Influence of Mechanization Levels and Energy Dynamics on Production Potential of Soybean under Rainfed Condition

Available labour in the agricultural farm has been decreasing over the years. Mechanization of agriculture is an essential input in modern agriculture. It enhances productivity besides reducing human drudgery and cost of cultivation. Mechanization also helps in improving utilization efficiency. A field experiment was conducted on medium black soils in Marathwada region of Maharashtra state during 2016 to 2018 with respect to evaluation mechanization practices coupled with various in-situ rainwater conservation practices for rainfed soybean. The treatments of complete mechanization, partial mechanization and traditional methods of cultivation were evaluated for rainfed soybean (MAUS-162) along with sub plot treatments of broad bed and furrow (BBF), ridges & furrow and flatbed. Complete mechanization in soybean resulted in higher seed yield, Gross Monitory Returns (GMR), Net Monitory Returns (NMR), Benefit Cost ratio (B: C ratio) and Rain Water Use Efficiency (RWUE). In-situ moisture conservation practices viz. BBF and ridges & furrow method of sowing recorded highest seed yield, GMR, NMR, B: C ratio and RWUE as compared to traditional method of cultivation. Complete mechanization along with BBF method of sowing soybean is found to be significantly superior over all treatment combinations with respect to seed yield, NMR, B: C ratio, RWUE. The highest energy output-input ratio (10.2) was observed in complete mechanization with BBF method of sowing.