Kharif Season Research Articles

Impact of Kharif Pulses in North East India: Yield Gap and Economic Analysis

Background: The study was carried out to assess the performance of cluster frontline demonstrations (CFLDs) in terms of yield gap and economic analysis of black gram (var. PU-31, SBC-40, IPU- 02-43, SKPD-3) and green gram (Pratap, SGC-20, SGC-16, Samrat) in three states of North East i.e. Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Sikkim during 2016-2021 in kharif season. Methods: Krishi Vigyan Kendras of these three states conducted 4038, 2011 demonstrations covering 1460 ha, 630 ha area in black gram and green gram, respectively during 2016-2021 through improved production technology. Out of the total 6049 farmers randomly 2350 farmers were selected for testing their knowledge level and extent of adoption of improved practices by means of a well-structured scheduled. Result: The findings unveiled that in all the three states, average grain yield in demonstration fields were higher than farmer’s practice. Black gram recorded highest demonstration yield (9.83 q/ha) in Sikkim followed by green gram (8.87 q/ha) in Arunachal Pradesh as compared to farmers’ practices (6.64 q/ha) and (5.64 q/ha), respectively. However, Sikkim recorded highest net return of Rs. 86,644/ha in green gram and Rs. 32,328/ha in black gram. It was also observed that majority of farmers from Sikkim adopted most of the improved technologies with 62.33% followed by Assam (53.55%) and Arunachal Pradesh (50.00%) which is highly encouraging.

Effect of stingless bee (Tetragonula iridipennis) pollination on onion seed yield in Rabi and Kharif seasons

The present study on stingless bee was carried out during Rabi and Kharif of 2022-2023 in farmers field at Oddanchatram, Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu to evaluate their efficiency in pollinating onion, cultivated for seed purpose. Two fields (10 km apart) were used, one with stingless bees (2 colonies/acre) and one without. Foraging activity was monitored every 4 days over 36 days and onion seed yield and germination were compared between open pollination and covered umbels. During Rabi, peak foraging activity occurred from 1100 to 1200 h with 23.6 outgoing bees/5min/h. Pollen and nectar foragers peaked between 1200 and 0100 h with means of 6.5 and 20.1 bees/5min/h, while resin foragers showed peaks at 1200-0100 and 0500-0600 h. Managed pollination yielded 165 kg/acre with 88% germination compared to 120 kg/acre and 77% without bees. In Kharif, similar peaks were observed, with pollen, nectar and resin foragers averaging 4.3, 19.4 and 2.0 bees/5min/h, respectively. Seed yield was 150 kg/acre with stingless bee pollination versus 110 kg/acre without bees, with germination rates of 86% and 74%. Stingless bee pollination improved onion seed yield by 37.5% in Rabi and 36% in Kharif, demonstrating their significant role in boosting crop productivity. Future studies should explore the long-term impacts of stingless bee pollination on crop yields and biodiversity.

Integrated Pest and Disease Management Module in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) at Tiruchirappalli District, Tamil Nadu, India

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.), is not only an important oilseed crop of India but also an important agricultural export commodity and the second largest producer of groundnut in the world. The groundnut cultivation is often subjected to significant yield losses annually due to biotic and abiotic stresses which are the major limiting factors for attaining high productivity. In recent years, groundnut insect pest and disease management through integrated pest and disease management (IPDM) solutions has gained prominence due to the vulnerable effects of pesticides. A front line demonstration study (2020) was conducted at Trichy district during Kharif season involving IPDM module revealed that thrips and Spodoptera litura damage as well as tikka leaf spot was lesser in IPDM module than Farmers Practice (FP) and increased yield by 19 % when compared to FP. From the study it can be concluded that Groundnut under IPDM practices have higher yield than farmer’s practice.

