Comparative Economic Analysis of Zero Budget Natural Farming and Nutrient Management Practices of Kharif Maize in Bundelkhand Region of Chitrakoot, India

Abstract

The present study investigates comparative economic analysis of zero budget natural farming and nutrient management practices of kharif maize in Bundelkhand region of chitrakoot, India. The experiment was conducted during Kharif 2023 and 2024 using a Randomized Block Design with thirteen treatments, including various combinations of ZBNF practices, organic inputs, and recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) with biofertilizers. The economic performance of each treatment was evaluated based on cost of cultivation, gross and net monetary returns, and the benefit-cost (B:C) ratio. Among all treatments, T8 (100% RDF + Azotobacter + PSB) proved most economically beneficial, achieving the highest net monetary return (Rs. 113,283 ha⁻¹) and B:C ratio (4.08), despite being third in gross returns. T9 (75% RDF + 25% FYM + Azotobacter + PSB) recorded the highest gross return (Rs. 159,651 ha⁻¹) but was second in net returns. Treatments like T6 (Vermicompost) and T7 (Poultry Manure) performed poorly in terms of economic viability. The findings suggest that while ZBNF reduces input costs significantly, integrated nutrient management with biofertilizers offers superior profitability and sustainability in maize cultivation.