Assessing the Economics and Input Use Efficiency of Pearl Millet Cultivation in North Gujarat, India

Millets have gained considerable attention in recent years due to increasing awareness regarding their nutritional importance. Owing to their low input requirement and resilience under adverse conditions, they are also becoming increasingly popular among producers. The present study was conducted in the Sabarkantha and Mehsana districts of Gujarat where pearl millet is widely cultivated during the summer season. A multistage sampling technique was employed for the study. The findings revealed that labour constituted the major share ofthe total cost of cultivation. The benefit-cost ratio was estimated at 1.44 :1.0 in Mehsana and 1.24 :1.0 in Sabarkantha, indicating that pearl millet cultivation was profitable in both districts. Resource use efficiency analysis showed that fertilizers and pesticides had a significant positive influence on output, suggesting scope for improving productivity through their optimum utilization. The study highlighted the need for coordinated efforts among all stakeholders involved in pearl millet cultivation to promote efficient input management. Capacity-building initiatives focusing on precise and effective use of inputs can further enhance increase benefits level.