An Analysis of Chilli Cultivation in Karnataka: A Case Study of Gadag District
Author : Dr. Nagaraja O
Abstract :
Chili is an important cash crop in India and is grown for its pungent fruits, which are used food. Green chillies are rich in Vitamin A and C, minerals and protein both green and ripe (the latter in the dried form) to impart pungency to the. The present study investigates the socio-economic conditions, cultivation practices, and challenges faced by chilli farmers in Hatalageri village, Gadag Taluk of Gadag District, Karnataka. Based on primary data collected from 30 chilli cultivators through structured interviews and supplemented with secondary data from scholarly sources, the research aimed to
- Assess the socio-economic profile of the farmers,
- Gather their opinions on chilli cultivation,
- Analyze the functioning of chilli farming in the region, and
- Identify key problems and suggest practical remedies.
Findings reveal that the majority of chilli farmers are male (93.33%) with limited educational attainment, where 23.33% are illiterate and only 10% have completed graduation. Agriculture remains the primary occupation for 83.33% of respondents. While a significant portion (66.66%) have adopted modern cultivation practices, one-third still depend on traditional methods. Marketing challenges persist, with 53.33% of farmers selling through intermediaries, often at reduced profit margins. Additionally, while 60% expressed satisfaction with the current market system, 40% indicated the need for improvement. The study highlights issues such as gender disparity, lack of female literacy, limited market access, and insufficient community collaboration. Recommendations include promoting gender inclusion, expanding access to modern farming techniques, improving irrigation infrastructure, supporting direct marketing channels, and encouraging farmer cooperatives. These interventions could enhance productivity, equity, and income sustainability in the region.
Keywords :
Chilli production, methods of cultivation, commercial crops farmers, cost o cultivation.
