International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Arushi Mandial, Chandresh Guleria, Kshama Kumari, Shilpa Rani, Prakash Singh and Kshitij Mandial

abstract
Himachal Pradesh, known for its diverse agro-climatic conditions, is a significant hub for fruit and vegetable production. The present study was undertaken to assess the economics of apple cultivation in Himachal Pradesh. For this purpose, primary data were collected from three blocks Rohru, Kotkhai, and Jubbal of Shimla district. A total of 180 farmers were selected from these areas for the present study. The findings revealed that the average initial cost of planting per 100 apple plants was ? 42583.63. The establishment cost, which covers the expenses from 1 to 5 years of age of the plants, ranged between ? 28768.21 and ? 40737.50. The results depicted an increase in total cost of cultivation in early years of plantation and was calculated to be ? 62564.20, ? 69677.65 and ? 70541.07 per hundred plants in the age groups of 6-11, 12-17 and 18-22 years, respectively and then gradually decreased to ? 64933.62 in the age group of >22 years. It was observed that the average production was recorded highest in age group of 12 to 17 years (68.43 qntl. per 100 plants) with higher net returns of ? 354880 per 100 plants. Financial feasibility of apple cultivation was also analysed in which Net present value, IRR and B-C ratio were calculated. These economic indicators found to be highly feasible and profitable to farmers.