Production economics and marketing of finger millet in Mugu district

Abstract

Mugu district in Nepal, despite facing geographical constraints, hold immense potential for finger millet production, which can improve the living standard of its residents. A study conducted in Mugu district evaluated economics of production and marketing which includes cost return analysis, marketing dynamics, constraints and recommendations associated with finger millet cultivation. Drawing from the sample of 120 farmers from Khatyad Rural Municipality and Chayanath Rara Municipality, where finger millet is extensively grown. Household survey was carried out to collect primary information from growers conducting interviews supplemented by secondary data from various sources. The cost-return analysis underscores the profitability of finger millet cultivation, with a per-hectare cost estimated at NPR 43,127.71, gross returns reaching NPR 50,790, resulting in net returns of NPR 7,662.29 with NPR 28.80 of cost per kg of production. The productivity was 1497 Kg/Ha and benefit cost ratio of 1.18. Factors such as labor cost and cost of fertilizer were statistically significant coefficients suggesting change in labor cost and cost of fertilizer influence annual finger millet income. Direct marketing of finger millet from producers to consumers was most frequent, for which the producer receives NPR 0.98 out of NPR 1.00 paid by consumer. Attack of pests such as rats and blast disease followed by lack of infrastructures and market intelligence were the major production problems. Growers highly suggests to have technical support for producing beverages along with availability of modern production technology.