031114   KUMAR P, DWIVEDI P (Research and Development Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Punjab) : Cadmium induced alteration in leaf length, leaf width and their ratio of Glomus treated sorghum seed. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 138-41.

Cadmium induced hazardous (70 ppm and 150 ppm) were evidenced by decreased in leaf length, width and their ratio of seeds treated with Glomus mycorrhiza. However, these responses were reversed by exogenous application of mycorrhiza (Glomus; 150 inoculants per kg of soil).

3 illus, 5 ref

031144   YAMINI S, BABU P R, PRASAD P R K, LUTHER M M (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Agricultural Coll, Andhra Pradesh) : Secondary nutrients and chloride content of tobacco growing soils of Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 134-7.

The present study was carried out by collecting 100 representative soil samples from tobacco growing soils of Prakasam district. The soils were found to be neutral to moderately alkaline in reaction. All the soil samples were non-saline. The exchangeable calcium was found to be the most dominant cation followed by magnesium on soil complex which ranged from 3.10 to 35.80, 0.20 to 8.50 cmol (p⁺) kg^-1, respectively and medium content of sulphur. The average chloride content was 43.85 which varied from 14.20 to 86.00 ppm, which comes under highly suitable and suitable classes for tobacco cultivation. About 89 percent soil samples were highly suitable and remaining 11 percent soil samples were suitable for tobacco cultivation.

3 tables, 19 ref

031118   PAVITHRA M, LATHA K R, THAVAPRAKAASH N (Agronomy Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Tamil Nadu) : Weed characteristics and green cob yield as influenced by crop geometry and nitrogen and iron nutrition in babycorn. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 129-33.

An experiment was carried out under sandy loam soil at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, during Rabi and summer seasons of 2016-17 and 2017-18 to study the effect of crop geometry, nitrogen and iron nutrition on weeds and yield of babycorn (Zea mays L.). Weed density and drymatter was significantly lower with 45 × 15 cm spacing and application of 100 % recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN). Higher babycorn yield was realized with the babycorn raised at 45 × 15 cm while the nutrient treatments did not differ significantly with the babycorn yield. However interaction effect was found to be conspicuous wherein application of 125 % RDN with FeSO₄ foliar spray @ 1 % at 30 and 45 DAS to the babycorn raised at 45 × 15 cm gave higher yields and was at par with the other fertilization levels of babycorn sown at the same crop geometry level.

3 tables, 26 ref

031107   JOSHI P C, PAWAR M M, GAMI Y M, PATIL S S, PATEL M P, PANCHASARA H H (Animal Nutrition Dep, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural Univ, Gujarat) : A pilot study on effect of feeding castor (Ricinus communis) oil on milk yield and composition in lactating Kankrej cows. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 126-8.

Functional oils, such as castor oil are chemical substances extracted from various plants parts which provide health benefits besides their nutritive properties. A pilot study was conducted to assess the effect of feeding castor (Ricinus communis) oil on milk yield and composition in lactating Kankrej cows. Thirty two lactating Kankrej cows (21 days in milk; average 9.74 kg/d of milk yield) were assigned randomly into four treatments having 8 cows each. The four treatments were: T₁: control group (without castor oil); T₂: 5 ml/d castor oil; T₃: 10 ml/d castor oil and T4: 15 ml/d castor oil supplementation for a period of 21 days. The average milk yield, 4 % fat corrected milk (FCM) and energy corrected milk (ECM) yield was increased numerically by 7.6, 9.2 and 9.8 %, respectively in T₄ group as compared to control. The percentage of milk fat and lactose were similar among the different treatments. Milk total solids, solidnot fat and protein were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in group T₂ than the group T₁ and comparable to both in the groups T₃ and T₄. It is concluded that dietary inclusion of castor oil at the rate of 15 ml/d has improved milk yield and modified the milk composition in lactating Kankrej cows.

3 tables, 18 ref

031139   SRIVASTAVA S (Extension Dep, Education Agriculture NDUAT Kumarganj Coll, Uttar Pradesh) : Educational adjustment of rural girls. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 89-91.

The study was conducted in Milkipur and Masodha block of Faizabad district by conducting personal interview with 160 respondents those were selected though proportionate random sampling technique on the criteria of high school, intermediate and graduation. The study depicted that the highest number of respondents (36 % Milkipur, 43 % Masodha) was found in age category of 15 to 19 years belonged to nuclear families (68 %, 72 %) and having 5-7 members in their families (47 %, 55 %) Except all respondents were unmarried and general caste respondents were more in comparison to other categories of caste. The economic motivation and value orientations were observed of medium levels. The contact of respondents with class teacher among formal sources, family members among informal sources and news bulletins, television was observed important aware mass media. The agriculture was observed as main occupation of majority of the respondents families (55 %, 37 %) and having annual income of Rs. 75,000 to 1, 50,001 (33 %, 63 %). An over whelming majority of the respondents were found using book as their main source of communication. As for as educational adjustment was concerned, the adjustment like medium followed by less and high were found to be more educational adjustment by the respondents.

