014176   Madhukeshwara B P;Sajjan A S;Deshpande V K (Seed Science & Technology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Dharwad-580 005, Email: assajjan@gmail.com) : Effect of seed inoculation with bio-fertilizer and KH₂PO₄ on seed quality and yield in maize. Green Fmg 2016, 7(5), 1240-3.

The laboratory-cum-field experiment was conducted during 2014 at Department of Seed Science and Technology, UAS, Dharwad, to study the influence of inoculation on seed quality and yield in maize hybrid GH-0727. The experiment was carried out in Completely Randomized Block Design in four replications with ten treatments viz., control, KH₂PO₄ @ 1 per cent, Azospirillum brasilense @ 10 per cent, A. brasilense @ 20 per cent, Pseudomonas striata @ 10 per cent, Pseudomonas striata @ 20 per cent, A. brasilense @ 10 per cent + KH₂PO₄ @ 1 per cent, P. striata @ 10 per cent + KH₂PO₄ @ 1 per cent, A. brasilense @ 10 per cent + KH₂PO₄ @ 1 per cent and P. striata @ 10 per cent + KH₂PO₄ @ 1 per cent. The results indicate that seed inoculation with A.brasilense @ 20 per cent was the best treatment to enhance the seed quality parameters and higher yield in maize hybrid as compared to other treatments.

4 tables, 16 ref

014175   Lyngdoh Y A;Mulge R;Shadap A;Singh J;Sangwan S (Vegetable Science Div, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi-110 012, Email: jogendra169@gmail.com) : Combining ability analysis in near homozygous lines of okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] for yield and yield attributing parameters. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(1), 324-31.

Line x tester analysis was carried out with the objective of identifying the good combiners and to decide the breeding strategies for developing potential and productive genotypes or cultivars. Parents and hybrids differed significantly for GCA and SCA effects for all the characters respectively. Specific - 283 - combining ability (SCA) variance was higher than the general combining ability (GCA) variance which shows the predominance of non-additive gene action for the improvement of all the characters studied. The parents and crosses having highest and significant GCA and SCA effects viz., KO-18 (13.69), KO-6 (9.54) and KO-2 x Parbhani Kranti (19.28) for plant height; KO-12 (0.34), KO-14 (0.19) and KO-5 x V5 (0.60) for number of branches per plant; KO-14 (-0.66) and KO-15 x Arka Anamika(-1.66) for days to first flowering; KO-1(1.10), Arka Anamika (0.46) and KO-9 x VRO-5 (3.28) for fruit length; KO-7 (7.91), VRO-5(1.68) and KO-18 x VRO-6 (8.64) for average fruit weight; KO-2 (1.18) and KO-17 x Arka Anamika (2.80) for number of fruits per plant; KO-9(0.05), VRO-6 (0.01) and KO-11 x VRO-6 (0.10) for total yield per plant were identified as good general and specific combiners. The results establish the worth of heterosis breeding for effective usage of non-additive genetic variance in okra.

3 tables, 18 ref

014174   Loria N;Bhardwaj S K;Ndungu C K (Environmental Science Dep, Dr. Y. S. Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan-173 230, Email: lorianancy@gmail.com) : Impact of cropping systems on soil properties, nutrient availability and their carbon sequesteration potential in Shiwalik hills of Himachal Pradesh. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(3), 1479-84.

The impact of cropping systems on soil properties, nutrient availability and their carbon sequestration potential was studied during the years 2014 and 2015 in Shiwalik hills of Himachal Pradesh. The four commonly occurring cropping systems namely vegetable, fruit, cereal crop and agroforestry were selected. Uncultivated land in the region was considered as control. In total, there were five treatments which were replicated six times under ran-domized block design. The study indicated that the cropping systems in the Shiwalik hills varied significantly (P=0.05) with respect to their impact on soil properties, nutrient availability and carbon sequestration potential. The pH and EC was in the range of 6.04 to 6.90 and 0.094 to 0.138 dSm-1, respectively and were normal in range. Or-ganic carbon and bulk density in surface soils ranged from 8.06 to 9.70 g kg^-1 and 1.19 to 1.34 Mg m-3, respectively. The available NPK was highest (267.21, 19.99, 172.42 kg ha-1) under vegetable based cropping system as com-pared to other systems. Carbon density in surface soil ranged from 11.33 to 15.39 Mg C ha-1 and total carbon se-questered upto 30cm soil depth ranged from 601.96 to 12646.29 Gg. The study indicated that in Shiwalik hills of Himachal Pradesh, the commonly occurring cropping systems did not influence the soil properties and nutrient avail-ability adversely. Agroforestry based cropping system is having highest potential of sequestering soil carbon in Shi-walik hills. Therefore to adapt to changing climatic situation and to mitigate its effect in the region, agroforestry based cropping system need to be encouraged.

1 illus, 4 tables, 35 ref

014173   Lokhande J N;Kale M U;Wadatkar S B (Irrigation and Drainage Engineering Dep, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola-444 104, Email: kale921@gmail.com) : Trend of crop water requirement at Akola (Maharashtra), India. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(1), 441-4.

Climate change scenario badly affects the agriculture. The present study aimed to characterize the trend in maximum temperature and crop water - 282 - requirement over a last decade at Akola station (Maharashtra State), because of changing trend in meteorological parameters. Study investigated the trends in temperature and reference evapotranspiration using various statistical parameters like mean, coefficient of variation, coefficient of skewness and coefficient of kurtosis. Monthly maximum air temperature showed slightly decreasing trend over summer season while increasing trend over monsoon and winter season. On the contrary, the monthly reference evapotranspiration showed decreasing linear trend over monsoon and winter season, while increasing trend over summer season. The study concluded that as the monthly reference evapotranspiration showed decreasing linear trend over cropping seasons (i.e. monsoon and winter), the crop water requirement at Akola station shall decrease in future.

2 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

014172   Lingappa M;Kuligod V B (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, University of Agricultural Science, Dharwad-580 005, Email: mallu.maski@gmail.com) : Characterization of soils of Ghataprabha Left Canal command area of North Karnataka for salinity and sodicity. Indian J agric Res 2017, 51(1), 82-5.

Study was conducted to characterize soil salinity and sodicity of Ghataprabha Left Bank Canal command area of Mudhol taluk (Bagalkot District). Bulk Electrical conductivity of salt affected soils was determined by using electromagnetic induction (EM 38). The pHs of surface and sub-surface soil layers ranged from 7.4 to 8.7 and 7.7 to 8.6, respectively. Electrical conductivity of saturated extract of surface and sub-surface soils ranged from 4.2 to 59.9 dSm^-1 and 4.2 to 57.0 dSm^-1. Majority of soil samples were found to be saline as sodium absorption ratio (SAR) ranged between 0.3 to 10.8 and 0.5 to 10.9 for surface and sub-surface soil, respectively. Among the analysed surface soil samples, 26 per cent were saline, 18 per cent sodic and 56 per cent were saline-sodic. On the other hand, 26, 20 and 54 per cent of soils were catagorized into saline, sodic and saline-sodic, respectively. Among the water soluble cations, Na⁺ (10.9 to 73.4 cmol (P⁺) kg^-1) pre-dominated in surface and sub-surface horizons (10.9 to 65.2 cmol (P⁺) kg^-1). Among water soluble anions. Cl^- dominated both in surface (2.0 to 60 me L^-1) and sub-surface (2.0 to 59 me L^-1).

1 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

014171   Lavanya V;Nidoni U;Kisan B; Amarananjundeshwara H;Ramya V (Processing and Food Engineering Dep, College of Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Raichur, Karnataka, Email: 90.lavanya@gmail.com) : Physiological characterization of jasmine flower (Jasminum sambac) senescence during storage. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(3), 1475-8.

The aim of this work was to identify metabolic differences and hormonal profiles in jasmine flower (Jasminum sambac) and to investigate the possibility that experimental promotion of retardation of the senescence of jasmine flower may mediated by abscisic acid (ABA) and phenolic content. Determinations of ABA and phenols were made in flower senescing under different conditions using two different packaging materials such as polyethyl-ene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) of 200 gauge micron thickness with no ventilation. Pre-treatment of 4% boric acid for jasmine flowers was selected. Abscisic acid levels in petals also increased during senescence 91.27 pmol g-1, but much less in boric acid-treated jasmine flower 34.16 pmol g-1. However, the lowest content of total phenolics was measured in buds and partially opened flowers 50.90 μg/g but highest in fully opened 61.80 μg/g on the fourth day of storage, respectively. It was concluded that boric acid prevented the early rise in ethylene production and consid-erably improved jasmine flower shelf-life.

2 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

014170   Lal M;Kanwar H S;Kanwar R;Lal C (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Dr. Y.S. Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry Nauni, Solan-173 230, Email: manoharlal647@gmail.com) : Effect of planting density and training on plant health and seed quality of bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) under protected conditions. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(3), 1219-22.

