Vol. 7, Issue 11, Part B (2025)

The study examines the patterns of instability in the area, production and yield of major cash crops in India. Secondary data from 1990-91 to 2023–24 are employed to study the instability in production for selected cash crops- cotton, jute, sugarcane, soybean, rapeseed-mustard and groundnut. Instability was analysed through the Cuddy–Della Valle (CDV) instability index. The CDV analysis showed that there was higher instability in production compared to area and yield. High variability in production was observed for cotton, groundnut, rapeseed & mustard and soyabean. These findings highlight the fragility of rain-fed cash crops to climatic and market variability. The study points out that policies that support climate-resilient technologies, expanding irrigation, and diversifying crops are important. It also highlights the significance of implementing effective measures to stabilize prices in order to ensure agricultural growth. A coordinated approach involving technological innovation, financial security, and region-specific interventions can ensure sustainable and stable agricultural growth.