Cost and returns structure of Banana production: An empirical analysis of Satara district, Maharashtra

Abstract:

This study investigates the financial expenditure and profitability parameters associated with banana (Musa spp.) cultivation across the Satara region in Maharashtra. Field records for the 2024–25 agricultural cycle were gathered from 90 horticultural producers distributed across six settlements within the Phaltan and Man administrative subdivisions, chosen through multi-stage random sampling across small, medium, and large operating tiers. The analytical methodology integrated standard economic valuation frameworks, namely Cost A, Cost B, and Cost C. Among the surveyed holdings, mean operational acreage measured 1.68 hectares, with banana orchards representing 0.38 hectares. Cumulative outlays under total cultivation expenses (Cost C) averaged ₹4,56,220.63 per hectare against a mean productivity output of 651.84 quintals per hectare. Overall gross returns reached ₹8,80,820.02 per hectare, yielding a net profit of ₹4,24,599.39 per hectare over total expenses alongside a Benefit–Cost ratio of 1.93, indicating strong commercial viability across all operational scales.