cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) under semi-arid conditions. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with eight treatments and three replications. The treatments comprised different combinations of recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) with organic inputs including compost, vermicompost, and vermiwash. The results indicated that growth parameters, nodulation, yield attributes, and nutrient uptake were significantly influenced by integrated nutrient management practices. Among the treatments, T₆ (100% RDF + compost @ 5 t ha⁻¹) recorded the maximum plant growth, dry matter accumulation, and nodulation, indicating improved physiological performance. This treatment also produced superior yield attributes and resulted in the highest grain yield (1010.2 kg ha⁻¹), along with increased straw and biological yield. Enhanced nutrient uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium under T₆ suggests improved nutrient use efficiency and soil fertility status. However, economic analysis revealed that the highest benefit–cost ratio (2.62) was recorded under T₂ (100% RDF), indicating greater economic efficiency due to lower input cost. Thus, the study highlights that integrated application of RDF and compost is most effective for maximizing productivity, while sole RDF application ensures higher economic returns. These findings emphasize the importance of balancing agronomic performance and profitability for sustainable cowpea cultivation under semi-arid conditions.
