Abstract
Banana is one of the major horticultural crops cultivated in India and occupies an important position in the agricultural economy. It is grown extensively by farmers belonging to different farm-size categories, including small, medium, and large-scale cultivators. Globally, bananas are an important food and commercial crop and contribute significantly to agricultural trade and rural livelihoods. The profitability of banana cultivation depends largely on production costs, productivity, resource utilization, market conditions, and the net returns generated per unit of cultivation. Therefore, an assessment of production and productivity is essential for understanding the economic viability of banana cultivation. The present study analyses the economics of banana cultivation in Erode District of Tamil Nadu, with particular emphasis on production costs, productivity, resource utilization, and the profitability of different categories of farmers. The study is predominantly descriptive and empirical in nature. Primary data were collected from selected banana cultivators belonging to different farm-size categories, while secondary data were obtained from published reports, official documents, and other relevant sources. Gobichettipalayam and Sathyamangalam Taluks of Erode District were selected randomly for the study. Appropriate statistical techniques were employed to analyse and interpret the data. The study also examines variations in cultivation practices and input utilization among small, medium, and large-scale banana growers. The findings indicate that small growers tend to cultivate different banana varieties with comparatively lower labour expenditure, whereas large-scale growers incur higher labour costs for planting, maintenance, and other cultivation activities. Large growers, however, generally possess greater access to productive resources such as milch animals, tractors, and agricultural implements, including disc ploughing equipment. The analysis further indicates that expenditure on planting and maintenance constitutes a significant component of the total cost of cultivation. The study highlights the importance of efficient resource utilization, cost management, and appropriate cultivation practices in improving the productivity and profitability of banana cultivation in Erode District.
Economic Analysis
References
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Author information
Dr. S. Deepa Lakshmi
Assistant Professor in Economics, Jairam Arts and Science College, Chinnathirupathi, Salem.