Cost and return of cultivation of poplar in Saharanpur district, Uttar Pradesh (India)

The present study analyzes the cost and returns of poplar cultivation in Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh. Primary data were collected from selected poplar growers to evaluate the economic viability and profitability of poplar-based agroforestry systems. The study revealed that poplar cultivation requires substantial investment during the initial years due to expenses incurred o planting material, land preparation, irrigation, fertilizers, intercultural operations, and transportation. The total cost of poplar cultivation was estimated at Rs. 1,62,480 per hectare, of which variable costs constituted the major share, followed by fixed costs. Among variable costs, planting material, irrigation, and transportation emerged as the principal expenditure components. The average gross return obtained from poplar cultivation was estimated at Rs. 4,75,000 per hectare at the time of harvesting. Consequently, the net return was calculated at Rs. 3,12,520 per hectare, reflecting the high economic potential ofpoplar cultivation in the study area. The input-output ratio was found to be 1:2.92, indicating that every rupee invested in poplar cultivation generated a return of Rs. 2.92. The findings suggest that poplar cultivation is a highly profitable agroforestry enterprise and can significantly enhance farm income and livelihood security in Saharanpur district.