Evaluation of the Cost Economics of Hydroponic System for the Crop Grown in Polyhouse Conditions

Abstract

The study evaluates the cost economics of cultivating basil using a hydroponic system within a naturally ventilated polyhouse at Dr. NTR College of Agricultural Engineering, Bapatla. The aim of this study was to analyze the economic-financial viability of basil cultivation under hydroponic system of Nutrient Film Technique (NFT). The analysis considers both fixed and variable costs. Yields and costs were extrapolated to an infrastructure of 250 m². The results further revealed that the average yield of basil crop was about 238 kg under hydroponics. For a polyhouse area of 250 m², the total cost incurred for basil production was Rs. 2,21,280, with a gross return of Rs. 2,38,000 and a net return of Rs. 16,720. The benefit-cost ratio was calculated at 1.08 with a payback period of approximately 3.19 years. Further optimization by increasing the number of A-frames and net cups could significantly enhance yield and economic returns, with projections indicating a possible benefit-cost ratio of over 3.0 and a net return of Rs. 4,21,970 for 600 kg of basil.