Economic Analysis of Bivoltine Silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) Seed Crop Production in Tree Mulberry as Influenced by Graded Nutrient Management

Abstract

Mulberry (Morus spp.) leaf quality plays a crucial role in determining the growth, cocoon productivity and reproductive performance of the silkworm Bombyx mori L. The present investigation was carried out to assess the economics of bivoltine silkworm seed crop production raised on tree mulberry fertilized with graded levels of nutrients. The experiment comprised two levels of farmyard manure (FYM), four levels of recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) and foliar spray of micronutrient (POSHAN) arranged in a factorial randomized block design with sixteen treatment combinations. Economic analysis was performed by estimating cost of cultivation, gross returns, net returns and benefit–cost (B:C) ratio. Among the treatments, the highest cost of production was recorded in T16 (₹1,63,368 ha-¹ crop-¹), whereas the lowest cost was observed in T1 (₹1,04,850 ha-¹ crop-¹). In FC₁ breed, maximum gross returns of ₹4,19,237 ha-¹ crop-¹ and net returns of ₹3,12,119 ha-¹ crop-¹ were recorded in T8 (20 t FYM ha-¹ yr-¹ + 125% RDF + foliar spray of POSHAN), with the highest B:C ratio of 3.43. Similarly, in FC₂ breed, T8 recorded the highest gross returns of ₹4,38,660 ha-¹ crop-¹, net returns of ₹3,31,542 ha-¹ crop-¹ and B:C ratio of 3.59. Although T16 registered comparatively higher gross returns, its B:C ratio was lower due to increased input costs. Therefore, application of 20 t FYM ha-¹ yr-¹ combined with 125% RDF and foliar spray of POSHAN (T8) was found to be the most economically viable nutrient management practice for bivoltine seed crop production under tree mulberry cultivation. This study provides a clear economic framework for optimizing nutrient management in sericulture, particularly under tree mulberry systems. The findings are highly relevant for improving profitability and resource-use efficiency in bivoltine seed production. Additionally, the results contribute to sustainable intensification strategies by balancing input costs with productivity gains. The study also offers practical recommendations for farmers and policymakers aiming to enhance the economic viability of sericulture under field conditions.