Effect of FYM, nitrogen and phosphorus levels on productivity and economics of Kharif Sorghum

A field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2024 at the Agronomy Farm, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, to evaluate the effect of farmyard manure (FYM), nitrogen, and phosphorus levels on the productivity and economics of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.). The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with twelve treatment combinations comprising two levels of FYM (5 and 10 t ha⁻¹), three levels of nitrogen (60, 80, and 100 kg ha⁻¹), and two levels of phosphorus (20 and 40 kg P₂O₅ ha⁻¹), replicated thrice. Results indicated that application of 10 t FYM ha⁻¹, 100 kg N ha⁻¹, and 40 kg P₂O₅ ha⁻¹ significantly improved grain yield, straw yield, and economic returns. The interaction between nitrogen and phosphorus was significant for grain and straw yield, indicating synergistic nutrient effects. The highest gross (₹1,34,326 ha⁻¹) and net realization (₹72,367 ha⁻¹) were recorded under the treatment combination of 10 t FYM ha⁻¹ + 100 kg N ha⁻¹ + 40 kg P₂O₅ ha⁻¹. However, the maximum benefit-cost ratio (2.38) was obtained with 5 t FYM ha⁻¹ + 100 kg N ha⁻¹ + 40 kg P₂O₅ ha⁻¹, reflecting greater economic efficiency at lower organic input levels. The study highlights the importance of integrated nutrient management for achieving higher productivity and profitability in kharif sorghum.