Journal of Scientific Research and Reports

A Tool to Measure Farmers’ Training Needs in Drone-based Technologies: A Comprehensive Review

Pankaj Sharma — 2025-10-14

In the face of growing challenges in modern agriculture, such as climate change, sustainable resource management, and food security, drones are emerging as essential tools for transforming precision agriculture. Sustainable agriculture is being transformed by drone-IoT integration, improving precision, efficiency, and sustainability. Drones are remote controlled aircraft with no human pilot on-board. These have a huge potential in agriculture in supporting evidence-based planning and in spatial data collection. Despite some inherent limitations, these tools and technologies can provide valuable data that can then be used to influence policies and decisions. The integration of drone-based technologies in agriculture presents significant potential to revolutionize precision farming. However, the adoption rate among small and marginal farmers remains limited due to gaps in knowledge, awareness, and access to appropriate training. This review synthesizes existing literature and proposes a structured framework to assess farmers’ training needs using a validated tool. Emphasizing the importance of the Training Needs Assessment (TNA) model, the paper thoroughly explores critical competency areas essential for effective modern agricultural practices. These domains include drone operation, which ensures precision in farming; GPS navigation, vital for accurate field mapping and planning; pest management, necessary for sustainable crop protection; regulatory compliance, ensuring adherence to legal and safety standards; and digital literacy, which empowers farmers to efficiently utilize emerging technologies. The findings aim to support the development of targeted training programs to bridge the digital divide in Indian agriculture.

Seed Development and Maturation Studies and the Impact of Different Threshing Methods in Sirukeerai (Amaranthus polygonoides L.) var. PLR 1

S. Pozhilarasi — 2025-09-28

In developing countries, vegetable amaranth serves as an affordable alternative source of nutrition, particularly for vegetarian populations, as it provides carotenoids, proteins, vitamins, dietary fibre and a wide range of minerals. Seed processing is a fundamental component of any planned seed production, as it aims to improve seed quality characteristics. The study aimed to explore the impact of different threshing methods in Sirukeerai (Amaranthus polygonoides L.) var. PLR 1. The study was conducted with Sirukeerai (Amaranthus polygonoides) seeds. The field experiment (Kharif season) was carried out at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. Ten spikes were harvested at five-day intervals from the date of tagging and designated as days after anthesis (DAA). The maturation status of seeds during developmental stages was evaluated using various growth parameters. Plants were subjected to three threshing methods: hand rubbing, beating with a pliable stick and tractor treading. The present investigation (2017–2018) on seed development and maturation in Sirukeerai (Amaranthus polygonoides L.) revealed that seeds attained physiological maturity at 30 days after anthesis. This stage was indicated by the fresh weight of spike (0.063 mg), dry weight of spike (0.019 mg), spike moisture content (36.33%), seed fresh weight (0.051 mg), seed dry weight (0.013 mg) and seed moisture content (18.63%). At 30 days after anthesis, maximum seed quality parameters were recorded, including germination (93%), shoot length (6.1 cm), root length (4.3 cm), dry matter production (7.21 mg/10 seedlings) and vigour index (967). After harvest at physiological maturity, freshly harvested spikes were used to evaluate the impact of different threshing methods on seed quality in Sirukeerai. Following fertilisation, moisture content initially increases during the early days, but subsequently decreases as seed development progresses, until equilibrium is reached with the surrounding environmental conditions. Hand rubbing recorded the highest threshing efficiency (62.4%) and germination (91%), followed by stick beating (85%) and tractor treading (75%). The superior performance of hand rubbing was attributed to reduced mechanical damage compared to stick beating and tractor treading, which caused seed coat injury and higher proportions of abnormal seedlings.

Assessment of Farmers’ Knowledge Level on Recommended Castor Cultivation Practices in Telangana, India

Yasa Sirilakshmi — 2025-10-04

Castor (Ricinus communis) is a key oilseed crop in India with a wide range of industrial applications. Although India is the top producer, yields of castor in Telangana remain relatively low, largely due to farmers' limited familiarity with recommended practices. The study evaluated the knowledge of 120 castor growers in Mahabubnagar district and analyzed how socio-economic traits relate to their awareness of best practices. Farmers' knowledge was measured across agronomic operations, nutrient and pest management, post-harvest handling and value-addition practices. Results showed that farmers were more aware of routine, observable practices such as sowing time, hybrid selection, and nipping, while technical and post-harvest practices, including storage, nutrient management, and value addition, were poorly understood. Correlation analysis indicated that education, farming experience, training, social participation, information-seeking, input management, motivation, risk-taking, and market intelligence positively influenced knowledge, whereas age, landholding, and irrigation potential had limited effects. The findings highlight the need for strengthened extension services and targeted training to improve adoption of recommended practices, enhance yield, reduce post-harvest losses, and increase economic returns, promoting sustainable castor production.

Growth and Instability Analysis of Vegetable Crops in Chhattisgarh Plains: A Production Function Approach

Prachi Jaiswal — 2025-09-29

This study analyzes the production dynamics of five major vegetable crops—Brinjal, Okra, Cauliflower, Potato, and Tomato—in Chhattisgarh, India, using district-level data from 2004–05 to 2021–22. Secondary data from 17 districts were compiled into a relational database and examined through stepwise regression-based production function models, incorporating both annual and periodic effects to capture structural changes in crop performance. The models demonstrated high explanatory power, with R² values of 98.12% for Brinjal in Rajnandgaon, 98.98% for Okra in Bilaspur, 98.32% for Cauliflower in Koriya, 98.39% for Potato in Kabirdham, and 98.9% for Tomato in Rajnandgaon. Decomposition of results revealed significant heterogeneity across districts: in Jagdalpur, Bastar, Koriya, and Kabirdham, production was primarily area-driven, whereas in Bilaspur, Jashpur, and Mahasamund, productivity gains played the dominant role. These findings highlight the dual pathways of agricultural growth—through area expansion and productivity enhancement—and provide critical insights for policy formulation. For sustainable vegetable development, district-specific interventions are essential: improved seeds, irrigation, and nutrient management in productivity-led regions, and land-use optimization in area-driven regions. The research underscores the value of econometric modeling and database-driven analysis in guiding evidence-based agricultural planning and enhancing predictive accuracy for future crop performance.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Strategies for Managing Insect-Transmitted Viral Diseases in Rice Fallow Blackgram: Evidence from Farmers' Fields in Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh, India

P. Srilatha — 2025-09-30

To create awareness among the farming community, this study was conducted in ten locations of the farmers fields during 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23 by the KVK in Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh and explored the impact of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) on Management of Sucking Pest in Rice fallow Blackgram with the emphasis on use of resistant varieties, seed treatment and other cultural practices. By adoption of IPM practices in all the three years, the incidence of the leaf crinkle, leaf curl and Yellow Mosaic Virus (YMV) was reduced in comparision with farmers practice; while bud necrosis was not notice in all these years. This has resulted in reduction in the average cost of cultivation by Rs. 2690.00 per hectare and the average net income was improved by Rs. 13596 per hectare compared to the farmers practice. The average yield levels (1659 kg/ha) improved by 10.91 per cent compared to farmers practice (1496 kg/ha) giving a clear indication that adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices helped in improving the net income levels to the resource poor farmers.

Critical Carbon Inputs to Maintain Soil Organic Carbon Stocks under Long-Term Rice-Rice Cropping System in Semi-Arid Southern India

Ravi P. — 2025-09-30

A long-term field experiment under a rice–rice cropping system was conducted for 18 years to evaluate the influence of inorganic fertilizers and organic manures on soil physico-chemical properties, carbon dynamics and crop productivity. Continuous application of fertilizers and organics brought notable changes in soil properties. Soil pH remained slightly alkaline, and electrical conductivity showed minor increases under higher nutrient inputs. Organic carbon improved considerably with the addition of farmyard manure and its integration with fertilizers compared to the control. Annual carbon inputs were relatively low with fertilizers alone, contributing about 2.3–3.1 Mg C ha^-1 yr^-1, but increased substantially with FYM addition (around 4.8 Mg C ha^-1 yr^-1), while sole FYM application provided the highest return (about 6.8 Mg C ha^-1 yr^-1). Fertilizer-only treatments often resulted in negative or near-equilibrium carbon balances, particularly under excessive nitrogen, whereas maintaining soil organic carbon required a minimum threshold of 3.6 Mg C ha^-1 yr^-1. Grain yield trends indicated sustained productivity under balanced fertilization and significant improvement with integrated nutrient management. Furthermore, analysis of cumulative carbon inputs identified a critical threshold required to maintain soil organic carbon stock. The findings suggest that long-term balanced fertilization combined with organic amendments is essential not only for sustaining crop productivity but also for enhancing soil health and organic carbon sequestration in intensive rice-based systems.

Insect Diversity in Mulberry Plantations: A Study from Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat

Pooja Borah — 2025-09-30

A survey was conducted to study the diversity of insect species during February 2024 to February 2025 in the campus of Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat. Geographically, Jorhat is located at 116 Meters (381 ft) above MSL and 26.75°N latitude and 94.22°E longitude. The insect specimens were collected from the mulberry gardens located at different locations within the campus of Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat. From the study a high diversity of insect fauna in the mulberry plantations was recorded. The result of the diversity study revealed that Coleopteran (17 species) dominated the other insect fauna followed by Hymenoptera (12 species), Lepidoptera (10 species), Diptera (6 species), Odonata (4 species) and Hemiptera (4 species). A total of 53 insect species were collected and the species were identified with the help of existing literature. The knowledge compiled here will serve as valuable information for future studies aiming to understand more deeply the processes of speciation and faunal formation of insects in Jorhat.

Assessment of Yield and Nutrient Uptake Patterns in Diverse Rice Varieties at Distinct Growth Stages in the Northern Telangana Zone

Ravi. P. — 2025-09-30

A detailed evaluation of grain yield, straw yield and nutrient uptake (N, P, and K) in various rice varieties grown in the Northern Telangana Zone (NTZ) was conducted using pooled data from the Kharif (2019 to 2020) and Rabi (2019–2021) seasons. The study categorized rice varieties into extra short (<120 days), short (120–130 days) and medium duration (130–140 days) groups to assess their agronomic performance and nutrient dynamics. Results showed that the extra short-duration variety Rudramma was highly productive, recording superior yields and nutrient uptake compared to other entries in its group. In the short-duration group, Jagtial Rice-1 consistently outperformed others in both seasons, with higher grain yields and greater uptake of N, P, and K. Among the medium-duration group, Karimnagar Samba recorded stable grain and straw yields along with efficient nutrient utilization. The progressive increase of nutrient absorption from maximum tillering to harvest highlights the importance of stage-specific nutrient management to optimize rice productivity. Overall, the findings underscore the significant variation in yield potential and nutrient uptake across rice varieties in NTZ, emphasizing the need for targeted selection and nutrient management practices tailored to variety duration and seasonal conditions. The identified high-yielding, nutrient-efficient varieties hold promise for enhancing rice production sustainability in the region.

A Complete Analysis of Durum Wheat Value Chain in the Central Zone of India

Anirban Jana — 2025-10-04

The study analysed wheat (Triticum durum) value chains in Madhya Pradesh, situated in the Central Zone of India. Conducted in 2023, it employed multistage random sampling to obtain data from 100 respondents, comprising 60 farmers and 40 stakeholders engaged in wheat value chains. The assessment covered the entire pathway from farm to consumer, focusing on cost of cultivation, gross returns, marketing margins, value addition, and marketing efficiency. The results indicated that the average cost of cultivation was ₹35,665 per acre, while the average gross return amounted to ₹43,802 per acre. Small farmers reported the highest cost as well as gross returns. The mean return on investment (ROI) for wheat cultivation was estimated at 0.35. Three distinct value chains were identified in the study area. Among them, the chain where farmers sold directly to millers, bypassing local traders and brokers, was the most efficient (0.849). This chain also ensured the highest price realization for farmers (₹2,350/q), compared with ₹1,870/q and ₹2,060/q in the first and second chains, respectively, which involved more intermediaries. The findings highlight the efficiency gains from reducing intermediaries and provide empirical evidence to support future research on value chain optimization in other crops.

Impact of Stand Density on Biomass Production and Carbon Stocks in Sandalwood (Santalum album L.) Plantations in Maharashtra, India

Nanita Berry — 2025-10-04

This study on Sandalwood focuses on relationship between biomass and the individual tree-level factors that influences its growth. Understanding carbon stocks associated with tree growth is complex, as it is affected by various factors, including planting geometry, soil conditions, local climate, tree management practices, and genetic traits. In 2023, a survey in Maharashtra identified 30 Sandalwood plantations through a snowball sampling method. To assess biomass production, these plantations were classified into five different stand density types. A Randomized Block Design (RBD) was implemented which consisted of five treatments based on spacing, each treatment replicated three times in twelve plots. The treatments were denoted as, T1 (3m × 3m), T2 (3.5m × 3.5m), T3 (4.5m × 4.5m), T4 (5.5m × 5.5m) & T5 (6m × 6m). The study found that the highest total biomass of 8.342 Mg ha^-1 occurred at a density of 493 trees ha^-1, significantly surpassing all other treatments. Correspondingly, the total carbon stock was greatest at this density, measuring 36.571 Mg C ha^-1, while the lowest carbon stock was recorded at 277 trees ha^-1, which was 31.425 Mg C ha^-1. Additionally, the carbon sequestration potential peaked at 134.215 Mg C ha^-1 in the moderate density plantation. These results confirm that stand density plays a crucial role in biomass accumulation in Sandalwood plantations, with intermediate densities producing the best outcomes. The findings align with previous research on Sandalwood and other tree species, highlighting the importance of optimizing planting density for sustainable and productive plantation management.

Assessment of Risk Factors for Parasitic Zoonotic Diseases among Pet Owners in Chennai, Tamilnadu, India

Suganya G. — 2025-10-04

Companion animals play a pivotal role in the transmission of parasites to humans, acting as definitive or reservoir hosts for helminth and protozoan species. However, this cohabitation with pet animals allows for the transmission of zoonotic parasites to humans. The objective of this study was to conduct parasite surveys through a structured questionnaire in humans to identify, evaluate and establish the risk factors which are favouring the transmission of zoonotic parasites to humans.Irregular deworming (p=0.011), lack of awareness on parasitic zoonotic diseases, allowing the pets to defecate in public places (p=0.005), habit of feeding pets with undercooked meat, allowing the pets to prey on rodents (p=0.029) and method of disposal of faecal material (p=0.025) were the major risk factors identified of among various factors studied and they are highly responsible for the various clinical manifestations due to zoonotic parasitic diseases in humans like Allergy, Eosinophilia, Cutaneous tracts with pruritus. Knowledge on zoonosis and pet management practices was poor, including irregular deworming. Dogs may play an active role in the transmission of zoonotic diseases in the area, given the cohabitation of infected dogs with humans; the irregular deworming pattern of dogs; and rampant excretion of helminth-infested dog excreta into the environment.

