Vol. 9, Issue 1, Part K (2025)

Background: Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a crucial staple crop globally, particularly in developing countries like India, where it significantly contributes to food security and economic stability. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and economic feasibility of various weed management practices in wheat cultivation, given the substantial yield losses attributed to weeds.

Methods: the study was conducted during the rabi season of 2021-22 in a subtropical climate, this research utilized a randomized block design to assess twelve different treatments, including various herbicide combinations and manual weeding methods.

Results: Findings of the study indicated that weed-free plots yielded the highest grain and straw outputs, while specific herbicide combinations, such as Clodinafop + Metsulfuron, also demonstrated significant efficacy in weed suppression and yield enhancement. The economic analysis revealed that although weed-free management incurred the highest costs, herbicidal treatments provided better net returns and benefit-cost ratios, highlighting their potential for sustainable wheat production. This investigation underscores the necessity for integrated weed management strategies to optimize wheat yields and ensure economic viability, thereby supporting food security in the face of rising demand.