This document summarizes a study that analyzed the factors influencing seed cotton output in Ghana's Northern Region. 200 cotton farmers were surveyed using multi-stage random sampling. An augmented Cobb-Douglas production model was used for analysis. The results showed farmer's education, experience, farm size, fertilizer use, labor, location, extension contact and farmer group size were significant determinants of output. The estimation also showed decreasing returns to scale of 0.824. The relevance of input factors calls for policies focusing on timely provision of quality inputs.
Productivity and resource use efficiency in tomato and watermelon farmsAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that examined productivity and resource use efficiency in tomato and watermelon farms in Ghana. The study found that the value of output for watermelon was higher than for tomato, due to differences in output prices and input costs. Analysis of factors affecting output value found that for tomato, land, labor and experience were significant, while for watermelon, land, non-agricultural activity and training were significant. Marginal values for land and labor were higher than market prices, indicating inefficient use of those resources for both crops. Fertilizer use for tomato and capital use for watermelon did not significantly impact output values, showing underutilization of those inputs. The results have implications for
11.productivity and resource use efficiency in tomato and watermelon farmsAlexander Decker
This study examines productivity and resource use efficiency in tomato and watermelon farms in Ghana. The value of output for watermelon farms was higher than for tomato farms, due to differences in output prices and input costs. It cost more to produce a hectare of tomato (GH¢704.59) than watermelon (GH¢509.03), but tomato yields per hectare were lower (GH¢480.37 vs GH¢1738.68 for watermelon). Factors like land, labor, and experience influenced tomato output value, while land, non-farm activity, and training impacted watermelon output. Marginal values for land and labor exceeded market prices, indicating inefficient resource use for both crops
- The study examined the profitability of cashew production among smallholder farmers in Wenchi Municipality, Ghana.
- Data was collected from 140 farmers and analyzed using net present value, benefit-cost ratio, and internal rate of return to assess profitability over a 25-year period.
- The results showed that a 1-hectare cashew plantation has a positive net present value of GH¢260.82 ($343.16), a benefit-cost ratio of 1.13, and an internal rate of return of 43.85%, indicating that cashew production is profitable.
Technical Efficiency Differentials and Resource - Productivity Analysis amon...researchagriculture
- The study analyzed the technical efficiency and resource productivity of 96 smallholder soybean farmers in Benue State, Nigeria.
- Results from a transcendental logarithmic stochastic frontier model showed technical efficiencies varied widely from 0.254 to 0.999 with a mean of 0.718, indicating production was in stage III of irrational production.
- Land and fertilizer use was effective as confirmed by estimated coefficients between zero and one, depicting stage II production. Productivity could be enhanced by expanding farm size while maintaining labor to move from stage III to II.
Analysis of Technical, Economic and Allocative Efficiencies of CassavaProduct...IOSR Journals
This document analyzes the technical, economic, and allocative efficiencies of cassava production in Taraba State, Nigeria. It finds that the average technical, allocative, and economic efficiencies were 88.7%, 85.6%, and 82.5% respectively, indicating that farmers were relatively efficient. The major factors influencing cassava output were found to be farm size, family labor, hired labor, fertilizer use, household size, education level, and source of farm financing. To improve efficiency, the study recommends encouraging more intensive farming practices rather than continued expansion of land for cassava production and improving farmer knowledge through education and training.
11.technical efficiency of cowpea production in osun state, nigeriaAlexander Decker
This document analyzes the technical efficiency of cowpea farmers in Osun State, Nigeria. It finds that the mean technical efficiency level was 66%, meaning on average farmers were producing 66% of potential output. Factors like age, household size, and farming experience reduced technical inefficiency, while gender and education increased inefficiency. The study concludes there is room for improving efficiency to boost cowpea output through better use of available resources.
Technical efficiency of cowpea production in osun state, nigeriaAlexander Decker
- The study analyzed the technical efficiency of 200 cowpea farmers in Osun State, Nigeria using a
stochastic production frontier function.
- The results found the mean technical efficiency level was 66%, indicating room for improvement.
- Age, household size, and farming experience reduced technical inefficiency, while gender and education
increased inefficiency.
- The findings suggest cowpea farmers could increase output with existing inputs and technology by improving
their technical efficiency.
This document summarizes a study that estimates output supply and input demand elasticities for rice production in Sri Lanka using a restricted normalized translog profit function approach. The study analyzes four major rice producing districts from 1990-2012. The results show that changes in input and output prices significantly affect farmer profits, rice supply, and input use. Rice supply elasticity with respect to price is 0.5, while fertilizer demand elasticity with respect to price is -0.05 on average. Fertilizer subsidy increases both fertilizer demand and rice supply. Low substitution elasticity between labor and fertilizer indicates complementary relationships that synergistically increase production when applied together. Overall, higher output prices are essential for greater rice production according to
Productivity and resource use efficiency in tomato and watermelon farmsAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that examined productivity and resource use efficiency in tomato and watermelon farms in Ghana. The study found that the value of output for watermelon was higher than for tomato, due to differences in output prices and input costs. Analysis of factors affecting output value found that for tomato, land, labor and experience were significant, while for watermelon, land, non-agricultural activity and training were significant. Marginal values for land and labor were higher than market prices, indicating inefficient use of those resources for both crops. Fertilizer use for tomato and capital use for watermelon did not significantly impact output values, showing underutilization of those inputs. The results have implications for
11.productivity and resource use efficiency in tomato and watermelon farmsAlexander Decker
This study examines productivity and resource use efficiency in tomato and watermelon farms in Ghana. The value of output for watermelon farms was higher than for tomato farms, due to differences in output prices and input costs. It cost more to produce a hectare of tomato (GH¢704.59) than watermelon (GH¢509.03), but tomato yields per hectare were lower (GH¢480.37 vs GH¢1738.68 for watermelon). Factors like land, labor, and experience influenced tomato output value, while land, non-farm activity, and training impacted watermelon output. Marginal values for land and labor exceeded market prices, indicating inefficient resource use for both crops
- The study examined the profitability of cashew production among smallholder farmers in Wenchi Municipality, Ghana.
- Data was collected from 140 farmers and analyzed using net present value, benefit-cost ratio, and internal rate of return to assess profitability over a 25-year period.
- The results showed that a 1-hectare cashew plantation has a positive net present value of GH¢260.82 ($343.16), a benefit-cost ratio of 1.13, and an internal rate of return of 43.85%, indicating that cashew production is profitable.
Technical Efficiency Differentials and Resource - Productivity Analysis amon...researchagriculture
- The study analyzed the technical efficiency and resource productivity of 96 smallholder soybean farmers in Benue State, Nigeria.
- Results from a transcendental logarithmic stochastic frontier model showed technical efficiencies varied widely from 0.254 to 0.999 with a mean of 0.718, indicating production was in stage III of irrational production.
- Land and fertilizer use was effective as confirmed by estimated coefficients between zero and one, depicting stage II production. Productivity could be enhanced by expanding farm size while maintaining labor to move from stage III to II.
Analysis of Technical, Economic and Allocative Efficiencies of CassavaProduct...IOSR Journals
This document analyzes the technical, economic, and allocative efficiencies of cassava production in Taraba State, Nigeria. It finds that the average technical, allocative, and economic efficiencies were 88.7%, 85.6%, and 82.5% respectively, indicating that farmers were relatively efficient. The major factors influencing cassava output were found to be farm size, family labor, hired labor, fertilizer use, household size, education level, and source of farm financing. To improve efficiency, the study recommends encouraging more intensive farming practices rather than continued expansion of land for cassava production and improving farmer knowledge through education and training.
11.technical efficiency of cowpea production in osun state, nigeriaAlexander Decker
This document analyzes the technical efficiency of cowpea farmers in Osun State, Nigeria. It finds that the mean technical efficiency level was 66%, meaning on average farmers were producing 66% of potential output. Factors like age, household size, and farming experience reduced technical inefficiency, while gender and education increased inefficiency. The study concludes there is room for improving efficiency to boost cowpea output through better use of available resources.
Technical efficiency of cowpea production in osun state, nigeriaAlexander Decker
- The study analyzed the technical efficiency of 200 cowpea farmers in Osun State, Nigeria using a
stochastic production frontier function.
- The results found the mean technical efficiency level was 66%, indicating room for improvement.
- Age, household size, and farming experience reduced technical inefficiency, while gender and education
increased inefficiency.
- The findings suggest cowpea farmers could increase output with existing inputs and technology by improving
their technical efficiency.
This document summarizes a study that estimates output supply and input demand elasticities for rice production in Sri Lanka using a restricted normalized translog profit function approach. The study analyzes four major rice producing districts from 1990-2012. The results show that changes in input and output prices significantly affect farmer profits, rice supply, and input use. Rice supply elasticity with respect to price is 0.5, while fertilizer demand elasticity with respect to price is -0.05 on average. Fertilizer subsidy increases both fertilizer demand and rice supply. Low substitution elasticity between labor and fertilizer indicates complementary relationships that synergistically increase production when applied together. Overall, higher output prices are essential for greater rice production according to
The document analyzes the growth and instability of foodgrain production in Odisha, India over a 20-year period from 1995-1996 to 2014-2015 at the state and district level. It finds that while total foodgrain production experienced no growth in the first decade, the second decade saw impressive growth for all crops, especially other cereals which grew at 7.7% annually. At the district level, most districts also saw higher growth rates for paddy, other cereals, pulses and total foodgrains in the second decade compared to the first. However, some districts still experienced negative or low growth for certain crops. The study also found that instability or risk in foodgrain production decreased at the state level in the second
The law of demand expresses the functional relationship between price and quantity demanded.
Assumption of ‘ Ceteris Paribus’. A hypothetical assumption
If price of a commodity falls, the quantity demanded of it will rise and vice versa.
Inverse relationship between price and quantity
Other factors also play an important role.
Real world variables.
The indifference curve analysis has also been used to explain producer’s equilibrium, the problems of exchange, rationing, taxation, supply of labour, welfare economics and a host of other problems. Some of the important problems are explained below with the help of this technique.
(1) The Problem of Exchange:
With the help of indifference curve technique the problem of exchange between two individuals can be discussed. We take two consumers A and В who possess two goods X and Y in fixed quantities respectively. The problem is how can they exchange the goods possessed by each other. This can be solved by constructing an Edgeworth-Bowley box diagram on the basis of their preference maps and the given supplies of goods.
Sources of Risk and Management Strategies among Farmers in Rice Post Harvest ...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
— The study examined sources of risk and management strategies among farmers in rice post harvest management in Niger State. The research was undertaken in five Local Government Areas of Niger State, namely Katcha, Lavun, Paikoro, Shiroro and Wushishi. Data obtained for the research was achieved through questionnaires administered to 200 farmers selected using multi-stage sampling techniques. Descriptive statistics was used for data analysis. The study showed that rice post harvest management is carried out by subsistence farmer with average farm size of 2.7ha and are of active productive age of 31-50 years, who have 24 years farming experience in the rice post harvest management. The study revealed that farmers in the study area are affected by production risk, financial risk, human or personal risk, market or price risk and technological risk sources. The farmers have adopted prevention, mitigation and coping with risk as management strategies. Based on the findings the study recommended provision of credit facilities, rice post harvest machineries at subsidized rate, rural infrastructures, cooperative formation, use of extension officer and proper storage facilities.
