Performance evaluation and economic analysis of Bhut Jolokia (Capsicum chinense) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under polyhouse cultivation in NICRA-Adopted villages of Lakhimpur district, Assam

Vegetable cultivation in Assam, Northeast India faces significant climatic challenges including high temperatures, humidity, heavy rainfall, strong winds and frequent pest and disease outbreaks. A key constraint is the prolonged rainfall from April to October which delays planting and restricts early or off-season production. Consequently, harvests often coincide with peak market periods, leading to oversupply and reduced prices.To address this, protected cultivation using structures like polyhouses offers a promising solution by creating controlled growing environments. Under the National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) project, five low-cost polyhouses (each 100 m²) were established in NICRA-adopted villages of Lakhimpur district to assess their effectiveness. Results showed a significant yield improvement under polyhouse conditions. Bhut jolokia produced 3.23 kg/m², compared to 1.16 kg/m² in open fields. Tomato yield increased to 7.068 kg/m² under polyhouses versus 1.92 kg/m² in open cultivation. Economic analysis further showed that bhut jolokia generated an average gross income of Rs. 1, 53,905 and an average net profit of Rs.109961.11, with a high benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 5.15. Tomato cultivation earned Rs. 22627.89 in gross income and Rs. 5529.16 in net profit with a BCR of 1.56.