Benefit-cost analysis of Acacia senegal based agri-horti-silviculture model suitable for small farmers

Present study was conducted at ICAR-Central Agroforestry Research Institute (CAFRI), Jhansi and the main objective of this article is to provide benefit-cost analysis of Acacia senegal based agri-horti-silviculture model systematically for 10 years so that smallholders can be motivated for taking decision in favor of adopting agroforestry on their farms. The agri-horti-silviculture model, comprising of gum-(A. senegal) and fruit-yielding plant species (Aegle marmelos, Citrus limon and Carissa carandas) was established in July, 2009 under ICAR Network Project “Harvesting, Processing and Value Addition of Natural Resins and Gums ”. Intercropping commenced from 2009 and continued thereafter adopting cropping sequence of Phaseolus mungo/Vigna radiata-Lens culinaris/Brassica campestris/Triticum aestivum for summer-winter seasons. For economic analysis of the model, benefit cost ratio (BCR), net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR) and payback period (PBP) were used as measures of economic efficiency. Findings revealed that A. senegal based agri-horti-silviculture model consisting of gum-and fruit-yielding plant species attained B: C ratio of 1.0 in 3rd year. Annual B: C ratio for first five and second five years were 0.93 and 1.52, respectively; and for total 10 years, it was found as 1.32. The per hectare discounted total cost, total returns and net returns of model were found as Rs. 202442, Rs. 240656 and Rs. 38214, respectively. The discounted B: C ratio was found as 1.19 and NPV Rs. 38214. The PBP was found as 8.41. It is hoped that this scientific data will motivate small farmers to adopt agroforestry on their farms.