Higher Net Returns Research Articles

Optimizing Irrigation Regimes for Peanuts in Water-Scarce Regions: A Case Study in Western Liaoning, China

Scientific irrigation scheduling is crucial for conserving agricultural water resources, as excessive irrigation diminishes crop yield and imprecise water application can equally reduce water use efficiency (WUE). In Western Liaoning Province, China, where water scarcity is critical, traditional irrigation regimes are commonly used for peanut cultivation, with local farmers applying water without considering actual crop water demands, thereby reducing water efficiency and yield. In this study, field experiments on peanuts were conducted from May to October during 2021 and 2022 in Heishan County, Western Liaoning Province, China. Four irrigation regime treatments for micro-sprinkler irrigation, with different lower limits of soil water content, were applied: T1 (55% field capacity), T2 (65% field capacity), T3 (75% field capacity), and T4 (85% field capacity). The plant height, stem thickness, root length, dry matter weight, yield, WUE, and net return were measured. Different irrigation regimes had significant effects on peanut growth. The yield was highest in the T3 treatment in 2021 at 5574 kg·hm−2. Moderate irrigation could improve the yield, but it was difficult to simultaneously achieve a high WUE. The WUE of the T3 treatment was 5% lower than that of the T2 treatment in 2022, where the WUE was the highest at 1.62 kg·m−3. The highest net return was observed in the T3 treatment at 27,307 yuan·hm−2. The T3 treatment, with the highest similarity degree of 0.83 as determined with the entropy value and TOPSIS method, was evaluated as the optimal irrigation regime. This regime not only exhibited a favorable balance of water use efficiency and yield but also maximized economic benefits, making it a recommendable practice for local peanut irrigation.

Effect of pre- and post-emergence herbicides on weeds, productivity andprofitability of maize

A field experiment was conducted to find out the best combinations of pre- and post-emergence herbicides in maize for effective weed control and higher productivity at ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research, Ludhiana in 2021 and 2022. Results indicated that pre (PE)- and post-emergence (PoE) herbicide application, reduced the narrow-leaved weeds (NLW) and broad-leaved weeds (BLW) density from 62.41–91.46% and 55.53–82.11% respectively, compared to the weedy check. Among the PE, pyroxasulfone performed better than atrazine owing to selectivity towards maize with better weed control during both years. The density of Cyperus spp. was significantly reduced with halosulfuron PoE along with atrazine or pyroxasulfone PE over the years. A higher weed control efficiency (WCE) was found with pyroxasulfone followed by (fb) topramezone (90.4), while pyroxasulfone fb tembotrione (84.1) and atrazine fb topramezone (84.8) had similar WCE. Pyroxasulfone fb topramezone gave a 46.97% increase in grain yield over a weedy check. Pyroxasulfone fb topramezone and pyroxasulfone fb tembotrione resulted in higher net returns and B:C. Therefore, the application of pyroxasulfone as PE fb tembotrione as PoE or pyroxasulfone as PE fb topramezone as PoE may be recommended for better weed control and higher maize grain yield in NWPZ of India.

Effect of pre- and post-emergence herbicides on weeds, productivity andprofitability of maize

A field experiment was conducted to find out the best combinations of pre- and post-emergence herbicides in maize for effective weed control and higher productivity at ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research, Ludhiana in 2021 and 2022. Results indicated that pre (PE)- and post-emergence (PoE) herbicide application, reduced the narrow-leaved weeds (NLW) and broad-leaved weeds (BLW) density from 62.41–91.46% and 55.53–82.11% respectively, compared to the weedy check. Among the PE, pyroxasulfone performed better than atrazine owing to selectivity towards maize with better weed control during both years. The density of Cyperus spp. was significantly reduced with halosulfuron PoE along with atrazine or pyroxasulfone PE over the years. A higher weed control efficiency (WCE) was found with pyroxasulfone followed by (fb) topramezone (90.4), while pyroxasulfone fb tembotrione (84.1) and atrazine fb topramezone (84.8) had similar WCE. Pyroxasulfone fb topramezone gave a 46.97% increase in grain yield over a weedy check. Pyroxasulfone fb topramezone and pyroxasulfone fb tembotrione resulted in higher net returns and B:C. Therefore, the application of pyroxasulfone as PE fb tembotrione as PoE or pyroxasulfone as PE fb topramezone as PoE may be recommended for better weed control and higher maize grain yield in NWPZ of India.

