Effect of nitrogen levels and plant spacing on yield and economic returns of Sanjeevani rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Chhattisgarh conditions

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2024 at the Instructional Farm, Dau Kalyan Singh College of Agriculture and Research Station, Bhatapara (C.G.) to evaluate the effect of nitrogen levels and plant spacing on grain yield, straw yield, harvest index and economic returns of rice (Oryza sativa L.) variety Sanjeevani. The experiment was arranged in a split plot design with three replications, comprising three spacings (20 × 10 cm, 20 × 15 cm, and 15 × 10 cm) and four nitrogen levels (0, 60, 80, and 100 kg N ha⁻¹). Results indicated that spacing and nitrogen levels significantly influenced both yield and economic parameters. Among spacings, 20 × 15 cm recorded the highest grain yield (2786 kg ha⁻¹), straw yield (5616 kg ha⁻¹) and harvest index (33.2%). Nitrogen application at 60 kg N ha⁻¹ produced the highest grain yield (2670 kg ha⁻¹) and net returns (₹70,500 ha⁻¹) whereas, 100 kg N ha⁻¹ increased straw yield (6170 kg ha⁻¹) but reduced economic efficiency. The highest gross returns (₹1,17,059 ha⁻¹), net returns (₹76,404 ha⁻¹) and B:C ratio (2.88) were achieved under 20 × 15 cm spacing. The interaction effect of spacing and nitrogen was non-significant for most economic parameters, though S₂N₂ (20 × 15 cm + 60 kg N ha⁻¹) combination recorded the highest profitability. Adoption of this combination is recommended for maximizing yield and economic returns under Chhattisgarh conditions.