Directorate of Wheat Research, Karnal, Haryana 132 001

Abstract

A field study with eight crop sequences was conducted at Karnal during 2001 -06 to diversify or intensify the rice (Oryza sativa L.) - wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system and to select suitable cropping system based on productivity and profitability. Combined analysis of the data of 6 years showed that rice - vegetable pea - wheat - greengram sequence produced 27.91 % higher wheat equivalent yield than rice - wheat system. Diversification or intensification of rice - wheat system, once in 3 years, improved the net returns when all the crops (except rice) were grown on raised-bed in a system approach. Inclusion of oilseed or pulses in rice - wheat system once in 3 years or intensification by growing vegetable pea in between rice and wheat or greengram after wheat showed higher net returns and sustainable value index (SVI) compared with rice - wheat system. Maximum SVI (0.92) and net returns (Rs 38.6 x 1 O3 Ihdyear) were recorded in rice - Indian mustard - greengram - rice - wheat - greengram - rice - wheat - greengram crop sequence. Benefit : cost ratio (1.74) and profitability (Rs 124lhdday) were highest in pigeon pea - wheat - rice - wheat - rice - wheat crop sequence. Growing of berseem in the rotation reduced the weed population in the subsequent wheat cycle. After 6 years, rice - vegetable pea - wheat - greengram, rice - In- dian mustard - greengram - rice - - - - greengram and pigeonpea - wheat - rice - wheat greengram - rice wheat wheat - rice - wheat showed 37.5, 25.0 and 20.0% increase, respectively in organic C content (0-1 5 cm) than con- tinuous rice-wheat system.