Coconut Cultivation in South Konkan Region of Maharashtra: A Study of Economic Well-being

Abstract

A study on economic well-being was conducted in the South Konkan region with 144 sample coconut growers. The objective behind this study was to estimate cost, returns, profitability and financial feasibility of coconut production. The study was conducted by means of adoption index, standard cost concept and financial feasibility measures. Numerous technologies have been suggested by the Regional Coconut Research Station, Bhatye, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, to enhance the quality of coconut production after extensive research in the field. The extent up to which the technologies were adopted was 45.51 per cent overall. This suggested a wide scope for raising the adoption rate. The economic analysis of coconut production in the research area showed that growing coconuts through the use of recommended technology was profitable. It was observed that farmers are saving more on each expense due to the high adoption rate. In coconut cultivation, the net present value was positive (Rs. 230665). The B: C ratio is greater than one (1.41) and the internal rate of return (IRR) is higher than the going interest rate (23.01%). This demonstrated the economic viability of coconut production. The policy should be made to spread the recommendations to the farmers and training should be provided to farmers on larger scale for more profitable production.