Economic analysis of sugarcane crop cultivation in Gonda District of Uttar Pradesh

This study examines the economics of sugarcane cultivation in the Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh, focusing on farm structure, cropping pattern, intensity, and cost-return analysis across varying farm sizes. Using a multi-stage stratified purposive cum random sampling technique, 100 sugarcane farmers were surveyed across five villages in Chhapia block during the agricultural year 2024-25. The sample comprised 60 marginal, 24 small, and 16 medium-sized farms. Findings reveal that the average landholding was 1.10 ha, with gross cropped area averaging 2.39 ha. Cropping intensity was highest on marginal farms (232.2%), followed by small (218.6%) and medium farms (204.4%), averaging 217.27%. The cost of sugarcane cultivation per hectare was highest for medium farms (Rs. 120,801.77), compared to small (Rs. 113,703.97) and marginal farms (Rs. 106,551.41), with the overall average being Rs. 110,548.09. Labour, planting materials, and land rental formed major cost components. Gross income averaged Rs. 252,257.86 per hectare, with marginal farms achieving the highest income (Rs. 255,096.50). Average net income stood at Rs. 141,709.77 per hectare, with marginal farms again leading (Rs. 148,545.09). The cost of production averaged Rs. 162.29 per quintal, and yield averaged 681.78 quintals/ha. Input-output ratios and benefit-cost ratios declined with increasing farm size, with marginal farms demonstrating the highest economic efficiency (B:C ratio = 1.39). These results underscore the relatively higher profitability and land use efficiency of marginal farms in sugarcane cultivation.