Socio-economic and Impact Assessment of Edible Oilseed Crops (Soybean and Groundnut) in Sagar District of Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

This study delves into the socio-economic dynamics of soybean and groundnut cultivation in the Sagar District of Madhya Pradesh during the agricultural year 2023–24, with the primary objective of analyzing the economic status and the influence of various socio-economic factors on farming practices across different farm size categories—marginal, small, medium, and large. A total of 300 farmers were selected through a multistage random sampling method from 10 villages in Khurai and Khimlasa blocks to ensure diverse and representative data. The results indicate that marginal farmers make up the majority (55%) of the sample population, while large farmers enjoy higher annual incomes due to better access to capital, technology, and markets. It was found that income generation is not solely dependent on farming; only 40% of income was derived from agricultural activities, while a substantial 60% came from non-farm sources, highlighting the increasing reliance on alternative livelihood options for rural households. Socio-economic variables such as family size, gender, age, education level, land tenure status, and occupation were identified as significant factors influencing farmers' participation and performance in agricultural activities, as confirmed by chi-square tests (p < 0.05). These findings underscore the complexity of rural livelihoods and the interplay between social and economic factors in shaping agricultural outcomes. The study offers critical insights for policymakers, suggesting the need for tailored interventions that address the disparities among different farmer groups, promote inclusive growth, strengthen non-farm income avenues, and enhance the overall productivity and sustainability of the oilseed farming sector in Madhya Pradesh.