Gross and Net returns of Sweet Sorghum Cultivation

The net returns realized in cultivation of sweet sorghum excluding family labor was Rs. 6,490 ha-1 during 2008. Net returns excluding family labour obtained from sweet sorghum was negative by Rs. 441 ha^-1during 2009 due to dry spell after one month of sowing. Additionally, earheads were also not harvested for additional income from grains resulting in negative returns being realized. Net returns further declined to Rs. 1833 ha-¹during 2010 due to heavy rains before harvest leading to loss in both stalk and grain (Table 1). However, in 2011 farmers obtained positive net returns of around Rs. 1500 / ha due to better climatic conditions.   The final analysis is not yet complete. 

Table 1. Gross and net returns to cultivation of sweet sorghum, Ibrahimbad

Indicators	Year
	2010	2009	2008
Stalk quantity(t ha-1)	6.7	14	18
Stalk price (Rs t-1)	800	700	600
Grain (kg ha-1)	301	119	954
Grain price (Rs kg-1)	8	7	8
Gross income (Rs ha-1)	7,664	10,530	18,255
Total costs excluding family labour (Rs ha-1)	9,496	10,971	11,765
Net Returns excluding only family labour  (Rs ha-1)	(1,833)	(441)	6,490