Cost-benefit Ratio Research Articles

Effect of Row Orientation on Productivity Of Sugarcane With Potato as Intercrop

An experiment was carried out at the Regional Sugarcrop Research Station (RSRS) farm, Thakurgaon under the agro-ecological zone of Old Himalayan Piedmont Plain (AEZ-1) of Bangladesh, during 2016-2017 to 2017-2018 cropping seasons to evaluate the impact of row orientation on the productivity of sugarcane with potato as intercrop. Under the study eight treatments viz T1: Single row cane (SRC) only in north-south direction, T2: SRC + potato in North-South direction, T3: SRC only in east-west direction, T4: SRC + potato in east-west direction,T5: Paired row cane (PRC) only in North-South direction, T6: PRC + potato in north-south direction, T7: PRC only in east-west direction and T8: PRC + potato in east-west direction were tested following Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications Significant differences were found among the observed parameters except germination (%) of setts, number of internodes per stalk and unit stalk weight of sugarcane. The highest number of tiller and millable cane population, cane yield and brix reading were achieved from the treatment SRC + potato in the North-South direction. The highest intercrop yield, equivalent cane yield of intercrop, total adjusted yield and gross return were obtained from the treatment PRC + potato in north-south direction, but the highest net return and benefit cost ratio were obtained from the treatment SRC + potato in the North-South direction. Having the highest cane yield, net return and benefit cost ratio with less variable cost, sugarcane planting in a single row system with potato as intercrop in a North-South row direction could be considered the best package practice for successful sugarcane farming. Bangladesh Agron. J. 2024, 26(2): 7-15

Sustainability analysis of apple orchards: Integrating environmental and economic perspectives

The agricultural sector faces numerous challenges today, including the protection of biodiversity and the mitigation of environmental impact. Addressing these challenges require ensuring the stability of farmers' income, thus facilitating effective land management.The present study aims to evaluate the environmental and economic sustainability of apple orchards under two distinct systems (integrated versus organic) and a scab-resistant variety. The Life Cycle Assessment method (LCA) was employed to evaluate environmental impact, while financial and economic aspects were analysed using metrics such as Net Present Value (NPV), Equivalent Annual Value (EAV), Benefit-Cost Ratio (B/C) and Discounted Payback Period (DPP).Results analysis reveals that both inorganic fertilisation and pesticides usage have the greatest impacts in both integrated cultivation and scab-resistant orchards. In organic orchards, diesel usage emerges as a primary factor due to the substitution of chemical interventions with mechanical methods. For the same reason, labour constitutes 45 % of the organic production costs. Despite the lower environmental impact, organic treatments still contribute 22 % of the total production cost. Regarding the investment evaluation, the scab-resistant variety offers marginally lower costs than conventional varieties due to the reduction of required treatments; however, organic farming shows superior economic performance despite higher production costs, mainly attributed to higher market prices. This highlights the influence of market dynamics on business decisions in the apple sector, where farmers often have no direct control.

Assessment of land configuration techniques on in-situ soil moisture conservation and productivity of rainfed Bt. Cotton in semi-arid production systems

Rainfed agriculture is proving to be a significant contributor to cotton production. However, recent climate change characterizes a substantial threat to current rainfed agricultural production, and consequently to farmers’ livelihoods in semi-arid regions. Typical features of these areas are erratic rainfall to frequent dry spells that lead to frequent crop failure and lasting poverty. In-situ soil moisture conservation is an important climate resilience agricultural practice to enhance the productivity of crops in these regions including rainfed Bt cotton. It comprises agronomical land configuration techniques with several local modifications. The experiments were conducted in a field at Okkarai village (11o 22’ N latitude and 78o 53’ E longitudes), Thuraiyur Block, Tiruchirapallai District in the Northwestern Agro-climatic Zone of Tamil Nadu. It was undertaken during the Rabi season (North-East monsoon) of 2022 and 2023. The experiments were laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with 7 treatments with three replications. The treatments consist of different land configuration techniques viz., flat-bed, ridges and furrows, broad bed and furrows (BBF), raised bed, tied ridges, tied ridges (alternate rows) and tied broad beds (TBB). An analysis of pooled mean data of two years showed significant differences between the treatments. Among the land configuration techniques tested, tied ridges (alternate rows) registered the maximum soil moisture content during flowering and boll formation (90 DAS), boll development (120 DAS) and boll and fibre maturation (140 DAS) stages, and the increase was 34.4%, 31.8% and 15.74%, respectively over flat-bed method. Likewise, tied ridges (alternate rows) significantly enhanced the cotton growth characters viz., plant height (128.92 cm), leaf area index (4.52), dry matter production (5.19 t/ha), and yield attributes viz., number of squares (44.50/plant), number of bolls (43.73/plant), boll weight (4.76 g) and seed cotton yield (20.86 q/ha) and cost-benefit ratio (3.07). Tied ridges in alternative row served as low-cost micro catchment approach for trapping and holding water and its practice in semi-arid rainfed region has beneficial effects of reducing runoff and soil loss, increasing soil moisture and augment crop yield.

