Studies on sustainable sugarcane initiative (SSI) technology in north eastern agro climate zone of Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted at North-eastern Agro Climatic Zone of Tamil Nadu to find out the influence two methods of sugarcane cultivation on cane productivity. The experiments were conducted in farmer’s holdings in hands with sugar factory during 2012 to 2014. Each experimental plot is large sized with more than 0.40 ha non- replicated with sub surface drip irrigation system. The results indicated higher plant height at harvest stage under SSI method (276cm) than conventional system (Sett) of sett planting (247cm).Study found that sugarcane yield was higher under SSI method (143 t ha-1) as compared to conventional method (126 t ha-1) in main crop. Likewise, SSI registered higher sugar yield (15.30 t ha-1) than conventional system (11.48 t ha-1). Total water consumption and water productivity of SSI method showed less water consumption of 1669 mm and more water productivity of 8.57 kg/m3 as compared to conventional system of planting (1787 mm and 7.04 kg/m3 respectively).SSI method of crop establishment also recorded Rs.33,100 as additional income than conventional method with a B: C ratio of in the main crop of 1.97 and 1.80 respectively. Similar trend was also noticed in sugarcane ratoon crop yield, water productivity and net profit.