Straw return was effective in increasing carbon sequestration and grain production.
Straw return was effective in increasing grain yield and SYI value.
A minimum C input of 4.07 Mg ha−1 year−1 was required to maintain SOC level.
The optimal SYI value could reach 0.651 when C input reaches 10.51 Mg ha−1 year−1.
The MH–WH treatment is a sustainable practice for sustainable crop production.