A study was conducted at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horti-culture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (H.P.), India during Kharif 2012 to evaluate the effects of the different planting densities and training systems on plant health (powdery mildew severity) and seed quality of bell pepper cv. Solan Bharpur under pro-tected conditions (polyhouse). Experiment was laid out in naturally ventilated polyhouse using three different planting densi-ties (S₁ - 45 x 15 cm, S2 - 45 x 30 cm and S3 - 45 x 45 cm) and four training levels (T₁ - single shoot, T₂ - two shoots, T₃ - three shoots and T₄ - four shoots)with three replicates. The combination S₂T₂ (plants spaced at 45 x 30 cm and trained to two shoots) was found superior over all other treatments in terms of seed yields i.e. per plant and per hectare (18.00 g and 959.87 kg, respectively) and was at par with important quality characters. The treatment combination S₃T₁ (plant spaced at 45 x 45 cm and trained to single shoot) resulted in least powdery mildew severity (21.21%) and performed best for seed qual-ity characters viz. 1000 seed weight, germination percentage, seedling length, seedling dry weight, seedling vigour index-I & II (6.32 g, 95.75%, 10.86 cm, 3.26 mg, 1039.77 and 312.34, respectively) but it gave lower seed yield and thus it is uneconomic. Therefore, planting density 45 x 30 cm in combination with two shoot training system can be recom-mended for commercial seed production of bell pepper under protected conditions.

2 tables, 22 ref

014169   Lal C;Guleria C;Prasher R S;Sharma R (Social Sciences Dep, Dr. Y.S. Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan-173 230, Email: negi.chaman9@gmail.com) : Factors affecting people's participation in joint forest management programmes in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(3), 1530-3.

The present investigation examined the various factors affecting people's participation in the planning, implementation and maintenance of JFM programmes in the tribal district (Kinnaur) of Himachal Pradesh. In total, 10 factors were identified that influence people's participation in Joint Forest Management (JFM) activities in the study area, which were independently affecting in all of three development blocks. District as a whole factors affecting in decreasing order were Lack of awareness about participatory forest management (66%), lack of co-ordination with forestry officials (64%), non availability of routine funds (56%), lack of training and visit program (56%), clash between agriculture and JFM activities (54%), lack of emphasis on quick economic activities (49%), improper usu-fruct sharing (43%) etc. were some of major factors that influenced people's participation. Policy and development emphasis on these factors, particularly taking into consideration the geography and need based activity in the various development blocks will increase the people's participation in similar kind of projects.

2 tables, 14 ref

014168   Lakshmi V D;Rao J K;Ramprakash T;Reddy A P K (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, PJTSAU, Rudrur, Nizamabad, Telangana State, Email: vijjiprabhu888@gmail.com) : Fluoride accumulation by crops grown in parts of Nalgonda district, Telangana state, India. Envir Conserv J 2017, 18(1-2), 79-86.

Study was carried out to assess accumulation of fluoride in vegetables and cereal crop grown in potentially fluoridated area in Nalgonda district, Telangana, India. The results indicated that, accumulation of fluoride (F) was observed in different plant parts of crops irrigated with F contaminated ground water (0.73 to 3.25 and 1.12 to 4.67 mg L^-1 during kharif and rabi seasons, respectively) grown in soil containing 0.41 to 2.32 and 0.68 to 2.63 mg kg^-1 available fluoride during kharif and rabi seasons, respectively. The concentration range in plant parts of different crops is 0.12 to 3.35 mg kg^-1 and 0.30 to 3.95 mg kg^-1 in kharif and rabi, respectively. The values are lower than the maximum allowed level of 4.0 mg kg^-1 in food and vegetable recommended by FAO and WHO. The implication of the results is that the use of the ground water for irrigation, and the contribution of fluoride to the soil and absorption by the crops, has no deleterious effect on the soil and some crops cultivated with ground water. The mean F levels in the economic part of the crops analyzed are follows the order; paddy > sorghum > red gram in kharif and groundnut > paddy > sorghum in rabi. Among the vegetables, tomato accumulated higher F followed by brinjal and bhendi. Maximum accumulation of F (mg kg^-1 dry wt.) occurred in the roots followed by shoot and economic part.

2 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

014167   Lakshmi P V;Purnima K S (Associate Professor, Extension Education Institute (EEI), Hyderabad) : Farming performance of farm women in rice based farming systems of Andhra Pradesh. J Agric Ext Mgmt 2016, 17(1), 37-46.

The study was conducted in three districts, one from each region of undivided Andhra Pradesh. Three mandals from each selected district and two villages from each selected mandal were chosen. Ten farm women were chosen randomly from each village thus making a total sample of 180 farm women equally selected from three categories i.e., Large, Medium and Small based on their farm size, based on stratified random sampling. The farming performance of farm women in rice based farming systems of the three regions was analysed using six selected indicators, viz., cropping intensity, crop yield index, milk yield index, level of adoption, commercialization, expansion / diversification. The findings revealed that there was significant difference in the mean scores among the three categories of farm women in respect of overall performance. In other words, the large category farm women had the highest mean score of 395.0 followed by medium farm women (378.86). The small farm women had the least mean score of 373.62 in respect of overall farming performance.

2 tables, 6 ref

014166   Kyrdar S S;Karaca O B (Animal Products Hygiene and Technology, Health Science Institute, 1MehmetAkif Ersoy Univ, 15130 Burdur-Turkey, Email: skirdar@mehmetakif.edu.tr) : Overview of the Turkish dairy sector. Indian J Dairy Sci 2017, 70(3), 251-7.

This review provides information about the milk and milk products sector in Turkey. The Turkish food and agricultural sector has 24,000 enterprises, of which 18%, some 4,320 enterprises, are in the dairy sector. Total raw milk production amounted to 18.5 million tons in 2015. Turkey ranks 10th among world milk producers. The production of raw milk is mainly from cows and accounts for an average of 91-92% of the total production. Generally speaking, family labor constitutes much of the workforce for the current 1,700,000 dairy farms in Turkey. The collected cow milk is processed into drinking milk, cheese, yogurt, ayran (a drink made of yogurt and salt) and other dairy products like butter, kefir, milk cream, and ice cream. Annual production of dairy products can be broken down into fresh milk (251,632 tons), yogurt (1.1 billion - 279 - tons), cheese (201,260 tons), butter (45,000 tons), ayran (51, 844 tons) and cream (1,383 tons). Data shows that 35% of milk is used by farm families for their own consumption or processing, 11% is sold by street vendors and 54% is processed by mandiras (small, simple dairy processing establishments). Dairy products are marketed in three ways: Organized distribution (networks), with a share of 31%, non-organized distribution (individual shops), with a share of 44%, and open distribution (bazaars), with a share of 25%.

2 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

014165   Kumar S;Singh M;Sharma S (Plant Pathology Dep, College of Agriculture, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural Un, Hisar-125 004, Email: skvrrsbawal@rediffmail.com) : Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria induced resistance in Jatropha curcas through phenyl propanoid metabolism against Rhizoctonia bataticola. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(1), 121-8.

The root rot disease in Jatropha curcas L. caused by Rhizoctonia. bataticola (Taub.) Butler has been recorded in causing 10-12 per cent mortality of 20-30 days old seedlings of Jatropha curcasin southern Haryana. The incidence of this disease has also been observed from other parts of Haryana too. Induction of systemic resistance in host plants through microbes and their bioactive metabolites are attaining popularity in modern agricultural practices. Studies on the plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria induced resistance in Jatropha curcas through phenyl propanoid metabolism against Rhizoctoniabataticola were undertaken at Chaudhary Charan Singh, Haryana Agricultural University, Regional Research Station, Bawal. Three plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs) viz., Pseudomonas maltophila, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis were evaluated for their potential to induce systemic resistance in Jatropha against root rot. The maximum increase of 97 per cent in total phenols, 120 per cent in peroxidase, 123 per cent in polyphenol oxidase, 101 per cent in phenylalanine ammonia lyase and 298 per cent in tyrosine ammonia lyase was detected in plants raised with Pseudomonas fluorescens+ Rhizoctoniaba-taticola inoculation in Jatropha curcas at 10 days post inoculation against control except total phenols where it was maximum (99%) at 30 DPI. There was slight or sharp decline in these parameters with age irrespective of inoculations. The pathogen challenged plants showed lower levels of total phenols and enzymes. The observations revealed that seed bacterization with Pseudomonas fluorescens results in accumulation of phenolics and battery of enzymes in response to pathogen infection and thereby induce resistance systemically.

5 tables, 18 ref

014164   Kumar K;Shankar D;Thakur A K;Kanwar R R;Singh J;Saxena R R (NO, SG CARS (I.G.K.V.), Jagdalpur, Bastar-494 005, Email: deo1975ram@gmail.com) : Effect of planting techniques and spacing on corm and cormel yield of bunda (Colocasia esculenta var. Esculenta) under Bastar plateau of Chhattisgarh, India. Pl Archs 2016, 16(2), 659-66.

