TARGETING KEY CONSTRAINTS: EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF SIX MAJOR FACTORS INFLUENCING HORTICULTURE PRODUCTIVITY IN KUMAON

Horticulture contributes significantly to agricultural production and rural economic growth in hilly areas, where traditional crop production potential is low.But, because of the geographic complexities, there are many challenges in the way of the industry's commercialization and production in areas, such as Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.The objective of this study is to assess the intensity of the six most significant constraints perceived by horticulture producers, which considerably impact horticultural production in the Kumaon region.The study identifies six major constraints that are listed as wildlife interference, lack of horticulture storage infrastructure, high transportation cost, unavailability of regional horticulture-based enterprises, unavailability of structured procurement mechanisms, and small size of agricultural landholding.Based on the producers' assessments, their collective impact is measured against the dependent variable, 'the level of horticulture productivity'.The five-point Likert scale has been employed in this study as a primary method of collecting data from horticulturists to structure and quantify these challenges.Furthermore, multiple regression analysis is employed to assess the relative impact of each constraint on horticulture productivity.This study will provide clear insights into the constraints that need to be addressed through various steps and measures by different stakeholders.The research thus contributes to the wider debate on the development of sustainable horticulture in mountain areas, identifying the key issues.It even suggests practical policy measures for effective productivity, improved market access, and long-term profitability of horticulture in Kumaon.