15 ref

031097   DWIVEDI G, PATHAK R K, MISHRA U S (Agronomy Dep, M.G.C.G.V, Madhya Pradesh) : Performance of green gram (Mung) (Vigna radiata L.) varieties to different phosphorus levels. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 84-8.

The experiment entitled “Response of green gram (Mung) (Vigna radiata L.) varieties to different phosphorus levels” was conducted at the at Agronomy Research Farm of the “Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar, Kumarganj, Faizabad (U.P.). The farm is situated at south-east of Faizabad-Raibareilly road in a main campus of the university which is 42 Km. away from Faizabad city. During the kharif season (June-September) of 2016 to find out the Impact of varieties and phosphorus levels on the relative yield of kharif mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design with four replications and constitute of four levels of phosphorous viz., 20 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1, 40 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1, 60 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1, control (no phosphorous application) in 25 varieties ie NDM-1, Meha, Samrat, Amrit, KM 1, Mohni, Pannt mung-1, Pant mung-2, PDM-11, Pusa-105, Pusa Vaisakhi, Sabarmati, Sunaina, Varsa, Type-1, Type-44, Type-51, ML-1, ML-5, ML-131, CO-4, Jawahar-45, K-851, Gujrat-1 and Gujrat-2 of mung. Results revealed that most of the growth characters such as initial plant population, plant height, number of leaves, number of branch plant-1 were significantly increased due to application of phosphate fertilizer over control on the similar way application of phosphorous significantly increased the yield and also. The highest grain yield (11.02 q ha^-1 during 2014-15 and 11.31 q ha^-1 during 2015-16) was obtained with 60 kg P^₂O^₅ ha^-1 having an increase of 31.85 % and 31.92 % over the control during first and second year respectively and the lowest with no phosphorous application (7.51 and 7.70q ha^-1 in first and second years of investigation). Grain yield obtained by application of 40 kg P₂O₅ was statistically at par with that of 60 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1.

3 tables, 16 ref

031096   DWIVEDI G, MISHRA U S, PATHAK R K (Agronomy Dep, M.G.C.G.V, Madhya Pradesh) : Study of different varieties and phosphorus levels on yield attributes and economics of green gram (Vigna radiata L.). J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 78-83.

The experiment entitled "Impact of varieties and phosphorus levels on yield attributes, yield and economics of green gram (Mung) (Vigna radiata L.)" was conducted at the Agronomy Research Farm of the "Narendra Deva University of agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar, Kumarganj, Faizabad (U.P). The farm is situated at south-east of Faizabad-Raibareilly road in a main campus of the university which is 12 km away from faizabad city. During the kharif season of 2014-15 and 2015-16 to find out the Impact of varieties and phosphorous levels on the growth and yield of kharif mungbean (Vigna radiata (L) Wilezek). The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications and constitute of four levels of phosphorous levels viz 20 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 40 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 60 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 control (no phosphorous application in 25 varieties ie NDM-1, Meha, Samrat, Amrit, KM1, Mohni, Pant mung-1, Pant mung-2, PDM-11, Pusa-105, Pusa Vaisakhi, Sabarmati, Sunaina, Varsa, Type-1, Type-44, Type-51, ML-1, ML-5, ML-131, CO-4, jawahar-45, K-851, Gujrat-l and Gujrat-2 of mung Results showed that dry weight of plant at different growth stages were significantly increased due to application of phosphate fertilizer over control on the similar way application of phosphorous significantly increased the yield and yield contributing characters also such as number of pods per plant pod length number of seeds per plant. and seed yield The varieties also exhibited their pronounced impact on above parameters and maximum yield was noted in cultivar NDM-I while minimum yield was recorded in cultivar KM-I Economic study revealed that maximum benefit cost ratio was associated with cultivar NDM-1 with combination of 40 kg P₂O₅/ha Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek phosphorous levels growth and yield characters of mung bean.

3 tables, 23 ref

031136   SINGH M C, PANDEY P K, SINGH S, SINGH A K, HEISNAM P, SHANTIKUMAR L, SINGH B K (Basic Sciences & Humanities Dep, Central Agricultural Univ, Arunachal Pradesh) : Phyto-chemical and nutritional analysis of Deku and Itanagar indigenous rice cultivars consumed by the Adi tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, India. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 64-9.

