Title: COMPARATIVE PERCEPTION ANALYSIS OF OFF-SEASON VS. SEASONAL VEGETABLE CULTIVATION: A SOCIO-ECONOMIC PERSPECTIVE

Authors: Vishita Khanna and Y. A. Lad

Publisher: The President, Society of Extension Education Gujarat

Keywords: off-season cultivation, farmers' perception, socio-economic factors

Volume: 41

Issue: 1

Year: June 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56572/gjoee.2026.41.1.0004

Abstract: This study examines farmers' perceptions of seasonal and off-season vegetable cultivation in the distinct agroclimatic regions of North and South Gujarat. Vegetables constitute a critical component of agricultural diversification, and understanding farmer perceptions is essential for designing effective extension and policy support systems. With rising vegetable demand and steadily shrinking cultivable land, off-season cultivation has emerged as a viable and increasingly important strategy to enhance farm income and optimize resource utilization throughout the year. The research aims to analyse the socio-economic profiles of farmers, assess their perceptions of both cultivation methods, and explore the relationship between perception and demographic variables. Primary data were collected from 300 farmers, 150 each practicing seasonal cultivation and 150 practicing off-season cultivation using a structured interview schedule. The sample was purposively selected from representative districts across North and South Gujarat to capture the diversity in agro-climatic conditions, farming practices, and socio-economic backgrounds. Descriptive statistics, Likert scale analysis, and Pearson's correlation coefficient were employed for analysis. Results revealed that farmers perceive off-season cultivation as profitable venture capable of ensuring food security and beneficial for year-round employment generation. However, concerns regarding input costs, technical complexity, and risk remain. Seasonal cultivation continues to be favoured for its alignment with natural conditions, stable output, and lower risk. The study found significant positive correlations between education, age, and perception in seasonal cultivation, whereas off-season cultivation was less influenced by socio-economic variables. The findings underscore the need for region-specific interventions, capacity building, and market access to support wider adoption of off-season cultivation. Strengthening institutional support through cooperative networks, subsidized inputs, and access to credit can further incentivize farmers to transition toward or complement seasonal cultivation with off-season practices. A balanced approach integrating both systems can enhance agricultural resilience and rural livelihoods.