Farmers Can Grow These Crops With Sugarcane to Double Their Income

Key Highlights

• Sugarcane intercropping can double farmers income.

• Black gram gave up to 5.70 quintals per hectare.

• Extra income of ₹5,500 to ₹10,750 per hectare.

• Soil fertility improved due to nitrogen fixation.

• Scientifically tested and farmer-approved model.

Sugarcane is one of the main cash crops in Dehradun district and supports the livelihood of a large number of farmers. At present, around 900 to 1,000 hectares of land in the district is under sugarcane cultivation, and this area is increasing every year due to its good income potential. Agricultural experts now say that farmers can double or even increase their income further by adopting intercropping with sugarcane.

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KVK Study Highlights the Need for Intercropping

A study conducted by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Dhakrani, found that most farmers either do not practice intercropping or grow crops that offer very low profits. To solve this issue, KVK scientists recommended intercropping urad dal (black gram) with sugarcane as a profitable and practical solution.

Scientifically Proven Results From Field Trials

KVK scientists carried out four trials on one hectare of land, and the results were highly encouraging. Based on these findings, the technology was implemented on a larger scale across 163 hectares involving 227 farmers. Farmers were trained in modern farming practices, seed treatment, and proper crop management to ensure better results.

Support Provided Under ATMA Project

The intercropping initiative received financial and input support under the ATMA project. Farmers were provided with:

• 20 quintals of black gram seeds

• 7 quintals of Symbion bio-fertilizer

• 30 kg of Trichoderma

The improved variety Pant Black Gram-35, developed by GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, was used for cultivation.

Key Techniques Used in Sugarcane–Black Gram Intercropping

Several scientific practices were followed to ensure higher productivity:

• Seed treatment with Trichoderma @ 5 grams per kg of seed

• Spray of Endosulfan @ 2 ml per litre of water for pod borer control

• Balanced use of bio-fertilizers in the soil

• First irrigation after 30 days of sowing, followed by second and third irrigations at 10-day intervals

Farmers Earn More With Intercropping

The intercropping model delivered an average yield of 4.70 quintals of black gram per hectare. The highest production of 5.70 quintals per hectare was recorded by farmer Hardwari Lal from Pratitpura village. Farmers earned an additional income of ₹5,500 to ₹10,750 per hectare, with an income–expenditure ratio of 1:4.07. Many farmers also reported improved sugarcane yield along with extra income from black gram.

Benefits of Intercropping With Sugarcane

• Additional income: Pulse crops mature quickly and provide fast returns

• Improved soil fertility: Black gram fixes nitrogen in the soil

• Better land use: One field produces two crops at the same time

• Lower risk: Income is secured even if one crop performs poorly

How to Do Intercropping With Sugarcane

Black gram should be sown along with spring-planted sugarcane. Farmers should maintain a 2:1 or 3:2 row ratio, with one row of sugarcane and two rows of black gram. Black gram should be harvested before sugarcane grows tall.

Other suitable crops for intercropping with sugarcane include mung bean, maize, sorghum, onion, potato, and cucumber in spring, while garlic, peas, and kidney beans can be grown during autumn.

Intercropping Proves to Be a Profitable Farming Model

Intercropping with sugarcane has emerged as a highly effective method to increase farmers’ income. The success seen in Dehradun shows that by following scientific guidance and the right technology, farmers can boost earnings while also improving soil health and nutritional security. This model can serve as a strong example for sugarcane farmers across other regions of India.

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CMV360 Says

Intercropping with sugarcane has proven to be a smart and practical way to increase farm income. The Dehradun experience shows that growing black gram along with sugarcane not only provides additional earnings but also improves soil fertility and overall crop productivity. With scientific guidance, proper inputs, and timely management, farmers can reduce risk, use land efficiently, and move towards more sustainable and profitable farming.