Comparative Study on Cost Analysis of Mechanical and Manual Transplanting of Rice

J Vijay *

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jammikunta, Karimnagar, Telangana (505122), India.

L Mahesh

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jammikunta, Karimnagar, Telangana (505122), India.

N Venkateshwar Rao

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jammikunta, Karimnagar, Telangana (505122), India.

D Sreenivasa Reddy

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jammikunta, Karimnagar, Telangana (505122), India.

G Venugopal

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jammikunta, Karimnagar, Telangana (505122), India.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.


Abstract

In Telangana, rice cultivation predominantly relies on traditional manual transplanting, which requires a significant labor force. However, the migration of agricultural laborers to urban areas in search of better wages has led to a shortage of workers, particularly during the critical transplanting season. To address this labor shortage and reduce cultivation costs, an efficient and cost-effective method of rice transplanting is essential, without compromising grain yield.

To explore such a solution, Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Jammikunta, Karimnagar district, conducted 30 frontline demonstrations between 2018-19 and 2020-21, showcasing rice cultivation using a self-propelled, walk-behind six-row mechanical transplanter. The performance of this mechanical method was evaluated by collecting data on various growth parameters, including plant height, number of productive tillers per hill, panicle length, grains per panicle, and grain yield, and comparing it with traditional manual transplanting.

Economic analysis revealed that the gross returns from mechanical transplanting were Rs. 135,956, compared to Rs. 128,629 for manual transplanting. Similarly, the net returns for mechanical and manual methods were Rs. 95,106 and Rs. 82,204, respectively. The benefit-cost ratio was found to be 3.32 for mechanical transplanting and 2.77 for manual transplanting. These findings indicate that mechanical rice transplanting offers a viable, cost-effective alternative, reducing labor requirements and drudgery while delivering higher yields.

Keywords: Rice, Oryza sativa, mechanization, front line demonstrations, mechanical transplanting


How to Cite

Vijay, J, L Mahesh, N Venkateshwar Rao, D Sreenivasa Reddy, and G Venugopal. 2024. “Comparative Study on Cost Analysis of Mechanical and Manual Transplanting of Rice”. Journal of Scientific Research and Reports 30 (10):39-43. https://doi.org/10.9734/jsrr/2024/v30i102428.