CHAPTER - III Study Area and its Arecanut Economy Socio Economic Profile of District: Geographv;- The district of South Canara in is popularly known as “Dakshina Jille”V It is situated on the western coast of India about half way between Mumbai and Capecomerin. From north to south, it is a long strip of territory and from east to west; it is a broken low plateau, which spreads between Western Ghats and Arabian Sea. It lies between 12®-17° and 13°-58° north longitudes and between 74°-35° and 75°-40° east longitudes having a geographical area of 4,843 square kilometers, vviiich is shown in table 3.1. The district is surrounded by North Canara on its North, the districts of Shimoga, Chickmagalore and Hassan in the East, Coorg and Kasaragod district of Kerala in the South and Arabian Sea in the West, Mangalore is its head quarters. The area is intersected by many rivers, streams and presents varied picturesque scenery. Abundant vegetation, extensive forest, numerous growers of arecanut and coconut palms along with the coast at area and rice field in every valley provide a refreshing greenness to the prospect. It is a most densely inhabited tract. The district comprises of Mangalore, Bantwal, Belthangady Puttur and Sullia taluks. Till 1998, the Udupi district was incorporated into the stream of undivided South Canara district. Climate and Rainfall: - The climate of this district is characterised by high rainfall^aterJ^miidity with a little seasonal variation in temperature. The southwest monsoon season is the coolest part of the year with minimum daily temperature below 29°c and March, April, May be considered as the hottest months of the year, the humidity is high throughout the year and particularly in the south monsoon months. The average rainfall in the district is 3,930

* South Canara was the previous name of the district. It was renamed as district in 31-10-1977 — Economic and Social Survey of Dakshina Kannada (1988-89), District Statistical office, Mangalore 1992, - P-2.

92 Table No. 3.1 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES OF SOUTH CANARA ALONG WITH STATE FIGURES

KARNATAKA SOUTH CANARA SL. NO. ITEMS STATE DISTRICT 1 Geographical Areas in sq.kms(2001 ) 191,791 4,843 2 Population (2001 ) Male 26,856,343 937,651 Female 25,877,615 958,752 Total 52,733,958 1,896,403 3 Density of population 275 337 4 Rainfall ( Normal) ( 1999) in m.m 932 3,010 5 Forest ( 1000 h e )(1999 ) 3,063 128 6 No. of Talukas 175 5 7 No. of Panchayats 5,692 208 8 No. of Towns 270 8 9 No. of inhabited villages 27,575 371 10 Income at 97 - 98 prices ( in lakhs) 68,73,751 6,09,630 11 Per capita Income (In Rupees) 10,665 9,384 12 No. of Commercial Banks 3,608 296 13 No. of Regional Rural Banks 1,102 11 14 No. of Co-operative Societies 4,350 165 15 Regulated Markets 429 8 16 Road Length (2000 )Kms 1,42,801 3,399 17 State Highways 11,037 338.45 18 Major Dist. Road ( Kms) 28,361 1,471 19 Post Offices 9,852 447 20 Telephone Exchanges 2,239 168 21 No. of Health centres 331 8 22 No. of Vehicles 33,51,076 1,50,868 23 No. of Cenema Theaters 1,238 25 24 No. ofK.S.R.T.C. Buses 5,397 556 25 Fair Price Shops 20,292 577 26 Small Scale Units 2,52,671 16,372 27 Cultivators 59,15,633 10,086 28 Agricultural labourers 49,99,959 89,095 29 Mining 1,16,369 2,770 30 Manufacturing in Household Industries 3,22,151 5,634 31 Trade / Commerce 13,79,954 72,998 32 Education Literacy Rate ( 2001 ) 67.04% 83.47% Source ; Statistical Economic Survey of Karnataka, Bangalore (1999 - 2000,2000 - 2001). Census of India 2001-Karnataka

93 mms over an average of 123 days. In Karnataka state, an all time maximum rainfall i.e., 4,291.5 mms was recorded in South Canara district in 1983.^ Soil and Land utilisation It is marked by the pre-dominance of smallholdings. More than 80% of the land holding consists of less than 1.50 hectares. As far as cultivation of crop is concerned there are no major irrigation dams in the district. The prominent rivers in the district are Nethravathy in Bantwal. Kumaradhara in Puttur taluk and Gowri and Payashwini River in Sullia taluks, which is flowing from east to west. Fundamentally, Farmers depend on private wells and Government ponds. The total ground water potential is estimated at 118911 Ha.m with an utilisable potential of 101079 Ha.m. The total area under cultivation in the district is 2,16,973 ha. An area of 1,57,504 ha. is not available for cultivator as this area is under barren land put to non- agricultural uses. An area of 2,32,776 ha. is available for cultivation, which is presently classified as fallow land, permanent land, and other miscellaneous tree crops. The soil is of a laterite type characterised by iron and aluminum content. The soil is suitable for the cultivation of crops like small amount of spices and commercial plantation. The soil pH* ranges from

5.6 to 6 i.e., on the acidic side. Population. Literacy and Occupational Structure As per 2001 census, the population of the district is 1,896,403 out of which 937,651 are male and 958,752 are females. In the case of literacy level, the district has been declared totally literate. The literacy rate of the district for all is fairly high at 83.47% when compared with the state average of 67.04%. The work forces in the district are engaged in different types of activities viz: agricultural labourers (89,095), mining (2,770) trade and commerce (72,998) and other services. Apart from this there are cultivators (10,086) engaged in Forestry, Fisheries, Mining, Construction, transport, communication etc.

