Asian Research Journal of Agriculture

Effect of Different Shading Color on Growth and Yield Performance of (Black Ginger) Kaempferia parviflora Wall. ex Baker

Izlamira Roslan — 2024-04-23

A study was conducted to investigate the impact of different shading colors on the growth and yield performance of (black ginger) Kaempferia parviflora Wall. ex Baker. The experiment was conducted in a glasshouse at MARDI Jerangau, Terengganu, from September 2022 to May 2023. The experiment followed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The shade treatments consisted of non-shade (T1), green shade (T2), yellow shade (T3), and red shade (T4). The results revealed that the application of colored shading significantly enhanced both the growth and yield of K. parviflora. Notably, the growth performance at the 5-month after planting (MAP) stage was crucial for rhizome yield, with any decrease in plant height potentially leading to diminished rhizome weight measurements. Among the shading colors, green shade emerged as the most effective, boosting total rhizome weight compared to non-shaded conditions. Correlation analysis between yield components demonstrated a strong positive relationship between rhizome length and rhizome weight (0.894), followed by rhizome weight and root weight (0.835). In conclusion, the study highlights the beneficial effects of colored shading on the yield components of K. parviflora, emphasizing the potential for optimized cultivation practices to enhance crop productivity.

Utilization of Bumblebee in Crop Pollination

Gadhiya V. C. — 2024-03-11

Bumblebees play a vital role in pollination of plants due to their large size and hairiness hence are ideal for picking up and transferring pollen. They can vibrate (‘buzz’) flowers and have no communication system but can work efficiently in tunnels as they have a better sense of direction. They are 400 times more efficient than honeybees at any pollination chore and are capable of visiting 30 to 50 flowers per minute. They are non-swarming and less aggressive than honeybees. Bumblebee generally forages during the early morning (0530-0800h) and evening (1700-1900h) time. Bumblebees are better pollinators than honeybees in greenhouses and glass houses and they have a great potential to serve as supplemental pollinators in the cultivation of crops such as tomato, eggplant, cucumber, melon, strawberry, pumpkin, cherry, sweet pepper, etc. It improves the yield and quality parameters of the fruits. In India, efforts are being made at Solan to mass rear bumble bees and utilize them in pollination. A few private companies have attempted to introduce newer species of bumblebees in India. In the present era, the global population of bumblebees is declining due to injudicious use of pesticides, loss of natural colony and mechanization in agriculture and climatic effect.

Factors Affecting Utilization of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Agricultural Sector: A Case Study in Upper Brahmaputra Valley Zone of Assam, India

Romen Kalita — 2024-02-20

In a country like India agriculture is the major economic players in economic aspects, which is the great source of revenue is more than 50% of the population of India. The country’s economic sector is based on the agricultural activities that play a significant role in the national development. Of late, ICT plays a significant role in the development of agriculture. It is widely acknowledged that improved information flow benefits both individual businesses and the agriculture industry. Nonetheless, gathering and sharing information is frequently expensive and challenging. By using information technology (IT), it is possible to lower the cost of information dissemination while simultaneously providing more information to all stakeholders involved in the agriculture industry. But the part of agriculture to the economy as well as the economic condition of the farmers is not what they should have been in this era of technology in a state like Assam. The aim of this study is to find the utilization in agricultural sector in the upper Brahmaputra valley Zone of Assam. This paper tries to discuss the factors affecting utilization of ICT tools in agriculture by using Binary Logistics Regression Model. Apart from higher level of education (.252) and size of land holding (.003), other factors like age (-.076), extension contact (-.282) and participation in media (-3.554) are found to be negatively influenced in the knowledge of ICT in agriculture among the farmers in the study area. Organzing awareness and training programme may help the farmers to utilize ICT in agricultural sector.

Effects of Various Technological Interventions on Summer Moong (Vigna radiata L.)

Atul Shrivastava — 2024-02-22

The field demonstrations were laid out at 30 farmers (12.0 ha area) during 2018, 2019 and 2020 to examine the impact of various technological interventions on summer moong. In this intervention, PDM 139 variety of moong bean was sown by using seed drill during 10^th-20^th April of each year with 25 kg/ha seed rate and treated with Thiram @ 3 g/kg of seed and Rhizobium culture 10g/kg seed. Pendimethylene @ 1.5 kg/ha was applied for weed management, where as urea 27.5kg/ha and SSP of 250 kg/ha was applied as fertilizer doses. Farmers practice kept as check for comparing the impact of intervention on moong bean yield and economic returns. Results of the study revealed that, the crop yield was increased by 50.0, 43.9 and 44.0% under intervention over farmers practice during 2018, 2019 and 2020, respectively. Mean of the technology gap was 3.13 q/ha and mean extension gap was 2.16 q/ha. Whereas, technology index was observed 0.31 during the demonstrations. Economic returns showed significantly improved under intervention during all the years as compared to the farmers practice. B:C ratio was 1.88 under intervention during 2019, which was higher compared farmers practice in all the years.