Demonstration of IPDM Module for the Management of Major Defoliating Insect Pests and Wilt Disease of Chickpea in Prakasam District Andhra Pradesh

Background: A front line demonstration (FLD) on integrated pest and disease management for management of major defoliating insect pests and wilt diseases in chickpea was conducted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Darsi, Prakasam District, Andhra Pradesh during 2020-21 and 2021-22. Methods: The field trials were conducted in Bhodanampadu and Abbayapalem villages of Prakasam District, Andhra Pradesh in an area of 4 hectares in 10 farmer’s fields during 2020-21 and 2021-22. Result: The results revealed that mean larval population of H. armigera and S. exigua/ 10 plants of two years were 1.4 and 1.87 in IPDM module over 8.23 and 4.12 larval population/10 plants during 2020-21 and 2021-22 respectively in farmers practice. Mean wilt disease incidence of two years were 7.5 per cent in IPDM module over 18 per cent in farmers practice. IPDM plot gave an average yield of 13.78 q/ha as compared to farmer’s practices i.e 11.25 q/ha. The per cent increase in yield over control was 16.8 and 31.4 during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively. The net returns were Rs. 44568, Rs. 24061 and Rs. 35675, Rs. 10875 in IPDM plot and farmers practice plot during 2020-21 and 2021-22 respectively. The average cost benefit ratio was 1:2.23 and 1:1.87 in IPDM and farmers practice plot, respectively.

Comparison of the Therapeutic Efficacy and Autophagy-Mediated Mechanisms of Action of Urine-Derived and Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in Osteoarthritis

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent and disabling disease that affects a significant proportion of the global population. Urine-derived stem cells (USCs) have shown great prospects in the treatment of OA, but there is no study that has compared them with traditional stem cells. Purpose: This study aimed to compare the therapeutic efficacy and mechanisms of USCs and adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) for OA treatment. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: We compared the biological properties of USCs and ADSCs using CCK-8, colony formation, EdU, adhesion, and apoptosis assays. We evaluated the protective effects of USCs and ADSCs on IL-1β–treated OA chondrocytes by chemical staining, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting. We assessed the effects of USCs and ADSCs on chondrocyte autophagy by transmission electron microscopy, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting. We also compared the therapeutic efficacy of intra-articular injections of USCs and ADSCs by gross, histological, micro–computed tomography, and immunohistochemical analyses in an OA rat model induced by anterior cruciate ligament transection. Results: USCs showed higher proliferation, colony formation, DNA synthesis, adhesion, and anti-apoptotic abilities than ADSCs. Both USCs and ADSCs increased the expression of cartilage-specific proteins and decreased the expression of matrix degradation–related proteins and inflammatory factors in OA chondrocytes. USCs had a greater advantage in suppressing MMP-13 and inflammatory factors than ADSCs. Both USCs and ADSCs enhanced autophagy in OA chondrocytes, with USCs being more effective than ADSCs. The autophagy inhibitor 3-MA reduced the enhanced autophagy and protective effects of USCs and ADSCs on OA chondrocytes. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to explore the efficacy of USCs in the treatment of knee OA and to compare them with ADSCs. Considering the superior properties of USCs in terms of noninvasive acquisition, a high cost-benefit ratio, and low ethical concerns, our study suggests that they may be a more promising therapeutic option than ADSCs for OA treatment under rigorous regulatory pathways. Clinical Relevance: USCs may be a superior cell source for stem cells to treat knee OA, and this study strengthens the evidence for the application of USCs.

