Agricultural Research Council Research Articles

Evaluating the spatiotemporal patterns of drought characteristics in a semi‐arid region of Limpopo Province, South Africa

Drought is a complex phenomenon resulting from below-average rainfall and is characterized by frequency, duration, and severity, occurring at a regional scale with dire consequences, especially in semiarid environments. This study used the Reconnaissance Drought Index (RDI) to assess drought severity in two district municipalities in Limpopo Province. Rainfall and air temperature data from 12 stations covering 1970–2020 were obtained from the Agricultural Research Council. The calculation of RDI relies on the monthly accumulation ratio of total rainfall to potential evapotranspiration (PET). For this study, PET was estimated using the Hargreaves and Samani temperature-based approach. The RDI results showed a high spatial–temporal variation in drought characteristics over the study area. All stations experienced extreme drought conditions in different years, with the maximum drought severity (-3.40) occurring from 2002–2003 in the western parts of the study area, indicating extreme drought. Furthermore, the results revealed continuous drought conditions over various periods, including severe droughts between 1995 and 1998 and between 2014 and 2016, with the severity varying between mild and moderate drought conditions. The results reveal notable but nonuniform drought patterns as the climate evolves, with potential implications for water availability and livelihoods. The study's findings underscore the significance of adopting multidimensional approaches to drought assessment that encompass meteorological and hydrological factors to inform strategies for adaptive water management and policy formulation in the face of a changing climate.

Effect of orange-fleshed sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas)-Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) composite flour on quality properties of pasta.

Non-wheat flours are gaining attention as substitutes for wheat flour, offering the potential to optimize local resource utilization and alleviate the demand for wheat. The study investigates the use of non-wheat flours, particularly a blend of orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) (Ipomoea batatas) and Bambara groundnut (BG) (Vigna subterranean), as a partial replacement for wheat flour in pasta production. The aim is to improve the utilization of local resources, reduce the reliance on wheat, and enhance the nutritional quality of pasta. The production of OFSP and BG flour took place at Agricultural Research Council Roodeplaat Campus. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance, and significant means were separated using the Duncan multiple range test. The research found that pasta made from composite flour significantly influenced its composition and cooking characteristics when compared to 100% wheat pasta. The most nutritionally enriched pasta was achieved with a blend of 50% wheat, 25% OFSP, and 25% BG, featuring higher protein, ash, and fiber content. Consumers preferred pasta made from a composite flour of 70% wheat, 15% OFSP, and 15% BG. This research suggests the potential for producing pasta using OFSP and BG composite flour as a viable option. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The practical application of the research on orange-fleshed sweet potatoes-Bambara groundnut-based pasta has the potential to improve nutrition, stimulate local economies, enhance agricultural sustainability, and promote food security in regions where vitamin A deficiency is a concern and wheat importation is high.

Effect of zeolite application on soil enzyme activity of potted sandy soil cultivated with Swiss chard and cabbage

A zeolite pot experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Council Infruitec-Nietvoorbij in Stellenbosch, South Africa, under greenhouse conditions. The experiment aimed to investigate the impact of zeolite application on soil enzyme activities in sandy soils cultivated with Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris Var. cicla) and cabbage (Brassica oleracea Var. capitata L.) over two years (2018-2019). Different zeolite-to-soil ratios (0:1, 1:9, 2:8, and 3:7 w/w) were used, with each pot containing 12 kg of soil. The experiment involved 72 pots for each vegetable, arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Soil enzyme activities, including acid phosphatase, β-glucosidase, and urease, as well as soil chemical properties (pH, total plant-available nitrogen, organic carbon, and phosphorus), were analyzed. Key findings indicate that the effect of zeolite application on enzyme activities varied between the vegetable species. Zeolite application significantly increased (P

