Alluvial Zone Research Articles

Comparative Analysis of Growth Responses in Indian Mustard to Azotobacter Priming and Vermicompost for Sustainable Cultivation

A study investigating the responses of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) to biopriming with Azotobacter, incorporation of vermicompost and their comparative analysis was performed in 2024 Rabi season in new alluvial zone at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia district, West Bengal. The research involved ten genotypes of Indian mustard and four treatments in completely randomized design. Treatments were designed as seeds sown in field soil, Azotobacter-primed seeds in field soil, seeds sown in vermicompost mixed with field soil, and Azotobacter-primed seeds in vermicompost with field soil. Eight key parameters were considered i.e. germination rate, seedling fresh and dry weight, seedling length, vigour index I and II, proline, and chlorophyll content. Results established improvements in germination and other growth parameters, particularly with the treatment combining Azotobacter priming and vermicompost, which presented the highest values across most genotypes. The performance of TM 306 - 1 and TBM 143 genotypes had produced the best results. The results emphasize the potential for utilizing biofertilizers and organic amendments in sustainable mustard cultivation, providing an effective substitute for chemical fertilizers.

Lipid Biomarkers in Urban Soils of the Alluvial Area near Sava River, Belgrade, Serbia.

This study focused on the investigation of soil samples from the alluvial zone of the Sava River, located near the heating plant in New Belgrade, Serbia. Using gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID), a broad range of alkanes, including linear n-alkanes (C10 to C33) and isoprenoids, was analyzed in all samples. The obtained datasets were effectively made simpler by applying multivariate statistical analysis. Various geochemical indices (CPI, ACL, AI, TAR, etc.) and ratios (S/L, Paq, Pwax, etc.) were calculated and used to distinguish between biogenic and anthropogenic contributions. This approach added a higher level of precision to the source identification of hydrocarbons and provided a detailed geochemical characterization of the investigated soil. The results showed that the topsoil had a high content of TPH (average value, 90.65 mg kg-1), potentially related to an accidental oil spill that occurred repeatedly over extended periods. The uncommon n-alkane profiles reported for the investigated soil samples are probably the result of inputs related to anthropogenic sources, emphasizing that petroleum was the main source of the short-chain n-alkanes. The methodology developed in this study was proven to be efficient for the assessment of the environmental quality of the soil in an urban part of New Belgrade, but it can also be a useful tool for soil monitoring and for a pollution assessment in other (sub)urban areas.

Influence of Granular Biostimulants on Growth and Yield Characteristics of Rice (Oryza Sativa) in New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal, India

Rice (Oryza sativa), the primary food source for over half of the global population, is critical to food security but faces productivity challenges from suboptimal fertilizer use and associated environmental degradation in India. Addressing these issues necessitates innovative strategies that enhance crop performance while maintaining ecological balance. Biostimulants, known for their role in enhancing nutrient efficiency and crop resilience, offer a promising solution for optimizing fertilizer use and improving soil health. This study evaluates the efficacy of AGMA Bio Stimulant Granules on the growth, yield, and soil health of rice during the kharif season of 2023 at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Kalyani, West Bengal. A randomized block design with eight treatments and three replications was employed, including combinations of AGMA granules with 100% and 80% recommended NPK doses. Results demonstrated significant improvements in growth parameters, yield attributes, and soil nutrient availability with AGMA application. Treatments T2 and T5, integrating AGMA granules with 100% and 80% NPK, respectively, achieved the highest grain yields, with T5 showing a 19% yield increase over the control. Soil health indicators, including organic carbon and available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, improved significantly, while electrical conductivity decreased. The study concludes that AGMA Bio Stimulant Granules enable a 20% reduction in NPK fertilizer use without compromising yields, underscoring their potential to support sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

Occurrence, distribution and description of Harmonia dimidiata (Fabricius), a predacious Coccinellid from West Bengal, India