Health and economic impacts of Vaccae vaccination incorporating active case finding in India and South Africa: a modelling study

IntroductionTuberculosis (TB) is a major global health issue, particularly, in India and South Africa. We aim to evaluate the potential of the new TB vaccine, Vaccae, to enhance TB control...

Effect of climate, crop, and management on soil phosphatase activity in croplands: A global investigation and relationships with crop yield

Agricultural and livestock production cover more than a third of the Earth's land surface and are crucial to food supply. Soil extracellular enzymes play an important role in the transformation of elements and compounds in soil, particularly acid (ACP) and alkaline (ALP) phosphatases (both, APases). These enzymes have a vital role in releasing phosphorus (P) from organic matter. However, the effect of climate variables and agro-ecosystem management on APase activity in croplands remains unclear, as does its eventual relationship with agricultural productivity. Therefore, we compiled a global database of APase activity in croplands (between 1977 and 2022) and we analysed 5876 observations across 474 papers to study climate variables, crop family, and management effects on ACP and ALP activity, and their relationship with yield. ACP activity is reduced by higher temperatures (p<0.001) and lower rainfall (p=0.002). There was an interaction effect of temperature and precipitation on ALP activity (p=0.046), with the negative effect of temperature being stronger with high precipitation, and low precipitation showing low ALP activity levels at any temperature. The crop family greatly influenced APase activity (p<0.001). Management practices affected ACP and ALP activity differently; ACP activity was positively influenced by organic fertilization combined with, crop rotation or irrigation by an average of 15.6 % and 30.7 %, respectively. ALP activity was mainly positively influenced by the interaction of two different factors: organic or inorganic-organic fertilization and reduced or zero tillage. Further understanding of soil enzyme mechanisms would aid global food security and yield. As ACP activity doubles from 100.0 to 200.0 mg pNP kg−1h−1, the crop yield increases by more than two-fold, an outcome not demonstrated in croplands until now. These results could enhance yield potential through the promotion of APase activity, and the consideration of climate variables and agro-ecosystem management, which could ultimately improve cost-benefit ratios for sustainable crop growth.

Effect of Foliar-applied Plant Growth Regulators on Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) to Regulate Growth and Yield Attributes

This investigation was conducted to obtain the effect of plant growth regulator on growth, yield and quality. The experiment utilized a randomized block design with three replications and nine treatments, including a control. The four different plant growth regulators (PGRs) used were Benzyl adenine (BA, 10 and 20 ppm), Brassinosteroid (BR, 0.5 and 1.0 ppm), Jasmonic acid (JA, 50 and 100 ppm) and Salicylic acid (SA, 50 and 100 ppm), applied as foliar sprays at 30 and 60 days after sowing (DAS). The experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2023-24 at the Vegetable Research Centre, Maharajpur, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. The investigation revealed that BR at 0.5 ppm resulted in the maximum plant height (103.67 cm). The highest number of primary (15.53) and secondary (26.50) branches at harvest was achieved with JA at 50 ppm. Phenological observations indicated that JA at 50 ppm led to the earliest 50% flowering at 36.67 days. For yield attributes, the highest number of umbels per plant (42.13) and umbellets per umbel (6.31) were found with JA at 50 ppm. BA at 20 ppm showed the maximum number of seeds per umbel (36.40), test weight (10.84 g), harvest index (9.92), and seed yield (13.65 q ha-1). Economically, BA at 20 ppm provided the highest net return (Rs. 170735.81), gross return (Rs. 232117.39), and benefit-cost ratio (2.78). Therefore, it can be concluded that foliar sprays of BR, JA, and BA are effective on improving phenological traits, yield attributes, and economic returns in coriander cultivation.