^ Dakshina Kannada at a glance 1990-91, District Statistical office, Mangalore 1991 PP 17-18 pH - Measurement Unit

94 Animal Husbandry and Sericulture Though there is no distinctive breed of cattie found in the district, artificial insemination centres have been set up in the district. Karnataka Milk Federation Diary is located at Mangalore. The total daily milk yield is about 4 lakh liters. There are 235 primary milk producer’s co-operative societies. There are about 8.65 lakh heads of cattle in the district. The South Canara District poultry producer marketing society, Mangalore is actively is engaged in the development of poultry farming in the district. Piggery is also becoming important. Sericulture activity is concentrated in Belthangady, Puttur and Bantwala taluks. At present about 2,660 acres of area is under mulberry cultivation constituting about 4,169 families. Allied Activities: - The coast of the district, which is one of the richest coasts in the country in respect of fisheries about V3 is of the total of the state. About 75,000 people are engaged in fish job and other related activities. Beedi rolling is also veiy important cottage a activity providing both direct and indirect employment to a large section of population in the district. The Mangalore Beedies are famous for their smart structures and tasty blend of tobacco. Infrastructures Facilities The district has a fairly developed road transport system, with a total of about 3,399 kms of motorable roads. This includes 126 kms of National High way and 696 kms of State Highway passing through the district. Out of total road length in the district, 22.35% is in Puttur, 21.69% is in Belthangady taluk, 20.59% is in Mangalore taluk 20.30% is in Bantwala and 15.02% is in Sullia taluk. The Konkan Railway lines are also passing through this district. The Bajpe Airport near Mangalore serves the needs of the industry and commercial activities. The New Mangalore Port at Panambur is a major port, which helps for the export and import trade of the district. The district is not lagging behind in the availability of telephone and other communication facilities and this is a boon to the trade and industry of the district.

95 Banking and Industry There is high incidence of the tertiary activities in the district. The district is the cradle of many commercial banks and four nationalised banks, which originated here^. The total number of commercial banks functioning in the district is 296. There is a relatively better industrial climate in the district. Tile factories, printing presses, clock making units, cashew nut industry, fisheries transport; professional and self-employed sectors have also developed rapidly over the years. The Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board is developing and allotting industrial land to the prospective entrepreneurs in the district. The Karnataka State Small Scale Industries Development Corporation is involved in the construction and allotment of industrial sheds. There are four industrial estates spread over 1,028 ha.s of land. By the year 2000 there were 16,72 small-scale industrial units registered as the district industrial centres. Brief History The word Kanara (or Canara) - The Kanaras, South and North are two coastal belts of Karnataka State. These two parts are popularly known as “Parashurama Shristi”- The creation of Parashurama who allegedly reclaimed the land west of western ghats with the divine power. When the Portuguese came to India and landed on the west coast, they came across this part of the country where they leamt that the people speak a language called Kannada. They were not familiar pronunciation of with the ‘da’ sound, which they replaced by ‘ra’ and thus Kannada became Kanara and was written in Portuguese as Canara"*. Hence, etymologically speakmg, the word Kanara (or Canara) is derived from Kannada. The same word “Canara” is used while naming one of the banking institution in this district as “Canara Banking Corporation”. The Portuguese legacy has remained strongly enough in names.

^ The Banks are (i) Canara (ii) Corporation (iii) Syndicate (iv) Vijaya Bank Kamath M.V. (1997), Corporation Bank- A corporate journey, Corporation Bank Mangalore, PP-4

96 The region of South Canara is referred to as “ThuluvaNaadu” in the historical literature because the local dialect “Tulu” is prevalent here. Therefore, it is a land of Tulu speaking people. The whole compact of coastal belt was divided into two parts in 1860, the Southern area was called South Canara, the part lying to the north of it was termed as North Canara®. In Kannada they are known as Dakshina Kannada Jille and Uttara Kannada Jille respectively. The former came under Madras presidency. Before the re­ organisation of the states in 1956, South Canara including Kasaragod taluk and Amindivi Islands, which have been apportioned to Kerala State now. Further, after the formation of separate Udupi district in 1998, the number of taluks in South Canara has been reduced from 8 to 5. Other features An interesting feature of agriculture in the district is that all classes and castes are represented in it, the landowners being however, mainly Brahmins, Bunts, Jains, Gowdas and Christians. The Brahmins belonging to the Havika sect who devoted themselves to the raising of arecanut plantations. Landowners usually reside on their estates and whether they are present or not, they are having their houses on the holdings or on the wasteland immediately adjoining them to look after the fields. The district of South Canara is popularly known as land of Temples, Churches, Masjids. It has been a bee- hive of tourists drawn from all ranks, pilgrims, tourists and lovers of fauna and flora. The other charming cultural activities are, Yakshagana, “Bhutaradhane”* and Traditional Sports such as Kambala (Buffalo race). The district, which has earned many sobriquets like “The Rome of the East”, “Cradle of Banking” and “Harbinger of Health”. As it is a centre of distinguished educational institutions of the state, now fast becoming a “City of Knowledge” and “Fun City”^. Hence, students of the different states peruse their education in this region.

Govt, of Karnataka, Gazetteer of India, Karnataka State (1973), South Canara Dist., Bangalore PP-3-4. *The Hindu (2002), Multi-pronged strategy in Dakshina Kannada, June 10. Bhutharadhane, is a religious practice of South Canara District.

