Resource Use Efficiency and Economic Returns in Cotton Cultivation: A Comparative Study of Trained and Untrained Farmers
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63075/dz899f11Abstract
This study evaluates the comparative efficiency of input use, yields, and economic returns between trained and untrained cotton farmers in Muzaffargarh District, located in the cotton belt of southern Punjab, Pakistan. A purposive and random sampling strategy was adopted, whereby 100 trained lead farmers and 50 untrained farmers were interviewed. Results revealed significant differences in fertilizer application practices, input expenditures, and productivity. Trained farmers applied 1.5–2 times more fertilizers, adopted balanced NPK blends and micronutrients, and incurred higher input costs per hectare. Consequently, their average yield (2,100 kg/ha) was 27% higher than that of untrained farmers (1,650 kg/ha). However, trained farmers’ profitability per kilogram of cotton and return on investment (ROI = 0.98) were lower than those of untrained farmers (ROI = 1.12), primarily due to higher input costs. Regression and correlation analyses highlighted fertilizer use and farm size as positive determinants of yield, while pesticide expenditure showed a negative association. Chi-square results further indicated that training positively influenced the adoption of sustainable practices such as crop rotation. Cluster and profitability analyses emphasized that while trained farmers achieve higher absolute profits and yields, untrained farmers are relatively more cost-efficient. The findings underscore the dual role of farmer training in enhancing productivity but also caution against overutilization of inputs, calling for policies and extension efforts that balance productivity gains with economic sustainability.
Key Words: Efficiency, Economic Returns, Farmers, Comparison
