ICAR (NAAS Rating 5.36 ) Approval No : ID-154 | ISSN No: 2229 -628X (Print) | eISSN - 2582-2683 (Online) | RNI No: UPENG/2006/22736 | UGC Approved Journal | Society Registration No: 131380 | Society ISO 9001 :2015 certified | Certification No. QMS/092020/17596 | PAN regn no. AABAD0614R | PFMS Regn: DKEBVS
Journal For The Year 2025 First Issue
Genetic Studies
An investigation into impact of heterosis and inbreeding depression on the fibre quality and oil content of allotetraploid cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)

In the present study, a total of four direct and diverse experimental crosses and their F2 were assessed according to the Compact Family Block Design during kharif 2022-23 at the Main Cotton Research Station, NAU, Navsari to estimate the heterosis, heterobeltiosis and inbreeding depression for fibre quality parameters and oil content in tetraploid cotton. For the fibre length, the cross III exhibited highest significant positive heterosis (11.36 %) and heterobeltiosis (11.18 %); for the fibre fineness, the cross I exhibited highest negative significant heterosis (-12.87 %) and heterobeltiosis (-3.26 %); for the fibre strength, the cross IV exhibited highest significant positive heterosis (4.59 %) and the cross II exhibited highest significant positive heterobeltiosis (1.30 %); and for oil content the cross IV exhibited highest significant positive heterosis (18.27 %) and heterobeltiosis (14.40 %). Besides these, the highest inbreeding depression for the trait viz., fibre length, fibre fineness, fibre strength and oil content were recorded by the cross III (22.11 %), cross IV (-4.43 %), cross IV (12.89 %) and cross I (18.37 %), respectively.

Key words: Cotton, heterosis, heterobeltiosis, inbreeding depression, fibre quality.

Rajesh J. Panchal1*, K.V. Vadodariya2 and Hardik R. Patel3

1Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Madhav University, Abu Road – 307 026, Rajasthan, India.

2Regional Cotton Research Station, Navsari Agricultural University, Bharuch – 392 012, Gujarat, India.

3BRS College, Bilpudi – 396 050, Gujarat, India.

Email: rajpanchal1993@yahoo.com

Genetic diversity analysis in some vegetable cowpea genotypes

The present research work comprising of 21 diverse genotypes of vegetable cowpea was carried out at the Post Graduate Research Farm of Centurion University, Odisha during the kharif season of 2022-23 to find out the extent of genetic divergence through D2 and Principal component analysis (PCA) studies. Collected germplasm were grouped into five non-overlapping clusters. Upon analysis, cluster I had the highest number of genotypes at 11, while cluster II had the second-highest number at 7. Remaining 3 were monogenotypic. Cluster I and V had the largest inter-cluster distance, followed by cluster I and II. Cluster number II exhibited highest mean values for most of the traits under study. So, all the genotypes which were categorized under clusters I, II and V can effectively be utilized for hybridization purpose as there is a chance of getting maximum heterosis in the resultant hybrids. Among the traits, plant height contributed maximum towards the total divergence. From the PCA studies it is observed that first Eigen root had maximum variation. First three principal component axes collectively interpreted 92.83 per cent variation.

Key words: Cowpea, genetic divergence, D2 analysis, principal component analysis.

Dipankar Barik, Subhrajyoti Chatterjee*, Pritismita Nayak and Sumit Acharya

Department of Horticulture, M S Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Alluri Nagar- 761211, Odisha, India.

Email: subhrarahul@gmail.com

Horticulture
Assessing the impact of different bio-stimulant dosages on growth and development of guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Sardar

The field experiment was conducted at the Instructional Farm, Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Jhalawar (Agriculture University, Kota) during 2020-21 to assess the impact of different bio-stimulant dosages on growth and development of guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Sardar. Nineteen treatments, including three bio-stimulants-Humic acid, Seaweed and Silicon applied through soil drenching, were examined in a triple-replication, randomized block design. The study revealed that bio-stimulants, particularly T12 (Humic acid 15 g + Seaweed 60 g), significantly enhanced various growth and development parameters of guava cv. Sardar. Plant height, canopy spread (E-W and N-S), rootstock and scion girth, leaf nutrient content (N P K), number of leaves per plant, relative water content and proline levels were among these metrics. The treatment T12 also showed favourable effects on the biological and physico-chemical characteristics of the soil. The results imply that some biostimulants, particularly the combination of seaweed and humic acid in T12, can be used as useful agronomic instruments to lessen the negative impacts of nutrient constraint on guava production. This study offers insightful information about how biostimulants could be used to maximize crop yield under difficult nutritional circumstances.

Key words: Bio-stimulants, growth, development, humic acid, seaweed, silicon, leaf nutrient content (N P K), relative water content, proline levels.

Jitendra Gurjar1* and Jitendra Singh2

1Department of Horticulture, SKRAU, Bikaner- 334 006, Rajasthan, India.

2Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Jhalawar- 326 023, (Agriculture University, Kota, Rajasthan), India.

Email: jitendragurja888@gmail.com

Influence of the plant growth regulators on the development of dragon fruit [Hylocereus costaricensis (Britton and Rose)] cutting shoots

An investigation was carried out at the Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, BBAU (A Central University), Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh during the year of 2020-21 to evaluate the performance of different IBA and NAA concentrations on rooting of Dragon fruit stem cuttings. Therefore, the stem cuttings were dipped in various concentrations of IBA and NAA solution, then the cuttings were planted in a polyethylene bag in a mixture of Sand: Soil: FYM. (2:1:1) and this experiment was carried out in Completely Randomized Block Design with three replicates. The result revealed that the highest stem length (28.9 cm), fresh weight of stem with roots (610 g), stem diameter (40.90 mm), newly emerged shoot length (20.33 mm), fresh weight of stem without roots (598.33 g) were recorded in the treatment T9 (IBA @ 3000 ppm+ NAA @ 100 ppm) at 120 day after planting followed by T11 (IBA @ 2000 ppm+ NAA @ 200 ppm). While, the lowest values were recorded in control T1 (25 cm, 601 g, 35.11 mm, 10.33 mm, 588 g) respectively.

Key words: Dragon fruit, IBA, NAA, stem cuttings, PGRs.

Sunita*1, M.L. Meena2, Shyam Kumar3, Bhag Chand Shivran 4, Udaybhan Nishad5 and Ashok Kumar6

1,5Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agricultural Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221 005, Uttar Pradesh, India.

