Intercropping maize and pigeonpea boosts yields and profits in rainfed areas.
Intercropping maize and pigeonpea in specific row ratios and population levels in Karnataka showed higher yields and profits compared to growing them separately. The best results were seen with a 4:2 row ratio and 100:50 population levels, resulting in the highest maize equivalent yield, net returns, and benefit-cost ratio. While intercropping reduced the yield of individual crops, the overall yield and income were still higher due to the combined effect of both crops.