Performance evaluation and economic analysis of Bhut Jolokia (Capsicum chinense) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under polyhouse cultivation in NICRA-Adopted villages of Lakhimpur district, Assam

Abstract

Vegetable cultivation in Assam, Northeast India faces significant climatic challenges including high temperatures, humidity, heavy rainfall, strong winds and frequent pest and disease outbreaks. A key constraint is the prolonged rainfall from April to October which delays planting and restricts early or off-season production. Consequently, harvests often coincide with peak market periods, leading to oversupply and reduced prices.To address this, protected cultivation using structures like polyhouses offers a promising solution by creating controlled growing environments. Under the National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) project, five low-cost polyhouses (each 100 m²) were established in NICRA-adopted villages of Lakhimpur district to assess their effectiveness. Results showed a significant yield improvement under polyhouse conditions. Bhut jolokia produced 3.23 kg/m², compared to 1.16 kg/m² in open fields. Tomato yield increased to 7.068 kg/m² under polyhouses versus 1.92 kg/m² in open cultivation. Economic analysis further showed that bhut jolokia generated an average gross income of Rs. 1, 53,905 and an average net profit of Rs.109961.11, with a high benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 5.15. Tomato cultivation earned Rs. 22627.89 in gross income and Rs. 5529.16 in net profit with a BCR of 1.56.