Lower and/or inappropriate usages of improved agricultural technologies are among the major of causes for decline of production and productivity of wheat as compared to the potential in Ethiopia. This study aims to measure the status and extent of improved wheat technology adoption and identify its determinants among wheat producing smallholder farmers’ in Sekela district of West Gojjam zone of Ethiopia. Multi-stage sampling techniques used to select 204wheat producing farmers. The study primarily used collected primary data for 2017/18 production year using structured questionnaire. In order to analyze the data, both descriptive statistics and econometrics techniques such as double hurdle model are applied. The result shows that family size, availability of oxen and attitude towards risk affected positively adoption status of wheat production. While, farming experience, and off-farm income affected the extent of improved wheat variety adoption. On the other hand, farm size and cultivated farm land affected negatively the extent of improved wheat varieties adoption. Based on the result, the study recommended that the above factors should be considered both at stages in evaluating strategies aimed at promoting wheat production and productivity of the study area.
Status and potential of improving crop subChimeg DB
The document discusses the status and potential of improving Mongolia's crop sub-sector. It finds that while crops currently make up a small portion of agricultural output, the crop sub-sector has potential to address food security and poverty reduction. It faces challenges such as land degradation, lack of technology, and poor infrastructure. A SWOT analysis identifies strengths like available agricultural land but also weaknesses such as low productivity and threats such as climatic hazards.
economy of production and labor requirement in major fieldIJEAB
Economic analysis is found as the major aspect of measurement of efficiency of a farm. In most cases, this part is lagging in Nepalese farmers. With the objective to find benefit cost ratio of growing different crops, identify profitable crops and estimate labor requirement for cultivation, this case study was performed. The scope of this case study isit helps farmers in selecting the crop comparing the profit and labor available. This study was done as a case study in Kavre district, Nepal. From this research, potato (B: C=2.44) and onion (B: C=1.95) were found the most profitable crops and wheat and maize the least. Labor requirement for onion was highest 643 men/ha and wheat was the lowest i.e. 142 men/ha.
This document discusses the impacts of climate change on agriculture in the Dharwad district of Karnataka, India. It aims to study the association between cropping systems in the district over time. Key findings include:
- Global warming is projected to significantly impact agricultural conditions like temperature, precipitation, etc. Assessing climate change impacts can help adapt suitable farming practices.
- The study analyzed data on area and price of major crops (chilli, maize, groundnut, sorghum, cotton, soybean) in Dharwad district from 1995-2009.
- Results found that while crop areas saw some variation, cotton crop area was consistently first based on the Kendall's coefficient of concordance test
This document analyzes the growth and instability of oilseed production, with a focus on groundnut, across districts in Odisha, India over two time periods: 1995-1996 to 2004-2005 and 2005-2006 to 2014-2015. It finds that while groundnut production experienced overall negative growth in the first period, the second period saw remarkable improvement in growth rates for both groundnut and total oilseed production across most districts. However, 9 districts still saw negative growth rates for groundnut in the second period. Instability in production generally improved over the two periods as well, but 13 districts faced high instability levels in the second period that require targeted policy interventions. The study aims to identify clusters of districts by instability levels to
Economic Analysis of Chickpea Production in Damot Gale District, Southern Eth...Premier Publishers
The study examined determinants, resource use efficiency and profitability of smallholder chickpea production in Damot Gale district. The study employed multistage sampling to collect relevant primary data and used secondary data to substantiate the findings. A total of 146 producers selected from two administrative kebeles. Both qualitative and quantitative data were used for the study. Descriptive statistics, production function, resource use efficiency index and budgetary technique were the analytical methods employed in the study. The finding revealed that output of chickpea was influenced by plot size, fertilizer, pesticide, oxen days, level of education of the producer and the type of chickpea seed used positively and significantly. Resource use efficiency index of plot size (4.1), seed (1.3), pesticide (15.7) and oxen power (2.8) indicated the resources were underutilized while labor (-0.5) was the only over utilized resource. The study revealed the production is profitable even with resource use inefficiency. The average net revenue obtained by the typical chickpea producer was 20,377.87 birrs/ha with benefit cost ratio of 2.7. Shortage of land, pest and disease, high price of fertilizer, grain price fluctuation, high prices of improved seed and sudden drought were among important constraints of chickpea production in the study area. Thus, concerned bodies should work on policy relevant significant variables to improve the productivity, resource use efficiency and profitability of the production.
This document discusses migration, labor supply, wages and agriculture in rural Odisha, India. It finds that migration has impacted labor supply, real wage rates, productivity, output and cropping patterns in agriculture. Specifically:
- Migration of unskilled labor out of agriculture to other sectors has been a characteristic of economic development globally and in India. This has led to labor shortages and increasing wages in rural Odisha's agriculture sector.
- Studies show migration reduces farm labor participation and shifts cropping patterns to less labor-intensive crops. Higher wages from migration remittances compensate for lost farm output in some areas but reduce labor efforts and productivity in others.
- Minimum wage laws in India intended
Analysis of the Demand for Eggs in City Of MalangIOSR Journals
This research was aimed at determining the factors that influence the demand for eggs in the City of Malang and knowing the elasticity of demand in relation to the changes in price of the eggs in the City of Malang. Data collection was conducted from November 2012 to December 2012 from the consumers who purchase eggs at the traditional markets in the City of Malang (Dinoyo market and Pasar Besar market). The research method being employed in this study was a survey method. Sampling was conducted through purposive sampling method. The data collected included the primary data from 200 respondents through direct observations and interviews and the secondary data that were obtained from certain relevant agencies. Data were then analyzed by using multiple linear regressions in logarithms. Regression analysis result showed that the independent variables together significantly affected (P < 0.01) the dependent variable with a value of R ² was 0.731. Partially that each of the prices of the eggs, household income, the family members, and education, affected the demand for eggs in the City of Malang. The price elasticity of demand for eggs is elastic with a value of -2.824. The value of the income elasticity of demand for eggs was 0.022 which was inelastic, which means that eggs are normal goods or commodity. The value of cross-price elasticity of demand for eggs to broiler meat was -4.451, which means that the broiler meat are not as substitutes (commodity) for eggs of egg-laying chickens.
This document presents the objectives, methodology, findings and conclusions of a study on the impact of cold storage facilities on agriculture in Assam, India. The key findings are:
1) Cold storage capacity in Assam grew significantly from 2001-2011, reaching a total of 109,540.9 MT distributed across various districts.
2) During this period, the area, production and productivity of horticultural crops grew faster than food crops, with compound annual growth rates of 2.3%, 6.96% and 4.41% respectively for vegetables.
3) The production portfolio of farmers shifted somewhat towards horticulture as cold storage infrastructure increased, though cropping patterns were still determined more by local soil and location factors
Changing Patterns of General Crops in Nellore District, Andhra Pradeshijtsrd
Agricultural Geography is mainly concerned with the spatio temporal analysis of agricultural activities. The most striking characteristic feature of the present day agriculture is its great diversity of practice, products and organisation Grigg, D. 1969 . The bewildering diversity of agricultural practices and pattern of crop farming is due to diversity in topographical, agro climatic, cultural, socio economic and technological conditions Ramanaiah, Y.V., 1984 . A systematic study of crop land relationship not only helps agricultural regionalisation but also provides a scientific basis for land resource allocation to various agricultural crops and planning for maximum productivity Singh and Singh, 1970 . The spatial patterns and dynamics of cropland utilisation in agriculture have received due importance in the field of agricultural geography. The study of cropping pattern or crop land relationship helps to develop typology and taxonomy of agriculture. Hence in the present study an endeavour is made to study the changing spatial patterns of general crops in Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh for two trienniums i.e., 1987 90 and 2012 15 taking Mandal as unit. N. Bala Ankanna | A. Krishna Kumari "Changing Patterns of General Crops in Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-6 , October 2019, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd28055.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/humanities-and-the-arts/geography/28055/changing-patterns-of-general-crops-in-nellore-district-andhra-pradesh/n-bala-ankanna
Efficiency and Competitiveness of Corn Farming in Sumbawa Regencyiosrjce
IOSR Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Science (IOSR-JAVS) is a double blind peer reviewed International Journal edited by the International Organization of Scientific Research (IOSR). The journal provides a common forum where all aspects of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences are presented. The journal invites original papers, review articles, technical reports and short communications containing new insight into any aspect Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences that are not published or not being considered for publication elsewhere.
An effect of support price toward the growth rate of sugarcane production: Ev...Premier Publishers
This paper focuses on an effect of support price toward the growth rate of Sugarcane production: Evidence from Sindh and Punjab provinces of Pakistan by using secondary time series data from the period of 1990-91 to 2013-14. Growth rate model and Cobb-Douglas production function was applied to analyze the data. Every year government of Pakistan announced support price for sugarcane crop, the aimed of announcing supporting price to save the sugarcane producers for achieving the target of sugar production. In Punjab province, since 1990-91 to 2013-14 total growth rate of sugarcane in area, production and yield were increased 2.24%, 4.67% and 2.33% respectively. However, in Sindh Province total growth rate was calculated 1.42% for area, 3.35 for production and 1.78% for yield respectively. The results of regression analysis indicate that the both province`s area and support price have significant relationship with production. However its necessary to increase support price if the support price increase than the farmers take keen interest for cultivating more area under sugarcane with use of modern technologies and also increase the applications of inputs, so that the government of Pakistan should increase support price for promoting the sugarcane production both Sindh and Punjab provinces of Pakistan.
This document discusses factors influencing maize production and marketing in Tirupur district, India. It begins with an introduction to maize as an important crop worldwide and in India. It then states the objective of the study is to analyze factors influencing maize production and marketing among farmers in the study area. The methodology section describes how primary and secondary data was collected through surveys of 300 maize farmers. Factor analysis was conducted to identify underlying factors. Three key factors were identified accounting for 62.87% of variance: 1) infrastructure and agricultural services, 2) inputs, and 3) marketing and price stability. The study concludes that crop insurance should be extended to all farmers and losses from high moisture content should be reduced.
The efficiency of maize farming in malawi (tchale, 2007)mirarif
This document analyzes the technical efficiency of smallholder maize farmers in Malawi. It measures their efficiency using a bootstrapped translog stochastic frontier model and examines how factors like soil fertility management, market access, credit, and extension services influence efficiency. The results show that farmers using integrated soil fertility options have higher efficiency than those relying only on inorganic fertilizer. Access to inputs, outputs, credit, and extension services also significantly impact smallholders' technical efficiency. The study aims to provide information to help design policies that can increase food production among smallholders in Malawi.
Visual.ly is an ecosystem for creating, sharing, and exploring data visualizations. The main website provides curated content to entertain and engage audiences in browsing data stories. Good data stories combine compelling narratives with visualizations that illuminate the data rather than just presenting it. Crafting such stories requires knowing the audience, identifying possible narratives, and balancing both with the visualized data. The document discusses strategies for effectively distributing data stories and examples of Visual.ly projects that balance audience interests, narrative possibilities, and supportive data.
Ron Mueck es un escultor australiano especializado en crear figuras humanas hiperrealistas a gran escala mediante el modelado. Algunas de sus obras más destacadas incluyen Mujer embarazada de 1997, que muestra una mujer exhausta y vulnerable en un detallado retrato de la maternidad, Hombre grande de 1998 que representa la soledad humana, y Chico de 1999 que mide casi 5 metros de altura.
