Agrotechnology

Economics of castor seed and eri cocoon production with selected castor genotypes

4^th International Conference on Agriculture & Horticulture

July 13-15, 2015 Beijing, China

S Chandrashekhar and Pallavi

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: Agrotechnol

Abstract:

Apart from the marvelous mulberry silk, which is quite popular the world over, there are few other varieties that are equally attractive. Among them, eri silk is becoming popular in recent years. Castor, a minor oilseed crop can be linked with ericulture to maximize the returns if right choice of castor genotype is made. Keeping this in view, castor can be exploited both for castor seed and leaf production which inturn helps in eri cocoon production. The study revealed that, high gross returns were realized by rearing eri silkworms on leaves of DCS-85 (Rs.30,584/ha). The genotypes 48-1 (Rs.21,636), DCH-32 (Rs.19,594) and DCS-9 (Rs.19,340) were found next best and the least with Local genotype (Rs.17,613). Net profit was more with DCS-85 (Rs.16,534/ ha), However, it was less with Local genotype (Rs.4,643). Significant variation in B:C ratio was observed among selected castor genotypes when they were used for both castor seed and eri cocoon production. B:C ratio was more with DCS-85 (1.777:1) followed by that in respect of 48-1 (0.578:1), DCH-32 (0.468:1), DCS-9 (0.421:1), DCH-177 (0.391:1) and Kranti (0.372:1). However, B:C ratio was least with Local genotype (0.358:1). Thus it is inferred that, castor genotype DCS-85 can be raised under rainfed condition for seed production and ericulture (at 50% defoliation) to earn more gross return (Rs. 30,584 / ha), net profit (Rs. 16,534 / ha) and B:C ratio (1.777:1). Hence, DCS-85 genotype could be used with cost effectiveness for dual purpose of castor seed and eri cocoon production under rainfed situation.

Biography :

S Chandrashekhar is working as Associate Professor at College of Sericulture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru and is involved in Teaching, Research and Extension activities since seventeen years. He organized and participated in many national and international conferences, workshops etc. and published more than 50 scientific publications including research articles, books etc. He is recipient of many State and University awards and served as PI and Co-PI for externally funded projects.He also served as NSS Programme Officer since 9 years and organized health camps, social environmental and national integration camps for the benefit of students and farming community.