Effect of Various Mulching Materials on Yield and Quality of Okra (Abelmoschus Esculentus) in Mahottari, Nepal

An experiment was conducted from April to July 2023 in the Mahottari district of Nepal to evaluate the influence of various mulching materials on the yield and quality of okra, specifically the Arka Anamika variety. The study employed a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications and included five treatment variations: T1 (Control), T2 (Black plastic), T3 (Silver plastic), T4 (Rice straw), and T5 (Sawdust). The findings revealed that the type of mulch significantly affected all growth and yield parameters. Among all treatments, black plastic mulch yielded the highest seed germination rate at 89.01%, while the control plot had the lowest rate at 68.00%. At 35, 50, and 65 days after sowing (DAS), plants in black and silver plastic mulch plots were significantly taller than those in other treatments. Black plastic mulch also enhanced leaf number, promoted earlier flowering, and produced higher yields compared to bare soil, with silver plastic mulch being the next most effective. Crops grown with plastic mulch exhibited superior vegetative growth and yield attributes compared to those with organic mulches. The highest productivity was recorded in the black plastic mulch treatment (30.00 Mt/ha), followed by silver plastic mulch (27.00 Mt/ha). Moreover, black plastic mulch resulted in the highest net return and benefit-cost ratio (3.23), while the control plot had the lowest (1.8). Consequently, the use of plastic mulch, particularly black plastic mulch, is recommended to enhance vegetable production in the research area. Int. J. Appl. Sci. Biotechnol. Vol 12(4): 207-114.

Influence of Organic Nutrient on Growth Pattern, Flowering and Biochemical Profiling in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.] Var. Kashi Ganga

The present investigation entitled Influence of Organic Nutrient on Growth Pattern, Flowering and Biochemical Profiling in Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria)(Mol.)Standl.)Var. Kashi Ganga" was carried out with title at Organic Research Farm (ORF), Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Bundelkhand University, Karguanji, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh during the Kharif-2022 with a view to identify the effects of different combinations of organic nutrition and its role in growth, yield and quality of Bottle gourd variety Kashi Ganga. The experiment was laid in Randomized block design with 8 treatments and 3 replications. Based on above experimental finding it may be concluded that the treatment T7 (33% Farmyard Manure + 33% Poultry Manure + 33% Vermicompost) was found to be best in the terms of morphological characters viz., Vine length (3.33m), number of branches (5.30), days to male flowering (34.76 days), days to female flowering (44.17 days) and days to first fruit picking (75.92 days) yield and quality of Bottle gourd. While the highest net return was found in the T7 and the highest B:C ratio was found in the same with 6.10.

Economic Impact of Biotech and Nanotech Approaches in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Cultivation

Background: Chickpea cultivation plays a vital role in India's agricultural economy, yet it faces challenges like low yields, high input costs, and environmental concerns. Emerging biotechnological and nanotechnological approaches offer potential solutions to enhance productivity and sustainability in legume cultivation. This study evaluates the economic and environmental impacts of these technologies in comparison to conventional farming methods. Methods: A cost-benefit analysis was conducted for chickpea cultivation using both conventional and biotech/nanotech methods across key input categories. A regression model was developed to assess the impact of factors like farm size, irrigation access, and labour costs on profitability. Additionally, a scenario analysis was performed to project economic and environmental outcomes under varying levels of technology adoption. Results: Biotech/nanotech methods demonstrated a significant yield increase of 33% (1.6 tons/hectare vs. 1.2 tons/hectare), resulting in a 60% higher net return (₹48,800 vs. ₹30,500 per hectare). The cost-benefit ratio (CBR) improved from 2.03 (conventional) to 2.56 (biotech/nanotech). Environmental savings amounted to ₹1,800 per hectare through reduced pesticide and water usage. Scenario analysis showed that high adoption rates (90%) could lead to additional revenue of ₹17,000 per hectare and environmental savings of ₹16,200. These results indicate that biotech and nanotech approaches can significantly improve the economic and environmental sustainability of chickpea farming in India.

