Comparative economics of high density planting under Indo-Israel production technology and conventional method of Nagpur mandarin cultivation in Amravati district of Maharashtra

Mandarins (Citrus reticulata Blanco) are a major fruit in global citrus production, with significant cultivation in India, particularly in the Vidarbha region for the Nagpur Mandarin. Despite its prominence, productivity is constrained by factors such as senile orchards, wide spacing, and suboptimal management. This study evaluates the impact of high-density planting (HDP) under Indo-Israel Production Technology (IIPT) compared to conventional planting methods. HDP involves closer tree spacing to enhance land use efficiency and productivity. The study assesses establishment costs, amortization, and cultivation expenses associated with both methods. Results indicate that HDP requires a higher initial investment (?510,982.24) compared to conventional planting (?375,979.24), leading to increased annual amortization costs for HDP (?17,186.24 per hectare) versus conventional methods (?14,476.53 per hectare). However, HDP demonstrates greater returns from intercropping (?47,964.00) compared to conventional methods (?33,461.00). The analysis shows that while HDP incurs higher costs for grafts, labor, and other inputs, it also offers potential benefits in terms of land utilization and profitability. The choice between HDP and conventional methods should weigh the higher costs against the potential for increased returns and more efficient land use.