Present investigation was carried out at instructional cum Research Farm, Shaheed Gundadhoor College of Agriculture and Research Station, experimental field of AICRP in Tuber Crops, Jagdalpur, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidhyalaya, Raipur (C.G.), during kharif season 2015-16. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications and two factors. First factor was planting techniques viz., A₁-trench method and A₂-ridge and furrow method and second factor was spacing e.i. B₁=90 x 30 cm, B₂-90 x 45 cm, B₃-75 x 30 cm, B₄-75 x 45 cm, B₅-60 x 30 cm and B₆-60 x 45 cm to find out the effect of different planting techniques and spacing on yield of corm and cormel yield, under Bastar Plateau of Chhattisgarh. Among various important growth characters of bunda i.e. plant height, number of leaves, plant girth and leaf size was significantly influenced under different planting method and spacing. In different crop growth stages, plant height, number of leaves, plant girth and leaf size was recorded highest in trench method than the ridge and furrow method and in case of spacing, 60 x 30 cm was observed maximum value among various growth stages than the 60 x 45 cm among all the spacing treatments. The length of corm was significantly higher in A₁ (25.17 cm) than the A₂ (9.86 cm) and in spacing treatment B₁ (31.80 cm) was recorded highest corm length. In case of corm girth, A₁ was produced significantly maximum corm girth than the A₂. Interaction between planting method x spacing was recorded non significant due to different treatment in corm girth and number of corm per plant. Trench method of planting produces significantly maximum length of cormel and weight of corm per plant than the ridge and furrow planting. The highest value of corm and cormels yield was produced in planting method i.e. trench method than the ridge and furrow method and in case of spacing, 60 x 30 cm was recorded significantly maximum corm and cormels yield of bunda during experimentation. The weight loss percentage is not significantly affect due to different treatments and also their interaction. It may - 278 - be concluded that the trench method of planting and planting spacing 60 x 30 cm was given more corm and cormel economic yield and it may be recommended to farmers of Bastar Plateau of Chhattisgarh for commercial production of Bunda.

4 tables, 19 ref

014163   Kulloli R N;Mathur M;Suresh Kumar (NO, Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur-342 003, Email: r.kulloli@gmail.com) : Dynamics of top-down factors with relation to ecological attributes of an endangered species Commiphora wightii. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(3), 1556-64.

The study was aimed to explore the influence of top down factors on ecological attributes of Commi-phora wightii collected from seven districts of arid and semi arid parts of the Rajasthan. Ecological variables in respect of 46 accessions of this species were quantified. To assess the explanatory factors governing quantified ecological variables, soil samples were collected to analyze soil texture, soil EC, pH, available potassium, available phosphorus and total soil nitrogen. Results showed that there was a specific relationship between soil variables and oc-curence of C. wightii. The mid ranges of potassium (200-300 kg/ha) emerged as favourable to have better density and health of C. wightii: This is the first report on regulatory role of potassium on distribution and occurrence of C. wightii.

6 illus, 7 tables, 32 ref

014162   Kranthi S;Satija U;Pusadkar P;Rishi Kumar; Shastri C S;Ansari S;Santoshi H B;Monga D;Kranthi K R (NO, ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Post Bag No. 2, Shankar Nagar P.O., Nagpur-440 010, Email: sandhya.kranthi@gmail.com) : Non-Bt seeds provided by seed companies in India - are they suitable as refuge for Bt-cotton?. Curr Sci 2017, 112(10), 1992-3.

1 table, 10 ref

014161   Kostylev P I;Alabushev A V;Krasnova E V; Redkin A A;Kostyleva L M (NO, All-Russian Research Institute of Grain Crops after I.G.Kalinenko, Russia Zernograd, Nauchnyi gorodok, 3, Email: Editor4@academicpapers.org) : F1 rice hybrids from crossing two subspecies: Indica and Japonica, in South Russia's climate. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(1), 209-17.

Normally, F₁ hybrids between subspecies japonica and indica demonstrate various degrees of sterility. Previous research has shown that certain types of indica do have compatibility when crossed with japonica varieties, which causes a higher fertility in F₁ hybrids. In the light of the above, we studied several indicators affecting grain crop yield in F₁ hybrids between japonica and indica. A field experiment was done to study hybrid heterosis of plant height, panicle length, the number of spikelets and well-filled grain in a panicle, spikelet fertility, length, width and weight of grains, in order to find a combination with high grain yield and investigate correlations between grain weight per panicle and certain valuable agronomic traits. Average heterosis of plant height and number of spikelets per panicle was positive. Some of the hybrids demonstrated positive heterosis of the number of well-filled grains in a panicle, of the weight of grain from one panicle, of the size and weight of grains; on the average, however, heterosis of these traits was negative. Among other crop yield components, an increase in the number of spikelets and grains per panicle contributed to an increase in the weight of grains from one panicle in hybrids. There exists significantly strong positive correlation between crop yield in one panicle and spikelet fertility and a weakly positive one - with the plant height and panicle length. A higher yield from one panicle in F₁ crosses was related to an increase in the number of spikelets in it, whereas their low fertility was a limitation on yield potential.

1 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

014160   Korishettar P;Vasudevan S N;Shakuntala N M; Doddagondar S R;Hiregoudar S;Kisan B (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Raichur-584 104, Email: kpradeep5061@gmail.com) : Influence of seed polymer coating with Zn and Fe nanoparticles on storage potential of pigeonpea seeds under ambient conditions. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(1), 186-91.

Present laboratory experiment was conducted with an objective to know the effect of seed polymer coat-ing with Zn and Fe nanoparticles (NPs) in comparison to their bulk forms on storage potential of pigeonpea seeds. Results revealed - 276 - that seed polymer coating with Zn and Fe NPs had significant effect on storability of pigeonpea seeds. Among the treatments Zn NPs at 750 ppm was found to be superior in all the studied parameters viz., seed germination (96.00, 88.67 and 81.67%), seedling length (25.67, 22.57 and 18.60 cm), seedling dry weight (85, 81.45 and 78. 45 mg), field emergence (89.67, 77.67 and 63.33%), seedling vigour index (2556, 2001 and 1519), alpha amylase and dehydrogenase enzymes activities at 0, 6 and 10 months, respectively and it was statistically on par with Zn NPs at 500 ppm and Fe NPs at 500 ppm. The nanoparticles treatment didn't affect the seed moisture content (%) and insect infestation (%), however the significant difference was observed between polymer coated and uncoated seeds. In over all, the results of the study demonstrated the possibility of application Nanotechnology in Seed Science Research.

3 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

014159   Kiran R;Hunjan M S;Singh P P (Plant Pathology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: paurajkiran@gmail.com) : Influence of nitrogen on guttation fluid and development of bacterial blight of rice. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(3), 1541-5.

Bacterial blight disease of rice is major constraint in rice cultivation. This disease is influenced by prevailing weather conditions, rice physiology and nutrition. The experiment was carried out to assess the role of nitroge-nous fertilizer on development of bacterial blight disease of rice and Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae density in guttation fluid. Disease development increased with increase in nitrogen fertilizer, among four doses of nitrogen tested (control, 36, 54,72 kg urea/acre), disease severity was maximum in the plot supplied with highest dose of nitrogen i.e. 72 kg urea/acre at both seedling (19.3%) and tillering stage (32.4%) at 30 days after inoculation. The highest population density of X. oryzae pv. oryzae (6.02 log cfu/ml) was also recovered in guttation fluid collected from X.oryzaepv. oryzae inoculated plants at tillering stage, from the plots supplied with highest dose (72 kg urea/acre) of nitrogen.Scanning electron microscopic studies also revealed intense colonization by X. oryzae pv. oryzae in rice leaves supplied with high nitrogen dose.

2 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

014158   Kingra P K;Setia R;Singh S;Jatinder Kaur; Satinder Kaur;Singh S P;Kukal S S;Pateriya B (School of Climate Change and Agricultural Meterology, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana, Email: pkkingra@pau.edu) : Climatic variability and its characterisation over Punjab, India. J Agrometeorol 2017, 19(3), 246-50.

The climate data (maximum temperature, minimum temperature and rainfall) of forty year (1974- 2013) was analysed for kharif (May to October) and rabi (November to April) seasons in Punjab, India. The non-parametric Mann-Kendall and Sen's methods were used to determine trend (positive or negative) in climate data over a period of 40 years. A decrease in rainfall and increase in temperature from northeast to south-west Punjab during both the kharif and rabi seasons was observed. No significant temporal variation was observed in maximum temperature and rainfall during both the seasons, but a significant increase in minimum temperature over the years was observed in different zones of Punjab. On an average, minimum temperature is increasing at 0.05°C per year during both the seasons.

3 table, 5 ref

014157   Khidrapure G;Vasudevan S N;Doddagoudar S R; Sreenivas A G;Rao S (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Agricultural Science (UAS) Univ, Raichur-584 104, Email: gajumk@gmail.com) : Prediction of storability of organically produced paddy seeds through natural and accelerated ageing techniques. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(3), 1638-42.

The present study was conducted to know the storage potential of organically produced paddy seeds in the Department of Seed Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur. The seed lot were divided into two parts, one part was stored in cloth bag for a period of 12 months under ambient conditions. At the same time another set of seeds were subjected to accelerated ageing at 42 + 10C temperature and 90 per cent rela-tive humidity (RH) for a period of 0-12 days. Among the ageing methods, artificially aged seeds showed drastic de-creases in seed quality as compared to natural ageing. Among the treatments T9 (37.5% FYM + 37.5% vermicom-post + 25% Neem cake + foliar spray of panchagavya on 30, 60, 90 and 120 DAT) recorded significantly highest seed quality parameters viz., seed germination (97.81%), seedling length (29.42 cm) and SVI (2878) at initial stage in both the method of aging and at the end of storage period; seed germination (71.23 and 87.33%), seedling length (19.66 and 27.00 cm) and SVI (1400 and 2358) in accelerated ageing (AA) and natural ageing (NA) respec-tively,whereas, lowest in control (Inorganic treatment). The seed quality parameters of four days of AA were similar to that of six months of NA. Hence, storability of - 275 - organically produced paddy seeds were better as compared to inor-ganic seeds and it can be predicted that four days of AA is equal to six months of NA. The information generated will be useful in retention or disposal of a particular variety or seed lot.

