Economic evaluation of Pusa Rice Hybrid 10 cultivation: a micro-economic evidence of Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

Policies for quality hybrid rice research, large-scale adoption and their impact on households’ rice economy are discussed in this study. Farm level data was used to analyze the impact of Pusa Rice Hybrid 10 (PRH 10) on input demand and income of households in irrigated rice growing environment. The quality traits of this hybrid seem to be positive as high HRR, aroma, cooking and eating quality. Consumers demand in the market for PRH 10 is very strong which led to premium prices. Based on analysis, it is found that, compared with conventional modern varieties; PRH 10 uses about 5% less input due to lesser use of fertilizer and labour. The lesser requirements for fertilizer and labour probably arise from shorter maturity duration (115 days) and lower seeding rate. Analysis revealed that, given the same level of inputs, the grain yield of PRH 10 has slightly lower than HYVs, whereas, net return is higher about 80%. Analysis indicates that PRH 10 was planted about 11 % area but the share of income was 16% to total rice income. Adoption of PRH 10 also facilitates farmers to increase crop diversification and intensification that could maintain soil health and environment.