Diversification of cropping systems under assured irrigated conditions in central plateau zone of Maharashtra

A field experiment was conducted for three consecutive years (2005–2007) at Parbhani to find out most productive and profitable cropping system. Among the different cropping systems, highest wheat [(Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol] equivalent yield (19.9 t/ha) and net monetary returns (107.8x10³/ha) were obtained from soybean [Glycine max (L. Merr.)]–onion (Allium capa L.) cropping system, followed by turmeric (Curcuma domestica L.)+ castor (Ricinus communis L.) (WEY-14.0 t/ha, and NMR 89.8x10³/ha). The soybean–onion system also recorded maximum net monetary advantage per unit time (573/ha/day), employment (374 mandays) and water use efficiency (221 kg/ha-cm), followed by turmeric+castor intercropping system. The highest nutrient uptake was recorded in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]–wheat followed by maize (Zea mays L.) + cow-pea (Vigna sinensis L.)–wheat and maize–wheat cropping systems. The highest soil nutrient status was observed in cotton (Gossypium sp.)–summer groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) followed by soybean–onion cropping systems.