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CHAPTER - III
METHODOLOGY, PROFILE OF THE STUDY AREA AND
CHARACTERISTICS OF SAMPLE FARMERS
3.1 Introduction
A brief description of methodology adopted, profile of the study area and
characteristics of sample farmers is presented in this chapter.
3.2 Methodology
Methods which were used for collection and analysis of data including
specific tools of analysis and empirical models are described in this chapter.
3.2.1 Area of the Study
The Thoothukudi District is comprised of 12 blocks; out of which the
Srivaikuntam taluk was selected for this study. In the Srivaikuntam taluk, two
blocks namely Srivaikuntam and Karunkulam were taken for the study. From the
two blocks, a total sample of 428 households was taken for this study. Farmers
from ten villages in these two blocks (in a descending order) cultivating both
paddy and banana were chosen for selection of sample farmers
3.2.2 Period of Study
The present study is carried out in Srivaikuntam block of Thoothukudi
district. It was intended to cover representative sample villages which differ from
one another in conditions of production, irrigation, rainfall etc. The period of
study was confined to a single agricultural year 2008-2009, one Kharif season and
one Rabi season.
3.2.3 Sample Designing
A multi- stage stratified random sampling technique is adopted for this
study. In the first stage, Srivaikuntam taluk is selected. At the second stage, from
Srivaikuntam taluk, two blocks are selected- Srivaikuntam block and Karunkulam
block. At the third stage, out of thirty six revenue villages in Srivaikuntam block,
ten villages are selected on the basis of total number of farmers and out of thirty
three revenue villages in Karunkulam block, ten villages are selected. Farmers
from ten villages in these two blocks cultivating both paddy and banana are
chosen as sample farmers. At the last stage, from the selected villages 5 per cent
farmers are chosen and total of 428 farmers are selected randomly. Finally from
the 428 farmers, 124 small farmers and 68 large farmers for paddy and 142 small
farmers and 94 large farmers for banana are selected for the present study.
The required data were collected from Srivaikuntam and Karunkulam
blocks in Thoothukudi district. A sample of 428 farmers (5 per cent in total
farmers) representing different size of holdings from the selected 10 villages in
each block were interviewed for collecting primary data related to crop production
and the like for estimation of energy and its availability for energy use in the study
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area. However, an intensive survey method was adopted for collection of data for
which pre-structured schedule was used.
3.2.4 Sampling Procedure
A multi-stage stratified random sampling technique was adopted for this
study.
In the first stage, out of the eight taluks of Thoothukudi District,
Srivaikuntam taluk was selected. At the second stage, in Srivaikuntam taluk, two
blocks were taken namely Srivaikuntam block and Karunkulam block. At the
third stage, out of thirty six revenue villages in Srivaikuntam block ten villages
were selected on the basis of total number of farmers and out of thirty three
revenue villages in Karunkulam block ten villages were selected. At the last stage,
the numbers of farmers of the selected villages were chosen and total of 428
farmers were selected randomly.
The village-wise list of sample farmers is
presented in Table 3.1.
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TABLE 3.1
NAME OF VILLAGES AND PROPORTIONATE SAMPLE
SELECTED FARMERS
Sl.
No.
Block / Name of
Villages
Total Farmers
Paddy Banana
Sample Farmers
Paddy Banana
Overall
Farmers in
Block Wise
Overall
Selected
Farmers
4,072
203
Srivaikuntam
1
Maramangalam
282
296
14
15
2
Sawyerpuram
188
214
10
11
3
Srivaikuntam
186
220
9
12
4
Eral
179
210
9
10
5
Korkai
180
195
8
9
6
Iruvappapuram
112
205
6
10
7
Siruthondanallur
165
232
8
12
8
Vallavallan
192
213
10
10
9
Thollappanpannai
196
204
9
10
10
Velur Kaspa
188
215
10
11
Total
Karunkulam
1,868
2,204
93
110
1
Karunkulam
268
316
14
16
2
Sekkarakudi
196
241
9
12
3
Singathakurichi
212
212
11
10
4
Serakulam
199
231
10
11
5
Vasavappapuram
198
256
10
13
6
Ellainacickenpatti
180
252
9
13
7
Manakarai
185
264
9
13
8
Alanda
193
256
10
13
9
Vallanadkaspa
170
243
8
12
10
Arampannai
Total
186
1,987
257
2,528
9
99
13
126
4,515
225
3,855
4,732
192
236
8,587
428
Overall
Source: Taluk Office Report, Srivaikuntam Taluk, 2010.
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3.2.4 Data Collection
The study depends on both primary and secondary data. For the purpose of
collecting the primary data, the major techniques such as observation, informal
talks and interview schedules are the best ones. The survey method is to be used
as a tool for data collection and to study the energy consumption pattern of the
agricultural sector of the selected villages.
The secondary data were obtained from the Assistant Director of Statistics
and the Revenue Department Officials of Thoothukudi District. In addition to
these, census data pertaining to population at the village as well as district level
required were collected from the district census handbooks for the year 2001.
Further, energy budgeting was done with the help of the energy
equivalents. The measurement of energy was done by expressing the equivalent
energy unit in Mega Joules. Because, different forms of energy are equivalent and
all can be expressed in the same units. In the international system of units,
amounts of energy are expressed in Joules (J) or multiples of the Joules. A kilo
Joule (KJ) equals 1,000 J, and a Mega Joule (MJ) equals 1,00,000 joules. One
Joule is equal to the amount of energy in one watt of electricity used for one
second.
Symbol ‘J’ is also known as Newton-meter of energy. And the inputs
covered under the study were converted into equivalent units of energy and
expressed in Mega Joules (MJ). The energy requirements for the production of
paddy and banana were calculated by applying the energy equivalents.
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3.2.5 Analytical Tools
To measure the cost and returns, the concepts of Cost A and Cost C were
used.
