Enhancing productivity and profitability through site specific nutrient management approach in rice (Oryza sativa L.)-wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cropping system

A field expriment was conductd during 2003-04 and 2004-05 on site specific nutrient management for maximization of yield and economics in hybrid rice (Oryza sativa L.)-wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cropping system. Fertilizer application in SSNM schedule showed significant improvement in grain yield of rice and wheat in comparison to farmers' practice. Highest grain yield of rice (8.9 t/ha) was found 31.8% higher to farmers' practice and 9.7% higher to state fertilizer recommendation and highest grain yield of wheat (6.2 t/ha) was recorded 28.1% higher to farmers' practice and 16.6% higher to state fertilizer recommendation. Maximum system productivity of 14.8 t/ ha in SSNM, schedule was recorded 27.8% higher to farmers' practice and 8% higher to state fertilizer recommendation. Maximum net return (Rs. 56,485/ha) and B : C ratio (2.28) were recorded in fertilizer schedule SSNM(7) (150 N: 30 P: 120 K: 50 S : 40 ZnSO(4) kg/ha) and found most profitable treatment over other treatments. Grain yield of rice showed significant improvement with the application of primary, secondary and micronutrient in comparison to their omitted plots. The direct application of N, P and K in wheat and residual effect of S and Zn applied in rice have shown significant increase in grain yield of wheat.