Cost-Return Structure and Farmers’ Opinions on Cashew Nut Cultivation: A Comparative study of Small and Large Scale Farmers From India

Abstract

Purpose: This study focuses on analysing the cost and returns associated with cashew cultivation with the aim of showcasing its profitability for small scale and large-scale farmers. Additionally, the research explores the perspectives of farmers on factors affecting cashew cultivation, such as profitability, incentives, support systems, soil quality, climate conditions, and related aspects. Method/design/approach: The researchers collected primary data from 220 cashew nut farmers and employed techniques like regression analysis, percentile analysis, and the Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) test to evaluate the collected data. Results and Conclusion: The results indicated that large-scale farmers enjoy advantages in terms of productivity and profitability compared to small farmers. There is a direct correlation between the size of a farm and its productivity. However, large farmers face higher costs for cultivation in contrast to small farmers. Farmers generally hold a positive view about the profitability, incentives, and support provided for cashew cultivation. However, they express concerns about the crop’s adaptability to different climates and soil conditions. Originality/value: The study contributes by highlighting that large scale farmers have an advantage in terms of productivity and profitability. It indicates the need for better policy formation in favour of small-scale farmers by allocating them additional land through appropriate amendments.