To convert physical units of inputs and outputs into energy terms, the
procedure of Prakash Metha and Racco et al., has been followed for the present
study.
To identify energy inputs influencing per acre value of output energy for
small and large farmers, log-linear multiple regression model was used.
To test the structural difference between small and large farmers, Chow’s
test was used.
To find out whether the structural differences existed at intercept and/or
slope level, a log linear multiple regression model incorporating intercept and
slope dummy was used. For analysing resource use efficiency of different energy
inputs, the procedure to test the marginal value productivity against unity
suggested by E.O. Heady and Dillon (1952) was followed.
To examine substitution and complementarities between energy inputs
Allen Elasticity of Substitution (AES) derived from Trans log cost was used. The
own and cross price elasticity of demand of different energy inputs were computed
from Trans log cost function.
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3.2.6. Measurement of Variables
Human Labour
Human labour man days were measured in terms of eight hours of work per
day. It was evaluated in terms of the man days worked by both male and female
workers. Female wage rate was observed to be about half that of the male worker
and hence two units of female labour were converted into one unit of male labour.
Human labour included hired labour, permanent labour and family labour.
Hired Labour
Hired labour represents the labourers employed for farming activities
during the cultivation period and wages were calculated on the basis of the
prevailing market rates.
Permanent Labour
Labourers permanently hired for farming activities throughout the year are
considered permanent labour.
Family Labour
In each family, those who are actively involved in farming activities were
considered family labour. Imputed wages were calculated at the prevailing market
price during the cultivation period.
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Bullock Labour
It comprised the physical work of two bullocks, for eight hours of work.
The value of human labour was excluded
Organic Manure
The cost of organic manure was calculated on the basis of the prevailing
market price per quintal.
Inorganic Manure
Inorganic manure is only fertilizer. It refers to the actual amount applied in
kilograms in the form of nitrogen, potassium and phosphate in paddy cultivation.
Pesticides
Pesticides and insecticides are used in spraying to protect the crop from
pest menace. In the case of liquid pesticide 1100 ml. was considered as equivalent
to one kilo pesticide used.
Seed
The quantity of seed purchased in terms of kilograms for paddy and banana
cultivation was considered as seed in the present study.
Irrigation
Irrigation was measured in terms of hours. It referred to the water drawn
from the public irrigation or own wells or both to a height of one centimetre water
level in the field, at periodical intervals.
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Mechanical
The actual period of time hired for tractors and power tillers was referred in
the study as mechanical based on the hiring charges prevailing in the study area.
Interest
Interest was calculated for working capital, which was simply the average
interest rate (12 per cent) that prevailed during the study period in the study area.
It was measured in rupees.
Working Capital
Cost on different inputs put together is termed as working capital. It
excluded interest.
Farm Size
It refers to the amount of land actually cultivated during the reference
period. It includes the own land plus the leased-in land under cultivation by a
farmer.
Small Farmer
The term ‘small farmer’ refers to one who has a net cultivable area less than
five acres.
Large Farmer
The term ‘large farmer’ refers to one whose net cultivated area is five or
more than five acres.
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Net Cultivated Area
The actual extent of land cultivated by the farmer is termed net cultivated
area. It could be owned or leased-in land.
Gross Cultivated Area
It refers to the sum of net cultivated area and the area sown more than once.
Cropping Intensity
It is the ratio between gross cultivated area and net cultivated area.
Symbolically,
Cropping Intensity =
Gross cultivated Area
----------------------------Net cultivated Area
Yield
Yield is measured in terms of physical quantity of paddy and banana
produced in kilograms as well as in their monetary value at the prevailing price.
Rent
The prevailing rate in terms of rupees, for the use of land, during the
reference period has been considered rent.
Other Cost
The expenses incurred on depreciation on farm implements, interest on
permanent capital structures excluding the land and the incidental expenses
incurred during agriculture operations are treated as other cost.
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Cost A
It includes the cost on human labour, bullock labour, fertilizer, pesticide,
irrigation, mechanical power and seed. It is also called operational cost.
Cost C
Cost C includes, Cost A, interest on working capital, rent on land and land
revenue, cess tax and depreciation of farm machinery.
Gross Income
The market value of physical output of main and by-products of the
particular crop has been termed as gross income.
Net Income
Gross income minus Cost A has been termed as net income.
Output Energy
The output of both main and by-products measured in terms of energy has
been called output energy.
Per acre Value of Output Energy
The ratio between output energy and size of the farm has been termed as
per acre value of output energy.
Net Energy
Output energy minus Cost A measured in terms of energy has been termed
as net energy.
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Per Acre Value of Net Energy
The ratio between net energy and its farm size has been termed as per acre
value of net energy.
3.3 Profile of the Study Area
Inception
The Thoothukudi District carved out of the erstwhile Tirunelveli District in
1986 has certain rare features.
The Government in their G.O. Ms.No.535 /
Revenue Department dated 23.4.1986 ordered the formation of a new district
called the Chidambaranar district which is named after the great patriot and
freedom fighter late V.O.Chidambaram Pillai. It was formed on 8-9-1986, with its
headquarters at Tuticorin, by bifurcating the erstwhile Tirunelveli District.
(District Industry Centre, 1993-94)
The district has been renamed as the
Thoothukudi district from 1997 as per the G.O. Ms. No. 618/ Revenue
Administration (1) Department dated 1-7-1997.
Location
The Thoothukudi district is bounded by the Virudhunagar district on the
North, Tirunelvelli district on the South and West and the Bay of Bengal on the
East. It lies between 0.80 and 450 of the Northern longitude and 780 and 110 of the
Eastern longitude. The total area of the district is 4621 km2 (District Statistical
Hand Book, 2008-09).
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Map: 3.1 – Area of Study
100
There are three Revenue divisions (namely Thoothukudi, Kovilpatti and
Tiruchendur), eight taluks and 12 blocks in the district. This district comprises 19
town panchayats and three municipalities. There are 468 revenue villages grouped
in 408 panchayats.
