Comparative Economic Analysis of the Production of Different Rapeseed Varieties in Dang District, Nepal

The Rapeseed is an important oilseed crop in Nepal, contributing significantly to rural livelihoods. Despite its potential, limited studies have analyzed the comparative profitability of improved and local rapeseed varieties. This study was conducted in 2022 to analyze the profitability in the production of two different rapeseed varieties in Dang district. Ninety-five rapeseed growers from three rural municipalities and Tulsipur Sub Metropolitan were selected through stratified random sampling method. Primary data were collected through household surveys using semi-structured questionnaires, while secondary data were collected through different journals, articles, websites, publications and reports of PMAMP (Prime Minister Agriculture Modernization Project) and AKC (Agriculture Knowledge Centre). Two rapeseed varieties namely Unnati (improved variety) and Ghobi tori(local variety) were considered during this study. The average productivity was higher for Unnati (0.93 Mt/ha) than Ghobi tori (0.67 Mt/ha). The total cost of production for Unnati was NRs 57,577.07 per ha and that for Ghobi tori was NRs 59,208.66 per ha. Gross return and net profit per hectare were NRs 105,586.34 and NRs 47,989.25 for Unnati and NRs 75,098.61 and NRs 16,926.67 for Ghobi tori. The benefit cost ratio for Unnati was 1.83 whereas the benefit cost ratio for Ghobi tori was 1.29, which indicated that both varieties were profitable. Unavailability of timely inputs and limited irrigation facilities were the key problems in the production of rapeseeds in the study area.