Assessment of Crop Genetic Diversity Utilizing Multivariate Analysis in Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] Genotypes

Background: Understanding genetic variability parameters, correlation analysis and employing multivariate techniques such as principal component analysis and diversity analysis are crucial for designing effective breeding programs and conserving germplasm in pigeonpea. Morphological studies, when combined with multivariate analysis, offer valuable insights into genetic diversity, aiding in the selection of diverse parental lines and identifying promising segregants in hybridization programs. Methods: The study utilized 155 diverse genotypes of pigeon pea, planted in a randomized complete block design with three replications during the kharif seasons of 2022-23 and 2023-24. Character association analysis, multivariate analysis like PCA and diversity assessment were utilized. Result: Principal component analysis was employed to assess variability, where the first two principal components explained 35.63% of the total variability, with traits such as DFF, DM, NSB and NPP contributing significantly to variance. Morphological genetic diversity was assessed using Mahalanobis D2 statistics and hierarchical clustering. Morphological diversity assessment grouped the 155 pigeon pea genotypes into 9 clusters, with cluster I being the largest (88 genotypes). Hierarchical clustering identified 6 distinct clusters, with cluster-I housing the highest number of genotypes (43). Interestingly, the study revealed non-consistent connections between morphological diversity assessments and the geographical origin of genotypes. Based on genetic D2 values, genotypes in clusters VI and VII, followed by clusters VI and VIII, were found to be the most genetically distant, suggesting their potential use in hybridization programs to create diverse progenies. Selecting desirable genotypes from different clusters based on their performance could lead to the development of superior recombinants through hybridization.

Exploring genetic variability, diversity and trait associations in sunnhemp (Crotolaria juncea L.) accessions for yield improvement

Sunnhemp (Crotolaria juncea L.) is an important fibre crop known for its rapid growth and ability to improve soil fertility, making it a vital component of sustainable agriculture. However, to enhance its productivity and meet the increasing demand for high-quality fibre, it is crucial to identify and utilize genetically diverse genotypes with superior yield traits. The present study was conducted at the Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute, Aduthurai, Tamil Nadu, during the Kharif seasons of 2021 and 2022 to assess genetic variability and character association for yield and its component traits among 67 sunnhemp genotypes. Multivariate analyses, including principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis, were conducted using R software to dissect the phenotypic diversity among the genotypes. The results revealed substantial genetic variability for yield and its associated traits, indicating a promising potential for genetic improvement. Genotypes ADSH 1750, ADSH 1701, ADSH 1736, ADSH 1715, and ADSH 1742 exhibited superior performance in key yield-related traits, making them valuable candidates for future breeding programs focused on developing high-yielding, high-fibre varieties. Cluster analysis delineated four distinct clusters, with Clusters I and IV showing significant divergence and highlighting the presence of unique genetic material. Key plant production traits such as plant height, leaf breadth, basal stem diameter, yield, and number of leaves were the primary contributors to the first two principal components. These findings suggest that direct selection based on these traits could effectively improve biomass yield in future sunnhemp breeding efforts, contributing to the advancement of sustainable fibre crop production.

Growth, productivity, quality and profitability of organic finger millet under cultivar and nutrient management options

Cultivars and nutrient management determine productivity and quality of the organic finger millet. A field trial was carried out during the kharif season 2022 at Binjhagiri, Bhubaneswar, Odisha comprising the four cultivars of finger millet and four nutrient management practices through organic manure combinations with split plot design replicated thrice. The four cultivars namely, C1- ‘Arjuna’, C2- ‘Bhairabi’, C3- ‘Chilika’ and C4- ‘Kalua’ were assigned to the main plots. Recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) such as 50 kg ha-1 was supplied through varying percentage of organic manures namely, farmyard manure (FYM), neem oilcake (NOC) and vermicompost (VC). Four nutrient management practices such as N1- FYM (RDN100), N2- FYM (RDN40) + NOC (RDN30) + VC (RDN30), N3- FYM (RDN50) + NOC (RDN25) + VC (RDN25), N4- FYM (RDN60) + NOC (RDN20) + VC (RDN20) were assigned to the sub-plots. Combination of the treatments viz., C3N2, C4N2, C3N3 and C4N3 excelled over the others for grain and protein yields and profitability, but treatment combination C4N2 was the most promising considering the parameters like grain yield (2.10 tha-1), net return (Rs. 36940 ha-1), protein yield (165.75 kg ha-1), calcium yield (7.34 kg ha-1) and iron yield (0.137 kg ha-1). There was significant positive correlation of grain yield with all growth-yield parameters, except test weight, whereas regression analysis indicated 70.86, 85.21 and 73.45% contribution of tillers hill-1, dry matter production and leaf area index at harvest, respectively, to variations in grain yield. The organic finger millet growers should cultivate cv. ‘Kalua’ with application of FYM+NOC+VC @ 4.35+0.34+0.6 t ha-1 for achieving maximum yield and grain quality.