Effect of Deficit Irrigation and Mulch Application on Onion (<i>Allium cepa L</i>.) Bulb Yield and Water Productivity Under Drip Irrigation at Ambo, West Shoa, Ethiopia

Drip irrigation, combined with mulch and deficit water application, can significantly improve the water efficiency of irrigated agriculture. Study at Ambo Agricultural Research Center during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 irrigation seasons aimed to determine the most suitable deficit levels and mulch for drip-irrigated onion. The experiment used a randomized complete block design with two factors: irrigation levels (at 55%, 70%, 85%, and 100% of the Evapotranspiration of the crop) and mulch types (un-mulched, plastic, and straw mulch), resulting in a total of twelve treatment combinations replicated three times. The results showed that irrigation levels and mulch significantly affect bulb yield, water productivity, and yield-attributing parameters. Applying 100% ETc level and straw mulch resulted in the highest yields of 39450 kg/ha and 41038 kg/ha, respectively. On the other hand, the lowest yields were obtained with 55% ETc levels and un-mulched treatments, with respective values of 30913 kg/ha and 33969 kg/ha. Water productivity was also higher for irrigation levels at 55% and 70% ETc compared to 85% and 100% ETc, with values of 10.1 kg/m<sup>3</sup> and 9.7 kg/m<sup>3</sup>, respectively. Additionally, straw mulch application resulted in significantly higher water productivity. Economic analysis indicated that straw mulch had a higher net return with 369% MRR (Marginal Rate of Return) and a benefit-cost ratio of 32.8, while applying a 70% ETc level resulted in a 125% MRR. Based on the results, 70% ETc level with straw mulch for onion production is recommended for the study area, considering bulb yield, water productivity, and economic viability.

Enhancing the use of phosphate rock through microbially-mediated compost transformation to improve agronomic and economic profitability in Sub-Saharan Africa

Soil degradation and limited access to chemical fertilizers partly explain the persistently low crop yields in Sub-Saharan Africa. To provide local farmers with alternative fertilizer options, this study examined the impact of locally sourced fertilizers on sorghum productivity and soil health. Treatments were set up in a completely randomized block design with five replications each. These treatments included Burkina phosphate rock (BPR), calcined BPR (Cal-BPR), triple super phosphate (TSP), four types of phosphocomposts, and an unfertilized phosphate control (Control). The phospho-composts, prepared during 4 months in advance, were as follows: Comp-1 (sorghum straw + BPR + sorghum rhizosphere soil and roots), Comp-2 (sorghum straw + Cal-BPR + sorghum rhizosphere soil and roots), Comp-3 (sorghum straw + BPR + chicken manure), and Comp-4 (sorghum straw + Cal-BPR + chicken manure). They were applied at a rate of 2.5 t ha−1 at sowing, alongside BPR, Cal-BPR, and TSP that provided 23 kg P2O5 ha−1. Urea and potassium chloride were added 15 days after sowing (DAS) to all treatments to standardize nitrogen and potassium levels to 37 kg N ha−1 and 14 kg K2O ha−1. Soil properties were evaluated using the samples collected at 42, 70, and 120 DAS. Rhizosphere soil showed higher bacterial and fungal abundance than bulk soil, particularly in compost treatments. Comp-4 notably improved soil properties, including increased phosphorus-cycling microbial genes, available phosphorus, cation exchange capacity, and pH, and it produced the highest sorghum grain yield. However, Comp-3 offered superior economic benefits, with higher net returns from grain sales. Overall, phosphocomposts improve soil health and boost sorghum yield in Sub-Saharan Africa. Calcined BPR-chicken manure-enriched compost may be used to increase crop yields. However, the study shows that BPR-chicken manure-enriched compost provides a more cost-effective solution for soil revitalization and sustainable food production in infertile soils in the region.

