Identifying suitable chilli varieties for sustainable livelihoods

Abstract

The cultivation of chillies (Capsicum annuum L.) is affected by soil fertility, agroclimatic conditions, and varietal selection. For farmers to increase their income and ensure sustainable cultivation, it is essential to identify high-yielding and well-adapted cultivars. This study assessed the performance of two chilli cultivars, Eagle and Heena, in Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh, as part of the HRDP project. Ten farmers from the Beniram Katara block participated in the field trial; five of them grew Eagle, and the other five grew Heena. An excellent location for assessing chilli varieties is Beniram Katara, a crucial agricultural area in the Kaushambi district that is distinguished by its rich soil and substantial farming operations. The input cost, production, sale price, gross income, and net income of the two types were evaluated by a comparison study. Direct data collection from the farmers' fields was done, and a two-sample t-test was used for analysis. The cost of growing the two types did not change significantly, according to the study. Additionally, the differences were not statistically significant in terms of productivity, gross income, or net profit. The Eagle variety, however, sold for more money than the Heena variety, which improved the overall financial return. Compared to the Eagle variety (T1), which produced 12.90 qt per plot from 0.10 of land, the Heena variety (T2) produced 13.55 qt per plot, which was quantitatively superior. For the cultivation of the Eagle variety, the highest reported income was Rs. 55,090, with a net monetary return of Rs. 35,401 from 0.10; however, the Heena variety did not significantly differ. Relative to the Heena variety (Rs. 3,941), the Eagle variety (Rs. 4,270) was significantly more expensive per quintal. Despite the Heena variety's higher production, the Eagle variety's higher market price led to an increased net return.