Study the Economic Analysis of Amaranthus for Different Lining Materials of Farm Ponds in Konkan Region, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

The Konkan region’s specific challenges, such as high rainfall and poor water retention in soil, farm ponds with durable and efficient linings are indispensable for maximizing the benefits of rainwater harvesting. The effectiveness of farm ponds depends significantly on the choice of lining material. Lining ensures that water stored during the rainy season remains available for agricultural use throughout the year. With climate change causing erratic rainfall patterns, lined ponds provide a more reliable water storage solution, supporting sustainable agriculture and improving farmers' resilience against water scarcity. The study evaluate the economic viability of different materials, helping farmers choose the best options based on durability, cost, and maintenance requirements. This study is necessary for selecting durable and eco-friendly materials. The study contributes to study the economics of lining material. The field experiment is conducted during Rabi season of 2017-18, at the Instructional Farm, Department of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli. In treatment 3 lining material had mechanical properties like puncture resistance, busting strength, ash content, seam strength and carbon black content showed better results and low costas compared to lining material used in treatment 1 and treatment 2. The benefit cost (B.C.) ratio was worked out by dividing gross returns with to total expenditure incurred for production. Standard procedure adopted to calculate per hector cost of cultivation for Amaranths by following the recommended package of practices. The lowest input cost of Rs. 1,64,226 and a total cost of Rs. 2,85,385. The gross returns reached Rs. 5,82,500, yielding net returns of Rs. 4,18,274 at input cost and Rs. 2,97,115 at total cost. The B:C ration was highest in Treatment 3.