Economic Analysis and Financial Feasibility of Sericulture in Amravati District of Maharashtra, India
K.S. Dhavale
Shri Shivaji Agriculture College, Amravati, Maharashtra, India.
S. M. Sarap
Agricultural Economics and Statics Section, Shri Shivaji Agriculture College, Amravati, Maharashtra, India.
Y.R. Sable
Agricultural Economics and Statics Section, Shri Shivaji Agriculture College, Amravati, Maharashtra, India.
S.N. Ingle *
Agricultural Entomology Section, Shri Shivaji Agriculture College, Amravati, Maharashtra, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
In India, sericulture is a significant agro-based rural sector, offering substantial employment and income, particularly in non-traditional regions such as Amravati district in Maharashtra. This study evaluates the economic viability and financial feasibility of cocoon production through mulberry sericulture. A purposive sample of 60 sericulture units across four Tehsils was studied for the agricultural year 2023–24. Cost and returns analysis were conducted along with financial appraisal using Payback Period, Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Returns (IRR), Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) and Profitability Index (PI). The average total cost per batch of 250 DFLs was ₹40,725.80, with annual gross returns of ₹4,42,620 and net income of ₹1,72,470. Financial metrics indicated a payback period of 1.80 years, NPV of ₹2,48,917, IRR of 11.04%, BCR of 1.82, and PI of 1.79, establishing sericulture as a financially viable and economically rewarding enterprise in the region.
Keywords: Feasibility, sericulture, payback period, net present value, internal rate of returns, benefit cost ratio profitability index