Influence of Plant Growth Regulators on in vitro Morphogenesis of Moringa oleifera L. Using Nodal Segment Cultures

Ajay Verma — 2025-10-04

Moringa oleifera is a multi-purpose tree that is gaining popularity as an economic crop because of increasing recognition of its nutritional and medicinal properties. Conventionally, seeds have been employed to propagate Moringa oleifera; the genotypes of trees developed from seedlings often differ from their mother plants, which affecting nutritional value and pod production. Therefore, in the present investigation, a protocol was established to regenerate plantlets through indirect and direct in vitro organogenesis from cultured nodal segments excised from in vitro developed plants. The present study was carried out at the Plant Tissue Culture & Genetic Transformation Laboratory, Department of Plant Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Agricultural University, Gwalior M.P., India during the years 2021 to 2023. Nodal segments were inoculated on MS medium amended with different concentrations and combinations of auxins and cytokinins. MS medium containing 1.0 mgl^-12,4-D induced callus in higher frequencies with maximum fresh weight (3.70g) after 60 days of inoculation. The best multiple shoot formation (8.00±0.30) with higher shoot length (9.00±0.27cm) were observed on nutrient media fortified with 1.0 mgl^-1NAA in combination with 0.5 mgl^-1 BAP. Whereas, maximum numbers of roots per micro shoot (11.00±0.28) with greater length (7.20±0.15cm) were obtained on basal MS media amended with 1.0 mgl^-1 IBA. Among different potting mixture combinations, maximum survival (85%) with maximum plant height (12.95±0.17cm) achieved in a cocopeat: vermiculite in 1:1 ratio. The in vitro regenerated plantlets were successfully acclimatized and established under field conditions. Although the characters were not scored quantitatively, regenerated plantlets appeared phenotypically normal and true- to-type.

Impact of Hydro, Organic, Hormonal and Osmo Priming Treatments on Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) Seed Quality

Jay Singh — 2025-10-04

A popular pre-sowing method for improving seed quality, germination effectiveness, and early seedling vigor is seed priming. Crop establishment and productivity in coriander are frequently restricted by inadequate and irregular germination. Several priming techniques, including hydropriming, organic priming, hormone priming, and osmopriming, have been investigated to address these issues by boosting stress tolerance, enhancing germination performance, and activating early metabolic processes. The experiment was conducted at the Seed Technology Laboratory, Department of Seed Science and Technology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, using a completely randomized design. The following treatments were used for study: T₀- Control, T₁- hydropriming for 24 hours soaking, T₂- Vermi wash 15% for 24 hours soaking, T₃- Cow urine 20% for 24 hours soaking, T₄- Panchgavya 15% for 24 hours soaking, T₅- Humic acid 20% for 24 hours soaking, T₆- GA₃ 50 ppm for 24 hours soaking, T₇- NAA 50 ppm for 24 hours soaking, T₈- Cytokinin 100 ppm for 16 hours soaking, T₉- KNO₃ 3% for 16 hours soaking, and T₁₀- NaCl 4 g/l for 16 hours soaking. T₆-50 ppm solution of GA₃ soaking for 24 h showed better performance as compared to other treatments for 1000 seed weight (11.96), standard germination (96.38), peak value of germination (21.63), mean daily germination (4.59), germination value (99.21), seedling length (20.43), seedling dry weight (2.97), vigour index-I (1968.98) and vigour index-II (286.47). T₂-15% solution of Vermiwash soaking for 24 h was found superior for the relative growth index (99.20). The results indicate that seed enhancement approaches can incorporate both chemical and organic priming techniques, with GA₃ exhibiting the greatest potential for enhancing the quality and production of coriander seeds.

Genetic Evaluation of Eleusine coracana L. F3 Families for Grain Zinc, Iron and Yield-related Features

Sangappa Arjun Teli — 2025-10-04

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana L.), also referred to as ragi, is prized for its rich nutritional profile, especially in calcium, iron and zinc, as well as its ability to withstand low-input farming conditions. Comparatively speaking to other millets, despite being consumed globally, its systematic genetic improvement has advanced slowly. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity and trait heritability of two hybrid crosses, GPU-28 × GE-1746 and GPU-28 × GE-6635, in their third generation (F₃). In all, 60 families from the second cross and 97 families from the first cross were assessed in the autumn of 2022. Fe and Zn had a strong positive correlation in GPU-28 × GE-1746 but a negative correlation in GPU-28 × GE-6635, according to correlation analysis. While grain Fe and Zn showed a negative correlation with yield, productive tillers and the number of fingers per ear were positively correlated with grain yield. While the progeny of the cross, GPU-28 × GE-6635, consistently performed well for both yield and nutritional traits, several progenies exceeded the checks for grain micronutrient contents. These results point to promising F₃ families for future development, which could result in the creation of high-yielding, biofortified finger millet varieties that are higher in iron and zinc.

Characterization of Interspecific F1 Hybrids of Okra Exploiting Abelmoschus caillei (A. Chev) Stevels

Minnu Ann Jose — 2025-10-04

Wild okra germplasm offers a rich source for breeding programme focused on enhancing biotic and abiotic stress resistance, yield, and quality. Yellow Vein Mosaic Disease (YVMD) which affects quality and yield, is a major constraint in okra cultivation worldwide. Abelmoschus caillei (A. Chev.) Stevels, is a promising source of resistance to YVMD which could be effectively utilized for interogressing resistance to cultivated okra Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench. The present study envisaged to develop and characterize interspecific hybrids in okra by crossing the A. caillei genotype Susthira, directly and reciprocally with three A. esculentus genotypes that are susceptible to YVMD, viz., the green fruited type – NBPGR (National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources) accession no. EC305635, the white fruited type – Anakomban and the red fruited type –Aruna. Agro-morphological characterization of the interspecific hybrids and their parents was carried out. The study revealed that the A. caillei and A. esculentus genotypes were cross compatible as all the crosses produced successful fruit and seed set. The interspecific hybrids showcased normal growth, vigour exceeding that of both parents and a combination of parental traits. Significant variation was observed among hybrids and their parents in terms of the quantitative characteristics studied indicating the potential for genetic improvement. Notably the yield-related traits of the F₁ hybrids, T5 (Aruna × Susthira), T4 (Susthira × EC305635), T3 (EC305635 × Susthira) and T6 (Susthira × Aruna) were superior to those of all the other hybrids and parental lines, confirming the hypothesis of luxuriance in these interspecific hybrids. The present study lays the foundation for utilizing A. caillei for YVMD resistance breeding in okra and exploring promising hybrid combinations for future breeding programme.

Assessment of Cutch, Katha and Catechin Content from Heartwood of Senegalia catechu and Its Variation with Storage

Saswat Nayak — 2025-10-04

The investigation was carried out in the laboratory of College of Forestry, O.U.A.T, Bhubaneswar during 2023-24. S.catechu phenotypically superior trees selected from the natural habitat of Subarnapur forest division situated in western part of Odisha from which heart wood saw dust were extracted and then Cutch, Katha, Catechin content (%) and Catechin yield were estimated. The ranges were found to be for Cutch yield (1.310 – 1.648 g), Katha yield (1.197 – 0.440 g), Catechin content in katha (33.640 % – 15.935 %) and Catechin content in saw dust (0.571 % – 1.894 %). For identification of proper storage condition of saw dust of Senegalia catechu to avoid losses in Cutch, Katha and Catechin content (%), Saw dust (15 g) stored under different regime (Light, Dark), condition (Open and Closed) for various durations (0, 30, 60, 90 days) which were then extracted. The Katha and Cutch yield from the stored saw dust after 90 days of storage revealed that saw dust stored in closed light condition had highest yield of Katha (1.605 gm), Cutch (1.395gm) with 28.916% and 27.397% increase respectively from initially stored saw dust. The Catechin content (%) in the extracted Cutch from stored saw dust of S. catechu after 90 days of storage revealed that closed dark condition contain highest Catechin content (31.869 %) with 25.137% increase from Cutch extracted initial stored saw dust. The study also revealed light and open has a greater effect on degradation of Katha and Catechin in saw dust whereas closed and dark condition on degradation of Cutch in stored saw dust of S. catechu.

Documentation of Some Wild Plants of Panagar Block of Jabalpur District, Madhya Pradesh, India

Vishnu K. Solanki — 2025-10-04

The present paper highlights the documentation of the wild plants, including trees, herbs, shrubs, fruit plants and medicinal plants, etc., in Panagar block of Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh. The principal objective of this investigation was to present indigenous knowledge and uses of wild plants by villagers of Panagar block of Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh, India for various purposes. The current situation shows that their utilisation and knowledge are reducing over time. Therefore, there is an urgent need to investigate ethnic knowledge and expertise on the benefits of wild plants. The botanical names followed by common names, family and local uses are furnished. Questionnaires were prepared for collecting information. The study was carried out purposively in three selected villages in the Panagar block of Jabalpur district during the FWE programme. In the present study, a total of 34 plant species belonging to 22 families have been investigated as wild plants, and Leguminosae (8) was the dominant family during August 2024 to January 2025. Wild plants and their parts, mainly root, stem, leaves, flowers and sometimes whole plants, are directly utilised. This study reveals that rural people living in village areas depend on wild plants and have a huge knowledge of wild plants and their utilisation. The data have been documented on various types of plants for food, fodder, fuel, medicine, etc. Further study is needed for the documentation of wild plants used by villagers and the traditional knowledge of their uses. Wild plants have better potential to meet the recommended allowances, but special awareness among the villagers is necessary for the conservation of these wild plants.

Growth, Yield and Productivity of Maize + Cowpea Intercropping as Affected by Varietal Combination and Relative Times of Planting

Alex Ofori — 2025-10-04

Aims: Maize-cowpea intercropping has been identified as a sustainable practice for enhancing food security and resource efficiency in smallholder farming systems. This study investigated the effects of varying varietal combinations and relative planting times on growth, yield attributes, and productivity within maize-cowpea intercrop systems.

Study Design: A 3 x 3 factorial laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications.

Place and Duration of Study: Mampong-Ashanti, located in the Forest–Savannah Transition Zone of Ghana, during the 2021 minor and 2022 major cropping seasons.

Methodology: The study included four sole crops comprising three maize varieties and one cowpea variety. The treatments were: (A) three varietal combinations [(i) Abontem maize + Zamzam cowpea, (ii) Opeaburo maize + Zamzam cowpea and (iii) Omankwa maize + Zamzam cowpea] and three relative times of planting [(i) maize planted 2 weeks before cowpea (M2WBC), (ii) maize planted simultaneously with cowpea (SIM) and (iii) cowpea planted 2 weeks before maize (C2WBM)].

Results: The results showed that sole cropping of Opeaburo maize promoted earlier tasseling and silking, while cowpea flowered earlier when planted after Opeaburo. For vegetative growth, sole Omankwa and Opeaburo produced the tallest maize plants. Cowpea grown simultaneously with Omankwa or Abontem also recorded greater plant height. For yield and yield components, maximum maize grain yield during the 2021 minor season (4.16 t ha⁻¹) was obtained when Omankwa was planted two weeks after cowpea, while in the 2022 major season, sole Omankwa recorded the highest yield (2.94 t ha⁻¹). Cowpea grain yield peaked under sole cropping in the 2021 minor season (346.50 kg ha⁻¹) and under simultaneous planting with Opeaburo in 2022 (405.25 kg ha⁻¹). Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) indicated greater efficiency in Abontem + Zamzam when maize was sown two weeks before cowpea, and in Opeaburo + Zamzam under simultaneous planting. Based on these findings, planting Abontem maize either two weeks before or simultaneously with cowpea is recommended for farmers interested in maize-cowpea intercropping for higher yield.

Conclusion: Varietal combination and relative times of planting had a varying effect on maize and cowpea growth and yield.

Systematic Diversity, Population Abundance and Ecological Significance of Shellfish Fauna in Bihar, India

Suday Prasad — 2025-10-04

Freshwater shellfishes, despite their ecological and economic importance, remain poorly studied in many parts of India, particularly in the northeastern region of Bihar. This study was undertaken to document the taxonomic diversity, abundance, and economic value of shellfishes in the Mahananda-Koshi basin. Shellfishes were collected from both lentic and lotic water bodies using hand-picking and dredging techniques. Systematic identification was carried out using standard taxonomic keys and reference literature. Species were categorized into three groups-abundant, common, and rare-based on their frequency of occurrence. In addition, market surveys were conducted to assess the economic significance of different taxa.

A total of 24 taxa, including gastropods, bivalves, and crustaceans, were recorded. Out of the 24 taxa recorded, the most abundant species group accounted for 16.7%, whereas the least abundant (rare) group represented 20.8% of the total diversity. Market analysis revealed that M. gangeticum and other small-sized Macrobrachium species had the highest economic value, followed by Paratelphusa and edible gastropods (Pila and Bellamya). Overall, the study highlights the rich ecological diversity and considerable economic potential of freshwater shellfishes in the region, underscoring the urgent need for their sustainable exploitation, management, and conservation to maintain ecological balance and support rural livelihoods.

Study on Problems Faced by the Dairy Women Entrepreneurs and their Suggestions to Strengthen Dairy Industry

Netravathi. G — 2025-10-04

Women dairy entrepreneurs play a very important role in Indian dairy industry. These women contribute 70% of work force and earn regular income from dairy industry. This promotes socio economic empowerment of women financially, invest in their children’s education, healthcare, and contribute to household expense. Even though women entrepreneurs facing some problems in this industry, the study planned to identified solutions to those problems. The study was conducted in Bharuch district of Gujarat state with the sample size of 360. The study was planned to make survey for three years (2021 to 2024) by developing a pre tested interview schedule. The schedule was developed by collecting information from review of literature and with experts help. The data was collected and analysed using Garrett ranking technique using excel. From the data it’s revolved that the women dairy entrepreneurs encountered some important challenges in dairy industry like lack of low milk price (83.33%), availability of nutrient feeding (73.33%), cost of nutrient feeding (66.11%) etc. The study reviles that solutions to overcome those problems and sustain women dairy entrepreneurs were women centric training programs, awareness campaigns, timely supply of inputs with affordable prices including veterinary services can strengthen the women dairy entrepreneurs.

