observed in pulses, especially pigeon pea, green gram and black gram, reflecting their sensitivity to erratic rainfall, droughts and limited irrigation coverage. Overall, the findings indicate that climatic stress, regional resource disparities and uneven technology adoption are the major drivers of productivity instability in Maharashtra agriculture. At overall period, the least instability was observed in Wheat and Rice (<15 %), while medium instability was noted in Pearl Millet, Sorghum, Chick Pea, Green Gram and Black Gram (15-30 %). In contrast, high instability was observed in Pigeon Pea (>30 %).