Maximization of Productivity and Water Saving through Alternate Wetting and Drying Irrigation (AWDI) in Rice under Tamil Nadu Irrigated Agriculture Modernization Project (TN IAMP) Aliyar Sub Basin Farmers of Tamil Nadu, India

Ayyadurai P — 2024-02-28

TN IAMP-II Aliyar sub basin scheme operated by Agricultural College and Research Institute (TNAU), Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu state has conducted large-scale front-line demonstrations on Alternate Wetting and Drying Irrigation (AWDI) practice in transplanted paddy growing in 11 villages of Tiruvannamalai district at 100 farmer’s holdings during kharif season of 2019-20 and 2020-21. The data on productivity, economics and water saving in demonstrated plots were compared with Flood irrigation 1200 mm (Farmer practice). The demonstrated plot yield was 64.2 q / ha compared with farmer practice (51.7 q / ha). The yield increase was 24.3 per cent. The extension gap, technology gap and technology index were 12.6 q ha^-1, 5.8 q ha^-1 and 8.29 per cent, respectively. The higher gross return (Rs. 128,443 ha^-1), higher net return (Rs. 74,319ha^-1) and B: C (2.38) was observed in demonstrated plot compared to farmers’ practice plot (Flood irrigation). Higher yield and returns due to reduced cost of cultivation, higher grain yield, net returns and more water saving in AWDI (24.7%).Water depth of 5 cm was maintained in the demo plot (T2) over the farmer’s practice (T1) (Water depth 30.0 cm) and the field water level was measured by Field water Tube. Created awareness and motivated the farmers to adopt AWDI practices in TN IAMP Phase II Aliyar sub basin of Tiruvannamalai district.

Growth and Instability in Agriculture Production in Odisha, India

Manoj Kumar Das — 2024-04-16

The performance of agriculture sector in any economy is better understood through the analysis of growth and instability in agriculture production. It is evident that the growth of agriculture in Odisha is very erratic in nature and huge instability is there in agricultural production. Instability in agriculture affects the trend and pattern of production which creates risk in farmers’ ability to adopt new technologies. Therefore, this paper aims to study the growth and instability in agriculture production in Odisha where growth and instability on area, yield and production of twenty crops have been calculated. Instability in agriculture production is caused by various agricultural reforms, weather variation and price fluctuation. Therefore, in this study attempt has been made to analyse the contribution of agriculture and allied sector to GSVA in Odisha over the years, sectoral employment, and district wise crop intensity. To examine growth and instability in agriculture of twenty major crops, this study has undertaken decadal analysis by using secondary data. Total four decades i.e. 1970-80, 1980-90, 1990-00, 2000-10 and 2010-20 are considered. The results show that, agriculture sector is leading sector in providing employment and significantly contribute to GSDP in Odisha. However, the area under cultivation of all the crops area gradually decreasing due to the urbanization but the percentage of area under cereal cultivation is decreasing whereas percentage of area under pulses are increasing but the area under total food grains is decreasing showing farmers are switching towards non-food grain products. So far, the growth of production and yield of different crop areas shows erratic growth in agricultural crops, as evident from the high instability rate in the growth of different crops. The cropping intensity shows that it is lower than the national level and therefore the role of technology needs to be identified.

Influence of Growth Regulators Application on Seed Development and Maturation in Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.)

Vanitha C — 2024-02-28

The experiment was carried out at National Pulses Research Centre (NPRC), Vamban, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University to assess the effect of growth regulators foliar sprayon seed development and maturation in Pigeonpea VBN (Rg) 3. Plant growth regulators viz., GA₃(200 ppm) and chlormequat chloride(CCC) 200 ppm were sprayed at vegetative (65 DAS) and flowering stage (80 DAS). The plants without any foliar spraying treatment considered as control. When 50 percent of the plants in a population have reached bud initiation stage, the buds were tagged and collected at five days interval from 5^th day upto45^th days after initiation (DAI). The variation in pod colour, changes in pod length and weight, seed fresh and dry weight, moisture content, germination and seedling vigour were recorded at regular intervals of five days up to 45 days after flower initiation. The results revealed that the maximum pod length, fresh and dry weight of pod and seed, seed germination and seedling vigour was observed in pigeonpea at 30 days after floral initiation (DAI) in chlormequat chloride (CCC) 200 ppm foliar treatment. The control i.e. without any foliar treatment had attained the physiological maturity at 35 DAI by recording all the physiological parameters viz. maximum pod length, fresh and dry weight, seed germination and seedling vigour. In pigeonpea, application of CCC @ 200 ppm as foliar treatmentleadsto attain physiological maturity at 30 days after initiation of flowering (DAI) by recording the highest seed weight, germination and seedling dry weight over control.