The document analyzes the growth and instability of foodgrain production in Odisha, India over a 20-year period from 1995-1996 to 2014-2015 at the state and district level. It finds that while total foodgrain production experienced no growth in the first decade, the second decade saw impressive growth for all crops, especially other cereals which grew at 7.7% annually. At the district level, most districts also saw higher growth rates for paddy, other cereals, pulses and total foodgrains in the second decade compared to the first. However, some districts still experienced negative or low growth for certain crops. The study also found that instability or risk in foodgrain production decreased at the state level in the second
The law of demand expresses the functional relationship between price and quantity demanded.
Assumption of ‘ Ceteris Paribus’. A hypothetical assumption
If price of a commodity falls, the quantity demanded of it will rise and vice versa.
Inverse relationship between price and quantity
Other factors also play an important role.
Real world variables.
The indifference curve analysis has also been used to explain producer’s equilibrium, the problems of exchange, rationing, taxation, supply of labour, welfare economics and a host of other problems. Some of the important problems are explained below with the help of this technique.
(1) The Problem of Exchange:
With the help of indifference curve technique the problem of exchange between two individuals can be discussed. We take two consumers A and В who possess two goods X and Y in fixed quantities respectively. The problem is how can they exchange the goods possessed by each other. This can be solved by constructing an Edgeworth-Bowley box diagram on the basis of their preference maps and the given supplies of goods.
Sources of Risk and Management Strategies among Farmers in Rice Post Harvest ...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
— The study examined sources of risk and management strategies among farmers in rice post harvest management in Niger State. The research was undertaken in five Local Government Areas of Niger State, namely Katcha, Lavun, Paikoro, Shiroro and Wushishi. Data obtained for the research was achieved through questionnaires administered to 200 farmers selected using multi-stage sampling techniques. Descriptive statistics was used for data analysis. The study showed that rice post harvest management is carried out by subsistence farmer with average farm size of 2.7ha and are of active productive age of 31-50 years, who have 24 years farming experience in the rice post harvest management. The study revealed that farmers in the study area are affected by production risk, financial risk, human or personal risk, market or price risk and technological risk sources. The farmers have adopted prevention, mitigation and coping with risk as management strategies. Based on the findings the study recommended provision of credit facilities, rice post harvest machineries at subsidized rate, rural infrastructures, cooperative formation, use of extension officer and proper storage facilities.
Lower and/or inappropriate usages of improved agricultural technologies are among the major of causes for decline of production and productivity of wheat as compared to the potential in Ethiopia. This study aims to measure the status and extent of improved wheat technology adoption and identify its determinants among wheat producing smallholder farmers’ in Sekela district of West Gojjam zone of Ethiopia. Multi-stage sampling techniques used to select 204wheat producing farmers. The study primarily used collected primary data for 2017/18 production year using structured questionnaire. In order to analyze the data, both descriptive statistics and econometrics techniques such as double hurdle model are applied. The result shows that family size, availability of oxen and attitude towards risk affected positively adoption status of wheat production. While, farming experience, and off-farm income affected the extent of improved wheat variety adoption. On the other hand, farm size and cultivated farm land affected negatively the extent of improved wheat varieties adoption. Based on the result, the study recommended that the above factors should be considered both at stages in evaluating strategies aimed at promoting wheat production and productivity of the study area.
Status and potential of improving crop subChimeg DB
The document discusses the status and potential of improving Mongolia's crop sub-sector. It finds that while crops currently make up a small portion of agricultural output, the crop sub-sector has potential to address food security and poverty reduction. It faces challenges such as land degradation, lack of technology, and poor infrastructure. A SWOT analysis identifies strengths like available agricultural land but also weaknesses such as low productivity and threats such as climatic hazards.
economy of production and labor requirement in major fieldIJEAB
Economic analysis is found as the major aspect of measurement of efficiency of a farm. In most cases, this part is lagging in Nepalese farmers. With the objective to find benefit cost ratio of growing different crops, identify profitable crops and estimate labor requirement for cultivation, this case study was performed. The scope of this case study isit helps farmers in selecting the crop comparing the profit and labor available. This study was done as a case study in Kavre district, Nepal. From this research, potato (B: C=2.44) and onion (B: C=1.95) were found the most profitable crops and wheat and maize the least. Labor requirement for onion was highest 643 men/ha and wheat was the lowest i.e. 142 men/ha.
This document discusses the impacts of climate change on agriculture in the Dharwad district of Karnataka, India. It aims to study the association between cropping systems in the district over time. Key findings include:
- Global warming is projected to significantly impact agricultural conditions like temperature, precipitation, etc. Assessing climate change impacts can help adapt suitable farming practices.
- The study analyzed data on area and price of major crops (chilli, maize, groundnut, sorghum, cotton, soybean) in Dharwad district from 1995-2009.
- Results found that while crop areas saw some variation, cotton crop area was consistently first based on the Kendall's coefficient of concordance test
This document analyzes the growth and instability of oilseed production, with a focus on groundnut, across districts in Odisha, India over two time periods: 1995-1996 to 2004-2005 and 2005-2006 to 2014-2015. It finds that while groundnut production experienced overall negative growth in the first period, the second period saw remarkable improvement in growth rates for both groundnut and total oilseed production across most districts. However, 9 districts still saw negative growth rates for groundnut in the second period. Instability in production generally improved over the two periods as well, but 13 districts faced high instability levels in the second period that require targeted policy interventions. The study aims to identify clusters of districts by instability levels to
Economic Analysis of Chickpea Production in Damot Gale District, Southern Eth...Premier Publishers
The study examined determinants, resource use efficiency and profitability of smallholder chickpea production in Damot Gale district. The study employed multistage sampling to collect relevant primary data and used secondary data to substantiate the findings. A total of 146 producers selected from two administrative kebeles. Both qualitative and quantitative data were used for the study. Descriptive statistics, production function, resource use efficiency index and budgetary technique were the analytical methods employed in the study. The finding revealed that output of chickpea was influenced by plot size, fertilizer, pesticide, oxen days, level of education of the producer and the type of chickpea seed used positively and significantly. Resource use efficiency index of plot size (4.1), seed (1.3), pesticide (15.7) and oxen power (2.8) indicated the resources were underutilized while labor (-0.5) was the only over utilized resource. The study revealed the production is profitable even with resource use inefficiency. The average net revenue obtained by the typical chickpea producer was 20,377.87 birrs/ha with benefit cost ratio of 2.7. Shortage of land, pest and disease, high price of fertilizer, grain price fluctuation, high prices of improved seed and sudden drought were among important constraints of chickpea production in the study area. Thus, concerned bodies should work on policy relevant significant variables to improve the productivity, resource use efficiency and profitability of the production.
This document discusses migration, labor supply, wages and agriculture in rural Odisha, India. It finds that migration has impacted labor supply, real wage rates, productivity, output and cropping patterns in agriculture. Specifically:
- Migration of unskilled labor out of agriculture to other sectors has been a characteristic of economic development globally and in India. This has led to labor shortages and increasing wages in rural Odisha's agriculture sector.
- Studies show migration reduces farm labor participation and shifts cropping patterns to less labor-intensive crops. Higher wages from migration remittances compensate for lost farm output in some areas but reduce labor efforts and productivity in others.
- Minimum wage laws in India intended
Analysis of the Demand for Eggs in City Of MalangIOSR Journals
This research was aimed at determining the factors that influence the demand for eggs in the City of Malang and knowing the elasticity of demand in relation to the changes in price of the eggs in the City of Malang. Data collection was conducted from November 2012 to December 2012 from the consumers who purchase eggs at the traditional markets in the City of Malang (Dinoyo market and Pasar Besar market). The research method being employed in this study was a survey method. Sampling was conducted through purposive sampling method. The data collected included the primary data from 200 respondents through direct observations and interviews and the secondary data that were obtained from certain relevant agencies. Data were then analyzed by using multiple linear regressions in logarithms. Regression analysis result showed that the independent variables together significantly affected (P < 0.01) the dependent variable with a value of R ² was 0.731. Partially that each of the prices of the eggs, household income, the family members, and education, affected the demand for eggs in the City of Malang. The price elasticity of demand for eggs is elastic with a value of -2.824. The value of the income elasticity of demand for eggs was 0.022 which was inelastic, which means that eggs are normal goods or commodity. The value of cross-price elasticity of demand for eggs to broiler meat was -4.451, which means that the broiler meat are not as substitutes (commodity) for eggs of egg-laying chickens.
This document presents the objectives, methodology, findings and conclusions of a study on the impact of cold storage facilities on agriculture in Assam, India. The key findings are:
1) Cold storage capacity in Assam grew significantly from 2001-2011, reaching a total of 109,540.9 MT distributed across various districts.
2) During this period, the area, production and productivity of horticultural crops grew faster than food crops, with compound annual growth rates of 2.3%, 6.96% and 4.41% respectively for vegetables.
3) The production portfolio of farmers shifted somewhat towards horticulture as cold storage infrastructure increased, though cropping patterns were still determined more by local soil and location factors
Changing Patterns of General Crops in Nellore District, Andhra Pradeshijtsrd
Agricultural Geography is mainly concerned with the spatio temporal analysis of agricultural activities. The most striking characteristic feature of the present day agriculture is its great diversity of practice, products and organisation Grigg, D. 1969 . The bewildering diversity of agricultural practices and pattern of crop farming is due to diversity in topographical, agro climatic, cultural, socio economic and technological conditions Ramanaiah, Y.V., 1984 . A systematic study of crop land relationship not only helps agricultural regionalisation but also provides a scientific basis for land resource allocation to various agricultural crops and planning for maximum productivity Singh and Singh, 1970 . The spatial patterns and dynamics of cropland utilisation in agriculture have received due importance in the field of agricultural geography. The study of cropping pattern or crop land relationship helps to develop typology and taxonomy of agriculture. Hence in the present study an endeavour is made to study the changing spatial patterns of general crops in Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh for two trienniums i.e., 1987 90 and 2012 15 taking Mandal as unit. N. Bala Ankanna | A. Krishna Kumari "Changing Patterns of General Crops in Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-6 , October 2019, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd28055.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/humanities-and-the-arts/geography/28055/changing-patterns-of-general-crops-in-nellore-district-andhra-pradesh/n-bala-ankanna
Efficiency and Competitiveness of Corn Farming in Sumbawa Regencyiosrjce
IOSR Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Science (IOSR-JAVS) is a double blind peer reviewed International Journal edited by the International Organization of Scientific Research (IOSR). The journal provides a common forum where all aspects of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences are presented. The journal invites original papers, review articles, technical reports and short communications containing new insight into any aspect Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences that are not published or not being considered for publication elsewhere.
An effect of support price toward the growth rate of sugarcane production: Ev...Premier Publishers
This paper focuses on an effect of support price toward the growth rate of Sugarcane production: Evidence from Sindh and Punjab provinces of Pakistan by using secondary time series data from the period of 1990-91 to 2013-14. Growth rate model and Cobb-Douglas production function was applied to analyze the data. Every year government of Pakistan announced support price for sugarcane crop, the aimed of announcing supporting price to save the sugarcane producers for achieving the target of sugar production. In Punjab province, since 1990-91 to 2013-14 total growth rate of sugarcane in area, production and yield were increased 2.24%, 4.67% and 2.33% respectively. However, in Sindh Province total growth rate was calculated 1.42% for area, 3.35 for production and 1.78% for yield respectively. The results of regression analysis indicate that the both province`s area and support price have significant relationship with production. However its necessary to increase support price if the support price increase than the farmers take keen interest for cultivating more area under sugarcane with use of modern technologies and also increase the applications of inputs, so that the government of Pakistan should increase support price for promoting the sugarcane production both Sindh and Punjab provinces of Pakistan.