Deku and Itanagar are the two main indigenous rice cultivars, consumed by the Adi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. An attempt was made to compile the phyto-chemical profile of these two rice cultivar to assess their nutritional and anti-nutritional components. The contents of reducing sugar, total carbohydrate, soluble protein, ascorbic acid, total phenols were higher in the Itanagar rice cultivar and cellulose, thiamine, Vitamin E, crude fibre, total free amino acid and free fatty acids along with phytic acid and tannins were higher in the Deku rice cultivar. The Deku rice cultivar was found to contain high antinutritional components such as phytic acid and tannins. Hence, it is concluded that the Itanagar rice cultivar was superior to the Deku rice cultivar.

4 illus, 2 tables, 55 ref

031087   ALI U, RAM R B, SRIVASTAVA A, PANDEY R, SINGH B K, SINGH H (Applied Plant Science (Horticulture) Dep, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Univ, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of organic manures and varieties on growth, yield and quality traits of garlic (Allium sativum L.). J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 40-2.

A field study was conducted on Horticultural Research Farm of the Department of Applied Plant Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow during the year 2014-15 to study the effect of organic manures and varieties on growth, yield and quality traits of Garlic (Allium sativum L.). The sowing was done on November with a spacing of 15×10 cm. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with twelve treatments replicated thrice. Result indicated that the maximum height of the plant (19.54, 38.85 and 59.91 cm) and leaves/plant (4.93, 7.73 and 10.73) were recorded at 30, 60 and 90 DAS with treatment RDF + 20 tons/ha vermin-compost + Bhima Purple varieties followed by treatment RDF + 25 tons/ha press mud + Bhima Purple varieties and minimize in treatment RDF 100: 60: 50 kg/ha + Yamuna Safed-5 vareity. Bulb diameter at polar (3.01 cm) and bulb diameter at equatorial (3.35 cm) were recorded maximum in treatment RDF + 20 tons/ha vermi-compost + Bhima Purple varieties. The maximum clove/bulb (20.20) and bulb weight (20.95 g) were recorded with treatment RDF + 20 tons/ha vermi-compost + G-282 varieties. Maximum yield/plot (1.00 kg) and yield/ha (100.59 q) was recorded in treatment RDF + 20 tons/ha vermin-compost + G-282 varieties. The maximum TSS (41.16 ⁰Brix) were recorded with treatment RDF + 20 tons/ha vermin-compost + Bhima Purple varieties and maximum ascorbic acid (12.46 mg/100g) were recorded with treatment RDF + 20 tons/ha vermi-compost + G-282 varieties.

2 tables, 10 ref

031109   KADAM V D, SHINDE S J, SATAV D C (Horticulture Dep, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth Parbhani, Maharashtra) : Effect of different spacing and fertilizer levels on yield and economics of beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.). J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 31-5.

A field experiment was carried out at Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, V. N. M. K. V. Parbhani. The field experiment was carried out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with three replication during the Rabi season, 2017. Treatment consisted of three levels of spacing S₁ (15 cm × 15 cm), S₂ (20 cm × 15 cm) and S₃ (30 cm × 15 cm) and three levels of fertilizers F₁ (100 % RDF), F₂ (125 % RDF)and F₃ (150 % RDF). The experiment was conducted in Factorial Randomized Block design with nine treatment combinations, replicated thrice. Variety “Ruby Queen” was selected for the study. The significant effect of the spacing and fertilizer levels were observed for number of leaves per plant, length of root (cm), weight of root per plant (g), weight of root per plot (kg), weight of root per hectare (q), yield per plot (kg), yield per ha (q) and B:C ratio. Yield characters like length of root (15.61 cm), weight of root per plant (152.80 g), weight of root per plot (10.55 kg) and weight of root per hectare (258.18q) were observed maximum with the treatments S₃ (30 cm × 15 cm) and yield characters like length of root (16.57 cm), weight of root per plant (170.84 g), weight of root per plot (10.37 kg) and weight of root per hectare (289.26 q) were observed maximum with the treatments F₃ (150 % RDF). The yield per plot (8.23 kg) and yield per ha (290.60 q) were observed maximum with the treatments S₁ (15 cm × 15 cm) and yield per plot (7.72 kg) and yield per ha (280.77 q) were observed maximum with the treatments F₃ (150 % RDF). The benefit cost ratio was found significantly superior over rest of the treatments S₁ (15 cm × 15 cm) with (2.30) and (2.15) with F₃ (150 % RDF) treatments.

