Comparative economics of different soybean based cropping systems in North-Eastern Karnataka.

The research study was conducted in Bidar and Kalaburagi Districts of Karnataka. To study the comparative economics of different soybean cropping systems. A sample size of 160 farmers was selected using multistage random sampling method. Field level data were elicited for the agricultural year 2013-14 through personal interview method. Soybean + Redgram, Soybean + Jowar, Soybean + Bajra, and sole Soybean were the major cropping systems identified. Study revealed that, the average age of the sample respondents was 43, 45, 41, 44 and 43 years, respectively in CS-I, CS-II, CS-III, CS-IV and overall cropping system. The literacy percentage was highest in CS-I followed by CS-IV, CS-II and CS-III respectively. The net returns realized in these major cropping systems were ₹54443.20, ₹ 34108.18, ₹ 21047.27 and ₹ 13503.06 respectively. The gross returns realized in CS-I was highest, as compared CS-II, CS-III and CS-IV respectively. Similarly, the net returns obtained in CS-I was found to be the highest followed by CS-II, CS-III and CS-IV respectively. Returns per rupee spent was found to be the highest in CS-I. Among the studied soybean based cropping systems, CS-I (soybean + redgram) and CS-II (soybean + jowar) were found to be the most profitable system under rainfed condition in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]