Climate and Rainfall
The climate of Thoothukudi is neither too hot nor too cold. During the
months of April, May and June the Thoothukudi district is hot. During winter,
that is, in the months of December and January, the climate is pleasant.
The average maximum temperature recorded is 35.70 C and the minimum is
24.50 C.
The rainfall is high in the coastal taluks namely Thoothukudi and
Tiruchendur. The average rainfall of the district is 655.7 mm but the actual
rainfall varies year to year, and the variation is large (District Statistical Hand
Book, 2008-09).
Table 3.2 reveals the rainfall in Thoothukudi district during 2002-‘03. When
the North East monsoon started, the actual rainfall recorded was higher up to
319.5 millimetres.
During the cold season it was very low that is, 41.7
millimetres.
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TABLE 3.2
RAINFALL – SEASON-WISE DURING 2008-09, THOOTHUKUDI
DISTRICT
(in millimetres)
Seasons
Period
Normal
Rainfall
46.6
Actual
Cold weather
Jan-Feb
Hot weather
March to May
112.2
108.6
South West monsoon
June to September
86.8
48.1
North East Monsoon
Oct to December
410.1
319.5
655.7
517.9
Total
41.7
Source: District Statistical Hand Book 2008 - 09, Thoothukudi District.
Irrigation
Tamirabarani, a perennial river irrigates about 19,000 hectares in the
Thoothukudi district, through 52 system tanks. The river rises from Agasthiar
Malai in Pothigai hills in the Western Ghats, passes down through,
Ambasamudram, Tirunelveli, Srivaikuntam and Tiruchendur taluks (the former
two taluks are in the Tirunelveli District) (the latter two taluks are in the
Thoothukudi district) and enters into the sea at Punnakayal (in the Thoothukudi
district) a place between Thoothukudi and Tiruchendur. The most fertile lands lie
on either sides of the river (Durairaj, 1998). The rest of the lands in other taluks
are dry lands. In the taluks of Tiruchendur, Srivaikuntam and some area of
Thoothukudi, there are windblown sandy belts, red in colour, with sand dunes,
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which are locally known as ‘Theri’.
The net area under irrigation through
government canal is 3,873 hectares; through tank irrigation, 18,040 hectares,
through tube wells 256 hectares and by other wells 20,406 hectares.
Agriculture
The district economy is largely agrarian. Important agricultural crops are
paddy, chillies, banana, cumbu, chenna and cotton. The total cultivated area in the
Thoothukudi district accounts 1,65,998 hectares of which the net area sown is
1,60,992 hectares and the rest is 5,006 hectares. (District Statistical Hand Book,
2008-09). The intensity of cropping is rather low, because most of the cultivated
land is rain fed.
Demographic Situation
In the 2001census, the Thoothukudi district had a population of 15,72,773
persons; of which 7,66,823 were males and 8,05,450 were females. The rural
population accounted for 9,07,500 persons while the urban population was
6,64,773. The density of population in the district was 340 persons per square
kilometre (District Statistical Hand Book, 2008-09). The total population of the
Tiruchendur taluk is 3,08,154 persons; of which 1,45,714 are males and 1,62,440
are females.
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TABLE 3.3
CLASSIFICATION OF AREA AND POPULATION BLOCK WISE IN
THOOTHUKUDI DISTRICT (2001 CENSUS)
(in number)
Population
Name of the Block
Area
(sq.k.m)
Thoothukudi
366
Persons
4,05,363
Srivaikuntam
244
1,12,440
54,799
57,641
Karunkulam
349
79,443
38,673
40,770
Tiruchendur
136
1,18,862
56,591
62,271
Udangudi
197
72,415
33,454
38,961
Alwarthirunagari
213
1,16,877
55,669
61,208
Satankulam
276
80,396
36,151
44,245
Ottapidaram
738
1,14,759
56,989
57,770
Kovilpatti
419
2,04,371
1,00,254
1,04,117
Kayathar
570
1,03,713
50,236
53,477
Vilathikulam
623
91,560
44,936
46,624
Pudur
490
71,810
35,439
36,371
4,621
15,72,773
7,66,823
8,05,450
Total
Source: Census Book, 2001, government of India.
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Male
2,03,368
Female
2,01,995
Industry
The Thoothukudi coastal area is well-known for salt manufacturing. At
Thoothukudi, the Central Government has a Research Centre for marine salt in
addition to the State Government’s units. There are two industrial estates in the
district, one at Kovilpatti and the other at Thoothukudi. The major industrial units
in the Thoothukudi district are Southern Petro Chemical Industries Corporation
(SPIC), Tuticorin Alcaline Company (TAC), Dharangadara Chemical Works
(DCW), Sterlite Copper Smelting Industries, Heavy Water Plant and Thermal
Power Project.
Literacy
The Thoothukudi district ranks second in literacy in the state with
81 percent of the population being literate.
TABLE 3.4
THE LITERACY RATE AS PER 2001 CENSUS
(in percentage)
Literacy Rate
Category
Male
Female
Total
Tamil Nadu
82.33
64.55
73.47
Thoothukudi
88.66
75.64
81.96
Source: Tamil Nadu – An Economic Appraisal, 2008-09, Department of Evaluation
and Applied Research (DEAR) Government of Tamil Nadu, Chennai,
pp.S4 – S5.
105
Employment
The total population of workers in the district is 6,73,682; of which male
workers are 4,30,386 and female workers are 2,43,296. The total number of rural
workers is 4,28,883 and that of urban is 2,44,799. The employment pattern shows
that there are 71,315 cultivators, 1,67,387 landless agricultural labourers, 45,783
persons in household industry and 3,89,197 other workers. There are 88,944
marginal workers and 89,206 non-workers (District Statistical Hand Book,
2008-09).