4 tables, 8 ref

031140   SUJATHA H T, BABALAD H B (Agronomy Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Karnataka) : Effect of planting methods, geometry and intercrops on growth and productivity of pigeonpea in pigeonpea based cropping systems. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 26-30.

A field experiment was conducted to study the influence of planting methods, geometry and intercrops on growth and productivity of pigeonpea at College of Agriculture, Dharwad, India, during 2016-17. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with twelve treatment combinations and replicated thrice. Sole transplanted pigeonpea at 120 cm × 60 cm geometry produced significantly higher values of plant growth parameters and pigeonpea grain yield (2,662 kg ha^-1) as compared to intercropped transplanted pigeonpea (120 cm × 60 cm) and direct sown sole pigeonpea as well as intercropping systems at 120 cm × 60 cm and 90 cm × 30 cm geometries. Among the intercropping systems, transplanted pigeonpea (120 cm x 60 cm) intercropping with greengram recorded significantly higher growth parameters and pigeonpea grain yield (2,550 kg ha^-1) and transplanted pigeonpea (120 cm x 60 cm) intercropping with blackgram recorded significantly pigeonpea equivalent yield (3,987 kg ha^-1) as compared to other intercropping systems and sole pigeonpea.

1 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

031141   SUNILKUMAR N M, JADHAV R L, BHAVANI K, MALLIKARJUN N, RAVI S (Agriculture Entomology, ICAR- Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Karnataka) : Demonstration of black gram integrated crop management technology through frontline demonstrations (FLDS) in Bidar district of Hyderabad Karnataka region. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 11-4.

Black gram (Vigna mungo L.) is most important pulse crop, grown throughout the country. The productivity of Black gram is low because of non-adoption of available technologies by the farmers. In this view Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Bidar conducted 118 demonstrations in farmers field of Bidar district during the last 7 years i.e., from 2010-11 to 2016-17 through integrated crop management (ICM). It revealed that increase in crop yield was found due to variation in agro-climatic situations under rain fed condition. The result showed that, an average highest yield of FLDs plots of Black gram by adopting ICM technology was 10.58 q/ha compared to farmers practice (7.47 q/ha). Adoption of improved production technology increased the yield 47.89 per cent over farmer practices. The average technological gap, extension gap and technological index were noticed 14.42 q/ha, 2.97 q/ ha and 57.70 per cent respectively. The average net profit of Rs. 32866.54 per ha was recorded under FLDs plot over Rs 20641.50 per ha under farmer practice. The higher average grain yield was recorded in demonstration plots over the years compared to local check due to increased knowledge and adoption of full package of practices.

4 tables, 13 ref

031091   CHANDRAKAR S, SINGH P, PANIGRAHI H K, SHARMA G L, PAIKRA S (Fruit Science Dep, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Chhattisgarh) : Effect of foliar spray of calcium and micronutrients on growth parameters, flowering, fruiting and fruit maturity of strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) cv. Nabila under net tunnel. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 05-10.

The experiment was conducted at Research Farm of Centre of Excellence on Protected Cultivation and Precision Farming under net tunnel, College of Agriculture, IGKV, Raipur (C.G.) to find out the effect of Calcium and micro-nutrients on growth parameters, flowering, fruiting and fruit maturity of strawberry cultivar Nabila under net tunnel condition. The experiment was conducted with ten treatments and three replications in Randomized Completely Block Design. The treatment consisted ten different concentrations of Calcium and micro-nutrients along with recommended dose of fertilizers viz. T0: RDF + control (water spray), T₁: RDF + CaCl₂ @ 0.4 %, T₂: RDF + CaCl₂ @ 0.6 %, T₃: RDF + CaCl₂ @ 0.8 %, T₄: RDF + ZnSO₄ @ 0.4 %, T₅: RDF + ZnSO₄ @ 0.6 %, T₆: RDF + ZnSO₄ @ 0.8 %, T₇: RDF + FeSO₄ @ 0.4 %, T₈: RDF + FeSO₄ @ 0.6 % and T₉: RDF + FeSO₄ @ 0.8 %. As per the growth parameters are concerned the treatment T₈ (RDF + FeSO₄ @ 0.6 %) showed maximum vegetative growth i.e. Plant height, number of leaves, plant spread and number of runners per plant, while the minimum was recorded under the treatment T₀ (RDF + water spray). Earliest flowering, fruiting and fruit maturity was exhibited under the treatment T₈ (RDF + FeSO₄ @ 0.6 %), whereas the treatment T₀ (RDF + water spray) had too late in flowering, fruiting and maturity of the fruits.

