Paddy residue and nitrogen effects on productivity and nutrient dynamics in rice‐based systems of Telangana

In recent years, rising paddy ( Oryza sativa L.) production in India has increased residue production, yet its sustainable utilization remains limited. In situ straw incorporation is an effective residue management practice, but its field‐scale applications on crop performance remain uncertain. Hence, this study was aimed at evaluate the influence of in situ straw incorporation and various nitrogen management options on productivity and nutrient dynamics in rice‐based cropping systems. A preliminary survey across three agro‐climatic zones of Telangana revealed that residue burning, use as cattle feed/sale, incorporation, and composting were the predominant practices with Garrett's scores of 65.4, 59.7, 47.2, and 27.6, respectively. Following survey results, a 2‐year field study was conducted in rice–rice and rice–maize ( Zea mays L.) cropping systems with various paddy straw (straw burning, straw incorporation, cutting, and removal) and nitrogen management options at 100%, 115%, and 130% RDN (recommended dose of nitrogen) Lower N rates were excluded to avoid N deficiency. Results revealed that in situ straw incorporation has significantly improved SPAD values (5% in rice, 4.6% in maize), dry matter accumulation (14.2% in rice, 6.6% in maize), returns net (12.6% in rice, 3.6% in maize) as compared to straw burning (control). Furthermore, in situ straw incorporation with 130% RDN enhanced grain yield, nitrogen uptake, and returns net compared to straw burning, which was statistically comparable with in situ straw incorporation with 115% RDN. Overall, in situ straw incorporation combined with optimized N management significantly enhanced crop productivity and N uptake in rice‐based systems of Telangana, indicating its potential for sustainable intensification.