Yield Gap Analysis and Its Sources in Potato Production in North Bank Plain Zone of Assam, India

Abstract

The present study analysed the magnitude of yield gap and identified the sources of yield gap in potato production in Undivided Sonitpur and Lakhimpur districts of Assam. Both primary and secondary data were used. A multi-stage purposive cum random sampling technique was employed to select the ultimate sample farmers (n=120), who were stratified into four farm-size groups, namely marginal, small, semi-medium, and medium. Yield gaps between potential, demonstration, and actual farm yields were estimated using International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) yield gap method, and Yield Gap-II was analysed using two regression models. Model I included technology-related variables along with socio-economic factors, while Model II incorporated the technology adoption index (TAI) and socio-economic variables. The results revealed substantial yield gaps, with Yield Gap-II and Total Yield Gap remaining high, indicating considerable scope for improving potato productivity. The yield gap was higher in the Lakhimpur district than Undivided Sonitpur district and declined with increasing farm size. Regression analysis showed that the use of certified seed, balanced fertilizer application, plant protection measures, FYM application, irrigation, and access to credit significantly reduced the yield gap. The technology adoption index (TAI) emerged as the most important determinant of yield gap reduction, indicating that incomplete adoption of recommended production practices was the major constraint in potato production. Therefore, strengthened efforts by extension agencies to promote farmers’ acceptance, adoption, and effective utilization of recommended technologies, along with improved access to quality inputs and credit, are needed to enhance productivity and reduce yield gaps in potato production in the study area.