Fisheries
On the eastern border of Thoothukudi district, there are 24 coastal villages
ranging from Vembar to Periathazhi covering 135 kms. Marine fishing is one of
the sources of employment to the fisher folk. In 2001 the total population of the
fisher folk was 43,707 out of which 21,180 involved in fishing and marketing
operations. There were 20 fishermen co-operatives and 13 fisher women cooperatives in the Thoothukudi district. Fisher women were found engaged chiefly
in marketing fresh and dried fish. The per capita income per family was only
`6,573. A Fisheries College with Research Institute has been functioning since
1977 at Thoothukudi (District Statistical Hand Book, 2008-09).
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Forest
The total reserve forest area is 11,012 hectares. In the total forest products,
timber contributes 69.857 metric tonnes, fuel wood 13,273 metric tonnes and
cashew 5.24 tons.
Transport and Communication
The important towns and villages are well connected with a good network
of roads. The total length of roads in the Thoothukudi district is 4,705 km; of
which the length of surfaced and unsurfaced road is 4,556.373 and 148.698 km
respectively. The length of the National Highways in the Thoothukudi district is
112.4 km and that of the State Highways is 1,994.232 km. Municipality and
Municipal Corporation roads contribute to a total length of 202.106 km. The
district has 106.47 km length of railways. Thoothukudi is connected by Air
transport from June 1991 and the airport is located near Vagaikulam at a distance
of 15 kms from Thoothukudi.
There are 39 post offices doing postal business alone and 406 post offices
doing post and telegraph works. The district has 95,155 telephone connections,
with 3,689 public call offices and 69 telephone exchanges (District Statistical
Hand Book, 2008-09).
Port
The district has the pride of having a major Port, the Thoothukudi Harbour
Project renamed as the Thoothukudi Port Trust. During 2003-04, 1,517 vessels
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entered Thoothukudi port and cargo to the tune of 1.36 crore tones was handled.
Exports of certain raw materials and finished products are shipped to about 20
foreign countries. The Thoothukudi port has been issued the prestigious ISO 9002
certificate for port operation and services and has joined the select group of world
ports by becoming the first Indian major port to get such certificates.
From the foregoing section on the profile of the study area, it is clear that
the Thoothukudi district has people of different occupations and the majority of
the workers earn their income through agriculture. Most of the villages are rainfed areas and paddy and banana are cultivated mainly in the delta areas of the river
Thamirabarani. Agriculture is found to be the main occupation in the district. As
agricultural workers do not have regular employment throughout the year, they
have to earn their livelihood through other works during the off season.
3.4 Srivaikuntam Taluk Profile
Srivaikuntam taluk is located almost at the southern side of the district. On
the northern side, Ottapidaram and Thoothukudi taluks are situated.
Gulf of
Manner lies on the eastern side. Satankulam and Tiruchendur taluks are the
southern boundary of this taluk. To its western side lies Tirunelveli district. There
are two blocks, 36 revenue villages, 31 village panchayat and four town panchyat
in this taluk.
The climate is pleasant during September to December. During summer
that is April to June it is hot. With regard to education, there are five pre-primary
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schools, 75 primary schools, 15 middle schools, four high schools, three higher
secondary schools, one arts college, one engineering college, one agricultural
college and one polytechnic institution.
This taluk has a total area of 24 Sq. kilometers. As per the 2001 census,
the population of this taluk is 2,59,603 out of which the male population is
1,26,421 and the female population is 1,33,182.
The density of population is 223 sq. km. The number of females per 1000
males is 1074. The total number of work force in the taluk is 36,344 persons; of
which 21,115 are male workers and 15,229 are female workers. The percentage of
workforce to the total population is 45.91.
There are no medium or large scale industries in this taluk. Occupational
pattern shows that total number of cultivators is 16,645. Agricultural labourers
(15,905) constitute 43.76 per cent to the total work force. There are 7,759 male
agricultural workers and 8,146 female agricultural workers.
The total number of workers in cottage and households industries is 1,287
which contribute only 3.54 per cent to the total work force in the block. There are
391 male and 896 female workers in this category. Workers in other industries are
1,147. The numbers of male and female workers are 105 and 1,042 respectively.
They form 3.16 per cent of the total work force. Other workers are 6,048 or 16.64
per cent of the total work force.
109
The total length of roads in this taluk is 104.8 km. The length of tar roads is
38.5 km, and of metal roads is 50 km. The length of saral roads is 12.6 km and
the length of mud and unsurfaced roads is 3.7 km.
The main crops cultivated in the taluk are paddy, banana, groundnuts,
vegetables and fruits. Srivaikuntam taluk has few infrastructure facilities and the
cultivators mainly rely on the channel.
The net area sown in this taluk is 7,297 hectares. Current fallow and other
fallow lands account for 5,404 hectares. The area under barren and uncultivated
land is 2,819 hectares. The forest land occupies 12 hectares. The following tables
3.5 and 3.6 explain the area irrigated by crops and area irrigated by sources.
110
TABLE 3.5
AREA IRRIGATED BY CROPS (2008-09)
(in Hectare)
S. No
1.
Crop
Gross
Net
3,678
2,193
6
6
2
1
414
414
Castor (Jetropha)
3
3
Neem
7
7
12
12
Sugarcane
17
17
Chillies (Dry)
43
43
Cardamom (Tamarind)
36
36
Areca nut Palm
188
188
Banana
4,196
4,196
Total Irrigated Area
8,782
7,297
Cereals
Paddy
Blackgram
2.
Pulses
Groundnut
3.
Oilseeds
Coconut
4.
Fibres
Cotton (Lint)
5.
Other Crops
Source: Taluk Statistical Hand Book, 2008-09, Srivaikuntam Taluk.
111
TABLE 3.6
AREA IRRIGATED BY SOURCES (2008-09)
Area (in ha)
S. No
1.
