Intensification and diversification in rice (Oryza sativa)–wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system for sustainability

A field experiment was conducted at Faizabad during 2005–10 to find out the feasibility of intensification and diversification in traditional rice (Oryza sativa L.)-wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.] cropping system. Hybrid rice-potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)-greengram (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) sequence was found most efficient with respect to production (22.1 t/ha/year), systems profitability (391.6 /ha/day), monetary returns (125.3×10³/ha/year) and energy production (54.2 × 10⁶ kcal.) followed by hybrid rice-mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj & Cosson]-blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) and basmati rice-lentil (Lens culinic Medik)-green fodder (maize (Zea mays L.) + cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp]. Intensification through inclusion of oilseeds and pulses crops increased the energy output and nutrient use efficiency. The sequences included leguminous crops (grains/fodder) improved the availability of NPK and organic C of the soil besides intensifying the system for higher productivity and profitability.