1 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

014156   Khandaker M M;Rohani F;Dalorima T;Mat N (School of Agriculture Science and Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioresour, Sultan Zainal Abidin Univ, Tembila Campus, 22200 Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia, Email: moneruzzaman@unisza.edu.my) : Effect of different organic fertilizers on growth, yield and quality of Capsicum annuum L. Var. Kulai (red chilli kulai). Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(1), 185-92.

This study was designed to observe the effects of different organic fertilizers on growth, yield and quality of Capsicum annuum L. var Kulai (Red Chili Kulai). The field experiment was conducted at a green house of Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Tembila Campus, Kuala Terengganu. Performance of chilli plant was assessed by application of different organic fertilizer (vermicompost (VC),chicken dung (CiD), peat moss (PM), fermented fish waste (FFW), and cow dung (CoD)). The treatments were fitted in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) design layouts. Data collected for growth, yield and quality performances included plant height, number of leaf per plant, leaf area, number of branch per plant, stomata conductance, chlorophyll content, number of flower bud per plant, number of fruit per plant, weight of fruit, length of fruit, diameter of fruit and number of seed per fruit. Based on the results obtained from this experiment, application of vermicompost and chicken dung shows highest growth, quality and yield performance. Control treatment (without organic fertilizer) showed the lowest growth, yield and quality response.

12 illus, 21 ref

014155   Khan M;Hasija R C;Aneja D R;Sharma M K (Mathematics Dep, Statistics and Physics, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural Un, Hisar-125 004, Email: mkhanstat@gmail.com) : Uniformity trial on Indian mustard for determination of optimum size and shape of blocks. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(3), 1589-93.

The aim of this study was to estimate the optimum block size with the shape for field research experi-ments. A uniform crop of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) variety RH-749 was raised during 2013-14 rabi season over an area of 48m x 48m (2304 basic units) at Research Farm of Oilseed section, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCSHAU, Hisar, Haryana, India. The harvesting of crop was done in small units each of size lm x lm (1m²). The blocks of sizes 4, 6, 8, 12 and 24 plots with various shapes, for different plot sizes were considered. The coefficient of variation (CV) decreased from 10.66 to 3.89 with the increase in block size from 4 to 24, indicat-ing that as the block size increased, homogeneity within the block also increases and the blocks elongated in E-W direction were more effective in reducing error variation than those elongated in N-S direction. It was also observed that C.V. without blocking (20.04) was much higher in comparison with the C.V. with blocking (3.89), thus indicating that blocking was beneficial in reducing error variation. The 24 plot - 274 - blocks were found to be most efficient with 12m x 2m block shape. Rectangular blocks are also advisable either when the experimenter does not have any idea about the fertility pattern of the experimental area or when border effects are large.

4 tables, 12 ref

014154   Khadakabhavi S;Girish G;Yashoda (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Raichur-584 104, Email: santoshssk04@gmail.com) : Character association and path analysis studies in germplasm lines of rabi sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench). J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(1), 206-10.

The field experiment was carried out using 121 germplasm lines of rabi sorghum to study association among the yield and its component traits, direct and indirect effects of traits on the yield. Association studies indicat-ed that at both genotypic and phenotypic levels, panicle width (rg=0.190; rp=0.204) and 1000 grain weight (rg=0.450; rp=0.520) showed significantly positive correlation with grain yield per plant. Genotypic correlation magnitude was higher than phenotypic correlation. Partitioning of yield and yield components both at phenotypic and genotypic levels into direct and indirect effects revealed that the characters that had positive direct effects on grain yield were 1000 grain weight (Ppi=+0.3085, Pgi=+0.4621), panicle length (Ppi=+0.1516, Pgi=+0.2843), days to maturity (Ppi=+0.1539, Pgi=+0.1391) at both genotypic and phenotypic level. On grain yield indicating importance of these characters hence, due consideration should be given to these characters while planning a breeding strategy by utilizing rabi sorghum.

4 tables, 19 ref

014153   Keshri A;Roy D;Vinod Kumar;Muneendra Kumar; Kushwaha R;Vaswani S (Animal Nutrition Dep, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, DUVASU, Mathura-281 001, Email: debashis2k4@gmail.com) : Effect of different sources of organic chromium on in vitro rumen fermentation pattern. Indian J Dairy Sci 2017, 70(2), 241-3.

The study was conducted to examine the effect of different sources of organic chromium on rumen fermentation pattern in vitro using roughage based diet. Chromium picolinate, chromium polynicotinate and chromium yeast were tested at concentration of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 ppm - 273 - chromium using in vitro gas production technique in wheat straw based diet. Different in vitro parameters e.g. total gas production; ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD), microbial protein and partitioning factor were studied using buffalo rumen liquor. It was found all the in vitro parameters were remained similar in all the treatment groups. At 1 ppm dose level, chromium picolinate, chromium polynicotinate and chromium yeast had shown better (P<62>0.05) OM degradability, microbial biomass production and partitioning factor than other dose levels. It was concluded that supplementation of Cr upto 2.5 ppm from different organic sources did not adversely affect in vitro rumen fermentation parameters.

4 tables, 20 ref

014152   Keerthi P;Singh R;Dhaka A K;Divesh C (Agronomy Dep, College of Agriculture, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: sharmakittu26@gmail.com) : Growth and yield prediction of Indian mustard using InfoCrop model at Hisar, Haryana. J Agrometeorol 2017, 19(3), 259-61.

The InfoCrop v.2.0, model was calibrated and validated with the field experimental data having four dates of sowing (Oct 15th & 25th and Nov 5th& 15th) and five nitrogen levels (0, 40, 60, 80 and 100 kg N ha-1) conducted during 2013-15 at Hisar (29°10E N and 75°46E E). The model performance was evaluated using RMSE, MAE and MBE and it was observed that InfoCrop model could predict the growth parameters leaf area index, nitrogen uptake, biomass and seed yield with reasonably good accuracy.

4 illus, 1 table, 4 ref

014151   Kaul A;Deol J S;Brar A S (Agronomy Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: amitkaul@pau.edu) : Response of different Bt cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) hybrids to canopy modification practices. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(3), 1188-97.

A field investigation was carried out to characterize the growth and development of Bt cotton hybrids by detopping and use of plant growth retardants during the rainy (kharif) season of 2011 and 2012. The experimental site had loamy sand soils with normal in reaction. The experiment (split plot) involved three Bt cotton hybrids (MRC 7017, MRC 7031 and RCH 314) in main plots and growth regulation treatments (Mepiquat chloride (MC) @ 300 ppm, 2, 3, 5-tri iodo benzoic acid (TIBA) @ 100 ppm and Maelic hydrazide (MH) @ 250 ppm) in sub plots with four replications. Hybrid MRC 7017 produced significantly higher (p<60>0.01) seed cotton yield which was attributed to the maximum number of sympodial branches plant^-1, total number of flowers and picked bolls plant^-1. Application of MC @ 300 ppm, TIBA @ 100 ppm and MH @ 250 ppm reduced plant height, leaf area index and total dry matter accu-mulation than control. Detopping treatment significantly (p<60>0.01) reduced plant height than control but attained more plant height than all the PGRs. MC @ 300 ppm, TIBA @ 100 ppm and MH @ 250 ppm at 80 days after sowing had beneficial effect on seed cotton yield. Detopping done at 80 days after sowing failed to influence the seed cotton yield dur-ing both the years. The results revealed that foliar application of MC @ 300 ppm yielded more seed cotton by improv-ing the setting percentage and therefore, increased number of picked (open) bolls plant^-1 without exhibiting any ad-verse effect on quality traits.

2 illus, 4 tables, 43 ref

014150   Kashyap A K;Lal Bahadur;Tewari S K (NO, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow-232 102, Email: lbyadav_2007@gmail.com) : Integrated nutrient management in oat (Avena sativa L.) under reclaimed sodic soil. Indian J agric Res 2017, 51(1), 78-81.