Source
Number
Gross
Net
Surface Water
1. Tanks
Large
46
2019
1712
Small
150
572
572
Major and Medium
2
5054
3925
Minor
44
944
691
1. Public Tube Wells
57
153
145
2. Private Tube Wells
28
153
145
2. Flow Irrigation
2.
Ground Water
3. Dug Wells
1070
4. Pump sets – electricity Operated
57
Source: Taluk Statistical Hand Book, 2008-09, Srivaikuntam Taluk.
3.4.1 Srivaikuntam Block
A short description of Srivaikuntam block is presented in this subdivision.
Srivaikuntam block is located almost at the southern side of the district. On the
northern side, Ottapidaram and Thoothukudi taluks are situated. Gulf of Manner
lies on the eastern side. Satankulam and Tiruchendur taluks from the southern
boundary of this taluk and Karunkulam block lies in the western region.
are 36 village panchayats in this block.
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There
Size of the Population
The growth of population is increasing year after year. Due to the rapid
growth of population, poor socio-economic conditions become prevalent. The
following table shows the size of the population of the study area as per the census
report 2001.
TABLE 3.7
SIZE OF THE POPULATION IN SRIVAIKUNTAM BLOCK
Sex
Population
Size
Percentage to
Total Population
Male
93,472
48.71
Female
98,411
51.29
Total
1,91,883
100.00
Source: Srivaikuntam Block Hand Book, 2008-09.
The above table shows that the total population in this block is 1,91,883 of
which the male population is 93,472 and the female is 98,411.
The female
population is higher than that of the male.
In Srivaikuntam block, the climate is pleasant during September to
December. During summer (April to June) it remains is hot. With regard to
education, there are five pre-primary schools, 48 primary schools, 15 middle
schools, four high schools, three higher secondary schools, one arts college, one
engineering college, one agricultural college and one polytechnic institution.
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The density of population is 232 per sq. km. The number of females per
1000 males is 1069. The total number of work force in the block is 26,495
persons out of which 15,897 are male workers and 10,598 are female workers.
The percentage of workforce to the total population is 13.81.
There are no medium or large scale industries in this block. Occupational
pattern shows that total number of cultivators is 7,505. Agricultural labourers
(14,536) constitute 54.86 per cent to the total work force. There are 8,722 male
agricultural workers and 5,814 female agricultural workers. Other workers are
4,454 or 16.64 per cent of the total work force.
3.4.2 Karunkulam Block
A short description of Karunkulam is presented in this subdivision.
Karunkulam block is located almost at the southern side of the district. On the
northern side, Ottapidaram block is situated.
Thoothukudi and Srivaikuntam
blocks lie on the eastern side. Satankulam and Alwarthirunagari blocks are the
eastern boundary of this block. To its southern side, Tirunelveli district lies. There
are 33 village panchayats in this block.
Size of Population
The following table shows the size of the population of the study area as
per the Census Report 2001.
114
TABLE: 3.8
SIZE OF THE POPULATION IN KARUNKULAM BLOCK
Population
Percentage to
Sex
Size
Total Population
Male
38,673
48.68
Female
40,770
51.32
Total
79,443
100.00
Source: Karunkulam Block Hand Book, 2008-09.
This block has a total area of 348.90 Sq. kilometers. As per the 2001
census, the population of this block is 79,443 out of which the male population is
38,673 and the female population is 40,770. The number of SC/ST is 21,459, that
are 27 per cent of the total population.
The climate is pleasant during September to December. During summer
that is, April to June it is hot. With regard to education, there are 74 primary
schools, 15 middle schools, six high schools, four higher secondary schools and
three matriculation schools.
The density of population is 223 sq. km. The number of females per 1000
males is 1074. The total number of work force in the block is 34,104 persons out
of which 20,433 are male workers and 13,671 are female workers. The percentage
of workforce to the total population is 65.18.
There are no medium or large scale industries in this block. Occupational
pattern shows that total number of cultivators is 9,140. Agricultural labourers
115
(15,822) constitute 46.39 per cent to the total work force. There are 7,676 male
agricultural workers and 8,146 female agricultural workers. The total number of
workers in cottage and households industries is 2,912 which contribute only 8.54
per cent to the total work force in the block. There are 1,434 male and 1,478
female workers in this category. Workers in other industries are 2,320. The
numbers of male and female workers are 2,212 and 108 respectively. They form
6.80 per cent of the total work force.
The total number of literates is 52,326 out of which, 28,571 are male (that
is, 54.60 per cent of the total male population) and 23,755 are women (that is,
45.40 per cent of the total population).
The total length of roads in this block is 163.6 km. The length of tar roads
is 123.10 km, and of metal roads is 25.10 km. The length of saral roads is 12 km
and the length of mud roads is 3.4 km.
The main crops cultivated in the block are paddy, banana, groundnuts,
vegetables and fruits. Karunkulam block has few infrastructure facilities and the
cultivators mainly rely on the channel. The net area sown in this block is 10,000
hectares. Current fallow and other fallow lands account for 1,112 hectares. The
area under barren and uncultivated land is 2,742 hectares. The forested land
occupies 135 hectares.
116
Cultivation Particulars of the Sample Villages in Srivaikuntam Block
Table 3.9 gives the picture of cropping intensity and gross cultivable area
for paddy and banana in the selected 10 villages in Srivaikuntam block. In
Srivaikuntam block, Maramangalam village has 114.7 per cent of cropping
intensity whereas Srivaikuntam village has 103.5 per cent. In the present study,
paddy and banana were selected to analyse the energy use pattern in agriculture.
The gross cultivated area for paddy was 51.5 per cent in Maramangalam village
and 4.4 per cent in Velur kaspa village of the total area. The gross cultivated area
for banana was 86.2 per cent in Thollappanpannai village against 3.9 per cent in
Kelurkaspa village. The overall gross cultivated area for paddy was 27.7 per cent
and that for banana was 40.5 per cent in Srivaikuntam block.