Evaluation of Genetic Diversity of Advanced Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh] Interspecific Derivatives Using Mahalanobis D2 and Selection of Elite Lines Using Multi-Trait Genotype-Ideotype Distance Index

The experiment was conducted during kharif (May–November, 2022) season at the field experimental area of the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana and at Regional Research Station, Faridkot, Punjab, India to assess the genetic diversity of 40 advanced BC1F8/F9 pigeonpea interspecific derivatives derived from a cross between Cajanus scarabaeoides (L.) Thouars (ICP 15683) and C. cajan (L.) Millspaugh (ICPL 20329) using Mahalanobis D2. The data for 11 key productivity traits was statistically analysed using R software. The derivatives were grouped into five clusters. Intra-cluster distances varied from 0.00 (Cluster V) to 107.40 (Cluster IV), while inter-cluster distances ranged from 123.49 (Cluster II and V) to 511.00 (Cluster IV and V). The derivatives in the present study were mostly divergent for harvest index, pods plant-1, primary branches and seed yield plant-1. The MGIDI index was remarkably efficient in selecting superior derivatives, resulting in desired gains across numerous traits. The MGIDI index highlighted six high-performing genotypes—AL 2581, AL 2611, AL 2577, AL 2613, AL 2606 and AL 2597. This research laid the groundwork for forthcoming pigeonpea hybridization initiatives, enabling the selection of parents based on both diverse genetic backgrounds and specific traits. The study suggested a targeted screening of lines within promising clusters for utilization in ongoing breeding programs, facilitating the development of valuable populations and hybrids.

Growth and yield of irrigated maize (Zea mays L.) as influenced by mechanization and nutrient management practices

Maize is a dominant and promising crop grown in almost all regions throughout the year for various purposes, owing to its wide adaptability. In India, the productivity of maize is low, which can be attributed to usage of conventional varieties, inadequate supply of organic and inorganic fertilizers, low adoption of mechanization practices, and the indiscriminate use of pesticides and fungicides etc. Among these factors, mechanization and nutrient management practices play a critical role in influencing productivity through supply of nutrients and ensuring timeliness of operations. Keeping in view the above facts, field experiments were conducted in the Department of Agronomy and the Department of Millets during Kharif seasons of 2018, 2019 and 2020 to study the growth and yield of irrigated maize as influenced by mechanization practices and nutrient management strategies. The results of mechanization experiment revealed that T3 - sowing by inclined plate planter (75 × 20 cm – drip tape irrigation) + spraying of pre-emergence herbicide (3 days after sowing (DAS) - after irrigation) + weeding by power weeder (30 - 35 DAS) achieved higher grain yield (5549 kg ha-1), net returns (Rs. 58, 158 ha-1), and B:C ratio (2.66). The results of nutrient management experiments revealed that the application of 250:75:75 kg NPK/ha (100% the recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) achieved higher grain yield (7327 kg ha-1), net returns (Rs. 73518/ha) and B: C ratio (2.50) in maize (T2).

