The impact of crop diversification towards high-value crops on economic welfare of agricultural households in eastern India

Eastern India is among the most backward regions of the country with underutilized agricultural potential. Diversification towards high-value crops can be a promising strategy to enhance farmers' economic welfare in the region. The present study analyses the major determinants and impact of crop diversification towards high-value crops on farmers' economic welfare in the region using large farm household-level data and advanced matching estimation methods. The findings reveal that cultivation of high-value crops plays a significant role in enhancing farm income, consumption expenditure and reducing poverty. Growers need to allocate at least 40% area for high-value crops to have significant income enhancement and poverty reduction.