Aim: To provide information about the occurrence and distribution of Harmonia dimidiata from West Bengal and facilitate the identification of species based on morpho-taxonomy. Methodology: Survey was done in different agro-climatic zones of West Bengal. Specimens were procured from their associated host plants, brought to the laboratory and investigated for taxonomic characters. Results: The morpho-taxonomy of H. dimidiata, as well as its host record, and distribution, were fully explained in the present investigation. It is most common in hill, terai, and old alluvial zone of West Bengal. They have been observed preying on Rhopalosiphum maidis (Fitch) in corn and Aphis gossypii (Glover). Interpretation: H. dimidiata population were recorded during survey from four different agro-climatic zones of West Bengal. They were observed to be preyed upon A. gossypii and R. maidis. The information about the biodiversity of H. dimidiata and their role as predator of numerous agriculturally important crop pests are extremely valuable that enrich our knowledge and immensely help in devising a pest management programme considering them as an important biocontrol agent. Furthermore, research on their biodiversity aids in learning about the predaceous behaviour in connection with the pest and crop populations, their reproduction and occurrence. This information is indeed praiseworthy while exploiting the ladybird species, H. dimidiata for a commercial biocontrol operation. Key words: Coleoptera, Coccinellidae, Harmonia dimidiata, Predaceous, West Bengal

Optimizing rice (Oryza sativa) growth, productivity, profitability and nutrient uptake with coated urea and organic manure in the new alluvial zone of West Bengal

A two-year field experiment was carried out at experimental farm of BCKV, Nadia, West Bengal during kharif seasons of 2019–20 and 2020–21 to study the effect of combined application of coated urea and organic manure on performance of rice. The experiment was laid-out in a randomized complete block design with four replications and treatment comprised 5 treatment combinations, such as T1 , control plot (without N); T2 , 100% recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) through neem-coated urea (NCU); T3 , 75% RDN through NCU + 25% RDN through FYM (farm yard manure); T4, 100% RDN through polymer sulphur coated urea (PSCU); T5, 75% RDN through PSCU+25% RDN through FYM. The results showed that 75% RDN through PSCU+25% RDN through FYM re- sulted in maximum growth attributes, viz. plant height (110.8 cm), maximum number of effective tillers per square meter (416/m2 ), highest dry-matter accumulation (DMA) (740 g/m2 ), leaf area index (LAI) (4.47) and crop growth rate (CGR) (6.56 g/m2 /day), highest yield components like panicle length (23.5 cm), panicle weight (9.95 g), num- ber of filled grains/panicle (113), test-weight (21.3 g) and maximum grain yield (4.79 t/ha) and straw yield (5.53 t/ ha). Similarly, maximum amount of total nutrient uptake by crop (99.7, 40.1 and 208 kg/ha NPK), protein yield (418 kg/ha), gross returns (` 71.8 × 103 /ha), net return (` 52 × 103 /ha) and B: C ratio (2.73) were noticed under T5 treat- ment. Therefore, it is advisable to implement a comprehensive nutrient management strategy T5 (75% RDN through PSCU + 25% RDN through FYM) in rice cultivation. This approach enhances growth, yield, nutrient absorption, and quality, ultimately boosting agricultural productivity, profitability, and sustainability.

Assessment of the Group Efficiency of the Farmers Producer Organization in the Old Alluvial Zone of Eastern India

Assessment of the Group Efficiency of the Farmers Producer Organization in the Old Alluvial Zone of Eastern India

Agroclimatic zone-wise prevalence of biofilm forming methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus in West Bengal

