System Net Returns Research Articles

Effect of Windbreaks (Casuarina equisetifolia L.) on Productivity of Paddy in South Gujarat

The intentional integration of trees into an agroecosystem results in agroforestry practices such as windbreak, which simultaneously help the economy, the environment, and society. It is a crucial tool for safeguarding agricultural land and boosting crop productivity. An investigation was therefore conducted to determine the impact of windbreaks (Casuarina equisetifolia L.) on paddy productivity in South Gujarat. In the current study, we found that environmental competition caused paddy growth and production to decrease close to the Casuarina windbreak. The impact of the windbreaks on paddy growth and yield became positive, and the continuously increased distance from the windbreaks reached its maximum at 17 m (Plant height 97.34 cm, number of tillers per plant 11.17, total fresh weight plant 17,799 kg ha-1, dry straw weight 6,577 kg ha-1 and grain yield 4,103 kg ha-1) and then gradually decreased (plant height 83 cm, tillers per plant 8.17, total fresh weight plant 12,315 kg ha-1, dry straw weight 4,855 kg ha-1 and grain yield 3,101 kg ha-1). The wind velocity maximum (4.57 km hr-1) close to windbreaks exhibits an opposite tendency, decreasing continually to a minimum (3.32 km hr-1) at a distance of 17 meters from the windbreaks before increasing once again. In addition, this system's net returns (Rs. 40,619) and benefit-cost ratio (0.61) were noticeably higher than those of open fields (Rs. 34,749 and benefit cost ration 0.52). In contrast to the control, the pH of the soil beneath the windbreak was reported to be considerably closer to neutral (7.46), while electrical conductivity (0.19 dS/m) was reduced. The impact of windbreaks was found to considerably increase soil organic carbon (0.68%), accessible nitrogen (234.46 kg/ha), phosphorus (75.75 kg/ha), and potassium (398.07 kg/ha) as compared to control. According to the study's overall findings, windbreak-protected paddy fields perform noticeably better than open ones.

Sustainable Cropping System Intensification in Arid Region of India: Fallow Replacement with Limited Duration Sorghum–Legume Intercropping Followed by Eruca sativa Mill. Grown on Conserved Soil Moisture

A field experiment was conducted to explore the possibilities of sustainable crop intensification in the fallow–Eruca sativa Mill. system in arid ecology by replacing fallow with short-duration sorghum–legume intercropping. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with two planting systems (bed and conventional) in main plots and a factorial combination of crop duration (50 and 60 days) and cropping systems (sole sorghum, sorghum + cowpea, sorghum + Sesbania in 2:2 ratio) in sub-plots. In the succeeding Eruca sativa crop, residuals and two gypsum levels (0 and 250 kg ha−1) were tested. Bed planting practiced during both seasons did not improve the system productivity to significant levels. Extending the duration of fallow replacement crops from 50 to 60 days significantly increased their forage yield, overall system productivity by 25–34%, and system net returns by 15.9–21.5%. Amongst the intercropping systems, the sorghum + Sesbania system added 10–13 tonnes ha−1Sesbania biomass to the soil, resulting in higher soil organic carbon, available nitrogen, dehydrogenase activity, and residual soil moisture, which increased the yield of the succeeding Eruca sativa crop by 8.8–15% compared to the residual of sole sorghum. However, it could not compensate for the yield loss due to the utilization of 50% of the area for growing the green manure crop. The sorghum + cowpea intercropping–Eruca sativa system was found to be the optimum combination with a system productivity of 1.27–1.87 Mg ha−1Eruca sativa seed equivalent. The productivity of Eruca sativa further improved by 9.5–23.7% due to the soil application of gypsum @ 250 kg ha−1. When averaged over treatments, fallow replacement during the rainy season reduced the available soil moisture at the sowing of Eruca sativa by 8.3–22.8% and subsequently its yield by 16.5–30.4% compared to the fallow–Eruca sativa system. However, with this production penalty, an additional rainy-season fodder crop was successfully grown, which improved the system productivity by 57.7–82.8%, net returns by 31.2–57.3%, and rainfall use efficiency from 0.21 to 36 USD/mm−1 ha−1. Hence, it may be concluded that short-duration fodder crops may be taken as fallow replacement crops for higher system productivity and rainfall use efficiency.