This document discusses factors influencing maize production and marketing in Tirupur district, India. It begins with an introduction to maize as an important crop worldwide and in India. It then states the objective of the study is to analyze factors influencing maize production and marketing among farmers in the study area. The methodology section describes how primary and secondary data was collected through surveys of 300 maize farmers. Factor analysis was conducted to identify underlying factors. Three key factors were identified accounting for 62.87% of variance: 1) infrastructure and agricultural services, 2) inputs, and 3) marketing and price stability. The study concludes that crop insurance should be extended to all farmers and losses from high moisture content should be reduced.
The efficiency of maize farming in malawi (tchale, 2007)mirarif
This document analyzes the technical efficiency of smallholder maize farmers in Malawi. It measures their efficiency using a bootstrapped translog stochastic frontier model and examines how factors like soil fertility management, market access, credit, and extension services influence efficiency. The results show that farmers using integrated soil fertility options have higher efficiency than those relying only on inorganic fertilizer. Access to inputs, outputs, credit, and extension services also significantly impact smallholders' technical efficiency. The study aims to provide information to help design policies that can increase food production among smallholders in Malawi.
Visual.ly is an ecosystem for creating, sharing, and exploring data visualizations. The main website provides curated content to entertain and engage audiences in browsing data stories. Good data stories combine compelling narratives with visualizations that illuminate the data rather than just presenting it. Crafting such stories requires knowing the audience, identifying possible narratives, and balancing both with the visualized data. The document discusses strategies for effectively distributing data stories and examples of Visual.ly projects that balance audience interests, narrative possibilities, and supportive data.
Ron Mueck es un escultor australiano especializado en crear figuras humanas hiperrealistas a gran escala mediante el modelado. Algunas de sus obras más destacadas incluyen Mujer embarazada de 1997, que muestra una mujer exhausta y vulnerable en un detallado retrato de la maternidad, Hombre grande de 1998 que representa la soledad humana, y Chico de 1999 que mide casi 5 metros de altura.
The document provides information on visa requirements, immigration procedures, taxation obligations, and support services available for expatriates taking assignments in Ghana through Von Essen Consulting, including details on different types of visas and permits, income tax bands, options for contracts and payments, and assistance with banking, accommodation, and other local services. Employed consultants will hold direct employment contracts with Von Essen's local partner in Ghana.
This document describes a "Raindrop music" project from 2009. It uses sensors like capacitive, infrared, and electric short circuit sensors to detect raindrops and convert them into music notes and sounds. The project senses raindrops and displays corresponding music and sounds.
This document provides instructions for a GCSE Photography unit assignment to produce a panoramic photogram strip showing a transition between different states or forms. Students are asked to make test strips at different apertures and exposure times, and then create a final 4" by 16" photogram strip mounted in a window that transitions between one state to another, such as sharp to soft focus, using provided example images or those found on a specified Flickr site.
An analysis of technical efficiency of rice farmers in ahero irrigation schem...Alexander Decker
This document analyzes the technical efficiency of rice farmers in Ahero Irrigation Scheme, Kenya. It begins with background on rice production and consumption trends in Kenya. Rice consumption has been increasing at 12% annually compared to 4% for wheat and 1% for maize. However, production has not kept pace with demand, resulting in a large import deficit. The study estimates a stochastic Cobb-Douglas production function to determine technical efficiency and its determinants. It finds the technical efficiency of rice farmers is 0.82. Gender, farming experience, income level, and distance to market significantly influence technical efficiency. The study recommends policies to improve input affordability and farm incomes, as well as transport infrastructure, to increase efficiency of rice
Technical efficiency in agriculture in ghana analyses of determining factorsAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a journal article that estimates technical efficiency in Ghana's agricultural sector from 1976-2007 and investigates factors that influence the estimated efficiencies. The study finds decreasing returns to scale and that land is negatively related to output while fertilizer and machinery are positively related. The estimated level of inefficiency is 21% with decreasing returns to scale. No hypothesized variables for explaining technical efficiency were found to be statistically significant. The study calls for decreasing land use relative to other inputs to improve efficiency.
Technical efficiency in agriculture in ghana analyses of determining factorsAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that estimated technical efficiency in Ghana's agricultural sector from 1976-2007 and investigated factors that influence those estimates of technical efficiency. The study found decreasing returns to scale in Ghana's agriculture, with land being negatively inelastic indicating overuse. Fertilizer and machinery like tractors had a positive relationship with output. The estimated level of inefficiency was 21% with decreasing returns to scale. None of the hypothesized variables for explaining technical efficiency, like education levels or farm size, were found to be statistically significant determinants. This suggests those variables may not appropriately explain technical efficiency in Ghana and other potential explanatory variables should be explored.
11.[1 10]technical efficiency in agriculture in ghana analyses of determining...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that estimated technical efficiency in Ghana's agricultural sector from 1976-2007 and investigated factors that influence the estimates. The key findings were:
1) Ghana's agriculture exhibited decreasing returns to scale and overuse of land relative to other inputs like fertilizer and machinery.
2) Technical efficiency in Ghana's agriculture was estimated to be 79%, meaning there is a 21% gap between actual and potential output.
3) None of the hypothesized variables tested (e.g. education, infrastructure) were found to statistically explain the technical efficiency estimates.
11.[1 10]technical efficiency in agriculture in ghana analyses of determining...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that estimated technical efficiency in Ghana's agricultural sector from 1976-2007 and investigated factors that influence the estimates. The key findings were:
1) Ghana's agriculture exhibited decreasing returns to scale and overuse of land relative to other inputs like fertilizer and machinery.
2) Technical efficiency in Ghana's agriculture was estimated to be 79%, meaning there is a 21% gap between actual and potential output.
3) None of the hypothesized variables tested (e.g. education, infrastructure) were found to statistically explain the technical efficiency estimates.
11.technical efficiency in agriculture in ghana analyses of determining factorsAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that estimated technical efficiency in Ghana's agricultural sector from 1976-2007 and investigated factors that influence the estimates. The key findings were:
1) Ghana's agriculture exhibited decreasing returns to scale and overuse of land relative to other inputs like fertilizer and machinery.
2) Technical efficiency in Ghana's agriculture was estimated to be 79%, meaning there is a 21% gap between actual and potential output.
3) None of the hypothesized variables tested (e.g. education, infrastructure) were found to statistically explain the technical efficiency estimates.
A model application to assess resource use efficiency for maize production in...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that assessed resource use efficiency for maize production in soils in
northcentral Nigeria. Soil and socioeconomic data were collected from 90 farmers in 3 communities. Soil
properties varied within locations but soil types were similar. Regression analysis found a quadratic model best fit
the data, with yield increasing based on optimal levels of inputs. Returns to scale were decreasing for all inputs
except fertilizer. The study concluded more efficient use of inputs could increase production profits and
recommended educating farmers on innovative technologies for sustainable land management and crop
production.
This document summarizes a study on the profitability and production efficiency of small-scale maize production in Niger State, Nigeria. The study found that maize production was profitable, with an average net farm income of 48,109 Naira per hectare. Production costs were 77.9% of total costs, with labor as the largest cost. The production efficiency index of 2.50 indicated that returns exceeded costs by 150%, showing profitability. While profitable, the study recommended increasing farm size and production to enhance profits further. Improving access to farmland, education, credit, and extension services were also suggested to improve profitability of small-scale maize production in the area.
Technical Efficiency of Soya Beans Production in Mubi North Local Government ...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
— The study was conducted to evaluate the technical efficiency of soya bean production in Mubi North Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Nigeria. The objective of the study was to examine the inputs and output relationship of soya bean production in the study area. A multi stage random sampling techniques was used to select 80 respondents in the study area who were noted for soya beans production. Primary data were collected from the respondents with the aid of structured questionnaire and were analyzed using stochastic frontier function. It was therefore recommended that inputs such as seeds, fertilizers and agrochemicals which were the major inputs that increase the output of soya bean production in the study area should be made available on time, in right amounts and at affordable prices to the farmer's stakeholders in agriculture. Proper orientation and knowledge should be given to people willing to go into the cultivation of soya beans on the appropriate time of planting. Extension services should also be rendered effectively.
Analysis of Resource Use Efficiency in Small-Scale Maize Production in Tafawa...IOSRJAVS
This paper analyzed the resource-use efficiency of small-scale Maize production in Tafawa-Balewa local government area of Bauchi State. Data were collected from a sample of 120 Maize farmers selected through multi-stage sampling procedure using questionnaire and analyzed using simple descriptive statistics, double-log function and marginal value productivity analysis. The result showed that 90.17% had formal education; 51.67% were males; 90.17% were between the ages of 21-50. Majority 72.50% were married. In terms of farming experience, majority (86.67%) of the respondent had farming experience between 5-20 years. 75.00% had no contact with extension. The double-log function gave the best fit with Adjusted R2 of 81.16%. Production inputs such as seed, fertilizer, labour affected output significantly. Maize production in the study area has an increasing return to scale from the sum of elasticity of production (1.747). Seed and fertilizer were underutilized in Maize production, whereas labour was over used. The major problem confronting the farmers include high cost of inputs (77.50%); Untimely disbursement of credit/inputs (62.50; inadequate extension services (59.17); unstable price (41.67%); draught (33.33%), inadequate credit facilities (31.67%) etc. Profit could be enhanced by increasing the quantity used of seed and fertilizer inputs, its timely supply. Labour should be reduced to optimum level for increase output and total revenue respectively. It is also recommended that extension education and financial support to farmers be improved to allow them increase output and total revenue. There is need for adjustment in resource use in order to improve farm profit at this level of technology used by Maize farmers in the study area.
Analysis of Resource Use Efficiency in Small-Scale Maize Production in Tafawa...IOSRJAVS
his paper analyzed the resource-use efficiency of small-scale Maize production in Tafawa-Balewa local government area of Bauchi State. Data were collected from a sample of 120 Maize farmers selected through multi-stage sampling procedure using questionnaire and analyzed using simple descriptive statistics, double-log function and marginal value productivity analysis. The result showed that 90.17% had formal education; 51.67% were males; 90.17% were between the ages of 21-50. Majority 72.50% were married. In terms of farming experience, majority (86.67%) of the respondent had farming experience between 5-20 years. 75.00% had no contact with extension. The double-log function gave the best fit with Adjusted R2 of 81.16%. Production inputs such as seed, fertilizer, labour affected output significantly. Maize production in the study area has an increasing return to scale from the sum of elasticity of production (1.747). Seed and fertilizer were underutilized in Maize production, whereas labour was over used. The major problem confronting the farmers include high cost of inputs (77.50%); Untimely disbursement of credit/inputs (62.50; inadequate extension services (59.17); unstable price (41.67%); draught (33.33%), inadequate credit facilities (31.67%) etc. Profit could be enhanced by increasing the quantity used of seed and fertilizer inputs, its timely supply. Labour should be reduced to optimum level for increase output and total revenue respectively. It is also recommended that extension education and financial support to farmers be improved to allow them increase output and total revenue. There is need for adjustment in resource use in order to improve farm profit at this level of technology used by Maize farmers in the study area.