Drone-assisted herbicide optimization for energy efficiency, weed control and economics in transplanted rice (Oryza sativa)

The experiment was conducted during summer and rainy (kharif) seasons of 2021 and 2022 at Agricultural Research Station (Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu), Bhavanisagar, Tamil Nadu to evaluate the efficiency, economics and energetics of drone-based herbicide spray (fluid) application in transplanted rice (Oryza sativa L.). During the experiment the application of pre-emergence and post-emergence herbicides was done using drone and knapsack sprayer to assess the weed control efficiency (WCE). Treatments included 3 herbicide combinations, viz. pyrazosulfuron ethyl as pre-emergence (PE); pyrazosulfuron ethyl as pre-emergence (PE) fb bispyribac sodium as PoE; and pyrazosulfuron ethyl as PE fb metsulfuron methyl + chlorimuron ethyl as PoE; and 4 spray fluids applied using drone and knapsack sprayer (25, 37.5, 75 and 500 litre/ha). Weed free and unweeded check plot were used as reference for calculating WCE. Application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl fb bispyribac sodium using knapsack sprayer reduced weed density from 77.74–86.45% and weed dry weight from 89.60–91.40% over unweeded plot. Moreover, it was found on par with drone application of 37.5 litre/ha using herbicides during both the seasons. Interaction effect between herbicides and drone spray fluids was found to be non-significant. Pyrazosulfuron ethyl fb bispyribac sodium application through knapsack sprayer (500 litre/ha) and drone (37.5 litre/ha) produced higher grain yield and straw yield. Higher net return, benefit: cost ratio (2.49 and 2.40), energy-use efficiency (13.44 and 13.40 MJ) and energy productivity (0.414 and 0.416 kg/MJ) were noticed with drone application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl fb bispyribac sodium using 37.5 litre/ha spray fluid in both the seasons. From the experiment, drone application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl fb bispyribac sodium with spray volume of 37.5 litre/ha was found as an effective strategy to manage weeds in transplanted rice and more advantageous in terms of energy-use efficiency and profitability.

Impact of Levels of Nutrient Management on Economics of Soybean-onion and Soybean-potato Cropping System

Background: Nutrient management and cropping sequence are two important factors which affect productivity and profitability of crop. Profitability is one the important part of the successful crop production. Soybean fixes atmospheric nitrogen in soil and partially fulfills the nitrogen requirement of succeeding crops. There is a need for a suitable substitute crop or cropping systems after soybean to improve the soil fertility and productivity to maximize the profitability. The plains of Maharashtra are well suited for onion and potato cultivation. There is scope for increasing the area, production and productivity of onion and potato crop. Majority of farmers in Maharashtra following soybean-wheat and soybean-chickpea crop sequence while in present investigation soybean is grown in sequence with vegetable crop such as onion and potato which could help to increase profitability through higher net return and B: C ratio. Methods: The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications. Six combinations of two crop sequences (soybean-onion and soybean-potato) and three levels of nutrient management viz., 50% RDF+FYM 5 t ha-1+ biofertilizer (N1), 75 % RDF+ FYM 5 t ha-1+ biofertilizer (N2) and 100 % RDF+ FYM 5 t ha-1+ biofertilizer (N3) were the main plot treatments in kharif season replicated three times in randomized block design. During rabi season each main plot treatment of nutrient management level was split into three sub plot treatments with three levels of recommended dose of fertilizer viz., 75% RDF (F1), 100% RDF (F2) and 125% RDF (F3) to rabi season crops resulting in eighteen treatment combinations replicated three times in split plot design. The data pertaining to growth characteristics, yield characteristics, economics of soybean (kharif) and onion or potato (rabi) was collected at regular interval in 2017-18, 2018-19 and 2019-20 at Agronomy Farm, Dr. PDKV, Akola which was analyzed statistically in SPD (split plot design). Result: Soybean-onion crop sequence registered higher profitability in terms of GMR, NMR and B: C in comparison with soybean - potato crop sequence. Soybean crop supplied with 100% RDN+ 5 t FYM ha-1 + Biofertilizer (Rhizobium japonicum+ PSB+ Tricoderma viridi) recorded highest GMR, NMR and B:C ratio over lower levels of treatments in all year experimentation. Rabi crops treated with 125% RDF recorded GMR, NMR and B:C ratio over lower levels of treatments in all years of experimentation.

Assessing the Zinc, Boron and Rhizobium Inoculation on Yield and Economics of Kharif Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.)

