Yield, Economic Returns and Biomass Carbon of Neem-Legume Agroforestry in Semi-arid Tropics of Bundelkhand

Agroforestry has emerged as a sustainable strategy to address the climate variability challenges in semi-arid regions. This study assessed the performance of legume crops—lentil, chickpea, broad bean, and grass pea under neem (Azadirachta indica) based agroforestry systems in Bundelkhand, Central India. Field experiments over two cropping seasons evaluated crop yield, biomass production, harvest index, lentil equivalent yield, economic returns, and tree growth dynamics. Results indicated that neem association did not significantly reduce crop yields, with lentil and chickpea performing best. Neem + chickpea recorded the highest biological yield (5,029 kg/ha), while neem + lentil produced the maximum lentil equivalent yield (1,447 kg/ha). Broad bean consistently showed the lowest yield potential, underlining its unsuitability in semi-arid conditions. Economic analysis revealed that neem + lentil and neem + chickpea offered maximum monetary returns, comparable with sole cropping, thereby ensuring income security. Neem growth was positively influenced by legume intercropping, with neem + chickpea recording the highest biomass increment (12.48 Mg/ha) and carbon gain (6.24 Mg C/ha). These findings suggest that neem-based agroforestry with suitable legumes enhances crop productivity, improves farm profitability, and strengthens carbon sequestration, making it a viable option for climate-resilient agriculture in Bundelkhand and similar dryland regions.