Assessing the adoption and outcomes of early-sown wheat varieties in Northwest India

Abstract

This study explores the adoption and outcomes of early-sown wheat (ESW) varieties in India's northwestern plains, utilizing survey data from 1,206 wheat-farming households in Punjab and Haryana. Building on the data-powered positive deviance approach, we identified early adopters of ESW varieties as positive deviants. The empirical analysis focused on uncovering their attributes, perceptions, practices, and challenges in switching from traditional cultivation to ESW. Logistic regression identified factors associated with ESW adoption, while propensity score matching and Heckman two-stage estimation compared yields attained during the early sowing window. The findings indicate that two of the three evaluated ESW varieties significantly outperform traditional varieties in yield. Information constraints were a key barrier to adoption. Moreover, factors including education, prior experience with similar varieties, familiarity with zero-tillage, risk aversion, and early rice harvesting correlated with higher adoption rates. Among adopters, seed and information sources, sowing time, and irrigation methods were linked to higher yields. Overall, bridging knowledge gaps via targeted information campaigns, support services, and the promotion of zero-tillage technologies are crucial for fostering widespread adoption of ESW varieties. Implementing these policy recommendations may strengthen agricultural resilience and enhance food security in India amid climate challenges.