Assessment of High Density Planting System in Cotton in rainfed Areas of Nalgonda District, Telangana, India

Abstract

High-density Planting System in cotton is one of the new technologyfor yield maximization in shallow soils of rainfed area. To assess the technology in Nalgonda District of Telangana State, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kampasagar, conducted On-Farm Trails (OFTs) over two consecutive years viz.,2023 and 2024 during Kharif season.  The technology was carried out in the adopted villages of KVK through OFT. In the new technology of cotton cultivation, i.e., High Density Planting System (HDPS) the spacing of 90 x 15 cm was followed and a growth regulator of mepiquat chloride @ 2 ml l-1 during 45 and 60 DAS. In farmers practice, the spacing of 90 X 60 cm was followed without application of any growth regulators. A yield increase of 27.5 percent was observed in HDPS system over farmers practice. Cost of cultivation in HDPS system was higher and on average Rs. 17063/- ha-1 was higher over farmers practice. The study revealed that the higher gross and net income was registered in HDPS system. The Benefit Cost (B:C)  ratio was increased to 2.14 by following HDPS system in cotton over farmers practice (1.78).