Vol. 12, Issue 2 (2023)

Author(s):
Kadiri Mohan

Abstract:
Niger crop is an important traditionally cultivated crop since decades in the hilly and tribal agency mandals of Alluri Seetharama Raju district of Andhra Pradesh. Tribal farmers cultivate Niger crop following the decades old traditional practices which are unique and specific to their location. A case study was carried out during the year 2020-21 to document the various Niger crop cultivation practices being followed by the tribal farmers from seed to seed along with reasons why they practice so. Some cultivation practices observed include, constantly using self-crop seed, meager land tillage, broadcasting method of sowing, application of FYM, non- usage of fertilizers and pesticides, no weeding operations and fairly harvesting whatever the yield they reap. To comprehend the various foci of Niger cultivation in hilly areas by tribal farmers SWOT analysis was carried out. SWOT analysis results indicated that, there are positive aspects in choosing farmers cultivating Niger crop like high suitability of this crop to their area; traditionally owned by them to cultivating crop as a pride; and heritage, requires no high cost inputs; more alternate uses; and tourism linked crop. The negative aspects under weaknesses sector of SWOT include, there was no demand for the Niger produce, low market rate, non-availability of advanced seed lines and acute cuscuta weed problem. The threats identified comprise of, Niger oil consumption by tribal households was replaced with other low cost oils available in markets; low economic returns and Niger crop area replaced with other crops like Rajmash. The documented negative aspects and threats identified in cultivation of Niger crop in the present study may aid to develop some strategies to encourage tribal farmers to cultivate Niger crop and also to create awareness on latest production technologies through extension activities.