Molecular Characterization of Recombinant Inbred Lines (RILs) in Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L.)

B. Rajasekhar Reddy — 2025-10-04

Cauliflower is an important vegetable crop grown commercially in India. Information on molecular markers along with linkage map construction is a prerequisite for molecular breeding. The present investigation was carried at the Division of Vegetable Science, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110012, India, to study the variability of 66 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) developed in downy mildew resistance programme using 119 SSR markers. Among these, SSR markers, six were found to be polymorphic between the parents and finally five markers were polymorphic among the RILs. The cluster analysis using the UPGMA method showed six clusters at a 0.38 Jaccard dissimilarity coefficient. The clustering of RILs allocated 12 RILs outside cluster of both parents revealing differentiation of the RILs studied. The cluster I had maximum number of RILs (37) while cluster VI had only one RIL. It is concluded that these five markers i.e., Na12G12, Ol11G11, FIT0043, BoSF 376, and BoSF 2079 can further be used to link different trait in cauliflower.

Brinjal Grafting on Wild Rootstocks to Enhance Growth, Yield, Fruit Quality and Nutrient Uptake

Reshma A — 2025-10-07

The present study was undertaken at Dr. YSR Horticultural University, College of Horticulture, Anantharajupeta, Annamayya district of Andhra Pradesh, to investigate the effect of grafting brinjal cultivar Manjushree onto three wild Solanum rootstocks (Solanum torvum, S. gilo, and S. indicum). The research aimed to evaluate their influence on plant growth, yield performance, fruit quality parameters, and nutrient uptake efficiency. Data was recorded and statistically analysis revealed significant differences among the treatments. Plants grafted onto wild Solanum rootstocks exhibited superior growth attributes such as increased plant height and higher crop growth rate, along with enhanced yield characteristics including greater average fruit weight. In addition, notable improvements were observed in soil nutrient dynamics and plant nutrient uptake, particularly with respect to available phosphorus and potassium absorption. The enhanced nutrient utilization efficiency of grafted plants contributed to better growth and productivity outcomes. Fruit quality parameters also showed positive responses to grafting, further confirming its role in improving the marketable quality of produce. These findings are in agreement with earlier reports highlighting the beneficial effects of grafting in vegetable crops for improving vigour, yield, and stress tolerance. Overall, the study establishes grafting of brinjal onto wild Solanum rootstocks as a promising horticultural practice, capable of enhancing crop productivity, improving fruit quality, and imparting resilience against biotic and abiotic stresses, thereby contributing to sustainable vegetable production systems.

Between Duty and Distress: A Study on Health Status and Multidimensional Challenges Faced by Anganwadi Workers during COVID-19 Pandemic

Preeti — 2025-10-07

The COVID-19 pandemic placed unprecedented demands on frontline community workers, and Anganwadi workers (AWWs) in India emerged as crucial community-level agents in mitigating the crisis. This study explores the intersection of professional responsibilities and personal vulnerabilities experienced by Anganwadi workers during the pandemic.

Methodology: The study was conducted in Hisar, Haryana, India. Two blocks in the state of Haryana's Hisar district were used for the study. Ten villages were covered in order to randomly choose 100 Anganwadi workers. The villages were chosen by random sampling, and Anganwadi staff were reached by chain technique. Survey was used to investigate their physical and mental health conditions alongside the public, psychological, and occupational challenges they confronted.

Result: Findings reveal that Anganwadi workers face public problems in record maintenances, delivery of home take ration and lack of help from community side and feel heavy work load in working of multiple departments and felt fear of infection in COVID-19 period. In health status, all most all the Anganwadi workers felt the need of restorative tonic and ever felt exhausted. Majority of Anganwadi workers had headaches. In anxiety more than half of the anganwadi workers felt nervous and in bed mood, some of the Anganwadi workers had lost their sleep and scared for no reason. In social dysfunction, the Anganwadi workers was not satisfied the way they did.

Conclusion: By capturing the lived realities of Anganwadi workers, this study advocates for the institutionalization of protective measures and capacity-building efforts to enhance resilience among frontline workers in low-resource settings.

Effect of Liquid Biofertilizer Seed Treatments on Growth and Development of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Aparna Jyoti — 2025-10-07

This study evaluates the impact of various liquid biofertilizer seed treatments, including single and combined applications of Azospirillum, KSB (Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria), PSB (Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria), Pseudomonas, and Thiram on wheat growth parameters and phenological stages. Field emergence, plant establishment, chlorophyll content, leaf area index (LAI), spike emergence, heading, plant height, and crop maturity days were assessed. Results reveal significant improvements in emergence, growth, and accelerated phenology with biofertilizer treatments, especially combinations of Azospirillum with KSB and PSB, compared to the control and Thiram-treated seeds. Combined biofertilizer application yielded the highest emergence (93.33%), leaf area (5.16), and shortest crop maturity duration (118.83 days). These findings indicate that strategic biofertilizer co-inoculations promote early establishment, robust growth, and enable faster crop maturity in wheat.

Determining Factors for the Ethnomedical Practices Followed by Tribal People: An Exploratory Study

M.S.Chaitanya Kumari — 2025-10-08

In view of the effectiveness of age old persistent ethnomedical practices, the present study is considered to bring out the information on determining factors for the ethnomedical practices followed by tribal people of Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh. Exploratory research design was adopted for the study. Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh was purposively selected. Three villages from each mandal were selected randomly that make a sample of six villages for the study. A sample of 120 tribal respondents with minimum age of 40 years were selected purposively. A total of 120 ethnomedical practices of the tribals were collected in health management three specified disciplines namely human, animal and plant. Among these 120 ethnomedical practices 60 practices were on human health, 40 practices were on animal health and 20 practices were on plant health. Data pertaining to source of information for ethno medical practices revealed that family was ranked I for getting information, while in the context of contributing factors for continuing ethnomedical practices it was found that majority of the tribal respondents had high (70.00 %) mass media exposure, medium religious belief and medium (56.00 %) level of fatalism. Most (42.50%) of the tribal respondents had medium level of extension contact. The determining factors will certainly benefit the scientific community to understand the root causes for the strong belief and continuation of ethnomedicine since ages.

Enhancing Capsicum Production and Water Efficiency through Drip Irrigation in Rooftop Gardens

Dinesh Kumar — 2025-10-08

Rooftop gardening has gained popularity as an urban agricultural method in various countries, including India. However, the high temperatures and increased evapotranspiration rates on rooftops require much higher water for crops compared to traditional ground-based farming which leads to a significant challenge in water management. To address these concerns, there is a need for cost-effective and efficient irrigation systems to improve production in urban rooftop gardens. An experiment was conducted at the Academic Building of the College of Agricultural Engineering, Ara, Bihar, from November 2024 to March 2025, to assess the performance of drip irrigation on the growth and yield of Indra Capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.). The study was designed using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with six replications, and significant differences were observed across various treatment methods. The results showed that the drip irrigation system led to higher plant growth, including increased plant height, more leaves, flowers, and average fruits per plant (21.3), as well as improved fruit length (67.2 mm), fruit weight (79.81g), and overall yield per plant (3.52 kg/plant). Compared to conventional irrigation methods, drip irrigation saved approximately 75%-80% of water, with a water use efficiency of 9.2 kg/m³. Additionally, the yield of Indra Capsicum was found to increase by 10-15% under drip irrigation, surpassing the potential yield observed with traditional methods. Overall, the drip irrigation system proved to be an effective solution for enhancing Capsicum production in rooftop gardens, demonstrating both water conservation and increased yield.

Seedling Resistance of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Varieties to Virulent Races of Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici

PR Lakde — 2025-10-08

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a globally important staple crop and a primary source of food, feed, and income for millions of people. One of the most threatening diseases is stem rust, caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici, which has re-emerged as a serious concern in many wheat-growing regions. The Puccinia species that cause wheat rusts are extremely dynamic and constantly evolving, producing new isolates by somatic recombination, introduction, mutation and selection. The present study (2024–25) was conducted at the Regional Wheat Rust Research Station, Mahabaleshwar, to evaluate the reaction of twenty-three wheat varieties against stem rust disease under controlled glasshouse conditions. Disease response was assessed using Peterson’s Scale, which classified the genotypes into six reaction categories based on their interaction with different stem rust pathotypes. Among the tested varieties, NIAW 1415 and NIAW 3624 exhibited a high level of resistance, showing effective defense against most stem rust pathotypes. Seven varieties viz., NIAW 4028, NIAW 34, NI 5643, NIAW 917, NI 917, Jay and NIAW 3170, demonstrated moderate resistance, suggesting their potential for stable performance under disease pressure. In contrast, five varieties viz., NI 345, NI 9947, Niphad-4, N 5439 and NIAW 301 were highly susceptible, indicating their vulnerability to stem rust epidemics. The remaining nine varieties displayed mixed reactions, with varying susceptibility across stem rust pathotypes. Overall, the findings emphasize the importance of promoting resistant and moderately resistant varieties for cultivation and highlight their potential utility in breeding programs aimed at developing new stem rust resistant wheat varieties.

Estimation of Soaked California Bearing Ratio of Soil Using Machine Learning Methods

Suman Markuna — 2025-10-08

Unstable soil-related disasters are a concern for modern urbanization and development. Hence, it is necessary to stabilize the soil and estimate the geotechnical properties using advanced methodologies, one of the best-suited methods for safe ground to construct any infrastructure. Accordingly, this study has provided machine learning techniques, namely Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), Support Vector Regression (SVR), Multivariate Adaptive Regression Splines (MARS), and Random Forest (RF), to estimate the CBR_s of soil. The dataset used in the study comprised 15 observations. The data consists of input variables including the percentages of fly ash (%FA), cement (%C), and coir fiber (%CF), along with optimum moisture content (OMC), maximum dry density (MDD), and soaked California Bearing Ratio (CBR). The dataset is divided into a training set (55% of the total data) and a testing set (45%). The performance of the developed models was achieved using root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), correlation coefficient (r), and volumetric efficiency (VE). For the training set, MLR achieved RMSE = 1.34, MAE = 1.08, r = 1.00, and VE = 0.96, while MARS recorded 7.06, 6.03, 0.92, and 0.77, respectively. In the testing set, MLR again outperformed with 0.86, 0.80, 1.00, and 0.98, compared to MARS, which obtained 3.22, 2.59, 0.99, and 0.92. This study introduces a novel approach by evaluating the predictive capabilities of linear and non-linear machine learning algorithms for soaked CBR estimation using a limited geotechnical dataset, thereby providing insights into model robustness and reliability in data-constrained scenarios.

The Use of Azolla with Concentrate in Buffalo Feeding: Effects on Milk Production, Growth, Reproduction, and Milk Composition in Hanumangarh District, Rajasthan, India

Upendra Kumar — 2025-10-08

This study investigated the effects of Azolla supplementation on the productivity, milk composition, reproductive performance, and economics of lactating Murrah and Nili-Ravi buffaloes in Hanumangarh district, Rajasthan, a semi-arid region. Forty lactating buffaloes and twenty buffalo calves were randomly assigned to four groups, with Azolla supplementation levels of 0% (Control), 10% (T1), 15% (T2), and 20% (T3) in their concentrate mixture. The study lasted 90 days for buffaloes and 3 months for calves. The basal diet consisted of green fodder (sorghum/berseem) and dry fodder (wheat straw), with Azolla partially replacing the concentrate mixture. Results indicated that Azolla supplementation significantly increased milk yield, with T3 (20% Azolla) yielding 9.1 L/day, compared to 7.8 L/day in the control group. Milk composition also improved, with significant increases in fat, protein, and SNF content in the T2 and T3 groups. Reproductive parameters showed marked improvement, including reduced service period (120–125 days), improved conception rate (78–80%), and shortened calving interval (405–410 days) in Azolla-fed groups. Calf growth performance also benefitted from Azolla supplementation, with calves in the T3 group gaining 34.5 kg over 3 months, compared to 25.8 kg in the control group. Feed efficiency was enhanced, with feed conversion ratio (FCR) improving from 10.5 kg DM/kg gain in the control group to 8.2 kg DM/kg gain in the T3 group. Azolla supplementation also reduced feed costs, decreasing the cost of milk production from ₹23.1/L in the control group to ₹20.3/L in the T3 group, while net returns per buffalo increased from ₹240/day to ₹272/day. This study demonstrates that Azolla supplementation, particularly at 15–20%, can significantly improve milk production, reproductive efficiency, calf growth, and economic profitability in buffaloes. Azolla is a promising, cost-effective feed resource that can replace expensive protein concentrates, especially in semi-arid regions with limited feed resources.

Detecting Mean Shifts in a Class of Time Series CHARN Models with Application to Financial Data

Youssef SALMAN — 2025-10-09

In this paper, we propose a fully automated method for detecting changes in the mean of piecewise Conditional Heteroskedastic Autoregressive Nonlinear (CHARN) models. Detecting weak changes, those of small magnitude, is crucial in financial and economic applications, where they may signal important structural breaks. Our approach combines an adaptive model selection algorithm with a robust break detection procedure based on local power estimation. By dynamically selecting the most appropriate model for each stationary segment, the method reduces false alarms and improves sensitivity to subtle transitions. Applied to financial datasets such as the S&P 500 and FTSE 100 indices, the algorithm operates automatically and not only reproduces known breakpoints documented in the literature, but also uncovers previously undetected structural changes. These additional findings correspond to meaningful real-world events, highlighting the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed framework for analyzing financial time series and its potential value for financial stability, trading strategies, and risk management.