97 Role of Arecanut in South Canara South Canara is a progressive district in coastal region of Karnataka. Fishing and arecanut are the major occupations of the people. The other minor crops such as rice, coconut, cashew nut and rubber are grown in small scale. As the climate, soil of the region is being favourable, it induces people to grow more remunerative and sustained kind of crops. A glance at the economic history of South Canara reveals that trade was the significant part of its economic life in the ancient and medival tunes. In the Greek and Roman accounts, the trade contracts of the western coast with Greece, Rome and Egypt are said to be mentioned and scholars have laboured to suggest, on the basis of unsubstantial evidences, probabilities of the participation of the Kanara parts in these trading adventures^. Traditionally, the district of South Canara is significantly an agro based region. A study of the economic history of district shows that during the period of Vijayanagar empire, it was well known for its agricultural prosperity. The cultivation of rice, both in its finer and coarse varieties, coconut, arecanut and pepper made this region an important source of revenue for the Vijayanagara rulers . Mangalore was the prominent centre of trade for exporting chief agricultural products. It was essentially the agricultural importance of the district that attracted the Portuguese and British East India Company. Portuguese traveler Barbosa who visited in between 1500 AD and 1515 AD named this region as “Tolinate” (TuluNadu) in his travelogue, describing it as one of the most progressive district of the Indian sub-continent. Francis Buchannan who traveled in this region in 1801 was impressed by the standard of cultivation in South Canara District’. It

Malathi R. Moorthi (1991), Trade and Commerce in Colonial South Kanara (1799-1862), Thesis, Mangalore University. 8. Indian Economic and Social History Review (1984), Vol. 21, No. 4, Oct-Dec, P-38. 9. Quoted in Gazetteer of India (1973), Karnataka State- South Canara Dist., Karnataka Gazetteer Unit, Govt, of Karnataka, Bangalore, P-67.

98 shows historically, there had been considerable amount of trade activities through several ports and agents in the district. It has been the practice to send some of the goods by sea to Mumbai, Colombo etc. Betel nut is a homestead crop of South Canara. It plays an important role in the religious, social, cultural, economical, commercial, educational and trade of our people. The district has been struggling hard to obtain the ultimate role of economic development through quantitative and qualitative aspects. In this regard, the contribution of this sector is notable. Arecanut is a long gestation period crop, requires greater services of human resources and capital resources for cultivation. In the region, 80% of the areca growers are the owner cultivators and some 15% to 20% are owner cum tenants. However, individual holdings under arecanut are very small and more than 83% of the total area is made up of small and marginal holdings. Therefore, betel nut is a small and marginal holders farm income. The major arecanut belts and taluks of district are: Puttur, Sullia, Bantwal, Belthangady and Mangalore. In the district, Sullia is the key dominant in arecanut according to the total area and production is estimated about 7 ,0 1 4 ^ ^ o r ^ d 10,521 tonnes respectively in 1999-2000. The total area and production of arecanut is estimated about 23,644 hectors and 35,466 tonnes respectively in 1999-2000. The sun dried type of Chali arecanut is mainly produced and processed. In the district, several lakhs of families especially small and marginal farmers are engaged in this cultivation. Nearly 92,000 poor workers are directly engaged in the performance of arecanut as a means of livelihood. As district has been struggling hard to secure higher productivity in arecanut, it encouraged the farmers to apply chemicals, fertilisers, machinery and other equipments. The requirement of such items by the people towards the arecanut garden resulted in greater development of industries and markets. The rate at which arecanut production increases is determined by the nature and availability of finance to the growers. In this regard, the scope and growth of banking and co-operative sectors over the years through the motivation of arecanut crop is quite impressive. The district has been regarded as cradle of banking with 20% of nationalised

99 banks originating from here. A few other co-operatives like SKACMS, CAMPCO, MASS* and other societies taken their origin in the district and stock exchange market has been initiated in performing the various financial transactions. It is also significant thing that no region in the country other than South Canara produces a Chali type of durable and qualitative arecanut. Many decades back, some of the bigger traders and commission agents of the North Indian stationed their own men and their family in taluks of South Canara to facilitate the movement of trading in this district. It reveals the marketing prospectus of arecanut not only at farm level but also distant consumption centres. The other notable characteristics of the district are the educational institutions. Primary and secondary schools are established in ahnost all villages. They cater to the needs of all school going children. General education up to graduation is available in important towns of the district. The Mangalore University at Mangalagangothri imparts postgraduate centre and other private educational institutions with professional courses like Engineering, Medical, Pharmaceutical, Dental, Law is located at Mangalore, Puttur and Sullia. Students from states of India and abroad undergo training in various disciplines of professional course. All such institutions have been initiated through the role of arecanut crop. 8 8 3 G It is also very proud to note that South Canara district has produced immense hotel industries. The hotels of Udupi and Mangalore have been spread throughout India and abroad, which are popular for standard food and team management. The hard work nature of the people has inherited from tfie family of arecanut growers. Further, South Canara district has a culture distinct from that of other districts of the state. People patronize and enjoy Yakshagana+, field dramas. These dramas are staged throughout the night. Well- organised Yakshagana troupes tour and over the entire district during the dry spell under

* MASS-Mangalore Agriculturist Sowhardha Society, formed in 2002. + Yakshagana - One of traditional folk art of the people in South Canara.

