Productivity and net return of rice (Oryza sativa)-wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system as influenced by green manuring at farmers’ field

The experiment was carried out at farmer's field in Datia district by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Datia to evaluate the effect of green manuring on soil properties, productivity and economics of rice-wheat cropping system. Three treatments, viz. T1-green manuring with (Sesbania aculeata) + 75% RDF (90: 45: 30 kg NPK ha−1), T2-100% RDF (120: 60: 40 kg NPK ha−1) and T3-Farmer practice (control) were evaluated in rice-wheat cropping system during crop seasons of 2011–12 and 2012–13 at farmers ’field. The results revealed that there was a significant increase in rice equivalent yield (7.07 t ha−1 year−1) in plots receiving green manure through dhaincha + 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (T1) over farmers practice (5.84 t ha−1 year−1). Similarly, net profit (’187404 ha−1 year−1) and benefit: cost ratio (4.12) were also higher with treatment T1 over farmers ’practice. After green manuring with dhaincha, the soil properties (pH, EC, OC, P and K) were observed higher by 5.9, 10.52, 37.50 and 17.70%, respectively with treatment T1 over farmers practice.