Empowerment through Enterprise: A Study of Women Entrepreneurs’ Social, Economic, and Profitability Status in Telangana, India

B. Spandana — 2025-10-09

Women entrepreneurs are increasingly recognised as critical contributors to global socio-economic development. It has become a vital contributor to socio-economic development, particularly in regional economies such as Telangana. This study assesses the empowerment of women entrepreneurs across three districts of Telangana, focusing on social, economic, and entrepreneurial dimensions, along with overall empowerment and profitability levels. A total of 180 respondents formed the sample, and data were collected through a structured survey. A structured survey was conducted, and respondents were categorised into low, medium, and high empowerment groups. The collected data were analysed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS), version 16.0. Appropriate statistical techniques were applied to interpret the findings and draw meaningful conclusions. Findings revealed that the majority of women entrepreneurs exhibited medium levels of social (47.22%), economic (51.67%), and entrepreneurial empowerment (50.00%), with overall empowerment also concentrated at the medium level (59.44%). Profitability analysis showed that most respondents (66.11%) reported profit margins between 60–78%. Furthermore, ICT usage was found to be significantly and positively correlated with all components of empowerment—social (r = 0.320**), economic (r = 0.211**), entrepreneurial (r = 0.253**), overall empowerment (r = 0.321**), and profitability (r = 0.275**)—at the 1% level of significance. These results highlight the crucial role of ICT in enhancing empowerment and profitability by improving access to resources, strengthening decision-making, and enabling business growth. The study concludes that while women entrepreneurs in Telangana are moderately empowered, greater policy support, training, and ICT adoption can facilitate their advancement, thereby contributing to inclusive and sustainable regional development.

Comparative in vitro Antioxidant Efficacy of Tinospora cordifolia Stem Extracts and Fractions Versus Berberine

Poonamdeep Kaur — 2025-10-09

Introduction: Tinospora cordifolia is a well-known medicinal plant in traditional Indian medicine, valued for its rich phytochemical composition. Among its therapeutic properties, its antioxidant potential has gained attention for possible health and medicinal applications.

Methods: The study evaluated the antioxidant capacity of methanolic stem extracts of T. cordifolia and its bioactive compound, berberine. Five standard in vitro assays were employed: DPPH, hydroxyl radical, nitric oxide, superoxide scavenging, and ferric reducing antioxidant power. The activity of methanol extracts was compared with fractions prepared using chloroform, dichloromethane, and hexane.

Results: The methanol extract demonstrated significantly higher antioxidant activity than the other fractions, with activity increasing in a concentration-dependent manner (0.02–0.1 mg/mL). The antioxidant effect of the methanol extract was comparable to that of isolated berberine, indicating that both possess strong free radical scavenging properties.

Conclusion: The findings confirm that T. cordifolia stems are a rich source of antioxidant phytochemicals. Both the methanolic extract and berberine show potential as natural antioxidant agents, supporting their possible use in medicinal formulations.

Impact of Jeevamrutha and Beejamrutha Application along with Inorganic Fertilisers on Biological Properties in the Soil and Maximisation of Yield in Pearl Millet

Taniya Mistri — 2025-10-10

The present study observation on the synergistic effects of inorganic fertilizers combined with Jeevamrutha and Beejamrutha on soil microbial and enzymatic properties in pearl millet cultivation during 2023 and 2024. The experiment assessed key soil parameters, including dehydrogenase, urease, and phosphatase activities, as well as microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN), microbial biomass carbon (MBC), and populations of nitrogen fixers, phosphorus solubilizers, and actinomycetes at 0-20 cm soil depth. Results demonstrated that the integrated application of Jeevamrutha and Beejamrutha with inorganic fertilizers significantly enhanced soil microbial activity across all parameters studied. The highest dehydrogenase and urease activities were observed in treatments with 100% RDF + Jeevamrutha + Beejamrutha (T11), reaching 62 µg TPF g^-1 soil^-1 day^-1 and 61 µg NH₄⁺-N g^-1 soil hr^-1 in 2023, respectively. Similarly, microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen also increased significantly in T11, with values of 381 µg C g^-1 soil and 46 µg N g^-1 soil in 2023. The integration of organic amendments improved nutrient cycling, microbial biomass, and overall soil fertility. These findings indicate that combining organic bioenhancers with conventional inorganic fertilizers offers a promising approach to enhancing soil health and sustainability in agricultural practices.

Technical and Economic Assessment of a Tractor Operated Boom Sprayer on Tomato Crop

Omkar Gupta — 2025-10-10

Efficient pesticide application is essential for sustainable agriculture, especially in large-scale farms where manual spraying is labor-intensive and inconsistent. This study evaluates the performance of a tractor-operated boom sprayer under laboratory and field conditions. Key operational parameters such as nozzle discharge rate, spray uniformity, field capacity, efficiency, and fuel consumption were analyzed. Laboratory tests indicated nozzle discharge increased with pressure, with uniform spray coverage achieved at 3-4 kg/cm². Field evaluations on tomato crops revealed an effective field capacity of 1.27 – 1.84 ha/hr, field efficiency between 78–85%, and a fuel consumption rate of 2.24–2.4 l/hr. The estimated operational cost ranged between INR 265 – 384 per hectare, significantly lower than manual spraying costs. Results demonstrate that the boom sprayer ensures uniform pesticide application, reduces labor requirements, and enhances operational efficiency, making it suitable for medium to large-scale farms. While the findings are crop and region-specific, they highlight the potential of tractor operated sprayers as a sustainable mechanization tool. Future integration with precision agriculture technologies, such as variable rate nozzles and IoT enabled monitoring systems, could further enhance its efficiency and sustainability.

Development of a Predictive Model for Parametric Standardization of Methanol Recovery from Transesterified Oil

Sanjay K. Choudhary — 2025-10-10

The biodiesel production process is carried out world over by using methanol and a suitable catalyst. Methanol is highly toxic and hazardous to nature hence it is beneficial if methanol is removed from Biodiesel before its use. The present study on Development of a Predictive Model for Parametric Standardization of Methanol Recovery from Transesterified Oil was carried out with major emphasis on maximum recovery of methanol from biodiesel before separation of glycerol. The standardized parametric conditions for highest recovery of methanol as predicted by the model are temperature of distillation as 90 ⁰C, vacuum pressure as 121.5 mm of Hg, time of distillation as 27.8 min. and circulating water temperature through condenser as 10 ⁰C. The model predicted 28.7 g methanol recovery at above condition. The predicted value of methanol recovery was found close to the actual amount of methanol recovered (28.8 g) at the optimized parametric conditions indicating high accuracy of the developed model. The recovery of methanol has been found significantly affected by distillation temperature, vacuum pressure and time of distillation.

Sustainable Processing of Banana Agro-waste: Development and Evaluation of a Banana Stem Fiber Extraction Machine

Kailashkumar B — 2025-10-11

Banana cultivation generates approximately 30–40 million tons of agro-waste globally each year, with pseudo-stems constituting a significant portion. These pseudo-stems are a rich source of high-strength natural fibers, yet they remain largely underutilized, often discarded as waste. Banana fiber has garnered attention for its biodegradability, tensile strength, and potential applications in textiles, composites, and eco-friendly products. This study presents the design, fabrication, and performance evaluation of a mechanized banana stem fiber extractor aimed at addressing the limitations of labor-intensive manual extraction methods. The developed machine features a robust frame, AC motor, rollers, pulleys, and metal stripping components, designed to ensure durability, user safety, and optimal fiber yield. Critical design parameters—including roller diameter, blade geometry, motor rating, and belt coupling—were systematically optimized to achieve reliable operation, minimize fiber breakage, and reduce processing time. The comparative performance tests revealed that the mechanized extractor produced a fiber yield of 65–70%, substantially higher than the 47–50% yield obtained manually. Labor requirements decreased from 2–5 operators to a single user, while processing time per kilogram of pseudo-stem was reduced from 21 minutes to 6 minutes. Waste generation dropped from 50–55% to 25–30%, demonstrating improved resource efficiency. The extracted fibers were uniform in size and quality, suitable for diverse industrial applications. By converting agricultural residues into high-value materials, the mechanized extractor supports sustainable practices, rural income diversification, and scalable green manufacturing. This study highlights the transformative potential of banana fiber mechanization, contributing to environmental sustainability and economic development in banana-growing communities. The findings underscore the importance of integrating technological innovation with agro-waste management to create eco-friendly and economically viable solutions.

Income Distribution of Dry Farming Households in the Kurnool District Andhra Pradesh, India

Mounika Metla — 2025-10-11

Reliance on monsoons and rainfed cultivation makes it highly susceptible to risks and uncertainties. Around 56% of the nation’s cultivated land is under dryland farming, which sustains a large share of rural households. In Andhra Pradesh, where dry farming is widespread, recurring environmental instability and economic vulnerability significantly impact farming families. This study analyses income distribution and inequality among dry farming households in Kurnool district using the Lorenz curve and Gini coefficient. Findings indicate that livestock serves as the primary income source for all categories, while larger landholders have greater access to non-farm income opportunities. Expanding access to technology, promoting diversification, and creating non-farm income avenues are essential for building resilience and ensuring greater equity among dryland farming households.

Factors Influencing Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Assam Lemon (Citrus limon L.) Growers

Kamalika Swargiary — 2025-10-13

Introduction: Citrus crops are widely cultivated all over the world. Citrus fruits belong to the Rutaceae family, comprises a diverse range of species such as sweet orange, mandarin, acid lime, pomelo, Assam lemon, grapefruit, tangelo etc.

Aims: The present study aimed to investigate the socio-economic, personal, and farm-related factors that influence the entrepreneurial behaviour of Assam lemon (Citrus limon L. Burm) growers in Tinsukia district of Assam. The objective was to identify the key determinants contributing to variations in entrepreneurial traits among growers and to examine the extent of their influence.

Study Design: The study followed an exploratory-cum-descriptive research design.

Place and Duration of Study: The investigation was conducted in Tinsukia district of Assam, covering selected villages under major Assam lemon-growing areas. Primary data were collected from 120 growers during the two years of the study.

Methodology: A purposive-cum-random sampling technique was applied to select 120 respondents. Data were gathered using a structured interview schedule. Statistical tools such as correlation and multiple regression analysis were employed to study the relationship between the dependent variable and independent variables.

Results: The findings revealed that operational landholding, area under Assam lemon, production, annual family income, income derived from Assam lemon, years of cultivation experience, training exposure, and marketing experience exhibited significant positive correlation with entrepreneurial behaviour. Education and family type also showed significant association. Multiple regression analysis identified education level, total family income, and training exposure as the most influential predictors, explaining 77.10% of the variance in entrepreneurial behaviour. The results highlight the importance of capacity building, market linkage strengthening, and value addition interventions to enhance entrepreneurial orientation among Assam lemon growers.

Uses of Rice-based Supplementary Nutritive Fortified Food for the Healthy Growth of Infants

Toslima Sultana Begum — 2025-10-14

Background: Maternal nutrition significantly influences fetal development; inadequate intake can lead to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), low birth weight, and increased risk of preterm birth and children who experience under-nutrition are at a higher risk of delayed neuro-cognitive development and increased mortality rates.

Aim: The study aimed to develop formulae for wholesome infant foods based on locally available foods, which would fulfil their nutritional needs.

Methodology: Two villages were chosen for adoption, specifically Vill. HahsoraChetiya Goan and Vill. Bharalua, Dekhowmukh, under the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sivasagar, during the year 2020-2021.

The supplementary feeding formulas were developed in village homes, and the products were delivered to thirty (30) mothers with infants aged between six (6) months and twenty-four (24) months. The 100gm formula consists of 70 gm parboiled rice powder, 20gm green gram dal powder,5gm groundnut powder and 5 gm carrot powder. In formulating the feeding formulae WHO (World Health Organisation) Infant and Young Child Feeding Guidelines of 68% carbohydrates.15 % protein, 7-10% fat, 2-5% ash and 2-5 % fibre with an energy value of about 400kcal per 100 g of flour were thoroughly followed. The chosen babies enjoyed the developed products in both sweet and savoury flavours. Observation method was used to see the adoption of the technology among selected beneficiary and their skills in preparing the developed SFF with the help of an observation checklist.

Results: The sample babies consumed the developed products with sweet and salty flavours. In storage quality observation, the microbial counts of the food samples were found satisfactory after two months. The storage period of the product showed no significant effect. The control supplementary feeding does not provide the required amount of protein as per the recommended dietary allowances for weaning food. The value of various minerals, viz. calcium and iron are 39.988 and 1.942 mg/100 g product, respectively. The developed SFF was also enriched with protein (11.435 gm/100g), fibre (1.416gm/100g), and fat (2.973gm/100g), which is important in combating malnourishment among children below 5 years of age. Sensory characteristics were found satisfactory through organoleptic testing. A total of 89.9 per cent of mothers use the rice-based supplementary feeding fortified with carrots. All the sample mothers were able to prepare the product at the household level.

Conclusion: A rice-based supplementary feeding that is culturally accepted, affordable, easy to prepare, and safe has gained popularity among the rural population of Assam and may contribute to the reduction of protein-energy malnutrition.

Attributes of Agricultural Graduates about ELP Programme

Sher Singh Bochalya — 2025-10-14

The Experiential Learning Program seeks to increase technical skills and competence through hands-on training, as well as establish trust and the capacity to work in a project mode and gain business management skills. The study aims to examine the attributes of agricultural graduates in the ELP Programme. The curriculum has given a new direction to the undergraduate programme, which will grow thoughtful, skilled, expert managers, and human resources in the areas of agriculture, veterinary, horticulture, forestry, and other allied disciplines, with an approach of "Learning by Doing" and "Seeing by Believing." The following are the key goals of the Experiential Learning Program (ELP). The present study was undertaken in five agricultural universities in Rajasthan about the ELP programme. An ex-post-facto research design was used in the present study. A total of 111 agriculture graduates were selected in 5 universities through organic production technology, and 113 agriculture graduates were selected through poultry production technology. Thus, a total of 224 agriculture graduates were selected for the study. The results revealed that the maximum, i.e. 67.86 per cent, responder had medium level exposure to agricultural enterprises, followed by 19.64 per cent responders having exposure to high agricultural enterprises, and only 12.50 per cent responders had low exposure to agricultural enterprises, respectively. It was observed that thirteen personal characteristics selected, such that Gender, Awareness about ELP participants, Innovativeness, Academic performance, Goal orientation, Leadership ability, Risk orientation, Knowledge of Government policies and programmes related to Agribusiness, Participation in extra-curricular activity, knowledge of communication technology, Exposure to various Agricultural Enterprises and Exposure to various Agricultural Enterprises outlook were about agriculture graduates. It was observed that the majority of the participants were in the 47.77% of the participants, and mothers' occupation 79.97% in the housewife category. The majority of communication technology, 67.86% in total communication technology, the Majority of Agricultural enterprises, 67.86% in total Agricultural enterprises.

