Comparative Evaluation of Different Natural Farming System and Its Impact on the Yield of Great Millet (Sorghum bicolor L.)

Abstract

The most recent and popular trend of organic agriculture in Indian farming system is Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) that is derived from the traditional method of cultivation practices. ZBNF approach follow practices viz., Intercropping, green manure incorporation, crop rotation, composting and degradation of agro-wastes and biocontrol of pests and diseases. Field trial was conducted in two consecutive years, with seven treatment options in randomized block design for validation of different natural farming system such as ZBNF approach, Network Project on Organic Farming (NPOF) and Integrated Crop Management (ICM) practices. Sorghum intercropping with cowpea (1:1) and ZBNF practices involving the application of traditional organic biostimulants derived from Gir cow (Desi breed) such as Bijamrith + Ghanajeevamrith + Jeevamrith with mulching (Acchadana)(T4) resulted in higher benefit cost ratio of 3.78 and closely followed by sorghum intercropping with cowpea (1:1) and ZBNF practices (Bijamrith + Ghanajeevamrith + Jeevamrith) (T3). Significantly higher grain yield of sorghum (2405 kg ha-1) was recorded in Integrated crop management (ICM-II) practices involving 50 % organic manures + 50 % inorganic fertilizers with need based traditional organic pesticides such as Neemastra, Agniastra, Brahmastra. The findings of the field level validation of ZBNF practices on yield of sorghum intercropping with cowpea suggest that there is an assured initial yield impact when converting to ZBNF compared to organic or conventional systems.