1. The document analyzes the productivity of bakery firms in Khulna, Bangladesh using a Cobb-Douglas production function model. It finds evidence of increasing returns to scale, meaning output increases more than proportionately as inputs increase.
2. The study finds that a 1% increase in the key input of raw materials leads to a 0.775% increase in output, showing raw materials have a significant impact on productivity.
3. The findings suggest bakery firms in the region experience availability of cheap inputs, which has allowed the industry to expand. Overall productivity in the firms could be further increased by emphasizing wealth maximization over profit maximization and improving access to inputs.
Advancement in agricultural technologies is seen to result in the shift in production functions. The study was conducted to establish the impact of the improved rice variety on productivity in the Ejura-Sekyedumase and Atebubu-Amantin Municipalities of Ghana. The study was based on the survey of 208 rice farmers using a three-stage stratified sampling method. The study used a structured questionnaire to collect inputoutput data from the rice farmers. Data were analysed using the Cobb-Douglas production function. The study found that the technical change associated with the introduction of the improved rice variety was of the non-neutral type. Further, the adoption of the improved rice variety has increased rice productivity by about 46% for the adopters. The main determinants of productivity for the adopters were seed, land, fertiliser, herbicide, and education. Productivity among the non-adopters was positively influenced by seed, land, herbicide, and fertiliser. The study concluded that the improved rice variety has superior yield advantage. The study recommends for the simultaneous promotion of improved rice varieties and their recommended inputs to increase rice productivity.
Farmers’ assessment of the government spraying program in ghanaAlexander Decker
This document assesses a government spraying program in Ghana that aims to eradicate cocoa pests and diseases. It conducted interviews with 120 cocoa farmers in 6 communities. The study found that 14.2% of farmers had never benefited from the spraying program. Additionally, 68.3% of farmers expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of spraying personnel. The spraying program did not follow the recommended regime of spraying farms 4 times per year. Inadequate supply of chemicals and personnel were identified as the most critical constraints to the program. The study recommends timely provision of chemicals and improved supervision of spraying personnel.
Comparative economic analysis of hybrid vs conventional sunflowersanaullah noonari
Abstract
Sunflower is one of the four most important annual crops in the world grown for edible oil. In Pakistan although
it was introduced as an oilseed crop 40 years back but its expansion in acreage and production is fluctuating due
to various production and socioeconomic constraints. The comparison of total income gained, total costs
associated and profit gained from two sunflower activities. Higher income (155401 Rs.), higher costs (98677
Rs.) and higher profits (56724 Rs.) were gained in sowing hybrid sunflower but conventional sunflower gave
poor results lower income (75372 Rs.). Lower costs (57939 Rs.) and very low profits (17433 Rs.) were recorded.
The question of higher cost of cultivation existed, and was confirmed, mainly because of high seed cost and not
corresponding reduction in pesticide cost.
Keywords: Sunflower, edible oil, conventional, hybrid, Pakistan
Effects of soil erosion on technical efficiency of cassava farmers in enu...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study on the effects of soil erosion on the technical efficiency of cassava farmers in Enugu State, Nigeria. The study found that farmers operating on eroded farms had significantly lower mean technical efficiency (56%) than those on non-eroded farms (77%). Farm size, labor, cassava cuttings, and fertilizer use significantly increased technical efficiency on non-eroded farms, while only fertilizer affected efficiency on eroded farms. Education level, age, household size, and extension contact were significant inefficiency factors on non-eroded farms, while education and age influenced inefficiency on eroded farms. The results indicate soil erosion negatively impacts cassava farmers' ability to efficiently use resources.
Effects of soil erosion on technical efficiency of cassava farmers in enu...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study on the effects of soil erosion on the technical efficiency of cassava farmers in Enugu State, Nigeria. The study found that farmers operating on eroded farms had significantly lower mean technical efficiency (56%) than those on non-eroded farms (77%). Farm size, labor, cassava cuttings, and fertilizer use significantly increased technical efficiency on non-eroded farms, while only fertilizer affected efficiency on eroded farms. Education level, age, household size, and extension contact were significant inefficiency factors on non-eroded farms, while education and age influenced inefficiency on eroded farms. The results indicate soil erosion negatively impacts cassava farmers' ability to efficiently use resources.
Effect of Manual Screw Press Utilization on Output, Income, and Standard of L...BRNSS Publication Hub
The study assessed the effect of utilization of manual screw press for gari production on output, income, and standard of living of gari processors in four local government areas across the agricultural development program zones in Kwara state, Nigeria. Using multistage sampling technique and a semi-structured questionnaire as instrument, data for the study were collected from a sample of 384 gari processors who use the screw press in the state. Descriptive statistics, namely frequency count, percentages, and mean were used for analysis of generated field data. The study revealed a 35.5% increase in gari production was achieved with the utilization of the screw press for gari production. Furthermore, average annual income from gari processing after utilization went from N809662 to N1249375; 35.19% increase. Furthermore, average household properties owned by processors went from 2.31 before utilization to 3.24 after utilization which is an increase of 28.7%. The study concluded that utilization of manual screw press by gari producers in Kwara state has led to increased output, a higher income, and a better standard of living for gari producers. These increases would most probably lead to increase in their probability of escaping poverty, and in the long run, would lead to sustainable food security for the country.
Effect of Manual Screw Press Utilization on Output, Income, and Standard of L...BRNSS Publication Hub
The study assessed the effect of utilization of manual screw press for gari production on output, income,
and standard of living of gari processors in four local government areas across the agricultural development
program zones in Kwara state, Nigeria. Using multistage sampling technique and a semi-structured
questionnaire as instrument, data for the study were collected from a sample of 384 gari processors who
use the screw press in the state. Descriptive statistics, namely frequency count, percentages, and mean
were used for analysis of generated field data. The study revealed a 35.5% increase in gari production
was achieved with the utilization of the screw press for gari production. Furthermore, average annual
income from gari processing after utilization went from N809662 to N1249375; 35.19% increase.
Furthermore, average household properties owned by processors went from 2.31 before utilization to
3.24 after utilization which is an increase of 28.7%. The study concluded that utilization of manual screw
press by gari producers in Kwara state has led to increased output, a higher income, and a better standard
of living for gari producers. These increases would most probably lead to increase in their probability of
escaping poverty, and in the long run, would lead to sustainable food security for the country.
Similar to Determinants of seed cotton output evidence from the northern region of ghana (20)
Abnormalities of hormones and inflammatory cytokines in women affected with p...Alexander Decker
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have elevated levels of hormones like luteinizing hormone and testosterone, as well as higher levels of insulin and insulin resistance compared to healthy women. They also have increased levels of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and leptin. This study found these abnormalities in the hormones and inflammatory cytokines of women with PCOS ages 23-40, indicating that hormone imbalances associated with insulin resistance and elevated inflammatory markers may worsen infertility in women with PCOS.
A usability evaluation framework for b2 c e commerce websitesAlexander Decker
This document presents a framework for evaluating the usability of B2C e-commerce websites. It involves user testing methods like usability testing and interviews to identify usability problems in areas like navigation, design, purchasing processes, and customer service. The framework specifies goals for the evaluation, determines which website aspects to evaluate, and identifies target users. It then describes collecting data through user testing and analyzing the results to identify usability problems and suggest improvements.
A universal model for managing the marketing executives in nigerian banksAlexander Decker
This document discusses a study that aimed to synthesize motivation theories into a universal model for managing marketing executives in Nigerian banks. The study was guided by Maslow and McGregor's theories. A sample of 303 marketing executives was used. The results showed that managers will be most effective at motivating marketing executives if they consider individual needs and create challenging but attainable goals. The emerged model suggests managers should provide job satisfaction by tailoring assignments to abilities and monitoring performance with feedback. This addresses confusion faced by Nigerian bank managers in determining effective motivation strategies.
A unique common fixed point theorems in generalized dAlexander Decker
This document presents definitions and properties related to generalized D*-metric spaces and establishes some common fixed point theorems for contractive type mappings in these spaces. It begins by introducing D*-metric spaces and generalized D*-metric spaces, defines concepts like convergence and Cauchy sequences. It presents lemmas showing the uniqueness of limits in these spaces and the equivalence of different definitions of convergence. The goal of the paper is then stated as obtaining a unique common fixed point theorem for generalized D*-metric spaces.
A trends of salmonella and antibiotic resistanceAlexander Decker
This document provides a review of trends in Salmonella and antibiotic resistance. It begins with an introduction to Salmonella as a facultative anaerobe that causes nontyphoidal salmonellosis. The emergence of antimicrobial-resistant Salmonella is then discussed. The document proceeds to cover the historical perspective and classification of Salmonella, definitions of antimicrobials and antibiotic resistance, and mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella including modification or destruction of antimicrobial agents, efflux pumps, modification of antibiotic targets, and decreased membrane permeability. Specific resistance mechanisms are discussed for several classes of antimicrobials.
A transformational generative approach towards understanding al-istifhamAlexander Decker
This document discusses a transformational-generative approach to understanding Al-Istifham, which refers to interrogative sentences in Arabic. It begins with an introduction to the origin and development of Arabic grammar. The paper then explains the theoretical framework of transformational-generative grammar that is used. Basic linguistic concepts and terms related to Arabic grammar are defined. The document analyzes how interrogative sentences in Arabic can be derived and transformed via tools from transformational-generative grammar, categorizing Al-Istifham into linguistic and literary questions.
A time series analysis of the determinants of savings in namibiaAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study on the determinants of savings in Namibia from 1991 to 2012. It reviews previous literature on savings determinants in developing countries. The study uses time series analysis including unit root tests, cointegration, and error correction models to analyze the relationship between savings and variables like income, inflation, population growth, deposit rates, and financial deepening in Namibia. The results found inflation and income have a positive impact on savings, while population growth negatively impacts savings. Deposit rates and financial deepening were found to have no significant impact. The study reinforces previous work and emphasizes the importance of improving income levels to achieve higher savings rates in Namibia.
A therapy for physical and mental fitness of school childrenAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study on the importance of exercise in maintaining physical and mental fitness for school children. It discusses how physical and mental fitness are developed through participation in regular physical exercises and cannot be achieved solely through classroom learning. The document outlines different types and components of fitness and argues that developing fitness should be a key objective of education systems. It recommends that schools ensure pupils engage in graded physical activities and exercises to support their overall development.
A theory of efficiency for managing the marketing executives in nigerian banksAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study examining efficiency in managing marketing executives in Nigerian banks. The study was examined through the lenses of Kaizen theory (continuous improvement) and efficiency theory. A survey of 303 marketing executives from Nigerian banks found that management plays a key role in identifying and implementing efficiency improvements. The document recommends adopting a "3H grand strategy" to improve the heads, hearts, and hands of management and marketing executives by enhancing their knowledge, attitudes, and tools.
This document discusses evaluating the link budget for effective 900MHz GSM communication. It describes the basic parameters needed for a high-level link budget calculation, including transmitter power, antenna gains, path loss, and propagation models. Common propagation models for 900MHz that are described include Okumura model for urban areas and Hata model for urban, suburban, and open areas. Rain attenuation is also incorporated using the updated ITU model to improve communication during rainfall.