Estimating net energy requirements of male Djallonke sheep

Context Energy requirements in sheep can vary significantly due to various factors, including age, breed, sex and environmental conditions. Genetic selection and crossbreeding further contribute to this variability. Although guidelines from the US and UK national research councils are commonly used for formulating sheep diets, they may not adequately account for the unique characteristics of sheep in Africa. Aims The study aimed to estimate the net maintenance energy requirement of male Djallonke sheep. This estimation will provide a basis for comparing the energy requirements of Djallonke sheep with national recommendations and recent estimates for other sheep breeds. Methods Sixteen entire male Djallonke sheep were selected and grouped by weight. They were then randomly allocated to four treatment groups in a 4 × 4 Latin square design. The sheep were fed to achieve intake levels ranging from 1 to 1.75 multiples of their maintenance energy requirement. Gas exchange data were collected using the GreenFeed system over a 3-day period at the conclusion of each treatment period. Heat production was calculated using the established Brouwer’s equation. A linear regression equation was developed to relate heat production to metabolisable energy intake scaled by metabolic bodyweight to calculate the net energy for maintenance. Key results The estimated net energy for maintenance for male Djallonke sheep was determined to be 0.354 MJ/kg BW0.75. This estimation indicated that the energy requirements of male Djallonke sheep exceeded the recommendations provided by the US National Research Council and the UK Agricultural and Food Research Council. However, it closely aligned with an updated estimate of 0.358 MJ/kg BW0.75. Conclusions Based on the study’s findings, male Djallonke sheep have higher energy requirements for maintenance than what is commonly recommended by existing guidelines. Therefore, it is advisable to update ration formulation software for male Djallonke sheep to better reflect their actual energy requirements for maintenance. Implications These results have practical implications for the formulation of diets and feeding management practices for male Djallonke sheep. Adhering to updated energy requirement estimates can help improve the efficiency and productivity of sheep production in the context of Djallonke sheep farming.

Farming systems research in Nepal: Concepts, design, and methodology for enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability

Farming Systems Research (FSR) plays a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity, sustainability, and livelihoods in Nepal. This article provides a comprehensive review of FSR in Nepal, focusing on concepts, design, and methodology for optimizing farming systems. Integrated farming systems have emerged as a key strategy for small and marginal farmers to improve livelihood security and meet household needs for nutrition and income. By integrating various components such as crops, livestock, and agroforestry, farmers can enhance resource use efficiency, diversify income sources, and improve resilience to climate change impacts. FSR in Nepal combines scientific research, community engagement, and local knowledge to enhance agricultural sustainability and improve livelihoods for small-scale farmers. Nepal Agriculture Research Council (NARC) plays a crucial role in developing a national research agenda and allocating resources to address the diverse technological needs of farmers. By integrating diverse perspectives, utilizing innovative technologies, and engaging stakeholders, FSR addresses agricultural system complexities and contributes to food security, environmental sustainability, and rural development.

First report of Botrytis cinerea causing flower blight on macadamia in South Africa

AbstractMacadamia cultivation plays significant role in the economy of South Africa. Despite its importance, the industry grapples with disease‐related challenges, notably flower blight, which threatens substantial economic losses by affecting yield and nut quality. In 2022, diagnostic services at the Agricultural Research Council and the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute received macadamia flowers displaying blight symptoms. Employing two methods for fungal isolation, 25 isolates were obtained which were classified into one group based on morphological characteristics. DNA analysis identified the isolates as Botrytis cinerea. The pathogenicity testing was conducted on macadamia flowers to confirm Koch's postulates. This is the first report of B. cinerea affecting Macadamia integrifolia Maiden & Betche in South Africa, underlining its potential threat to the industry.

The Effect of Aminocyclopropane Carboxylic Acid (ACC) and Silver Nitrate (AGNO3) on Green Super Rice Seedlings for Submergence Tolerance

