On-Farm Cropping System Analysis on Productivity Economics and Energetics

摘要

An investigation was undertaken in farmers' fields at different locations of Nadia district, West Bengal, during 1998-1999 and 1999-2000 to study the efficiency of different cropping systems commonly followed by the farmers of this region with regardto their productivity, economics and energy efficiency. Among the six cropping systems studied, triple cropping systems (consisting of three crops) were most productive than double cropping systems. The highest rice equivalent yield was recorded in jute- rapeseed - rice (13.40 t/ha) followed by jute - rice - rice (12.61 t/ha) and the lowest was in rice - wheat system (9.57 t/ha). However, jute - wheat paid the highest net return (Rs 28633/ha) followed by jute - rapeseed - rice (Rs. 26247/ha). Fertiliser accounted for the single largest energy input (38.3%), comprising nitrogen alone taking the largest individual share of 33.2%. The second largest input share was in field operations (29.7%) followed by irrigation (25.0%). The energy used for other sources was of minor importance. Most of the energy sources used in different cropping systems are non renewable and cause great concern. However, a part of field operations consist of animate energy of bullock and manpower. Jute - rice - rice system produced the highest energy output but its high-energy requirement lowered down its energy use efficiency and energy productivity. Jute - wheat was the most energy-efficient cropping system due to its lowest energy requirement. Considering net return and energy use efficiency jute - wheat and jute - rapeseed - rice systems were more promising than any other cropping system, which can be recommended for small and marginal farmers.