Assessing resource use efficiency in potato cultivation: Insights from Surguja district, Chhattisgarh

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a crucial crop in Indian agriculture, contributing significantly to the economy of Chhattisgarh. This study focuses on evaluating resource use efficiency in potato cultivation across different farm sizes in the Surguja district of Chhattisgarh. Primary data were collected from 250 potato growers in Narbadapur, Sarbhanja, Kargi, and Gadaghat villages during the agricultural year 2022-23, while secondary data were sourced from government reports and agricultural agencies. Using a Cobb-Douglas production function, the study assesses the marginal value products (MVPs) of critical inputs such as labor, fertilizers, seeds, and irrigation to evaluate resource efficiency across small, medium, and large farms. The analysis reveals significant disparities in resource use efficiency. Small farms exhibit under-utilization of critical inputs, with MVP/input price ratios deviating from unity for labor (1.35), fertilizers (0.89), and seeds (0.76). Medium farms reflect a mix of under-utilization and overutilization of inputs, while large farms approach optimal utilization, with ratios nearing unity for most inputs. Fertilizers (1.40), plant protection chemicals (1.00), and manure (1.10) were identified as the most impactful inputs on yields, whereas irrigation (0.50) and seeds (0.60) showed inefficiencies due to overuse. The study recommends policy measures such as subsidized access to high-quality inputs, better credit facilities, enhanced irrigation, and storage infrastructure. Targeted interventions are essential for addressing inefficiencies and ensuring the profitability and sustainability of potato farming in the Surguja district.