Designing Resource-Efficient and Environmentally Safe Cropping Systems for Sustainable Energy Use and Economic Returns in Indo-Gangetic Plains, India

Achieving an economically feasible and environmentally robust model in agriculture while satisfying the expanding population’s food demands is a global challenge. Hence, a three-year (2014–2017) study was conducted at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana to design environmentally clean, energy-efficient, and profitable cropping systems. Twelve cropping systems viz., rice-wheat (CS1), basmati rice-hayola (transplanted)-mung bean (CS2), basmati rice-radish-maize (CS3), maize-potato-maize (CS4), maize + turmeric-barley + linseed (CS5), maize + turmeric-wheat + linseed (CS6), maize + radish-wheat + linseed-mung bean (CS7), groundnut + pigeon pea (5:1)-wheat + sarson (9:1) (CS8), maize + black gram-pea (bed) + celery (furrows) (CS9),: maize + pigeon pea-chickpea (bed) + gobhi sarson (furrows) (CS10), maize (green cobs) + vegetable cowpea + dhaincha (Sesbania spp.)-chickpea + gobhi sarson (CS11) and sorghum + cowpea (fodder)-wheat + gobhi sarson (9:1) (CS12) were tested in a four-times-replicated randomized block design. CS11 had the maximum system productivity (28.57 Mg ha−1), production efficiency (78.27 Kg Day−1 ha−1), irrigation water use efficiency (2.38 kg m−3), system net returns (4413.3 US$ ha−1), and benefit to cost (B:C) ratio (2.83) over others. In comparison to the CS1 system, this cropping system required ~78% less irrigation water for a unit economic production. However, the cultivation of CS12 registered the highest energy use efficiency (49.06%), net energy returns (6.46 × 103 MJ ha⁻¹), and global warming potential (GWP) (Mg CO2 e ha−1) at spatial scale. Among all the intensified systems, CS11 had the lowest GHGI (0.29 kg CO2 e kg−1). Furthermore, cultivation of CS6 resulted in the maximum bacterial and actinomycetes population in the soil, while CS5 yielded the highest fungal count (23.8 × 103 cfu g−1 dry soil) in soil. Our study suggests that the cultivation of CS11 is a resource-efficient, economically viable, and environmentally clean production system and could be a potential alternative to rice-wheat systems for developing a green economy policy for agricultural development in the Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP) of India.

Performance of Diversified Legume Entailing Ultra High Intensity Rice based Cropping System Models for Higher Productivity, Profitability and Sustainability

Background: An intensive cropping system involving legume and vegetable crops not only highly productive and profitable but should also be stable over time and maintains soil health in present scenario. So, keeping this point in view the present investigation was carried out to evaluate the productivity, profitability and sustainability of legume entailing different ultra high intensity rice based cropping system models under irrigated sub-tropics. Methods: The field experiment was conducted at Research Farm, SKUAST-Jammu, Main Campus, Chatha for two consecutive years from kharif 2019 to summer season of 2021. The experiment consisting of five legume entailing rice based cropping system models of cropping intensity varying from 300-600% viz. T1: Rice (Basmati-370) - Wheat (HD-3086) - Cowpea (Lobia Super-60) having 300% cropping intensity, T2: Rice (Basmati-564) - Potato (Kufri Badshah) - Wheat (Raj-3765) - Mixed fodder (Maize+Cowpea+Charri in 2:2:1 ratio) having 400% cropping intensity, T3: Rice (SJR-129) - Knol khol (G-40) - Potato (Kufri Sindhuri) - Green gram (IPM 02-3) having 400% cropping intensity, T4: Rice (Pusa-1121) - Radish (CR-45) - Green onion (Nasik Red) - French bean (Anupama) - Okra (Seli special) having 500% cropping intensity in relay cropping from fourth crop onwards and T5: Rice (IET-1410) - Fenugreek (JF-07) - Knol khol (G-40) - Green onion (Nasik Red) - Dry onion (Selection-1) - Black gram (Pant U-19) having 600% cropping intensity in relay cropping from third crop onwards was laid out in a randomized block design with four replications. Result: The results obtained under two years research study revealed that treatment T4 recorded significantly highest basmati-370 rice equivalent system productivity followed by treatment T5. Further, treatment T4 also recorded highest system cost of cultivation, system gross returns and system net returns. System soil fertility status in terms of available NPK after completion of second crop cycle was significantly affected. Among different cropping systems, significantly higher available nitrogen and phosphorus were recorded in treatment T5 system which was at par with treatment T4.

