Adoption of Technical Advice and Dairy Income in Karnataka: Evidence from Population-Based Survey Data

Abstract

Regional income disparities emerge from the analyses of dairy income of agricultural households in Karnataka, estimated across state-regions using nationally representative microdata. The study distinguishes between sources of technical advice actually adopted (veterinary department, dairy co-operatives, and radio) by farmers and explores the channels of advice that actually translate into income gains. The results reveal that only co-operative-based technical advice enhances dairy income, while veterinary and media-based advice does not. The analysis further highlights income disparities for households belonging to the OBC group and those residing in the Coastal & Ghats region of the state. Targeted policy support based on the findings of the study can help boost dairy income of farmers in Karnataka.