2,Department of Horticulture, School of Agriculture Science and Technology, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University) Lucknow- 226 025, Uttar Pradesh, India.

3Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana- 141 004, Punjab, India.

4Division of Vegetable Science, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi- 110 012, India.

6Department of Horticulture, School of Agriculture and Allied Science, HNB Garhwal University (A Central University) Srinagar (Garhwal)- 246 174, Uttarakhand, India.

Email: bherysunita98@bhu.ac.in

Standardization of size of cutting and IBA concentrations on the multiplication of underutilized leafy vegetables of Assam

An experiment unfolded at the Experimental Farm in the Department of Horticulture, AAU, Jorhat during 2021-22 to analyse the effect of different concentrations of IBA viz., H1: distilled water, H2: 25 ppm, H3: 50 ppm and H4: 75 ppm on three different cutting sizes (N1: 1 node, N2: 3 nodes, N3: 5 nodes) across three underutilized leafy vegetables (Brahmi, Matikanduri, Madhusoleng). In nursery, the experiment (I) was put out in Factorial Randomised Block Design (FRBD) from which the best and the poorest treatment of each crop were planted in the main field for further studies on their growth. In the main field, the experiment (II) was laid out in Randomized Block Design with four replications. The interaction between cutting size and IBA concentration spotlighted N3H4 as the pinnacle treatment in Brahmi displaying superior rooting percentage, longest root length, root diameter, highest root fresh and dry weights, highest root number, and hastening new leaf appearance. In Matikanduri, N3H4 excelled in rooting percentage, root length, root diameter, fresh weight, and root number, whereas N3H3 caused the maximum root dry weight and quickest new leaf emergence. Madhusoleng exhibited optimal results with N3H4, showcasing the highest rooting percentage, longest root length, root diameter, root fresh and dry weights, root number, and minimum time to new leaf appearance. In the main field, Brahmi-survival percentage (99.50%), plant height (21 cm), plant spread (29.25 cm), number of branches (3.75), leaf number (21.25), Matikanduri– survival percentage (98.75%), plant height (40.45 cm), plant spread (68.95 cm), number of branches (38.25), leaf number (330.50), Madhusoleng– survival percentage (98.50%), plant height (82.00 cm), plant spread (102.25 cm), number of branches (31.00), leaf number (378.75) were found to be best in the same treatment combination of N3H4 with maximum BC ratio of 3.31, 4.46, and 5.80, respectively.

Key words: Cuttings, IBA, leafy vegetables, standardization, underutilized,

Rekibul Hoque1, Priyanka Boruah1, Manisha Kachari2*, Sailen Gogoi1, Ira Sarma1 and Sunita Dhar1

1Department of Horticulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat – 785 013, Assam, India.

2College of Horticulture & FSR, Nalbari – 781 306, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat – 785 013, Assam, India.

Email: manisha.kachari@gmail.com

Recent changes in thermal indices in Mango cv. Dashehari under subtropical climate

Systematic recording of changes in thermal indices at tree phenological stages is prerequisite to understand the impact of environmental factors on mango. Keeping this in view, latest information on growing degree day units, heliothermal and photothermal units were cumulated at flowering, fruit set, fruit development and maturity stages in mango cv Dashehari during growing season of 2021 and 2022. Recent data showed variability in environmental indicators during critical reproductive stages. Highest weekly mean maximum temperature of 39.50 and 44.21°C were recorded in 2021 and 2022 fruiting cycles while minimum temperature showed 1.29°C during 2022 and 3.79°C in 2021. During 2022, bright sunshine hours had maximum value of 15.59 h whereas in 2021, 10.7 h. During reproductive stage, weekly mean pan evaporation of 4.46 to 10.01 mm day-1 was recorded in 2021 fruiting cycle; in contrast, in the next season, 4.77 to 10.06 mm day-1 was observed. Weekly average growing degree day from January to June varied between 860.51 to 2347.91°Cd and 917.16 to 2597.30°Cd, respectively in 2021 and 2022 growth cycles. The heliothermal units had 3094.05 to 17727.54 and 3534.42 to 23219.79°Cdh with photothermal of 8932.92 to 32084.15 and 9517.23 to 35498.52 °Cdh, respectively in 2021 and 2022 fruiting seasons. The flowering stages experienced lower heat accumulation in 2021 as compared to 2022 fruiting seasons. It was observed that peanut and marble phase had around 884.48 to 1606.44°Cd GDD across fruiting seasons. Maturity period had 1655.41 to 2597.3°Cd GDD across seasons. Histographic distribution of these thermal indices at vegetative, flowering, fruit setting to maturity had indicated widespread distribution pattern of GDD, HTU and PTU across seasons. It was found that a 1500 to 1600°Cd GDD at frequency level of <5 per cent in 2021 marble stage while the same GDD at 6 per cent frequency level with higher 1600 to 1700°Cd class intervals at <2 per cent was noted in the next fruiting season. Such widespread distribution indicated the affect of climatic factors at each stage and season. Lower fruit production of 6 to 8 t ha-1 was accorded due to severe atmospheric aberration during the 2022 cropping cycle. Results suggested the impact of environmental factors on tree performances and thus resource conservation practices needs to be followed rigorously to attain optimum yield of mango at subtropics.

Key words: Thermal indices, mango, reproductive phase, environmental indicators, subtropics.

Tarun Adak and Naresh Babu*

ICAR- Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Rehmankhera, Lucknow- 226 101, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Email:  naresh.babu@icar.gov.in

Influence of berry thinning on yield, quality and biochemical changes in Crimson Seedless grapes

The research trial was conducted during 2023-2024 at the vineyard situated in ICAR-National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune. The berry thinning was performed at different berry developmental stages to prevent bunch compactness of Crimson Seedless grapes. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design with five treatments and five replications. Berry thinning efficiently reduced the bunch compactness and produced medium loose bunches with optimum yield. However, it did not significantly influence yield.  Early berry thinning at 4-6 mm berry stage led to increased berry size (17.04 mm) and improved quality parameters such as colour intensity (6.63 %), total phenolic content (1.17 mg 100 g-1) and anthocyanin (22.41 mg 100 g-1), while later thinning stages showed a diminishing effect. It was observed that thinning had advantage on producing quality grapes.

Key words: Berry thinning, Crimson Seedless, quality parameter, compactness, phenological stages.

P.B. Kakade1, R.G. Somkuwar2*, R.D. Nale3, J.K. Dhemre4 and P.K. Ausari5

1,3,4Department of Horticulture, PGI, MPKV, Rahuri- 413 722, Maharashtra, India.