Comprehensive environmental impact assessment for designing carbon-cum-energy efficient, cleaner and eco-friendly production system for rice-fallow agro-ecosystems of South Asia

High energy consumption and carbon emission are the major components of environmental pollution. Reducing carbon-footprints and improving energy use efficiency in rice (Oryza sativa L.) - fallow production systems of South Asia is a great challenge. The present experiment was conducted for five consecutive years (2016–2020) with an aim to design the most carbon-cum-energy efficient, cleaner/safer and eco-friendly production systems for rice-fallows in eastern India. This split-plot experiment had crop establishment-cum-residue management (CERM) treatments in main-plots and post-rainy/winter season crops in sub-plots. The production systems selected for analysis included three crop establishment methods [(1) zero-till-direct-seeded rice (ZTDSR), (2) conventional-till direct-seeded rice (CTDSR), and (3) transplanted puddled rice (TPR)], and two residue management practices [(i) with residue, and (ii) without residue] in combination with five potential winter season crops i.e., chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), lentil (Lens culinaris L.), safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.), linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.), and mustard (Brassica juncea L.). Results revealed an increase in overall system productivity from 3.5 to 5.13 Mg ha−1 due to the diversification of rice-fallow systems with oilseed and pulse crops. Irrespective of residue management practices, ZTDSR increased the yield by 15 and 31% in chickpea, 15 and 34% in lentil, 33 and 50% in safflower, 9 and 19% in linseed, and 7 and 15% in mustard as compared to CTDSR and PTR, respectively. Moreover, adoption of ZTDSR reduced energy uses by 23.3%, while increased energy ratio and net returns by 14.3 and 10.9%, respectively, over TPR. Pulse based crop rotations (rice-lentil and rice-chickpea) under ZTDSR with surface crop residue yielded 21.5% higher system net returns as compared to rice-oilseed production systems. ZTDSR treatment also reduced carbon-footprint (C-footprint) by 2.8% compared to TPR-based production systems. Similarly, rice-oilseed systems had a 16.1% lower C-footprint in comparison to rice-pulse sequences. Hence, rice-chickpea, rice-lentil and rice-safflower production systems in combined with ZTDSR along with residue retention can be viable production systems with higher system productivity, better economic returns, higher energy ratio and lower C-footprint. These systems will ensure an efficient utilization of natural resources leading to long-term sustainability of the rice-fallow production systems of South Asia.

Frame Score, Grazing and Delayed Feedlot Entry Effect on Performance and Economics of Beef Steers from Small- and Large-Framed Cows in an Integrated Crop-Livestock System.

Simple SummarySmall-framed cows require less pasture forage per animal unit compared to their larger-framed counterparts. Small-framed cows whose mature size has been reduced by breeding moderate to large-framed cows to small-framed Aberdeen Angus (Lowline) sires produce progeny that are often subject to marketing bias within the USA marketing system, when they are sold at weaning as feeder cattle destined for feedlots (approximately seven months of age), because their post-weaning growth and efficiencies are less. In lieu of selling small-framed steers at weaning, delaying feedlot entry by retaining ownership of progeny through the wintering period followed by grazing a sequence of perennial and annual forages grown on marginal semi-arid cropland for 212 days before feedlot finishing is a management protocol that eliminates market bias. Extended grazing prepares small-frame steers for compensatory gain during feedlot finishing, reduces feedlot feeding days by 62.4%, improves growth, supports comparable feed efficiency, reduces finishing feed cost, reduces finishing feed cost per kg of gain, yields exceptional meat quality (97% Choice quality grade), and increases net return to the integrated system.When selling small-framed steers at weaning, profitability is diminished. The hypothesis is that by using a vertically integrated business model that includes retained ownership, extended grazing, abbreviated feedlot finishing, and selling at slaughter, profitability would increase. Crossbred yearling steers (n = 288) from small size Aberdeen Angus (Lowline) × Red Angus × Angus × Angus cows and moderate to large size Red Angus × Angus × Simmental × Gelbvieh cows calved May−June were randomly assigned (complete randomized design), in a 3 y study, to feedlot control (FLT) and extended grazing (GRZ) frame score treatment groups. Mean frame score for FLT were small frame (SF) 3.82 and large frame (LF) 5.63, and for GRZ, SF: 3.77 and LF: 5.53. Least-square means were utilized to identify levels of effects and to control family-wise error adjusted with Tukey test. The FLT control steers were housed in the feedlot and fed growing diets and subsequently high energy corn-based diets for 218 days. The GRZ steers grazed a sequence of forages (native range, field pea-barley mix, and unharvested corn) for 212 days and then were transferred to the feedlot and fed high energy corn-based finishing diets for 82 days. The SF GRZ steers grew more slowly grazing native range and annual forages compared to GRZ LF steers, but SF steer grazing cost per kg of gain was reduced 7.80%. Grazing steers did not grow to their full genetic potential. Slower growth during grazing allowed LF and SF steers to grow structurally before feedlot entry creating a compensatory feedlot finishing growth response. Overall, grazing steer performance exceeded steer performance of the FLT control treatment and LF grazing steers had the highest rate of gain, and lowest feed cost per kg of gain. The GRZ steer feedlot days on feed were reduced 136 days and total feed intake was reduced resulting in LF and SF grazing steer feed cost reductions of 175.9 and 165.3%, respectively. Extended grazing also resulted in LF and SF grazing steer hot carcass weights to be greater than control LF and SF steers and SF grazing steers had greater dressing percent, and marbling score. Carcass quality grade, meat tenderness, and cooking losses were similar. System net returns were highest for LF (USD 911.58), and SF (USD 866.61) grazing steers. Managerial modification combining retained ownership, extended grazing, and delayed feedlot entry increased profitability and eliminated market bias.

