Benefit-cost analysis of existing and improved agroforestry systems in mid-hill zone of Himachal Pradesh

The present study was conducted in Sirmaur district of mid-hill zone of Himachal Pradesh to evaluate benefit and cost of existing `Agri-pastoral-horti-silviculture (APHS) system’ and improved agroforestry system. Under all farm situations the gross income was estimated as Rs 4.20 lakhs. At overall level the net income of the system turned out to Rs 2.38 lakhs in the study area agriculture being the major contributor followed by pastures, horticulture and forestry. Total cost incurred on components of system was 1.82 lakhs. The comparative economics of existing and new agroforestry technology showed that there existed a scope of increasing Rs 29722 per ha as an incremental income from new agroforestry technology over existing practice for pasture/grassland areas under an average situation.