100 the noble guidance of resourceful artist. The varied, rich cultural activities are undertaking through the active role of artist and viewers. It involves the performance of arecanut sector. Marketing of arecanut is playing a significant role in the rural and urban development of South Canara district. As arecanut is the major crop, it encourages more progress for commercial activities in the different areas. Traders, dealers, commission agents etc. have engaged extensively towards arecanut produce of each taluks. In this district particularly. Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee of Mangalore transacts total value of Rs. 2,36,49,09,488.00. Out of this, value of arecanut is 1,51,90,94,954.00 in 1999-2000^®. It indicates the major share of arecanut. In Karnataka, APMC of Mangalore occupied third rank in securing revenues. The revenues in the form of sales tax, marketing cess fi-om this crop are an important factor for the welfare of Karnataka. Therefore, the rural economy particularly, the movement in trade, business, hotels, socio­ cultural in the district involves the absolute income of the arecanut growers. By considering the significance and prospects of the above aspects, one can definitely say that arecanut plays an important role in our economy in all aspects. So, if there are any disturbances to this farming then fate of different channels will be severely affected. However, recently, this sector has been facing up unbearable cost conditions and price fluctuations. The systematic guidance on the production and marketing is highly required for helping the fanners out of their difficulties.

APMC Mangalore, Annual Report, 1999-2000.

101 Arecanut in South Canara In the state of Karnataka arecanut is cultivated in a large scale only in South Canara. The cultivation and processing of arecanut is an important source of agricultural income and employment. South Canara is a land of arecanut bunches. It is the major arecanut-producing district accounting for 40% of the total production in the state. An intrinsic symbolic relationship exists with rural masses and it is a nerve centre for rural development and employment. The main contributing arecanut belt or taluks of this district are; Puttur, Sullia, Bantwal, Belthangady and Mangalore. The growers of South Canara have maintained the Sun-dried or Chali type of arecanut with the hope of fetching better prices in the maiket. The trends relating to area, production and productivity of arecanut in South Canra for the last 16 years are given in table no. 3.2 and 3.3. It is interesting to note that, the district witnessed dramatic improvement in the performance of arecanut crop with the movement and impact of green revolution and the inception of Central Arecanut and Cocoa Marketing and Processing Co-operative Ltd. (CAMPCO) in 1973. The performance of area, production and productivity of arecanut in South Canara is analysed by taking 1984-85 as the base year. For a clear study, the period is classified into two categories viz. 1984-85 to 1989- 90 and 1990-91 to 1999-2000. It can be seen that the area under arecanut has increased from 15,505 ha, in 1984-85 to 15,729 in 1989-90. During this period, the increase in the index number reached to 101.44%. The annual growth rate of area comes to 0.28%. It indicates the ^ ea under arecanut, which has more or less stabilized and shows a relatively steady performance. This is due to variation in weather conditions and other factors like non-irrigation facilities, impact of earlier disease, lower prices etc. However, the area expansion picked up momentum in 1990-91 with 18,789 ha. It reached 23,644 ha in 1999-2000 over a period of 10 years areca showing considerable rise. The index number of area increased from 121.18% to 152.49% between the 1990-91 and 1999-2000 resulting in to annual average growth rate of 5.10%. The total production imder crop has increased from 23,257 tonnes in 1984-85 to 23,593.5 tonnes in 1989-90. The trend in the index number of and annual growth rate of

102 area is similar to that of production. Which is shown in the figure 3.1. However, since 1990-91, the production moved much faster and stood at 28,183.5 tonnes in 1990-91. The same was increased to 35,466 tonnes in 1999-2000. Table 3.2. Area, Production and Productivity of Arecanut in South Canara of Karnataka fi^onT)994-85 to 1999-^ YEAR AREA(Hactres) PI^DUCTlpMtonneyfROpUCTlVITY (Kg/Ha) 1984 - 85 232V. 0 1500 1985 - 86 1 5 ^ kO 1500 1986 - 87 15601 23401.5 1500 1987 - 88 15651 23476.5 1500 1988 - 89 15088 23532.0 1500 1989 - 90 15729 23593.5 1500 1990 - 91 18789 28183.5 1500 1991 - 92 19254 28881.0 1500 1992 - 93 19543 29314.5 1500 1993 - 94 20130 30195.0 1500 1994 - 95 20319 30478.5 1500 1995 - 96 22332 33498.0 1500 1996 - 97 22498 33747.0 1500 1997 - 98 23599 35398.5 1500 1998 - 99 24431 36646.5 1500 1999 - 2000 23044 35466.0 1500 Source: Statistical Data on Horticultural Crops in Karnataka State, Bangalore, 1999-2000 The growth trend in the area and production of arecanut since 1990 is quite noteworthy. To a greater extent, larger area has been brought under irrigation due to failure of crops like Cocoa, better prices for arecanut. taluks like Sullia and Belthangady witnessed somewhat positive and substantially increasing sign over the sixteen years of the period. The maximum annual growth rate of area and production under arecanut observed in 1990-91 was of 19.74%. Where as the minimum declining of area and production noticed in the year 1999-2000. The downward trend of area and production of arecanut in 1999-2000 is due to negative sign appeared in the area and production of Belthangady taluk. As a whole, between the year 1984-85 to 1999-2000, the increase in the index number of both areas and production is around 152.49% resulting to armual average growth rate of both area and production cames to 3.22%.

