Evaluating Arecanut Production Performance: A Comparative Analysis of Tumcos (Tota Utpannagala Marata Sahakara Sangha Niyamit) Members and Non-Members in Davanagere, Karnataka, India

Arecanut (Areca catechu), commonly known as betel nut, is a vital commercial crop in India, with Karnataka being the leading producer. Despite its economic significance, arecanut growers encounter various challenges, including increasing input costs, labor shortages, and limited knowledge of pest and disease management. Cooperatives like TUMCOS (Tota Utpannagala Marata Sahakara Sangha Niyamit) play a crucial role in supporting farmers by providing essential resources, training programs, and market linkages. This study assesses the production performance of arecanut growers by comparing TUMCOS members and non-members in Davanagere district, Karnataka. Conducted across five TUMCOS branch areas during 2020-2021, the study employed an ex-post facto research design. A total of 120 farmers (60 TUMCOS members and 60 non-members) were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected through structured personal interviews and analyzed using statistical tools to evaluate production performance, knowledge levels, and adoption rates of recommended agricultural practices. Findings indicate that TUMCOS members exhibited superior performance compared to non-members, with over two-fifths (41.66%) of members achieving high production performance, whereas more than half (53.34%) of non-members fell into the medium-performance category. Similarly, knowledge levels were higher among members, with 41.66% possessing high knowledge compared to only 25.00% of non-members. This disparity was attributed to regular training sessions, extension services, and access to quality inputs facilitated by TUMCOS. Additionally, the adoption of recommended practices, particularly in irrigation methods, pest management, and intercropping, was more prevalent among members. The study underscores the significance of cooperative membership in enhancing farmers' technical expertise and resource availability, thereby improving productivity. Strengthening cooperative networks and expanding extension services can help bridge the gap between members and non-members, promoting sustainable arecanut farming. Addressing labor shortages, improving disease management knowledge, and ensuring access to high-quality seedlings are critical areas for future intervention.