Farmers’ Attitude and Preference towards Crop Diversification with Maize in Haryana

The study concluded that the scheme 'Mera Pani Meri Virasat' is proved helpful in crop diversification of paddy with maize. Farmers showed that armyworm in maize deteriorate the quality of maize which demotes the crop diversification from paddy with maize. The government’s assistance of Rs.7000/-per acre is less as compared to economic loss resulting from the attack of armyworms on maize. The farmers preferred the replacement of paddy with maize due to maize being fully mechanized as compared to paddy (partially mechanized)' followed by leaching of nitrate and pesticides in paddy field resulting in groundwater pollution. Farmers also preferred maize because of its’ Less water requirement characteristics, as compared to paddy. Maize crop is more suitable for livestock as it is being used as green fodder for animals, easily decomposable, and can be used for mushroom production also. The attitude of farmers towards diversification showed that Minimum Support Price of maize crop should be increased and procurement may be ensured by the government.