Oat (Avena sativa L.) is used as a green fodder, straw, hay or silage. A field experiment was carried out during 2008-2009 with the concept of integrated nutrient management at Aurawan Research Centre of CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow. The treatments of the experiments were T₁ - Control, T₂ - NPK (80:40:40 kg ha^-1), T₃ - 1/2 NPK (40:20:20 kg ha^-1) + FYM (10 t ha^-1), T₄ - 1/2 NPK + FYM (10 t ha^-1) + Trichoderma, T₅ - 1/2 (NPK + FYM (10 t ha^-1) + PSB and T₆ - 1/2 NPK + FYM (10 t ha^-1) + Trichoderma + PSB with 4 replications in randomized block design (RBD). Results indicated that all the treatment showed significant response over control. Maximum plant height at 120 days (157.7 cm), tillersplant^-1 at 90 days (6.4), length of spike (38.7 cm), test weight (28.6 g), grain yield (34.9 q ha^-1), straw yield (82.8 q ha^-1) were recorded with T₂ - NPK (80:40:40 kg ha^-1) which was significantly higher than all the treatments except T₃ - 1/2 NPK (40:20:20 kg ha^-1) + FYM (10 t ha^-1) and T₄ - 1/2 NPK + FYM (10 t ha^-1) + Trichoderma, followed by treatment T₆ - 1/2 NPK + FYM (10 t ha^-1) + Trichoderma + PSB showing the value of plant height at 120 days (154.8 cm), tillers/plant at 90 days (6.3), length of spike (37.6 cm), test weight (28.3 g), grain yield (33.1 q ha^-1) and straw yield (81.1 q ha^-1). Seed treatment with PSB (T₅) also responded significantly over control in all the parameters and remained at par with T₂ and T₆. However, combined seed treatment with PSB + Trichoderma (T₆) was much - 272 - effective in comparison to single inoculation of Trichoderma or PSB.

3 tables, 8 ref

014149   Kanwar R;Mehta D K (Seed Science & Technology Dep, College of Horticulture, Dr YS Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestr, Nauni, Solan-173 230, Email: intangiblekanwar07@gmail.com) : Studies on solid matrix priming of seeds in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.). J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(1), 395-401.

A study was carried out to evaluate the effect of solid matrix priming of seeds - 271 - on emergence (%), growth and fruit yield characters of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) cultivar 'Solan Hara'. The Experiment comprised of two vigour groups of seeds viz., 'V₁' (High vigour seeds) and 'V₂' (72 hours accelerated aged seeds/low vigour seeds) and five seed priming treatments viz., 'P₁' (Solid matrix priming with Cocopeat), 'P₂' (Solid matrix priming with Perlite), 'P₃' (Solid matrix priming with Vermiculite), 'P₄' (Seed soaking in water), 'P₅' (Control-Without treatment). Investigation proved that low vigour seeds were inferior in respect of high vigour seeds in terms of seed physiological quality, emergence, growth and yield characteristics. Seed priming with Perlite for 72 hours proved its potential over other priming treatments, seed soaking and control (non-primed seeds) in both high vigour and low vigour seeds for agronomic attributes under study. High vigour seeds primed with Perlite 'V₁P₂' was found to be the best treatment for most of the traits understudy recording highest total field emergence (76.60%), fruit yield per plot (16.12 Kg) and per hectare (250.35 q). Similarly, Low vigour seeds primed with Perlite also recorded enhanced and improved total field emergence (73.83%) fruit yield per plot (9.28 Kg) and per hectare (143.26 q) compared to other low vigour treated and non treated seeds. From the present investigation it was inferred that that the extent of improvement w.r.t. attributes studied was more in low vigour seeds (V₂) and seed priming with solid matrix carrier 'Perlite' can be used as a beneficial pre-sowing treatment to enhance the seedling emergence, growth and yield characteristics in bitter gourd.

3 tables, 20 ref

014148   Kandhol R;Sharma V;Arora S;Rao P S;Singh R; Gupta H (Dairy Chemistry Div, National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Karnal-132 001, Email: vishk12000@yahoo.com) : Efficiency of physico- chemical constants vis-a vis reversed-phase thin layer chromatography in evaluating the quality of fat in market samples of paneer. Indian J Dairy Sci 2017, 70(2), 215-20.

Paneer is a coagulated milk product obtained by heating and acidulation, followed by filtration and pressing. Milk fat is one of the costliest components in paneer, which attracts unscrupulous people in the trade of paneer to add vegetable oil/fat emulsion to skimmed milk and prepare paneer. Generally recommended tests to check the quality of milk fat do not help much in assuring the quality of paneer fat. Recent study revealed that by employing RP- TLC approach the minimum 5% level of adulteration of milk fat in paneer could be detected The analysis of market samples of paneer from organized sector revealed that all the samples from organized sector met the physicochemical paramters of milk fat as specified by FSSR (2011). On the contrary, in case of unorganized sector 18.75%, 6.25% and 31.25% samples failed on the basis of RM value, Polenske value and BR reading, respectively. On employing RP-TLC analysis, paneer fat samples i.e. <126>43.75% from unorganized sector and 28.57% from organised sector showed presence of vegetable oil/fat. In the present investigation it was found that market samples of paneer both form organised and unorganised sector had some problem of fat adulteration which otherwise went unchecked in organised paneer samples, using conventional methods of testing.

3 illus, 4 tables, 16 ref

014147   Kandari A M;Hidrawati;Rianse U;Muhidin; Iswandi M;Arafah N (Environmental Science Dep, Faculty of Forestry and Environmental Science, Halu Oleo Univ, Kendri, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, Email: manekandaria@yahoo.com) : Local wisdom as adaptation strategy in suboptimal land management at Binongko island, - 270 - Wakatobi Indonesia. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(1), 129-36.

Agricultural land on the Binongko Island has categories as dry land on the dry climates. Characteristics of land dominated by rocky ground with low fertility and irrigation systems depend on the rainfall. The main problem of agriculture system is low productivity. The effort to improve land productivity is directed towards to the application of local wisdom that has economic, social, cultural and ecological advantageous. The aim of the research was to explore the local knowledge in agricultural systems. The results showed that Binongko Island communities have local wisdom in the farming system, which applies from land clearing, planting, maintain, harvesting and post-harvest. In the land-clearing phase, there is local wisdom bhelai'a, which is a form of respect to natural ruler and petition to obtain abundant harvests. In the phase of planting, there are mixed farming systems as local wisdom and adaptation strategy to sub-optimal soil conditions. Furthermore, the maintenance phase there are local wisdoms that appears in honowu action, plant pests and diseases preventive action. Similarly, in the stage of harvest and post-harvest with religious rituals as an expression of gratitude to the grace of God Almighty.

1 illus, 40 ref

014146   Kamboj G;Pradeep Kumar;Singh D (NO, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut-250 110, Email: pradeeptaliyan231@gmail.com) : Estimates of combining ability and standard heterosis for grain yield and various agromorphological traits in rice (Oryza sativa L.). J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(1), 526-32.

A study was conducted for estimating combining ability and standard heterosis for grain yield and various agromorphological traits involving 10 parents and their 45 F1s (half diallel) during 2012-13 and 2013-14. The results of present investigation revealed that additive gene action played a predominant role in the inheritance of most of the traits under study. On the basis of general combining ability (GCA) effects and specific combining ability (SCA) effects, three parents (Vallabh Basmati 21, Pusa Basmati 1, CSR 13) and three crosses (Vallabh Basmati 21 x Pusa 1121, Pusa 1121 x CSR 13 and Pusa Basmati 1 x CSR 13) were found good general and specific combiners. The best combinations mostly involved good x good and good x poor parental GCA effects suggesting that there is addi-tive x additive and additive x dominance type of gene action for yield and other component traits. The cross showing additive gene action can be improved by pedigree breeding and selection can be postponed to later generations. The most appropriate breeding method for the exploitation of non additive gene action will be heterosis breeding. The six best cross combinations (Vallabh Basmati 21 x CSR 30, CSR 30 x CSR 13, Vallabh Basmati 21 x CSR 13, CSR 30 x Pusa basmati 1, Pusa basmati 1 x CSR 13 and Vallabh Basmati 21 x Pusa basmati 1) had significant standard heterosis for grain yield and other component traits. The crosses which showed significant standard heter-osis is highly suitable for commercial exploitation of heterosis in rice crop.

4 tables, 14 ref

014145   Kalyani K;Sailaja V;Rao P C (Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Agricultural College, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar-500 030, Email: kalyani.ssac09@gmail.com) : Relationship of inorganic potassium fractions to yield of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. Botrytis) and soil properties of light textured soils of Rangareddy district. Indian J agric Res 2017, 51(1), 59-63.

Exploring the relationship among inorganic potassium fractions, yield and soil properties were important to know the best extractant for available K for cauliflower in the light textured soils of Rangareddy district. Surface soils in bulk were collected from thirty locations of Rangareddy district and pot culture experiment was carried out. Inorganic K fractions were analysed to evaluate the relative efficiency of extractants in determing the available K. Here, we have investigated the relationships among the soil properties, between soil properties and K uptake, between soil properties and yield, between K fractions and K uptake, between K fractions and yield. Organic carbon (r=0.65**), available nitrogen (r=0.60**) exhibited a significant positive correlation with NH₄OAc (1N) extractable K. Available potassium extracted by NH₄OAc showed a significant positive correlation with NaBPh₄ (0.2 M) extractable K (r=0.93**), 1M HNO₃ 9r=0.55**) and also with citric acid extractable K (r=0.67**). Among all the extractants 1N NH₄OAc extractable K showed higher positive correlation with curd yield (r=0.975**). It had a significant positive correlation with NaBPh₄ (0.2 M) extractable K (r=0.926**).

