Performance of various cropping systems for production potential and economic feasibility in Vertisol of Vindhyan plateau of Madhya Pradesh under rainfed condition

Abstract

An experiment was conducted during 1990-93 to find out the most profitable cropping system suited to rainfed situation. Among the cropping systems, intercropping 2 rows of short-duration 'Pb 1' soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] between rows of 'JA 4' pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] was. most productive and remunerative (Rs 13 303/ha), followed by 2: 4 and 3: 6 intercropping system of pigeon pea + soybean and pigeonpea sole. Soybean-equivalent yield (2751 kg/ha) and pigeonpea-equivalent yield (1 926 kg/ha), aggressivity (0.105). relative crowding coefficient (10.0), land-equivalent ratio (1.71), monetary advantage index (3 300) and mean yield index of soybean (80.4) and pigeonpea (90.9) were also higher in 1 : 2 row arrangement. Intercropping system, however, proved better than double cropping, as the latter needs higher cost of management and lacks soil moisture at 0-15 cm depth. (8.9%) on receipt of deficient rains beyond October, precluding the sowing of winter crops.