Productivity Dynamics of the Indian Food Processing Industry: A Total Factor Productivity Approach

Cheela Soumya — 2025-10-14

Indian food processing sector, with its significant contribution to the value addition, employment generation, and in international trade, is still at nascent stage of development processing only 10 per cent of total agricultural output. Hence, to gain insights into the productivity improvements, the study attempted to assess Total Factor Productivity of Indian food processing industry by employing the data collected from Annual Survey of Industries for its various sub-sectors from 2008-09 to 2019-20. Widely used technological framework of Cobb- Douglas production function was utilized to analyse the data. The results revealed that, India’s organized food processing sector was continued to be dominated by traditional sectors with blooming non-traditional sectors. Analysis of output elasticities revealed that most of the sub-sectors were largely driven by capital expansion and further, results on TFP growth unveiled heterogeneity pattern of productivity gains with macaroni processing units registering highest productivity improvement. The dairy sub-sector showed negative TFP growth and coupled with decreasing returns to scale, indicated efficiency gaps while meat and bakery sub-sectors with positive TFP growth and increasing returns to scale exhibited untapped scale potential. This mixed productivity pattern highlighted the need for targeted policy interventions focused on technological diffusion, strengthening supply chain efficiency, skill development, and sustainability rather than merely on augmenting production.

While the current study analysed the productivity dynamics of the organized food processing sector, the same can be extended to unorganized processing units, which hold significant potential for rural employment generation and income diversification. Further, exploration on policy impact, supply-chain constraints, technology adoption and resource use efficiency can provide deeper insights into the sector wide productivity.

Economics of Growth Production of Indigenous Chicken Fed Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS) with or without Supplementation of Exogenous Enzyme

Ashim Kumar Saikia — 2025-10-14

Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), a byproduct of ethanol production process, have been utilized as a potential feed component in the diets of livestock and poultry, as a source of both energy and protein. This study evaluated the effects of feeding DDGS, replacing maize and soybean, with or without exogenous multi-enzyme supplementation on the growth performance and economics of indigenous chickens. A total of 180, 21-day-old indigenous chicks were randomly assigned to six groups (T1–T6) of 30 birds each. Groups T1, T3, and T5 received basal diets containing 0, 10, and 20% DDGS, respectively, while T2, T4, and T6 were fed the same diets supplemented with a multi-enzyme preparation. All birds were reared for 182 days. Results showed that the highest final body weight was observed in the T2 group (1643.93 ± 25.22 g) and the lowest in the T5 group (1580.00 ± 14.50 g), with no significant differences (P>0.05) among groups in regards to total body weight gain, daily gain or feed conversion ratio. Feed cost per kilogram live weight gain was reduced by up to 11% in DDGS-fed groups compared to the control. Overall, inclusion of DDGS up to 20% in indigenous chicken diets, with or without enzyme supplementation, maintained growth performance while improving economic efficiency. It is concluded that DDGS can be included in indigenous chicken diets up to 20% level to reduce production costs and support sustainable backyard poultry farming.

Influence of Bio-enhancers and Bio-fertilizers on Physical and Biochemical Traits of Aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) cv. NA-7

Sarfaraj — 2025-10-14

The present investigation was carried out on 22-year-old aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.; variety NA-7) trees during the years 2023 and 2024 at Kalyanpur Nursery, Department of Fruit Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur. The design of the experiment was randomized block design with three replications involving ten treatment combinations formed by applications of Azotobacter, PSB, Amritpani, Jeevamrit and Panchagavya. Significant improvements were recorded on the growth, flowering and yield traits, with T₉ (Azotobactor(5 g/tree) + PSB (50 g/tree + Amritpani (10 %) + Panchagavya (5 %) consistently outperforming others. Among the evaluated treatments, T₉ (Azotobactor(5 g/tree) + PSB (50 g/tree +Amritpani (10 %) + Panchagavya (5 %) exhibited the highest performance in key physical and biochemical traits, recording highest fruit length (3.82, 3.93 and 3.88cm), fruit diameter (4.34, 4.43 and 4.39cm), fruit volume (33.42, 33.38 and 33.40cc), pulp weight (33.89, 35.13 and 34.51g), fruit weight (35.41, 36.62 and 36.02 g), specific gravity (1.16, 1.17 and 1.17 g/cm³) and pulp: stone ratio (22.30, 22.33 and 22.32) and lowest stone weight (1.52, 1.50 and 1.51g), stone diameter (1.92, 1.93 and 1.92 cm). Among varous biochemical traits, fruits in T₉ also results in the highest total soluble solids (10.46, 10.55 and 10.51 ⁰Brix), total sugars (5.47, 5.52 and 5.50%), total soluble solids: acid ratio (6.41, 6.55 and 6.48), fruit juice (64.36, 64.73 and 64.55%), ascorbic acid (547.53, 549.11 and 548.32 mg), and total phenolic acid (170.24, 170.28 and 170.26 mg/100g) respectively, with minimum tanin content (2.12, 2.16 and 2.14%), titratable acidity (1.63, 1.61 and 1.62% respectively) during both rears of investigation and when data were pooled for both years in the plains of north India.

Effect of Culture Media on Cultural and Morphological Characteristics of Sclerotium rolfsii

Vijaya D. Hatagale — 2025-10-14

The present study was undertaken to assess the influence of different culture media on the mycelial growth and cultural characteristics of Sclerotium rolfsii, an important soil-borne pathogen responsible for collar rot in several crops. Eight culture media, namely Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), Sabouraud Maltose Agar, Oat Meal Agar, Coon’s Agar, Corn Meal Agar, Ashby’s Mannitol Agar, Czapek’s Dox Agar, and Richard’s Agar were evaluated under in vitro conditions. Significant variation in radial growth, colony morphology and pigmentation were recorded among the tested media. Maximum mycelial growth was observed on Potato Dextrose Agar (90.00 mm), which was statistically at par with Sabouraud Maltose Agar (89.68 mm) and Oat Meal Agar (89.65 mm). Minimum growth was recorded on Czapek’s Dox Agar (67.86 mm). The colony characters ranged from cottony, fluffy, irregular to compact mycelium, while pigmentation varied from pure white to creamy and yellowish white depending on the medium. These results clearly indicate that PDA, Sabouraud Maltose Agar and Oat Meal Agar are the most suitable media for luxuriant growth and sporulation of S. rolfsii, and can be recommended for cultural variability studies, pathogenicity assays and further research on this pathogen.

Effects of Irrigation Scheduling and Foliar Application of Phosphorus, Sulphur, and Boron on the Growth Characteristics of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Pradeep Kumar — 2025-10-14

During the two successive Rabi seasons of 2023 and 2024, a field experiment was carried out at the Students Instructional Farm, Department of Agronomy, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur (U.P.). to evaluate the effects of irrigation scheduling and foliar application of phosphorus, sulphur, and boron on Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.). The trial was arranged in a split plot design with three replications, assigning irrigation levels to main plots and nutrient management practices to sub-plots. Irrigation treatments included: I₁ (no irrigation), I₂ (one irrigation at pre-flowering), and I₃ (two irrigations at pre-flowering and siliqua development). Nutrient treatments consisted of T₁ (RDF 120:60:40 NPK), T₂ (RDF + foliar sulphur 2%), T₃ (RDF + foliar boron 0.2%), T₄ (RDF + foliar sulphur + boron), and T₅ (RDF + foliar sulphur + boron + nano phosphorus 0.5% applied at 30 and 45 DAS). Mustard variety Azad Mahak was sown on November 2^nd, 2023, and November 4^th, 2024, with harvests on March 26^th, 2024, and March 29^th, 2025. Recorded growth parameters showed that higher plant height, leaf area index, dry matter accumulation, branches per plant, days to 50% flowering, and maturity were achieved under I₃irrigation and T₅ nutrient management.

Extent of Market Integration and Price Discovery in Major Castor Markets of India

Kamal Kishor Jalthariya — 2025-10-15

This study explored the integration and price discovery processes among major castor markets in India, a critical factor for enhancing marketing efficiency and providing reliable price signals. This attempt focussed on five major castor wholesale markets, viz., Kurnool, Thara, Patan, Sumerpur, and Adoni, alongside national spot and futures markets. The daily prices data pertaining to the selected markets were sourced from AGMARKNET and NCDEX, spanning from April 2015 to March 2024, and for the analysis, the daily data converted to average monthly prices. To examine the relationship among these markets, a series of econometric techniques including Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) test, Johansen cointegration, Vector Error Correction Model (VECM), and Granger causality tests were employed. All the markets were found to be stationary upon first differencing (I=1), with the lag order selection of one. The long run integration among the markets was confirmed with five co-integrating equations. It is also revealed that all the markets, even after demonstrating short-run deviations, are self-correcting, with prices consistently reverting to their original long-run equilibrium within one month to the extent of 40 per cent in Kurnool and 12 per cent each in Adoni and spot markets. In terms of price discovery, though bidirectional causality was acutely absent, unidirectional effect was observed among ten market pairs. Overall, the study revealed that the castor markets of Thara and Adoni as the role of price leader, while Kurnool market emerged as a price taker. The study will be of immense help to farmers and policymakers as the emerging price signals among the integrated markets can help in enhancing farmers’ decision-making besides accelerating overall market efficiency.

Performance of Field Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Genotypes against Pod Borer (Helicoverpa armigera Hübner)

Subhashree Patnaik — 2025-10-15

The present study evaluated the resistance of sixteen field pea (Pisum sativum L.) genotypes, including the reference genotype FPD 21-148, against Helicoverpa armigera, a destructive pod borer pest causing significant yield losses, in Sehore district, Malwa region, Madhya Pradesh, during the Rabi season 2021-22. Screening was conducted under field conditions, and pest incidence was monitored from pod initiation to till harvesting by recorded the weekly mean larval population from ten randomly selected plants per genotype. At harvest, pod damage percentage and grain yield were assessed on three plants per genotype. Results revealed that FPD 21-150, FPD 21-151, FPD 21-155, and FPD 21-159 were moderately susceptible, whereas FPD 21-148, FPD 21-149, and FPD 21-158 exhibited the least susceptibility to infestation of pod borer, H. armigera. The remaining genotypes were highly susceptible. The larval population was lowest in FPD 21-148 (2.22 larvae/plant) and highest in FPD 21-154 (4.78 larvae/plant). Grain yield ranged from 2815 kg/ha (FPD 21-148) to 1045 kg/ha (FPD 21-154), while pod damage varied from 23.09% to 41.81%, respectively. A strong negative association was observed between infestation level and yield. The findings emphasize the potential of incorporating host plant resistance into integrated pest management for sustainable field pea cultivation.

Influence of Tillage and Weed Management Practices on Growth Performance and Soil Nutrient Status of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in Central Plains of Uttar Pradesh

Abhishek Mishra — 2025-10-16

Wheat productivity and soil health in the Indo-Gangetic Plains are increasingly challenged by intensive tillage practices and weed infestation, which degrade soil structure, reduce nutrient availability and lower yield sustainability. To address these challenges, the present investigation was conducted during two consecutive Rabi (winter) seasons of 2022–23 and 2023–24 at the Students’ Instructional Farm, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur (U.P.), to evaluate the effect of tillage and weed management practices on growth, yield, and soil properties of wheat. The experiment was arranged in a split-plot design with three tillage practices in the main plots, viz., zero tillage (T1), reduced tillage (T2) and conventional tillage (T3) and six weed management practices in sub-plots, namely pyroxasulfone @ 120 g/ha as pre-emergence fb clodinafop-propargyl @ 60 g/ha at 35 DAS (W1), pendimethalin @ 1000 g/ha + metribuzin @ 210 g/ha as pre-emergence (W2), clodinafop-propargyl @ 60 g/ha + metsulfuron-methyl @ 4 g/ha at 35 DAS (W3), pinoxaden @ 50 g/ha + carfentrazone-ethyl @ 20 g/ha at 35 DAS (W4), weed-free (W5) and weedy check (W6). Pooled results revealed that zero tillage recorded the highest dry matter accumulation (80.19, 455.76, 815.58 and 937.68 g m⁻² at 30, 60, 90 DAS and harvest, respectively), closely followed by reduced tillage, while conventional tillage was lowest. Similarly, maximum tiller number was observed under zero tillage (78.46 m⁻² at harvest), statistically at par with reduced tillage. Among weed management, weed-free (973.56 g m⁻² dry matter and 83.03 tillers m⁻²) was superior, comparable with clodinafop + metsulfuron and pinoxaden + carfentrazone, whereas weedy check remained inferior. Soil fertility improved under zero tillage and weed-free conditions with higher organic carbon (0.515–0.530%) and nutrient availability, while bulk density was lowest (1.47–1.52 g cc⁻¹). Overall, zero tillage combined with effective herbicides enhanced crop growth, yield attributes, and soil properties, highlighting its potential for sustainable wheat production.

Growth, Instability and Structural Break in Millet Cultivation in Telangana, India

Shana KK — 2025-10-16

The study analysed the trends, growth, and instability of millet cultivation in Telangana from 2008–09 to 2023–24. Time-series analyses included CAGR, Coefficient of Variation, Cuddy Della Valle Index, polynomial trend fitting, and Bai–Perron multiple structural break test. The results showed a significant decline in the area under major millets; sorghum, pearl millet, and finger millet, while improvements in yield, especially after 2017–18, contributed to a production recovery. Sorghum is the major millet crop, covering nearly 95 percent of total millet area and output, whereas minor millets exhibited highly erratic cultivation but showed positive growth in production. Instability in area and production was medium to high, with minor millets being the most unstable. Structural break analysis using modified Bai-Perron test, identified shifts around 2013–14 and 2018–19, which were associated with Telangana’s formation and renewed policy emphasis on millet promotion. The study highlighted that millet trends were largely influenced by policy and institutional factors rather than natural growth trajectories. Strengthening economic incentives, assured markets, irrigation support, and value chains was identified as essential to stabilize area and production, ensuring sustainable expansion, improved food security, and enhanced farm incomes.

