SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT OF NHM SCHEME ON WATERMELON FARMERS IN DEOGARH DISTRICT OF ODISHA

Abstract

The objective of the paper is to analyse the impact of National Horticulture Mission (NHM) on Watermelon farmers in Deogarh district of Odisha. The study is based on both secondary data and primary data and has used bar diagrams, percentage, regression as techniques of analysis. Watermelon  has come up as a major horticultural crop in Deogarh district of Odisha since many decades as it is contributing a  lot to its agro-economy. Farmers of different categories have started adopting this crop in their cropping system and production as well as productivity in watermelon farming has also increased. with the help of National Horticulture Mission (NHM), watermelon farmer’s socio-economic impact has witnessed a change. Since the NPV is Rs.2.48 lakhs and positive,  it is feasible and profitable to go for the water melon production. The Government and nongovernmental agencies should stimulate more participation in watermelon production in the sample villages of Barkote block in Deogarh district by providing trained agricultural extension staffs.