Enhancing Production of Berseem through Integrated Crop Management Practices in Haryana

Background: Berseem plays an important role as fodder, in the health and nutrition of a large livestock population in India. The productivity of green fodder per unit area could be increased by adopting recommended scientific and sustainable packages and practices. Methods: Farmers’ participatory front line demonstrations on integrated crop management (ICM) practices and traditional method of sowing as farmers’ practice (FP) were conducted during Rabi (2016-17 to 2018-19) under CCS, HAU, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Fatehabad and Jhajjar, Haryana. Result: The study reveals that on an average 744 q/ha green fodder yield of berseem (var. HB 2) was recorded under ICM as compare to 659 q/ha in FP which was 12.9 per cent higher over that of the FP. The pooled value of extension gap, technology gap and technology index was to the tune of 85, 36 q/ha and 4.6 percent, respectively. The data on economic parameters reveals that a net return of Rs. 30441 per ha was recorded under ICM compare to Rs. 20065 per ha in FP. The benefit-cost (B:C) ratio was figured 1:1.50 and 1:1.33 in ICM and FP, respectively, suggesting its higher profitability and economic viability of the technology demonstrated. Cluster Front line demonstration also helped in replacement of local varieties with improved recommended varieties.