A synthetic review of contraceptive supplies in punjabAlexander Decker
This document discusses contraceptive use in Punjab, Pakistan. It begins by providing background on the benefits of family planning and contraceptive use for maternal and child health. It then analyzes contraceptive commodity data from Punjab, finding that use is still low despite efforts to improve access. The document concludes by emphasizing the need for strategies to bridge gaps and meet the unmet need for effective and affordable contraceptive methods and supplies in Punjab in order to improve health outcomes.
A synthesis of taylor’s and fayol’s management approaches for managing market...Alexander Decker
1) The document discusses synthesizing Taylor's scientific management approach and Fayol's process management approach to identify an effective way to manage marketing executives in Nigerian banks.
2) It reviews Taylor's emphasis on efficiency and breaking tasks into small parts, and Fayol's focus on developing general management principles.
3) The study administered a survey to 303 marketing executives in Nigerian banks to test if combining elements of Taylor and Fayol's approaches would help manage their performance through clear roles, accountability, and motivation. Statistical analysis supported combining the two approaches.
A survey paper on sequence pattern mining with incrementalAlexander Decker
This document summarizes four algorithms for sequential pattern mining: GSP, ISM, FreeSpan, and PrefixSpan. GSP is an Apriori-based algorithm that incorporates time constraints. ISM extends SPADE to incrementally update patterns after database changes. FreeSpan uses frequent items to recursively project databases and grow subsequences. PrefixSpan also uses projection but claims to not require candidate generation. It recursively projects databases based on short prefix patterns. The document concludes by stating the goal was to find an efficient scheme for extracting sequential patterns from transactional datasets.
A survey on live virtual machine migrations and its techniquesAlexander Decker
This document summarizes several techniques for live virtual machine migration in cloud computing. It discusses works that have proposed affinity-aware migration models to improve resource utilization, energy efficient migration approaches using storage migration and live VM migration, and a dynamic consolidation technique using migration control to avoid unnecessary migrations. The document also summarizes works that have designed methods to minimize migration downtime and network traffic, proposed a resource reservation framework for efficient migration of multiple VMs, and addressed real-time issues in live migration. Finally, it provides a table summarizing the techniques, tools used, and potential future work or gaps identified for each discussed work.
A survey on data mining and analysis in hadoop and mongo dbAlexander Decker
This document discusses data mining of big data using Hadoop and MongoDB. It provides an overview of Hadoop and MongoDB and their uses in big data analysis. Specifically, it proposes using Hadoop for distributed processing and MongoDB for data storage and input. The document reviews several related works that discuss big data analysis using these tools, as well as their capabilities for scalable data storage and mining. It aims to improve computational time and fault tolerance for big data analysis by mining data stored in Hadoop using MongoDB and MapReduce.
1. The document discusses several challenges for integrating media with cloud computing including media content convergence, scalability and expandability, finding appropriate applications, and reliability.
2. Media content convergence challenges include dealing with the heterogeneity of media types, services, networks, devices, and quality of service requirements as well as integrating technologies used by media providers and consumers.
3. Scalability and expandability challenges involve adapting to the increasing volume of media content and being able to support new media formats and outlets over time.
This document surveys trust architectures that leverage provenance in wireless sensor networks. It begins with background on provenance, which refers to the documented history or derivation of data. Provenance can be used to assess trust by providing metadata about how data was processed. The document then discusses challenges for using provenance to establish trust in wireless sensor networks, which have constraints on energy and computation. Finally, it provides background on trust, which is the subjective probability that a node will behave dependably. Trust architectures need to be lightweight to account for the constraints of wireless sensor networks.
This document discusses private equity investments in Kenya. It provides background on private equity and discusses trends in various regions. The objectives of the study discussed are to establish the extent of private equity adoption in Kenya, identify common forms of private equity utilized, and determine typical exit strategies. Private equity can involve venture capital, leveraged buyouts, or mezzanine financing. Exits allow recycling of capital into new opportunities. The document provides context on private equity globally and in developing markets like Africa to frame the goals of the study.
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Determinants of seed cotton output evidence from the northern region of ghana
1. Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1700 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2855 (Online)
Vol.3, No.9, 2012
Determinants of Seed Cotton Output: Evidence from the
Northern Region of Ghana
Yazeed Abdul Mumin1* Ditchfield Precious Kwaku Amegashie2 Akwasi Mensah-Bonsu2
1. Department of Economics and Entrepreneurship Development, University for Development Studies, PO Box
520, Wa, Ghana
2. Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, University of Ghana, PO Box LG 68, Legon-Accra,
Ghana
* E-mail of the corresponding author: yazeeduds@gmail.com
Abstract
This study looked at the factors influencing the output of seed cotton in the Northern region of Ghana. Basically,
200 cotton farmers were interviewed and multi-stage random sampling was used in the selection of cotton
farmers. The analytical technique used in the study is the Augmented Cobb-Douglas production model. The
results of the maximum likelihood estimation showed the significant determinants of seed cotton output at 10
percent to include: farmer’s educational status, experience, farm size, fertilizer, seed used, labour input, location,
extension contact and farmer group size with the rest being not significant. The result of the estimation also
shows decreasing returns to scale of 0.824. The relevance of these inputs underscore the call on policy and
cotton companies to focus on not only the quantity of these inputs but also on their quality and timely provision.
1. Introduction
The efficient and effective production of every crop requires the knowledge of the sensitive factors that influence
its production. Even though several studies indicates (Nakhumwa, et al., 1999; Gwimbi, 2009) that biophysical
conditions which include the physical climate, physical and chemical soil characteristics, terrain, etc. are
important factors affecting farm production because they determine suitability and biological potential of
production activities, other studies (such as Singh, 2006) found the level of technology, production systems,
farming methods, and land tenure as well as pest and disease management (see Ahmed, et al., 2004) as essential
factors of cotton production. Various farm inputs such as education, non-farm income and expenditure on plant
protection have been identified by studies (such as Kim, 2005 and Sabo, et al., 2009) as relevant factors affecting
farm output. Sabo, et al. (2009) also indicated that cotton production was gender sensitive to the male sex in
Adamawa State of Nigeria. Wizarat (1981), Mahmood, et al. (1981), Deolalikar (1981), Yilmaz and Ozkan
(2004), Goodwin, et al. (2004) and Kiani (2008) observed that cotton production depended on several factors
(the land tenure, farm size, fertilizer, irrigation, labour, tractor, bullocks, seeds, current expenditure, cropping
intensity, district dummies) which are basically man-made. Notwithstanding these studies, there still exist gap
regarding knowledge on the determinants of seed cotton production in Ghana.
Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is one of the important industrial crops cultivated in the country apart from
cocoa, coffee, tobacco and timber. Seed cotton is produced in the country mainly for two reasons: feeding the
local textile industries and export. In Ghana, it is cultivated mainly in the Northern, Upper East and Upper West
regions. This paper focuses on the Northern Region which contributes up to 50 percent of national output of
cotton and also leads in terms of number of cotton growers (22 849 cotton farmers representing 48.0% of cotton
producers in the three northern regions)(MOFA, 2006). Cotton is an important cash crop in this area because it
contributes to increasing access to innovation, serves as a source of income and employment to farmers and their
families in the area. Families of cotton farmers benefit from cotton production, making them less vulnerable to
poverty (Quarshie, 2002). It also provides raw material to textile mills, ginning factories and oil expellers and as
such was considered for the Presidential Special Initiative (PSI) in Northern Ghana.
In spite of this economic significance of cotton, the crop records wide fluctuations in output levels. The
level of output of seed cotton in the Northern region declined from 23 369 metric tonnes in 1999/00 to 12 607.9
metric tonnes in 2007/08. This development affected lint production which also declined from 9 348 metric
tonnes to 5 325.1 metric tonnes over the same period (MOFA, 2006, ICAC, 2007 and MOFA, 2008). The general
ramification of this situation has been the decline in the national production levels of seed cotton from 35 503
metric tonnes in 2000 to 17 506 metric tonnes in 2001, representing a 51.0% decline in production. Although the
output of seed cotton increased to 22 851 metric tonnes in 2002, it later decreased to an average of 21 000 metric
tonnes from 2005 through 2007 (MOFA, 2008). This developments in the cotton sub-sector is partly attributed to
cotton production in the Northern region being characterized by appreciable levels of technological limitations,
uncertain quality and time of input delivery to cotton farmers, very low producer price and inadequate education
38
2. Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1700 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2855 (Online)
Vol.3, No.9, 2012
and research (ICAC, 2007).
The ability of cotton farmers to stimulate cotton output and yield in the Northern Region of Ghana is mainly
affected by their understanding and application of the farm level factors in production. However, the
understanding and application are low due to high illiteracy rate and malpractices among farmers in the Northern
Region (MOFA, 2006 and Al-Hassan, 2008). Also, in comparing Ghana and other Western and Central African
countries, Ghana lies far behind all cotton producing countries although it is argued that Ghana has excellent
conditions for cotton production (Hussein et al. 2005). For instance, Togo (which is smaller than Ghana) and
Senegal (where the natural resources are far less favourable than in Ghana) produce more cotton annually than
Ghana (MOFA, 2006 and ICAC, 2007). Although a variety of factors either natural or socio-economic have been
identified to affect crop output Ali, (1983); Khan, et al. (1986); Nabi, (1991); Hassan, (1991); Ahmed and
Kuhlmann, (2004); Khuda, et al., (2005); Singh, et al. (2006); Gwimbi, (2009) and Sabo, et al. (2009) there still
exists inadequate literature regarding the factors responsible for increased cotton output and the extent of
contributions made by these factors in the Northern region of Ghana.
Unlike the food crops and cocoa sectors where extensive research is being carried out, research in cotton is
lagging in Ghana (MOFA, 2002 and ICAC 2007). Literature has shown that research works conducted into the
cotton sector focus on the state of cotton industries in Ghana, prospects and challenges of the crop production,
the impact of cotton production specifically on food security, supply response, domestic and international trade
policies, profitability, price incentives and cost analysis of cotton (Yilmaz and Ozkan, 2004; Seini, 1986 and
2002; Wahab, 2006 and ICAC, 2007). These glaring problems and the need to promote cotton production called
for examining the factors affecting the output of seed cotton. Therefore, the objective of the study is to
determine the factors affecting the output of seed cotton in the Northern region of Ghana. The rest of the paper is
organized as follows: Section (2) encapsulates the methodology of the study. Section (3) focuses on the empirical
results of the study. Conclusions are presented in section (4).
