An economic study of Chawki rearing centers in Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Sericulture, as an agro-based industry, presents significant opportunities for farming communities. The rearing of young silkworms, known as Chawki rearing, is essential for a successful sericulture crop harvest. Chawki Rearing Centres (CRCs), which distribute young silkworms, have become increasingly popular. This study aimed to assess the cost of production and profitability of CRCs in Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem, Tiruvannamalai, Tiruppur, Erode, Coimbatore, Dindigul, Theni, and Tirunelveli districts of Tamil Nadu through a structured survey conducted during 2021-22. The study included a total sample of 45 CRCs. The cost of production (including fixed and variable costs) was found to be Rs.4,70,330 in small CRCs, Rs.4,15,660 in medium CRCs, and Rs.3,96,125 in large CRCs. The total net return of CRCs was Rs.3,69,670 in small CRCs, Rs.6,24,340 in medium CRCs, and Rs.7,23,875 in large CRCs. The highest benefit-cost ratio was observed in large CRCs at 2.83, followed by 2.51 in medium CRCs and 1.79 in small CRCs.