Strategic Assessment of Soybean (Glycine max L.) Agriculture and Farmer Livelihoods in Latur District, Maharashtra

Abstract Soybean (Glycine max L.) is a major oilseed and pulse crop that plays a vital role in the socio-economic fabric of Latur district, Maharashtra. It appears as a source in the agricultural economy of Latur district, and has evolved into a critical component of both food and livelihood security for farming households. This study provides a strategic assessment of soybean cultivation in Latur with a focus on agricultural practices, productivity trends, market dynamics, and the impact on farmer livelihoods. Data were obtained through comprehensive field surveys, interviews, and government reports covering the period from 2013 to 2023. Primary and secondary data were analyzed using surveys, interviews, and statistical tools. Despite its potential, soybean cultivation in Latur faces considerable constraints, including erratic monsoon patterns, low seed replacement rates, pest incidences, and price instability. These factors contribute to declining profit margins and increased vulnerability among smallholder farmers. The study found that although soybean is a dominant kharif crop in the region, fluctuating yields due to erratic monsoon patterns, poor access to high-yielding varieties, and volatile market prices significantly affect farmers’ income and sustainability. The study further highlights the partial reach of Minimum Support Price (MSP) schemes, gender-specific challenges, and gaps in farmer responsiveness about climate-resilient practices. Strategic recommendations include the advancement of certified seed varieties, ability building through agricultural extension services, establishment and improvement of agro-processing units to increase local value addition. Recommendations include improved extension services, climate-resilient varieties, and robust farmer producer organizations (FPOs). If these interventions are efficiently implemented, soybean cultivation can meaningfully increase livelihood security and local financial resilience.