Comparative Effects of Neem-coated Urea, Agrotain Urea and Nano Nitrogen on Nutrient Uptake of Paddy Crop

Aims: To evaluate the impact of innovative nitrogen management strategies, including neem-coated urea (NCU), nano fertilizers, and Agrotain urea, on nutrient use efficiency (NUE), NPK uptake, and rice productivity in the Southern Telangana Zone. Study Design: Randomized block design with 3 replications, including traditional and innovative nitrogen formulations combined with foliar-applied nano nitrogen sprays. Place and Duration of Study: Agricultural Research Institute, Rajendranagar, during the Kharif season of 2021&2022. Methodology: The experiment was conducted on the JGL 24423 rice variety. Treatments included varying nitrogen rates (100%, 50%, and 33% recommended dose of nitrogen [RDN]) applied as NCU (Neem Coated Urea), Agrotain UG (urea granules), or combinations with nano nitrogen sprays. Nitrogen was applied in three splits (transplanting, tillering, and panicle initiation). Nutrient uptake (NPK) was analyzed using standard laboratory methods, and statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA to assess treatment effects. Results: The 100% RDN-STCR (Soil Test Crop Response)-based NCU treatment demonstrated the highest mean nitrogen uptake (66.8 kg ha⁻¹ in grain, 53.7 kg ha⁻¹ in straw), phosphorus uptake (18.7 kg ha⁻¹ in grain, 9.5 kg ha⁻¹ in straw), and potassium uptake (37.7 kg ha⁻¹ in grain, 120.9 kg ha⁻¹ in straw). Reduced nitrogen treatments with nano nitrogen sprays showed moderate nutrient uptake.The control and nano nitrogen sprays alone had the lowest uptake levels. Conclusion: Nitrogen management strategies, particularly 100% RDN-STCR-based NCU, significantly enhanced NUE, nutrient uptake, and rice productivity, demonstrating their potential for sustainable rice cultivation.

Estimation of Actual Evapotranspiration and Crop Coefficient to Improve Water Use Efficiency of Sesamum (Sesamum indicum L.) in Kharif Season Using Digital Weighing Lysimeter

The study was conducted on Estimation of Actual Evapotranspiration and Crop Coefficient to Improve Water Use Efficiency of Sesamum (Sesamum indicum L.) in Kharif Season Using Digital Weighing Lysimeter,” was conducted during the 2023-24 Kharif season with the aim of enhancing sesamum water use efficiency. For estimation of actual evapotranspiration and crop coefficient following are the objectives were to calculate and compare reference evapotranspiration (ETr) using various methods, measure crop evapotranspiration (ETc) using a digital weighing lysimeter, estimate crop coefficient (Kc) value. ETr was calculated using six different methods: Penman-Monteith, Modified Penman-Monteith, FAO Radiation, Priestly-Taylor, Hargreaves-Samani, and Pan Evaporation. The result obtained from that is the seasonal ETr was found 328.53, 395.47, 369.37, 430.26, 416.04, 372.90 mm respectively. While calculating or estimating reference evapotranspiration it is observed that The Modified Penman Monteith method had the highest correlation (R²=0.98) with the standard Penman-Monteith method, while the FAO Radiation and Pan Evaporation methods also performed well. crop Evapotranspiration (ETc) of Sesamum crop, measured using a digital weighing lysimeter, ranged from 0.61 to 5.65 mm/day, with a total of 244.94 mm for the season and the Crop coefficients (Kc) values were calculated by ratio of crop Evapotranspiration (ETc) with Reference Evapotranspiration (ETr), from that polynomial regression models were developed to estimate daily Kc values based on the crop growth ratio (t/T). The daily Kc values determined by using the best fit polynomial equations were averaged over initial, development, mid-season and end-season stage, the Kc values developed by using different methods i.e (Penman-Monteith method) are 0.58, 0.77, 1.00, and 0.36; Kc values (Modified Penman Monteith method) were 0.48, 0.64, 0.84 and 0.32; Kc values (FAO Radiation method) were 0.61, 0.73, 0.91 and 0.33; Kc values (Priestly Taylor method) were 0.26, 0.61, 0.98 and 0.33; Kc values (Hargreaves Samani method) were 0.36, 0.58, 0.92 and 0.28; and Kc values (Pan Evaporation method) were 0.48, 0.65, 0.93 and 0.32, respectively. On an average Kc determined by Penman Monteith method, Modified Penman Monteith method, FAO Radiation method and Pan Evaporation method overestimated the Kc by 26.17, 7.00, 21.92 and 9.38 per cent, respectively compared to FAO-56 values. However, Priestly-Taylor method and Hargraves-Samani method underestimated Kc by 5.55 and 5.78 per cent, respectively.

