Book of Extended summaries ISDA

International Conference on Reimagining Rainfed Agro-ecosystems: Challenges &
Opportunities during 22-24, December 2022 at ICAR-CRIDA, Hyderabad
sorghum+ pigeon pea-desmanthus can produce 16000 kg of fresh fodder apart from grain
yield (Fig). A farmer with no animals would have more advantage with sorghum +
pigeonpea/guinea grass as the system will yield more net returns. However, farmers with
small ruminants could prefer sorghum+ pigeon pea-desmanthus, it was found to be the best
fodder-based cropping system as it meets the dry matter, energy and protein requirement of
more growing lambs for longer period of rearing. These two systems are also better in
providing green fodder for at least 8-9 months without any supplemental irrigation. Along
with that, we observed less soil loss, water loss (40-48% less), sediment loss (50-58% less)
and less pest and disease incidence in these systems due to diverse crops and higher number
of natural predators.
Conclusion
Perennial fodder based cropping system can improve the livelihood of rainfed farmers by
increasing the income from crop, livestock and fodder. These systems also improve the soil
health and reduce the soil and water losses. Diversity of crops reduces the pest and disease
incidence and thus helps in improving yield.
kg/ha
60000
40000
20000
0
6000
4000
2000
0
kg/ha
Grain SEY
FSEY
Sorghum grain (SEY) and Fodder Sorghum (FSEY) Equivalent yield (Averaged over years)
Ecosystem based approaches for climate change adaptation, ecosystem services, integrated farming system
models, Land degradation neutrality
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