Productivity, economic analysis and changes in physico-chemical properties of soil as influenced by integrated rice (Oryza sativa)-based farming systems

A field experiment was conducted during the wet and dry seasons of 1996 to 1998 at Agricultural Research Station, Siruguppa, to study the changes in physico-chemical properties of soil under integrated rice (Oryza sativa L.)-based farming systems. The system consisted of components like cropping, fish, poultry, dairy and horticultural crops. The pooled data showed the maximum production in rice (fish)-rice (fish) with poultry (11,133 kg/ha) which was significantly superior to others. At the end of the third year rice (fish)-rice (fish) -poultry system gave the highest net return and benefit : cost ratio of Rs 57,687/ha/year and 2.73, respectively, followed by rice-rice with banana (Rs 43,105/ha/year and 2.60). The data indicated poor physical and chemical properties of soil under the rice monocropping system, while in crop rotation, an incorporation of green leaf manure or green manure, recycling of organic residues in the farming system approach improved the soil health.