2024, Vol. 7, Special Issue 5

author(s)
Thirupathi I, Rajeshwar M, Shivakrishna Kota, Nagaraju A, Sravanthi U and Sathish Kumar B

abstract
Across all districts in Telangana State, rice is the main crop that is widely grown, making up 26.62% of the total planted area during both the Kharif and Rabi seasons. Crops grown in the Mancherial area are mostly cotton, with rice coming in second. District yields are lower on average than state yields. A crucial ingredient that directly impacts crop yields and cultivation costs is fertilizer. Using the intended yield equation and soil test data, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Mancherial performed an on-farm trial in five different locations over the course of three years, in the kharif seasons of 2019, 2020 and 2021. The treatments consist of the farmer's practices, the RDF-120-60-40 NPK kg ha^-1 recommended fertilizer dosage, and STCR-based fertilizer recommendations with a 60 q ha^-1 production objective. The first soil samples that were taken and examined revealed that the soils had a low accessible nitrogen content, a high P content, and a medium K content. The amount of N, P, and K fertilizers added in accordance with the results of the first soil test and the target yield equation. The findings demonstrated that, during the course of the experiment, greater yields were noted in the STCR treatment, which was followed by farmer practice and RDF. When fertilizers are applied using the targeted yield equation and the STCR, yields can rise by up to 11.5% when compared to traditional farming methods. The usage of fertilizer dosages was decreased by the use of STCR-based treatments, saving money on inputs with good net returns and a favorable B:C ratio.