Enhancing Paddy Yields with Advanced Nitrogen Fertilizers: A Study of Neem-coated Urea, Agrotain Urea and Nano Nitrogen

Aims: To evaluate and compare the performance of nano nitrogen, agrotain urea, and neem-coated urea in improving nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), crop yield, and sustainability in kharif (Vanakalam) and rabi (Yasangi) rice crops in the Southern Telangana Zone of India. Study Design: A field experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with 11 treatments and three replications to assess the effects of various nitrogen sources and application on rice productivity. Place and Duration of Study: The field study was planned from 2021 to 2023 at Institute of Soil Health Management, Agricultural Research Institute, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, from 2021 to 2023. Methodology: The experiment included treatments with varying nitrogen levels applied through nano nitrogen, agrotain urea, and neem-coated urea, including 100% Recommended Dose of Nitrogen (RDN), STCR (Soil Test Crop Response) based nitrogen, and reduced nitrogen doses (50% and 33% RDN). Dry matter yield at tillering, panicle initiation and harvest stages, grain and straw yield were measured at key growth stages (tillering, panicle initiation, and harvest) of rice crop. Results: In the kharif season, the highest dry matter yield at panicle initiation was recorded with 100% RDN using STCR based neem coated urea (7007 kg ha⁻¹), followed by agrotain urea (6199 kg ha⁻¹) and Neem coated urea (6019 kg ha⁻¹). Nano-ntrogen sprays with reduced nitrogen doses (50% and 33% RDN) showed significantly lower yields, with 50% RDN-STCR-based NCU yielding 5826 kg ha⁻¹ and 33% RDN-STCR-based NCU yielding 4899 kg ha⁻¹. In the rabi season, grain yields were highest with 100% RDN from STCR based N-NCU (7382 kg ha⁻¹), Agrotain urea (6741 kg ha⁻¹) and NCU (6561 kg ha⁻¹), while reduced nitrogen doses resulted in lower yields, ranging from 5886 kg ha⁻¹ (50% RDN) to 5142 kg ha⁻¹ (33% RDN) with STCR based N-NCU. Straw yield during kharif was highest with 100% RDN treatments (6540–7422 kg ha⁻¹), with reduced nitrogen doses and Nano-N sprays resulting in lower yields. The system straw yield showed the highest values with 100% RDN-STCR-based NCU (16277 kg ha⁻¹), followed by agrotain urea (14888 kg ha⁻¹) and NCU (14284 kg ha⁻¹). Nano-N sprays alone produced a system straw yield of 8119 kg ha⁻¹, higher than the control (7732 kg ha⁻¹), but significantly lower than 100% nitrogen treatments. Conclusion: Full nitrogen applications (100% RDN) through innovative fertilizers like agrotain urea, and neem coated urea resulted in significantly higher crop yields and nutrient uptake compared to reduced nitrogen doses. The study highlights the critical role of adequate nitrogen in improving nitrogen use efficiency and sustaining rice production systems, with substantial yield gains observed at 100% RDN (up to 44% for grain yield and 37% for straw yield).