2ICAR-National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune- 412 307, Maharashtra, India.

5Department of Horticulture, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Gwalior- 474 001, Madhya Pradesh, India.

Email: rgsgrapes@gmail.com

Chromatic Crescendo: Night light colours boost Chrysanthemum growth and bloom

This innovative study, conducted at the Research Farm, Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, from 2018 to 2019, investigated the effects of coloured LED night breaks on Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. growth and flowering. Ten diverse cultivars were subjected to red, green, and blue light treatments from mid-August to late October, followed by natural day length exposure. Our findings reveal a nuanced interplay between light colour and genotype, significantly influencing plant architecture, flowering dynamics, and pigment production. Red light emerged as a maestro of stem elongation, producing the tallest plants (mean height 100.97 cm), while blue light conducted a powerful performance in stem thickening (mean diameter 7.81 mm) and stomatal development (up to 54.66 stomata per mm²). Green light accelerated flowering, with bud appearance as early as 55.79 days in ‘Thai Chin Queen’. Vase life peaked at 17.57 days under red light for ‘Snow Ball’, while flower size reached 19.24 cm in ‘Snow Ball’ under blue light. Anthocyanin content was highest (2.19 mg g-1) in ‘Thai Chin Queen’ under blue light, and carotenoids peaked (97.18 mg g-1) in ‘Pusa Centenary’ under blue light. This research unveils the potential for tailored light recipes in chrysanthemum cultivation, promising enhanced control over growth, flowering, and quality traits. Our results pave the way for innovative, sustainable practices in ornamental horticulture, offering a spectrum of possibilities for precision floriculture.

Key words: Light spectra, LED, plant architecture, flowering, pigmentation, stomatal density.

Ranjit Singh, Dhawan Shweta Macchindra* and Madhu Bala

Department of Floriculture & Landscaping, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana – 141 004, Punjab, India.

Email: dhawanshweta96@gmail.com

Evaluation of training systems for growth, yield, photosynthetic activities and wine quality in Cabernet Sauvignon

The present study revealed the impact of different training systems on growth, yield, photosynthetic activities, and wine quality of Cabernet Sauvignon grapevines. Three training systems- (Mini Y-trellis, Vertical Shoot Positioned (VSP) and Kniffin System) were assessed over a three-year period (2018-19 to 2020-21) in a vineyard located at ICARNational Research Centre for Grapes, Pune. Results indicated significant differences among training systems in terms of growth, yield, and photosynthetic activity. Among three training system mini-Y trellis system had higher yield compared to Kniffin and VSP trellis system but wine quality was lower. Wine produced from Kniffin-trained vines exhibited superior quality attributes, including higher mallic acid, ethanol and improved sensory characteristics. The findings suggest that selecting an appropriate training system is crucial for optimizing vine performance and enhancing wine quality in Cabernet Sauvignon. This research provides valuable insights for viticulturists aiming to improve vineyard management practices and maximize the quality wine production.

Key words: Ethanol, fermentation, grape quality, sensory properties, wine grapes.

R.G. Somkuwar1*, Praveen Kumar Ausari2, Ajay Kumar Sharma1, Nilima Gobade3 and Pooja Sanjay Gharate4

1ICAR- National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune – 412 307, Maharashtra, India.

2Department of Horticulture, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Gwalior – 474 001, Madhya Pradesh, India.

3ICAR- National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune – 412 307, Maharashtra, India.

4VNMKV, Parbhani – 431 402, Maharashtra, India.

Email: rgsgrapes@gmail.com

Response of different types of mulching materials on growth, yield, weed and disease incidence of capsicum under high altitude rainfed agro-climatic conditions

Capsicum (Capsicum annum L.) commonly known as Bell pepper or Sweet pepper belongs to Solanaceae family and is native to Mexico. Sweet peppers differ from hot peppers in shape and size of the fruits, capsaicin content and usage. Sweet pepper fruits are a rich source of vitamin C, polyphones, chlorophylls, carotenoids, sugars, magnesium, calcium, potassium, phosphorus and iron. Covering or mulching the soil surface can reduce weed problems by preventing weed seed germination or by suppressing the growth of emerging seedlings. Mulch is a material that spread on the surface of soil for conserving moisture, reducing weed infestation on the surface of soil and near vegetation. It also reduces pest and disease incidence in crops.  Keeping in view the nutritional as well as economic importance of capsicum, an experiment on “Effect of different types of mulching materials on growth, yield, weed and disease incidence of capsicum under high altitude rainfed agro-climatic conditions was carried out at experimental field of Mountain Agriculture Research & Extension Station Gurez, SKUAST-K during Kharif 2020 with six treatments (Control- Un-mulched, Black polyethylene, Transparent polyethylene, White polyethylene, Forest litter and Grass to find out the response of mulching on growth, yield, weed and disease incidence of capsicum under high altitude rainfed agro-climatic conditions. Among the treatments studied, significantly highest plant height (52.00 cm), number of branches per plant (8.00), number of fruits per plant (18.00), yield per hectare (20.60 tonnes), weed incidence (4.66 %) and disease incidence (5%) were noticed with black polyethylene mulch.

Key words: Capsicum, disease incidence, high altitude, mulch, black plastic mulch, weed.

Feroz Ahmad Parry1, Amjad Masood2 and Malik Asif Aziz3*

1Division of Horticulture, FOA, Wadura Sopore   SKUAST- Kashmir- 190 025, India.

2Division of Agronomy, FOA, Wadura Sopore   SKUAST- Kashmir- 190 025, India.

3Division of Basic Sciences, FOA, Wadura Sopore   SKUAST- Kashmir- 190 025, India.