117
TABLE 3.9
CROP CULTIVATION PARTICULARS OF THE SAMPLE
VILLAGES IN SRIVAIKUNTAM BLOCK
Sl.
No.
Name of the
Village
Area in
Hectare
Net
Area
Sown
Cross
Gross
Gross
Cultivated Cultivated
Cultivated
Area
Area
Area
under
under
Paddy
Banana
1
Velur Kaspa
926
273.610
302.450
13.075
223.510
2.
Maramangalam
631
432.710
496.430
255.690
149.350
3.
Siruthonda Nallur
401
99.110
110.210
13.495
82.710
4.
Iruvappapuram
1712
271.120
296.120
113.475
140.205
5.
Thollappanpannai
667
189.110
198.430
13.970
170.880
6.
Vallavallan
402
201.310
212.310
12.010
179.900
7.
Korkai
526
185.120
199.120
12.005
163.845
8.
Sawyerpuram
429
176.430
191.310
13.050
155.890
9.
Eral
2152
511.120
565.130
232.985
248.190
10.
Srivaikuntam
2418
282.430
292.340
112.100
145.845
10264
2622.070
2863.850
791.855
1660.325
Source: Block “G” Return and Records of the village Administrative officers.
Cultivation Particulars of the Sample Villages in Karunkulam Block
Table 3.10 shows the cropping intensity in the selected villages. In block,
Singatha Kurichi village has 133.3 per cent of cropping intensity against
Karunkulam village. The gross cultivated area under paddy was 52.5 per cent in
118
Vallanad Kaspa village whereas 8.6 per cent of that in Singathakurichi village of
the total area. The gross cultivated area for banana is 61.1 per cent in Arampannai
village against 27.0 per cent in Vallanad kaspa village of the total area. The overall
gross cultivated area for paddy was 36.0 per cent and banana was 41.9 per cent in
Karunkulam block.
TABLE 3.10
CULTIVATION PARTICULARS OF THE SAMPLE VILLAGES IN
KARUNKULAM BLOCK
Sl.
No.
Name of the
Village
Area in
Hectare
Net
Area
Sown
Gross
Cultivated
Area
Cross
Cultivated
Area under
Paddy Area
in Hec.
Gross
Cultivated
Area under
Banana
Area in Hec.
1
Alanda
1261
172.010
205.890
38.130
110.115
2.
Sekkarakudi
2992
206.110
236.190
68.560
115.210
3.
Singathakurichi
2271
99.310
132.340
11.310
55.110
4.
Ellainacickenpatti
720
142.430
164.130
56.130
60.210
5.
Vallanadkaspa
640
367.120
410.320
215.430
111.139
6.
Vasavappapuram
443
223.010
246.010
115.130
91.021
7.
Manakarai
1095
98.110
110.210
16.140
61.310
8.
Aram Pannai
291
160.130
180.680
40.130
110.410
9.
Karunkulam
1367
468.210
496.210
232.130
210.110
10.
Serakulam
2223
162.130
189.110
61.100
32.3
13303
2098.570
2371.090
854.190
994.945
Source: Block “G” Return and Records of the village Administrative officers.
119
3.5 Characteristics of Sample Farmers
This section attempts to describe the socio-economic factors of the sample
farmers, which influence the energy use pattern in paddy and banana cultivation in
the study area. Though there are many socio-economic factors, the present study
confines itself to age, education, family size, participation of family members,
operational holdings, cropping pattern and experience in farm activities.
3.5.1 Farmers Cultivating Paddy
5.5.1.1 Age-wise Distribution of the Sample Farmers Cultivating Paddy
Age is an important factor in deciding the allocation of resources, so as to
achieve maximum yield. The age-wise distribution of the sample farmers
cultivating paddy is shown in Table 3.11.
From Table 3.11, it is clear that 42.71 per cent of the sample farmers were
in the age group of 40-50 years. Among the small farmers, 41.94 per cent were in
the age group of 40-50 while in the case of large farmers, it was 44.12 per cent.
Further, the table shows that 8.85 per cent of farmers were in the age group of less
than 30 years.
120
TABLE 3.11
AGE-WISE DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLE FARMERS
CULTIVATING PADDY
Number of Respondents
Age in Years
Below 30
30 - 40
40 - 50
50 - 60
60 and above
Total
Small
Farmer
13
(10.48)
38
(30.65)
52
(41.94)
13
(10.48)
8
(7.45)
124
(100.00)
Large
Farmer
4
(5.88)
13
(19.12)
30
(44.12)
12
(17.65)
9
(13.24)
68
(100.0)
Total
17
(8.85)
51
(26.56)
82
(42.71)
25
(13.02)
17
(8.85)
192
(100.00)
Source: Survey Data.
Note : Figure in brackets is percentages to total.
3.5.1.2 Educational Status of the Sample Farmers Cultivating Paddy
The optimum utilisation of energy inputs is determined mainly by the
educational status of the farmers. From the sample farmers, it is observed that
most of the farmers were found to be educated by the Department of Agriculture
and they generated more output by introducing intensive methods of cultivation.
Table 3.12 shows the educational status of the sample farmers.
121
TABLE 3.12
EDUCATIONAL STATUS OF SAMPLE FARMERS
CULTIVATING PADDY
Number of Respondents
Educational Status
Illiterate
Primary Education
Secondary Education
College Education
Total
Small
Farmer
33
(32.61)
58
(46.77)
19
(15.32)
14
(11.29)
124
(100.00)
Large
Farmer
18
(26.71)
29
(42.65)
17
(25.00)
4
(5.88)
68
(100.00)
Total
51
(26.56)
87
(45.31)
36
(18.75)
18
(9.38)
192
(100.00)
Source: Survey Data.
Note : Figure in brackets is percentages to total.
