Effect of organic farming on yield, quality and soil-fertility status under basmati rice (Oryza sativa)-wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system

A field experiment to explore the possibility of improving the productivity and sustainability of basmati rice (Oryza sativa L.) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.) through organic source was conducted at Karnal during 2004–05 to 2006–07. Rice productivity was at par under inorganic and organic fertilization where farmyard manure (FYM) application was 22.5 t/ha in rice and 20 t/ha or more in wheat. Rice grain-protein content (8.13–8.52%) was at par under all the treatments but the protein yield was significantly higher under inorganic compared to under organic source except under the highest dose (30 t/ha in rice and 40 t/ha in wheat) of FYM. Wheat productivity was lower (30.5% on pooled basis) under organic than under inorganic fertilization even under the highest FYM dose. Protein content in wheat increased with increase in the dose of FYM; but the highest protein content (11.24%) was recorded under inorganic fertilizer. FYM application for three years significantly improved the initial values of soil organic carbon (14.3%), available N (10.7%), P (5.4%) and K (2.6%). System's productivity in terms of rice-equivalent yield was 9.99 t/ha with inorganic fertiliser and 8.88 t/ha with FYM application (30 t/ha in rice and 40 t/ha in wheat). Net returns (Rs 74,170) and benefit: cost ratio (2.1) were significantly higher under inorganic fertilization.