Optimization of Corm Size and Plant Spacing for Enhanced Yield and Marketable Corm Production in Elephant Foot Yam (Amorphophallus paeoniifolius)

C. Thangamani — 2025-10-17

Elephant foot yam is commonly propagated through seed corms and its cultivation is constrained by high seed corm requirements. There is limited information available on optimizing plant spacing and seed corm size on marketable corm yield. An experiment was conducted at the Department of Vegetable Science, HC&RI, TNAU, Coimbatore, with ten treatments and three replications, to study the effect of seed corm size and planting spacing on growth and yield of elephant foot yam. Seed corms of 100 g, 150 g, 200 g, and 750 g were planted at spacings of 30 × 30 cm, 45 × 30 cm, 45 × 45 cm, and 90 × 60 cm, respectively. Vegetative parameters were recorded at the fourth and sixth months after planting, while corm yield attributes were measured at harvest. Pooled analysis of two years of data revealed that the largest seed corm planted at the widest spacing (T10 – 750 g at 90 × 60 cm) produced the highest values for plant height (54.88 and 64.49 cm), pseudo stem girth (8.70 and 12.04 cm), and canopy spread (86.56 and 107.37 cm) at the fourth and sixth months, respectively. Similarly, T10 recorded the highest corm diameter (17.33 cm) and corm yield per plant (3.64 kg), followed by T9 (200 g at 45 × 45 cm) with 16.35 cm and 1.65 kg, respectively. The highest plot yield (26.85 kg) and estimated yield (50.40 t/ha) were recorded in T7 (200 g at 30 × 30 cm), followed by T9 with 24.21 kg plot yield and 49.50 t/ha estimated yield. T7 with the highest total yield, indicating the positive influence of higher planting density on productivity. Although the denser planting enhanced yield, its economic efficiency was slightly lower due to higher seed corm costs. However, Treatment T9 with moderate spacing (200 g corms at 45 × 45 cm) exhibited the highest benefit-cost ratio (BCR) provides an optimal balance between yield and profitability suitable for small-scale farmers.

Correlation-regression Study of Phenology, Growth, Yield Attributes, Grain Quality and Agrometeorological Indices of Gobindabhog Rice

DIBYENDU MAHATA — 2025-10-17

Gobindabhog is a native cultivar of the lower Gangetic plains and rahr (red and laterite) region of Bengal, which has been traditionally cultivated for about 400–500 years. Cereal crops are vulnerable to climate change due to their dependence on predictable temperatures, rainfall, and growing seasons. The aim of the paper is to explore a correlation-regression study of phenology, growth, yield attributes, grain quality and agrometeorological indices [growing degree days (GDD), heliothermal units (HTU), Photothermal units (PTU)] of Gobindabhog Rice. Considering this fact, a field experiment was conducted using split-plot design with 3 replications during the kharif season of 2010 and 2011 in the New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal. The results of the present study revealed strong positive correlations with GDD_4L-AT(0.756**) and GDD_AT-PI(0.610**) suggest these stages are critical for vegetative growth. Head rice recovery was positively influenced by GDD_PI-F (0.400**) and GDD_D-M(0.319**). HTU had strong positive correlations with plant height (0.589**), grain yield (0.546**), and number of panicles/m² (0.318**), but negative effects on milling %, head rice recovery, and kernel length. HTU_D-Mwas favourable for straw yield (0.320**), milling recovery (0.567**), and filled grains (0.370**), indicating strong post-harvest potential. The equation includes six predictors, such as HTU_PI-F,HTU_S-E,HTU_E-4L, PTU_D-M,PTU_Mi-D, and GDD_D-M,with most showing high significance. This implies that grain yield was strongly influenced by thermal conditions spanning from panicle initiation to the dough stage. Meanwhile, kernel morphology and sensory traits showed weaker environmental predictability, suggesting a need for genetic or non-linear modelling approaches. These insights can guide stage-specific agronomic interventions and trait prioritisation for breeding programmes.

Adoption of Zero Budget Natural Farming: An Economic Feasibility Study in Trichy District of Tamil Nadu, India

V. Nandhini — 2025-10-17

Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) was introduced by Subash Palekar, an Indian agriculturist refers to production of crops without using any external inputs. It creates the complementary and supplementary relationship among the various agricultural enterprises. With this background, a study to analyse the feasibility of ZBNF by eliciting farmer’s opinion regarding merits and demerits in the adoption was carried out. The study was conducted in Trichy district by collecting primary data using interview method. Tools like Garret ranking was used to rank the merits and demerits of ZBNF based on farmer’s opinion and cost of cultivation of paddy crop by comparing ZBNF and conventional farming (CF) was also done. Most of the farmers opined that bio-fertilizer use instead of chemical fertilizer as positive factor with a mean score of 66.93 and low yield rates as the major drawback of ZBNF with a mean score of 54.80. All the costs were high in CF compared with ZBNF. In terms of returns, net income was high in ZBNF (Rs. 14049.5) compared with CF (Rs. 11027.9). Hence, ZBNF is more feasible compared with CF. It helps to reduce the usage of chemical and sustain the soil fertility. It is one of the successful pathways to attain sustainability in agriculture.

Impact of Different Planting Methods and Weed Management Practices on Growth and Phenological Parameters of Maize (Zea mays L.)

Shivendra Singh — 2025-10-17

The experiment was conducted at the Students’ Instructional Farm, Department of Agronomy, at Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur to evaluate the performance of different planting methods and weed management practices on growth parameters and phenological parameters of Maize during the kharif seasons of 2023 and 2024. The experiment was laid down in Split-plot design with three replications. The main factors included three planting methods and subplots consists of seven weed management practices including control. Ridge and furrow planting (P₃) was found statistically superior plant height peaked at 90 days after sowing (DAS) (189.4 cm), fresh weight peaked at harvest (585.5 g), highest leaf area index (LAI) (3.98 at 60 DAS), and days to 50 % taselling and days to 50 % silking was found statistically superior in ridge and furrow planting (P₃) than conventional flatbed and broadcasted method. Among weed management treatments, the weed-free treatment (W₇) recorded highest value and among herbicidal treatment sequential application of Pyroxasulfone 85% @ 127.5 g/ha as PE fb Topramezone 33.6 SC @ 30 g/ha 25 DAS as PoE (W₅) recorded highest Plant height (193.80 cm at 90 DAS), fresh weight (441.50 g at harvest), LAI (3.98 at 60 DAS), highest days to 50 % taselling and days to 50 % silking, which was closely followed by Pyroxasulfone 85 % @ 127.5 g/ha as PE fb Tembotrione 42 % SC @ 120 g/ha 25 DAS as PoE (W₄), while the weedy check (W₆) recorded the lowest growth parameters and W₆ led to the earliest tasselling and silking among all growth stages. Interaction effects between planting and weed management were statistically non-significant across all parameters. Based on the results, ridge and furrow planting method along with Pyroxasulfone and Topramezone or Tembotrione herbicides, consistently enhanced plant growth and phenological parameters throughout the crop period, making it the most effective methods in cultivation of hybrid maize.

Integrating Remote Sensing and GIS for Irrigated Area Mapping in the Betwa River Basin, India

Vipin Kumar Mishra — 2025-10-18

Accurate mapping of irrigated and non-irrigated croplands is crucial for sustainable water resource management and agricultural planning in semi-arid regions. This study mapped irrigated areas in the Betwa River Basin (43,469 km²), a major tributary of the Yamuna, using MODIS Terra surface reflectance (MOD09Q1) data for the 2020–2021 agricultural year. A total of 45 NDVI composites (250 m resolution) were generated, and a Maximum Value Composite (MVC) approach was applied to minimize atmospheric and cloud-related noise, producing a 46-layer NDVI time-series dataset. Unsupervised classification (ISODATA with ISOCLASS clustering) was refined with ground-truth GPS points and high-resolution imagery, differentiating nine land use/land cover classes, including various irrigation regimes, rainfed agriculture, forests, and water bodies. Distinct NDVI phenological signatures revealed double-cropped irrigated systems with two peaks (July–August and February–March) and rainfed croplands with a single monsoon peak (~0.55). The classification achieved 86% overall accuracy with a kappa coefficient of 0.82. Approximately 1.28 million hectares were identified as irrigated, with spatial heterogeneity reflecting canal-fed irrigation in the northern plains, groundwater-dependent irrigation in southern uplands, and minor/tank irrigation in plateau margins. The results demonstrate that MODIS NDVI time-series provides a cost-effective, scalable approach for basin-scale irrigation mapping, supporting agricultural planning, water allocation, and sustainable water resource management. Integration with higher-resolution datasets and hydrological modeling can further enhance accuracy and decision-making.

Morphological Characterization of Colletotrichum truncatum from Diverse Agro-climatic Zones of Madhya Pradesh, India

Akshay Kumar Khare — 2025-10-18

Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum truncatum is a major constraint in soybean production, affecting leaves, stems, pods, and seeds. In the present study, ten isolates of C. truncatum were collected from ten locations across nine districts and seven agro-climatic zones of Madhya Pradesh. Their cultural and morphological characteristics were evaluated on five different media: Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), Oatmeal Agar (OMA), Corn Meal Agar (CMA), Czapek’s Dox Agar (CDA) and Richard’s Agar (RA). Colony morphology, mycelial density, sporulation, and radial growth were recorded at 2^nd, 5^th, 8^th, and 11^th days post-inoculation. Significant variability was observed among isolates and media in terms of colony texture, colour, mycelial density, and sporulation. PDA supported the fastest early growth and maximum final radial expansion, while OMA and CDA promoted vigorous sporulation. Corn Meal Agar also supported good growth and sporulation for most isolates. Richard’s Agar consistently exhibited the lowest radial growth and sparse sporulation. These findings indicate that PDA, OMA, and CMA are the most suitable media for studying growth and reproductive potential of C. truncatum, and the observed isolate-specific differences highlight considerable intraspecific variability, which may have implications for disease management and inoculum production.

Mycological Assessment and Biochemical Characterization of Commercial Broiler Feed Sold in Osun State, Nigeria

Sanusi, F. — 2025-10-18

Aims: This study aimed to identify and characterize the predominant fungal contaminants in selected commercial broiler feeds marketed in Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria, and to evaluate their potential implications for feed quality and safety.

Study Design: This was a cross-sectional, laboratory-based survey involving microbiological analysis of commercial poultry feed samples.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Plant Biology Laboratory, Department of Plant Biology, Federal University of Technology, Minna, between February and September 2024.

Methodology: Fifty-four samples of broiler feed were collected from different retail outlets across Osogbo. The samples represented three commercial brands—Chickun Feed, Top Feed, and Vital Feed—and two feed types, namely broiler starter and broiler finisher. Samples from similar categories were pooled into 18 composite samples. Each sample was serially diluted and cultured on Potato Dextrose Agar using the pour plate method. After incubation, colonies were enumerated, purified, and identified based on macroscopic and microscopic features.

Results: Fungal load in the analysed feeds ranged from 5.5 × 10³ to 8.5 × 10³ colony-forming units per gram (cfu/g), exceeding the European feed safety limit of ≤ 1 × 10³ cfu/g. The isolates obtained included Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Mucor spp. Samples collected from the Ita Olokan area showed the highest contamination levels. Aspergillus niger exhibited the highest frequency of occurrence (40%), while Mucor flavus was least prevalent (15%). All feed brands showed comparable fungal diversity, with Vital Feed having the widest distribution of isolates.

Conclusion: Commercial poultry feeds sold in Osogbo are contaminated with potentially toxigenic fungi at levels exceeding acceptable limits. Regular surveillance of poultry feeds and strict hygiene practices during storage and distribution are recommended to ensure feed safety and protect public health.

Entrepreneurial Expectations and Preferences of Agricultural Technical School Students

Prakruthi S N — 2025-10-18

The agricultural university imparts education in agriculture through a diploma program offered after matriculation under the Faculty of Lower Agriculture Education. This program acts as a crucial stepping stone for students from both rural and urban backgrounds who are eager to learn the fundamentals of agriculture and develop agri-perineurial skills. The aim of the paper is to assess the entrepreneurship support expectations of Agricultural Technical School students. The present investigation, entitled "Entrepreneurial expectations and preferences of Agricultural Technical School Students", was undertaken in the Akola and Buldhana districts of Maharashtra with an exploratory research framework. A purposive sample of 120 students from four Agricultural Technical Schools was selected. Primary information was methodically gathered through in-person interviews employing a standardised questionnaire, then systematically classified, tabulated, and analysed. The findings revealed that a substantial proportion of respondents (66.66%) were male, with 41.66% per cent belonging to the Other Backwards Class category. A majority (64.16%) hailed from families with moderate educational backgrounds, while 36.66 per cent had parents whose principal occupation was agricultural labour. Around 35 per cent came from households possessing minimal land (up to 1 hectare), and 54.16 per cent were classified within the moderate-income category, i.e. Rs.. 180,001/- to Rs.. 360,000/- only. Notably, 92.50 per cent originated from a rural background, and 40.83 per cent secured first-class academic results. A majority (64.16%) of students did not participate in social activities. The findings revealed that the majority (67.50 %) of ATS students were found in the medium category of entrepreneurial decision making. Regarding entrepreneurial expectations of ATS students, 83.33 per cent of them need financial assistance from a financial institution, the majority (83.33%) of the students need technical guidance from teachers, followed by mentors/guides (81.67%), and 91.67 per cent of the students want institutional support through capacity building, followed by counselling (90.00%). They have shown a strong interest in value-added agriculture products, dairy farming, poultry farming, fruits and vegetable farming, nursery management, and goat farming have moderate interest levels and seed production, organic agriculture, and agricultural clinics have relatively low interest levels of the ATS students. The entrepreneurial decision-making abilities of students were generally promising. In terms of entrepreneurial preferences, students showed the greatest interest in value-added agricultural products, dairy farming, and poultry farming. This indicates a shift towards enterprises with higher profitability and market demand.

Sesamum Productivity and Economics as Affected by Cluster Front Line Demonstrations in Farmers’ Fields of West Godavari District

Podapati Vinayalakshmi — 2025-10-18

This research aims to investigate the effects of Cluster Front Line Demonstrations on the productivity and economic viability of sesamum cultivation in West Godavari district. The Cluster Front Line Demonstrations (CFLD) programme was taken up at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Undi operational area, during Rabi, 2024-25, with integrated crop management practices in Sesamum at Siddhantamlanka village farmers’ fields of West Godavari in 20 ha area. The higher number of capsules/plant (88) and number of seeds/capsule (74) were registered with the CFLD plot when compared to farmers’ practice. The mean number of capsules/plant and number of seeds/capsule of YLM 66 was 88 and 74 no. When compared to local variety 72 and 68 no., respectively, The higher seed yield, i.e., 15.00 q/ha was realized with the CFLD demonstrated plot, which was 48.14 % more compared to farmers practice with 10.12 q/ha Rabi, 2024-25. The Gross returns and net returns of Rs. 180000, 107500/- per ha, and B:C ratio of 2.48 was also higher with the demonstration plot compared to farmers’ practice plot (Rs. 121500, 43375 per ha and 1.55). The technology gap was 100 kg/ha and technology index was 6.25, which shows good performance of Cluster demonstrations in Siddhantamlanka conditions. Yield enhancement and higher net returns were observed with improved varieties and production technology. Thus, the study resulted in convincing the farming community to adopt the recommended package of practices with improved variety YLM 66 in sesamum, which in turn enhanced the yield and returns.

