Peer review

Labour and water scarcity in Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP) of India are driving researchers and farmers to find alternative management strategies that will increase water productivity and reduce labour requirement while maintaining or increasing land productivity. Data from a field experiment (2012 and 2013) conducted at participatory strategic research and learning platform for climate smart agriculture, Taraori, Karnal, Haryana, were used to compare the, effects of tillage practices, namely [Rice-wheat (CT), Rice-wheat (ZT)] and residue, water management, legume viz. [Farmer' practice with greengram, Improved practice with greengram, Farmer' practice without greengram and Improved practice with greengram] on irrigation water use and water productivity of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Irrigation scheduling treatments were tensiometer based on soil water tension from irrigation thresholds of 20 kPa at 15-20 cm soil depth and ponding/saturation (daily irrigation) to alternate (3-5 days intervals) was according to famers' areas. Results demonstrated that irrigation water saving in ZT DSR was higher than in CT PTR (29.7% during 2012 and 35.0% during 2013). The highest WPI (0.49 and 0.79 kg/m3) and WPI+R (0.37 and 0.48 kg/m3) were recorded under ZT DSR during both the rears, which were significantly higher than CT PTR. In the future, in addition to shifting to CA based improved practices, there was a need to explore in the traditional based rotation. For example, if labour and water continue to become scarcer, a ZT DSR could be a potential alternative to the CT PTR rotation. The WPI (30-42%) was recorded significantly higher under tensiometer based irrigation at 20 kPa and residues management with greengram than farmers' practice during both the years. In DSR culture, productivity may increase if appropriate levelling of lands is done. Early crop vigour, short stature and short duration may also improve WUE. It would be good if the capabilities of farmers to manage natural resources in sustainable manner are enhanced and rice productivity is increased through developing knowledge and technology of direct seeding by way of research and extension activities.

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