Proceeding of the ICBFMT Sep 2025 Conference

A Study On The Challenges Faced By Agro-Input Dealers In The Cotton Growing Areas Of Middle Gujarat

Authors: Vandankumar M. Patel, Dr. Dheeraj Pandey

Abstract: This study investigates the challenges faced by agro-input dealers in the cotton-growing regions of Middle Gujarat and examines factors influencing their business performance. Primary data were collected from 90 dealers across Vadodara, Panchmahal, and Chhotaudepur using structured questionnaires, supplemented by secondary sources such as CCI reports, ICAR studies, and relevant literature. Findings indicate that most dealers maintain product quality through direct sourcing from manufacturers and customer feedback, while supplier guidance remains key for addressing quality issues. Customer retention is primarily driven by excellent service and quality products, supported by regular follow-ups. Business growth strategies and responsiveness to customer demands significantly influence competitive advantage and sales performance, as shown by chi-square analysis. In contrast, customer relationship management and product quality management do not significantly affect retention or satisfaction, potentially due to farmers’ focus on price, limited purchasing power, and low awareness or improper product usage. The study highlights the need for strengthened supplier networks, market responsiveness, and customer engagement to enhance dealer performance and ensure quality input access for cotton farmers.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17077249

 

Understanding The Socio-Economic Challenges Of Cotton Growers In The Middle Gujarat

Authors: Vandankumar M. Patel, Dr. Dheeraj Pandey

Abstract: Cotton farming is a key source of livelihood for farmers in Middle Gujarat, but they face multiple socio-economic and production-related challenges. This study explores the cotton value chain by examining farmers’ landholdings, labor practices, marketing channels, yields, income, and awareness of government schemes, with a focus on factors affecting productivity and access to the Minimum Support Price (MSP). Primary data were collected from 340 cotton farmers. Results indicate that most farmers have small to medium landholdings and rely primarily on hired and family labor. The majority sell cotton through commission agents and local markets, with limited use of cooperatives or direct ginner channels. Cotton yields are mostly moderate, and incomes vary widely, with many earning either below ₹50,000 or above ₹1,50,000 annually. Awareness of MSP and government schemes is fairly high, though consistent access and utilization remain a challenge. Statistical analysis shows that larger landholdings enhance MSP access, labor shortages reduce productivity, and higher-income farmers are more aware of government schemes. The study highlights the importance of better market access, adequate labor support, adoption of modern farming techniques, and effective awareness programs to boost productivity, increase income, and improve the overall well-being of cotton farmers in the region.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17077443

 

The Human Factor In Industry 4.0: A Quantitative Study On The Impact Of Learning Commitment And Interpersonal Adaptability On Human Capital Creation In Smart Manufacturing

Authors: Manisha Negi, Dr Geeta Rana

Abstract: Smart manufacturing (SM) as a paradigm under the industry 4.0 is essentially transforming the international industrial environment. Although the technological pillars of SM, namely the Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are sufficiently documented, the human behavioral antecedents needed to harness the given technological advantages are an essential area of research missing. The current research examines how two behavioral constructs are influenced i.e. the Learning Commitment (LC) and Interpersonal Adaptability (IA) in the employees concerning the creation of Human Capital (HCC) in the SM industries. Since the present study is based on resource-based view and adaptive performance theories, it uses a quantitative research approach of a cross-sectional one. The number of respondents sampled was 287 professionals who are working at the manufacturing firms in Indonesia which actively implement the use of SM technologies. LC, IA, and HCC measurement scales were modified based on the existing scales and were tested in this particular situation. The analysis of the data was carried out by use of the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The outcome is strongly suggesting that not only Learning Commitment (= -0.381, p = 0.001) but also Interpersonal Adaptability (= -0.422, p = 0.001) instruments have positive significant effect over Human Capital Creation and their effect is stronger with IA. There is a relationship on HCC that is explained by the model with 51.2%. The conclusions made can be summarized thus: to achieve the goals of the successful human capital development in the complex, socio-technical setup of the SM, companies should have two packages in their strategy: establishing the culture of lifelong learning and becoming proactive to instill interpersonal plasticity in order to ensure fruitful human-human and human-machines interaction. The study is an empirically correct strategic human resource development framework that managers and policymakers have acquired in the age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17285864