103 Figure -3 .1 Area. Production, and Productivity of Arecanut in South Canara of Karnataka From 1984-85 to 1999-2000

Figure No. 3.2 Area and Production of Arecanut in Puttur, SuUia and Bantwal taluks from 1984-85 to 1999- 2000

Puttur Area

Puttur Production -A— Sullia Area

' X Sullia Production -3K—Bantwal Area - • —Bantwal Production

104 Table 3.3. Index Number and Annual Growth rati Lrea, Production and Productivity of South Canara: Base Year: 1984-85 = 100 AREAPRODUCTIONPRODUCTIVITY Increase in Annual Increase in Annual Increase in Annual YEAR the index growth the index growth the index growth no rate no rate no rate 1985 - 86 99.03 -0.7 99.03 -0.7 100 0 1986 - 87 100.61 1.57 100.61 1.57 100 0 1987 - 8 8 100.94 0.3 100.94 0.3 100 0 1988 - 89 101.18 0.28 101.18 0.28 100 0 1989 - 90 101.44 0.26 101.44 0.26 100 0 1990 - 91 121.18 19.74 121.18 19.74 100 0 1991 - 92 124.17 2.99 124.17 2.99 100 0 1992 - 93 126.04 1.87 126.04 1.87 100 0 1993 - 94 129.82 3.78 129.82 3.78 100 0 1994 - 95 131.04 1.22 131.04 1.22 100 0 1995 - 96 144.03 12.99 144.03 12.99 100 0 1996 - 97 145.10 1.07 145.10 1.07 100 0 1997 - 98 152.20 7.10 152.20 7.10 100 0 1998 - 99 157.56 5.36 157.56 5.36 100 0 1999 - 2000 152.49 -5.07 152.49 -5.07 100 0 Source; Statistical Data on Horticultural Crops in Karnataka State, Bangalore, 1999-2000 The productivity of arecanut in South Canara was 1,500 Kg/ha during 1984-85. The same was moved in a stabilised and constant level up to 1999-2000. In spite of a uniform productivity over the years, the productivity of South Canara is greater as compared with National average of 1,205 Kg/ha. The reasons for uniform and poor perfonnance in the growth rate are: low coverage under location- specific high yielding varieties, frequent disease, poor extension and management strategies etc.

105 Trends in Area Under the Crop and Production of Arecanut in the Taluks of South Canara South Canara district is pre-dominantly arecanut-growing region of Karnataka. Arecanut crop is raised on the plains and lower hill slopes and is rain fed during Monsoon and irrigated during summer. Basically before 1998, South Canara was an undivided district along with would be district now. Later, three taluks (Karkala, Kundapur and Udupi) were incorporated into a new district of Udupi. At present, the major taluks or areca belts of the district are Puttur, Sullia, Bantwal, Belthangady and Mangalore. Arecanut crop is mostly raised as a pure crop in this region. The main type of areca produce in South Canara district is unboiled ‘Chali’ category, while cultivating this crop, ripe arecanuts are harvested and processed for the preparation of ‘Chali’. The growers classify the products based on the quality and strength. New Supari, old Supari and Coka are the main grades. As far as total area, production and productivity of arecanut in South Canara over the years is concerned a notable improvement is maintained. A detailed talukwise in area, production and productivity is shown in table No. 3.4. Among the leading producing taluks, Puttur, Sullia and Bantwal have registered a considerable performance, which is shown in index table No.3.5 The trends in area, production and yield of this district are analysed by taking 1984-85 as the base year. Growth in area: - Expansion of area under arecanut in Puttur, Sullia and Bantwal taluks has been impressive. The total area under arecanut in the above district during 1984-85 was 3,636 ha, 3,563 ha and 3,807 ha respectively. The same has moved to 3,708 ha, 3,605 ha and 3,846 ha, respectively in 1989-90. Over the period of six years, the increases in the index number of area of three taluks are 101.98, 101.17, and 101.02%, whereas the average annual growth rate comes out to be 0.33%, 0.19% and 0.17% respectively. The area under arecanut in Belthangady and Mangalore is 3,820 ha and 670 ha in 1984-85 respectively. This has increased to 3,856 ha and 700 ha in 1989-90. The area expanded to

106 Table No. 3.4

TALUK WISE ARE^PRODUCTION AND YIELD IN SOUTH CANARA

FROM 1984-85 to 1999-2000

Name of the ITEM 1984-85 1985-86 1986-87 1987-88 1988-89 1989-90 1990-91 1991-92 Taluks Area 3636 3659 3668 3668 3694 3708 3774 3952 Puttur Production 5454 5488 5402 5532 5541 5562 5661 5928 Yield 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 Area 3563 3573 3585 3581 3593 3605 4961 4982 Sullia Production 5344 5359 5377 5371 5389 5407 7441 7473 Yield 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 o Area 3807 3819 3831 3841 3844 3846 4101 4156 Bantwal Production 5710 5728 5746 5761 5766 5769 6151 6234 Yield 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 Area 3820 3824 3828 3845 3856 3865 5214 5284 Belthangady Production 5730 5736 5742 5767 5784 5797 7821 7926 Yield 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 Area 670 681 689 696 700 705 739 880 Mangalore Production 1005 1021 1033 1044 1050 1057 1108 1320 Yield 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500

Contd. Contd.

Name of the ITEM 1992-93 1993-94 1994-95 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000 Taluks Area 4035 4312 4565 4660 4684 4610 4646 4785 P u ttu r Production 6052 6468 6847 6990 7026 6915 6969 7177 Yield 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 Area 5145 5182 5318 5662 5662 6700 6799 7014 Sullia Produetion 7773 7773 7977 8493 8493 10050 10198 10521 Yield 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 o 00 Area 4227 4282 4362 4377 4436 4693 4731 4731 Bantwal Production 6340 6423 6543 6565 6654 7039 7096 7096 Yield 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 Area 5317 5427 5539 6709 6789 6880 6880 5648 Belthangady Production 7975 8140 8308 10063 10183 10320 10320 8472 Yield 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 Area 819 927 926 924 924 716 1375 1381 M angalore Production 1228 1390 1389 1386 1386 1074 2062 2071 Yield 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500 1500