Effect of Optimization of Nitrogen and Sulphur Nutrition on Productivity & Profitability of Late Sown Wheat

Ajay Maurya — 2025-10-18

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a vital cereal crop that ensures food and nutritional security for a large portion of the global population. In India, yield stagnation in major wheat-growing regions highlights the need for improved nutrient management practices. Nitrogen (N) and sulphur (S) are essential nutrients that play a synergistic role in plant metabolism, contributing to the yield and quality. An experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2021–22 at the Agronomy Research Farm of NDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, to evaluate the effect of split doses of nitrogen and graded levels of sulphur on the productivity & economics of late-sown wheat. The trial was laid out in a split-plot design comprising two factors each at different levels. First factor of N management strategies (N₁: 100% RDN basal, N₂: 50% basal + 50% after first irrigation, N₃: 50% basal + 25% after first irrigation + 25% at flowering, N₄: 25% basal + 37.5% at first irrigation + 37.5% at second irrigation) and second factor of different sulphur levels (S₁: 0, S₂: 20, S₃: 40, S₄: 60 kg S ha⁻¹) were compared and replicated thrice. Results revealed that split application of nitrogen as N₄ (25% basal + 37.5% at first irrigation), combined with S₄ (60 kg ha⁻¹), significantly improved growth parameters (plant height, number of tillers, leaf area index, dry matter accumulation), yield attributes (number of spikes m⁻², spike length, grains spike⁻¹), and grain and straw yields compared to basal application alone. Test weight remained unaffected. Maximum grain yield and economic returns were achieved under N₄ with S₃, which also provided the highest benefit-cost ratio (1.90). The positive effects were attributed to sustained nutrient availability, enhanced photosynthetic activity, and efficient translocation of assimilates. Thus, adopting a split N strategy with 40–60 kg S ha⁻¹ can serve as an agronomically efficient and economically viable practice to enhance productivity and profitability of late-sown wheat under Indo-Gangetic Plains conditions.

A Review on Advances in High‑Density Planting Systems for Fruit Crops

Ashutosh Kumar — 2025-10-04

High-density planting (HDP) and super-high-density (SHD) systems are revolutionizing contemporary fruit production by achieving high land-use efficiency, promoting early and increased yields, and enhancing orchard profitability. Embraced in apple, mango, guava, banana, citrus, and grape production on a large scale, these systems facilitate mechanization and precision management. Some recent developments are the introduction of dwarfing and semi-dwarfing rootstocks (e.g., M.9 in apple, Amrapali in mango), well-matched scion–rootstock combinations, and novel canopy architectures like hedgerows, vertical walls, trellis, and V-systems. Precision irrigation and fertigation practices, mechanized pruning and harvesting platforms, improve the efficiency of resource use as well as labor productivity. Incorporation of digital technologies such as sensors, remote monitoring, and decision-support tools further enhanced orchard management. This review synthesizes current progress in HDP technologies, highlights crop-specific innovations, and discusses future strategies to strengthen adoption, particularly in smallholder farming systems. The paper underscores the role of HDP as a key driver for enhancing productivity, quality, and profitability in fruit cultivation while aligning with the goals of sustainable agriculture.

Curcuma longa, the Golden Revolution in Hydroponic Cultivation

M. Ramanjineyulu — 2025-10-08

Curcuma longa L., the golden spice, is undergoing a major shift with the adoption of hydroponic cultivation, boosting both production efficiency and bioactive compounds. Hydroponics raises curcumin content from the traditional 2–3% to 5–8%, with elite varieties such as Lakadong reaching 7–9%. This review highlights species diversity (C. longa, C. zedoaria, C. aromatica, C. caesia) and evaluates over 20 commercial varieties, including Rajendra Sonia (8.44% curcumin) and geographic indications like Erode and Madras turmeric. India, producing 1.23 million metric tons (about 80% of global output), can achieve 3–4 harvests annually under hydroponics versus a single traditional harvest. Systems offer 80–90% water efficiency, eliminate soil-borne diseases, and deliver up to eightfold yield gains. Controlled environments also support year-round processing and value addition to meet pharmaceutical and nutraceutical demand for high-curcumin extracts. Advanced tools - IoT sensors, AI nutrient management, automated harvesting - further improve sustainability and climate resilience while preserving genetic diversity. Although initial costs are high, economic analyses show return on investment within two to three years, aided by premium pricing and strong export markets worth USD 207.45 million. Hydroponic turmeric thus emerges as a transformative innovation ensuring sustainable resources, enhanced therapeutic compounds, and new paradigms for medicinal plant cultivation.

E-NOSE Technology: An Eminent Tool for Early Detection of Plant Diseases

Heyram S P — 2025-10-09

Plant pathogens and pests pose a critical threat to global food security, necessitating early, accurate and cost-effective diagnostic tools. Conventional methods such as visual inspection, microscopy and molecular assays, while accurate, are often labor-intensive, expensive and unsuitable for large-scale field deployment. Recent advances in volatile organic compound (VOC) profiling have enabled the development of electronic nose (E-Nose) technology, which replicates the mammalian olfactory system through arrays of chemical sensors and pattern recognition algorithms. E-Noses offer rapid, non-invasive and non-destructive detection of plant stress and disease at pre-symptomatic stages, providing an essential advantage for timely intervention. Beyond disease diagnostics, E-Noses are increasingly applied in pest detection, crop quality monitoring, fertilizer and pesticide management and environmental surveillance, aligning closely with the objectives of precision agriculture. The integration of artificial intelligence, nanotechnology and machine learning has enhanced system accuracy and robustness, while challenges such as sensor drift, standardization and field-level validation remain. Overall, E-Nose technology holds significant promise as a practical and sustainable tool for advancing plant health management, promoting environmental sustainability and strengthening the resilience of modern agricultural systems.

Heavy Metal Contamination in Roadside Orchards: Implications and Management Strategies: A Review

A. Ramanjaneya Reddy — 2025-10-11

Heavy metal contamination of fruit crops especially in road side orchards has potential health hazards on consumers. The roadside orchards face significant contamination from heavy metals like lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), mercury (Hg) originate from anthropogenic activities such as vehicular emissions, industrial activities and agricultural practices like pesticide, fungicide, as well as fertilizer use release heavy metals into the soil, water and atmosphere. These persistent pollutants alter soil chemistry, reduce microbial activity, impair nutrient uptake and induce physiological stress in trees, leading to stunted growth, poor yield and degraded fruit quality that causes health complication to the customers. Contaminated product poses serious public health risks due to bioaccumulation, while on its ecological exploit impacts to biodiversity loss and food chain disruption. Effective mitigation strategies that include phytoremediation, good agricultural practices and regular monitoring is widely used to ensure sustainable productivity, consumer safety and ecosystem health.

Digital Innovations and ICT Tools in Teaching Applied Entomology: A Review

Dwarka — 2025-10-11

In the digital age, education has rapidly transformed through the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). This transformation is highly evident in the teaching of applied entomology, a domain traditionally reliant on hands-on fieldwork, microscopy and taxonomic expertise. This review synthesizes recent innovations in digital pedagogy and ICT tools such as e-learning platforms, mobile applications, simulation software, virtual microscopy, 3D modeling, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), MOOCs and interactive taxonomic keys and evaluates their impact on teaching applied entomology. With a focus on accessibility, learner engagement and knowledge retention, the paper provides insights into the global adoption of these tools, highlighting case studies and citing relevant literature. The review concludes with a forward-looking perspective on emerging digital strategies and the need for collaborative, open-source development of entomology-specific educational resources.

Exploring the Role of Carbon Nanotubes in Enhancing Soil Fertility and Crop Yield

Kavyasree G — 2025-10-13

Over the next few decades, agriculture will be confronted with the pressing challenge of enhancing productivity to satisfy the growing demand for food and fiber, while concurrently addressing risk management, reducing production variability, and improving ecological efficiency. Nanotechnology plays a significant role in advancing agricultural management, largely due to its nanoscale dimensions. It offers numerous advantages, including improved food quality and safety, reduced reliance on agricultural inputs, and enhanced absorption of nutrients from the soil. These benefits highlight the strong potential of nanotechnology in agriculture. Among the various nanomaterials, carbon nanotube has gained significant attention for its tremendous impact in the agricultural sector. Due to its unique physicochemical properties and high surface area carbon nanotubes interact with soil constituents and influence soil and crop productivity. This review highlights major findings, including the ability of carbon nanotubes to improve soil physico-chemical properties, effect on soil microbial communities, enhance nutrient availability and promote plant growth, nutrient uptake and yield. Evidences suggests that carbon nanotubes can serve as efficient carriers for fertilizers and agrochemicals, enabling targeted nutrient delivery and controlled release, thereby reducing nutrient losses. However, high concentrations of carbon nanotubes have been reported to cause toxic effects in certain plant species, indicating the need for careful dose optimization. In conclusion, carbon nanotubes show significant promise as a nano enabled tool to enhance sustainable agricultural productivity. Future research should focus on determining safe application levels, elucidating the mechanisms of nanotube-soil-plant interactions and evaluating long term environmental impacts to fully harness their potential in agriculture.

Climate Extremes and Crop Productivity: Integrating Physiological Mechanisms and Adaptive Traits for Resilience and Yield Stability

Gali Suresh — 2025-10-14

Climate extremes such as heatwaves, prolonged droughts, soil salinization, and flooding are increasingly threatening global food security by destabilizing crop yields. These stressors disrupt essential physiological processes including photosynthesis, water relations, nutrient uptake, and reproductive development. Plants, however, have evolved a range of adaptive physiological pathways that confer resilience under such conditions. Heat stress triggers thermotolerance mechanisms through heat shock proteins, membrane stabilization, and antioxidant defenses. Drought resilience is mediated by stomatal regulation, osmotic adjustment, root plasticity, and abscisic acid (ABA) signaling. Under salinity, plants maintain ion homeostasis, sequester toxic ions, and accumulate compatible solutes, while flooding tolerance involves hypoxia sensing, aerenchyma formation, ethylene signaling, and metabolic reprogramming. Importantly, many of these responses converge through shared signaling pathways involving reactive oxygen species (ROS), calcium ions, and hormonal crosstalk, resulting in cross-tolerance against multiple stresses. Physiological traits such as stay-green phenotype, water use efficiency (WUE) and radiation use efficiency (RUE), reproductive resilience, and recovery capacity are increasingly recognized as critical determinants of yield stability under climate extremes. Advances in high-throughput phenotyping, omics technologies, and gene editing provide unprecedented opportunities to integrate these traits into breeding programs. This review highlights the physiological basis of crop resilience to climate extremes, discusses strategies for trait deployment in crop improvement, and identifies future directions for linking physiology to climate-smart agriculture. By emphasizing resilience and yield stability, the paper underscores the need to reorient breeding and management strategies toward crops capable of sustaining productivity in an era of climatic uncertainty.

Plant Growth Regulators: Enhancing Mulberry Leaf Characteristics for Sustainable Sericulture

Gali Suresh — 2025-10-18

Mulberry (Morus spp.) is the exclusive feeding source for the silkworm Bombyx mori, and its physiological and biochemical traits directly influence silkworm growth, cocoon yield, and silk quality. The productivity and nutritive value of mulberry leaves are governed not only by genotype and environment but also by endogenous plant hormones and exogenous growth regulators that coordinate growth, metabolism, and stress responses. Hormones such as auxins, cytokinins, gibberellins, abscisic acid, jasmonates, salicylic acid, and brassinosteroids regulate key processes including leaf expansion, chlorophyll stability, nutrient assimilation, and secondary metabolite accumulation. Exogenous application of growth regulators has been shown to enhance leaf biomass, improve protein and carbohydrate content, delay senescence, and mitigate abiotic stresses, thereby improving leaf quality for sericulture. Recent advances in molecular biology, omics technologies, nanotechnology, and biostimulant-based practices are providing new avenues to manipulate hormone pathways for sustainable mulberry improvement. This review integrates advances in understanding the hormonal regulation of mulberry physiology and biochemistry, critically evaluates outcomes of growth regulator interventions, and identifies innovative approaches to enhance resilience and sustainability in sericulture.

Impact of Foliar Spray of Nutrients and Plant Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield Parameters of Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.)

M.Kokila — 2025-10-04

Black gram (Vigna mungo L.) is an important short-duration pulse crop widely cultivated in India, but its productivity is often constrained by poor seed germination, nutrient deficiencies, and sub-optimal crop management practices. This research aimed to evaluate various techniques to enhance seed set and overall growth performance in black gram. The experiment was conducted at the Department of Crop Improvement, Kumaraguru Institute of Agriculture, during May, 2025 to July 2025, using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with five treatments—T1: Urea (2%), T2: DAP (2%), T3: Gibberellic acid (GA₃), T4: Kinetin, and T5: Control—with four replications. Observations recorded included plant height, leaf length, leaf width, number of pods per plant, chlorophyll content, and yield per plant. Results revealed that urea application significantly enhanced vegetative growth parameters, with the highest plant height (58.75 cm) and leaf length (13.3 cm), while DAP and GA₃ treatments produced superior reproductive performance, registering maximum pods per plant (50) and highest yield (5.3 kg), respectively. Kinetin notably improved chlorophyll content (42.5 µmol m⁻²), indicating delayed senescence. The control treatment consistently recorded lower growth, physiological, and yield parameters. The study concludes that integrating foliar nutrient sprays and plant growth regulators—particularly GA₃, urea, and DAP effectively enhances seed set, growth, and productivity in black gram, providing a viable strategy for improving pulse yield under field conditions.