5 tables, 11 ref

014144   Kale R B;Ponnusamy K;Mohammad A;Jha S K; Chandel B S;Chakravarty A K (Rajiv Baliram Kale, Agricultural Extension, ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Email: krajivndri@gmail.com) : Differential dairy development status in India: a perception analysis. Indian J Dairy Sci 2017, 70(3), 371-7.

The study analysed factors responsible for differential status of dairy farming in India as perceived by stakeholders. Study was conducted in purposively selected three states namely Haryana, Maharashtra and Odisha from highly, moderately and least dairy progressive states by stratified random sampling, respectively. From each selected state, three districts based on milk yield, one block from each district and two villages from each block were randomly selected. From each village 50 dairy farmers and 10 other stakeholders were selected from each block for the study. Thus, total sample size was 990 from 18 villages which include 900 farmers and 90 other stakeholders. Data were collected from the respondents using pretested structured interview schedule. The major perceived factors responsible for limiting the growth of dairying in Maharashtra and Odisha were migration of rural population to cities, small scale of production, limited doorstep services by Government extension agents, poor veterinary institutional facilities, low quality of semen availability, unavailability of green fodder round the year, poor genetic potential of the milch animal, unavailability of irrigation sources. Proper planning and thrust to address the issues through development of organized marketing network, improvement in fodder, pasture and irrigation resources, development of fodder banks in scarcity zone, quality improvement through cross breeding or selective breeding would improve the genetic potential of dairy animals. Conservation and spread of elite indigenous dairy animals such as Sahiwal, Gir and Tharparkar etc. will help to reduce the regional imbalance and to attain equitable growth of dairy sector to attain future demand of milk.

13 tables, 11 ref

014143   Kalasare R S;Patel M V;Patel H K;Kadu S P; Patel A P;Umale A A (Agronomy Dep, B.A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand-388 110, Email: rskalasare@gmail.com) : Role of INM on growth, yield, quality parameters and content of rabi fennel (F. vulgare mill.) in middle Gujarat condition. Green Fmg 2016, 7(5), 1091-5.

A field experiment was conducted at Agronomy Farm, Department of Agronomy, B.A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat during rabi 2012 and 2013 to study the integrated nutrient management (INM) on rabi fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) in Middle Gujarat condition. An experimental results revealed that application of 100% RDN (Recommended Dose of Nitrogen) with Azospirillum + PSB + vermicompost @ 2 t ha^-1 recorded significantly higher plant height at 60 DAS (41.80 cm), 90 DAS (109.20 cm), at harvest (148.00 cm), number of umbels plant^-1 (20.57), number of umbellates umbel-1 (23.16), number of seeds umbel-1 (173.69), seed (2719 kg - 268 - ha^-1) and stover (3084 kg ha^-1) yields as well as significantly the highest number of branches plant^-1 (9.60) as compared to rest of the treatments. Hence, it can be concluded that the application of 100% RDN with Azospirillum + PSB + vermicompost @ 2 t ha^-1 would be useful to enhance the productivity of rabi fennel. The integrated use of fertilizers may be suggested for higher productivity along with overall betterment. Application of 100% RDN + Azospirillum + PSB + vermicompost @ 2 t ha^-1 recorded significantly higher test weight (10.95%), oil content (1.97%), phosphorus (0.30%) and potassium content (0.50%) from seed as well as same treatment recorded significantly higher nitrogen content (0.92%), phosphorus content (0.29%) and potassium content (0.54%) from stover and treatment T11 recorded significantly higher nitrogen content (1.57%) from seed. Application of 50% RDN + Two spray of vermiwash @ 50 lit ha^-1 at 45 and 75 DAS was recorded significantly the highest fiber content (19.20%) compared to another INM treatments.

5 tables, 16 ref

014142   Kakati B K;Muzaddadi A U;Goswami U C (Fishery Engineering & Technology Dep, College of Fisheries, Assam Agricultural Univ, Raha, Nagaon-782 103, Email: bkkakati@gmail.com) : Preparation, acceptability and quality evaluation of fermented fish product Mowa shidal prepared from the Mola carplet (Amblypharyngodon mola, Hamilton, 1822). J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(3), 1534-40.

Mowa shidal was prepared from sundried Amblypharyngodon mola by the traditional fermentation process at ambient temperature, maintaining all possible hygienic conditions. Biochemical, microbiological and sensory qualities at the different stages of fermentation of Mowa shidal was monitored. The product was perfectly matured after 120 days of fermentation showing the characteristic shidal smell and a moist and sticky surface. The fermentation process did not show any significant effect (P<62>0.05) on the proximate composition. The product had a high nutritional quality. The protein and ash content of the sample were recorded to be 31.28-31.70% and 9.95-11.11%, respectively and pH showed 5.8-6.5 in 180 days of fermentation. The physicochemical analysis revealed that the fer-mented product was of acceptable quality. The TPC of Mowa shidal was 5.86 log cfu/g in the first month of fermentation and it reached 4.82 log cfu/g after 120 days. The counts gradually decreased with the increasing duration of fermentation. Most of the isolate was found to be Staphylococcus aureus. After the second month of fermentation S. aureus reached 54% of total count and might play an important role in the fermentation process. Pathogenic bacteria like Salmonella spp. and E. coli were absent, which indicate good sanitary practice during processing. Thus, the good quality shidal can be produced from A. mola with a high nutritional quality and consumer acceptability.

1 illus, 5 tables, 35 ref

014141   Kakati B K;Goswami U C (Fishery Engineering and Technology Dep, College of Fisheries, Assam Agricultural Univ, Raha, Nagaon-782 103, Email: bkkakati@gmail.com) : Nutritional, microbial and sensory quality evaluation of fermented Setipinna phasa, Hamilton 1822, (Phassya shidal), marketed in North-east India. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(1), 237-44.

Fermented Setipinnaphasa (Phassya Shidal) is a traditional fish product, popular in the north eastern states of India, because of its typical flavor and aroma. The proximate composition, biochemical, microbiological and sensory qualities of Phassya Shidal available in markets were studied. The results of the analysis showed that the market samples of Phassya Shidal were a good source of protein (27.20%). The pH and moisture content were 6.2 and 37.52%, respectively. Both Phassya Shidal and fresh Setipinnaphasa (raw material) were rich in lysine, leucine, valine, aspartic acid, alanine and glutamic acid. The effect of fermentation on the amino acids content of the sample was not significant except in histidine (p<60>0.05). An increase in the contents of fatty acids and amino acids composi-tion was observed in the Phassya Shidal during fermentation. Significant variations (p<60>0.05) in the proportions of some unsaturated fatty acids were noticed between product and fresh fish. The major saturated fatty acids were C16:0 and C18:0. The Oleic acid was the prominent monounsaturated - 267 - fatty acid. The dominant polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) were of the n-3 series. The major PUFA found chiefly in linoleic acid and linolenic acid in both the samples. The physicochemical analysis revealed that the product was of acceptable quality. The bacterial flora of Phaasya Shidal comprised of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp. and Escherichia coli indicating unhygienic handling practices during preparation and storage. Though the product had acceptable sensory quality, strict hygienic measures should be adopted during processing to safeguard the health of the consumers.

2 illus, 5 tables, 51 ref

014140   Kahar B;Konar A;Mondal P (Plant Protection Dep, Visva-Bharati University, P.O. Santinikeran and Faculty of Panchakot Mahavidyalaya, Purulia-723 121, Email: biplab.kahar1984@gmail.com ) : Assessment and evaluation of different treatment schedules against plant and tuber damage caused by soil pests on potato. Indian J agric Res 2017, 51(1), 44-8.

Bio-efficacy of various treatment schedules, viz T₁ (phorate + chlorpyriphos + imidacloprid + cartap hydrochloride), T₂ (imidacloprid + acephate + chlorpyriphos + cypermethrin), T₃ (phorate + chlorpyriphos + azadirachtin + Bacillus thuringiensis var. Kurstaki), T₄ (Bacillus thuringiensis var. Kurstaki + azadirachtin), T₅ (phorate + imidacloprid + chlorpyriphos + cypermethrin), T₆ (phorate + azadirachtin + Bacillus thuringiensis var. Kurstaki) and T₇ (control) were evaluated against Agrotis ipsilon (Hufner) and mole cricket, Gryllotalpa africana, P.de. Beau. in single potato variety, Kufi Chandramukhi during rabi season of two potato-growing years in 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 from November to February. The percentage of plant (shoot) damage was found low in T₁ (5.82 - 5.87%), than by T₃ (6.12 - 6.49%), T₂ (6.86 - 6.92%), T<>5 (7.31 - 7.62%), T₆ (8.21 - 8.81%), T₄ (8.61 - 9.32%) and T₇ (10.70 - 11.13%) respectively. Similarly percentage of tuber damage of potato was noted highest in T₇ (34.29 - 43.90%) and it was lowest in T₂ (13.15 - 15.66%). Maximum marketable yield (t/ha) of potato tubers was obtained in T₂ (26.28-26.80 t/ha), which was succeded by T₁ (26.19 - 26.92 t/ha) than other treatments and it was recorded minimum in control T₇ (11.17-12.69 t/ha). Maximum cost-benefit ratio (CBR) was recorded in T₅ (1:2.03 - 1:2.04) while it was found minimum in T₆ (1:11.11 - 1:1.17). Among the different treatment schedules T₅ and T₂ were most effective in increasing marketable yield of potato tubers and reduction of soil pest incidence over control T₂ and also over other treatments.