Influence of Nano Urea on Growth Yield and Nutrient Uptake of Blackgram

Background: There is no doubt that the enormous increase in global food production is a direct result of greater use of inorganic fertilizers. However, a number of research studies indicate that the rising use of conventional fertilizers has resulted in major environmental risks, including soil and water body contamination. Nanotechnology and nano-fertilizers have recently been used in agriculture to create healthier solutions. Therefore, there is a pressing need to improve the N availability for plants, while reducing its harmful effects to the soil and environment. Methods: Keeping this point of view, the pot culture experiment was carried out to study the “Impact of nano-urea (Liquid) on blackgram (VBN 8) (Vigna mungo L.) Productivity” with an objective of study the influence of Nano-Urea on growth and yield attributes of Blackgram. The experiment was conducted at Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Pollachi during the Kharif (June-September) season of 2022 and 2023. The treatment includes application of various level of nano urea (1.25 litres ha-1) as foliar spray and soil application along with recommended dose of P and K in comparison with RDF and control (without any nutrient). The treatments were replicated three times in a completely randomized block design. Result: Among the different treatment combination, application of nano-urea (Liquid) 1.25 litres ha-1 as Foliar Spray (FS) (IFFCO) + P and K RDF (T2) resulted in higher pod weight (4.1 and 6.2 g plant-1) and seed weight (3.2 and 3.6 g plant-1) in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Application of nano-urea (Liquid) 1.25 litres ha-1 as Foliar Spray (FS) + PandK RDF responded equally with RDF + Urea 1% foliar spray on better growth and development of blackgram. At the critical juncture, adequate nitrogen from nano-urea would have ensured a steady supply of nitrogen, stimulating meristematic activity and cell elongation in plants and improving the crop performance.

Effect of Recommended and Graded Doses of Biochar with and without ZMB Biofertilizer and Zinc on the Growth Attributes of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023 at the Students' Instructional Farm, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj Ayodhya, to assess the impact of graded doses of biochar, varying fertility levels, and the addition of biofertilizers and zinc on rice cultivation under partially reclaimed sodic soils. Nine treatments were applied, including combinations of recommended doses of fertilizers (RDF), biochar (5 t ha⁻¹ and 2.5 t ha⁻¹), biofertilizer (ZMB), and zinc sulphate (ZnSO₄) in a randomized block design with three replications. The treatments were: T1 (Control), T2 (100% RDF), T3 (50% RDF), T4 (50% RDF + 5 t ha⁻¹ biochar), T5 (50% RDF + 5 t ha⁻¹ biochar + ZMB), T6 (50% RDF + 5 t ha⁻¹ biochar + ZMB + ZnSO₄), T7 (100% RDF + 2.5 t ha⁻¹ biochar), T8 (100% RDF + 2.5 t ha⁻¹ biochar + ZMB), and T9 (100% RDF + 2.5 t ha⁻¹ biochar + ZMB + ZnSO₄). The rice variety NDR 2065 was used as the test crop. Growth parameters such as plant height, dry matter accumulation, root length, root volume, number of tillers, and panicle length were evaluated. The results showed that the treatment T9 (100% RDF + 2.5 t ha⁻¹ biochar + ZMB + ZnSO₄) produced the highest growth and quality parameters, indicating a significant improvement in rice performance. The study suggests combining biochar, biofertilizers, and zinc under reduced fertilizer levels can enhance rice growth and productivity in sodic soils, offering a sustainable approach to soil fertility management.

Effect of Organic, Inorganic and Natural Farming Practices on Microbial Activity at Rhizosphere in Cotton and Greengram Intercropping System

A field experiment was conducted during the kharif season 2021-22 at Natural Farming Project plot - E 131, Main Agricultural Research Station, UAS, Dharwad on clayey soils to study the effect of different farming practices and foliar application of different organic liquid manures on soil microbial activity of cotton+ greengram rhizosphere. The results revealed that maximum number of microbial populations viz., Bacteria (18.50, 59.22 and 33.83 ×105 cfu g soil-1 (cfu {colony forming unit}), fungi (4.67, 4.61 and 3.67 ×104 cfu g soil-1), actinomycetes (11.72, 9.61 and7.17 ×103 cfu g soil-1), N2 fixers (12.61, 19.61 and 17.44 ×105 cfu g soil-1) and PSM´S (6.94, 14.83 and 13.11 ×105 cfu g soil-1) at harvest stage of greengram, at 90 DAS and harvest stage of cotton was significantly found in organic farming practices. Among liquid organic manures, foliar application of Jeevamrutha @100 % recorded higher number of bacteria (21.17, 61.67 and 35.83 ×105 cfu g soil-1), fungi (5.17, 6.17 and 5.17 ×104 cfu g soil-1), actinomycetes (12.83, 10.50 and 7.00 ×103 cfu g soil-1), N2 fixers (15.67, 21.33 and 18.50 ×105 cfu g soil-1) and PSM´S (8.50, 17.00 and 15.17 ×105 cfu g soil-1) at harvest stage of green gram, 90 DAS and harvest stage of cotton. When compared with recommended package of practices, foliar application of Jeevamrutha @100 % under organic farming practices recorded higher number of bacteria (26.33, 64.00 and 36.33 ×105 cfu g soil-1), fungi (5.67, 6.67 and 5.67 ×104 cfu g soil-1), actinomycetes (13.67, 11.00 and 8.00 ×103 cfu g soil-1) and PSM´S (9.33, 18.00 and 16.33 ×105 cfu g soil-1) at harvest stage of greengram, at 90 DAS and harvest stage of cotton than all other treatments. Foliar application of vermiwash @ 20% recorded highest N2 fixers (23.67 and19.67 ×105 cfu g soil-1) at 90 DAS and harvest stage of cotton.