2. Methodology
2.1 Theoretical Framework
Examining the factors that determine production involves the evaluation of the extent to which inputs are
transformed into output. This can be attained using a production function which seeks to relate the level of
output to levels of inputs available for a given technology. This study utilized the Power production function
commonly known as the Cobb-Douglas production function. The Cobb-Douglas is principally a nonlinear
production function and is one of the commonly used function in economic analysis (Coelli, et al., 2005) of
issues relating to empirical estimation in agriculture (Sankhayan, 1988). The functional form of the
Cobb-Douglas is given as:
ݕൌ ܽ ∏ ݔఈ , i = 1, 2, …, n. (1)
where, y and xi are the levels of output and inputs respectively. The constants α0 and αi represent the efficiency
parameter and the production elasticities of the respective input variables. The estimation form of this function
can be derived by taking the natural logarithms of the both sides. This will give the function as below:
ln y = ln a0 + Σ ai ln xi , i = 1, 2, …, n. (2)
where ln is the natural logarithm notation and the rest of the variables are as described above. It has been
argued that the purpose of estimation of a production function is to derive various quantities of economic
significance (see Sankhayan, 1988) such as average and marginal products, elasticity of production and returns
to scale, isoquants and rates of technical substitution among others. The emphases of this work are the factor
shares (total, average and marginal products) and the returns to scale. Whereas the factor shares are short run
analysis, the returns to scale analysis is a long run problem and deals with what happens when all the factors of
production are increased simultaneously (Sankhayan, 1988). In order to achieve the objectives of functional
analysis, several theoretical deductions, made from the production function, used in this study include average
product (AP), marginal product (MP), elasticity of production (EP) and returns to scale (RS). The mean values of
cotton output and inputs were used in the assessment of these concepts stated.
The average product (AP) is the output (Q) produced per unit of the variable input xi, keeping other inputs
constant at some specified levels. This is used to measure the average physical product of the inputs. The AP of
input xi is:
AP = Q/xi, holding x2,…,xn constant, i = 1, 2, …, n. (3)
Thus the AP is derive by dividing the mean output (Q) for all farmers by the mean level of the given input (xi).
Marginal product (MP) is the change in the total product due to a unit change in the input, keeping all other
inputs constant at the same prescribed levels. This is deduced from the assumption of the production function
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3. Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1700 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2855 (Online)
Vol.3, No.9, 2012
that is a single valued and continuous for which there exist first and second order partial derivatives of output
with respect to each of the variable inputs. The first order partial derivative of Q with respect to xi yields the MP
as illustrated below:
߲ܳ/߲ = ݅ݔMPi = aixiai-1a0xiaix2a2,…,xnan = 0 (4)
= aix-iQ (5)
MPi = ai (Q/xi) , i = 1, 2, …, n. (6)
The second order partial derivatives need to be negative (for output maximization) as required for its concavity
(Sankhayan 1988; Coelli, et al., 2005) such that;
2
∂Q < 0 2
(7)
∂x
For a case of diminishing returns to input xi; ( ∂Q 2 ∂ 2 xi ) < 0, which implies that 0 < ai < 1 and at the
maximum of AP, MP = AP. Where: ai is the coefficient of the xi. The MP is assess by multiplying the coefficient
(ai) of the input by the average product (Q/xi) as seen in equation (6). The allocations of variable inputs in a way
that will engender the achievement of the objective of output maximization by a farmer require the operation at
the efficient part of the production function. This efficient part is evaluated by considering the behavior of the
MP in the production function. In principle the MP of a factor may assume any value, positive, zero or negative.
However, according to production theory only the part of the production function, that is, on the range of output
over which the MPs of the factors are positive with APs higher than MPs (Koutsoyiannis, 2003) are considered
efficient (see Bishop and Taussaint, 1958; Chisholm and McCarty, 1981; Adegeye and Dittoh, 1985) and these
can be found in the second stage of the typical production function.
Elasticity of production (EP) is the percentage change in the quantity of output (Q) due to one percent change in
the quantity of a given input (xi) while keeping all the other inputs constant at some prespecified levels.
Elasticity of production (Q) w.r.t. input xi can be obtained as:
EP = ∂ Q/ ∂ xi . xi /Q thus, i = 1, 2, …, n. (8)
EP = (ai Q/xi)/(xi /Q) (9)
EP = ai (10)
Thus, for the Cobb-Douglas production function the power of the respective input variable directly give the
elasticity of production with respect to it. The elasticity of production of an input can be less than, equal to or
greater than unity as its MP is respectively less than, equal to or greater than its AP. It will be positive if both AP
and MP are positive.
Returns to scale (RS) is a technical property of production function used to describe the relationship
between scale and efficiency (Frank and Bemanke, 2000). This tells what happens to output when all inputs are
increased by exactly the same proportion. This can be estimated as:
RS = ∑_݅^݊ ( ∂ Q/ ∂ xi)(xi /Q) , i = 1, 2,…,n (11)
Thus the summation of all the powers of the input variables provides directly a ready estimate of the returns
to scale. Returns to scale can be decreasing, constant or increasing depending on whether ai is less than, equal to
or greater than one.
2.2 Model Selection
Recent literature presents various models for explaining the relationship between output and inputs in the various
branches of economics. Sabo et al., (2009) used varied production functions to test which one best describes
cotton production in Adamawa State. This approach is what this work adopts. The algebraic forms of the linear,
log-linear and Cobb-Douglas specifications are respectively as follows:
y = a0 + Σ aixi + e (12)
ln y = a0 + Σ ai xi + e (13)
ln y = ln a0 + Σ ai ln xi + u (14)
Where y is the level of output, xi is the ith input used, a0 is the constant and ais, are the parameter estimates,
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4. Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1700 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2855 (Online)
Vol.3, No.9, 2012
ln is natural logarithm and, e and u are the stochastic error terms assumed to be normally distributed as [e and u
~ N(0, σe2 and σu2)]. These three models as specified above were ran and the best model was adopted on the basis
of the RESET test, the Akaike (AIC) and Bayesian (BIC) Information criteria. These provided a basis for
determining model adequacy and if these parameters are reasonably good for a model, then that model can be
accepted as a fair representation of reality (Gujarati, 2006). The Ramsey RESET test was used to test for model
specification. This was done by testing whether introducing values of the predicted dependent variable (cotton
output) as additional explanatory variables in the models will lead to a statistically significant increase in the
R-squared (for a model misspecified), on the basis of the f-test.
Table 1: Model Selection Statistics
Description AIC BIC Ramsey RESET: F-value (prob.)
Cobb-Douglas 132.71 182.03 2.01 (0.114)
Log-linear 136.61 186.08 1.89 (0.134)
Linear-linear 3045.46 3094.93 24.39 (0.000)***
Source: Field survey, 2010.
Table 1 shows that the Cobb-Douglas and the Log-linear functions were not statistically significant as indicated
by the F-values of the RESET test whereas the Linear-linear function is significant at 1%. This makes the former
functions superior to the Linear-linear function. However, the least Akaike (AIC) and Bayesian (BIC) criteria
values in Table 1 suggests that the Cobb-Douglas is relatively superior to the Log-linear and as such adopted. As
a result, the study employed the Augmented (Note 1) Cobb-Douglas Production function in the estimation.
Another advantage of the Cobb-Douglas production function is that it gives direct measures of elasticity. The
Augmented Cobb-Douglas model used is specified as follows:
ln Q = ln β0 + β1 ln Lab + β2 ln Fsize + β3 ln Fert + β4 ln Edu + β5 ln Ext + β6 ln Exp + β7
ln Sd + β8 ln Fagp + β9 ln Spray + β10 Ldo + β11 Mkt + β12 Loc + β13Gend + β14 Bon + u (14)
Where: β0 is the intercept and β1 to β14 (Note 2) represents the parameter estimates and u is the stochastic
disturbance term assumed to be normally distributed (u ~ N(0, σu2). The rest of the variables are as defined in
Table 2 below. The statistical significance of the various coefficients of the model was tested by the following
hypothesis stated below with H0 and H1, representing the null and alternate hypotheses respectively.
H0: There is no relationship between the explanatory variables and the dependent variable (βi = 0)
H1: There is a positive relationship between the explanatory variables and the dependent variable (βi > 0)
In an attempt to maximize the reliability of the estimates and conclusions, it was deemed imperative to test the
fitness of the model. This indicates the extent to which variations in the dependent variable is jointly explained
by variations in the independent variables. The F-test was used to achieve this requirement. The goodness of the
model was also assessed by using the R-squared. The model was estimated using the Maximum Likelihood
Estimation (MLE).
2.3 Data
Cross-sectional data were collected from 200 cotton farmers in two main producing districts (90 farmers from
the Savelugu/Nanton District and 110 farmers from the West Mamprusi District) in the Northern region of Ghana
using multi-stage random sampling technique. The selection of the districts was done using purposive sampling
because these districts represented the districts with the largest number of farmers (GCCL, 2009) and selection
of farmers was done randomly. Data were obtained on farmer-issues including socio-demographic characteristics,
cotton production (output and conventional inputs) and marketing, land tenure and other inputs as well as
equipment, using structured questionnaire. However, the effects of climatic factors, time and soil quality were
not captured in the model mainly because the study dealt with only cross-sectional data. Also, the problem of
endogenous bias could not have been discounted for interviewing only cotton farmers but the focus of the study
was not on binary choice where the views of non-cotton farmers would have been very necessary.
3. Empirical results
Table 2 presents the basic statistics of the various variables used in the model. The key statistics presented are the
means and standard deviations. The average number of years spent in formal education is 1.79 years which is far
less than the national average on 10 years (Al-hassan, 2008). This indicates a high illiteracy rate among cotton
farmers in the area. However, these farmers have an appreciable level of experience in cotton farming because
farmers have at least 11 years, on the average, of experience in cotton farming.
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5. Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1700 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2855 (Online)
Vol.3, No.9, 2012
Table 2: Name, Description and Summary statistics of variables used in the model
Variable Name and description Mean (STD)
Q (DV) Cotton output (kilograms) 1 236.94(951.73)
Edu Level of education (No. of years spent in formal education) 1.79(3.59)
Exp Level of experience (No. of years in cotton farming) 11.89(7.47)
Fsize Cotton farm size (Hectares) 2.15(1.42)
Sd Quantity of seeds used (kilograms) 1.45(1.11)
Spray Volume of chemical spray used (Litres) 8.63(5.72)
Fert Quantity of chemical fertilizer used (kilograms) 5.75(3.92)
Ext Extension contact (No. of contacts with extension officer/season) 3.91(2.13)
Fagp Farmer group size (No. of farmers in the group) 6.49(1.90)
Lab Labour used on the cotton farm (man-days) 40.73(19.05)
Loc Farmers location (Dummy: 1=Savelugu/Nanton district and 0=West Mamprusi 0.50(0.50)
district)
Gend Gender of farmer (Dummy: 1=Male and 0=Female) 0.89(0.31)
Mkt Market availability (Dummy: 1=When farmer takes part in negotiating prices, 0.58(0.49)
have early sales and receives instant payment and 0=Otherwise)
Ldo Land ownership (Dummy: 1=Owner of cotton farmland and 0=Otherwise) 0.91(0.29)
Bon Motivation package (Dummy: 1=received bonus & 0=Otherwise) 0.39(0.49)
Note: DV=Dependent variable
Source: Field survey, 2010.
The average cotton farm size is 2.15ha which is quite small compared with the average of 2.8ha for other
crops cultivated in the area. The average quantities of other conventional inputs (seed, spray, fertilizer and labour)
are 1.45kgs, 8.63litres, 5.75kgs and 40.73 man-days respectively. The spray is made up of insecticides and
weedicides. The insecticides were applied five times in each cropping season by almost all farmers because these
were provided by cotton companies whereas the weedicides were applied by few farmers who could afford to
buy them on their own. The average number of contacts with extension officers is at least 3 times per season.
