Effect of organic farming on yield, quality and soil-fertility status under basmati rice (Oryza sativa)-wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system

A field experiment to explore the possibility of improving the productivity and sustainability of basmati rice (Oryza sativa L.) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.) through organic source was conducted at Karnal during 2004-05 to 2006-07. Rice productivity was at par under inorganic and organic fertilization where farmyard manure (FYM) application was 22.5 t/ha in rice and 20 t/ha or more in wheat. Rice grain-protein content (8.13-8.52%) was at par under all the treatments but the protein yield was significantly higher under inorganic compared to under organic source except under the highest dose (30 tlha in rice and 40 t/ha in wheat) of FYM. Wheat productivity was lower (30.5% on pooled basis) under organic than under inorganic fertilization even under the highest FYM dose. Protein content in wheat increased with increase in the dose of FYM; but the highest pro- tein content (1 1.24%) was recorded under inorganic fertilizer. FYM application for three years significantly im- proved the initial values of soil organic carbon (14.3%), available N (10.7%), P (5.4%) and K (2.6%). Systemis pro- ductivity in terms of rice-equivalent yield was 9.99 t/ha with inorganic fertiliser and 8.88 t/ha with FYM application (30 t/ha in rice and 40 t/ha in wheat). Net returns (Rs 74,170) and benefit : cost ratio (2.1) were significantly higher under inorganic fertilization.