Evaluation of integrated nutrient management and plant density on productivity and profitability of rice (Oryza sativa) under system of rice intensification in mid–hills of Himachal Pradesh

Agronomic feasibility and profitability of rice (Oryza sativa L.) under SRI, with three levels of each FYM (0, 10 and 20 t/ha) and NPK (0, 50 and 100% RDF) and two plant densities (11 and 25 hills/m2) were evaluated in a field experiment conducted during 2009 at the Research Farm of CSKHPKV, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. Significantly highest grain (4.99 t/ha) and straw (7.47t/ha) yields were recorded with the 20 t FYM/ha and application 100% RDF gave significantly highest grain (4.86 t/ha) and straw yield (7.29 t/ha) at plant density of 25 hills/m2. Significantly highest net returns (43,925) and higher B: C ratio (2.3) were obtained at 100% RDF. Plant density of 11 hills/m2 gave highest net returns (37962) and B: C ratio (2.24).