The present experiment was carried out during kharif season of 2021 and 2022 at Instructional farm, Kamla Nehru Institute of Physical and Social Sciences Sultanpur, U.P. India. Four levels of zinc (0, 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5 Kg Zn ha-1), three levels of boron (0, 0.5 and 1.0 Kg B ha-1) and two levels of rhizobium i.e. Uninoculated (Control) and inoculated. A split-split plot design with three replications was used. Zinc levels were allocated to the main plots, boron levels in the sub-plot, while Rhizobium inoculation in the sub-sub plot. Results revealed that dry weight and seed and stover yield was observed that Rhizobium inoculation with application of zinc 7.5 kg ha-1 and Application of boron 1.0 kg ha-1. Obtaining seed yield from Rhizobium inoculation (8.53 and 8.71 q/ha-1) with application of zinc (8.53 and 8.79 q/ha-1) and Application of boron (8.45 and 8.70 q/ha-1). The highest net return (Rs. 58211.0 and 65488.50 ha-1) and benefit cost ratio (1.75 and 1.97) were obtained with 7.5kg Zn ha-1 + 1 kg B ha-1 + seed inoculation with rhizobium. It could be recommended for cultivation of mungbean.

Seed Yield, Seed Attributes and Economics of Alfalfa Seed Production as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management During kharif Season under Southern Dry Zone of Karnataka, India

The field experiment was carried out at the farm field of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Konehalli, Tiptur taluk, Tumkuru, Karnataka during Kharif season of 2017-18 to examine the effect of integrated nutrient management on seed yield, seed attributes and net benefit of alfalfa. The experiment was laid out Randomized complete block design (RCBD) comprising nine treatments viz T1 : RDF (25:50:25 kg NPK/ha + 10 t/ha FYM); T2 : 75% RDF + 25% N through FYM; T3 :75% RDF + 25% N through Vermicompost; T4 :75% RDF + 25% N through Poultry manure; T5 : 50% RDF + 25% N through FYM + Rhizobium + PSB+VAM ; T6 :50% RDF + 25% N through Vermicompost+ Rhizobium + PSB+VAM; T7 :50% RDF + 25% N through Poultry manure+ Rhizobium + PSB+VAM ;T8 : RDF + Rhizobium + PSB+VAM ;T9 : 10 t/ha FYM + 100% N through FYM and replicated four times. The results of experiments revealed that the plants supplied with of 50 % RDF + 25 % N through vermicompost + Rhizobium + PSB + VAM shown highest fresh herb yield at first harvest (160.65 q/ha), herb yield after harvest of seeds (187.50q/ha), 50% flowering (35.00 days), pod initiation (48.50days), pod maturation (73.05 days), while, lower fresh herb yield, pod initiation, pod maturation were recorded when 10 t/ha FYM + 100 % N through FYM was applied. The maximum pod (56.78 %), number of pods (228.75/plant), pod yield (19.90/plant), pod length (6.25 mm), pod weight (87.61 mg), seed set (56.50 %), number of seeds (5.50/pod), test weight (3.33g), seed yield per hectare (223.38kg/ha) and highest net return per hectare were recorded with 50 % RDF + 25 % N through vermicompost + Rhizobium + PSB + VAM. while, poor performance with regard to these parameter were recorded with application of 10 t/ha FYM + 100 % N through FYM. Therefore, application of 50 % RDF + 25 % N through vermicompost + Rhizobium + PSB + VAMmay be recommended for commercial seed productionin Alfalfa during kharif season under southern dry zone of Karnataka.

Enhancing Productivity of Chickpea Through Cluster Front Line Demonstration in Jaipur District of Rajasthan

Background: Chickpea is the premier pulse crop widely grown and consumed in India. Chickpea is an important pulse crop during winter season in Rajasthan. It also plays an important role in sustainable agriculture by improving the soil health through biological nitrogen fixation and by enhancing the soil microbial populations thus it is a good source of farmer livelihood and soil security. Methods: Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chomu (Tankarda) Jaipur-1 conducted cluster frontline demonstrations on chickpea at farmers' field during winter season of 2019-20 and 2020-21. A total 100 demonstrations were conducted with an area of 40 hectare. A survey to get information on chickpea cultivation practices was undertaken before conducting the demonstrations. Selection of farmers and improved technology for demonstrations were done on the basis of survey information. Result: The results of the cluster frontline demonstrations observed that average yield of chickpea under demonstrations was 24.24 q/ha, which was 26.64 percent higher as compared to farmers practices (19.14 q/ha). The extension gap, technology gap and technology index were 5.10 q/ha, 2.56 q/ha and 9.56 percent respectively. Higher net return and B:C ratio recorded as ₹ 95432/ha and 4.76 under demonstration plot as compared to farmers practices (₹ 72920/ha and 4.25). The results of demonstrations observed that the low productivity at farmers’ fields may be enhanced through cluster frontline demonstrations (CFLD).

