Dynamics and Determinants of Crop Diversification Under Natural Farming Regime in Arunachal Pradesh: Application of Tobit Model

The study focused on traditional cultivation practices consistent with natural farming principles in the tribal areas of East Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh. Primary data collected from 90 farmers in the Pasighat and Mebo blocks for 2022-23 were analysed using the CAGR and Markov chain model to examine the growth rates of major crops and shifts in cropping patterns. The crop diversification and concentration indexes were also calculated to assess the crop diversification and concentration level. The findings indicated that spice crops such as dry chili, ginger, and turmeric showed significant increases in area, production, and productivity. In contrast, cereal crops exhibited more modest growth rates. In contrast, cereal crops exhibited more modest growth rates. The analysis revealed substantial crop diversification, particularly in the Mebo block, which had a CDI of 0.71, compared to 0.66 in Pasighat. Notably, mustard, maize, and rice in Pasighat and ginger and arecanut in Mebo had high crop concentration indices. Farm size, educational level, net returns, and exposure to price fluctuations significantly influenced crop diversification. The declining cultivation area of food grains underscores the need for government intervention. Farmers must be informed about research-based natural farming techniques to enhance the benefits for small and marginal farmers.