The present study envisages the prevalence of biofilm producing, methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, isolated from cattle milk of different agro-climatic zones of an eastern state of India, West Bengal. The milk samples (n=168) were collected from three predominant agro- climatic zones of South Bengal, viz. new alluvial, coastal saline and red laterite. A total of 146 Staphylococcus aureus isolates were recovered, confirmed by biochemical tests and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Through PCR of mecA gene, it was found that 45 strains were methicillin resistant, encompassing 28.57% new alluvial zone, 30.19% red laterite region and 29.16% coastal saline region. Determination of biofilm formation was done, both phenotypically by microtiter plate method and genotypically by PCR of icaA and icaD genes, specific for biofilm formation in Staphylococcus aureus. Phenotypic study revealed that 14 isolates were strong biofilm producers, 79 were moderate and the 47 were weak biofilm producers. PCR studies also showed that a total of 30 isolates were icaA positive and 25 isolates were icaD positive. Although no significant difference was found in the occurrence of icaA positive isolates, the possession of icaD by the Staphylococcus aureus isolates varied significantly according to different agro-climatic zones.

Effect of integrated nutrient management on baby corn (Zea mays L.) in new alluvial zone of West Bengal, India in rabi season

Effect of integrated nutrient management on baby corn (Zea mays L.) in new alluvial zone of West Bengal, India in rabi season

Post-Emergence Chemical Weed Control in Direct Seeded Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal

Direct seeded rice (DSR) seems to be a viable option under erratic rainfall and water scarcity. Despite several advantages of DSR, weeds are the major biological constraint. Afield experiment was conducted at Central Research Farm, Gayeshpur of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Vishwavidyalaya Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal during the kharif season ((July- November) of 2020 and 2021, comprisingnine weed control methods viz. T1- Imazethapyr 10% SL @ 1000 ml ha-1at 15 DAS, T2 - Imazethapyr 10% SL @ 1250 ml ha-1at 15 DAS ,T3- Imazethapyr 10% SL @ 2000 ml ha-1at 15 DAS, T4- Imazethapyr 10% SL @ 750 fb 750 ml ha-1at 15 DAS and 30 DAS, T5- Imazethapyr 10% SL @ 1000 fb 1000 ml ha-1at 15 DAS and 30 DAS, T6- Imazethapyr 10% SL @ 1250 fb 1250 ml ha-1at 15 DAS and 30 DAS, and T7- Imazethapyr 10% SL @ 2000 fb 2000 ml ha-1at 15 DAS and 30 DAS, T8- weed free check (2 times hand weeding at 20 DAS and 40 DAS) and T9- un-treated control (weedy check) along with 3 replicationslaid out in RBD design in herbicide tolerant rice variety Sava 134 was conducted during two consecutive kharif season of 2020 and 2021 at Central Research Farm, Gayeshpur, B.C.K.V., Nadia under new alluvial zone of West Bengal. The experimental results revealed that maximum grain and straw (4.20 and 4.36 t per ha), as well as net return (Rs. 44546per ha) were recorded in double hand weeding (T8), which was at par with Imazethapyr treated plots like T5, T6 and T7. Thus the tedious, time-consuming, and costly hand-weeding can be profitably replaced by the application of Imazethapyr 10% SL @ 1000 fb 1000 ml per ha at 15 and 30 DAS. This weed control methodhas satisfactory performance in DSR exhibiting higher weed control efficiency and no phytotoxicity symptoms to the herbicide tolerant rice crop and increased both grain and straw yields vis-à-vis benefit : cost ratio.

Spatiotemporal Shift of Soil Microbes in Conservation Agriculture under a Rice-Based Cropping System at the New Alluvial Zone of Lower Gangetic Plain

Spatiotemporal Shift of Soil Microbes in Conservation Agriculture under a Rice-Based Cropping System at the New Alluvial Zone of Lower Gangetic Plain

Weather Parameter’s Impact on Natural Parasitization by Campoletis chlorideae Uchida in Chickpea Ecosystem - New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal

