Income and employment patterns in the production and marketing of cherry pepper (Capsicum annum) in hill zone of West Bengal

This study examines the income and employment patterns associated with the cultivation and marketing of Cherry Pepper (Capsicum annuum), locally known as Dalle Khursani, in the hill zones of West Bengal, specifically in the Gorubathan Block of Kalimpong and the Rangli-Rangliot Block of Darjeeling district. Based on primary data collected through structured interviews with 100 sample farmers using a multistage sampling technique, the study evaluates income metrics such as gross income, net income, returns to management, and returns per rupee (RPR), along with human labor utilization patterns. Results indicate that marginal and small-scale farmers achieved higher profitability and labor efficiency compared to semi-medium farms, with marginal farms in Kalimpong showing the highest gross income (₹503,579.23) and small farms in Darjeeling recording the highest net income (₹294,441.76) and returns to management (₹275,202.81). Labor use was also intensive, with an average of 250.52 and 297.15 mandays per farm in Kalimpong and Darjeeling, respectively. The study highlights the economic potential of Cherry Pepper cultivation as a viable livelihood option in the hill regions and recommends enhanced production practices, financial support, and stronger market linkages to improve farmer income and employment generation in these areas.