Custom Hiring Services Availed, Constraints and Suggestions Perceived by the Farmers in Jabalpur District of Madhya Pradesh

Abstract

Custom hiring services (CHS) has enabled the small and the marginal farmers to timely carry out the farm operations by providing access to the costly farm machines at subsidized rate on hiring basis. It has been advantageous in drudgery reduction, minimizing the cost of cultivation and also creating opportunities for skilled labour. Custom hiring has facilitated efficient use of resources and applied inputs. In spite of its importance and need, farm mechanization is still beyond the reach and acceptance of many farmers in India due to various constraints perceived by them. The present study was carried out in the Patan block of Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh with a sample size of 80 respondents availing services from the custom hiring centres (CHC). Proportionate random sampling technique and Ex-post facto research design was used for the purpose of the study. Statements related to different constraints faced and suggestions to overcome them expressed by the respondents were recorded and ranked accordingly. ‘Lack of knowledge about custom hiring centres’ and ‘non-availability of machineries during peak season’ were the maximum constraints faced whereas ‘dissemination of technical know-how’ and ‘establishment of more number of CHC under one panchayat’ were the most important suggestions given to overcome the problems perceived regarding the CHS.