Effect of Organic Manures and Chemical Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.)

A field experiment was conducted at experimental farm, Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences, Mewar University Gangrar, Chittorgarh (Rajasthan) during Rabi season of 2023-24 to effect of organic manures and chemical fertilizers on growth and yield of green gram, variety “SML-832‟ was used in this study. The required quantities of fertilizers as per treatments were applied. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications consisting of ten treatments. The data recorded maximum growth parameters like, plant height (51.45 cm), number of branches per plant (4.08) and yield parameters like, number of pods per plant (20.58, number of seeds per pod (8.65), test weight (38.92 g), grain yield (1106.45 kg/ha), straw yield (2583.85 kg/ha) and maximum net return (48100 Rs/ha) and B:C ratio (1.58) was recorded with T9-75% Vermicompost @ 1.25 t per ha. The minimum growth and yield obtained with control treatment. Therefore, concluded that impact of different organic manures and chemical fertilizers on the growth and yield of the green gram. Among different T9-75% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1.25 t per ha registered the maximum production with higher net return. So, it was concluded that the treatment 75% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1.25 t per ha superior among all treatments.

Yield and Economic Analysis of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) as Influenced by the Nano Forms of Nitrogen and Zinc

A field experiment was conducted at College Farm of College of Agriculture located in Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, conducted research during the rabi season of 2020-21, focusing on the effects of nano nitrogen and nano zinc in sandy loam soils. The experimental design employed was a randomized block design (RBD), comprising ten distinct treatments, each replicated three times. The treatments viz., Control (T1), 100% N through urea (T2), T2 + soil application of ZnSO4 at transplanting (T3), T2 + foliar spray of 4 ml L-1 nano nitrogen at tillering and before panicle initiation stage (T4), T2 + foliar spray of 2 ml L-1 nano zinc at tillering and before panicle initiation stage (T5), T2 + foliar spray of 4 ml L-1 nano nitrogen at tillering and before panicle initiation stage + foliar spray of 2 ml L-1 nano zinc at tillering and before panicle initiation stage (T6), 75% N through urea + foliar spray of 4 ml L-1 nano nitrogen before panicle initiation stage. (T7), T7 + foliar spray of 2 ml L-1 nano zinc at tillering and before panicle initiation stage (T8), 50% N through urea + foliar spray of 4 ml L-1 nano nitrogen at tillering and before panicle initiation stage (T9), T9 + foliar spray of 2 ml L-1 nano zinc at tillering and before panicle initiation stage (T10). The results indicated that the highest grain yield (6810 kg ha-1) was registered with treatment T10 which is on par with T9. The highest net returns (86649 Rs ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.99) were noticed by the application of T10.

Efficacy of Pre and Post Emergence Herbicides against Complex Weed Flora, Yield and Economics of Blackgram under High Hills Wet Temperate Zone of Himachal Pradesh

Background: Implementing integrated strategies for weed management is essential in maximizing blackgram yield. Unchecked weed proliferation leads to substantial decrease in crop productivity. Methods: The current field experiment was conducted at Salooni, Himachal Pradesh, to evaluate the efficacy of different integrated weed management practices during Kharif 2022 and 2023. Eleven treatments targeting weed control were evaluated both at pre and post - emergence stages. Result: The predominant weeds were Echinochloa colona, Galinsoga parviflora, Cyperus species and other broad leaf weeds were Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium repens, Trianthema species, Ageratum conyzoides. Data on weed dynamics revealed that; after weed-free treatment, the application of Imazethapyr 75 g/ha as PE fb HW at 30 DAS; Pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha as PE fb HW at 30 DAS and Pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha + imazethapyr 75 g/ha (PE) recorded a significantly lower total weed count as compared to other treatments. Parameters related to blackgram growth and yield, including plant height, number of branches per plant, pods per plant, grain yield and haulm yield were significantly higher with weed-free treatment followed by application of imazethapyr 75 g/ha as PE fb HW at 30 DAS, remaining at par with application of pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha + imazethapyr 75 g/ha (PE) and pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha as PE fb HW at 30 DAS. The most economically efficient weed control method was the combination of pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha + imazethapyr 75 g/ha (PE), as it resulted in the highest net returns and marginal benefit-cost ratio.

