Diversifying cropping systems with aromatic crops for better productivity and profitability in subtropical north Indian plains

Abstract

Diversifying agroecosystems with incorporation of suitable crops could deliver great results pertaining productivity, profitability and sustainability. In the study, we have exclusively focused on the improvement of agricultural income through integration of aromatic crops in the crop rotations. Data set of the research findings would help in providing information about aromatic and agricultural crops, their cultivation cost, economical indices, and profit earned by the farmers in access to diversified cropping systems. Maximum gross returns (357 × 103 INR or 5.56 × 103 USD), net returns (250 × 103 INR or 3.90 × 103 USD), per day return (2.6 × 103 INR or 41 USD), benefit cost ratio (10.52), and marginal benefit cost ratio (8.04) was found in T8 – (basil-pea-menthol mint) cropping system. Diversified cropping system with basil, pea and menthol mint is suitable combination of annual cropping sequence. This would aid sustaining higher yields and monetary returns to farmers.