Email: asifmalik@skuastkashmir.ac.in; drasif_skuast@yahoo.com

Crop Science
Assessment of finger millet germplasm in relation to nutritional perspective

Finger millets serve as a major food in resource-poor countries of Asia and Africa by providing 75% of total calorie intake next to fine cereal grains and gluten-free cereal products. Finger millet an ideal crop for use as a staple food and for famine reserve. The crop has dual importance as source of food grain as well as straw for fodder. Thirty one finger millet germplasm with four checks were obtained from AICRP on Small Millets, Zonal Agricultural Research Station, Kolhapur and used in this investigation. Proximate composition and mineral content analyses revealed significant variations in crude protein (6.23-7.76%), crude fiber (2.30-3.55%), ash (1.83-2.77%), calcium content (273-383 mg 100 g-1), magnesium content (142-193 mg 100 g-1), and zinc content (2.13-2.98 mg 100 g-1). Highest iron content was observed in KFMG 2266 with 4.33 mg 100 g-1 and highest phosphorus content was recorded in KFMG 2261 with 268 mg 100 g-1. The germplasm lines viz., KFMG 2236, KFMG 2272, KFMG 2270 and KFMG 2233 were found superior for ash, crude protein, crude fiber and low-fat contents. In case of mineral composition, the germplasm KFMG 2232, KFMG 2233, KFMG 2266 and KFMG 2274 recorded maximum mineral content which are good for health perspective. Out of 35 finger millet germplasm studied KFMG 2236, KFMG 2272, KFMG 2270, KFMG 2232, KFMG 2233 and KFMG 2266 showed overall superiority for nutritional and health perspective.

Key words: Finger millet, nutritional content, mineral, proximate composition, germplasm.

S.B. Ghogare, U.S. Dalvi*, Y.G. Ban, P.K. Lokhande and A.A. Kale

Department of Biochemistry, Post Graduate Institute, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri – 413 722, Maharashtra, India.

Email: usdalvi2008@gmail.com

The effect of different sowing dates on yield and yield components of Sesame (Sesame indicum L.) varieties at Gambella, south-west Ethiopia

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is a major oil crop farmed in many parts of the world. Sesame yields are quite low due to inadequate management practices and planting after the optimal period of sowing. One of the most serious issues in global sesame production is leaf blight disease, which can arise in epidemics. Long periods of damp and humid weather promote the disease. As a result, determining the optimal planting date may aid in the resolution of these issues. A field experiment was carried out in Itang special woreda to explore the effects of different sowing dates on sesame yield and yield components, as well as to find the best yielding sesame variety. A factorial combination of four sowing dates (2nd June, 17th June, 2nd July, and 17th July) was set up in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The data analysis demonstrated a significant interaction impact (p0.01) between sowing dates and varieties on plant height, number of branches per plant, number of capsules per branch, number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsule, thousand seeds weight, and seed yield. Sowing dates had a significant impact on seed oil content, days to flowering, and days to maturity (p0.05). However, cultivars did not have a significant impact on these factors. The Abasena and Adi sesame cultivars produced the maximum plant heights (99.8 and 96.2 cm, respectively) during the early June sowing season. The above-mentioned varieties produced the most branches per plant (6.6 and 5.6) when planted on June 17th, respectively. The maximum number of capsules per branch (6.3 and 5.8) and capsules per plant (44.6 and 41) were observed on June 17th from the Abasena and Adi sesame varieties, respectively. According to the current findings, the largest number of seeds per capsule (62 and 51) was acquired on June 17th, while the lowest number of seeds per capsule (28 and 26) was achieved on July 17th planting. Both kinds produced their highest yields (769 and 702 kg ha-1) from June 17th planting. In conclusion, the 17th of June was the best sowing date for sesame yield and yield components in the research area. To arrive at a reliable conclusion, additional study should be conducted across multiple places and seasons.

Key words: Abasena, Adi, sesame, sowing date.

Kalkidan Shiferaw Abebe, Mesfin Kebede and John Barnabas*

Department of Plant Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resource, Gambella University, Gambella P.O. Box: 126, Ethiopia.

Email: johnbarnabas@gmail.com

Entomology
Toxicity and histological architecture of Semecarpus anacardium kernel extract on the foregut of Heliothis armigera

The efficacy of Semecarpus anacardium Linn. kernel extract in chloroform as an antifeedant and stomach poison agent was assessed against Heliothis armigera (Hubner) early fourth instars. Larvae that were fed with food containing different doses of extract showed antifeedant, toxic effects and decreased consumption. The foregut histopathological architecture of larvae fed with S. anacardium kernel extract in chloroform at concentration equal to LD50 value and after 24 and 96 hours of treatment, demonstrates substantial injury to the epithelium layer, including vacuolization in some areas, gut tissue shrinkage, and peritrophic membrane disruption, which leads to the degeneration of goblet, regenerative, and epithelial cells. The height of the columnar epithelium and diameter of lumen were also reduced after 24 hours of exposure. These alterations in the gut had a detrimental effect on the larvae’s ability to digest and absorb food, resulting to a nutritional deficit that may have stunted their development. The findings of this study indicate that S. anacardium kernel extracts in chloroform have a significant stomach poisoning capability against H. armigera larvae, suggesting that this approach could be investigated as an environmentally safe method of integrated pest management.

Key words: Semecarpus anacardium, Heliothis armigera, epithelial lining, vacuolization, toxicity, mortality.

Chetankumar Sharma1*, Nilesh Jawalkar2 and Geeta Patil3

1Department of Zoology, Arts, Commerce and Science College, Bodwad- 425 310, (Dist. Jalgaon), Maharashtra, India.

2Department of Zoology, VPM’s B. N. Bandodkar College of Science, Chendani Bunder Road, Thane- 400 601, Maharashtra, India.

3Department of Botany, Arts, Commerce and Science College, Bodwad – 425 310, (Dist. Jalgaon), Maharashtra, India.

Email: cssharmachetan@gmail.com

Impact of weather parameters and planting dates on the population dynamics of key insect pests and natural enemies in onion cultivation

This study aimed to explore the relationship between weather parameters and the dynamics of insect pests and natural enemies in rabi onion cultivation. Significant correlations were observed for Onion thrips Thrips tabaci Lindeman, tobacco caterpillar Spodoptera litura (Fab.), and cricket Gryllus campestris (Linn.) populations with maximum temperature (0.829, 0.70, and 0.56, respectively). Thrips tabaci exhibited a significant and negative correlation with morning relative humidity, while both T. tabaci and S. litura showed negative correlations with evening relative humidity. The cricket population demonstrated a significant and positive correlation with minimum temperature, rainfall, and wind speed. No significant correlation was found between different weather parameters and the populations of natural enemies. Further, our investigation on the temporal dynamics of thrips populations corresponding to each transplanting date revealed that the first transplanting recorded an incidence of 16.11 thrips per plant, followed by 19.91 thrips per plant for the second transplanting and 22.91 thrips per plant for the third transplanting.

Key words: Seasonal incidence, Thrips tabaci, Spodoptera litura, Gryllus campestris, Coccinella transversalis, correlations, temporal dynamics.

