Technical Efficiency and Input Determinants of Hybrid Maize Production in District Tando Allahyar, Sindh, Pakistan

Abstract

This study evaluates the technical efficiency of hybrid maize production in District Tando Allahyar, Sindh, Pakistan, using farm-level data collected from 100 maize growers. A multistage sampling approach was employed, and data on socio-economic characteristics, farm management practices, and input usage were collected through structured questionnaires. The Cobb-Douglas stochastic frontier production function was estimated to identify the influence of inputs on maize yield and to assess efficiency levels. Results indicate that irrigation (elasticity = 1.58), nitrogen (1.41), and phosphorus (1.29) significantly contribute to maize productivity, while other inputs such as seed rate, potassium, and sowing date also exert positive effects. The average technical efficiency was 0.453, with 90% of farms exhibiting low efficiency (<0.90), highlighting substantial potential for productivity improvement. The study concludes that targeted interventions in irrigation management, fertilization, seed quality and extension services are essential for enhancing the technical efficiency of hybrid maize production in the region.