Background: A major biotic constraint in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) production is gram pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner). However, the population of this pest is reduced to some extent by a solitary endo-larval parasitoid, Campoletis chlorideae Uchida under field conditions. Climate change has a greater impact on natural enemies’ effectiveness used in field-level pest management. Therefore, the present study was conducted to understand the impact of weather factors on C. chlorideae parasitization rate of H. armigera in chickpea grown in the new alluvial agro-climatic zone of West Bengal. Methods: Chickpea was grown in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications during Rabi 2017-18, 2018-19 and 2019-2020, at Mondouri farm, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Visawavidayala, Mohanpur, West Bengal. To know the most significant weather parameter which influences C. chlorideae parasitization or parasitoid incidence, H. armigera larvae (2nd instar) collected from the field experiment were reared until cocoon formation and parasitization % was correlated with weather parameters and subsequently subjected to stepwise regression analysis. Result: The larval endo-parasitoid, C. chlorideae marked its first appearance from 3rd SMW after the appearance of H. armigera and its activity was high (68% to 72% parasitization) during the flowering to pod initiation stage and thereafter declined gradually. Among the weather variables, only temperature (maximum and minimum) had a consistent and significant negative correlation with C. chlorideae incidence and was responsible for nearly 50% C. chlorideae incidence. An increase in 1°C temperature results in a decrease of 4% parasitoid incidence. Thus, climate change in the near future will have a considerable influence on the overall survival, development and rate of parasitization of parasitoids.

Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Helminths Infection in Buffalo of New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal, India

Aims: Epidemiology of naturally occurring gastrointestinal (GI) helminths was studied in buffalo of New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal and the role of different factors such as season, age, sex and rearing practices on prevalence was also recorded in the present study. Methodology: Monthly 120 faecal samples of buffaloes of New Alluvial Zone (NAZ) were collected and examined by standard parasitological techniques from April, 2016 to March, 2017. Results: The overall prevalence of GI helminths was recorded as 46.53% in buffalo of NAZ in West Bengal. Paramphistome (35.9%) was observed as the predominant parasite followed by Strongyle (9.93%), Fasciola (4.17%) and Toxocara (4.03%). Monsoon (54.58%) was found to be the most favourable season followed by winter (44.79%) and summer (40.21%) for GI helminths infection in buffalo. The overall prevalence (52.57%) as well as prevalence of Strongyle and Toxocara was higher in young buffaloes than the adult buffaloes (44.47%). The overall prevalence of GI helminths was higher in female buffalo (48.85%) than the male (40.74%) and the prevalence of individual parasites did not vary greatly between the two sexes of animals. Semi-intensive system (54.46%) of rearing showed higher prevalence of GI helminths than the intensive method (39.07%). Prevalence of Strongyle, Fasciola and Paramphistome was comparatively higher in animals maintaining under semi-intensive system than the intensive system of rearing. Conclusion: The results of the present study might be utilized for planning control programme against GI helminths in buffaloes of NAZ of West Bengal.

Evaluation of CMIP6 GCMs performance and future projection for the Boro and Kharif seasons over the new alluvial zones of West Bengal

Evaluation of CMIP6 GCMs performance and future projection for the Boro and Kharif seasons over the new alluvial zones of West Bengal

Effect of Growth Regulator and Anti-oxidant on Fruit Quality of Litchi (Litchi chinensis) cv. Bombai Grown in New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal

Effect of Growth Regulator and Anti-oxidant on Fruit Quality of Litchi (Litchi chinensis) cv. Bombai Grown in New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal

Morpho-cultural and molecular variability in Rhizoctonia solani isolates from rice-vegetable cropping alluvial zone of West Bengal

Morpho-cultural and molecular variability in Rhizoctonia solani isolates from rice-vegetable cropping alluvial zone of West Bengal