This internship reported titled as “The effect of Aminocyclopropane Carboxylic acid (ACC) and Silver Nitrate (AGNO3) on green super rice seedlings for submergence tolerance” aimed to identify submergence tolerant rice genotypes and the role of two chemicals i.e. Aminocyclopropane Carboxylic acid (ACC) and Silver Nitrate (AGNO3) in enhancing submergence tolerance of rice. The trial comprised a pot experiment that was conducted at the experimental field of National Agriculture Research Council (NARC) to evaluate the effect on various newly developed lines of green super rice for submergence tolerance. The experiment was designed in randomized complete block within three replications. The treatments consisted of eleven rice genotypes and two chemicals. Five plants of each genotype were transplanted in to pots which were then treated with ACC, AGNO3 or control (without any chemical). Both these chemicals were applied after one week of transplantation. The data were collected before submergence, after seven days of submergence and after fourteen days of submergence on various agronomic parameters including plant height, leaf length and number of leaves. The results indicated that plant height of genotype NRPC-7 resulted in the tallest plants among all the tested genotypes. Greater leaf length was observed in NRPC-9 in control treatments while maximum number of leaves under the treatment of ACC was observed in genotype NRPC-8. It was concluded that the above-mentioned genotypes were highly tolerated to submergence and can be used in breeding program for submergence tolerant variety development

COMPARATIVE EFFICACY OF NEEM OIL DERIVATIVES WITH IMIDACLOPRID AGAINST OKRA JASSID, AMRASCA BIGUTTULA (ISHIDA)

The present research study was conducted at the experimental field condition of Pakistan Agricultural Research Council, Southern Zone Agricultural Research Centre, University of Karachi, to compare the field performance of different neem oil derivatives doses with Imidacloprid, sprayed on okra crop against the jassid population. The experiments were carried out RCBD with the application of four treatments, including three different concentrations of neem oils at (2%, 1.5%, and 1%) with the comparison of Imidacloprid pesticide and control. Neem oil was selected as a natural pesticide against jassid population reduction on okra crop. All the treatments were sprayed twice and data were recorded before 24h of pre-treatment and post-treatment at 48h, 72h, and 144h, respectively. The overall maximum reduction % after the application of Imidacloprid against the jassid population was calculated (61.51%) in 1st spray and (58.25%) 2nd spray, followed by (43.01%), (39.75%) at 2%, consequent to (32.50%), (29.75%), at 1.5% and (25.55%), (24.52%) at 1%, respectively. The maximum efficacy in neem oil concentration was recorded at 2% followed by 1.5%, and 1% but all neem oil concentrations including Imidacloprid observed effective from the 1st day up to the 6th post-spray days. All neem oil concentrations after 24h, 48h, 72h, and 144h of post-spray found significantly different at (P< 0.05). The application of neem oil, 2% caused the phytotoxicity reduction in okra plants. Thus, it is recommended that the bio-pesticide should be applied at 1.5% neem oil concentration against the jassid pest population.

Comparative analysis of knowledge and management practices of insect pests of maize among IPM adopters and non-adopters in Sindhupalchok, Nepal

Integrated pest management (IPM) is a decision-based approach that involves optimizing the pest population below the economic threshold by the coordinated use of multiple tactics in an economically and environmentally sound manner. The adoption of IPM in farming practices prevents long-term pest damage by combining biological control, modification of cultural practices, habitual manipulation, and use of resistant varieties. In Nepal, mostly in hilly regions, haphazard chemical pesticide application has inevitable effects on human health, the environment, and the ecosystem. The haphazard chemical pesticide application in Sindhupalchok, Nepal originated mostly due to a knowledge gap in the identification of the stages of the lifecycle of pests, and the distinction between beneficial and harmful insects. To compare the effectiveness of management practices between IPM adopters and non-adopters this study was framed for six months in Sangachokgadi municipality, Sindhupalchok, Nepal. The knowledge gap among the maize growers in Sindhupalchok was assessed using both primary and secondary data collection methods. For primary data collection a comprehensive and structured questionnaire, face-to-face interview, phone call interview, and Key Informant Interview was conducted. Similarly, secondary data was collected from various articles and publications from Maize Zone, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoALD), Nepal Agriculture Research Council (NARC), and National Maize Research Program (NMRP). The collected data were then analyzed (descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and indexing) by using computer software packages i.e., Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26, and Microsoft Excel 2010. The analyzed data revealed maize growers adopting IPM practices for crop management are known to have significantly better knowledge of the life cycle of pests, were able to distinguish between beneficial and harmful insects, and had knowledge of appropriate fertilizer doses. Further, the findings revealed IPM adopters had better knowledge of chemical pesticide handling which could minimize the chemical hazards among the farmers.

