Enhancing Forage Efficiency: Insights From Cultivar, Nitrogen and Cutting Strategies in Pearl Millet

India's growing livestock sector faces a significant green and dry fodder deficit, making it essential to identify high-yielding, nutrient-rich feed sources. Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.), with its short growth cycle, high palatability and nutritional benefits, is a key fodder crop that can help bridge this gap. To determine the optimal practices for maximising yield, quality and sustainability, the study was conducted during the Kharif seasons of 2021 and 2022 in Pusa (Bihar) and Raipur (Chhattisgarh), assessing four forage pearl millet cultivars, two nitrogen levels and two cutting schedules. Results highlighted that the cultivar BAIF bajra-1 significantly outperformed others, producing higher green forage yield (GFY), dry matter yield (DMY), crude protein yield (CPY) and nutrient uptake (N, P, K). Furthermore, BAIF bajra-1 showed superior economic performance with higher net returns, benefit–cost ratios, energy indices and eco-efficiency. However, at Pusa, the performance of BAIF bajra-1 was on par with Moti bajra and TSFB 15-8. Applying nitrogen at 120 kg ha⁻¹ maximised yields, nutrient uptake and profitability, although it slightly reduced eco-efficiency and nitrogen use efficiency, indicating a balance between productivity and sustainability. Between the two- and three-cut schedules, no major differences were observed in GFY, DMY or CPY, but the two-cut schedule proved more profitable and energy-efficient. Specifically, a two-cut schedule with the first cut at 60 days after sowing and the second at 50% flowering emerged as the optimal strategy. The correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships among GFY, DMY and CPY (0.81–0.93) and their linkage with energy efficiencies like energy output (Eo) and net energy (En). Negative correlation of specific-energy (Es) with GFY (−0.56) and DMY (−0.48) was noted. Overall, BAIF bajra-1, coupled with 120 kg N ha⁻¹ and a two-cut schedule, emerged as an optimal strategy, addressing fodder demands with a sustainable, high-quality, enhanced energy efficiency and profitable forage solution for farmers. However, at Pusa, Moti bajra and TSFB 15-8 can be viable substitutes for BAIF bajra-1 under similar management practices.