Genetic characterization and diversity analysis of indigenous aromatic rice

Gangetic old alluvial zone in India has conserved many locally adapted aromatic rice landraces. In order to determine the extent of genetic divergence of ten morphological characters, the study was conducted to examine forty-eight aromatic rice genotypes for six Kharif seasons (2016–2021) at the Instructional Farm of Regional Research Station (Old Alluvial Zone), Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Majhian, West Bengal, India. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. A considerable degree of variation was noted for all the traits being investigated. It was found that the total number of tillers per plant, panicle numbers per plant, number of grains per panicle, fertility percentage, test weight, and grain length/breadth ratio had significantly positive correlated with seed yield per plant. Based on D2 analysis values, all the genotypes were grouped into six clusters. Cluster III (Tulaipanji, Patnai, Basmati 1121, Jugal, and Bahurupi) and Cluster VI (Kanakchur), containing genotypes were found most divergent with maximum inter-cluster distance (6941.51). According to the cluster means, Cluster II had the largest intra-cluster distance (1937.52), and important attributes including test weight, number of grains per panicle, seed yield per plant, and fertility percentage made remarkably significant contributions to this cluster. In terms of principal component analysis, maximum variability was found in PC1 (23.88 %), with high positive loading values for tillers per plant (0.459), panicle number per plant (0.441), seed yield per plant (0.408), fertility percentage (0.364), test weight (0.264), and grain length/breadth (L/B) ratio (0.263). On the basis of biplot analysis, four genotypes, namely Shakbhati, Sugandhi, Bahurupi and Kanakchur, were identified as the most divergent types for the yield-attributing traits of aromatic rice. The diverse genotypes could be used as potential donors in future breeding programmes.

Effect of establishment methods on aromatic rice (Oryza sativa) genotypes in lower Gangetic plains of West Bengal

A field experiment was conducted at Jaguli, Nadia, West Bengal, India, during the rainy (kharif) season of 2016, to study the response of four aromatic (Oryza sativa L.) rice genotypes (‘Gobindabhog’, ‘Radhunipagal’, ‘Tulaipanji’ and ‘Kalonunia’) under 3 establishment methods [conventional planting, drum seeding and modified system of rice intensification (SRI)].The plants raised under modified SRI showed the maximum plant height at harvesting (136.7 cm), tiller production (298/m2 ) at 63 days after transplanting (DAT), and dry-matter production at 33 DAT (194 g/m2 /day) and 63 DAT (444 g/m2 /day). Conventional planting resulted in the highest grain yield (2.24 t/ha), head rice recovery (HRR) (55.2%) and net income (`32,593/ha), which were greater over the modified SRI (2.09 t/ha, 53.5% and `30,901/ha) and drum seeding method (2.0 t/ha, 53.2% and `32,192/ha). ‘Gobindabhog’ had the highest grain yield (2.35 t/ha), HRR (56.5%), net income (`39,754/ha) and benefit: cost (B:C) ratio (2.13) compared to the other genotypes; but ‘Kalonunia’ might be tried as a second option in New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal.

Inter-cropping patterns and nutrient management effects on maize growth, yield and quality

