FINANCIAL VIABILITY AND MARKET INTEGRATION OF VEGETABLE (CURRY) BANANA CULTIVATION: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY FORM TAMILNADU

Vegetable (Curry) Banana crop cultivation plays a crucial role in India’s horticultural
economy contributing notably to agricultural GDP and rural livelihoods. India is the
world’s largest producer of bananas, accounting for over 25 percent of global output, with
Tamil Nadu being a leading producer. With this context, the present study focused the
economic feasibility and profitability of vegetable (curry) banana cultivation in Sivagangai
district from Tamil Nadu. Primary data were collected from 50 farmers in Illagudi Village,
Devakottai block, for the study year 2024-25. Using cost and income analysis, the study
found that average cost of cultivation was Rs. 56582 per acre, while the gross value of
production reached Rs. 19316, yielding a farm business income of Rs. 136531 per acre.
Irrigation constituted the largest cost component (36.6%), and productivity averaged 780
bunches per acre. The findings indicate that curry banana cultivation is highly profitable
and economically viable. However, challenges such as high input costs, lack of value
addition, and poor market facilities remain. Strengthening marketing infrastructure, promoting
value-added products, and improving water-use efficiency are essential for sustainable
growth.