Evaluation and Identification of Rabi Castor Based Profitable Cropping Systems on Alfisols in Southern Telangana

Aim: The experiment was aimed at identifying the rabi castor based profitable cropping systems for Alfisols of Southern Telangana Zone.
 Study design: Split plot design with three replications
 Place and duration of study: Regional Agricultural Research Station, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Palem, Telangana state, India during rabi season of 2010-11 and 2011-12.
 Methodology: The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with five preceding crops (mung bean, fodder jowar, corn, pearlmillet and sesame) in main plots and four nitrogen levels of rabi castor in sub plots (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N ha-1). The growth parameters, yield attributes, seed yield, water use efficiency and economics were studied.
 Results: The results showed that among different proceeding crops evaluated that significantly higher castor seed yield and castor equivalent yield were obtained when rabi castor was preceded by corn (1973 and 2931 and kg ha-1) and mung bean (1868 and 2696 kg ha-1) as compared to that of sesame (1672 and 2207 kg ha-1), pearl millet (1823 and 2199 kg ha-1) and fodder jowar (1783 and 2154 kg ha-1). However, higher total system gross returns (Rs. 1,04,118 ha-1) and net returns (Rs. 52,462 ha-1) were accrued when rabi castor was grown after corn only, but, a higher B:C ratio was realized due to mung bean as a preceding crop (2.12). Though castor during rabi season responded similarly to 80 and 120 kg N ha-1 in terms of castor seed yield (2275 and 2381 kg ha-1) and castor equivalent yield (2887 and 3013 kg ha-1), application of 120 kg N ha-1to castor resulted in accruing of higher system net returns (Rs. 60,638 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.27). However, the results of interaction further showed that rabi castor preceded by mung bean with the application of 80 kg N ha-1 was found profitable (Rs. 75,573 ha-1). It was closely followed by corn-castor system (Rs. 73,289 ha-1).

System productivity and economics influenced by residue and potassium management in maize (Zea mays)-wheat (Triticum aestivum) rotation

A field experiment was conducted during kharif and rabi 2014-2016 at ICAR-IARI, New Delhi to study the system productivity, economics and energetics of maize (Zea mays L.) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) as influenced by crop residue (CR) and potassium (K) management under zero till maize-wheat system. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with four CR levels (0, 2, 4 and 6 t/ha) and five K levels (0, 50%, 100%, 150% RDK [recommended dose of K] and 50% RDK+Potassium solubilizing bacteria, KSB). Results revealed that significantly higher system productivity, output energy, specific energy and highest energy intensiveness, actual change in available K were found with 4.0-6.0 t/ha CR. Maximum B: C ratio in maize-wheat system was observed with No CR followed by 2.0-4.0 t/ha CR. Highest net energy returns, energy use-efficiency, energy productivity and lowest input energy (351- 395%) in both crops were registered with No CR fb 2.0-4.0 t/ha CR. Among K management, 50% RDK+KSB was significantly superior over rest levels. The maximum system net returns, B:C ratio, output energy, net energy returns, energy use-efficiency and energy productivity were found in 50% RDK+KSB and consumed only 0.34-0.35% higher input energy over no K in maize and wheat. Change in available K was more in 150% RDK fb 50% RDK+KSB and 100% RDK. Thus, a combination of 2.0-4.0 t/ha CR retention and 50% RDK along with seed inoculation with KSB improved system productivity, net returns and energetic parameters in zero tillage maize-wheat system, and brought positive change in available K and hence can be recommended for adaptation by the farmers.