Assessing cropping system dynamics over three decades: remote sensing and GIS insights in Murshidabad-Jiaganj Block.

Agriculture is a significant contributor to the country's economic development. We used multiple Landsat images from 1990 to 2021 in the Murshidabad-Jiaganj Block to assess changes in the agricultural system and their underlying causes. The Rabi season saw a 10.99% growth in agrarian regions from 1990 to 2000 and an 8.86% increase in 2010, yet it declined by 28.12% in 2021. During the summer, the cultivated lands diminished by 26.63%, 19.43%, and 19.64%, while in the Kharif season, they declined by 21.78%, 15.68%, and 11.99% from 1990 in the years 2000, 2010, and 2021, respectively. The agricultural area had 36.82%, 34.16%, and 19.01% increases between 1990 and 2021, respectively. Regarding direction, farmland acreage decreased in all zones except the SSE, which had a 0.95% increase. Mono-, double-, and triple-cropping systems have decreased in area, while multi-cropping systems have experienced increases of 43.51%, 4.50%, and 18.49% in 1990-2021, respectively. The multi-cropping system has a good correlation with all agroclimatic factors. The reduction of irrigated lands post-2009 significantly affected the agriculture system. The fall in agricultural employment in recent decades is attributable to migration seeking higher-paying occupations. The advancement of accurate remote sensing-based modeling is crucial for mitigating food security risks, particularly those posed by climate change, and informing policy decisions.

Integrated Nutrient Management Strategies for Red Gram, Sorghum and Blackgram-Based Intercropping Systems

A field experiment was conducted at the National Pulses Research Centre, Vamban, Pudukkottai District, during the kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023 to evaluate integrated nutrient management strategies for redgram-based intercropping systems. The study included two intercropping treatments: (I₁) Redgram + Sorghum (1:2) and (I₂) Redgram + Blackgram (1:2), along with three organic fertilizer treatments: (F₁) Recommended Dose of Fertilizer (RDF), (F₂) RDF + Vermicompost @ 2.5 t ha-1, and (F₃) RDF + Farmyard Manure (FYM) @ 5 t ha-1. Two biofertilizer treatments were also evaluated: (B₁) without Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) and (B₂) with PSB. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The study utilized the red gram variety VBN 3, intercropped with the sorghum variety K 11 and the black gram variety VBN 6. Results indicated that the redgram + blackgram (1:2) intercropping system produced the highest redgram plant height (347.6 cm), branches per plant (21.2), and number of pods (295.8 per plant). This system also achieved the highest redgram seed yield (858 kg ha-1), redgram grain equivalent yield (1139 kg ha-1), and benefit-cost ratio (2.69). The application of RDF + vermicompost at 2.5 t ha-1 produced the tallest redgram plants (348.8 cm) and the highest number of branches (21.6), with significantly higher pod numbers (300.6 per plant) and seed yield (856 kg ha-1). PSB application further enhanced seed yields, with the highest redgram grain equivalent yield (1122 kg ha-1) and benefit-cost ratio (2.76). The study concluded that the combination of redgram + blackgram intercropping, RDF + vermicompost, and PSB application offers an effective integrated nutrient management strategy, optimizing both grain yields and profitability.