Sai Siva1, J.S. Pavan2, K.S. Ishwarya Lakshmi2 and C.N. Rajarushi2*

1Department of Entomology, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur- 492 012, Chhattisgarh, India.

2Division of Entomology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi- 110 012, India.

Email: chavarajarushi@gmail.com

Field-efficacy of novel-insecticides against fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda in maize

The present investigation was conducted during kharif 2022 in Randomized block design with three replications at the experimental farm of Baba Raghav Das Post Graduate College, Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, India. The evaluation of efficacy of newer molecules of insecticides (i.e., Lambda cyhalothrin 7.5% SC @ 2 ml l-1, Dr neem 5% @ 5 ml l-1, Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 0.20 ml l-1, Spinetoram 11.7 % SC @ 0.25 ml l-1, Fipronil 0.3% GR @ 100 g 2 kg-1 sand, Carbofuran 3% CG @ 200 g 2 kg-1 sand) was performed over the Vivek maize hybrid-53. Per cent leaf damage and per cent plant damages were observed after application of insecticides. The results on overall performance of insecticides revealed that Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 0.20 ml l-1 and Fipronil 0.3% GR @ 100 g 2 kg-1 sand were found superior against leaf and plant damages of maize, respectively. Also, all the insecticides including one neem-based botanical (Dr. Neem) were significantly effective over control check.

Key words: Maize, fall armyworm, insecticides, Chlorantraniliprole, fipronil, plant damage.

Akhileshwar Vishwakarma*, Rajnish Kumar, Ajeet Kumar Singh, Buts Kumar Gourav and Pratiksha Dwivedi

Department of Entomology, Baba Raghav Das Post Graduate College, Deoria- 274 001, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Email: iakrdeos@gmail.com

Species diversity of coccinellids in agricultural and horticultural crop ecosystems of Pusa, Bihar, India

The current research paper coveys the species diversity, abundance, evenness and distribution of various species of coccinellid beetles in agriculture and horticulture crop ecosystems. The study was conducted in the farm fields of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Bihar, from July-2022 to March 2023. The identification of these coccinellid beetles reveals that a total of 11 different species were affiliated to four sub families viz.,Coccinellinae, Chilocorinae, Epilachninae and Scymninae. Out of four subfamilies, Coccinellinae (63.63%) represented the highest of the total species followed by Chilocorinae (18.18%). Among the species, Coccinella septempunctata Linnaeus was active in both crop ecosystems indicating a wide adaptability representing 24.55 per cent of the total species collected, which was followed by Micrapsis yasumatsui (19.25%). Diversity status of coccinellids in both crop ecosystems by computing evenness, Simpson index and Shannon index values concluded that coccinellidae was the most diverse in both crop ecosystems.

Key words: Agriculture, horticulture, ecosystems, coccinellids, dominance, species diversity.

Ramya1, Anil Kumar2*, Vishwajeet1 and Nagendra Kumar1

1Department of Entomology, PGCA, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur- 848 125, Bihar, India.

2Department of Entomology, Sugarcane Research Institute, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur- 848 125, Bihar, India.

Email: anil.kumar@rpcau.ac.in

Management of bark eating caterpillar, Indarbela obliquifasciata in cocoa

Bark eating caterpillar is now-a-days becoming one of the emerging lepidopteran pests of cocoa in Andhra Pradesh. The development of effective control strategies targeting Bark eating caterpillar, (Indarbela sp.) represents an emerging challenge due to the concealed nature of the pest. Use of botanicals, entomopathogens and green chemistry insecticides are considered a promising option in Integrated Pest Management strategies as an alternative to conventional insecticides. Results revealed that the Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (0.3 ml l-1) and Lamda cyhalothrin 5% EC (0.5 ml l-1), Napthalene balls powder, injection of Palm oil, Castor oil and Neem oil were more effective (as active holes became inactive i.e., frass ribbon not observed after treatment) than entomophatogens viz., Metarhizium anisopliae and Beauveria bassiana for the management of Bark eating caterpillar.

Key words: Indarbela, cocoa, Metarrhizium, chlorantraniliprole, neem oil.

Anoosha1*, N.B.V. Chalapathi Rao1, V. Govardhan Rao1, B Neeraja1, A Kireeti1 and L. Naram Naidu2

1Dr. YSRHU-Horticultural Research Station, Ambajipeta-533 214, Dr. B R Ambedkar Konaseema District, Andhra Pradesh, India.

2Dr. YSR Horticultural University, Venkataramannagudem- 534 101, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Email: anooshavadde@gmail.com

Eco-friendly management of pseudostem weevil, Odoiporus longicollis (Oliver) in banana

An investigation on environment friendly management against pseudostem weevil, [Odoiporus longicollis (Oliver)] in banana was carried out during year 2021-22 at farmers’ field in Siyod village of Surat district with ratoon crop and tissue culture plants. Though standard check and farmer practice were found effective, but among biopesticides and botanicals, stem injection with Azadirachtin 10000 ppm @ 4.0 ml l-1 was superior and minimized the plant damage, holes on pseudostem and pest population of pseudostem weevil as well as exhibited the higher fruit yield and incremental cost benefit ratio. After that, swabbing of Azadiractin 10000 ppm @ 2.5 ml l-1 and spraying of Beauveria bassiana (2 x 108 CFU g-1) @ 4.0 g l-1 + pseudostem trapping also proved their effectiveness than other treatments. These three treatments also exhibited higher plant height, pseudostem girth, hands per bunch and fingers per bunch than other biopesticides and botanicals. The ratoon crop plantation was found more susceptible than tissue culture plantation.

Key words: Eco-friendly, pseudostem weevil, Odoiporus longicollis, banana.

Ravi V. Korat1, K.D. Bisane2* and P.K. Modi2

1Department of Entomology, N. M. College of Agriculture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari – 396 450, Gujarat, India.

2ICAR-AICRP on Fruits, Fruit Research Station, Navsari Agricultural University, Gandevi – 396 360, Gujarat, India.

Email: kdbisane@yahoo.co.in; kdbisane.frsg@nau.in

Field evaluation of biocontrol agents and plant products against Leucopholis lepidophora in arecanut

An experiment was conducted to know the efficacy of different bioagents and plant products against arecanut white grubs. Field study was conducted in 21 years old areca plantation with a white grub incidence of 50 per cent. The results indicated that highest per cent of larval reduction was recorded in Imidacloprid 17.8 SL (78.95 %) and was found to be more effective followed by Bacillus thurngiensis (68.55%) and Metarhizium anisopliae (53.20%). Other bioagents and plant products also reduced the grub population but was not significant. As a result, the findings of this study could be used as part of a bio-intensive whitegrub management and integrated pest management programme to promote sustainable arecanut production.