Clinical, Pathological and Epidemiological Aspects of Cephalopina titillator Larval, Exciter in Camelus dromedaris from the Rafsanjan Region, Iran

Hamidreza Azizi — 2024-03-02

The camel nasal bot fly is an obligate parasite which its larvae causes nasopharyngeal myiasis and the 3rd generation of larvae may cause serious nasal mucosal damage. The present study was conducted on Camelus dromedaris to determine the clinical assessment, seasonal prevalence and also pathological adverse effect of Cephalopina titillator in Rafsanjan region (South east of Iran). Due to history and dental formula, camels were divided into four age groups: less than two years (62 cases), two to five years (86 cases), five to nine (42 cases) and more than nine years (10 cases), which positive cases confirmed in 12 (19.4%%), 31 (36%), 40 (95.2%) and 10 (100%) cases, respectively. The major clinical signs of naturally infected camel was categorized in three main parts; Respiratory signs, nervous behavior and general symptoms which the main ones were related to stridor and nasal discharge. Suspected larvae with average 14.83±4.35 was recovered from 93 infested camels and evaluated microscopically for determining the larval stage. Furthermore, the gross and histopathological findings were recorded by using tissue samples. These non sex related findings showed that with increasing the age, susceptibility to this specific parasite infestation increased as well (p<0.001). No significant seasonal changes were recorded, but the incidence rate was higher in March, April and September. Different larval stage were mostly found in nasal cavity, nasopharyngeal and laryngeal areas which was accompanied by local inflammation, regional edema and serosanguinous exudate. Microscopical findings were showed the epithelial damage along with lymphoid hyperplasia, accumulation of inflammatory cells and remnants of necrotic tissue. However, fibroblasts proliferation, connective tissue formation along with some degrees of atrophy and focal calcification were the significant findings of chronic infestation.

These findings indicate the presence of heavy larval infestation in camel of Rafsanjan region which imposes severe economic losses and affect their health, growth and related productions. Therefore, it is recommended to carry out the necessary measures for the biological control of the camel nasal bot fly.

A Comprehensive Mapping of the Coconut Value Chain Actors in Western Tamil Nadu, India

K. Kalidas — 2024-03-11

The coconut industry in Western Tamil Nadu, India, epitomizes the intricate interplay of actors and activities within the agricultural value chain. Despite India's prominent stature as the leading coconut producer globally, challenges persist, including price disparities and limited value addition. This study investigates the coconut value chain in Western Tamil Nadu, mapping its actors and activities to elucidate opportunities for enhancing efficiency and sustainability. Employing a multi-stage sampling technique, data were collected from 300 coconut farmers and various stakeholders. Six value chains were identified, encompassing domestic, processing, and export markets. Primary actors, including farmers, harvest contractors, commission agents, wholesalers, retailers, processors, farmer producer companies (FPCs), and exporters, were analyzed in terms of their roles and activities. Results highlight the significance of value chain mapping in understanding market dynamics and optimizing resource allocation. Channel III, facilitated by FPCs, emerged as a promising avenue for reducing costs and enhancing market efficiency. This study emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making and strategic interventions for fostering a sustainable and vibrant coconut industry in Western Tamil Nadu and beyond.

Analysis of the Extension and Technological Gaps in Rice–Wheat Production System in Chhattisgarh Plain of Madhya Pradesh, India

S. K. Rai — 2024-03-11

The present study was conducted under rice-wheat cropping system in Chhattisgarh Plain of Madhya Pradesh to find out the extension and technological gap in technological interventions under farmers FIRST project at College of Agriculture, Balaghat. The 60 demonstrations on farmers’ fields with a total of 24.0 ha area were selected under the farmer FIRST project. Prevailing farmer’s practices were treated as control for comparison with recommended practices. Results of two years’ data revealed that the rice crop average yield of demonstrated intervention was 41.35 q/ha over control (34.40 q/ha) with an increase of 20.19%, while in case wheat average yield was recorded 30.22 over the control 24.35 q/ha with an increase of 21.11%. The extension gap was observed 6.95 and 6.15 q/ha, while, the technology gap were 8.65 and 13.35 q/ha in rice and wheat, respectively. The technology index was 17.30% and 32.83% in rice and wheat, respectively.

Scale Construction to Measure the Attitude of Farmers towards Agricultural Diversification

Surendra Kumar Rai — 2024-03-14

Attitude plays an important role in persuasion of one’s behaviour in respect to a particular psychological object. The attitude of farmers’ may influence their decision to adopt different practices to diversify their farms. Therefore, the investigation was carried out to expand a reliable and suitable mechanism to measure the farmers’ attitude towards Agricultural Diversification in their areas. The “Likert’s summated rating approach” was followed for a step by step procedure of developing uniform attitude degree. A total 67 statements reflecting belief of the farmers towards agricultural diversification were collected and out of which, 50 statements were retained after editing. The statements were sent to eighty Judges to judge its proper relevancy. Based on the relevancy test of 50 statements, only 35 statements were selected. The 18 statements were retained after the‘t’ test where 11 were positive and 7 were negative statements. The reliability of the scale was confirmed by the use of split half method while validity was studied by content validity. The reliability coefficient was found to be 0.82 which showed the reliability of the scale. Therefore other academicians and researchers can be using this identical magnitude with or without modifications to measure attitude of farmers headed for Agricultural Diversification.