Comparative Study on Cost Analysis of Mechanical and Manual Transplanting of Rice

In Telangana, rice cultivation predominantly relies on traditional manual transplanting, which requires a significant labor force. However, the migration of agricultural laborers to urban areas in search of better wages has led to a shortage of workers, particularly during the critical transplanting season. To address this labor shortage and reduce cultivation costs, an efficient and cost-effective method of rice transplanting is essential, without compromising grain yield. To explore such a solution, Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Jammikunta, Karimnagar district, conducted 30 frontline demonstrations between 2018-19 and 2020-21, showcasing rice cultivation using a self-propelled, walk-behind six-row mechanical transplanter. The performance of this mechanical method was evaluated by collecting data on various growth parameters, including plant height, number of productive tillers per hill, panicle length, grains per panicle, and grain yield, and comparing it with traditional manual transplanting. Economic analysis revealed that the gross returns from mechanical transplanting were Rs. 135,956, compared to Rs. 128,629 for manual transplanting. Similarly, the net returns for mechanical and manual methods were Rs. 95,106 and Rs. 82,204, respectively. The benefit-cost ratio was found to be 3.32 for mechanical transplanting and 2.77 for manual transplanting. These findings indicate that mechanical rice transplanting offers a viable, cost-effective alternative, reducing labor requirements and drudgery while delivering higher yields.

Weeding force saving to improve profitability of cassava-legumes cropping systems in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo

Weeding is a common farming practice for optimal emergence, growth and maturity of crops. Smallholders in Central Africa use a traditional hoe for weed control. This is a hard and time-consuming activity. To address this bottleneck, a study was conducted at three sites, namely Walungu, Uvira, and Mulungu in South-Kivu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), over two growing seasons (September 2020 and February 2021). The purpose was to minimize the workload involved in weed control and boosting cassava yields via time-, labour, and energy-saving through adjusted weeding. Experiments were carried out as a split-plot design with three randomized blocks at multiple locations. Weed control was assessed for hand hoe, herbicide, and single-wheeled hoe (a weeding tool that combines manpower with improved weeding precision) in a cassava-legume intercropping system. Results show that the use of herbicide translated into about 6 times less energy use than a hand hoe, accounting for a ca. 4 times reduced weeding workload, and a reduction in weeding time up to 84%. The single-wheeled hoe use accounted for almost 61% reduction in weeding energy consumed, a reduction of 40% of the weeding time, and for about 38% of the weeding load saving. Although the three weeding methods gave statistically similar yields, it nevertheless turned out that herbicide treatment achieved the lowest cost-benefit ratio (CBR) (0.2), evoking its superiority in terms of profitability over both the hand hoe and the single-wheeled hoe. The study asserted that weed control is ‘moderately heavy’ and ‘light’ when involving the single-wheeled hoe and herbicide, respectively.

Economic evaluation of a wind and solar energy hybrid electric sightseeing boat in Laemsak, Krabi Province, Thailand

This research aims to analyze the economic evaluation of using hybrid wind and solar energy with a diesel-engine long-tail boat in the Laemsak tourism community, Krabi province, Thailand. It is a quantitative research study that collects and estimates the costs and expenses of developing hybrid wind turbine and solar panels with diesel-engine long-tail boat, including initial development costs, operational and maintenance costs, and depreciation costs, and also estimates the benefits of using the developed boat, such as revenue from boat services, fuel savings, and carbon offset savings. The economic feasibility is analyzed using the Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) method by calculating the Payback Period (PP), Net Present Value (NPV), Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR), and Internal Rate of Return (IRR), as well as analyzing the Sensitivity of some uncertain factors. The analysis of the project over a 10-year period indicates PP of approximately 3-4 years, positive NPV, BCR greater than 1.0, and IRR much higher than the Interest Rate. These figures demonstrate that the project is highly economically viable and suitable for investment.

Evaluation of Phyto Extracts for the Management of Alternaria Leaf Spot of Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.) Caused by Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissler

The present study was carried out to evaluate the effect of selected phyto-extracts for the management of alternaria leaf spot on black gram caused by Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissler, under field conditions. Three replications of black gram were planted in a randomized block design. At the research plot of the Central Research Field, Department of Plant Pathology, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj during Zaid season of 2023. Neem leaf extract, onion bulb extract, ginger rhizome extract, garlic clove extract, ashoka leaf extract and Mancozeb were applied as foliar spray. All the treatments were found significantly reduced the disease severity and increased the yield. Among all the treatments garlic clove extract @ 10% was recorded minimum disease intensity (25.62) and maximum yield (7.45 q/ha) and cost benefit ratio (1: 2.54), as compared to treated check mancozeb @ 0.2% and untreated check control.

