International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Ravi Shankar Kumar

abstract
This study assesses the economic parameters of integrated fish cum makhana culture versus makhana monoculture in Kishanganj district, Bihar, based on a survey of 80 farmers using stratified random sampling. Results indicate that while integrated fish cum makhana culture involves higher production costs (?72,456/ha) compared to makhana monoculture (?39972/ha), it delivers significantly greater gross income (?227,640/ha) and net income (?155,184/ha). The system also demonstrates superior profitability, with a cost-income ratio (CIR) of 0.23 and a benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 3.14, outperforming makhana monoculture (gross income: ?112140/ha; net income: ?72168/ha; BCR: 2.80). Major constraints include illegal fishing, floods, water scarcity, high labor costs, and a shortage of skilled labor. The study strongly recommends adopting integrated fish-makhana farming over monoculture in the wetlands of Kishanganj district. Policy measures should include leveraging MGNREGA for wetland maintenance, promoting community-based management, and investing in skill development to advance integrated aquaculture in the region.