Analysis of Rainfall Trend in North Interior Karnataka (NIK) Meteorological Subdivision of Karnataka by Non-Parametric Methodologies

Kodandarama, S.R. — 2024-03-15

The present study analyzed the trend in the month-wise, seasonal and annual rainfall employing three non-parametric tests viz. Mann-Kendall (M-K), Modified Mann-Kendall (MM-K) tests and Sen’s slope estimator for North Interior Karnataka (NIK) meteorological subdivision of Karnataka using 60 years (1960-2019) rainfall data. The M-K test results revealed that there is no monotonic trend in all data sets which indicates that there may exist the influence of serial correlation in the rainfall data. The MM-K test was applied to rainfall data of the NIK subdivision, the result of the test revealed that January, February, March and August months have a monotonic increasing trend whereas April, May, July and September months have a monotonic decreasing trend whereas June, October, November and December have no monotonic trend in monthly rainfall data. The winter season has a monotonic increasing trend, monsoon and post-monsoon seasons have a monotonic decreasing trend, and the pre-monsoon season has no monotonic trend in seasonal rainfall data. The MM-K test statistic (Tau) value for the NIK (-0.12) subdivision was found to be significant and negative indicating that there is a monotonic decreasing trend. Larger negative Sen’s slope values for NIK (-1.40) subdivision indicate the high decreasing rate of change of rainfall for annual rainfall data. Therefore, to know the trend in rainfall data most accurately in the presence of outliers and serial correlation, the Modified Mann-Kendall (MM-K) test and Sen’s slope estimator are recommended instead of Mann-Kendall (M-K) and Sen’s slope estimator.

Field Performance of Sesame Varieties under Rainfed Ecosystem in Southern Tamil Nadu, India

Kathiravan M — 2024-03-16

In Pudukottai district, sesame is cultivated in 3,000 ha and farmers are predominantly growing very old sesame variety TMV 3. This variety is more susceptible to pest and diseases which leads to increased cultivation cost towards plant protection measures as well as reduced yield and income. To overcome this problem, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Pudukkottai conducted On Farm Testing (OFT) in sesame varieties for promoting the high yielding varieties. Fifteen farmers were selected in different locations of Thiruvarankulam block, Pudukkottai district in Tamil Nadu. Critical inputs of seeds of sesame varieties like TMV 7 and G.Til 10 were distributed to the farmers. The plant physiological and yield parametersviz., plant height (cm), No. of branches, No. of capsules/ branch, capsule length (cm), seeds per capsule, Yield (q/ha) and BC ratio were recorded. The results revealed that, Among the sesame varieties tested, TMV 7 was recorded the maximum plant height (125 cm), number of branches (6.6), number of capsules per plant (43.5), capsules length ( 3.3 cm), No of seeds per capsule ( 57) which resulting in the highest yield of 7.8 q/ha followed by sesame G.Til 10 which recorded more plant height (120 cm), number of branches (6.0), number of capsules per plant (38.2) capsules length ( 3.1 cm), No of seeds per capsule ( 51) and yield of 7.3 q/ha compared to farmers variety cultivating variety TMV 3 which registered the lowest plant physiological parameters and yield (6.4 q/ha). The maximum B:C ratio was recorded in sesame variety TMV 7 (3.12) followed by G.Til 10 ( 2.92) over the variety TMV 3 (2.84). From this trial, it was concluded that, farmers are satisfied with the sesame TMV 7 variety for cultivation due to its low pest and disease incidence, higher yield and BC ratio.

Evaluating the Climate Change Trends and Spatiotemporal Variations of Evapotranspiration: A Case Study in El-Beheira Governorate, Egypt

Randa S. Makar — 2024-03-22

Aims: Evapotranspiration (ET) is crucial for determining crop water requirements, while climate change and global warming are major concerns. Therefore, in this study, we aimed at evaluating the climate change trends and the spatiotemporal variations in ET in a selected area located in El-Beheira Governorate, Egypt, while accounting for potential land use/land cover (LULC) changes.

Methodology: We analyzed three Landsat images acquired in 1984, 2001, and 2020 to assess LULC changes in the study area. Climate change was studied from 1984 to 2021 using data from NASA's Prediction of Worldwide Energy Resource (POWER) project. We also used the Terra MODIS MOD16A3GF Version 6.1 ET product from 2000 to 2021 to evaluate the spatiotemporal variations of ET.