ContextIntercropping, a sustainable agricultural practice, is pivotal in enhancing land use efficiency, soil fertility, and overall crop productivity. This study zeroes in on the dynamics of Maize-Cowpea intercropping in the Alluvial Zone of West Bengal, a region characterized by its fertile soil and diverse agro-ecological conditions. The practice of intercropping, particularly in regions like West Bengal, holds immense potential in revolutionizing traditional farming methods by maximizing yield per unit area while ensuring sustainability. The study aims to unravel the complexities and benefits of this practice, especially in the context of the monsoon dependent Kharif season, which is crucial for agricultural productivity in the region. ObjectivesThe study aims to evaluate the effects of various Maize-Cowpea intercropping patterns and nutrient management strategies on maize growth, yield, and quality during the Kharif seasons of 2019 and 2020. It hypothesizes that intercropping, combined with optimal nutrient management, can significantly enhance maize performance. MethodsEmploying a split-plot design, the study analysed 25 treatment combinations of intercropping and nitrogen fertilization under sub-tropical sub-humid conditions. Advanced quantitative methods, including regression analysis and principal component analysis (PCA), were used to assess the interactions between intercropping systems and nutrient management practices. ResultsThe findings revealed that while sole maize cultivation showed better growth and yield, Maize-Cowpea intercropping, especially in a 1:1 row ratio, significantly increased the total system yield by 13.6%. This method also improved grain quality, notably enhancing crude protein content and nutrient percentage. A combination of 75% recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) through chemical means with 25% RDN through organic sources, including seaweed, was particularly effective in boosting maize performance. ConclusionsThe study confirms the superior performance of Kharif maize in an intercropping setup, particularly when integrated with cowpea. It demonstrates the effectiveness of specific nutrient management strategies in enhancing both quantitative and qualitative traits of maize. ImplicationsThis research significantly contributes to the field of sustainable agriculture, particularly in the context of field crops research and practice. The findings offer valuable insights for enhancing crop productivity and sustainability in similar agro-ecological regions globally. The study underscores the benefits of integrating legumes with cereals in intercropping systems, paving the way for innovative agricultural practices that can meet the dual challenges of food security and environmental sustainability. The implications of this research are far-reaching, providing a robust framework for future agricultural strategies in regions facing similar climatic and soil conditions.

Impact Analysis of the Mushroom Cultivation Training and Demonstrations Programme in the Old Alluvial Zone of West Bengal, India

Edible mushrooms are part of a delicious and nutrient-dense vegetarian diet. KVK Malda conducted front-line demonstrations and trainings to evaluate the profitability of oyster mushroom production from 2020 to 2022. It is found from the study that the benefit-cost ratio of oyster mushroom cultivation was significant, and the majority of the respondents participated in a mushroom cultivation training program to learn about mushroom growing techniques for self-consumption and become entrepreneurs. It was found from the study that the majority of the respondents were able to identify edible and wild mushrooms, and they used the bi-product of mushrooms for compost production. It is also found from the study that the majority of the farmers in the old alluvial zone discontinue mushroom cultivation due to a lack of marketing facilities.

Impact Assessment and Popularization of Improved Production Technology of Blackgram,Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper and Greengram,Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek through Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs) in Old Alluvial Soil of Malda, India

ABSTRACT Pulse production in Old Alluvial Zone, Malda is significantly low compared to their potentiality due to poor cultivation practices and adoption of traditional varieties by the farmers. Cluster Frontline Demonstration, which is a noble tool, was studied during 2017–2019 in two pulses viz. blackgram (var. PU-31) and greengram (var. PDM-139) to evaluate its impacts on technology adoption and bridge the gaps in yields among potential, demonstration, and farmers’ plots. In this study, variation of technology index (TI) was observed between 23.6–32.33% and 26.07–31.67% for blackgram and greengram, respectively; whereas extension yield gaps varied by 458.0–522.0 kg ha−1 and 462.0–508.0 kg ha−1, respectively. It was inferred that blackgram and greengram productivity can be enhanced by 76.46–90.43% and 82.06–84.53%, respectively, by adopting an improved package of farm technologies. The BCR (benefit–cost ratio) of blackgram and greengram in demonstration plots varied between 1.99–2.18 and 2.03–2.61, respectively; whereas in farmers’ plots they were 1.38–1.56 and 1.39–1.82, respectively, i.e., average BCR enhanced by 41.61% and 44.57% in demonstration plots over farmers’ plots of blackgram and greengram, respectively, by adopting improved production technologies. During 2017–19, improved production technology in demonstration plots increased the average water usage efficiency of blackgram and greengram by 42.25% and 82.79%, respectively. The yield variations between farmers’ plots and demonstration plots were statistically significant at p ≤ .01 significance level. It is hypothesized that CFLDs are quite feasible and have enormous potential to enhance blackgram and greengram productivity in prevailing farming situations of socio-economically poor farming communities of this region in a sustainable manner.