Exploring Farmer-Ranked Constraints Affecting Kole Paddy Productivity: A Study from Thrissur District of Kerala, India

The present study aims to identify and rank the key technical, economic, environmental, marketing, and institutional constraints affecting Kole paddy productivity in Thrissur district of Kerala. A cross-sectional research design was adopted, covering six Padasekharams selected from the Anthikad, Puzhakkal, and Cherpu block panchayats during the period May to September 2025. Using a snowball sampling technique, primary data were collected from 120 paddy farmers through structured personal interviews with a pre-tested schedule. Farmer-perceived constraints were prioritised using Garrett’s ranking technique. The results indicate that climate change–induced extreme weather events constitute the most severe environmental constraint, substantially increasing production uncertainty. This is followed by rising input costs, frequent pest and disease incidence, and persistent labour shortages, which collectively reduce farm profitability. Institutional constraints such as delayed subsidy disbursement, weak interdepartmental coordination, and limited awareness of government support schemes further exacerbate these challenges. In addition, technological and infrastructural gaps, particularly inadequate mechanisation and inefficient irrigation and drainage systems, continue to limit operational efficiency. The study highlights the need for an integrated strategy combining climate-resilient agricultural practices with institutional reforms and targeted technological interventions to enhance the productivity and sustainability of Kole paddy cultivation.