An economic analysis of grafted and non-grafted brinjal production: A comparative study in Pune, Maharashtra

Abstract

The present study aimed to compare the economic viability of grafted and non-grafted brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) cultivation in Pune district of Maharashtra. The study was based on primary data collected through a survey method for the agricultural year 2023-24. A total of 90 farmers (45 grafted and 45 non-grafted brinjal growers) were surveyed across nine villages in three tehsils Baramati, Daund, and Purandar. The cost of cultivation was estimated using standard cost concepts: Cost A, Cost B, and Cost C. The analysis revealed that although grafted brinjal cultivation involved a slightly lower total cost (₹7,86,794.21/ha) compared to non-grafted brinjal (₹7,96,732.23/ha), it produced a significantly higher yield of 1817.17 quintals/ha versus 1169.76 quintals/ha. This resulted in quite higher gross income for grafted brinjal (₹19, 15,271.15/ha) and net profit. The Benefit-Cost (B: C) ratio for grafted brinjal at Cost C was 2.43, notably higher than 1.54 for non-grafted brinjal, indicating superior profitability and return on investment. Grafted brinjal cultivation also showed better pest and disease resistance, reduced plant protection cost, and improved cost-efficiency per quintal. The findings support the adoption of grafted brinjal as a more productive, sustainable, and economically beneficial practice for farmers.