A Descriptive Study on TESDA Dressmaking NC II Training and Its Role in Skills Development, Employment and Livelihood Improvement

Mylene Diza Calaranan — 2025-10-07

This study assessed the perceptions of TESDA Dressmaking NC II graduates regarding changes in their employment and income status after completing the program and passing the National Competency (NC II) assessment, and examined how they view the importance of Competency-Based Training (CBT) in their personal and professional development. Within the Philippine TVET framework, CBT is recognized as a key strategy for enhancing workforce readiness and promoting inclusive growth, making its evaluation both theoretically and policy relevant. A descriptive quantitative design was employed and the study was conducted in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur, Philippines, with 100 graduates selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data were gathered using a structured online checklist and analyzed through descriptive statistics.

Findings showed that graduates agreed the program enhanced their employability (overall mean = 2.65) and improved their financial situation (overall mean = 2.77). The highest-rated indicators were increased confidence in applying for jobs or starting a business (M = 2.75) and the acquisition of dressmaking skills as a source of income (M = 2.79). However, challenges emerged in securing employment directly related to dressmaking (M = 2.56) and attaining substantial financial stability (M = 2.74), highlighting a persistent job-skills mismatch and modest economic returns.

These results suggest that while the program provides technical competencies and fosters entrepreneurial confidence, its broader economic impact is constrained by external labor market conditions. Addressing these gaps requires stronger industry linkages, targeted entrepreneurial support, and closer alignment between training content and market needs. Such measures would maximize the benefits of TESDA’s Dressmaking NC II program and strengthen TVET’s contribution to sustainable livelihoods.

Assessing the Association of Socio-economic Factors with the Attitude Level toward Eco-friendly Farming Practices among Vegetable Growers in Madhya Pradesh, India

Shailu Yadav — 2025-10-08

India’s agricultural sector significantly contributes to food security and rural livelihoods, with vegetable cultivation being a key but resource-intensive activity. The increasing environmental concerns due to excessive use of chemicals have led to a growing emphasis on eco-friendly farming practices. This study assessed the attitude of vegetable growers in Satna district, Madhya Pradesh, towards eco-friendly technologies (EFT) in vegetable cultivation. A total of 240 farmers from twelve villages were surveyed using a structured Likert-scale questionnaire. Results showed that the majority (57.50%) of respondents had a favourable attitude towards eco-friendly farming, while 24.58% exhibited less favourable attitudes and 17.91% showed the most favourable attitudes. Ranking of attitude statements revealed that “Application of crop residues can invite new pests” (Rank I) and “Young farmers should adopt EFT” (Rank II) were the most agreed upon. Other key perceptions included concerns about neem cake’s effectiveness and the ecological benefits of EFT, such as biodiversity and pollution reduction. Statistical analysis indicated significant associations between favourable attitudes and factors like education, farming experience, landholding size, extension participation, mass media exposure, social participation, scientific orientation, and risk orientation. Conversely, variables such as age, family size, income, and innovativeness did not significantly influence attitudes. The findings highlight the importance of targeted extension services and awareness programs focusing on identified demographic and socio-economic factors to promote sustainable vegetable farming practices. These insights can guide policymakers and agricultural agencies to enhance the adoption of environmentally sustainable methods, thereby improving farmer resilience and environmental health.

Design and Evaluation of an Improved Bund Digging Tool for Apatani Integrated Farming System

Tage Tamo — 2025-10-08

Aims: To design and evaluate an improved bund digging tool for Apatani integrated farming system.

Study Design: Design and development of 3-teeth Damhu.

Place and Duration of Study: Testing of the developed 3-teeth Damhu was conducted at eight different places in Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh, and the data has been recorded and represented. The reported work was completed in a duration of one year.

Methodology: The Apatani system of farming is considered the most evolved & highly organized system of wet cultivation of rice. Along with rice cultivation, the Apatanis also cultivate fish in their rice fields and also cultivate crops on the bund. With this bund structure, the famous ‘Paddy-cum-fish farming’ is possible, which provides extra wages to the farmers. Seedlings are transplanted on the pre-digged hole which are dug using a traditional implement locally called Damhu. This work contains a detailed study of the traditional method of bund farming, the demerits of the traditional bund-digging tool used, and why there is a need for the development of an improved bund-digging tool. The bund dimensions were thoroughly studied and analyzed. Thereafter, a 3-teeth Damhu was designed and fabricated. This 3-teeth Damhu consists of three metallic teeth attached to a wooden frame which is later fixed with a handle. As for the performance evaluation, the depth of the holes dug with traditional Damhu and the newly fabricated 3-teeth Damhu was compared. Further, the time taken for digging 15 number of holes was also compared.

Results: The depth of the holes dug were found to be dependent on the type of the soil i.e. the depth varies from 4.1 cm to 7.3 cm depending on the location. Deeper holes can be dug with the use of the developed 3-teeth Damhu as compared with the traditional one. However, one-way ANOVA result suggested the variation in the depth of the holes is not significant, which is desirable in the present study. Further, the time required for digging 15 holes was also compared and it was found that about 40 % of the time was saved by using the developed 3-teeth Damhu. ANOVA results provide strong evidence that the two groups differ significantly on the measured variable and that significant amount of time is saved.

Conclusion: Overall, the developed 3-teeth Damhu was found to be effective in terms of less time consumption. Therefore, the developed tool is recommended for the Apatani bund farming system.

Screening of Wheats for Resistance to Stem Rust under Artificial Epiphytotic Conditions in Maharashtra, India

PR Lakde — 2025-10-08

Research was conducted to find stem rust resistance in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) common varieties in India (Maharashtra). Released wheat varieties were evaluated for their resistance to stem rust at adult plant stage in artificially epiphytotic condition in field, during Rabi season of the year 2024–2025. The varieties were screened against a mixture of five dominant stem rust pathotypes, and disease reactions were categorized using Peterson’s Scale based on per cent rust infection. The results indicated that eight varieties viz., NIAW 4028, NIAW 34, Jay, NIDW 1149, NIAW 3624, NIAW 917, NIAW 1415, and NIDW 15 were resistant, while another eight varieties viz., Kenphad 25, NI 747-19, N 5749, NI 5643, NIAW 3170, Kenphad-39, N 146, and NI 917 exhibited moderate resistance. Five varieties viz., NI 345, NI 9947, Niphad-4, NIDW 295 and NIAW 1994 showed moderately susceptible reactions, and two varieties viz., N 5439 and NIAW 301 were susceptible. None of the entries showed complete immunity. Notably, twenty-one varieties recorded AUDPC values below 100, indicating effective resistance that can be exploited in breeding for durable stem rust resistance.

Screening of Soybean Genotypes against Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Virus Disease under Field Conditions

Kondu Soumya — 2025-10-09

Soybean (Glycine max L.) is a nutrionally enrich leguminous crop, playing a pivotal part in food, feed and industrial sectors. In India it has been escalated owing to high adaptability, nitrogen fixing capability economic returns. However, production is significantly constrained by many biotic and abiotic stresses. Among biotic stresses Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Virus (MYMV) disease is a major viral disease transmitted by whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), leading to chlorosis, stunted growth and severe yield losses. The present investigation aimed to evaluate twelve soybean genotypes for speckled resistance to MYMV under natural epiphytotic conditions during the kharif 2024. The experiment was laid out by using RBD, with 2 replications; Disease severity was scored based on a standardized 0-5 scale, wherein lower scores indicated higher resistance. Sustained variability was evident in disease response, with genotypes categorized as highly resistant, resistant, moderately resistant, moderately susceptible, susceptible and highly susceptible. Genotypes such as KDS 726, KDS 992 and MAUS 162 exhibited moderately susceptible whereas, MAUS 61, MAUS 81 and MAUS 612 showed susceptible against the Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Virus (MYMV). These findings provide a valuable foundation for the development of Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Disease (MYMD) resistant soybean cultivators in future. Future efforts for integrating molecular markers and genomic tools with phenotypic selection may be instrumental in accelerating the development of resilient soybean varieties for sustainable production in MYMV- endemic areas.

Relationship between the Profile of Soybean Growers and Their Knowledge about Climate Resilient Technology

Jyoti M. Kharatmol — 2025-10-11

Climate change means shifts in the typical climate conditions, including changes in things like extreme weather events. These shifts happen over time and across different places, separate from single weather incidents. The study aims to find out the relationship between the profile of soybean growers and their knowledge about climate-resilient technology. The study was conducted in twelve villages of Latur district from Marathwada region of Maharashtra State in 2024 – June, 2025 with 120 soybean growers. Ex-post facto research design was used for the study. As regards with independent variables, area under soybean, sources of information, training received, at 0.01% each, then extension contact, risk orientation and market orientation at 0.05% each had positive and highly significant relationship while education, land holding and experience in soybean cultivation at 0.01% each established positive and significant relationship with knowledge of climate resilient technologies by soybean growers.

Bridging Education and Innovation: An Examination of Students Attitudes toward Artificial Intelligence

Jagadish. H. M. — 2025-10-11

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming in multiple sectors, with education emerging as a key area of impact. In addition to changing instructional strategies, it is opening up fresh avenues for individualized and creative learning. AI applications and tools are changing conventional methods of instruction, evaluation, and teamwork as they continue to make their way into classrooms. In order to bridge the gap between education and technology and make sure that innovation promotes inclusive and meaningful learning experiences, it is crucial to comprehend how students feel about artificial intelligence. This study investigates the attitudes of postgraduate students toward AI, focusing on its relevance, utility and potential influence on their academic and professional lives. This is an ex-post facto research which was conducted at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, in 2024. A random sampling method was employed and a total of 60 postgraduate students was selected. The data were collected through a structured interview schedule. Any AI tool, such as Chat GPT, AR-VR, educational games, Kahoot, Quizlet, individualised learning platforms, chatbots, automated grading systems, etc., has been used by them in their process of learning. The findings reveal that, majority (71.68 %) of the students hold an attitude toward AI, favourable to more favourable attitude towards AI in education, recognizing its ability to enhance learning, address real-world challenges and contribute to societal progress. Many expressed enthusiasms for adopting AI tools and applications, viewing them as essential for academic success and career advancement. Students also highlighted the growing need for integrating AI-related courses into university curricula, underscoring the technology’s role in shaping future workforce readiness. While optimism prevailed, concerns regarding ethical implications, privacy, job displacement and reliance on AI-driven decision-making were also noted. Considering everything the study highlights a favourable change in students' perspectives, with AI being viewed as a force that is revolutionising both education and society. The findings emphasise how important it is to give students knowledge and abilities related to artificial intelligence (AI) in order to bridge the gap between education and innovation and prepare them for opportunities and challenges in the future.

Sustainable Wheat Production through Integrated Nutrient Management: Soil and Economic Perspectives

Konsam Prithijit — 2025-10-14

India's food security plan relies heavily on wheat, which is grown second only to rice. But because of its heavy production with chemical fertilizers, soil health has declined, input costs have gone up, and ecological issues have arisen. A sustainable method for preserving soil fertility and raising agricultural profitability is Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), which blends inorganic fertilizers, organic additions, and biofertilizers. This study assessed the effects of INM on soil health metrics and the economics of growing wheat under nine treatments using a randomized block design. It was carried out at the Agronomy Research Farm of Himgiri Zee University, Dehradun, during the Rabi season of 2023–2024. In addition to lowering pH and electrical conductivity, the results demonstrated that the combined application of 80% RDF + vermicompost (2.9 t/ha) + biofertilizers (Azotobacter + PSB) greatly increased soil organic carbon (0.58%), available nitrogen (155.25 kg/ha), and phosphorus (14.51 kg/ha), indicating improved soil health. In terms of economics, the 100% RDF treatment produced the highest net return (₹36,945/ha) and benefit-cost (B:C) ratio (1.32), even though this integrated treatment had the highest gross return (₹72,250/ha). The results emphasize that although INM promotes sustainable production and enhances soil quality, increased input costs may short-term restrict economic returns. Therefore, improving sustainability and profitability in wheat-based cropping systems requires optimizing the mix of nutrient sources.

Influence of Foliar Nano Urea Application on Growth, Yield, and Economic Performance of Custard Apple (Annona squamosa L.) cv. Sindhan

A. H. Hirpara — 2025-10-17

The present experiment was conducted with the aim to find out the effect of foliar application of nano urea on the growth, yield and economics of custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) CV. Sindhan. The field experiment was conducted at the College of Horticulture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Jagudan, Dist. Mehsana (Gujarat) from June to December 2024. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with ten treatments and three replications. The effect of recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) and foliar spray of different concentrations of nano urea on growth parameters was found to be non-significant. In respect of yield parameters, the results of the experiment revealed that, maximum number of fruits per tree (95.69), weight of fruit (204.07 g), diameter of fruit (7.50 cm), yield per tree (18.27 kg), yield per hectare (5.06 t) were recorded in the treatment T₄ i.e.100 per cent recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) + 0.5 per cent Nano urea. In respect of economics, the results of the study revealed that the maximum gross returns (202400₹/ha), net returns (119302₹/ha) and Benefit Cost Ratio (2.44) was also recorded in the treatment T₄ as compared to the control.

Perceived Appropriateness of Information and Beneficiary Characteristics under Kisan Mobile Sandesh

Anurag Verma — 2025-10-18

Research was conducted in Lakhimpur Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh to assess the role of Kisan Mobile Sandesh (KMS) in providing agricultural information to farmers. An ex-post-facto research design was adopted, and a total of 117 registered beneficiaries were randomly selected from 12 villages across two purposively chosen blocks. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested interview schedule and analyzed with the help of percentages. Findings revealed that the majority of beneficiaries were young (58.12%), educated up to higher secondary level (46.15%), and dependent solely on farming (70.94%). Nearly half (49.57%) had medium landholdings and more than half (55.56%) belonged to families with more than five members. Most respondents fell into the medium annual income group (47.01%). Regarding psychological and behavioral variables, a higher percentage of beneficiaries reported high perception towards KMS (45.30%), medium cosmopoliteness (49.57%), high economic motivation (43.59%) and high information-seeking behavior (41.88%). With respect to message appropriateness, 45.30% of beneficiaries considered the information appropriate, 32.48% most appropriate and 22.22% less appropriate. Differential perception analysis further indicated that beneficiaries with higher perception were more likely to rate messages as appropriate or most appropriate. Overall, KMS was found to be an effective ICT-based extension tool in bridging knowledge gaps, improving access to timely information and supporting informed decision-making in agriculture.