Integrated Nutrient Management Effects on Yield and Profitability of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana) in the North-Western Himalayas

Abstract

Aim: A field experiment was piloted to evaluate the agronomic efficiency and economic viability of finger millet (Eleusine coracana) under varying nutrient management systems, to identify sustainable practices for improving productivity and profitability in the region’s farming systems. Study Design: The experiment was performed using randomized block design. Place and Duration of Study: Current study was conducted at the experimental farm of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh (India) during kharif season of 2024. Methodology: Different combined/sole nutrient sources were alienated into nine treatments which were replicated thrice. Results: The application of N60P30K20 + FYM @ 5 t/ha + Azospirillum (T7) resulted in the highest plant height (115.7 cm) and effective tillers/m2 (169) which remained statistically at par with T6, having highest ear weight and thousand grain weight. The maximum total yield (grain + straw) (55.25 q/ha) was also achieved under T7.  Similar treatment performed best in terms of net return (76.26 ₹thousand/ha), in contrast the highest B:C ratio (2.12) was originated in T6. Regression analysis revealed effective tillers/m² and plant height had a significant positive impact on grain and straw yield and net returns responded strongly to yield irrespective of cultivation cost. Conclusion: Among the tested treatments, T7 and T6 offered the best balance between agronomic performance and economic returns, making both sustainable option for finger millet cultivation in the North-Western Himalayas vis-á-vis to farmers wellbeing.