Results: LULC change detection showed that the unchanged agricultural area from 1984 to 2020 accounted for 29.3% of the study area and was used to evaluate the changes of ET. Evaluating climate change revealed that there was an increased trend in temperature, relative humidity (RH), and precipitation, while no change was observed in wind speed. Similarly, the anomalies changes of temperature, RH, and precipitation had an increasing trend while wind speed was constant. On the other hand, the yearly ET values calculated from 2000 to 2021 had an increasing trend. There was a moderate correlation between RH and precipitation, as well as between ET and precipitation.

Conclusion: The increased trends in climatic parameters such as temperature will eventually require changes in crop patterns to adjust to these changes and maintain a profitable yield. Furthermore, the increase in ET will result in an increase in crop water requirements, which is problematic, especially considering the limited water resources in Egypt.

Impact of Different Substrates on Growth and Yield of Schizophyllum commune Fr.

Varsha Kerketta — 2024-03-22

Schizophyllum communeFr. is an edible medicinal mushroom also known as white rot fungus that develops naturally on dead woods which belongs to the phylumBasidiomycota, order Agaricales, family Schizophyllaceae.To find out most suitable growing substrates, mushroom was cultivated on 6 locally available substrates including different saw dust i.e.Babool (Vachellianilotica),Bija (Petrocarpus marsupium),Sal (Shorea robusta),Sagwan (Tectona grandis) and different strawi.e. Paddy straw(PS) and Wheat straw(WS). Among the different substrates,on an average,WS took shortest time for mycelial run (6.50 days), longest time(8.62 days) taken by Bija (P. marsupium). Pinhead initiation was fastest (8.50 days) in WS while, Bija (P. marsupium)took more time period(10.62 days) for pinhead initiation. The Maximum yield was obtained from WS (148.37gm) with biological efficiency (29.6%) followed by PS(116.12 gm) with biological efficiency (23.2%). The lowest yield was obtained from saw dust of Bija (P. marsupium)(60.50gm) with biological efficiency (10.40%).There was significant difference in yield when supplement (wheat bran)was mixed with substrates, however there was no significant difference observed in mycelial run and pinhead initiation.

Cost and Income Structure of Organic and Conventional French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) Cultivation: A Case Study of Himachal Pradesh, India

Shaminder Kumar — 2024-03-26

The objective of this study was to investigate the cost and income structure of organic and conventional French bean cultivation in Solan district, Himachal Pradesh, in the 2018/ 2019 crop year. The sample included 80 farmers selected using a purposive sampling method, consisting of 40 organic and 40 conventional French bean growers. Survey questionnaires were used as the main instrument for data collection. Descriptive statistics and cost and income analysis were used for data analysis. The results indicate that the cost of production was higher, and output was lower under organic bean cultivation. Despite this, organic bean cultivation was more profitable than conventional farming, which was attributed to the higher prevailing market price for organic beans. Organic growers encounter numerous challenges and issues when cultivating and marketing of vegetables. Farmers seek a variety of aid from the government, business sector, and co-operative organizations to solve all of these challenges.

Economic Efficiency of Banana Production in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka, India

Arpita Krishna Naik — 2024-03-26

Aim: Banana cultivation holds significant agricultural importance, contributing substantially to global dietary staples. This study Examines the economic efficiency of banana production in Uttara Kannada district.

Sampling Design: Employed purposive and multistage sampling, the study focuses on Sirsi and Siddapur taluks, selecting 80 farmers through random sampling.

Methodology: The research examines resource utilization by employing the Cobb-Douglas production function and evaluate efficiency levels by Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA).

Results: Allocative efficiency in banana cultivation is apparent through positive MVP/MFC ratios for inputs like suckers (15.89), manure (1.91), fertilizers (7.21), machine labor (1.75), and propping material (6.66), indicating underutilization. Conversely, plant protection chemicals (-22.35) and human labor (-1.20) show negative ratios, signifying overutilization. The ratio of MVP to MFC was differed from unity indicating scope for reallocation of expenditure among various resources. Using Data Envelopment Analysis, individual farm technical and economic efficiency was assessed. Banana, Crop I had a mean technical efficiency of 70.30, while Crop II had 49.40. The results highlight room for improvement, especially in Crop II, emphasizing the need for better resource allocation. Major production constraints include labour scarcity, poor planting material, and pest issues. Marketing hurdles encompass price fluctuations, limited storage, and distant markets.

Conclusion: The study emphasizes the banana cultivation revealed significant impacts of resource utilization on yield, with suckers, fertilizers, and plant protection chemicals showing substantial effects. Allocative efficiency analysis indicated underutilization of resources, suggesting potential for yield improvement. However, farmers face challenges including labour scarcity, quality planting material, price fluctuations, and inadequate storage facilities in production and marketing.

Impact of Different Nutrient Management Strategies for Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium Uptake and Availability in Chilli (Capsicum annuum var. annuum L.)

