Productivity and economic feasibility of rice (Oryza sativa)-based cropping systems in north-western India

A field experiment was conducted during 1992-93 through 1995-96 with 5 rice -based cropping sequences, viz green manuring of dhaincha (Sesbania aculeat a Poir) -rice (Oryza sativa L.) - wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori and Paol), rice - wheat, rice - potato (Solanum tuberosome L.) - sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), rice-toria (Brassica compestris is var toria Duth. & Full) - sunflower and rice (scented)-sunflower at Kaul for evaluating the ir production potential and economic return. Total productivity, average pr oduction efficiency and land-use efficiency were highest in rice - potato - sunflower sequence, but significantly higher net returns over variable cos ts (Rs. 29.91 tonnes/ha) and benefit over the traditional rice - wheat sequ ence (40.29% higher)were recorded with scented rice - sunflower. Slight bui ldup in organic matter content of the soil was noticed with green manure - rice - wheat (0.38 - 0.47%) and rice - potato -sunflower (0.38-0.43%).