ECONOMIC VIABILITY AND MARKET DYNAMICS OF HYBRID MAIZE PRODUCTION IN GARIYABAND DISTRICT, CHHATTISGARH

Abstract

This study presents an economic analysis of the production and marketing of hybrid maize in the Gariyaband district of Chhattisgarh. Primary data were collected from 70 randomly selected maize growers across three villages in the Mainpur block for the agricultural year 2021-22. The average household comprised 2.45 members, with an observed cropping intensity of 178.33%. The average farm sizes among the sampled growers were 0.71 hectares for marginal, 1.65 hectares for small, 2.75 hectares for medium, and 4.94 hectares for large farmers. The overall average cost of cultivating hybrid maize was found to be Rs. 29,731.81 per hectare, with costs increasing in relation to farm size. The input-output ratio for hybrid maize cultivation was 1:2.35, indicating favorable returns. The net return averaged Rs. 69,723.94 per hectare, while the average yield in the study area was 52.28 quintals per hectare. The income over various cost concepts was calculated as follows: Cost A1 at Rs. 86,217.89, Cost A2 also at Rs. 86,217.89, Cost B1 at Rs. 85,450.64, Cost B2 at Rs. 32,169.18, Cost C1 at Rs. 81,532.78, Cost C2 at Rs. 69,733.94, and Cost C3 at Rs. 66,761.81. These findings highlight the economic viability of hybrid maize farming and underscore the importance of adopting improved agricultural practices to enhance productivity and profitability.