Alternate tillage and crop-establishment techniques in rice (Oryza sativa)–wheat (Triticum aestivum) system for increased system productivity and profitability in eastern sub-Himalayan plains of India

This study was undertaken from the rainy season 2015 to winter 2016–17 at Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, West Bengal. The aim of arrive optimal tillage requirement in rice (Oryza sativa L.)–wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) system economize on energy, labour and time, work out production economics rice–wheat as a whole under various crop-establishment techniques. Unpuddled (UPTR) followed by zero (ZT) wheat recorded superior yield performances conventional tillage-based systems over years. Fuel reduced 86.93 51.85%, 66.28 45.67% 77.84 48.97% (direct seeding)–wheat (surface seeding), (UPTR)–wheat (bed planting)–wheat planting), respectively. Rice also maximum energy efficiency (12.15) productivity (0.94 kg/MJ) with lowest specific (31.67) which reflective better output. Despite lesser cost cultivation seeding) system, monetary returns well benefit: ratio were much this due poor crop stand owing high pre-monsoon monsoon shower. net (`33,888 `42,835/ha during 2015–16 respectively) (1.68 1.85 reflected its superiority other establishment