Assessing Total Factor Productivity in Rice Production: Challenges and Opportunities in the Indo-Gangetic Plain

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) serves as a staple food for over half of the global population. However, productivity in the Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP) has stagnated despite initial gains from the Green Revolution. This study analysed the Total Factor Productivity (TFP) of rice in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal from 1970 to 2020 using the Divisia Tornqvist-Theil and DEA-Malmquist indices. Results indicated a decline in TFP Punjab (-0.27 per cent) and Haryana (-0.18 per cent) due to high production costs and unsustainable practices. In comparison, Uttar Pradesh recorded a 1.28 per cent increase driven by improved irrigation and infrastructure. Socio-economic factors, including public expenditure and labour availability, significantly influenced TFP. Promoting sustainable practices, enhancing resource efficiency, and increasing R&D investment were essential to revitalize rice productivity and ensure food security in the IGP..