Effects of Olive Cultivation on Farmers Income in District Nowshera: A Comparative Analysis

The Government of Pakistan has initiated a project titled "Promotion of olive cultivation on a commercial scale in Pakistan” in various parts country, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. As a result, olive cultivation has emerged as a significant agricultural practice with considerable effects on farmers' income of the various districts of KP. In this regard, a comparative study was conducted to investigate the differences in the income of farmers from olive before and after the project and to compare the income of olive growers with the income of non-olive growers (farmers) in the research area. Primary data were collected from 30 olive growers and 30 non-olive growers (a total of total 60 farmers) of the area through a well-developed questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS. The results of paired t test revealed that there is a significant difference income of farmer before and after the projects. Similarly, the result of independent sample t test revealed that there is a difference in income of olive growers and non-olive growers. However, the results are not significant because of the initiating of the project being started in 2014. It is expected that with time there will be more difference in income due to olive cultivation. In conclusion, this comparative analysis highlights the need for region-precise approaches to maximize the positive effects of olive cultivation on farmer’s income. The study suggested that to take advantage of this new crop, olive income can be improved if farmers have easy access to a recommended bundle of olive-based techniques based on scientific evidence. The future of olive farming enhanced research facilities, trained research personnel, farmer training programs, and stronger collaboration between researchers and olive growers.