Comparative Economics of Cashew Cultivation under Conventional Farming versus Natural Farming System in Karnataka

Author: Anand B. Mastiholi, Mallu B. Deshetti, Naveen Puttaswamy, Sowmya B., H. P. Maheswarappa, Shantappa T. and Uma V.

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Abstract

This study investigated (i) cashew area growth; production and productivity of cashew (ii) estimated cost and profit structure of cashew cultivation, (iii) the financial feasibility of cashew cultivation under conventional v/s natural farming system at Horticultural Research and Extension Centre, Kanabargi, Belagavi district. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and financial feasibility method. A study showed that annual maintenance cost of cashew under conventional system (Rs. 97,785/ha) was higher compared to natural farming system (Rs. 90,400/ha). Cashews are harvested once in a year. In natural cultivation, the average yield obtained in the orchard was higher (16.76 q/ha) compared to the conventional orchard (17.15 q/ha). However, the selling price was Rs. 25, 775 and Rs. 25,766 in conventional and natural farming system, respectively. The feasibility analysis showed that the discount rate of NPV @ 12% was positive at Rs. 9, 78, 395 and Rs. 8, 52, 919 in conventional and natural farming system. Correspondingly, B: C ratios were 2.43 and 2.35 in conventional and natural farming systems. The payback period was found higher in conventional farming at 5.11 years compared to 5.02 years in NFS. The internal rate of returns was 30 percent & 27 percent in conventional & natural farming system, respectively. Therefore, cashew investments were financially profitable in both the cultivation methods. However, cultivation of cashew in natural farming has shown several positive externalities, viz. improvement in soil fertility, nut quality, taste and also positive impact on human health through consumption of naturally produced cashew end product.

Keywords

Cashew cultivation, Conventional farming, Natural farming, Financial feasibility

Conclusion

In this background, the horticulture sector offers great opportunities to increase the income of the farmers. The research study was conducted at HREC, Kanabargi, Belagavi district Karnataka and evaluated the economics of cashew cultivation. The study showed that cashew cultivation was cheaper under natural cultivation compared to conventional cultivation method because labour costs and input costs were lower in NFS. The cost of maintaining the garden increased with the age of the crop. The natural farming system included regular monitoring and management strategies to avoid pests and diseases compared to conventional farming system. Although natural method of cultivation achieved a slightly lower yield on an average, it continued to help to improve the soil fertility and microclimate, i.e. positive externality in improving soil fertility, nut quality and human health due to the consumption of naturally grown cashew nuts that do not contain chemical residues.

References

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How to cite this article

Anand B. Mastiholi, Mallu B. Deshetti, Naveen Puttaswamy, Sowmya B., H. P. Maheswarappa, Shantappa T. and Uma V. (2023). Comparative Economics of Conventional Farming versus Natural Farming System in Cashew Cultivation in Karnataka. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 218-224.