evaluation of frontline demonstration on yam (Dioscorea alata L.) and maize (Zea mays L.) intercropping for livelihood security

The study was carried out through front line demonstrations during kharif seasons of the year 2012 and 2013 to study the yield and economics of yam and maize intercropping for livelihood security. The demonstration results show that the improved practice of yam and maize intercropping recorded higher yam tuber equivalent yield 140.36 q ha⁻¹, tuber weight (1.13 kg), tuber diameter(5.08 cm), production efficiency(52.37 kg ha⁻¹ day⁻¹), land equivalent ratio (1.71) and extension gap (13.21 q ha⁻¹) than farmer's practice of sole yam cropping. In yam and maize intercropping uptake of N, P and K by yam was lower and declined by 15.75, 2.79 & 12.99 kg ha⁻¹, respectively from farmer's practice. The improved practice also recorded the higher gross return of Rs. 210540 ha⁻¹, B: C ratio (1.50) and profitability (Rs. 191.08 ha⁻¹ day⁻¹) with additional net return of Rs. 38543 ha⁻¹ over local check which can effectively be diversfied with intercropping of yam and maize(1: 2) for livelihood security for higher remuneration and sustainability.