Key words: Whitegrubs, Bacillus thurngiensis, Metarhizium anisopliae, imidacloprid, bio- intensive.

S.K. Adarsha1*, C.M. Kalleshwaraswamy2 and B.K. Shivanna2

1Department of Entomology, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour- 813 210, Bihar, India.

2Department of Entomology, Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga- 577 201, Karnataka, India.

Email: adarshask@bausabour.ac.in

BAU Communication No.: 1867/240925

Comparative Susceptibility of Pleurotus spp. to Bradysia tritici and Organic Solutions for Biomanagement

Among the cultivated mushrooms, Pleurotus spp. occupies an important place and is being produced on a large scale, globally. In terms of mushroom output, India is still increasing at a very moderate rate of 4.3 per cent. One of the major reasons responsible for such slow growth rate is the dipteran fly, Bradysia tritici (Coquillett). In this light, present study was conducted to check the susceptibility level of different Pleurotus spp. against B. tritici and the effect of organic products viz., Cow urine, Panchgavya, Jeevamrit and Dashgavya for the management of this pest. Among the four Pleurotus species screened against B. tritici, all were found to be vulnerable; P. cornucopiae being the most susceptible followed by P. florida, P. ostreatus and P. sajor caju.  Out of the organic products, dashgavya at 10 per cent was the only suitable product which not only reduced the insect population but also improved the mushroom yields. Therefore, keeping in view the environment safety and crop yield, preventive spray of dashgavya can be given to manage this pest. Additionally, as a part of integrated pest management, these low-cost organic solutions can be tested in turn benefiting the mushroom industry.

Key words: Bradysia tritici, dashgavya, integrated pest management, low-cost, mushrooms, organic products, Pleurotus spp.

Bhargav* and A.S. Khanna

Department of Entomology, Dr Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni, Solan- 173 230, H.P., India.

Email: oshin.bhargav24@gmail.com

Optimizing substrate and liquid media for enhanced production of Metarhizium rileyi

Metarhizium rileyi (UASRBC-Mr19), an entomopathogenic fungus has potential applications in the sustainable pest management. Ten solid substrates and 12 liquid media were evaluated for their ability to support the fungal growth, mycelial growth, sporulation, colony diameter, colony forming units (CFU), and shelf life. Results depicted that rice substrate exhibited the minimum days for mycelial growth and with good sporulation, while finger millet showed the maximum colony forming units. Among liquid media, Sabouraud’s maltose yeast broth (SMYB) and rice cooked water broth (RCWB) were identified as optimal, promoting rapid mycelial growth, high colony diameter, and sustained CFU over time. These findings emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate media and substrates to maximize the fungal production for biocontrol purposes.

Key words: Biopesticide, liquid media, Metarhizium rileyi, solid substrate.

Sai Pooja1*, E. Sowmya1, A. Hosamani1 and A. Ajith Kumar2

1Department of Agricultural Entomology, 2Department of Plant Pathology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur- 584 104, Karnataka, India.

Email: nellurisaipooja@gmail.com

Efficacy of chemical and botanical insecticides against tobacco caterpillar, Spodoptera litura (Fabricus) in soybean

The field trial was conducted at Soybean Research Farm of Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi during Kharif season of 2021 and 2022 using variety JS-335. Results revealed that two foliar sprays applied at 35 and 50 days after sowing with Chlorantraniliprole (10 %) + Lambda cyhalothrin (5%) ZC (Ampligo 150 ZC) @ 200 ml ha-1 recorded lowest cumulative mean larval population of tobacco caterpillar i.e., 1.48 and 2.22 larvae per meter row length (mrl) during 2021 and 2022, respectively. The next best treatments were biological insecticides viz., emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 15 g ha-1 (1.68 and 2.33 larvae mrl-1) and spinosad 45 SC @ 75 g ha-1 (2.22 and 2.41 larvae mrl-1) with less larval population during 2021 and 2022, respectively. The treatment Chlorantraniliprole (10 %) + Lambda cyhalothrin (5%) ZC (Ampligo 150 ZC) @ 200 ml ha-1 also recorded highest mean seed yield (1915.5 kg ha-1) and highest benefit cost ratio (4.63).

Key words: Tobacco caterpillar, JS-335, insecticide, yield, benefit cost ratio.

Priti Priya* and M.K. Chakravarty

Department of Entomology, Birsa Agricultural University, Kanke, Ranchi- 834 006, Jharkhand, India.

Email: arya.preety123@gmail.com

Plant Pathology
Studies on compatibility and combined efficacy of microbial consortia for the management of major diseases in coconut and citrus

The study was aimed to develop microbial consortia for the management of major diseases in coconut and citrus. The primary screening of rhizosphearic bacteria showed that Pseudomonas spp., Bacillus spp. and fungi Trichoderma spp. are found effective against test pathogens viz., Ganoderma lucidum, Thielaviopsis paradoxa, Phytopthora paradoxa, Lasiodiplodia theobromae from coconut, and Fusarium solani from citrus. Fungal and bacterial antagonists are found compatible without zone of inhibition. Efficacy of non-volatile compounds are found with increasing trend with increase in concentration of 10, 25, 50 and 75 per cent in individual consortia as well as combined consortia. Nonvolatile compounds of mixed consortia composed of bacterial consortia + fungal consortia exhibited the superior inhibition against test pathogens compared to the individual consortia. At 75 per cent as highest concentration, inhibited the pathogens in the order of T. paradoxa (90.28%), Ganoderma lucidum (89.44%), Fusarium solani (82.50%), Lasiodiplodia theobromae (81.94%) and Phytophthota palmivora (81.39%). Volatile compounds of bacterial consortia – T8 (Pf-A, Pst-A and Bs-T1) and fungal consortia -T4 (Tr-A, Th-A, Ta-A) are recorded the superior inhibition when compared to the individual bio agents. The bacterial consortia T8 recorded the superior inhibition on test pathogens in the order of Ganoderma (85.28%), Fusarium (75.28%), Thielaviopsis (71.94%), Phytopthora (71.67%) and Lasiodiplodia (67.50%) compared to the individual bio agents. Similarly, the fungal consortia showed the superior inhibitory effect on test pathogens in the order of Ganoderma (83.25%), Phytopthora (82.50%), Lasiodiplodia (83.06%) Fusarium (80.56%), and Thielaviopsis (73.61%). Compatibility of 3 bacterial and 3 fungal bio agents were evaluated in various combinations, no zone of inhibition was observed in any case and hence they may be mixed in preparing formulations. Screening of substrate for multiplication of bio agents revealed that superior CFU population ranged from 3.36 to 9.43 x 106 CFU and 20.62 x 108 CFU is recorded on neem cake at 7 days of incubation period by Trichoderma spp. and bacterial bio agents, respectively. Visual observations of substrates for mass multiplication on  neem cake, farm yard manure, vermicompost, coir pith and press mud indicated that thick spur of green colour mycelial growth observed on neem cake indicated excellent grade followed by FYM (Average), vermicompost (good), coir pith (average) and press mud (poor). Shelf life study of promising bacterial bio agents + fungal bio agents in consortia as talc formulation indicated that all the bacterial CFU count recorded in 10dilution for a period of 90 days and declined to 105  at 120 days whereas fungi it was below the 105 dilution at 120 days. Hence, the mixed consortia were found to be best for field use before 120 days.

