Weed Management Practices on Crop Productivity and Economics in Dry-Direct Seeded Rice under Hill and Plateau Region of Eastern India

Abstract

In direct seeded rice, weeds are the major problems limiting the crop productivity. Sesbania with direct seeded rice (DSR) as well as seeding rates of rice affects the weed density by smothering effect and therefore, it can be a better weed management practice. Two year on farm trials were conducted at the Kusma, Boarijore Block and Bhaluka, Sundarpahadi block of Godda from 2020 and 2021 to assess the effect of weed management on yields and economics in DSR. The results revealed that significantly the lowest density of grasses, broad leaved weeds (BLWs), sedges, total weed density, total weed dry weight and the highest weed control efficiency were recorded with the treatment of DSR + Sesbania over DSR (pre-sowing irrigation followed by tillage and rice seeding) followed by first post-sowing irrigation at 15 DAS and the farmer’s practice. Weed management practice, DSR + Sesbania was found significantly higher grain yield, gross returns, net returns, B: C ratio, production efficiency and economic efficiency over to followed by first post sowing irrigation at 15 DAS and farmer’s practice. While the farmer’s practice was recorded higher weed index and lowest weed control efficiency. Thus, on the basis present study it is concluded that weed management practice i.e. DSR + Sesbania could be a better option to reduced the weed infestation as well as improves the productivity of DSR in rainfed agro-ecosystem of Jharkhand.