From Table 3.12, out of 192 sample farmers 51 of them (26.56 per cent)
were illiterate. The percentage of those educated up to the primary school level
was higher among small farmers (46.77 per cent) than among large farmers (42.65
per cent). While in the case of college level those educated up to the large farmers
had a little higher percentage (5.88 per cent) than the small farmers (11.29 per
cent).
3.5.1.3 Sex-wise Distribution of Sample Farmers Cultivating Paddy
It is revealed that 85.42 per cent of the sample farmers were males and
remaining 14.58 per cent was females (Table 3.13).
122
TABLE 3.13
SEX-WISE DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLE FARMERS
CULTIVATING PADDY
Number of Respondents
Sex
Male
Female
Total
Small
Farmer
104
(83.87)
20
(16.13)
124
(100.00)
Large
Farmer
60
(88.24)
8
(11.76)
68
(100.00)
Total
164
(85.42)
28
(14.58)
192
(100.00)
Source: Survey Data
Note : Figures in brackets are percentages to total.
In the farming operations, women small farmers’ contribution was higher
(16.13 per cent) than women large farmers (11.76 per cent). It was observed an
over domination of males was found only in the cultivation of paddy.
3.5.1.4 Family Size of Farmers Cultivating Paddy
The size of the family has been an important factor to determine the
requirements of family labour in paddy cultivation. The family size of sample
farmers is presented in Table 3.14.
123
TABLE 3.14
FAMILY SIZE OF SAMPLE FARMERS CULTIVATING PADDY
Number of Respondents
Family Size
Below 4
4-6
6-8
8 and above
Total
Small
Farmer
61
(48.19)
41
(32.06)
15
(12.10)
7
(5.65)
124
(100.00)
Large
Farmer
21
(30.88)
34
(50.00)
11
(16.18)
2
(2.93)
68
(100.00)
Total
82
(42.91)
75
(39.06)
26
(13.54)
9
(4.69)
192
(100.00)
Source: Survey Data
Note : Figures in brackets are percentages to total.
From Table 3.14, it is clear that, in the study area, 42.91 per cent of the
total sample farmers had a family size of less than 4 members and only 4.69 per
cent had a family size of above 8 members.
3.5.1.5 Number of Family Members Participating in the Cultivation of
Paddy
The level of family members’ participation has been a factor to determine
the high yield of paddy. The reason is that they involve themselves sincerely
irrespective of time spent on farming operation.
This minimises the cost of
production also. Table 3.15 shows the number of family members engaged in
paddy cultivation.
124
TABLE 3.15
NUMBER OF FAMILY MEMBERS PARTICIPATING IN
CULTIVATING PADDY
Number of Respondents
Particulars
Below 2
2-4
4-6
6 and above
Total
Small
Farmer
27
(21.77)
47
(37.90)
41
(33.67)
9
(7.26)
124
(100.00)
Large
Farmer
25
(36.68)
34
(50.00)
8
(10.46)
1
(0.77)
68
(100.00)
Total
52
(27.08)
81
(42.19)
49
(25.52)
10
(5.20)
192
(100.00)
Source: Survey Data
Note : Figures in brackets are percentages to total.
Table 3.15 reveals that 69.27 per cent of the sample farmers have utilized
one to four members from their family in Paddy cultivation. Further the table
shows that small farmers used more family members in various activities of paddy
cultivation than that of large farmers.
3.5.1.6 Farming Experience of Sample Farmers Cultivating Paddy
The experience of farmers in the cultivation of paddy is one of the deciding
factors for the rational allocation of different inputs for paddy cultivation.
Table 3.16 shows the classification of sample farmers based on their farming
experience.
125
TABLE 3.16
EXPERIENCE OF THE SAMPLE FARMERS CULTIVATING
PADDY
Number of Respondents
Experience in
Years
Less than 5
5 – 10
10 – 15
15 – 20
Total
Small
Farmer
20
(16.13)
46
(36.10)
53
(42.74)
5
(4.03)
124
(100.00)
Large
Farmer
20
(29.41)
25
(36.77)
21
(30.88)
2
(2.94)
68
(100.00)
Overall
40
(20.83)
71
(36.98)
74
(38.54)
7
(3.65)
192
(100.00)
Source: Survey Data
Note: Figures in brackets represent percentage to total.
It is observed from Table 3.16 that 36.98 per cent and 38.54 per cent of the
sample farmer had the experience of 5-10 years and 10–15 years respectively. The
farmer having experience of less than 5 years formed 20.83 per cent. Only five
per cent of farmers had experience of 15-20 years.
3.5.2 Farmers Cultivating Banana
3.5.2.1 Age-wise Distribution of Sample Farmers Cultivating Banana
The most important factor that influences farming operation particularly the
cultivation of banana is to achieve maximum yield. The age-wise distribution of
sample farmer is given in Table 3.17.
126
TABLE 3.17
AGE-WISE DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLE FARMERS
CULTIVATING BANANA
Number of Respondents
Age in Years
Below 30
30-40
40-50
50-60
60 and above
Total
Small
Farmer
16
(11.27)
34
(24.04)
63
(44.37)
16
(11.27)
13
(9.15)
142
(100.00)
Large
Farmer
6
(6.38)
16
(17.02)
39
(41.49)
21
(22.34)
12
(12.77)
94
(100.00)
Total
22
(9.32)
50
(21.19)
102
(43.22)
37
(15.67)
25
(10.59)
236
(100.00)
Source: Survey Data.
Note : Figure in brackets is percentages to total.
Table 3.17 shows that 64.41 per cent of the farmers were in the age group
of 30-50 years. The age group of 40-50 years was relatively higher in the case of
small farmers (44.37 per cent) than in the case of large farmers (41.49 per cent).
The farmers below 30 years constituted only 10 per cent to the total farmer. Those
above 50 years was only 10.59 per cent.
