Input Intensification and Surplus Production: Assessing the Sustainability of Paddy Cultivation in Telangana, India
D.A. Rajini Devi
*
Cost of Cultivation Scheme, Professor Jayashankar Telangana Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
B. Mohan Uday Raj
Cost of Cultivation Scheme, Professor Jayashankar Telangana Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
R. Vijaya Kumari
Cost of Cultivation Scheme, Professor Jayashankar Telangana Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study examines the sustainability of paddy intensification in Telangana during 2014–15 to 2021–22 using time-series trend analysis and Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) estimation. The results show that while the area and production of paddy expanded sharply, productivity gains remained modest, indicating diminishing returns to input intensification. Mechanization increased significantly, accompanied by rising fertilizer and pesticide use and declining farmyard manure application, raising ecological and soil health concerns. The cost of cultivation rose faster than the Minimum Support Price (MSP), compressing farmer profitability and questioning long-term economic viability. Policy interventions promoting balanced nutrient management, diversification, and export facilitation are recommended to ensure long-term sustainability.”
Keywords: Crop diversification, cost of cultivation, export, input use efficiency, minimum support price, paddy cultivation