Sheetal — 2024-03-30

A field investigation was carried out at the experimental farm of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, CSKHPKV, Bajaura (Kullu), Himachal Pradesh during kharif, 2022. The experiment was carried out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications comprising 12 treatment combinations of NPK fertilizers, biofertilizers (Azotobacter and PSB), organic and natural farming on chilli variety ‘Him Palam Mirch-2’. Different nutrient management practices significantly influenced NPK uptake and soil available N, P and K. The results revealed that treatment combination of 100% NPK + 10t vermicompost + Azotobacter + PSB recorded significantly the N (1.260%), P (0.156%) and K (1.387%) content in chilli stalk, N (1.870%), P (0.447%) and K (0.865%) content in chilli fruit, total uptake of N (132.34 kg ha^-1), P (26.32 kg ha^-1) and K (90.60 kg ha^-1) by chilli crop. At the end of the experiment, treatment combination of 100% NPK + 10t vermicompost + Azotobacter + PSB recorded maximum available N in the soil while maximum P and K was recorded in treatment combination of 100% NPK + 10t vermicompost + PSB. Natural farming practice recorded lowest soil available N, P, nutrient content and uptake while organic farming practice recorded lowest value of soil available. Therefore, it can be concluded that the combined application of NPK fertilizers and organic inputs coupled with biofertilizers proved the best for NPK uptake and soil available N, P and K.

Efficacy of Methyl Eugenol and Cuelure Traps for Monitoring of Cucurbit Fruit Fly (Bactrocera spp.) in different Doses in Pumpkin

Puneet Kumar — 2024-03-30

The present study on the “Efficacy of methyl eugenol and cue lure traps for monitoring of cucurbit fruit fly (Bactrocera spp.) in different doses in pumpkin” was conducted in the Department of Entomology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, during 2020-21.Among the 3 different doses tested, methyl eugenol rakshak trap with 1.5ml +2 ml (methyl eugenol +malathion 50 % E.C. were significantly superior in attracting highest number of fruit flies B. zonata and B. dorsalis with trap catches of 69.39 fruit flies /trap/week followed by 2ml +2ml doses (49.36 fruit flies/trap/week). 1ml + 2ml (methyl eugenol +malathion 50% E.C. performance was significantly lower to other doses (42.47 fruitflies/traps/week) and other three doses tested, cue lure rakshak trap with 2 ml + 2ml (cue lure + malathion 50% E.C) were significantly superior in attracting highest number of fruit flies B. cucurbitea and (19.92 fruit flies /trap/week) followed by 1.5 ml +2ml doses (13.69 fruit flies/trap/week). 1ml + 2ml (cue lure +malathion 50% E.C. 50 % E.C performance was significantly lower to other doses (7.42 fruitflies/traps/week).

Clonal Evaluation and Genetic Divergence Studies in Mulberry Genotypes

Manickavasagam Mithilasri — 2024-04-05

Aims: This study aims to evaluate the wood quality and leaf quality traits of selected mulberry clones and assess the genetic divergence among them, providing valuable insights for the development of superior genotypes with enhanced economic value for the sericulture and agroforestry sectors.

Study design: Twenty-one genetic resources of mulberry were collected from various regions in India and evaluated through clonal test in a Row Column Design to assess growth attributes and genetic divergence.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in India, and the systematic progeny test and clonal evaluation were carried out in Forest College and Research Institute, Mettupalayam during 2018-2022.

Methodology: The selected clones were evaluated for growth attributes such as plant height, diameter at breast height (DBH), volume, number of branches, leaf length, leaf width, petiole length, number of leaves, and leaf area. Genetic divergence was estimated using D2 statistics, and clustering of clones was performed using the 'GENRES' statistical package.

Results: The study identified several clones with significantly higher growth attributes, highlighting their potential for selection in breeding and cultivation programs. Variability and heritability studies indicated that volume exhibited the highest heritability, suggesting strong genetic control and potential for improvement.

Conclusion: Clones MI-0718, MI-0807, and MI-0845 showed superior growth performance and genetic divergence, indicating their suitability for further breeding and improvement programs. The study provides insights into the genetic variability of mulberry clones and emphasizes selecting superior clones for enhancing wood volume and overall productivity.

Do We Listen or Ignore Indigenous Practices? The Machobane Farming System - An Indigenous Farming Practice of Lesotho

Sissay B. Mekbib — 2024-04-06

Aim: To evaluate the adaptive capacity of the Machobane Farming System, an indigenous practice to improve soil fertility and maize productivity compared to other non-Machobane farming practices.

Study design: The study was conducted in four agroecological zones of Lesotho: Mountain, Foothills, low lands and Senqu river valley. Soil samples were collected at random from the non-Machobane farming practicing fields and Machobane farming practicing fields and the soil physicochemical and microbiological analyses were conducted to evaluate the soil quality. Structured and non-structured questionnaires were used to gather information from Focus Group Discussion (FGD) on the type of farming practices used and other demographic data.

