Economics of garlic cultivation in Kullu valley as affected by substitution of traditional fertilizers with bio-fertilizers

An investigation was conducted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh to assess the effect of substitution of traditional fertilizers with biofertilizers on economics of garlic cultivation. Experiment consisted of use of various combinations of Azotobacter, phosphorus solubilising bacteria (PSB) and 50–100% dose of traditional NPK fertilizers. From the study it was found that total yield of garlic was significantly influenced by the application of biofertilizers and NPK levels. Highest total yield (20.89 tonnes/ha), net returns (Rs 3,38,442/ha), gross returns (Rs 4,17,800/ha), cost of cultivation (Rs 75,432.5/ha) and benefit cost ratio (4.26) was obtained by using Azotobacter + PSB + 100% NPK. Integration of inorganic fertilizers with biofertilizers and organic manures may reduce the use of synthetic fertilizers and improve the soil health and plant nutrient availability resulting in higher crop yields, besides being environmentally safe, resulting in higher savings and benefit cost ratio.