3 tables, 16 ref

014139   Kabululu M S;Ndunguru J;Ndakidemi P;Feissa T (Sustainable Agricluture Dep, Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 447, Arusha, Tanzania, Email: patrick.ndakidemi@nm-aist.ac.tz) : Genetic diversity of maize accessions for maize lethal necrosis disease resistance. Indian J agric Res 2017, 51(1), 17-24.

Maize is among the most preferred crop in Tanzania and other parts of the world. However, its production has been facing a number of challenges. Maize Lethal Necrosis Disease (MLND) is new challenge in Eastern Africa. The control of MLND is said to be complicated as it is caused by a combination of more than one virus viz. Maize Chlorotic Mottle Virus (MCMV) and Sugarcane Mosaic Virus (SCMV). Stakeholders agree that the priority is to identify MLND resistant maize varieties. Genetic diversity provides the source of traits required against maize production challenges such as MLND. The study of genetic diversity in maize accessions often involves characterizing morphological plant characteristics as well as molecular marker techniques to study variation at DNA level. This review explores different literatures that address the importance of genetic diversity and the possibility of generating information towards obtaining potential materials against maize challenges and MLND in particular.

1 table, 79 ref

014138   Jyoti S;Patel N B;Patel J B (Seed Science and Technology Dep, College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh-362 001, Email: sondarvajyoti6568@gmail.com) : Effect of growth regulators and stages of spray on seed yield and seed quality parameters of ridge gourd [Luffa acutangula (Roxb) L.]. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(3), 1551-5.

The experiment was undertaken to study the influence of different growth regulators on seed yield and seed quality parameters in ridge gourd [Luffa acutangula (Roxb) L.]. There were 30 treatment combinations comprising of two factors; plant growth stage as main plot treatment, and plant growth regulators as sub plot treatment em-bedded in a split plot design. The results indicated that significantly the highest average fruit weight (32.76 g), matured fruit yield per plant (65.84 g), 100 seed weight (13.41 g) and seed yield per plant (12.79 g) was recorded with spraying of 500 ppm ethereal, whereas significantly the maximum fruit length (20.89 cm) and fruit diameter (5.15 cm) with 25 ppm GA3. Significantly the highest seed germination (69.22%) was recorded with spraying of 250 ppm ethereal, while application of NAA at 50 ppm recorded significantly the highest vigour index I (2737.85) and vigour index II (5029.33). Spraying of PGR at two to four leaf stage recorded the higher fruit length (20.19 cm), fruit yield per plant (47.49 g), 100 seed weight (13.18 g) and seed yield per plant (11.98 g) as well as highest germination (60.90%), vigour index I (2460.80) and vigour index II (4377.66). It is concluded that spraying of 500 ppm etherel at two to four leaf stage increased the higher fruit length, fruit yield per plant, 100 seed weight and seed yield per plant as well as highest germination, vigour index I and vigour index II.

1 table, 19 ref

014137   Jyothilakshmi N;Vanaha M;Yadav S K;Maheswari M;Archana G;Patil A;Rao C S (NO, Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Santhoshnagar, Hyderabad, Email: lakshmi.jyothi70@gmail.com) : Effect of Co₂ on growth, seed yield and nitrogen uptake in sunflower. J Agrometeorol 2017, 19(3), 195-9.

Sunflower Hybrid (KBSH-1) was cultivated in Open Top Chambers (OTCs) at ambient (380 ppm) and elevated CO₂ (550 and 700 ppm) conditions. Biomass accumulation in root, stem, head and seed was significantly greater at elevated CO₂ (550 ppm and 700 ppm) compared with ambient (380 ppm).The improvement in total biomass with 550 and 700 ppm CO₂ was 18.7 per cent and 40.5 percent and seed yield was 21.0 per cent and 45.9 per cent respectively compared to ambient. The positive growth response to increased atmospheric CO₂ resulted in N and C concentrations. Although elevated CO₂ levels tended to lower N concentration in some plant parts compared to ambient, elevated CO₂ enhanced total N accumulation in each plant component via an increase in biomass.Elevated CO₂ decreased the N per cent compared to ambient in seed meal, leaf and stem. At the recommended dose of nutrients, the total N uptake was high in plants grown at 700 ppm (1.25 g per plant), followed by 550 ppm (1.11g per plant) and ambient (0.96 11 g per plant). At the recommended dose of nutrients, physiological N use efficiency (PE) and grain N use efficiency (NUEg) was also high in plants grown at elevated CO₂ in OTCs and nitrogen harvest index (NHI) was similar for ambient (70.3%) and elevated CO₂ conditions (70.4 and 70.2 per cent at 550 ppm and 700 ppm).The total carbon accumulation was high in plants grown at 700 ppm, followed by 550 ppm and ambient.The C/N - 265 - ratio of plants was high at elevated CO₂ conditions being 21.2, 20.0 and 19.0 at 700, 550 ppm and ambient control respectively.

2 illus, 2 table, 13 ref

014136   Javed S;Vijaya Lakshmi K;Reddy C N;Sagar B V; Shanthi M (Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricult, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030, Email: skjaved789@gmail.com) : Study of seasonal incidence and impact of abiotic factors on sucking pests of brinjal. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(1), 51-4.

The present investigation was undertaken to find the impact of abiotic factors on seasonal incidence and sucking pest complex of brinjal under field conditions during kharif 2015-2016. The incidence of leaf hopper population (2.80 Lh/L i.e., Leaf hopper mean population/leaf) was noticed during 34th standard week and reached peak by 40th standard week (5.00 Lh/L) (October) whereas the aphid population was noticed during the 34th standard week (3.00 Lh/L) and peak population observed during the 40th standard week (4.60 Lh/L) (October). Correlation studies showed that among the various abiotic factors, maximum temperature showed highly significant positive correlation (r= 0.77) and sunshine hours (r = 0.61) showed significant positive correlation with the leaf hopper population. In case of aphid population, maximum temperature showed significant positive correlation (r = 0.70), rainfall showed highly significant negative correlation (r = -0.74) and relative humidity evening (r = -0.59) showed significant negative correlation with aphid population. The present investigations will give a brief idea about how the abiotic factors influencing the sucking pests of brinjal.

4 illus, 3 tables, 8 ref

014135   Jat B L;Dahiya K K;Lal R;Niwas R (Entomology Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: bljat.hau@gmail.com) : Effect of weather parameters on seasonal incidence of pod borer complex in pigeonpea. J Agrometeorol 2017, 19(3), 255-8.

Field experiments were conducted at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during kharif season of 2013 and 2014 to determine the effect of weather parameters on the incidence of pod borer complex on early maturing pigeonpea varieties. The study revealed that the infestation of Helicoverpa armigera and Maruca vitrata started with the onset of bud initiation and reached its peak at flowering stage. The maximum H. armigera larval population (1.83 larvae plant^-1) was recorded in 1st week of July sown crop, whereas, the maximum incidence of M. vitrata (21.17 webs plant^-1) was recorded in 2nd week of July sown crop. The larval population of H. armigera was significantly and positively correlated with the maximum temperature, followed by minimum temperature.Incidence of M. vitrata was negatively correlated - 264 - with evening relative humidity and wind speed which was significant at p ≤ 0.05 level of significance.

1 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

014134   Jan R;Ram T;Akhter S;Saxena A;Jan R (Agronomy Dep, S.K. Univ of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar-190 001, Email: rukhsanamalik75@gmail.com) : Agronomic practices influencing yield attributes of transplanted rice under temperate conditions. Green Fmg 2016, 7(5), 1101-5.

The experiment was conducted at Agronomy Research Farm of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir during kharif season 2012 to study the effect of water regimes, plant densities and butachlor on the performance of transplanted rice (Oryza sativa L.) under temperate conditions. The experiment was laid out in split plot design assigning combination of water regimes, plant densities and weed management practices with three replications. The yield attributes viz., panicle length, panicle weight, spikelets panicle^-1 and grains panicle^-1 were significantly higher under 44 hills m^-2 plant density, 5 cm and 10 cm water regime. As far as weed management practices are concerned, Butachlor (apart from weed free) caused significant improvement in crop growth and yield attributing characters. Leaf area index (LAI) was significantly higher for 55 hills m^-2 plant density, 5 cm and 10 cm water level and Butachlor weed control treatment. The NPK uptake by weeds was significantly lower at 44 hills m^-2 plant density, 15 cm water regime and Butachlor weed control (other than weed free). However, 15 cm water regime also enhanced NPK uptake by crop plants also.

5 tables, 22 ref

014133   Jagdish Kumar;Asrey R;Misra M K;Sajeev Kumar; Hari Ram;Babu R;Ram Pyare;Arya K C;Shrivastava S K;Rakash H G (Cotton Section, C.S.A University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur-208 002, Email: jagdishk64@yahoo.com) : Effect of different varieties and nutrient doses on growth and yield attributes and cotton yield in Hirsutum cotton. Pl Archs 2016, 16(2), 963-5.

