Identification Of Factors Influencing Yield Gaps In Mustard, Potato And Rice In Some Selected Areas Of Bangladesh And Strategies To Minimize The Gaps

Abstract

On-farm trials funded by Krishi Gobeshona Foundation (KGF) were conducted at Shibganj(Bogra), Mithapukur (Rangpur), and Ulipur(Kurigram) upazilas to determine and minimize yield gaps in mustard, potato, boro, and T.Aman rice of Mustard/Potato-Boro-T.Aman rice cropping pattern during 2011-12. To conduct the trials, one bigha (1200 sq.m) land was divided into two- where trial plots received the recommended technology and farmers’ plots (control) traditional technology. The trials were carried out with mustard, boro, and T.Aman rice at Shibganj and potato, boro, and T.Aman at both Mithapukur, and Ulipur locations. Fertilizers were applied according to BARC Fertilizer Guide, 2005 and plant protection measures taken following IPM techniques in trial plots. Traditional practices were followed in farmers’ plots. Data on yield and yield components were taken and analyzed statistically using paired t-test. Gross return and gross margin were calculated based on production & variable costs and prevailing market price of the produces. The yield of mustard in trial plots was 49.7% (yield gap) higher than that in farmers’ plots. The yields of potato in trial plots were 37.66% and 33.96% (yield gap) higher over farmers’ plots at Mithapukur and Ulipur sites, respectively. Likewise, yields of boro rice at Shibganj, Mithapukur and Ulipur in trial plots were 16.67%, 22.03%, and 17.61% (yield gap) higher compared to those of farmers’ plots. At all three locations, yields of T.Aman in trial plots were also 17.37%, 21%, and 23% (yield gap) higher over farmers’ plots. In addition, gross return, gross margin, and BCR in trial plots were found higher than those of farmers’ plots. Results revealed that yield gaps varying from 16.67% to 49.7% exist in boro, T.Aman rice, potato and mustard. The gaps could be attributed to difference in the use of variety and management practices in fertilizers and pests between trial and farmers’ plots. The yield gaps might be minimized by using HYVs of crops and improved management practices, especially in fertilizers and pests at field level. It is, therefore, necessary to explore the scope to increase the yields of the crops by minimizing yield gaps using improved technologies. The support of extension agencies through demonstrations, field visits and monitoring is essential to minimize the yield gaps. Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 38(2): 227-240, June 2013 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v38i2.15886