Agri-silviculture community growers in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa

Agriculture and forestry play a crucial role in the South African economy, contributing to poverty alleviation and economic growth. Combining the two, agroforestry is a land-use system that integrates agricultural crops with woody perennials to achieve beneficial ecological and economical interactions for food, fiber, and livestock production. A study conducted in the South African provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga demonstrated the positive impact of agroforestry on food security and community livelihoods by integrating crop production (groundnuts) into forestry plantations (eucalyptus trees), as a type of agri-silviculture. Referred to as the ´intervention´, this agroforestry initiative monitored the food security status of community growers. Before the intervention, all the community growers were moderately food insecure, facing insufficient and monotonous diets. After the intervention, food accessibility increased significantly, as 88% of the community growers indicated that they now had access to food from their land, and 62% no longer went hungry, children included. The agri-silviculture community growers were additionally able to sell their groundnuts at formal and informal markets, increasing their income and improving their livelihoods. The environmental and socioeconomic success of this study was made possible, and continues to be improved upon, thanks to the ongoing collaboration between the Agricultural Research Council and Mountain to Ocean. Public-private partnerships such as these must be prioritised, as they are instrumental in promoting, financing and developing agroforestry initiatives. Agroforestry proved to be a viable solution to enhance food security, generate income, and improve livelihoods in South Africa, but high transportation costs and the lack of transportation infrastructure need to be addressed to provide community growers easier access to their agroforestry sites. It is recommended that agroforestry be intensified across South Africa to help achieve Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, particularly zero hunger.

Optimizing urban water sustainability: Integrating deep learning, genetic algorithm, and CMIP6 GCM for groundwater potential zone prediction within a social-ecological-technological framework

This study presents a novel approach to groundwater resource assessment and drought vulnerability, achieved through integrating cutting-edge deep-learning algorithms into a comprehensive framework. In regions susceptible to drought, ensuring groundwater availability is of paramount importance. Addressing this critical need, our research employs an ensemble of advanced algorithms, including long short-term memory, convolutional neural network, deep neural network, and recurrent neural network. These algorithms are further enhanced through optimization using a genetic algorithm to map groundwater potential zones (GWPZ). Leveraging model validation based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUCROC), the long short-term memory-genetic algorithm model emerges as the superior algorithm, boasting the highest values of AUCROC: 0.995 for training and 0.996 for testing). Utilizing this optimized model, this study developed the GWPZ map, subsequently overlaying it with established drought maps developed by the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council across distinct periods—Pre-Kharif, Kharif, and Rabi. The derived baseline GWPZ spatial distribution revealed five categories—very low (34.99%), low (27.67%), moderate (13.26%), high (11.71%), and very high (12.37%)—and their intersection with drought-prone regions, indicative of probabilities of drought occurrence ranging from very severe to low (15.14% to 24.69%). Moreover, employing the best-predicted model, this study projected future GWPZ for 2050 and 2100 using the coupled model intercomparison project 6 general circulation model data under the ambit of three distinct shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs): SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5. Our findings suggested a contraction in the groundwater potential area by the end of the twenty-first century (2100). This pioneering integration sheds light on the intricate relationship between groundwater availability and drought susceptibility, furnishing invaluable insights for formulating targeted water resource management strategies. By amalgamating advanced computational techniques with geospatial analyses, this research contributes to a more comprehensive grasp of water resource dynamics within the context of escalating climate challenges. Consequently, it offers a foundation for informed decision-making and implementing sustainable water management practices in regions grappling with the dual challenges of groundwater scarcity and recurrent droughts.