Assessment of Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] Based Cropping Systems in Mid-Hill Regions of Uttarakhand

The research on productivity, energy-use efficiency and economics of pigeonpea based cropping system, viz., pigeonpea–wheat, pigeonpea – barley, pigeonpea – lentil, pigeonpea – field pea and pigeonpea – toria compared with rice–wheat cropping system was carried out at the Experimental Research Block of School of Agricultural Sciences, SGRRU, Uttarakhand. These cropping systems were evaluated under rainfed conditions. Results showed that all the pigeonpea – based cropping system were significantly superior to traditional rice – wheat cropping system in terms of productivity, net returns, benefit:cost ratio and net energy returns. Pigeonpea – lentil cropping system proved superior in terms of system net returns (Rs 63,616/ha), benefit:cost ratio (1.64) and energy ratio (1.94) to pigeonpea - wheat, pigeonpea – barley, pigeonpea - field pea and pigeonpea - toria cropping system. The plots under rice - wheat cropping system recorded the lowest pigeonpea-equivalent yield (1.32 t/ha), net returns (Rs 2,750/ha) and benefit:cost ratio (0.06). The nutrient status of the soil improved significantly due to pigeonpea – lentil cropping system over other cropping systems. Pigeonpea – lentil cropping system proved to be the best in terms of monetary returns, net energy return and soil productivity and hence, could be adopted in the mid-hill regions under rainfed conditions.

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) establishment methods based systemintensification: Effects on Bt cotton growth, weed suppression, system crop and water productivity, system-profitability and land–use efficiency in Indo– Gangetic plains region

A field experiment was conducted at IARI, New Delhi during 2014-15 and 2015-16 to study the effect of Bt cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) establishment methods (CEMs) and planting geometry on plant growth, yield and weed suppression behaviour in Bt cotton vis-à -vis system productivity, profitability, water-productivity, production-efficiency, economic-efficiency and land use efficiency. The experiment was laid out in split-plot-design with four replications comprising two CEMs [transplanted-cotton (TPC) and direct-seeded-cotton (DSC)] and three planting geometries/plant densities [(90×60 cm (18,518 plants/ha); 75 × 45 cm (29629 plants/ha) and 60×45 cm (37,037 plants/ha)] and four cropping systems viz. TPC−wheat−mungbean; TPC−onion−fodder cowpea + maize; DSC−wheat; and DSC−onion cropping system under above two CEMs. Among CEMs, the DSC-cotton resulted in higher plant growth though the seed yield and lint yield were respectively higher by ~9.54% and ~15% under TPC-cotton over DSC-cotton due to better plant stand in TPC–CEM. On an average, the significantly highest system productivity in terms of seed-cottonequivalent- yield (SCEY) was registered in TPC−wheat−mungbean/TPC−onion−fodder cowpea + maize cropping systems (mean of both systems) during 2014–15 (6.75 t/ha) and 2015–16 (6.96 t/ha), respectively. In general, the legume-intensification in TPC–based cropping systems exhibited about 25 to 27% higher system yield (SCEY) over DSC–based cropping systems. The TPC–based cropping systems exhibited additional net economic gains of ` 43000/ ha vis-à -vis higher weed suppression, system crop and water productivity, system economic-efficiency and land–use efficiency over the DSC–based systems. Likewise, planting geometry/planting density of 60 × 45 cm (37037 plants/ ha) exhibited significantly higher system productivity (SCEY) (6.58 t/ha), system net returns (` 178450/ha), system water-productivity and system economic-efficiency over other two planting geometries viz. 75 × 45 cm and 90 × 60 cm. In nutshell, system-intensification through transplanted Bt-cotton based cropping systems (TPC−wheat−mungbean/ TPC−onion−fodder cowpea + maize) and planting geometry/planting density of 60 × 45 cm (37037 plants/ha) led to higher weed suppression, system productivity, system economic-efficiency, system water-productivity and land–use efficiency in Indo–Gangetic plains region.

Conservation agriculture based sustainable intensification of basmati rice-wheat system in North-West India

ABSTRACTContinuous mono-cropping of rice-wheat (RW) system with conventional tillage (CT) based management practices have led to decline in soil health, groundwater table and farmers profit in north-west India. A medium-term (4 years) farmer’s participatory strategic research trial of basmati RW system was conducted to evaluate the effects of conservation agriculture (CA) based management practices on crop yields, water productivity, profitability and soil quality. Six treatments were compared varied in the cropping system, tillage, crop establishment and residue management. CA-based management under zero-till direct seeded rice-wheat-mungbean recorded 36% higher system yield than conventional till rice-wheat system (14.91 Mg ha−1). CA-based rice-wheat system and rice-wheat-mungbean system saved ~35% irrigation water compared to conventional RW system (2168 mm ha−1). Total water productivity (WPI+R) was improved by 67% with CA-based rice-wheat-mungbean system (0.90 kg grain m−3) over the conventional system. On system basis, 42% higher net return was recorded with CA-based rice-wheat-mungbean system compared to conventional system (USD 2570 ha−1). Mungbean integration in basmati RW system contributed 29% share in system net returns across the treatments. Soil chemical and biological properties were improved by ~40% and 150%, respectively, with CA-based management system.

