Crop diversification with turmeric crop for maximizing productivity, profitability and resource conservation

Field experiment entitled crop diversification with turmeric crop for maximizing productivity profitability and resource conservation Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut U.P. for consequently three years (2008–2011). On the basis three years of experimentations it was observed that in turmeric raised bed planting with retention of crop residue can be a potential production alternative for the semi-arid volcanic high lands. The extensive tillage with its associated high costs can be reduced by the use of permanent raised beds. Perhaps more important, its of great interest that permanent raised beds with partial residue retention for both crops take provided similar yields as with full retention. Since, there is an intense competition for residue use for fodder in many rainfed areas, especially by small and medium scale formers, it is encouraging that between 50% and 70% of the residue can be removed and with retention of the remaining portion on adequate benefit to the soil is provided. Permanent raised bed without residue retention, however is unsustainable practices leading to low crop performance and soil environmental degradation.