Key words: Microbial Consortia, coconut diseases, basal stem rot, stem bleeding, bud rot, leaf blight.

V. Govardhan Rao1*, B. Neeraja1, N.B.V. Chalapathi Rao1, T. Rajashekaram2, A. Kireeti1 and V. Anoosha1

1AICRP on Palms, Horticultural Research Station, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Ambajipeta- 533 214, Andhra Pradesh, India.

2Citrus Research Station, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Tirupathi- 517 502, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Email: govardhanrao139@yahoo.com

Biological management of stem rot of clusterbean under in vitro and in vivo conditions

Trichoderma harzianum and T. viride demonstrated significant inhibition of Sclerotium rolfsii mycelial growth, with 63.62 and 57.12 per cent inhibition, respectively. In contrast, bacterial bio-agents Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis showed lower efficacy (42.31 and 38.56% inhibition, respectively). Garlic extract demonstrated the highest efficacy across all concentrations, with 66.67, 68.61 and 75.19 per cent inhibition at 5, 10 and 15% concentrations, respectively. Panchgavya, a cow product, showed promising results, with 34.81, 53.06, and 74.96 per cent inhibition at 5, 10, and 15% concentrations, respectively. Treatment T3 [Seed treatment with (T. harzianum + P.  fluorescens) @ (5 g + 5 g) kg-1 + Soil application of (T. harzianum + P.  fluorescens) @ (5 kg + 5 kg) ha-1] consistently emerged as the most effective, showing high disease control and low incidence rates with highest seed and straw yield. Combinations of bio-agents and bio-products exhibited superior disease control, with cow urine and cow dung-based treatments showing promise for organic disease management in clusterbean cultivation. Treatment T10 [Seed treatment with cow dung + Foliar application of Buttermilk] was least effective and consistently yielded the minimum seed and straw across all treatments.

Key words: Trichoderma, Bioagents, Sclerotium, Plant extract, Stem rot, Clusterbean

Shipra Sharma1*, Dataram Kumhar1, Anand Choudhary1, Santosh Kumari1, D. Rashmi2 and Jasveer Singh1

1Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Bikaner, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner- 334 006, Rajasthan, India.

2Department of Plant Pathology, Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga-577 201, Karnataka, India.

Email: shipra08sharma@gmail.com

Effect of sett bacterization on sugarcane seedlings under greenhouse conditions

Sugarcane being major a cash crop suffers with inappropriate fertilization practices and excessive pesticide usage which leads in increased costs for farmers and poses environmental and public health risks. Research and practical interventions are critical for maintaining sugarcane yields while minimizing environmental impacts. In this context the efficacy of 40 root-colonizing bacterial strains in promoting sugarcane seedling growth was evaluated under greenhouse conditions. Single-node setts of sugarcane cultivar 2009A 107 were inoculated with bacterial suspension (10-9 CFU ml-1) and subsequently sown in a cocopeat-vermicompost mixture. Germination percentage, shoot length, and seedling vigour index (SVI) were assessed at 40 days post-sowing. Several Bacillus and Pseudomonas isolates demonstrated significant enhancements in these growth parameters compared to the untreated control. Notably, four bacterial strains Bacillus inaquosorum strain SRB2, Bacillus vallismortis strain SRB20, Pseudomonas chlororaphis subsp. aurantiaca strain SRP19 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain SRP20, previously identified for their antagonistic properties, exhibited particularly strong positive effects on SVI. These findings suggest that sett bacterization with selected bacterial isolates can be a promising approach to improve sugarcane seedling establishment and vigour.

Key words: Sett bacterization, rhizobacteria, plant growth promotion, seedling vigour.

K.K. Chetan1*, P. Kishore Varma2 and V. Vasanthi3

1Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi- 110 012, India.

2Regional Agricultural Research Station (ANGRAU), Lam, Guntur- 522 034, Andhra Pradesh, India.

3Department of Plant Pathology, Agricultural College (ANGRAU), Bapatla- 522 101, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Email: chetankk8246@gmail.com

Impact of neem oil in controlling powdery mildew (Erysiphe polygoni DC) on green gram (Vigna radiata L.)

Powdery mildew in green gram is attributed to the fungus Erysiphe polygoni DC. This disease poses a significant challenge to crop production, affecting all above-ground parts of the plant. An effective and environmentally friendly approach to managing powdery mildew is the use of neem oil. Various concentrations of neem oil were tested as foliar sprays, including 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5% alongside a treatment of carbendazim @ 0.1% and an untreated control. Results showed that all treatments notably diminished the severity of the disease and enhanced crop yield. Among the tested concentrations, neem oil @ 2.0% proved to be the most effective, significantly outperforming the other treatments in reducing the intensity of powdery mildew of green gram while also promoting plant growth, yield, and costeffectiveness compared to both the carbendazim @ 1% treatment and the untreated control.

Key words: Cost benefit ratio, Erysiphe polygoni, foliar spray, green gram, neem oil, powdery mildew.

