International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

Results revealed that the average cost of cultivation was ?2,77,444.70 per hectare, rising with farm size. Variable costs accounted for about 75% of the total, dominated by hired labour, planting material (?51,504/ha; 18.6%), fertilizers (?10%), and manures, while fixed costs (?24%) remained stable, mainly due to the rental value of owned land (?61,775; 22%). The average yield was 781.52 quintals/ha, generating gross returns of ?8.23 lakh/ha.

Across cost concepts, returns were highest over Cost A1/A2 (?6.22 lakh/ha) and lowest under the comprehensive Cost C3 (?5.18 lakh/ha). Net returns over Cost C2 averaged ?5.45 lakh/ha, with profitability consistently higher on larger farms. The cost of production averaged ?355.06 per quintal. The benefit-cost ratio was most favorable at Cost A1 (1:3.09 overall) and least at Cost C3 (1:1.69 overall), while at Cost C2 it stood at 1:1.96, affirming the profitability of banana cultivation.

The study concludes that banana cultivation is a highly profitable and economically viable enterprise in Raigarh district. Efficient labour management, mechanization, and input optimization are key to further improving returns. Policy support in the form of quality planting materials, cost-effective fertilizers, and farmer training on resource-use efficiency would enhance the sustainability and competitiveness of banana production in the region.