Asian Research Journal of Agriculture

This study assesses the cost and returns of Isabgol (Plantago ovata) and Chandrasur (Lepidium sativum). For the present study Ratlam, Mandsaur and Neemuch districts in Malwa Plateau region of Madhya Pradesh were selected on the basis of maximum area covered by the Isabgol (Plantago ovata) crop. From the selected districts two blocks were selected from each district for the study. Five villages from each block were selected on the basis of highest area covered by selected Medicinal and Aromatic crops. Thus, the sample consisted of 90 farmers of Isabgol (Plantago ovata) and Chandrasur (Lepidium sativum) crops. The primary data were collected through personal interview using a pre-tested questionnaire. For estimation cost and returns, cost concepts i.e. cost A₁, A₂, B₁, B₂, C₁, C and C₃ and net family labour and farm business incomes and B.C. ratio were analysed in this study. For clarity, Cost A1 refers to paid-out operational costs; A2 includes A1 plus rent for leased-in land; B1 includes A2 plus interest on fixed capital; B2 incorporates rental value of owned land; and C1–C3 include imputed family labour and managerial cost. Social categories of respondents are denoted as SC (Scheduled Caste), ST (Scheduled Tribe), OBC (Other Backward Class) and General category. The study showed that average family size of sample farmers was found five. As per caste wise distribution of sample respondents, majority of respondents belong to OBC category (82 percent) followed by general (9 percent), SC (7 percent) and ST (2 percent). Regarding the age and educational level it was found that more number of sample farmers belongs to the middle age group (51 percent), followed by old age (29) and young age group (20 percent) of sample farmers. It was observed that 56 percent sample farmers were educated up to primary level followed by higher secondary school (31 percent) and under graduation (13 percent) level. The cost of cultivation was estimated to be Rs. 49514 and                   43504.41 for Isabgol (Plantago ovata) and Chandrasur (Lepidium sativum) crops. The study concluded that Isabgol (Plantago ovata) cultivation is economically viable and profitable, with a B.C. ratio of 1:1.91 & 1:1.95 and a net income of Rs. 45,313 and 41569.59 per hectare. Hence, expanding its cultivation area within the existing cropping pattern can significantly enhance the income and livelihood of farmers in the Malwa Plateau region. It is recommended to promote Isabgol (Plantago ovata) and Chandrasur (Lepidium sativum) cultivation through awareness programs, training, and input support. Government and extension agencies should provide technical guidance, improved seeds, and market linkages. Expanding Isabgol (Plantago ovata) and Chandrasur (Lepidium sativum) in suitable areas can enhance farmers’ income, ensure better resource utilization, and contribute to sustainable agricultural development in the Malwa Plateau region.