AN ECONOMIC STUDY OF ISSUES AND CHALLENGES IN PADDY FARMING IN GIRIDIH DISTRICT OF JHARKHAND: A CASE STUDY OF KHAJMUNDA VILLAGE

This research paper attempts to understand issues of paddy farmers and the challenges associated with paddy cultivation in a village called Khajmunda in Giridih district of Jharkhand Data is collected through interview of farmers with the previously prepared questionnaire and field observation and telephone interview. Collected data has been analysed by the researcher by identifying various issues and challenges that are faced by paddy farmers in this village. Both modern and traditional agricultural techniques, tools, and machinery are in use in farming in this village. Labor-intensive tasks are primarily performed by women, but purchase of seeds and other inputs used in paddy cultivation, the operation of tractors and other machinery, and negotiating the sale of the harvested paddy with traders are primarily carried out by male members. This article examines the degree of penetration and use of new-age technology and inputs in paddy cultivation in Khajmunda, along with labour-related issues, farmers' banking behaviour, the role of women, irrigation status, and issues related to the utilization of paddy waste.