Area: Hector, Production: Tonnes, Yield : Kg / ha Source : Statistical Data on Horticultural Crops in South Canara, Mangalore - 1999-2000 Table 3.5 INDEX NUMBERS AND ANNUAL GROWTH RATES OF AREA AND PRODUCTION IN THREE TALUKS OF SOUTH CANARA ( Study Area ) ( BASE YEAR: 1984-85=100 )

Name of the ITEM 1985-86 1986-87 1987-88 1988-89 1989-90 1990-91 1991-92 1992-93 Taluks

s index number 100.63 100.88 101.43 101.59 101.98 103.79 108.69 110.97 Annual < 0.63 0.26 0.55 0.16 0.39 1.81 4.9 2.28 Puttur s o Index number 100.62 100.88 101.43 101.59 101.98 103.79 108.69 110.97 su g0 -a Annual 2 0.62 0.26 0.55 0.16 0.39 1.81 4.9 2.28 0k Growth es Index number 100.28 100.61 100.5 100.84 101.17 139.23 139.82 144.40 < Annual Growth 0.28 0.32 -0.11 0.34 0.33 38.06 0.59 4.58 B Annual SuIIia 100.61 100.84 Growth 100.28 100.5 101.17 139.23 139.82 144.40 ws Annual 1 Growth 0.28 0.32 -0.11 0.34 0.33 38.06 0.59 4.58

S Index number 100.31 100.63 100.89 100.97 101.02 107.72 109.16 111.03 < Aimual Growth 0.31 0.32 0.26 0.08 0.05 6.70 1.44 1.87 Bantwal Annual o 100.31 100.63 100.89 100.97 101.02 107.72 109.16 111.03 ‘■Sw Growth B Annual 1 0.31 0.32 0.26 0.08 0.05 6.70 1.44 1.87 0^ Growth

Contd. Contd.

Name of the ITEM 1993-94 1994-95 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000 Taluks Indoc CQ niimher 118.59 125.55 128.16 128.82 126.78 127.77 131.60 Annual Growth 7.62 6.96 2.61 0.66 -2.04 0.99 3.83 Puttur Index § 118.59 125.55 128.16 128.82 126.78 127.77 131.60 o number T3 Annual s 0.66 -2.04 Cl* Growth 7.62 6.96 2.61 0.99 3.83 Index R> 145.44 188.04 190.83 196.85 U rnimher 149.26 158.91 158.91 Annual Growth 1.04 3.82 9.65 0.0 29.13 2.79 6.02 Sullia § Index number 145.44 149.26 158.91 158.91 188.04 190.83 196.85 1 Annual 1.04 0.0 6.02 1 Growth 3.82 9.65 29.13 2.79 Index CO 112.48 114.57 114.97 116.52 123.28 124.27 124.27 p number < Annual Growth 1.45 2.09 0.40 1.55 6.76 0.99 0.0 Bantwal § Index number 112.48 114.57 114.97 116.52 123.28 124.27 124.27

Annual i Growth 1.45 2.09 0.40 1.55 6.76 0.99 0.0

Area : Hector, Production: Tonnes, Yield : Kg / ha

Source : Statistical Data on Horticultural Crops in South Canara, Mangalore - 1999-2000 5,648 ha and 1,381 ha in 1999-2000. During this period, the growth of area registered a negative sign of 5,648 ha in 2000 di|e to higher expenses on labour, developing rubber cultivation, anticipation on excess supply of areca production etc. Between the year 1990-91 and 1999-2000, the area of arecanut in Puttur, Sullia and Bantwal increased from 3,774 h^, 4,961 ha and 4,101 ha to 4,785 ha, 7,014 ha and 4,731 ha respectively. This indicates the increase in index number of area under arecanut in the area of above three taluks is 131.60, 196.85 and 124.27%. The average annual growth rate of area comes to be 1.96%, 9.56% and 2.32% respectively. In the above stage, Sullia enjoys first position in the area expansion followed by Puttur and Bantwal taluks. During the whole period, a maximum increase of 7.62 in growth rate noticed in 1993-94 and ihaximum decline of -2.04% (negative) appeared in 1997-98 in Puttur taluk. A higher anhual growth rate of 38.06% observed in 1990-91 and i maximum declining of -0.11% registered in 1987-88 in Sullia. Moreover, comparatively in Bantwal Taluk a maximum increase in an annual growth rate of 6.76% in 1997-98 and maximum declining rate of 0% in 1999-2000. Over the 16 years of period, the index number of area of the three taluks are 131.60, 196.85 and 124.27% resulting in an average annual growth rate of 1.97% 6.05% and 1.51% in 1999-2000 which is presented in the table 3.5. A trend in area and tlalukwise yield is also shown in fig 3.2. Factors such as availability of suitable land takin away of more toll of palms every year, failure of other crops, greater demand for Chali in consumption centre, better price forecasting seem to have contributed to the notable growth in area in taluks of South Canara. Phase of Production and Producti\|itv; The pattern of production in tiluks of South Canara showed a steady rise, which is presented in Table 3.4. Production qf arecanut in Putttur, Sullia and Bantwal in the year 1984-85 was 5,454 tonnes, 5,344 to ^ e s and 5,710 tonnes respectively. This has moved to 5,562 tonnes, 5,407 tonnes and 5^769 tonnes in 1989-90 over the period of six years. The production in three taluks has registered increase in the index number to 101.98, 101.17 and 101.02% resulting in annual growth rate of 0.33%, 0.19% and 0.17% respectively. The production of arecanut in Belthangady and Mangalore was 5,730 tonnes