Fertilizer Phosphorus Solubility Effects on Indian Mustard–Maize and Wheat–Soybean Cropping Systems Productivity

In Indian mustard and wheat, newly developed phosphorus fertilizers, Suphla of 20:20:0 grade with 60 and 80% water solubility were comparable with di‐ammonium phosphate for crop productivity. Residual effect of newly developed phosphorus fertilizers sources was significant in succeeding maize and soybean crops. All P sources were found equally effective and recorded higher yields and nutrient uptake compared to omission of P. Phosphorus fertilizer sources, Suphla of 20:20:0 grade with 60 and 80% water solubility can be used to meet out the P requirement of mustard–maize and wheat–soybean systems. Crop responses to P fertilization, in terms of productivity, phosphorus‐use efficiency (PUE), and residual fertility in soil, can depend on the form of P applied. A field experiment was conducted to determine the effect of various P fertilizer forms on productivity and PUE indices in two predominantly practiced Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.]–maize [Zea mays (L.)] and wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Flori & Paol]–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] cropping rotations. The experiment was conducted during 2012–2014 at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India. A ‘Suphala’ P fertilizer, with 30, 60, and 80% water solubility was compared with single superphosphate (SSP) and di‐ammonium phosphate (DAP), all including the recommended dose of N and K through urea and muriate of potash. The seed yield (6.0—21.3%), crop equivalent yield (4.7–10.3%) and system net returns (1.8–11.8%) of Indian mustard were higher with direct application of SSP over other soluble and partially soluble P fertilizers. Wheat yield (4.6–9.6%) and system net returns (2.7–9.6%), were higher using DAP. However, the residual effect of P fertilizers exerted a significant influence on the performance of succeeding maize and soybean crops. Using DAP as P fertilizer form recorded higher grain yield and system net returns of maize and soybean than other soluble P forms. Irrespective of the fertilizer form, treatments involving P application improved P use indices, and apparent N and K recovery in Indian mustard and wheat crops. Hence, the studied P fertilizer forms will result in higher productivity, sustainable use of resources and reduction in production costs for these cropping systems.

Replacing fallow with forage triticale in a dryland wheat-corn-fallow rotation may increase profitability

A common dryland rotational cropping system in the semi-arid central Great Plains of the USA is wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)-corn (Zea mays L.)-fallow (WCF). However, the 12-month fallow period following corn production has been shown to be relatively inefficient in storing precipitation during the summer months and in some years could leave the soil vulnerable to wind erosion. The objective of this experiment was to determine the effect on system productivity when the fallow period in a WCF rotation was replaced with spring-planted forage triticale (X Triticosecale rimpaui Wittm.). The 3-yr study was conducted at Akron, CO and Sidney, NE under both dryland and very limited irrigation conditions (to approximate average precipitation during the growing season). Growing season precipitation during the course of the study was above-average in five of the six site-years. Over a wide range of wheat water use (361–591mm) wheat yields ranged from 1696kgha−1 to 5527kgha−1. Wheat yields averaged 17% lower when triticale (T) replaced fallow, primarily because of reductions in water content at wheat planting. Corn yields were unaffected by triticale replacing fallow and ranged from 3159kgha−1 to 8085kgha−1. Triticale yields ranged from 2967kgha−1 to 6724kgha−1. System productivity as quantified by system net returns was greater for WCT than for WCF when growing season precipitation was above-average resulting in triticale production over 6000kgha−1, but even in drier years net income was not reduced when the fallow phase was replaced with triticale production. A WCT rotation can be recommended over WCF provided that growing season precipitation is not far below average and there is an available market for the triticale forage produced.Mention of trade names or commercial products in this publication is solely for the purpose of providing specific information and does not imply recommendation or endorsement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Economics of Zero-Till rabi castor (Ricinus communis L.) under the influence of different preceding crops

A field experiment was conducted during kharif and rabi season of 2010–11 and 2011–12 at College Farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, ANGRAU. The experiment was laid out in split plot design, replicated thrice with four preceding crops in main plots (green gram, groundnut, bajra and maize and five nitrogen levels to rabi castor in sub plots (0, 40, 80, 120 & 160 kg N/ha). The results revealed that among different systems, highest gross and net monetary returns and BCR was recorded in greengramcastor system with 120 kg/N/ha compared with other system. System gross, system net returns and system BCR, was recorded higher in maize castor with application of 120 kg/N/ha resulting in higher system productivity in terms of (Castor Equivalent Yield) CEY (6685 and 5828 kg/ha/year), systems gross returns (160440 and 169002 /ha/year), system net returns (124798 and 131460) and BCR (3.5 and 3.5). However, it did not differ statistically with greengram-castor at the same level of ‘N’ with comparable CEY (6356 and 5515 kg/ha/year), system gross returns (152552 and 159925), system net returns (122510 and 127983), BCR (4.08 and 4.01),

