Economic Viability and Comparative Constraint Analysis of Low-cost vs. Hi-Tech Protected Cultivation in Temperate North India

Abstract

In recent years, protected cultivation has emerged as one of the most important technologies for enhancing productivity and farm income in regions facing climatic vagaries with adverse agro-climatic conditions. The study aims to evaluate the economic performance of low-cost and hi-tech polyhouses in district Srinagar, J&K (UT) and to identify various constraints affecting their adoption. Using a multistage sampling technique, 24 polyhouses (12 low-cost and 12 hi-tech) from four blocks of district Srinagar were selected (Harwan, Srinagar, Qamarwari, and Khanmoh). Primary data was collected via personal interviews, while secondary information was sourced from government departments and published reports. Economic viability of polyhouse structure was assessed using production costs, gross and net returns, and benefit–cost ratio (BCR). Constraints were evaluated using the Garrett Ranking Technique. Results revealed that hi-tech polyhouses generated higher gross and net returns compared to low-cost structures, irrespective of block. Relatively higher BCR was obtained in the Harwan block with respect to Hi-tech polyhouse (3.03) and in Qamarwari in the case of low-cost polyhouses (3.77). For all blocks in district Srinagar, the BCR value exceeded unity for both polyhouse types, confirming their economic feasibility. Variations in profitability were mainly found due to differences in productivity and quality rather than operating costs. Constraint analysis showed high initial investment as the most severe constraint for hi-tech polyhouses, irrespective of location, whereas polyfilm longevity and structural issues dominated in low-cost polyhouses. The study concluded that protected cultivation is economically viable in Srinagar district, though targeted policy support, improved input access, and technical interventions are essential to enhance sustainability, profitability and adoption.