Results and Discussion: The MfS were found to be less affected and resilient to climate change with multiple benefits such as moisture conservation, slow release of nutrients and cross migration of microorganisms to the intercropping plants in the field unlike other farming practicing fields. An increased number of soil fertility indicator microorganisms such as Bacillus spp and Nitrogen fixing bacteria were seen to have increased the production of food crops (P>0.05) almost all the year round. An intensive relay cropping of one acre would be sufficient to ensure food security for an average family of 5 members.

Conclusion: Currently, the Machobane Farming System (MfS) is adopted by many households in Lesotho using biochar and compost.

Effects of Integrated Crop Management Practices on Tomato Yield and Economics in Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh, India

V. Yugandhar — 2024-04-16

Integrated crop management (ICM) demonstrations were done in 20 farmers’ fields in the Krishi Vigyan Kendra operated mandals of Ananthapur and Satya Sai districts in Andhra Pradesh state during the Kharif seasons of 2022-23 and 2023-24. The objective was to demonstrate the influence of ICM to increase tomato yield at field level. According to the data, ICM practices produced a mean yield of 59.7 t/ha, which is 6.23% higher than farmers practice (56.2 t/ha). The increment in yield of tomato crop under ICM practices was due to use of improved hybrid of Arka Samrat coupled with ICM module developed by Dr YSR Horticultural University. ICM practices resulted in a higher economic benefit and adoption of ICM practices resulted in higher benefit-cost ratio (3.80) than the farmers practice with private hybrids (3.48). Tomato productivity per unit area increased by applying scientifically sound, long-term management practices. The study demonstrated that, ICM enhanced tomato yields. This can be used to influence farmers to adopt enhanced tomato production management technologies in the future.

Response of Upland New Rice for Africa (NERICA) to Nitrogen Fertilization in the Guinea Savannah Agro-ecological Zone

Martey Abraham — 2024-04-20

The trial was conducted during the cropping season of 2020 June to November on the upland field of the Savanna Agricultural Research Institute (SARI), at Nyankpala near Tamale in the Northern Region of Ghana. The objective was to establish the response of Upland New Rice for Africa (NERICA) to nitrogen fertilization in the Guinea Savannah Agroecological Zone. Two upland NERICAs were used. A 2×2×5 factorial experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) in three replications. The Phosphorus and Nitrogen fertilizers rates were 0, 60 kg P/ha and 0, 30, 60, and 120 kg N/ha respectively. There were significant differences (p< 0.05) in the effect of P and N levels on plant height, number of tillers, panicle weight, and straw weight. Combined application of 60kg P/ha and 60kg N/ha increased the grain yield of upland NERICAs. The upland NERICA in the savannah zone should get 60 kg N/ha in addition to 60 kg P/ha for the best grain production.

Assessment of Performance of Foliar Application of GA3 and NAA on Growth and Yield Attributes of Onion (Allium cepa. L) cv. Nashik Red (N-53)

Paratikshya Khadka — 2024-04-20

In order to ascertain the assessment of performance of foliar application of NAA and GA₃ on growth and yield attributes of Onion (Allium cepa. L). A field trial was conducted at the Horticultural Research Farm of Baba Farid Institute of Technology (BFIT), Dehradun, India, 2021–2022. Significant differences in results were observed. With nine treatments and three replications of each growth regulator—NAA and GA₃—at various levels (50, 100, 150, and 200 parts per million—the research was set up in a Randomized Complete block design. The superior growth attributes like maximum plant height (47.38 cm) at 45 DAT, (51.01 cm) at 60 DAT and (54.04 cm) at 90 DAT, maximum number of leaves per plant (6.32) at 45 DAT and (8.84) at 60 DAT were recorded from the application of NAA 150 PPM (T₃). The superior yield attributes like highest fresh weight of bulb per plant (60.12 gm), bulb polar distance (4.75 cm) and bulb equatorial distance (5.45 cm) were recorded from the application of GA₃ 100 PPM (T₆).

An Exploratory Study on Factors Influencing the Purchase Intention of Packaged Milk in Erode District, India

Venkatesa Palanichamy N — 2024-04-22

Consumption of unbranded milk leads to several problems in children and adults. Therefore, innovative packaging technologies is needed for the development of extended shelf life and value added foods and food products. The objective of the present study is to identify the factors influencing the purchase intention towards packaged milk. The study area is confined to Erode district because of its high population and high purchase of packaged milk. Primary data were collected by using a well-structured and pre tested questionnaire. An exploratory factor analysis was performed to identify the underlying factors of consumer intention towards packaged milk. From the analysis, it is found that, product quality, value addition and promotional activities like advertisement were the factors that influenced the buying intention of packaged milk.