Effect of crop residues as mulching on maize-based cropping systems in conservation agriculture

A field experiment was carried out at MARS, Dharwad during kharif and rabi seasons of 2013–14 and 2014–15 to study the effect of mulching practices in maize-based cropping systems. The experiment comprising two main plot treatments like, maize grown on kharif mulch and without mulch in kharif with sub-plot treatment as rabi crops (wheat, safflower, chickpea and sorghum) and sub-sub plot treatments (rabi crops with mulch and rabi crops without mulch). The results of two years showed that maize grown with mulching practices recorded significantly higher grain yield (83.45 q/ha) of maize and yield parameters like test weight (40.83 g), cob length (21.09 cm) and grain weight per plant (172.5 g) as compared to without mulching practice (72.05 q/ha of grain yield). The per cent of grain yield increase with kharif residue mulching practice was to an extent of 15.82 and 19.32%, respectively, over without mulching practices. These were significantly higher WUE (water use effciency) (14.03 kg/ha.mm), gross returns (Rs.109316/ha) and net returns (Rs.74021/ha) as compared to without mulching practices. Mulching in both the seasons recorded significantly higher grain yield and water use efficiency (WUE) of wheat (17.29 q/ha and 23.92 kg/ha.mm), safflower (18.55 q/ha and 26.89 kg/ha.mm), chickpea (18.79 q/ha and 27.05 kg/ha.mm) and sorghum (19.70 q/ha and 26.82 kg/ha.mm) as compared to without mulching practices. Application of kharif mulch to chickpea crop in rabi season recorded significantly higher the total system net returns (109652 Rs./ha) as compared to without mulched treatment. It was on par with the safflower crop with rabi mulch (Rs. 106337/ha).

Moisture Conservation and Zinc Fertilization Impacts on System Performance and Soil Fertility Status of Pearlmillet-Chickpea Cropping System under Limited Moisture Conditions

The present study was conducted at the research farm of IARI, New Delhi for two consecutive years from 2012–13 to 2013–14 to find out the impact of moisture conservation and zinc fortification on system performance and soil fertility status of pearlmillet-chickpea cropping system under limited moisture conditions. Planting of pearlmillet and chickpea under the flat bed with 5.0 t/ha crop residue recorded significantly higher system productivity in terms of pearlmillet grain equivalent yield (8.98 t/ha), moisture use efficiency (16.13 kg/ha-mm) and total uptake of nutrients (N, P, K, Zn, Fe, Mn and Cu) over flat bed without crop residue and flat bed with 2.5 t/ha crop residue. However, the significantly higher system net returns of 83, 367/ha along with B: C ratio of 1.71 was observed under narrow bed and furrow with 2.5 t/ha crop residue. Residue applied, moisture conservation practices also showed remarkable improvement in soil fertility status at the end of cropping seasons as compared to without residue applied treatment. Under zinc fertilization treatments, application of 5.0 kg Zn/ha to pearlmillet recorded significantly higher system productivity, profitability, moisture use efficiency and total uptake of N, K and Zn over the lower levels. However, total uptake of P, Fe, Mn and Cu were increased significantly only up to 2.5 kg Zn/ha. Fertilization of chickpea with 5.0 kg Zn/ha also registered significantly higher system productivity, profitability, moisture use efficiency and total uptake of nutrients (except P) as compared to lower levels. Zinc fertilization treatments also brought significant improvement in organic carbon, available N, K and DTPA extractable Zn content in soil at the end of the experiment.

An Economic Comparison of Alternative Rice Production Systems in Arkansas

ABSTRACT Weak farm prices, high production costs, and potential future regulation of sediment loadings in waterways force many Arkansas rice producers to consider adopting new management systems to maintain profitability. However, rice producers are reluctant to try new systems without information about the economic outcomes. This paper uses data from a long-term rice-based cropping systems study at Stuttgart, Arkansas to evaluate the profitability and economic risk associated with alternative rice production systems. Economic returns and costs are compared for 40 different rice production systems for the years 2000 and 2001, and statistical analysis is performed to determine which production components (rotation, tillage, fertility, and year) significantly impact rice system net returns. A safety-first criterion is used to identify production systems that would be preferred by risk-averse rice producers. All production components were found to significantly impact rice system net returns during the two-year period. However, the most profitable systems tended to be two-year rice-soybean conventional till systems. These systems exhibited cost savings relative to other systems due to lower production costs for soybeans when compared to rice or corn. Risk analysis indicated that risk-averse rice producers would also prefer using two-year rice soybean conventional till systems to other rice systems. No-till systems were generally less profitable than conventional till systems in 2000 but were generally more profitable than conventional till systems in 2001. No-till may become more economically competitive with conventional till as management improves and soil conditions stabilize over time.

