Summary
This study uses nationally representative NSSO survey data and propensity score matching to evaluate the causal impact of formal seed adoption on smallholder farmer productivity and income across five major Indian crops. Formal seed access is associated with substantial productivity gains (20–50%) and income increases (5–50%) depending on crop type, with adoption more likely among larger farmers and those with better access to information and extension services. The findings support policy investment in certified seed distribution, farmer training, and extension services to enhance agricultural productivity in India.
Regional applicability
This study is based on Indian smallholder farming systems and directly addresses policy challenges specific to India's seed systems and agricultural extension infrastructure. The findings on formal seed adoption barriers and enablers may have limited direct applicability to United Kingdom commercial farming, where formal seed adoption is already near-universal; however, the methodological approach and findings on information asymmetry and extension service effectiveness may inform targeted agricultural development policy in other contexts with similar institutional constraints.
Key measures
Productivity increase (percentage), net crop income increase (percentage), seed expenses, crop yields, adoption determinants (access to technical advice, formal training, MSP awareness, farm size)
Outcomes reported
The study measured the impact of formal seed sources on seed expenses, crop yields, and net crop income across five major crops (paddy, wheat, maize, gram, and arhar). It quantified productivity and income gains associated with formal seed adoption using propensity score matching to control for selection bias.
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