Year: 2026 | Month: March | Volume 71 | Issue 1
Constraints to Organic Farming Adoption among Small and Marginal Farmers in the Low Hill Region of Himachal Pradesh
Jasmeet Kaur
Ankit Yadav
Harbans Lal and Rakesh Singh
DOI:10.46852/0424-2513.1.2026.12
Abstract:
Organic farming is increasingly recognized as a sustainable alternative to conventional agriculture; however, its adoption remains constrained by multiple challenges, particularly in hilly regions. This study examined the major constraints faced by farmers practicing organic farming in the low hill districts of Kangra and Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh. A total of 120 farmers, comprising 70 marginal and 50 small farmers, were selected through proportionate random sampling. Primary data were collected through personal interviews using pre-tested schedules, while percentage analysis and Chi-square tests were employed for interpretation. The findings revealed that production-related constraints were dominated by difficulties in managing weeds, pests, and diseases organically (75%), non-availability of quality seeds (66.67%), and low productivity (66.67%). High labour wages (70%) and labour shortages (63.33%) further intensified production challenges. Institutional constraints included high certification costs, longer conversion periods, and difficulty in fulfilling certification norms (88.33%). Marketing issues such as lack of market information (91.67%), low marketable surplus (85%), and high transportation costs (83.33%) were also significant. Additionally, monkey menace (83.33%) and stray animals (81.67%) emerged as major miscellaneous constraints. The Chi-square results indicated no significant differences in constraints faced by marginal and small farmers. The study highlights the need for policy support, simplified certification procedures, improved extension services, and better market infrastructure to promote sustainable organic farming in Himachal Pradesh.
Highlights
- Pest and weed management remained the major production constraint.
- Certification barriers hindered organic farming adoption.
- Poor market access reduced farmers’ returns.
- Wildlife damage caused significant crop losses.
- Policy support is essential for sustainable organic growth.
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