Strategic management of nano-fertilizers for sustainable rice yield, grain quality, and soil health

Conventional fertilizers, although widely available, are relatively low in nutrient use efficiency and cause serious environmental concerns like eutrophication, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, nitrate poisoning, and soil pollution. With this in mind, a randomized block design (RBD) experiment was conducted in an experimental field taking 10 treatments and 3 replications to investigate the effects of integrated approaches of nano-formulated DAP fertilizer applications on rice growth, yield, and nutrient use efficiency over conventional approaches. The result revealed that plant height, panicle length, number of tillers hill−1, total number of grain panicle−1, and root length were maximum in T10 treatment (50% of the soil test recommended doses (STD) for N and P + seedling root dipping (SRD) with nano DAP at 5 mL L−1 + twice foliar sprays (FS) with nano DAP at 4 mL L−1 at 25 and 45 DAT (date after transplanting). The highest mean grain yields (4.12 and 4.05 Mg ha−1) and nutrient uptake were recorded in the T2 treatment (100% STD), but this was at par with T10 treatment. The highest benefit–cost ratio (2.26) was recorded in T10, which was 3.5% higher than T2. N and P agronomic use efficiency (AUE) ranged from 7.5% to 31.5% and 15% to 63%, and recovery efficiency (RE) ranged from 30% to 94.2% and 11.2% to 90.4%. The highest nutrient use efficiency was recorded with T10, followed by T9, and lowest in T4. Post-harvest soil pH and available N and P were significantly highest in T10. Soil MBC, MBN, MBP, urease, and phosphatase activity were found significantly higher in T2, followed by T10. The integrated application of 50% STD for N and P + SRD with nano DAP at 5 mL L-1 + twice FS with nano DAP at 4 mL L−1 at 25 and 45 DAT application can be a suitable substitute for conventional DAP and urea for rice in climate-smart agriculture as it possibly reduces environmental pollution while undisturbing crop yield over the 100% STD.

Effect of Organic Manure on Growth, Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) under Prayagraj Climatic Condition in Shade Net House

The present study entitled “Effect of organic manure on growth, yield and quality of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) under prayagraj climatic condition in shade net house” was carried out at the experiment field of the department of horticulture, Allahabad school of agriculture, SHUATS, Prayagraj during the year 2023-2024. Organic manures treatments include T0 Control T1 FYM (12t/ha.) T2 Poultry Manure (8t/ha.) T3 Vermi-compost (10t/ha.) T4 Coco-peat (1t/ha.) T5 50% FYM +50% Poultry Manure (6t/ha+4t/ha) T6 50% FYM + 50% Vermi-compost (6t/ha + 5t/ha.) T7 50% Poultry Manure + Vermi-compost (4t/ha+5t/ha) T8 25% FYM+ 25% Poultry Manure + 25% Coco-peat+ 25% Vermi-compost (3t/ha. + 2t/ha. + 0.25t/ha+ 2.5t/ha.) The effect of Organic Manure on growth and yield of Strawberry recorded maximum plant height, plant spread and number of leaves in T8 18.89 DAT, 23.78 DAT, 18.12 DAT respectively. Floral characters significantly took minimum days. The maximum fruit weight 25.31gram were recorded in T8 with highest yield 331.32 g/plant. Quality parameters includes maximum T.S.S (8.16) 0Brix along with minimum acidity percentage (0.55%). On the basis of our experimental findings it was concluded that the treatment T8: 25% FYM + 25% Poultry Manure + 25% Coco-peat + 25% Vermi-compost (3t/ha. + 2t/ha. + 0.25t/ha. + 2.5t/ha.) was found to be best in the terms of vegetative parameters, phenological parameters, flowering and fruiting parameters, yield and quality parameters. The benefit cost ratio was highest in the same treatment with (3.50).

