Village and Development

Village and Development

Economic Evaluation of Yield and Agronomic Characteristics of Medicinal Plants in Rural Areas of Sistan

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
M. Mohammadghasemi 1
A. Ghasemi 2
M. palouj 3
1 Assistant Professor of Economic, Social and Extension Research Department, Sistan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center (AREEO), Zabol, Iran.
2 Assistant Professor of Agronomy and Horticulture Research Department, Sistan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center (AREEO), Zabol, Iran.
3 Associate Professor, Agricultural Planning, Economics and Rural Development Research Institute (APERDRI), Tehran, Iran.
10.30490/rvt.2024.357568.1441
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Given the limited water resources, low rainfall, and recent droughts in the Sistan region, it is essential to promote the cultivation of economically viable, low-water plants and enhance conversion industries to boost farmers' income and ensure sustainability. The rich diversity of medicinal and ornamental plant species in Sistan and Baluchistan presents investment opportunities for knowledge-based companies. Private sector investment in the region's 1,200 plant species can drive economic growth. This study aims to economically evaluate the performance and agronomic characteristics of medicinal plants in rural areas of Sistan.
Materials and Methods
Data were collected from research projects conducted at the Center for Research and Education of Agriculture and Natural Resources in Sistan in the villages of Deh Boland and Zahek. Engineering economy techniques, net present value criteria, and benefit-cost ratio analysis were used for data analysis. The gray method of multi-indicator decision-making was applied to prioritize medicinal plants based on user perspectives.
Results and Discussion
 The benefit-to-cost ratios for Sfarzah, Syahdane, and Zanyan medicinal plants were found to be 5.37, 4.7, and 4.6, respectively, indicating their economic viability and potential for crop diversity and income generation. Sfarze emerged as the most economical product with a ratio of 5.37. User prioritization of medicinal plants favored options that enhance productivity, reduce water consumption, increase income, life expectancy, village residency, and employment. With adequate water supply, marketing, and processing infrastructure, medicinal plants can significantly impact the region's economy through employment creation and related industries.
Conclusions
Cultivating medicinal plants in Sistan is economically viable and can improve crop diversity and income. Developing a practical plan for medicinal plants in the region can lead to substantial economic improvements. Recommendations include extension planning for farmer training and the construction of processing units in the region.
Keywords
Low Water Crops
Village
Engineering Economics
Medicinal Plants

Subjects

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