111 and 1005 tonnes in 1984-85. The same increased to 5,797 tonnes and 1,057 tonnes in 1989-90. By the year 1999-2000, it expanded to the level of 8,472 tonnes and 2,071 tonnes. The production of arecanut in Belthangady taluk appeared to be declining from 10,320 tonnes in 1998-99 to 8,472 tonnes in 1999-2000. The declining rate of area under the crop and poor maintenance, seem to be responsible for negative trend of production. Between the year 1990-91 and 1999-2000, the production of arecanut in Puttur, Sullia and Bantwal moved from 5,661, 7,441 and 6,151 tonnes to 7,171, 10,521 and 7,096 tonnes respectively. During this period, the increases in the index number of production of three taluks are 131.60, 196.85 and 124.77%. It shows an average annual growth rate of 2.96, 9.56 and 2.32% respectively. As is shovm in Chart 3.1. Sullia enjoys first rank in respect of production perfonnance, followed by Puttur Md Bantwal taluks. During the whole period a maximum increasing growth rate qf 7.62% was noticed in 1993-94 and maximum declining rate of -2.04% (negative) a])peared in 1997-98 in Puttur taluk. A higher aimual growth rate of 38.06% was observed in 1990-91 and maximum declining of -0.11% got registered in 1987-88 in Sullia. Moreover, comparatively in Bantwal taluk a maximum increasing annual growth rate of 6.76% in 1997-98 and maximum declining rate of 00% in 1999-2000 were maintained. Over a period of 16 years, the index numbers of production of the three taluks are 131.60, 196.85 and 124.27% with an average annual growth rate of 1.97%, 6.05% and 1.51% respectively. As shown in the below table tl^e total net area irrigated in South Canara in the year 1988-89 was 44,102 ha. But this number increased considerably up to 66,015 ha over a period of 10 years, the total net are4 irrigation has been at higher level. The number of tube wells appeared three times greater than in earlier periods as shown in the table 3.6. This situation must have contributed to the expansion in area under arecanut and greater production.

112 Table no: 3.6 Net Area (In Hectare) Irrigated In South Canara During 1988 - 89 Lift Taluks Tanks Wells Tube wells Others Total Irrigation Bantwal 89 40 4968 144 8772 14013 Belthangady 353 45 3384 110 8415 12307 Mangalore 333 82 3030 28 6453 9926 Puttur 49 117 3030 451 6245 9892 Sullia 353 30 4190 171 3306 8050 Total 1177 1367 18602 904 22050 44102 1998-99 Bantwal 10 15 8133 1516 5258 14932 Belthangady 829 33 3268 276 9775 14691 Mangalore 57 382 5245 52 9779 15515 Puttur 49 nil 2414 799 6 6 6 6 11039 Sullia 453 30 4776 360 4219 9838 Total 1398 1571 24336 3003 35707 66015 Source: 0 fficeofStatisI ical Department, South Canara- Mangalore, 1988-89, IS>98-99.

Remarkable growth pattern was witnessed by the taluk of Sullia. The reasons for higher growth of area and production after 1990’s are: suitable climate, che^er irrigation facilities like drip and sprinkler, threat of rubber cultivation becoming sick, availability of timely labour (Migrants of SriLankan based Tamil people). The slower performance was shown by Bantwal taluk on account of factors such as, dry and low quality land, scarcity of water, demand for higher wages, the taluk being close to the boarder of Kerala and urban areas, failure of other crops and frequent diseases. As a whole, the main contribution of major taluks has been unique in nature, which is shown in Table 3.3. The increase in the index number of area and production under arecanut of Puttur, Sullia and Bantwal are 131.60, 196.85 and 124.27%. The average annual growth rate of area and production of three taluks are 1.97%, 6.05% and 1.51%. It reveals that the overall trend in the index number and annual growth of area and production of arecanut between 1984-85 and 1999-2000 shown a imiform performance.

113 The data presented in Table 3.3 shows that between 1984-85 and 1999-2000 the productivity of arecanut in the taluks of South Canara has registered the level of 1,500 Kg/ha over these periods with the increase in the index number of productivity around 100% and it results to an average annual growth of 0%. From the above development and situations indicating that the productivity of arecanut in different taluks registered stagnating and similar trend. This reflects sluggish pattern of productivity as compared to the trend in index number and annual growth rate of area and production. Areca is considered as a crop for soil conservation, a forestation and wasteland development. As a result, it is relegated to marginal lands with poor fertility and less water holding capacity. Non-application of certified seeds, failure of crops must have resulted to a poor witii uniform pattern over the years in different taluks. It is astonishing and interesting to note that the productivity of arecanut achieved an important break-through because the yield performance of South Canara over the years has been far greater than national average (1,205 Kg/ha) and world average (1,267 Kg/ha). Shares of Taluk; Sufficient amount of arecanut in South Canara was accounted by leading few taluks. The data shows in Table 3.7 that the changes in the share of major taluks of South Canara in area and production. Between 1984-85 and 1989-90, the share of area and production of Puttur was 23.45% to 23.57%. Then it started declining to 20.23% in 1999- 2000. In terms of percentage of area and production of Sullia in 1984-85 were 22.97% and it declined to 22.91% in 1989-90. Later from 1990’s there has been spectacular performance with a level of 26.17% to 29.66% in 1999-2000. The share of performance was found to be greater, in Bantwal during 1984-85, which reached to 24.55%. Then growth of shares declined proportionately. The contribution of area and production registered to the level of 20.00% in 1999-2000.