Crop establishment and nutrient management options: Optimizing productivity, maximize profitability and mitigating adverse climatic conditions in the maize-based production system of Northwest India

Poor fertilizer management and intensive tillage have increased production costs, lowered productivity, and significantly depleted soil nutrients. Although nutrient management options (NMOs) within crop establishment options (CEOs) based maize production system (MPS) is seldom explored, CEOs is increasingly advocated to tackle problems with soil health, food security, and climate change. Developing and implementing effective NMOs is needed for improving system sustainability, profitability, and productivity. We evaluated the effects of CEOs and NMOs on nutrient acquisition, profitability, and maize productivity in the Northwestern Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGPs) of India during 2018–2019. In this study, four CEOs treatment [(i) conventional tillage without residue {CT–R}, (ii) conventional tillage with residue {CT+R}, (iii) permanent raised bed without residue {PRB–R}, and (iv) permanent raised bed with residue {PRB+R}], were kept in the main plot and three NMOs [(i) soil test-based recommendation {STBR}, (ii) nutrient expert-based recommendation {NE}, and (iii) NE with GreenSeeker {NE+GS} were tested in subplots. The results showed that the crop growth metrics, including plant height, dry matter accumulation, leaf area index, and crop growth rate, were significantly greater at PRB+R comparing to treatments. Additionally, PRB+R resulted in the shortest time to 50 % and 75 % silking, indicating enhanced crop development. NMOs significantly improved crop growth parameters. The NE+GS treatment recorded higher plant height (145.8–149.2 cm and 222.3–224.8 cm), dry matter accumulation (195.5–198.4 g/m² and 408.4–412.0 g/m²), leaf area index (2.45–2.48 and 3.24–3.30), and crop growth rate (6.50 and 7.10 g/m²/day). PRB+R showed the shortest silking times (60.5 and 62.2 days). PRB+R also attained the maximum maize yield (6.23 and 6.26 t/ha), by a 17.82 % and 17.57 % increase over CT–R in 2018 and 2019. The NE+GS treatment resulted in the highest maize productivity, with additional yield gains over NE alone and STBR. The lowest cultivation cost ($513.87/ha and $513.97 /ha), highest net return ($1028.91/ha and $1083.60/ha), and best benefit-cost ratio (2.00 and 2.11) were observed with PRB–R, while gross returns ($1573.78/ha and $1630.42/ha) had highest in PRB+R. The NE+GS option achieved higher gross returns ($1544.73/ha and $1599.37/ha), net returns ($918.29/ha and $977.30/ha), and benefit-cost ratios (1.47 and 1.57) with lower cultivation costs ($626.43/ha and $622.06/ha) compared to NE and STBR. The PRB+R and NE+GS combination had found highest nutrient uptake (N, P, K) in grain and straw, highlighting their effectiveness in nutrient management. Overall, our findings recommend adopting PRB+R and NE+GS to optimize maize production system productivity and profitability, ensuring agricultural sustainability and resilience to adverse climatic conditions in Northwest India.

Yields, nutrient-use efficiencies and production economics of wheat (Triticum aestivum) as influenced by foliar nano urea

