Profitability of organic and inorganic farming of Suru Sugarcane in Maharashtra

The profitability of organic farming over inorganic farming of sura sugarcane in Maharashtra has been studied using primary data from 30 sample sugarcane growers (15 each from organic and inorganic) of two Tehsils, viz. Walwa and Tasgaon of the Sangli district, during the year 2004–05. The data have been analyzed by tabular method to the cost concept of the economics. It has been found that the area and productivity of sugarcane have decreased and production has depicted an up and down trend during this period. The use of inputs like bullock labour, machinery, seedlings, irrigation charges and plant protection have been found lower in organic than inorganic farming of sugarcane. The organic farming of sugarcane has lower yield (82.47/ha) than that in the inorganic farming (93.58/ha), but the quality of sugarcane was better in the former. The per quintal cost of organic farming has been found higher than that of inorganic (Rs 63.73) farming. But, the per hectare net profit of organic farming of suru sugarcane has been observed as Rs 98979, which is higher than that in the inorganic farming (Rs 62008), because this sugarcane is used for the jaggery prupose. In the study, organic farming of suru sugarcane has been found more profitable than the inorganic farming.