ZenToks Publication

Chapter 3

Yield and economic assessment of Black Wheat and Paigambari varieties of Triticum aestivum L. under Natural Farming in Begusarai, Bihar

Abstract/Preface

Two Front Line Demonstrations were conducted during the Rabi season of 2024-25 in the Begusarai district of Bihar to evaluate the yield performance and economic efficiency of Black wheat and Paigambari wheat varieties under natural farming and conventional production systems across three villages. Under natural farming, Black wheat recorded a grain yield of 24.87 q ha−1 with a benefit cost (B:C) ratio of 7.57, compared to 25.69 q ha−1 and a B:C ratio of 6.32 under conventional practices. Paigambari wheat produced a grain yield of 26.13 q ha−1 with a B:C ratio of 5.41 under natural farming, while conventional management resulted in a grain yield of 26.73 q ha−1 and a B:C ratio of 4.53. However, natural farming led to a marginal reduction in grain yield for both varieties, it substantially enhanced economic efficiency due to lower input costs. Black wheat generated the highest economic returns owing to its higher market price. The demonstrations indicate that cultivation of high-value wheat varieties, particularly Black wheat, under natural farming systems can improve farm profitability while supporting sustainable, low-input wheat production in eastern India.