Socio-economic advantages and climate adaptation in sustainable vs. conventional cotton: evidence from Pakistan

Two groups of cotton growers participated in this study; the first, referred as “conventional cotton producers” (CCPs), continues to use traditional techniques. The second group, known as sustainable cotton producers (SCPs), adheres to practices that are socially acceptable, economically feasible, and environment friendly. This study was designed to undertake a thorough socio-economic analysis of CCP and SCP in terms of cost of production, yield, and adaptations for climate change. The data were collected from a total of 275 farming households (138 SCPs and 137 CCPs) from two districts, namely, Bahawalpur and Rajanpur, Punjab, Pakistan. The data were analyzed using the benefit–cost ratio (BCR), paired sampled t-test, and log–log regression model in SPSS. The results of the study revealed that the cost of production for SCP was significantly less than CCP and the value of BCR for SCP is higher than CCP. The results of the study also revealed that the land preparation costs, irrigation costs, and fertilizer and pesticide costs decrease the cotton yield of CCP, while land area owned and picking costs showed no significant influence on the yield of CCP. On the other hand, all cost items except fertilizer cost have a positive impact on CCP’s cotton yield. The results also indicated that SCP farmers adopted more of adaptation practices for climate change than CCP. This study concluded that SCP has significant advantages over CCP. Therefore, it is recommended that the government should prioritize incentives for SCP adoption to enhance yield and environmental sustainability in cotton farming.

Pharmacoeconomic and clinical impact of pharmaceutical service in the intensive care unit: a systematic review

Clinical pharmacy is a fast-growing discipline in Europe, ensuring optimisation and a guarantee of safety in therapeutic management. Within a hospital the intensive care unit (ICU) typically admits the most...

Economic evaluation of willingness to pay for natural gas supply reliability in Korea

This study evaluates the economic value and supports infrastructure development of constructing a circular network to improve natural gas supply stability. This study applies a double-bounded dichotomous choice model and shows that households and commercial users are willing to pay an additional 2.97% and 1.19% of their monthly gas bill, respectively. This study also shows the impact of gas supply understanding and population density on willingness to pay (WTP) for both sectors. Scenario analysis is conducted to analyze the cost-benefit ratio for a hypothetical region, which may be useful in setting up new business plans.

Towards sustainable fruit production: Identifying challenges and optimization strategies

CONTEXTThe transition to sustainable fruit production is vital for global sustainability and agricultural development. However, implementing these insights into practice faces significant challenges. OBJECTIVESPomelo (Citrus maxima), a prominent citrus species in tropical and subtropical regions, has been cultivated to enhance farmer profitability but increasing yields often comes at the cost of environmental degradation. This study uses pomelo as a case study to assess key factors influencing pomelo production and establish optimal practices that meet consumption-based food while co-benefits for environmental and economic sustainability. METHODSA comprehensive study was conducted by combining 1155 farm surveys (from 2010, 2018, and 2022) with 31 field experiments. Life cycle assessment (LCA), classification and regression tree (CART) analysis, and scenario analysis were employed to develop pathways for sustainable pomelo production in Pinghe County, Fujian Province, China. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONSResults show no significant differences in pomelo yield across the three years; however, pomelo production in 2022 demonstrated a 60 %–67 % lower in environmental footprints and a 64 %–76 % higher benefit-cost ratio (BCR) compared to 2010 and 2018. Tree age was identified as a critical factor influencing pomelo yield, with optimal yields observed in trees older than 12.5 years. The rate of phosphorus fertilizer application was a key determinant of the phosphorus footprint (PF), which was positively correlated with phosphorus fertilizer rates. Similarly, nitrogen fertilizer application significantly impacted both carbon and nitrogen footprints (CF and NF) as well as the BCR. CF and NF increased with higher nitrogen fertilizer rates, while BCR exhibited a negative correlation with nitrogen fertilizer application. Implementing Science and Technology Backyards (STB) followed by farmer training of slightly more than pomelo nutrient requirements practice (SNRP) or coordinate management by farmers and researchers of matching pomelo nutrients requirement practice (MNRP) had 50 %–91 % lower environmental footprints per ton of pomelo produced and 15 %–44 % higher BCR compared to current farming practices (FP) via reducing 46 %–77 % N, 49 %–92 % P2O5, and 42 %–73 % K2O per hectare. Moreover, adopting 100 % MNRP in pomelo production, along with sustainable fertilizer practices and the implementation of innovative fertilizers, could reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (0.76 Tg), reactive nitrogen (Nr) emissions (8.76 Gg), phosphorus (P) losses (0.84 Gg), and augment net ecosystem economic benefits (NEEB) (0.94 billion CNY) at the county scale. SIGNIFICANCEOur study provides evidence-based strategies for achieving sustainable pomelo production through multi-stakeholder collaboration of STB, government, enterprises, and smallholders.

