Sustainable intensification of integrated application of NPK fertilizers, biofertilizers and farmyard manure: Impacts on soil health, nutrient dynamics, and profitability of baby corn (Zea mays L.)

Sustainable intensification of agriculture requires nutrient management strategies that not only maximize crop yields but also enhance functional soil health and improve nutrient-use efficiency. INM is a resource-efficient, soil-restorative, and economically viable strategy for sustainable intensification of crop. By improving soil fertility, nutrient dynamics, and farm profitability, integrated practices offer a robust alternative to fertilizer-dependent systems and directly support national goals of soil health management, climate-resilient agriculture, and sustainable food security. Baby corn is a short-duration and high-value crop, is increasingly recognized as a promising option for crop diversification and farmer profitability in India. However, its high nutrient demand and the widespread reliance on chemical fertilizers alone threaten soil fertility and long-term system sustainability. By improving soil fertility, nutrient dynamics, and farm profitability, integrated practices offer a robust alternative to fertilizer-dependent systems and directly support national goals of soil health management, climate-resilient agriculture, and sustainable food security. The results showed that integrated nutrient regimes significantly enhanced soil organic carbon, available N, P, and K outperforming fertilizer-alone and control treatments. The combination of (RDF @ 100% + FYM @ 7.5 t ha^-1 + Pseudomonas @ 100 %) recorded the highest baby corn yield and produced comparable yields, indicating potential for fertilizer reduction without yield penalties. Economic evaluation revealed maximum profitability under integrated practices, with gross returns of ₹1,68,350 ha^-1, net returns of ₹1,21,610 ha^-1, and a benefit-cost ratio of 3.60.