Energy efficiency and economic performance of organic and inorganic nutrient management strategies in irrigated foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.)

Efficient nutrient management is critical for improving the sustainability of millet-based production systems under irrigated conditions. However, foxtail millet yield is often low due to improper fertiliser use. Chemical fertilisers need more energy, while organic sources may give less yield, so their energy use and economic benefits need proper evaluation. To investigate further, a field experiment was conducted during summer (February - April) 2024 at SRM College of Agricultural Sciences, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadut to evaluate the energy efficiency and economic performance of organic and inorganic nutrient management practices in foxtail millet under irrigated condition. A study was laid out in split-plot design with three main plot treatments comprising 100% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF), 50% RDF, and farmyard manure (FYM @ 12.5 t/ha) and four subplot treatments involving soil-applied micronutrients, viz., Fe, Zn and B, and organic preparations like panchagavya, and jeevamrutham through foliar application. Energy inputs and outputs were quantified using standard energy coefficients, and indicators such as net energy, energy ratio, and energy productivity were estimated. Total energy input ranged from 18,825 to 47,502 MJ/ha, while output energy varied from 68,569 to 97,431 MJ/ha. FYM-based treatments recorded the highest energy ratios ranging between 3.23 to 4.18, and energy productivity due to lower external energy inputs. RDF-based treatments achieved comparatively higher yields and economic returns. The combination of 100% RDF with foliar micronutrients gave the highest net return and benefit–cost ratio, showing better profitability. While organic nutrients improved energy efficiency, integrated inorganic management achieved a better balance of yield, profit, and sustainability under irrigated conditions.