COST–BENEFIT ANALYSIS AND ECONOMIC VIABILITY OF SELECTED MEDICINAL PLANT CULTIVATION IN IDUKKI DISTRICT

Abstract

Medicinal plants have significant potential for improving farm income and promoting economically viable agricultural activities. The present study was undertaken to assess the production performance, cost of cultivation, returns and economic viability of selected medicinal plants, namely Sathavari, Thippali and Chittaratha, in Idukki district of Kerala. The study analysed the major cost components, productivity, gross returns, net returns and benefit–cost ratio of the selected crops. The study concludes that Sathavari has the greatest economic potential among the selected medicinal plants, while Chittaratha also offers considerable revenue-generating potential if its major input costs can be effectively managed. Improved input-use efficiency, particularly in the management of planting material, manure and labour, can further enhance the profitability and sustainability of medicinal plant cultivation in the study area