3.5.2.2 Educational Status of Sample Farmers Cultivating Banana
Educational status of the farmers influences the method of cultivation, farm
management and the like. Table 3.18 shows the distribution of sample respondents
based upon their educational level.
127
TABLE 3.18
EDUCATIONAL STATUS OF SAMPLE FARMERS
CULTIVATING BANANA
Number of Respondents
Educational Status
Illiterate
Primary Education
Secondary Education
College Education
Total
Small
Farmer
25
(17.61)
67
(47.18)
44
(30.99)
6
(4.23)
142
(100)
Large
Farmer
10
(10.64)
43
(45.75)
29
(30.85)
12
(12.77)
94
(100)
Total
35
(14.83)
110
(46.61)
73
(30.93)
18
(7.63)
236
(100)
Source: Survey Data.
Note : Figure in brackets is percentages to total.
Table 3.18 shows that 61.44 per cent of the farmers in the study area had
primary and secondary education, followed by those with college level education
(7.63 per cent). The illiterate farmers were 14.83 per cent to the total. The
primary education percentage was higher among small farmers (47.18 per cent)
than large farmers (45.75 per cent). In the college level education, a higher
percentage was found in the case of large farmers (12.77 per cent) than in the case
of small farmers (4.23 per cent).
3.5.2.3 Sex-wise Distribution of Sample Farmers Cultivating Banana
Table 3.19 shows the sex-wise distribution of sample farmers cultivating
banana.
128
TABLE 3.19
SEX-WISE DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLE FARMERS
CULTIVATING BANANA
Sex
Male
Female
Total
Number of Respondents
Small
Farmer
116
(81.69)
26
(18.31)
142
(100)
Large
Farmer
82
(87.23)
12
(12.77)
94
(100.00)
Total
198
(83.39)
38
(16.11)
236
(100)
Source: Survey Data
Note : Figures in brackets are percentages to total.
From Table 3.19, it is inferred that the majority of sample farmers, that is,
83.39 per cent were males and the remaining 16.11 per cent were females.
Further, in the case of large farmers only 12.77 per cent of the female were
engaged in banana cultivation. The females were found to be more in the category
of small farmers (18.31 per cent) than in the category of large farmers (12.77
per cent).
It is clear that more males (83.39 per cent) participated than females
(16.11 per cent) in the cultivation of banana.
3.5.2.4 Family Size of Sample Farmers Cultivating Banana
The family size has been the most important factor in determining the
requirements of family labour in farming operations. The family size of the small
and large farmers in the study area is given in Table 3.20.
129
TABLE 3.20
FAMILY SIZE OF SAMPLE FARMERS CULTIVATING
BANANA
Number of Respondents
Family Size
Below 2
2-4
4-6
6 and above
Total
Small
Farmer
16
(11.27)
96
(67.61)
18
(12.68)
12
(8.45)
142
(100)
Large
Farmer
25
(26.60)
21
(22.34)
43
(45.75)
5
(5.32)
94
(100)
Total
41
(17.37)
117
(49.58)
61
(25.85)
17
(7.20)
236
(100)
Source: Survey Data
Note : Figures in brackets are percentages to total
From Table 3.20 it is clear that nearly 66.95 per cent of the farmers had a
family size of 2 to 4 members while eight per cent of the farmers had a family size
of more than 6. The family size of 4-6 was found high in the case of large farmers
constituting 45.75 per cent to the total. In the case of small farmers it was only
12.68 per cent to the total.
3.5.2.5 Number of Family Members Participating in the Cultivation of
Banana
Family labour has been the most important factor that determined
productivity. The reason is that they work hard and sincerely, irrespective of time
130
spent on farms. Table 3.21 shows the number of family members engaged in
Banana cultivation.
TABLE 3.21
NUMBER OF FAMILY MEMBERS PARTICIPATED IN
CULTIVATING BANANA
Number of Respondents
Family Size
Below 2
2-4
4-6
6 and above
Total
Small
Farmer
33
(23.45)
52
(36.62)
44
(30.99)
13
(9.15)
142
(100)
Large
Farmer
25
(26.60)
45
(47.87)
18
(19.15)
6
(6.38)
94
(100)
Total
58
(24.58)
97
(41.10)
62
(26.27)
13
(5.51)
236
(100)
Source: Survey Data
Note : Figures in brackets are percentages to total.
Table 3.21 shows that 65 per cent of the sample farmers had utilised 1 to 4
of their family members in the cultivation of banana. It is inferred from the table
that small farmers used more family labour than the large farmers.
3.5.2.6 Farming Experience of Sample Farmers Cultivating Banana
The success of cultivation of banana depends on the experience of the
farmers. Table 3.22 shows the classification of sample farmers based on their
farming experience.
131
TABLE 3.22
EXPERIENCE OF SAMPLE FARMERS CULTIVATING BANANA
Number of Respondents
Experience in
Years
Less than 5
5 – 10
10 – 15
15 – 20
Total
Small
Farmer
21
(14.79)
44
(30.98)
62
(43.66)
15
(11.56)
142
(100.00)
Large
Farmer
33
(35.11)
20
(21.28)
35
(37.23)
6
(6.38)
94
(100.00)
Overall
54
(22.88)
64
(27.12)
97
(41.10)
21
(8.89)
236
(100.00)
Source: Survey Data
Note : Figures in brackets represent percentages to total.
From Table 3.22, it is inferred that 41.10 per cent of the total sample
farmers had a farming experience of 10-15 years. Only 22.88 per cent had less
than 5 years experience.
Those who had 15 to 20 years of experience are
accounted to 8.89 per cent.
In the Srivaikuntam taluk, two blocks namely Srivaikuntam and
Karunkulam were taken for the study. From the two blocks, a total sample of 428
households was taken for this study. Farmers from ten villages in these two
blocks (in a descending order) cultivating for both paddy and banana were chosen
for selection of sample farmers.
132