Productivity, nutrient balance and economics of kabuli chickpea (Cicer kabulium) as influenced by integrated nutrient management

Field experiments were conducted at Kota (Rajasthan) during winter seasons of 2005-06 and 2006-07 to evolve an integrated nutrient management strategy for kabuli chickpea. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 12-treatment combinations of levels of P (0, 12.9, 25.8 kg /ha), phosphate solubilising bacteria (control, PSB) and FYM (0, 5 tonne/ha) replicated 4 times. Conjunctive use of inorganic P @ 12.9 kg/ha + PSB + FYM had resulted in maximum number of pods/plant (102.6), bolder seeds (31.88 g) and higher seed yield (2.53 and 2.80 tonne/ha). It was in parity with 25.8 kg P/ha + PSB + FYM (2.42 and 2.96 tonne/ha) in 2005-06 and 2006- 07, respectively. Harvest index and N uptake followed similar trend. The P uptake increased with the application of P upto 25.8 kg /ha but was on par with 12.9 kg P/ha + PSB + FYM. Integrated use of inorganic P with PSB and FYM also improved N and P status of soil. The maximum net returns were obtained with 12.9 kg P/ha + PSB + FYM (Rs 53,200 /ha) during 2005-06 and with 25.8 kg P/ha + PSB + FYM (Rs 64,870/ha) during 2006-07. But highest B:C ratio was recorded under 12.9 kg P + PSB. Consequently for higher productivity, profitability and soil health kabuli chickpea should be fertilized with 12.9 kg P/ha in conjunction with 5 tonne/ha FYM and PSB inocula- tion.