Impact of green manuring preceding to rice crop on rice yield and cost of cultivation in Karimnagar district of Telangana state

Green manuring has emerged as an ecofriendly and sustainable agronomic practice that enhances soil fertility, improves crop productivity and reduces dependence on chemical inputs. This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of green manuring preceding to rice crop on rice yield and cost of cultivation in the Karimnagar district of Telangana State, a region characterized by intensive rice based cropping systems. In this context, Thirty Front line demonstrations were conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jammikunta, Karimnagar district, Telangana state from 2019-20 to 2021-22, using green manure crops such as Sesbania aculeata (Daincha), Crotalaria juncea (Sunhemp) incorporated into the soil prior to transplanting rice. The treatments were compared against conventional rice cultivation without green manuring. Results showed a notable improvement in plant height (114.6 cm), number of tillers (17.6), panicle length (22.9 cm) and grain yield (6665 kg/ha) in green manured treatments, compared to the control plots, which recorded 103.9 cm, 14.9 tillers, 19.1 cm and 6121 kg/ha respectively. Moreover, cost-benefit analysis revealed reduced input costs, especially in fertilizer usage and higher net returns, showcasing the economic viability of this practice. The study underscores the potential of green manuring as a low cost, environmentally sound technique to enhance rice productivity and profitability in the Karimnagar district. The findings recommend wider adoption of green manuring as part of integrated nutrient management strategies for sustainable rice farming in Telangana.