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Technical efficiency of rice in community-managed natural farming vs. conventional farming in Andhra Pradesh, India

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  • Jyothirmai Balla
  • Kishor Goswami

Abstract

This study compared the technical efficiency of natural farming (NF) and conventional farming (CF) using 23 variables across structural, functional, sociological, and agronomic indicators. A total of 1,000 farmers (500 NF and 500 CF) were selected through multistage sampling and interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) reduced multicollinearity among variables, and Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA) using the derived components offered a novel way to assess efficiency. Results showed that natural farms were slightly more efficient (86.5 per cent) than conventional farms (85.1 per cent). Seven principal components were identified for both farming systems, isolating key efficiency drivers. Recommendations include promoting extension services for natural farming–specialised rural youth, facilitating credit access during the transition to natural farming, providing interest-free cattle loans, and incorporating bio-input advisories into soil health cards. While conventional farming demonstrated higher efficiency on large farms, farmers should be encouraged to adopt agroecological practices like natural farming for long-term sustainability and environmental benefits.

Suggested Citation

  • Jyothirmai Balla & Kishor Goswami, 2026. "Technical efficiency of rice in community-managed natural farming vs. conventional farming in Andhra Pradesh, India," Development in Practice, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 36(2), pages 252-266, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:cdipxx:v:36:y:2026:i:2:p:252-266
    DOI: 10.1080/09614524.2025.2565620
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