Production Behavior of the Dairy Sector in Assam with Special Reference to Golaghat District

Abstract

The dairy sector plays a pivotal role in India’s agrarian economy, providing income, employment, and nutrition to millions, particularly in rural areas. Assam, with its predominantly smallholder and subsistence-oriented dairy farms, contributes significantly to the state’s rural livelihood and food security. This study examines the production behaviour of the dairy sector in Golaghat district of Assam, focusing on resource-use efficiency, factor productivity, and returns to scale. Using both primary and secondary data, a multistage sampling farmers was conducted, and production functions were estimated through the Cobb-Douglas model. The results reveal that labour and land are the most significant determinants of dairy output, while capital plays a comparatively minor role. Findings also highlight structural constraints such as limited capital investment, inadequate veterinary support, and dependence on traditional practices, which restrict productivity gains. The study concludes that improving efficiency and productivity requires policy interventions in cooperative development, feed and healthcare facilities, and better integration with formal milk markets.