Field experiment was conducted during kharif 2012 and 2014 at oil seed farm, Kalyanpur, Kanpur to study the effect of - 263 - different genotypes and nutrient doses on growth and yield attributes and yield in hirsutum cotton. Data revealed that all the growth and yield attributing characters viz. plant height, no of bolls/plant and boll wt improved significantly with different genotypes. Highest seed cotton yield (985 kg/ha) was recorded with Rs 2013 than Vikas (899 kg/ha) and Rs 810 (922 kg/ha). The increase in seed cotton yield with Rs 2013 was to the tone of 9.56 and 6.83 per cent than Vikas and Rs 810, respectively. Application of 125% RDF improved significantly yield of cotton than 100% RDF. Significantly higher seed cotton yield (955 kg/ha), lint yield (320 kg/ha) and seed yield (632 kg/ha) were recorded ith 125<27> RDF than 100% RDF and at par with 150% RDF. The increase in yield of cotton with 125% RDF was to the tone of 8.17%, 7.74% and 8.77% than application of 100% RDF.

1 table, 6 ref

014132   Jagadish;Thimmegowda M N;Sathish A;Mallappa (Agronomy Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, GKVK, Bengaluru-560 065, Email: jmhayakwad@gmail.com) : Nutrient uptake and nutrient use efficiency of aerobic rice under drip irrigated weed management practices. Green Fmg 2016, 7(5), 1130-3.

A field experiment was conducted during summer-2014 at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru, for studies on weed management approaches for tickle irrigated aerobic rice on red sandy loam soil. The experiment consisted of ten treatments laid in Randomized complete block design with three replications comprising of weed free check, weedy check, hand weeding, hand hoeing and their combinations, pre- and post-emergent application of herbicides through manual and trickle irrigation. Nutrient uptake (N, P₂O₅ and K₂O) by crop washigher in herbigation of pre-emergent pretilachlor + bensulfuran methyl and post-emergent bispyribac sodium at 20 DAS (98.85, 24.20 and 84.89 kg ha^-1, respectively) after weed free check (100.38, 24.70 and 85.87 kg ha^-1, respectively) it was on par with hand hoeing at 15, 30 and 45 DAS (92.06, 22.69 and 81.96 kg ha^-1, respectively) whereas uptake was lower in weedy check (36.80, 8.63 and 29.76 kg ha^-1, respectively). The nutrient uptake by weeds was in reverse trend.

2 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

014131   Jagadish;Thimmegowda M N;Nagaraju; Ramachandrappa B K (Agronomy Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, GKVK, Bengaluru-560 065, Email: jmgayakwad@gmail.com) : Comparative efficacy of different weed management practices on growth and yield of trickle irrigated aerboic rice. Green Fmg 2016, 7(5), 1152-5.

A field experiment was conducted during summer-2014 at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru for studies on weed management approaches for trickle irrigated aerobic rice on red sandy loam soil. The experiment consisted of ten treatments laid in Randomized complete block design with three replications comprising of weed free check, weedy check, hand weeding, hand hoeing and their combinations, pre and post-emergent application of herbicides through manual and trickle irrigation. Herbigation of pre-emergent pretilachlor + bensulfuran methyl and post-emergent bispyribac sodium at 20 DAS recorded higher grain yield (9892 kg ha^-1) after weed free check (10615 kg ha^-1), it was on par with hand hoeing at 15, 30 and 45 DAS (8308 kg ha^-1) and herbigation of pre-emergent pretilachlor + bensulfuran methyl (8194 kg ha^-1) compared and significantly superior over to weedy check (1101 kg ha^-1).

4 tables, 10 ref

014130   Ikbal;Jangra M R;Sarim K M;Sikka V K (Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: iqbalshah5330@gmail.com) : Development of promiscous rhizobia for diverse rabi legumes (Chickpea, pea and lentil). J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(1), 215-21.

Conjugation between microsymbiont was used to create genetic variations in rhizobia for diverse rabi legumes (chickpea, pea and lentil) with better characteristics in nodulation and nitrogen fixation process. Ten antibiotics were used as selectable markers for the screening of twenty four bacterial strains to be used in mating experiments for obtaining transconjugants. All bacterial strains were sensitive to gentamycin and resistant to streptomycin, kanamycin and sulphanilamide. Total five fusants were obtained from each rhizobial cross combination with the help of electro-poration. Modified transconjugants, rhizobial strains had promiscuous infection with 50-122% more nodules showed significant increase in shoot fresh weight, dry weight and total nitrogen content in chickpea, pea and lentil plants. Electrofusantsrhizobial strains improved shoot nitrogen content up to 67% in lentil and 54% in pea and chickpea plants. The amount of nitrogen fixed in chickpea was highest (3.71gm) by transconjugants DP-C6- HLN followed by DP-C6-HP14 (3.56gm). Transconjugants DP-HP14-HLN fixed the highest amount of nitrogen (3.92gm) in pea and 4.06gm in lentil plants. Plasmids were also analyzed in order to characterize their role in the evolution of rhizobial symbionts and their involvement in symbiotic behaviour. The developed Rhizobium strains with improved symbiotic association and - 262 - ability to infect across strict specificity for host legumes would be of great help for the farming community at large.

2 illus, 5 tables, 45 ref

014129   Husain A S;Ahamed P;Nithin K M (Centre for e-Learning, Kerala Agricultural Univ, KAU-P.O, Thrissur, Kerala) : Stakeholder participatory design and development of an agri-infotech portal. J Agric Ext Mgmt 2016, 17(2), 25-33.

The Agri-Infotech Portal (www.celkau.in), developed by Centre for e-learning of Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) is an ICT enabled bi-lingual platform for demand-driven technology information and advisory services in the agrifront, covering agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries and allied aspects. It also acts as a platform for online course management in agriculture. As on August 2016, the portal had nearly 16 lakh hits within four years, which show a geometric progression. Besides, the portal won two international awards, one national award and the Kerala Government's e-governance award. This paper analyses the methodology followed for designing and developing this high-end utility web portal. To accomplish this, a basic research mode work on user-centred design, testing, refining and launching of the portal was adopted, as it would match the priorities of its end-users. The utility was ensured by testing and fine-tuning from its designing stage itself. Creating a working model (prototype) before developing the actual portal was the first stage. To generate content, the information needs of the users were identified and prioritized through questionnaires, brainstorming sessions, and focus group discussions. Interpretations based on the priorities, suggestions from the users, and desktop analyses of various similar portals across the world, led to designing of the first prototype. This prototype was subjected to a process of criteria/trait based evaluation by the end-users for further refinement leading to the second prototype. This second prototype was demonstrated before various categories of end-users and stake holders for final fine-tuning.

4 ref

014128   Hunjan M S;Thakur A;Singh P P (Plant Pathology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: mandeep.hunjan@pau.edu) : Identification and characterization of Pseudomonas fluorescens strains effective against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae causing bacterial blight of rice in Punjab, India. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(1), 253-61.

For the control of bacterial blight of rice caused by Xanthomonasoryzaepv. oryzae, sixty four Pseudomonas fluorescens strains were recovered from rice and wheat rhizosphere. These strains were identified on the basis of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. It was observed that the strains showing fluorescence in the selective media showed the amplification of the targeted P. fluorescens specific ITS region. The strains were also characterized for the production of the antibiotic 2, 4-diacetylphloroglucinol (DAPG) using phlDlocus. The characteristic 750bp region was amplified in all the DAPG producing strains. These strains were evaluated against X. oryzae in vitro by dual culture method. The P. fluorescens strains found effective in vitro were further tested in field for their antagonistic potentiality and disease suppression ability. P. fluorescens strain number Pf-4-R showed maximum inhibition i.e. of 5.5 mm against the test pathogen X. oryzaepv. oryzae. Talc based powder formulation of the effective strain Pf-4-R used for field evaluation, showed that pre-inoculation foliar sprays were effective in controlling bacterial blight of rice with disease suppression efficiency ranging from 29.6 to 65.6 percent in different treatments.

4 illus, 4 tables, 38 ref

014127   Hirpara B V;Patel J R;Prajapati K N;Patel D H;Patel M A;Patel A D (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Station, Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand-388 110, Email: ketan.agrian@gmail.com) : Effect of organic manures on dry biomass yield of dodi (Leptadenia reticulata). Green Fmg 2016, 7(5), 1260-2.

An experiment conducted to study effect of organic manures on dry biomass yield of kharif dodi (Leptadenia reticulata) under middle Gujarat condition at Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Research Farm, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat during kharif season of the years 2010-11, 2012-13 and 2013-14. A set of six treatments FYM 10 tones/ha, Poultry manures 5 tones/ha, Vermicompost 2 tones/ha, Caster cake 2 tones/ha, Neem cake 2 tones/ha and Biofertilizer-Azotobactor+Phosphate culture @ 1 liter/ha each were taken under Randomized Block Design to evaluate dry biomass yield of dodi. It can be summarized that use of FYM 10 t/ha proved useful in increasing growth and yield attributes over other treatments. The higher dry biomass yield (8799 kg ha^-1) was obtained under treatment T₁ (FYM 10 t/ha) and also get higher net realization worth Rs. 1,81,792 ha^-1 with BCR (1.70).

4 tables, 8 ref