John Roundell Palmer, fourth Earl of Selborne. 24 March 1940—12 February 2021

Occasionally, the Royal Society confers a fellowship on individuals not because of distinction in any one branch of science but rather for their contribution to science as a whole. Among that select group of Fellows was John Roundell Palmer, fourth Earl of Selborne GBE DL FRS, who was elected in 1991. A member of the House of Lords for nearly 50 years, a primary focus for his work was the interface between science and technology on the one hand, and policy and legislation on the other. He was elected Chair of the House of Lords Select Committee on Science and Technology twice, being involved in some of the defining issues in the science agenda over those times. His involvement in the horticultural and agriculture business of his family's estate in Hampshire made him aware of how science research could be of great benefit to the agricultural sector and society at large. His interest led to his becoming the chair of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), where his ability to achieve a consensus between people with diverse views enabled complex projects to progress. He joined the House of Lords in 1971 as a hereditary peer. In addition, he used his skills and wide-ranging interests to engage with a range of bodies across different sectors. He was at different times: President of the Royal Geographical Society (with Institute of British Geographers (IBG)); Chair of the Advisory Board of the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology; Chancellor of the University of Southampton; Chair of Trustees, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew; Master of the Mercers’ Company; member of the Board of Lloyds Bank plc; Chair of Living with Environmental Change; Chair of the Foundation for Science and Technology; and chair or adviser to many other organizations. His contribution to the dialogue between science policy and society was recognized by the award of KBE in 1987 and GBE in 2011.

Impact of terminal heat stress on performance of Nepalese wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes

Heat stress has been a major abiotic stress that has been a key factor for poor production and the productivity of wheat. To understand the impact of heat stress and to evaluate the performance and stability of elite wheat genotypes under irrigated and heat stress environment, a field experiment was conducted under Alpha lattice design at the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Bhairahawa, Rupandehi, Nepal from 2019-2023 comprising 20 elite wheat genotypes collected from Nepal Agriculture Research Council. The combined analysis of variance showed, heat stress had the significant impact on all the traits evaluated with a 29% yield reduction under heat stress condition as compared to irrigated. NL 1368 (21.5%) and NL 1386 (41.4%) had the least and highest yield reduction under heat stress environment as compared to irrigated. BL 4919 was the highest yielding wheat genotype under both irrigated (4287.9 kg/ha) and heat stress environment (2905.4 kg/ha). WWW model revealed, NL 1387 was the most stable wheat genotypes while BL 4919 and NL 1350 were the most adaptable genotypes under irrigated and heat stress environment. Hence, these selected adaptive and stable genotypes should be promoted in the wheat improvement program as a parent material for heat stress breeding.

Mapping the research productivity of Pakistan Agricultural Research Council: a scientometric study

Purpose This study aims to examine the research productivity of Pakistan Agricultural Research Council’s (PARC’s) researchers published during 2001–2020 by using scientometric indicators. The study explored the growth and collaborative trends along with authorship and institutional collaborative patterns at the national and international levels. Design/methodology/approach The study was conducted in four phases. Firstly, a search strategy was designed to retrieve reliable data sets. During the second phase, data from PARC research was retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science (WoS). In the third phase, the data were combined, and duplications were removed. Finally, the data were analysed using RStudio and VOSviewer. Findings The study identified 2,868 research publications from 16 communication channels spanning over the period of 2001–2020. The growth rate varied during the study period and the year 2020 was the most productive year of the organization. Most of the research was produced in multi-authorship and five authors were dominant. Pakistan Journal of Botany was the most preferred and cited source. Moreover, PARC research collaboration with Pakistani researchers was more than their international counterparts. Research limitations/implications Like other research, this research has some limitations. For example, this research is based on secondary data extracted from WoS and Scopus databases, world-renowned online academic. However, researchers should keep in mind while interpreting the results of this study. Secondly, the research publications published by PARC researchers during 2001–2020 were considered. Finally, this research considered English language literature only. Practical implications The study’s key theoretical contribution is its strategy for merging WoS and Scopus in RStudio, while its findings could assist agriculture research stakeholders in identifying new areas of research, awards, promotions and identification of research gaps. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first to use scientometric indicators to evaluate PARC’s research productivity. This detailed analysis provides a deeper understanding of PARC’s contribution to agriculture research and its potential implications.

Impact of Perceived Overqualification on Job Satisfaction and Performance of Employees: Evidence from Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC)

Overqualification is emerging in today’s modern world, especially in COVID-19. This study was based on data collected from the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council, a renowned scientific and research organization in agriculture sector of Pakistan. A total of 250 Questionnaires were sent online using Google Forms and few were completed physically. The final sample size for data analysis was 214 after questionnaires collection and data cleaning. Results revealed that perceived over qualification has a moderate positive impact on the Job Satisfaction level and performance of employees. It is projected that perceived over qualification does not always have a negative impact on job outcomes and that the organizational environment plays an important role in mitigating the negative effects. Additionally, if an employee's job is effectively planned and the employees believes that they have career and growth chances in the organization, perceptions of over qualification may have a favorable impact on job outcomes.

