Vol. 12, Special Issue 12 (2023)

Author(s):
Shetti Lavakumar, Dr. D Srinivasa Reddy, Dr. P Radhika and Dr. K Supriya

Abstract:
This study delves into the key benefits and challenges faced by mango farmers adopting drip irrigation in Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh. Chittoor is leading producer with an area and production of 77.64 thousand hectares and 9.3 lakh tons respectively. Employing a multi-stage sampling technique with a convenience approach, the study gathered data from a sample of 40 farmers, the study identified eleven benefits and eight major constraints impacting drip irrigation adoption. Structured questionnaires utilizing Likert scale responses and analysis through the Garrett ranking technique revealed that increased production (67.25), water conservation (66.25) and affordability due to subsidies (65.88) stood out as the most significant benefits perceived by farmers. Conversely, the major concerns encompassed are clogging of pipes (68.88), high installation costs (67.50) and damage inflicted by animals or fire (64.25).