Rabi groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) yield in different agro-ecologies of eastern India: Factors analyses

Abstract

Improving edible oilseed production is a need of the hour to ensure food security in India. Numerous efforts were made to fasten these efforts, including implementation of Cluster Frontline Demonstration (CFLDs). In this initiative, the groundnut crop has also been promoted in various parts of India in the form of CFLD under different agro-ecological zones of eastern India through the lead taken up by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, the Farm Science Centre (KVK) of Odisha and West Bengal. The assessment aimed at underlying the relative importance of the factors affecting the groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) yield in this region. A study was carried out in the winter (rabi) season 2018–22, revealed that the application of improved technologies, namely seed treatment, use of biofertilizers, Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), Integrated Pest Management (IPM), irrigation etc. increased groundnut yield to the tune of 46.83%. The benefit-cost ratio of demonstrated plot was much higher (2.04) against the traditional practices (1.63). Further, seed treatment, application of bio-fertilizer, and Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) were the major determinants behind enhancement of groundnut yield. These critical factors can significantly contribute towards augmenting the yield of groundnut followed by enhancing the profitability of farmers, besides addressing the agroecological challenges in different agro-ecological zones of eastern India.