Post-Harvest and Sensory Quality Performance of Open Pollinated Cauliflower Cultivars for Mid-season at Dang District of Nepal

The study was conducted at Tulsipur, Dang, Nepal for two years (2021 and 2022 A.D.) to assess the postharvest quality performance of open pollinated (OP) cauliflower curd. Five OP cauliflower cultivars viz. Kathmandu Local, Khumal Jyapu, Agheni, Terai-1 and Terai-2 (seed sourced from Nepal Agriculture Research Council, Khumaltar, Lalitpur) were replicated four times in Randomized Complete Block Design. Freshly harvested curds from respective plots were considered in postharvest and sensory study. Maximum curd dry matter (15.91%) and Vitamin C content (37.94 mg/100 gm) was recorded in Khumal Jyapu whereas, maximum leaf dry matter (12.53%) and TSS (7.1830Brix) were recorded in Aghani. The color score (8.913) and overall appearance score (7.908) were maximum in Khumal Jyapu. The curd compactness score (7.475) and overall acceptance score (8.133) were recorded maximum in Aghani. The lowest physiological loss in curd weight with jacket leaves (8.193%) was recorded in Khumal Jyapu after 3 days after harvesting (DAH) whereas; the lowest physiological loss in curd weight recorded in Aghani were 13.47%, 19.32%% and 25.06% at 5, 7 and 9 DAH respectively. Similarly, the lowest physiological loss in curd weight without jacket leaves recorded in Khumal Jyapu were 10.45%, 14.82%, 22.83% and 29.77% at 3, 5, 7 and 9 DAH respectively. The lowest spoilage losses of curd along with and without jacket leaves recorded in Aghani were 33.27% and 38.77% respectively. Considering the economically important postharvest attributes Khumal Jyapu and Aghani were found to be the suitable mid-season cultivars in Dang condition.

Effect of Seed Rates and Sowing Dates on Productivity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

A field experiment was conducted at the Agronomy farm of Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), Khumaltar, Lalitpur to evaluate the effect of sowing dates and seed rates on yield and yield attributes of wheat. The experiment was laid in a split-plot design with three replications treated with 4 sowing dates as the main plot factor (12th Nov, 27th Nov, 12th Dec, and 27th Dec) and 4 seed rates as subplot factor (100 kg ha-1, 120 kg ha-1, 140 kg ha-1 and 160 kg ha-1). Results revealed that the leaf area index was significantly affected by sowing dates and was comparatively superior in 2nd sowing date (27th Nov) wheat. Similarly, in the case of seed rates, the leaf area index was influenced significantly and was recorded to be increasing with an increase in seed rates. Phenological parameters like days to 50% heading, flowering, and maturity were observed maximum (116, 123, and 179 days, respectively) in early sown wheat and reduced with the subsequent delay in sowing. Maximum values of yield and yield attributes like effective tillers per meter square (635.6), spike length (9.56 cm), grains per spike (41.49), grain yield (7.59 Mt ha-1), and straw yield (9.58 Mt ha-1) were observed in the wheat sown in 2nd date (on 27th Nov) which differed significantly to wheat sown on other dates. Seed rates had no significant influence on grain yield and yield attributes. Thousand-grain weight was found maximum (46.26 g) in early sown wheat (on 12th Nov sown wheat, reduced with the subsequent delay in sowing, and the harvest index was observed as maximum (0.51) under December 27 sown wheat. Though the yield and its attributes were not influenced significantly by seed rate, the maximum yield (6.18 Mt ha-1) was observed in wheat sown at the rate of 120 kg ha-1. Considering seed yield and its parameters, 2nd date of sowing wheat (27th Nov) and seed rate of 100 kg ha-1 could be the best option to uplift the productivity of wheat in rainfed lowland conditions of Lalitpur, Nepal.

