An Economic Analysis of Vellore GI Spiny Brinjal in Organic and Inorganic Vegetable Farming

This study investigates the economic analysis of Vellore GI Spiny Brinjal cultivated through both organic and inorganic farming methods in Vellore district, Tamil Nadu. Organic farming systems have gained popularity due to their sustainability benefits and resource conservation, which can reduce output costs by 10% to 30% compared to conventional farming. Vellore GI Spiny Brinjal, recognized for its unique characteristics and recent Geographical Indication (GI) tag, serves as a focal point for this analysis. The study collected primary data from 25 organic and 25 inorganic farmers, as well as from various market participants. Cost and return analyses revealed that the total cultivation cost per acre is Rs. 90,482 for organic and Rs. 77,322 for inorganic methods. Despite higher cultivation costs, organic farming proved more profitable with a Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) of 1.59 compared to 1.35 for inorganic farming. Marketing channel analysis showed that the primary distribution pathways involved wholesalers and retailers, with organic brinjal channels displaying higher efficiency. Price spread and marketing efficiency calculations indicated that Channel II was the most efficient for both farming methods due to fewer intermediaries and lower consumer prices. Overall, the study underscores the economic viability of organic farming for Vellore GI Spiny Brinjal, highlighting its potential for higher profitability and marketing efficiency.