Co-integration and Causality Analysis of “Castor” (Ricinus communis Oil) Markets in India

Venkatesa Palanichamy N — 2024-04-25

Castor (Ricinus communis L.) is a major industrial oilseed crop. Because of its numerous uses in the manufacturing of a wide range of industrial uses, castor oil has risen significantly in importance in the global economy. The study examined market integration in major Castor markets in India, including Dhanera, Patan, Kurnool, and Yemmiganur. The co-integration analysis conducted revealed a high level of market integration, as evidenced by the significant positive and negative values of weekly Castor prices across all markets. Unit root tests indicated that the markets were non-stationary, but became stationary when analyzed at the first difference. Further analysis using Johansen's tests identified three cointegrating equations among the markets. The results of the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) demonstrated long-term price influences between markets. Specifically, Dhanera was found to be influenced by its own price, as well as by prices in Patan and Yemmiganur. Patan, on the other hand, was influenced by its own price, as well as by prices in Dhanera and Yemmiganur. Additionally, Kurnool and Yemmiganur were influenced by prices in neighboring markets.

Impact of Raw Milk Quality on Dairy Products & Payment Systems

Yogeshkumar Vekariya — 2024-03-28

The trend of microbial quality of raw milk is affected by the seasonal variation in in milk production practices and ambient temperature with the season. A payment system, which includes testing for selected parameters, with subsequent rejection and/or penalties or bonuses, is considered functional to improving raw milk quality. In addition to the minimal legal requirements, milk may be graded (and paid) according to its “quality,” usually measured according to composition (fat, protein, lactose, other solids, free fatty acids), hygienic quality. Psychrotrophic microbes, particularly Pseudomonas spp., are found in the microbiota of chilled milk because they can grow at temperatures below their optimal growth temperature. Psychrotrophic counts ranging from 10⁵ to 10⁸ CFU/ml in refrigerated raw milk affect cheese quality, since the synthesized thermoresistant enzymes affect the nutritional value, sensory properties and texture. Therefore, stringent measures must be implemented throughout the dairy supply chain to ensure the microbial quality of raw milk is maintained at safe levels, thus safeguarding the integrity and safety of dairy products for consumers.

Renewable Horizons: Solar Power and Dairy Industry in India

Yogeshkumar Vekariya — 2024-04-03

Renewable energy is energy obtained from sources that are essentially inexhaustible such as wind power, solar power, geothermal energy, tidal power, bio-energy and hydropower. It is also known as non-conventional energy. Harnessing renewable energy offers numerous environmental benefits, including mitigating climate change, reducing air pollution, conserving natural resources, and enhancing energy security by diversifying energy sources. Solar resources are available in every country and both Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) and Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) technologies can be used to convert solar resource into electricity. SPV can use both direct and diffuse sunlight to generate power, while CSP relies on direct sunlight, restricting its deployment to areas with high Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI). Mandatory demand supported with higher subsidies for green technologies will positively attracts dairies towards use of solar energy. In many villages, power cut hinders the reception of milk from milk producers as electronic weighing system and milk testing instruments require uninterrupted power supply. solar-powered dairy operations offer resilience against power outages and fluctuating energy costs, empowering farmers with greater control over their operations. As the Indian dairy industry embraces solar power, it not only secures a greener future but also fosters economic growth and energy access in rural communities, marking a significant stride towards sustainability and self-sufficiency.

Nutritional Content of Underutilized Vegetable Crops: A Source for Nutritional Security and Human Health

Kumaresan Marappan — 2024-04-27

Vegetables are essential to a balanced diet and are the primary force behind the achievement of global nutritional security due to their presence of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Vegetable crops classified as underused are those that are neither widely traded nor farmed on a commercial basis. Underutilized crop species have the potential to boost the country's economy but have not received enough attention because of a decline in focus on their production, consumption, and utilization. An examination of the literature found that most underutilized crop species are nutritious, and some even have medicinal properties. Vegetables that are underutilized may be significant locally or regionally, but they are typically not valued or approved nationally. The plant species that are traditionally used for food, fiber, fodder, oil, or medicinal purposes are the underutilized vegetable crops. Nonetheless, such species have untapped potential to provide environmental benefits, economic production, nutrition, health, and food security. Using underused crops improves rural populations' health and contributes to the fight against malnutrition-related problems. Unused vegetables are a rich source of energy, fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins and minerals. These nutrients can help prevent and treat a number of illnesses, including hypertension, cancer, kwashiorkor, marasmus, night blindness, anemia, diabetes, and hidden hunger. Important underutilized vegetable crops include kale, broad beans, asparagus, amaranthus, basella, moringa, ivy gourds, globe artichokes, and others. India's soil and climate are ideal for growing a variety of underutilised vegetables. As a result, the Indian government has started to promote the underutilized vegetables. In conclusion, underutilized vegetable production can help address the shortage of per capita consumption availability and address nutritional issues while creating jobs and raising rural residents' incomes, all of which have the potential to boost the national economy.