Effect of water-harvesting techniques on productivity and water-use efficiency of rainy-season crops

A field experiment was conducted during 1990 and 1991 to study the effect of different water-harvesting techniques on productivity and water-use efficiency of rainy-season (kharif) crops. Water-harvesting techniques caused significant variation in yield, moisture use and moisture-use efficiency only in 1991. Bed and furrow-planting system recorded maximum grain yield (12.46 q/ha) and highest monetary returns (Rs 3,370/ha). This treatment also showed maximum moisture use (390.2 mm) as well as highest moisture-use efficiency (Rs 8.38/mm-ha). Crops varied significantly in respect of yield, moisture use and moisture-use efficiency in both the years. Pearlmillet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. emend. Stuntz] recorded the highest grain yield (23.48 q/ha) and maximum net returns (Rs 3,509/ha). Castor (Ricinus communis L.) and pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] utilized maximum soil moisture, but moisture-use efficiency was significantly higher under pearl millet.