Influence of balanced nutrition on productivity, economics and nutrient uptake of hybrid maize (Zea mays)chickpea (Cicer arietinum) cropping sequence under irrigated ecosystem

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) and winter (rabi) seasons of 201213, 201314 and 201415 at farmers fields of Nargund taluk of Gadag district, Karnataka, to study the response of maize (Zea mays L.)chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cropping sequence to balanced nutrition. The experiment, consisting of 7 treatments, viz. absolute control, recommended N alone, recommended N and P, recommended N and K, recom- mended NPK, recommended NPK with ZnSO and farmers practice, was replicated in 12 farmers field in random- 4 ized complete-block design. Application of 150 kg/ha N, 75 kg/ha P and 37.5 kg/ha K along with 25 kg/ha ZnSO 4 to maize recorded significantly higher grain (5.42 t/ha) and stover (7.61 t/ha) yields, gross returns (63.86 103 / ha), net returns (36.50 103 /ha) and benefit: cost ratio (2.33). Similarly, significantly higher NPK uptake was with this treatment combination. In the succeeding chickpea, application of 25 kg/ha N, 50 kg/ha P and 15 kg/ha ZnSO 4 resulted in significantly higher seed (1.38 t/ha) and haulm (1.93 t/ha) yields. This treatment also recorded signifi- cantly higher gross returns (47.16 103 /ha), net returns (31.49 103 /ha) and benefit: cost ratio (3.40). System productivity of the cropping sequence indicated that significantly higher maize-equivalent yield (9.22 t/ha), system production efficiency (41.92 kg/ha/day) and system net returns (67.99 103 /ha) were observed with the applica- tion of 150 kg/ha N, 75 kg/ha P and 37.5 kg/ha K along with 25 kg/ha ZnSO to maize and 25 kg/ha N, 50 kg/ha P 4 and 15 kg/ha ZnSO to succeeding chickpea. 4

Productivity, economics and energetics of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan)-based cropping systems in mid-hills of northwest Himalaya

The study on system productivity, energy-use efficiency and economics of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Mill sp.]based cropping systems, viz., pigeonpeawheat {Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.}, pigeonpea barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), pigeonpealentil {Lens culinaris (L.) Medicus, pigeonpeafield pea {Pisum sativum (L.), sensu lato} and pigeonpeatoria {Brassica rapa (L.) var. toria} with comparise to rice (Oryza sativa L.)wheat cropping system was carried out at the Hawalbagh experimental farm of Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Almora, Uttarakhand during 20072009, under rainfed conditions. Results showed that all the pigeonpeabased cropping systems were superior to traditional ricewheat cropping system in terms of sys- tem productivity, net returns, benefit:cost ratio and net energy returns. Pigeonpealentil cropping system proved superior in terms of system net returns ( 63,616/ha), benefit:cost ratio (1.64) and energy ratio (1.94) to pigeonpeawheat, pigeonpeabarley, pigeonpeafield pea and pigeonpeatoria cropping systems. Ricewheat cropping system recorded the lowest pigeonpeaequivalent yield (1.32 t/ha), net returns ( 2,750/ha) and benefit:cost ratio (0.06). Nutrient status of the soil improved significantly due to pigeonpealentil cropping system over other cropping systems. Pigeonpealentil cropping system proved to be the best in terms of monetary re- turns, net energy return and soil productivity and hence, could be adopted in the north-west Himalayas under rainfed conditions.

Technical trading system performance in the Australian share market: Some empirical evidence

This study incorporates Australian All Ordinaries Share Price Index time series data over the period 1987–1991, and firstly considers the ability of technical trading systems to generate returns greater than a Buy-Hold control. Secondly it aims to test for the weak-form efficiency of the Australian Share Market. Efficiency is considered in both the statistical context and in terms of the trading system's net returns. Statistical test results provide the Australian share market to be weak-form efficient. In confirmation of this result, none of the trading systems employed were able to earn a return greater to the Buy-Hold control strategy once transactions costs were taken into consideration.