Sustainable practices for cotton production in Bangladesh: economic and environmental perspectives

Cotton is a major cash crop in the agriculture of Bangladesh, primarily fueling its substantial textile industry. Although local production is limited, cotton has the potential to bolster the country’s economic growth by supporting local economies and improving agricultural sustainability. An in-depth sustainability assessment of this integral crop is essential to ensure its long-term economic and environmental viability. This study aims to evaluate the sustainability of cotton production in Bangladesh and suggest strategic enhancements and policy measures to improve its environmental, economic, and social aspects. Data were collected from 60 farmers in two villages of Jashore district using a simple random sampling technique. A combination of descriptive, mathematical and statistical techniques was used to analyze the data. The findings highlighted a profitable benefit–cost ratio of 1.88 for cotton production. Positive impacts on cotton profitability were notably linked to the costs of labor, land preparation, and insecticides and pesticides. Despite this, 60% of farmers faced substantial challenges, including financial barriers, limited access to modern agricultural technologies, and a lack of training in sustainable practices. Economic constraints were a major barrier, although the environmental benefits of sustainable practices were widely acknowledged. To address these issues, the study recommends optimizing inputs like labor, land preparation, and pest management, and advocates for policy actions such as subsidies, tax incentives, and enhanced training programs to support the widespread adoption of sustainable practices across Bangladesh.

Improving Okra Production by Poultry Manure Application in Highland Acid Oxisols of Dschang, Western Cameroon

Problem Statement: Low yields of crops in Sub-saharan Africa are often associated with low soil fertility. However, due to high cost and negative environmental impact of chemical fertilizers, using cheap and readily available organic manures such as poultry manure (PM) has become indispensable. Aim: To evaluate the effect of different rates of PM on soil fertility and the performance of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) in the Cameroon Western Highlands. Methodology: The study was carried out in the field and in the laboratory. The experimental plot (191.25 m2) in the field was designed in a randomized complete block design with six treatments and three replications: 0 t ha-1 of PM (To), 3 t ha-1 of PM (T1), 6 t ha-1 of PM (T2), 9 t ha-1 of PM (T3), 12 t ha-1 of PM (T4), and 250 kg of NPK 12-14-19 (T5). Soil samples were analyzed in the laboratory by standard procedures before and after treatment. Results: Treatment T0 had a clay loam texture, acidic pH (5.4), relatively high organic carbon content (1.92%), moderate total nitrogen (0.33%) and moderate available phosphorus (36.07 mg kg-1). The exchangeable complex revealed high K+ (1.02 cmol kg-1), low Ca2+ (2.60 cmol kg-1) and Mg2+ (1.04 cmol kg-1), average Na+ (0.33 cmol kg-1). After treatment, soil pHH2O, available phosphorus and exchangeable K, Ca, and Mg increased after harvest whereas Na decreased for all the treatments. The effect of the treatments on growth parameters was such that T3&gt;T4&gt;T1&gt;T5&gt;T2&gt;T0. The global trend of yield parameters was such that T3&gt;T4&gt;T5&gt;T1&gt;T0&gt;T2. Economically, treatments T3, T4, and T5 were profitable and recommendable for popularization, with a benefit-to-cost-ratio (BCR) &gt;2. The most economically viable treatment was T3 with a profit rate (PR) of 601.66% and a BCR value of 7.02, while T2 was the least economically viable treatment with a negative PR of -32.14% and a BCR of -33.67. Conclusion: Farmers in Western highlands can produce okra profitably and sustainably using PM at a rate of 9 tha-1f.