Migration of labor to specially to the Gulf countries, coupled with the recent spurt in real estate are taking its toll on agriculture in Kerala as output has slipped sharply in the last five years.

According to a study, sustained loss in agricultural output in Kerala is not due to natural causes but is the result of a curious mix of socioeconomic factors such as the rise in attractive alternative opportunities.

Kasargod, Kollam, Thrissur and Alappuzha districts in Kerala figure among India’s worst performing districts in terms of agricultural output growth and Kasargod is losing productivity at a rate of 10.8 percent per annum, the highest for any district in India.

Paddy is the worst hit all over the state with paddy fields being converted into houses and other buildings.