S.S.P. Phani Deep Pasupuleti* and Abhilasha A. Lal

Department of Plant Pathology, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj- 211 007, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Email: jnvphani@gmail.com

Prevalence of okra fruit rot caused by Choanephora in North Eastern Region of India Particular to Arunachal Pradesh

Choanephora fruit rot of vegetables is an emerging threat to vegetable growers in India. During the survey of disease incidence, okra fruit rot caused by Choanephora was noticed in Sika Tode Village, East Siang District, Arunachal Pradesh, and reported for the first time in the Northeast region. The pathogen attacks young fruits causing watersoaked lesions and disintegrating the infected lesion. With the progression of infestation, the entire surface is covered with dense whitish cottony growth and turns brownish to blackish thus forming a black pinhead, the superficial sporangia. The morphological study revealed that sporangia are sub-globose in shape and brown in colour. The minimum disease incidence of 22.4% was noticed in the initiation of fruiting stage (June) and gradually reached the maximum incidence of 73.3% (August) with the growth of fruiting formation. Increase in the exposure periods of fruit rot infestation, percent disease incidence (PDI) increases resulting in great losses of okra yield. The correlation coefficient of PDI with weather parameters revealed a significant positive relationship with the maximum temperature at 5% probability (P=0.05) and a non-significant negative relationship with the relative humidity and total rainfall indicating favouring in the occurrence and spreading of the plant disease. Timely caution of the incidence of Choanephora causing fruit rot to okra and other economically important vegetable crops is the need of the hour for its judicious protection and management against this disease.

Key words: Choanephora, okra fruit rot, correlation, percent disease incidence, abiotic parameters.

Surmina Devi1*, T. Shantibala2, Ajaykumara K.M.1, N.Y. Chanu3, R.C. Shakywar1 and Denisha Rajkhowa3

1College of Horticulture and Forestry, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Pasighat – 791 102, Arunachal Pradesh, India.

2Directorate of Research, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Lamphelpat – 795 004, Manipur, India.

3College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Pasighat – 791 102, Arunachal Pradesh, India

Email: nsurminadevi@gmail.com

Sustainable management of sheath blight in Oryza sativa L. by integrated biological approach

Rice sheath blight brought on by Rhizoctonia solani is one of the most significant diseases in the world, which results in significant yield losses. Application of chemical fungicides is the most preferred approach for the management of disease but extensive use of them results in environment pollution and resistance development to pathogen. Thus, there is a need to explore alternative strategies to overcome the problem of fungicide usage. The present study was done to develop sustainable strategy which is an environment friendly and alternative to chemical fungicides. Among various treatments, soil application of neem cake at 200 kg acre-1 + foliar spray of micronutrient mixture 5 g l-1 at 40 days after transplanting (DAT) + foliar spray of microbial consortia 5 g l-1 at 50 DAT was found very effective in reducing the disease severity (19.16%) and increasing growth promotion activity compared to control. Therefore, the findings of this investigation could be exploited under bio-intensive disease management programme for sustainable cultivation of rice.

Key words: Sheath blight, Rhizoctonia solani, biocontrol, Trichoderma harzianum, neem.

A.V. Reddy Kumar1*, N. Kiran Kumar1, V.B. Sanath Kumar2, S.B. Yogananda3 and L. Vijaykumar4

1Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, V. C. Farm, Mandya- 571 402, Karnataka, India.

2AICRP on Rice, ZARS, V. C. Farm, Mandya- 571 402, Karnataka, India.

3Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, V. C. Farm, Mandya- 571 402, Karnataka, India.

4Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, V. C. Farm, Mandya- 571 402, Karnataka, India.

Email: rk527930@gmail.com

Case Study
A comparative study of agricultural education and extension practices in the US and India: Implications for sustainable farming

This comparative case study investigates agricultural education and extension practices in the United States (US) and India, focusing on experiential learning, extension services, public-private partnerships, bridging research and practice, and sustainable farming practices. Results show that Indian agricultural education practices demonstrate higher student engagement, broader extension service reach, and more impactful public-private partnerships compared to the US. Specifically, experiential learning programs in India led to higher student engagement and career interest, while extension services provided by Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in India showed greater effectiveness and rural reach. Public-private partnerships, notably initiatives like Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) in India, exhibited higher perceived impact and resource mobilization. Moreover, successful strategies identified in India for bridging research and practice have implications for enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability globally. The study underscores the importance of experiential learning, effective extension services, and collaborative partnerships in promoting sustainable farming practices.

Key words: Agricultural education, extension services, experiential learning, public-private partnerships, sustainable farming.

Kavita Roy1* and Khritish Swargiary2

1Education Department, Bongaigaon College, Bongaigaon- 783 380, Assam, India.

2EdTech Research Association, Arizona, United States.

Emails: kavitaroy7777@gmail.com and khritish@teachers.org

Engineering
Smart irrigation system for leafy vegetable crops

In India, agriculture plays a critical role, employing a massive 65 per cent of the workforce and contributing significantly (26%) to the gross domestic product (GDP). However, water scarcity poses a major challenge. To address this, an intelligent irrigation system was developed to optimize water usage and prevent overwatering. This system calculates the Soil Moisture Content (SMC) and delivers watering based on each plant’s specific needs. For the research purpose, three commonly grown leafy vegetables were chosen: fenugreek, spinach, and dill. All three are popular and healthy, widely cultivated across India. This selection offers a range of water requirements. Fenugreek, an important crop in arid regions like Rajasthan and Maharashtra, has moderate to high water needs. Spinach, a global vegetable rich in nutrients, also requires moderate watering, but suffers greatly under drought stress, a major challenge for its growth. Leafy greens, like spinach, are particularly susceptible to water stress, making precise irrigation crucial. Dill, another economical crop, likely has its own specific watering needs, further contributing to the comprehensiveness of the system’s evaluation. By studying these plants with varying water demands and drought tolerance, valuable insights were gained into how the system could benefit a diverse range of crops in different water situations. The results were promising, demonstrating the system’s ability to effectively monitor water needs and promote healthy plant growth. This innovation offers a sustainable solution for Indian agriculture, ensuring efficient water use while maximizing crop yield.

Key words: Agriculture, irrigation, microcontroller, soil moisture content, soil moisture sensor.

Rajesh J. Chaudhari1*, Aditya K. Jajoo2, Sushant M. Jakhade2, Vaidehi M. Jalwadi2, Malhar M. Jambhorkar2, Anshul C. Jambhure Deshmukh2 and Dev S. Jangam2

Department of Mechanical Engineering1; Department of Engineering, Sciences and Humanities2, Vishwakarma Institute of Technology, Pune- 411 037, Maharashtra, India.

Email: rajesh.chaudhari@vit.edu

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