114 Chart No. 3.1 Area and Production of Arecanut in Taluks of South Canara during 1999-2000

12000

Mangalore

Chart No. 3.2 Productivity (Kg / ha) of Arecanut in Taluks of South Canara During 1999-2000

Puttur Sullia Bantwal Belthangady Mangalore

Taluks

115 Figure No. 3.3 Contribution of different taluks of South Canara in Area and Production of Arecanut during 1999-2000

Mangalore Puttur 5.84% Belthangady 20.23% 23.88%

■ Puttur

□ Sullia

■ Bantwal

D Belthangad

■ Mangalore

Bantwal Sullia 20.00% 29.66%

Area : Hector, Production; Tonnes,

Source ; Statistical Data on Horticultural Crops in South Canara, Mangalore -1999-2000 The share of Belthangady, in area and production of arecanut in the year 1984-85 was 24.63%. This share number has been increased to 27.26% in 1994-95. Then it started declining notably and reached to the level of 23.88% in 1999-2000. There has been negligible and slight performance sho>vn by Mangalore in the year 1984-85 it was 4.32%, flien it moved with considerable performance during the year 1999-2000 the share of area and production was 5.84%.

Table No. 3.7 Change in the Share of Area and Production of Arecanut in Taluks I of South Canara Percentage Share in Area Percentage Share in Production Taluks 1999- 1999- 1984-85 1989-90 1994-95 1984-85 1989-90 1994-95 ! 2000 2000 Puttur 23.45 23.57 22.46 20.23 23.45 23.57 22.46 20.23 Suilia 22.97 22.91 26.17 29.66 22.97 22.91 26.17 29.66 Bantwal 24.55 24.45 ^1.46 20.00 24.55 24.45 21.46 20.00 Belthangady 24.63 24.57 27.26 23.88 24.63 24.57 27.26 23.88 Mangalore 4.32 4.48 4.55 5.84 4.32 4.48 4.55 5.84 Total 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 Area ; Hector ; Production ; Tonnes ; I Source : Statistical Data on Horticultural Crops in South Canara, Mangalore- 1999-2000.

As a whole, Sullia taluk enjdys leading position in the arecanut belt in South Canara. The rank of second, third, fourth and fifth followed by Belthangady, Puttur, Bantwal and Mangalore in area and production of arecanut. The glaring feature of share of taluks is the growth pattern of area, which is similar to growth pattern of production in each of the taluks of South Canara.

117 REFERENCES

1. South Canara was the previous name of the district. It was renamed as Dakshina Kannada district on 31-10-1977 - Economic and Social Survey of Dakshina Kannada (1988-89), District Statistical office, Mangalore 1992, - P-2. 2. Dakshina Kannada at a glance 1990-91, District Statistical office, Mangalore 1991 PP 17-18. 3. The Nationalised Banks are (i) Canara (ii) Corporation (iii) Syndicate (iv) Vijaya Bank. 4. Kamath M.V. (1997), Corporation Bank- A corporate journey. Corporation Bank Mangalore, PP-4. 5. Govt, of Karnataka, Gazetteer of India, Karnataka State (1973), South Canara Dist., Bangalore PP-3-4. 6. The Hindu (2002), Multi-pronged strategy in Dakshina Kannada, June 10. 7. Malathi R. Moorthi (1991), Tra^e and Commerce in Colonial South Kanara (1799- 1862), Thesis, Mangalore University. 8. Indian Economic and Social History Review (1984), Vol. 21, No. 4, Oct-Dec, P-38. 9. Quoted in Gazetteer of India (1973), Karnataka State- South Canara Dist., Karnataka I Gazetteer Unit, Govt, of Karnataka, Bangalore, P-67. 10. Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (1999-2000), -Annual Report, Mangalore. 11. Anyaneyulu, N., Reddy T.G. £lnd Subba Reddy S. (1984), “Resource wise and Productivity of Turmeric in (Juntur District of Andhra Pradesh”, Agricultural Situation in India 39(1), PP 21-24. 12. Chanda G.K. (1979), “Production Behaviour, Size of farm and technology, A case study of Punjab, Artha Vijnana, 21 (2), PP 219-243. 13. Chandra Prabha (1971), “District wise measurement and Decomposition of the Agricultural output in the Punjab during the post independence period, Indian Economic review, Vol. VI (New Series), No. 1, PP 49-63.

118 14. Chattopadhyaya M. and Songu Gupta (1998), “Farm size and productivity- A new work at the old debate”. Economic and Political Weekly, 32(52), PP-A 172-175. 15. Dhondayal S.P. (1991), “Farm Management - An Economic Analysis”, Friends Publications, Meerut. 16. Johl S.S. (1994), “Structural adjustment in agricultural sector for growth and productivity”, Centre for Research in Rural and Industrial development- Chandigarh- PP 1-45. 17. Sethuraman S.V. (1971), “Estimation of production fimctions in Indian Agriculture”, Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, 26(2). 18. Sidhu S. (1974), “Relative Efficiency in wheat production in Indian Punjab”, The American economic review, LXIV (4), P-746. 19. Sidhu S. (1974), “Relative efficiency in wheat production in Indian Punjab”, The American Economic Review, LXIV (4), P-746. 20. Subramanyan K.V. and Mohandoss V. (1982), “Economic evolution of Coorg mandariin (Oranges) in Karnataka”, Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, 37(1). 21. Vaidyanathan A. (1986), “Labour use in Rural India: A study of spatial and temporal variations”. Economic and political weekly, 21(52), PP 2259-2263. 22. Walker, T.S., Singh R.P. and Jodha N.S. (1983), “Dimensions of farm level diversification in the semi-arid tropics of rural South India”, Economics Programme Progress Report, No. 51, ICRISAT, India, PP - 1-45.

119