Economic Assessment of Canola (Gobhi Sarson) as Influenced by Sowing Dates and Bio-Fertilizer Levels in Dehradun Region
Résumé
Aims: The study aimed to assess the impact of different sowing dates and bio-fertilizer combinations on the yield and economic performance of canola (Brassica napus) under Dehradun agro-climatic conditions. Study Design: Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with 18 treatment combinations replicated thrice. Place and Duration of Study: The field experiment was conducted during Rabi season 2021–2022 at the Research Farm of Shivalik Institute of Professional Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. Methodology: Three sowing dates (S1: 23rd October, S2: 4th November, S3: 14th November) and six bio-fertilizer treatments (D1 to D6 including organic sulphur and inoculants like Azotobacter, PSB, and SSB) were tested. Yield parameters, cost of cultivation, gross income, net returns, and benefit-cost (B:C) ratio were evaluated. Results: The 4th November sowing (S2) recorded the highest grain yield (17.8 q/ha), net income (₹41,604/ha), and B:C ratio (1:2.19). Among bio-fertilizers, treatment D4 (Organic Sulphur + SSB) yielded the highest economic return (₹37,282/ha) and B:C ratio (1:1.98), followed closely by D5. The lowest economic performance was observed in the absolute control (D6). Conclusion: The combination of timely sowing (4th November) and sulphur solubilizing bio-fertilizers enhances both yield and profitability in canola cultivation. These findings advocate for integrated, eco-friendly agronomic practices in oilseed farming for sustainable productivity.