Effect of combined application of urea and organic manures on soil acidity along with the growth and yield attributes of okra at Lamjung, Nepal

An experiment was conducted in horticulture farm of Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Lamjung Campus, Nepal to evaluate the effect of combined application of Urea and Organic manures on soil acidity along with the growth and yield attributes of Okra. The experiment was set up under Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) comprising five treatments replicated four times. The various treatments used in the experiment were Cow manure + Urea, Buffalo manure + Urea, Goat manure + Urea, Buffalo manure + Goat manure + Urea and the Untreated Control. The required doses of Nitrogen for the crop were applied through treatments and that of Phosphorous and Potassium was petitioned from Single Super Phosphate (SSP) and Muriate of Potash (MOP), respectively. The quantities of nutrients were put in as recommended by Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) (i.e., 200:180:60 kg NPK per ha). The effect of Goat manure + Urea was found superior against plant height at 30 DAS (13.52 cm) and 45 DAS (32.15 cm), leaf area throughout the growth stage and in final mean fruit yield (12.33 t/ha). Meanwhile, the impact of Cow manure + Urea was found superior against plant height at 60 DAS (46.67 cm) and in case of reducing soil acidity (Soil pH = 6.75). Eventually, the experiment suggests the farmers to use Goat manure + Urea for desirable Okra production considering soil health and also with the application of Cow manure + Urea in the interval of (2-3) years ensuring the control over soil acidification.

Prevalence of antibodies against classical swine fever in two districts of Nepal

This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of Classical Swine Fever (CSF), caused by the Classical Swine Fever Virus (CSFV), in the Bhaktapur and Kavrepalanchok districts of Nepal. The primary objective was to determine the prevalence of antibodies against CSFV in the swine population, providing crucial insights for targeted interventions and control strategies. A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2018. The research involved structured questionnaire surveys and blood sample collection from selected farms in the study area. A total of 184 serum samples were collected and subjected to testing using the IDEXX ELISA test kit. The study evaluated seroprevalence by considering variables such as district, sex, age groups, and housing systems. Out of the 184 serum samples collected, 34 were found to be seropositive for CSFV antibodies, resulting in an overall seroprevalence of 18.40%. The study identified significant variations in seroprevalence between different factors, including districts, sexes, age groups, and housing systems. These findings indicate a notable exposure of swine populations in the Bhaktapur and Kavrepalanchok districts to CSFV. This research highlights the considerable risk posed by CSF to the pig populations in the Bhaktapur and Kavrepalanchok districts of Nepal. The identified seroprevalence and variations among different factors emphasize the importance of targeted interventions and control strategies in these regions. The findings serve as a foundation for informed decision-making to mitigate the impact of CSF, safeguard swine health, and protect the livelihoods of those dependent on the swine industry. This study was made possible with the support of the Zoonosis Control Project under the National Animal Science Research Institute, Nepal Agriculture Research Council.

Evaluation of Soil Fertility for Crop Production in Beel Chiroil, Pabna, Bangladesh

The study area is at Beel, Chiroil, Chatmohar, Pabna, Bangladesh. Ten soil sampling locations were selected from this area. Based on soil type and existing cropping patterns, soil samples were collected after harvesting the crops from each selected location of the study area. All soil samples (ten) were collected as per Soil Samples Collection Method of Soil Resources Development Institute (SRDI). The collected soil samples were submitted to the Central Laboratory of SRDI. The test results of the soil samples found that, the soil of the study area contained neutral soil pH (6.87), medium organic matter (3.58%), nitrogen (0.198 Meq/100g), potassium (0.256 Meq/100g) and zinc (1.15 μg/g), low phosphorus (13.503μg/g), sulfur (19.83 μg/g) and boron (0.28 μg/g) and very high iron (53.14 μg/g), calcium (20.288 Meq/100g) and magnesium (10.167 Meq/100g) on average. Interpretation of the soil test results indicate that, fertility condition of the research field will provides a good basis of fertilizer recommendation for the study area farmers. A recommendation of fertilizer doses is prepared according to Fertilizer Recommendation Guide, 2018 of Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC). The research also helps to suggest some suitable cropping patterns for the study area.