The nano fertilizers are becoming popular in crop production sector due to their higher nutrient use efficiency and also enhance the productivity and quality while requiring less input and being environmentally safe. In order to assess the effect of foliar application of nano urea on growth and yield performances of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and to evaluate nitrogen-use efficiency under integrated use of nano urea, this study was undertaken during the rabi seasons of 2021–22 and 2022–23 at the Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, West Bengal. The experiment was laid-out in a randomized block design (RBD) having 13 treatments consisting of foliar application of water, nano urea (once at tillering and twice at tillering and jointing) and 5% urea in combination with each of 50,75 and 100% of recommended nitrogen doses (RDN) along with a control (without N), and each treatment was replicated thrice. It was observed that foliar application of nano urea (0.4%) twice at tillering and jointing stages with 100% (RDN 5,759 kg/ha) was statistically at par with 100% RDN + 5% foliar spray of urea twice at tillering and jointing stage (5,985 kg/ha) in terms of grain yield, the latter being the highest yielder. Foliar application of either urea or nano urea by curtailing 25-50% RDN did not brought about superior growth and yield performances. Under each level of RDN (100%, 75% and 50%), foliar application of 5% urea was a bit superior to nano urea, though the difference was not statistically significant. However, nano urea reflected higher nitrogen-use efficiency under all levels RDN; partial factor productivity of nitrogen (PFPN) and agronomic nitrogen-use efficiency (ANUE) values be- ing the highest under 50% RDN along with two spraying of nano urea (56.76 and 24.50 kg grain/kg N). The treat- ment comprising 100% RDN+ 5% spray of urea at tillering and jointing stages resulted in the highest net return (69608 `/ha) and B: C ratio (2.58), closely followed by the treatment comprising nano urea application twice (gross return, net return and B: C ratio of 109,426 `/ha, 63,748 `/ha and 2.40, respectively) with 100% RDN, being statis- tically at par with each other. It can be concluded from this two-year trial that only foliar application of nano urea by curtailing soil nitrogen application to 25-50% resulted in reduced yield performances of wheat; nano urea had pro- motive effects on yields when it was applied along with 100% RDN.

Productivity and energetics of basmati rice-wheat cropping systems under different farming conditions in northwest India

ABSTRACT Basmati rice-wheat cropping systems have the potential to upscale organic agriculture in India because of the lower nutritional requirements and the geographical indication status of basmati rice. The energetics of organic production of basmati rice-wheat needs to be assessed to delineate its efficiency as compared with conventional production. An experiment with different management systems was conducted at Punjab Agricultural University Ludhiana, Punjab, India during 2018–19 and 2019–20 seasons to assess the productivity, economics and energetics of this cropping system in different organic and conventional management systems. The experiment was conducted in a randomised complete block design, replicated thrice, with nine treatments, including organic, chemical, natural farming, integrated nutrient management (INM) and integrated crop management (ICM). The highest basmati rice grain yield (3390 kg ha−1) was obtained with chemical management, which was statistically at par with ICM, INM and FYM treatments, but was significantly higher than that in the organic and natural farming treatments. The highest wheat grain yield (4450 kg ha−1) was recorded with ICM, which was statistically at par with INM and chemical management. Higher productivity in basmati rice was achieved with chemical and integrated management, but the highest net returns and benefit-to-cost ratio (2.89) were recorded under organic farming due to the price premium obtained for the produce. In wheat, despite higher cultivation costs, organic farming had lower returns, while chemical management had the highest net returns and benefit-to-cost ratio (2.9). Natural farming treatments were more energy efficient than the other systems because of low energy inputs.

Effects of feeding regime on growth, production, and economics of Oreochromine cichlids (Oreochromis mossambicus) in earthen ponds of Bangladesh

The experiment was carried out to evaluate the effects of feeding frequency on the growth, production, and economic aspects of Oreochromine cichlids (Oreochromis mossambicus) in nine earthen ponds for 120 days. Three different feeding regimes (T1, T2, and T3) with three replications each were used. The stocking density was uniform across all treatments at 25,000 fish per hectare. The fish were fed a commercially available pelleted feed with the same feeding rate in all treatments, but the feeding frequency varied. The feeding rate was 10%, 8%, 7%, 6 %, 5%, and 4% which was consecutively adjusted after each fortnightly sampling and 3% for the last 4 weeks of the study period. Feeding frequencies were once a day for T1, twice a day for T2, and three times a day for T3. The average weight gain of Oreochromine cichlids in T3 (295±5 gm) was significantly higher (P<0.05) than those of T2 (240.67±6.66 gm) and T1 (217.17±7.64 gm). The survival rates were 95.20%, 96.99%, and 97.33% for T1, T2, and T3, respectively. The net production of fish in T3 (2882.00±62.00 kg/ha) was significantly higher (P<0.05) than in T2 (2413.00± kg/ha) and T1 (2223±30.55). Furthermore, the highest net return (USD 1163/ha with a cost-benefit ratio of 1.42) was achieved from T3, followed by T2 (USD 527/ha with a cost-benefit ratio of 1.19) and T1 (USD 270/ha with a cost-benefit ratio of 1.09). The results demonstrated that increasing the feeding frequency has positive effects on the growth and production of Oreochromine cichlids.