Analysis of Total Factor Productivity Growth in Food Crops of Gujarat

Productivity is a necessary element in growth since the improvement in productivity can lessen the overall burden on the poor. This study aims to examine the Total Factor Productivity (TFP) growth in eight food crops of Gujarat utilising the input-output data from 1981-82 to 1998-99. Tornquist Theil Index, superior to other indices, was used for computing total output index, total input index and the total factor productivity index. A continuous increase in the productivity of all the crops under study was reported during 1960-61 to 1999-2000. Howeve, an increase in acreage during the same period was noticed only in case of wheat, Paddy, maize, tur and gram.

Bajra crop registered a very high growth rate of TFP indicating technological change. Moderate technological change was found in case of wheat, maize and pulse crops. Policy attention needs to he paid to strengthen the sources, which have positive impact on TFP. The institutional infrastructure plays an important role not only in providing physical input but also in inducing technical change. For this, an increase in investment on research and input use efficieney are also necessary.