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Journal of Social Welfare and Management

Volume  6, Issue 4, October - December 2014, Pages 219-224
 

Original Article

Sapota – An Ideal Plant for Cropping System in Tuticorin District

S. Kayarkanni

*Asso. Professor of Economics, Sri Parasakthi College (Autonomous), Courtallam, Tamil Nadu, India.

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Abstract

The major fruits grown in India include mango, banana, papaya, orange, mosumbi, guava, apple, pineapple, sapota, ber, pomegranate, strawberry, litchi etc. Sapota, also known as “Chikku” in North India, being a deep rooted and drought-resistant crop has been found to be an ideal plant for two tier cropping system with chillies as an intercrop in dry areas of Tuticorin district. This paper attempts to examine cost and returns of Sapota cultivation in Tuticorin District. The proportionate random sampling technique has been adopted to select 40 Sapota farmers from Kovilpatti and 40 Sapota farmers from Puthur blocks of Tuticorin district. Percentage analysis, averages, ranking method and standard deviation, chi square tests and probability analysis were used for the analysis. The results from this study were found that the net return that is cost of production over gross return was Rs.22430.50 in Kovilpatti and it was Rs.13182.80 in Puthur. Yield per acre in money term was Rs.29683.70 in Kovilpatti and Rs.17864.30 in Puthur. Net return figures also show a higher in Kovilpatti compared to Puthur. In Kovilpatti block, the most important problems in the production of Sapota were heavy investments, pest and disease and climatic factors which were ranked as first, second and third respectively. Long gestation period and inadequate credit facilities were ranked fourth and fifth. In Puthur block, it was clear from the analysis that the most important factor which severely affected mango production was the pest and disease, needs heavy investment and climate factors which were ranked 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. Inadequate credit facilities and Long gestation period were ranked fourth and fifth respectively. Based on the results of the present study it is concluded that there is a need for adequate attention towards mitigating various constraints for overall development of Sapota cultivation which has occupied a major place in cropping system in the study area, so as to improve the economic level of the rural people by providing employment. Thus, it could be concluded that investment in Sapota orchard was economically feasible and financially viable in both the blocks.

Keywords: Agriculture; Orchard; Horticulture; Intercrop; Indirect cost; Depreciation.


Corresponding Author : S. Kayarkanni