On-Farm Assessment of Halophilic Microbial Bio-Formulation on Productivity Of Mustard Crop in Sodic Soils Of Indo-Gangetic Plain

The impact of halophilic microbial bio-formulation on mustard crop productivity during Rabi, 2020-21 to 2022-23 under cluster front line demonstration (CFLD) on sodic soils of Hardoi was assessed. A total of 278 CFLDs on Integrated Crop Management (ICM) in mustard with salt tolerant variety CS-60 and the use of bio-formulation (Halo Mix) were undertaken in 47.0 ha across 43 villages of Bharawan, Benhadar and Sandila Blocks of Hardoi district. The salt-tolerant variety of mustard, CS-60 is specifically recommended for cultivation in saline soils with an electrical conductivity (EC) of up to 12.0 dSm⁻¹ and in alkali soils with a pH of up to 9.5. Based on three years data, the average extension gap, technology gap and technology index were 353.33 kg ha-1, 382.33 kg ha-1, and 15.72%, respectively. The economic analysis of demonstrations revealed the viability of enhanced technology, with a net return of 68575.67 Rs ha-1 and benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 2.79, compared to 52532 Rs ha-1 and 2.44 (BCR) in farmers practice.