Discussion with cotton farmers suggests that this is relatively good when compared with their contacts with
extension officers on other crops because they indicated that the cotton companies make sure the Cotton
Production Assistants visit the farmers. Farmer group is a requirement for cotton production in the area and the
average number of people in the group is at least 6 people. Cotton farmers are predominantly males (89%) and
landowners (constituting 91%) in the area.
Table 3 presents the model diagnostic statistics on the basis of the three functional forms. From Table 3, the
R-squared is 75.4% (for the Cobb-Douglas) suggesting that at least 75% of variation in seed cotton output in the
Northern region is explain by the variables included in the model. Also, the probability of the F-statistic is 0.000
suggesting that the R-squared is significant and that the explanatory variables of the model (farm size,
experience, quantity of seed, spray, fertilizer, contact with extension agents, farmer group, labour, location,
gender, education, market, land ownership and bonus) collectively and significantly explained the quantity of
seed cotton produced in the area.
Table 3: Model Diagnostic Statistics for the Three Functional Forms
Description Cobb-Douglas Log-Linear Linear-linear
R-squared 75.4 75.0 77.1
Adjusted R-squared 73.5 73.0 75.3
F-statistic 59.09 60.640 25.350
F-Probability 0.000 0.000 0.000
Source: Field survey, 2010.
Table 4 presents the parameter estimates of the determinants of cotton output using the three functional
forms and the discussion focuses on the adopted one which is the Augmented Cobb-Douglas function. Table 4
also shows the average products (AP) and marginal products (MP) of the inputs. Education is a variable that has
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a positive and significant relationship, at 10 percent, with cotton output in the area. This has an elasticity of
0.099 indicating that, ceteris paribus, a 1% increase in a farmer’s schooling year adds up to 0.099% increase
(68.41kgs in terms of marginal product) to the farmer’s output of seed cotton because farmers with appreciable
levels of education were able to manage their inputs and farms quite well. Experience of the farmer was positive
and statistically significant, at 5 percent, suggesting that farmers who stayed longer in cotton production obtained
higher output of cotton ceteris paribus. This had an elasticity of 0.077 and a marginal product of 8.01kgs.
Discussions with the farmers suggest that experience is a crucial factor because it aids them in the use of inputs
and risk and uncertainty evaluation and control.
The estimate of farm size has an elasticity of 0.241 and is positively significant at the 5 percent level
suggesting a 0.241% (138.65kgs of marginal product) increase in output of seed cotton given a percentage (a unit)
increase in the hectors of land used. The more land allocated to cotton enable farmers to either vary land as an
input or practice land rotation although this practice might not necessarily guarantee efficiency. Seed quantity
was another variable with a positive relationship with output and statistically significant at 10 percent. Thus
farmers who used more quantity of cotton seed, with the appropriate combinations and levels of other inputs had
more cotton plants per farm and hence, higher levels of cotton output than those who used less quantity of cotton
seeds as was also argued earlier by Sabo, et al. (2009) and Yilmaz and Ozkan (2004). This has an elasticity of
0.089. The fertilizer input had an elasticity of 0.184 suggesting that a 1% increase in the kilograms of chemical
fertilizer used increases cotton output by 0.184%. Indeed fertilizer was considered as an important input by
farmers because of its role in increasing cotton output in the area. Extension services enhanced farmers’ access to
modern agricultural technology, especially input varieties and use as well as pests and disease control and had an
elasticity of 0.219% increase in cotton output given a percentage increase in contacts. Despite the relevance of
extension services farmers were reported to have had inadequate contact with extension agents. The reasons were
mainly due to limited logistic support to visit all farmers by an agent and also other farmers were avoiding the
agents when they failed to comply with prescribed advice and practices.
The estimate for labour used is positive and significant at 1 percent level of significance and had an
elasticity of 0.272 suggesting that, holding other factors constant, a percentage increase in labour used
contributed up to 0.272% increase in the level of cotton output. Discussions revealed that labour was required to
carry out cotton activities timely; particularly weeding and harvesting (since harvesting in particular is labour
intensive and farmers used an average of 53 man-days).
Table 4: Parameter estimates (based on Cobb-Douglas, Log-linear and Linear-linear models) of the
determinants of cotton output.
Variable Cobb-Douglas Log-linear Linear –linear Cobb-Douglas
Elasticities t-value Elasticities t-value Elasticities t-value AP MP
lnEdu 0.099 (0.051)* 1.92 0.073 (0.029)** 2.51 109.21 (52.84)** 2.07 691.02 68.41
lnExp 0.077 (0.376)** 2.26 0.005 (0.005)* 1.79 -2.41 (5.59) -0.43 104.03 8.01
lnFsize 0.241 (0.102)** 2.36 0.057 (0.038) 1.48 87.82 (62.12) 1.41 575.32 138.65
lnSd 0.089 (0.053)* 1.66 0.080 (0.027)*** 2.97 190.11 (78.61)** 2.42 853.06 75.92
lnSpray -0.017 (0.087) -0.33 0.004 (0.006) 0.75 6.42 (14.95) 0.43 143.33 -2.44
lnFert 0.184 (0.052)** 2.11 0.026 (0.014)* 1.77 81.11 (25.09)*** 3.23 215.12 39.58
lnExt 0.219 (0.052)*** 4.23 0.064 (0.016)*** 3.97 74.28 (21.65)*** 3.43 316.35 69.28
lnFagp -0.693 (0.107)*** -6.46 -0.126(0.017)*** -7.58 -129.44(23.34)*** -5.55 190.59 -132.08
lnLab 0.272 (0.082)*** 3.30 0.005 (0.002)*** 2.73 3.40 (2.33) 1.46 30.37 8.26
Loc 0.277 (0.066)*** 4.20 0.238 (0.070)*** 3.41 340.45 (94.89)*** 3.59
Gend -0.025 (0.072) -0.35 0.058 (0.074) 0.79 -160.54(117.71) -1.36
Mkt 0.024 (0.051) 0.47 0.044 (0.051) 0.88 60.09 (67.76) 0.89
Ldo 0.118 (0.077) 1.53 0.136 (0.075)* 1.80 42.24 (145.43) 0.29
Bon -0.041 (0.063) -0.65 -0.027 (0.064) -0.43 -16.38 (104.00) -0.16
Constant 6.076 (0.034)*** 16.18 6.368 (0.205)*** 31.13 441.46 (278.65) 1.58
Note: Values in parenthesis = robust standard errors; ***, **, * significant at P</=0.01, 0.05 and 0.10
respectively and ln = natural logarithm, AP =Average product and MP = Marginal product. Return to scale (RS)
= 0.824
Location is a district dummy and has a positive effect and significant at 1%. This has an elasticity of 0.277
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implying that, ceteris paribus, the output of cotton for farmers in the Savelugu/Nanton District is 31.917% (Note
3) higher than the output of farmers in the West Mamprusi District. This development was mainly explained by
the use of herbicides/weedicides in the Savelugu/Nanton District and the gradual replacement of cotton with
watermelon in the West Mamprusi District. Farmer group size had a negative relationship (and did not meet the
apriori expectation because large group size was expected as a means of social capital) with cotton output and
significant at 1%. The elasticity of farmer group size implied that a percentage increase in the size of farmer
group leads to 0.693% decrease in output of seed cotton in the area. This was so because farmer group is a
pre-requisite for cotton production and also a hedge to remedy defaults in nonpayment of outstanding debts by
farmers. The estimation revealed that market availability and land ownership have positive correlation with the
level of seed cotton output whereas gender and bonus have negative relationship. These variables were, however,
not significant. Spray used and farmer group size are within the ranges of output for which the MPs are negative
(-2.44 and -132.08, Table 4). This is the stage 3 of the production function and represents an inefficient stage.
Spray had a negative elasticity of 0.017 but not statistically significant. The sprays used did not meet the
expected sign because it was said to have been less effective and contributed to withering of the cotton plant and
this was attributed to expired sprays supplied to farmers by cotton companies. However, it still remained the
lead pests and disease management strategy in the area.
The relationship between the marginal product (MP) and average product (AP) for all the other inputs in
Table 4 suggests that farmers in the area are operating at the efficient part of their production. This was evident
in the fact that the APs for these inputs were higher than the MPs and also fall under the efficient range of output
over which the MPs are positive placing the range of operation in the second stage of production. This shows
that the outputs of these inputs are in the range where the MPs are decreasing and suggests the existence of
diminishing returns to these individual input variables, under usual conditions, since the APs were higher than
the MPs. This was a typical characteristic of the stage 2 of the production function where the MPs are not only
positive and falling but also lower than the APs for each of these variables. Hence, farmers need to operate
within this range for these resources since any addition will lead to increase in their TP, ceteris paribus, and cut
down the use of the spray provided as well as the farmer group size. The result of the estimation showed returns
to scale of 0.824 suggesting that 1% increase in all factors employed in cotton production by the same proportion
in the area, given their present state of technical abilities, leads to 0.824% increase in the output of seed cotton in
the long run. This is a situation of decreasing returns to scale and was partly attributed to diseconomies creeping
in because of the decreasing ability of the Ghana Cotton Company Ltd and other companies to efficiently
co-ordinate the activities of cotton farmers in the area.
4. Conclusions
This study employed the Augmented Cobb-Douglas production function to estimate the determinants of seed
cotton output. The findings are that: experience and educational level of the farmer positively and significantly
influence the output of cotton because of the implication of these factors on input use and dealing with risk and
uncertainty. The quantities of seed and fertilizer used are significant inputs affecting the output of seed cotton.
Labour employed also significantly influences seed cotton output. This suggests that the key conventional farm
inputs in the area play crucial roles in augmenting cotton output. Contact with extension agents is a means of
imbibing farming skills and motivation for farmers to comply with good farming practices and as such has a
significant effect on output. The existence of other cash crops serves as a threat to cotton production in the area
since the location difference in output of the farmers in the two districts is partly due to the production of
watermelon in the West Mamprusi district. Although farmer group is a hedge against farmers default, larger
farmer groups adversely affect cotton output. The other factors although crucial but do not significantly affect the
output of seed cotton. Cotton farmers in the area are operating within the efficient range of input application for
most inputs suggested by the higher AP over MP for these inputs and the positive values of MP. The result of the
estimation shows returns to scale of 0.824 which is decreasing returns to scale.
With the high level of illiteracy and the importance of experience in cotton farming among sampled farmers,
the implementation of educational and mentorship programming is recommended to improve farmers’ skills and
performance. Thus policy and cotton companies need to focus on timely delivery of good quality cotton seed and
fertilizer in the right amount as well as supply of unexpired and familiar weedicides and pesticides. Also, further
investigation into the sources of these sprays, reasons for their supplies and their effects on the cotton plant is
expedient. Contact with extension services should be deepened by increasing the knowledge and logistic base of
the Cotton Production Assistants to offer the relevant services and advice needed by farmers. Farmers should at
least operate within this current range for the resources employed at their efficient levels since any addition will
lead to increase in their output, ceteris paribus.
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Notes
Note 1: Augmented because the model specified is not the conventional Cobb-Douglas function.
Note 2: The derivation of the coefficients of the dummy variables for a natural logarithm function is given as (eβd
– 1) *100, where: e is a mathematical constant and it is given as 2.71828, βd is the value of the estimated
coefficient in the production model.
Note 3: Natural log of the dummy variable was derived from working out the relation [(e0.277 – 1)100] = 31.917.
Where: e = 2.71828 and 0.277 is the coefficient of the dummy variable.
46
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