Comparative Economic Analysis of Natural and Conventional Wheat Cultivation in Middle Gujarat

The aim of this study was to compare the economic aspects of natural and conventional wheat cultivation by collecting primary data on key economic parameters. Two districts of middle Gujarat were purposively selected based on their high concentration of wheat during 2023–24. For a detailed study, 13 model farms identified by Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), practicing wheat cultivation using all five pillars of natural farming, were selected. Additionally, 13 farmers from the same villages with similar socio-economic background, practicing conventional wheat farming, were included to facilitate a comparative analysis of economics and profitability. Findings revealed that although natural farming reduced yield and gross income compared to conventional farming but it offered substantial economic advantages due to lower input costs and premium market prices. As a result, natural wheat farming achieved a higher benefit-cost ratio, making it economically more efficient and profitable on a per-cost basis. Thus, natural wheat farming can be considered a viable and financially attractive alternative for farmers seeking lower investment requirements and improved cost efficiency.