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

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

Introgression of qDTY1.1 into genetic background of a modern rice variety (ADT36) and field performance under different environmental conditions

Drought stress significantly affects rice, a semi-aquatic plant critical for global food security, especially in rainfed areas where yield losses are severe. This study focused on enhancing the drought tolerance of the short-duration rice variety ADT36 through the introgression of qDTY1.1 using marker-assisted backcrossing. Field evaluations were conducted under moisture conditions (MC) (Rabi season, 2022-23) and flood conditions (FC) (Kharif season, 2023). Under MC, the growth rates of the improved lines showed a significant negative difference compared to FC. In the BC3F2 generation, the improved lines exhibited a dwarf phenotype due to the linkage of the sd-1 gene with qDTY1.1, contrasting with the recurrent parent (RP) under MC. However, in the BC3F3 generation under flooding, three recombinant lines (RL-1, RL-3, RL-4) showed increased plant height compared to the RP. Regarding grain yield, there was an increase ranging from 16.3% to 17.8% compared to the RP under MC. Remarkably, under flooding, RL-1 (38.2%), RL-2 (39.6%), RL-3 (42.5%), and RL-4 (21.3%) exhibited significantly higher grain yields compared to MC. This consistent performance of qDTY1.1 in the genetic background of ADT36 suggests these lines are suitable for diverse environmental conditions, highlighting their potential in subsequent trials.

Efficacy of pre and post emergence herbicides on diverse weed flora of direct seeded rice

A field experiment was conducted during kharif (Rainy) season of 2023 at Crop Research Farm, SHUATS. The treatments consisted of pre emergence application of Pendimethalin at 0.75 and 1.0 kg/ha in combination with hand weeding, pre - emergence application of pretalachlor at 0.40 and 0.75 kg/ha in combination with hand weeding, pre - emergence application of pendimethalin at 0.75 and 1.0 kg/ha, pre emergence application of pretalachlor at 0.40 kg/ha and 0.75 kg/ha in combination with post - emergence application of bispyribac sodium at 0.025 kg/ha, hand weeding and weedy check (control). Next to hand weeding preemergence application of pendimethalin at 1.0 kg/ha in combination with hand weeding recorded highest weed control efficiency(76.97%), effective tillers (185.53) and yield attributes namely more no. of grains/ panicle(108.40) and grain yield (5.98t/ha).

Studies on the effect of fertigation levels and silverblack polyethylene mulch on the growth and yield of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-2019 at Zonal Research Station, Darisai, East Singhbhum, Jharkhand to study the effect of fertigation levels and plastic mulching on growth and yield of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). The experiments were laid out in randomized block design with seven treatments viz; T1 - 100% RDF through fertigation with silver black polyethylene mulch, T2 - 100% RDF through fertigation without mulch, T3 - 75% RDF through fertigation with silver black polyethylene mulch, T4 - 75% RDF through fertigation without mulch, T5 -50% RDF through fertigation with silver black polyethylene mulch, T6 - 50% RDF through fertigation without mulch, T7 - 100% RDF through farmer’s practice (control) and were replicated thrice. The results indicated that the fertigation through 75% recommended dose of fertilizers along with silver black polyethylene mulch recorded higher brinjal yield (151.33 q ha-1) compared to soil application of fertilizer (71.05 q ha-1). Plant height, number of branches per plant and yield increased significantly through fertigation with polyethylene mulch compared to soil application of fertilizer. Fertilizer use efficiency (FUE) was highest (129.28 kg/kg of nutrient) in 50% RDF through fertigation with mulchand lowest (35.52 kg/kg of nutrient) under 100% RDF through farmer’s practice. Among different fertigation levels, fertigation through 75% recommended dose of fertilizers with silver black polyethylene mulch resulted in maximum net income (Rs189758.21ha-1) and benefit cost ratio (2.27) while minimum net income (Rs 74409.07 ha-1) and benefit cost ratio (1.38) was recorded in 100% RDF through farmer’s practice (control).