5 tables, 12 ref

031104   HUMTSOE B M, DAWSON J, RAJANA P (Agronomy Dep, Sam Higginbottom Univ of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of nitrogen, boron and zinc as basal and foliar application on growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.). J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(6), 01-4.

The experiment consisted of two levels of Nitrogen at 120 and 150 kg ha^-1, basal application of Boron (5 kg ha^-1) and Zinc (25 kg ha^-1), without and with combination of foliar application of Boron (0.3 % at 15 DAS) and Zinc (0.25 % at 30 DAS). There were 12 treatments which were replicated thrice and laid out in a Randomized Block Design. Higher plant height, maximum plant dry weight, crop growth rate, more number of cobs plant^-1, more number of grains cob^-1, test weight and grain yield was recorded with (Treatment 12) N at 150 kg ha^-1 (along with P & K each at 75 & 60 kg ha^-1) in combination with Zinc at 25 kg ha^-1 as basal and Boron at 0.3 % as foliar spray. This treatment also recorded highest gross return, net return and benefit cost ratio.

1 table, 32 ref

031101   GIRIJAVENI V, REDDY K S, SHARMA K L, CHANDRASEKHAR C (ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad - 500 059, Email: girijgirij3@gmail.com) : Phosphorus adsorption characteristics of natural zeolite: A laboratory study. Indian J Dryland Agric Res Dev 2018, 33(2), 68-71.

Zeolites are hydrated alumino-silicates of alkali and alkaline earth metals with high ion exchange capacity. If applied along with phosphate fertilizers, these reduces the P fixation time and increase the availability of phosphorus. Thus, the present study was carried to evaluate the potential of zeolite to adsorb phosphorus through batch experiments using graded concentrations of P (0 to 50 mg L^-1). It was observed that with the increase in the initial concentration from 1 to 50 mg L^-1, the equilibrium concentration increased from 0.55 to 38.8 mg L^-1 in natural zeolite. Similarly, the amount of P adsorbed increased from 0.05 to 1.12 mg/g of natural zeolite. The adsorption was good and fitting well in linear Freundlich and Langmuir adsorption isotherm with r² = 0.99 and 0.98, respectively. As zeolite is environment friendly and cost-effective, its application can enhance phosphorus use efficiency by reducing its fixation in soils.

3 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

031130   SHARMA K L, CHARY G R, REDDY K S, INDORIA A K, CHANDRIKA D S, LAL M, GRACE J K, RAMACHANDRAPPA B K, MUDALAGIRIYAPPA, RAO C S, et al. (ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad - 500 059, Email: kl.sharma@icar.gov.in) : Effect of integrated soil management practices (ISMP) on soil properties and soil quality indices in hot moist semi-arid red alfisol soils of Bangalore region. Indian J Dryland Agric Res Dev 2018, 33(2), 54-62.

Alfisol soils encounter diversity of constraints on account of physical, chemical, and biological soil properties because of climatic and management factors leading to low productivity. This paper summarizes the effect of integrated soil management practices (ISMP) on soil properties and yield of finger millet cropping system in hot moist Alfisol soils. The experiment site is located in Deccan (Karnataka) plateau of Central Eastern Ghats, Bengaluru which was initiated in 1998 in deep sandy Alfisols. Changes in soil properties were assessed after thirteen years using 19 soil physical, chemical and biological parameters. The treatments include 3 main treatments viz., Conventional Tillage (M1), Reduced Tillage (M2), Minimum tillage (M3) and 3 sub-plot treatments viz., 100 % N through organic source (F1), 50 % N through organic source + 50 % N through inorganic source (F2) and 100 % N through inorganic source (F3) laid out in a split plot design. The results revealed that ISMP’s had a significant effect on soil chemical and biological properties viz., OC, N, P, K, MBC and LC. Among the set of nine ISMP’s, the combination of MT + 100 % organic N, MT + 100 % inorganic N and MT + 50 % organic N + 50 % inorganic N were found most promising in improving the majority of soil properties. Among integrated soil management practices (ISMP), the combinations of minimum tillage + 100 % organic N resulted in significantly higher SQI of 1.54. The average percent contribution of key indicators towards soil quality indices was: pH (8 %), available N (12 %), available P (33 %), available K (7 %), available Ca (28 %), labile carbon (12 %). A significant correlation between yield of finger millet crop and soil quality confirmed the importance of soil quality indicators and indices for achieving sustainable yields in these Alfisol soils.

2 illus, 6 tables, 30 ref

031121   PRATIBHA G, SRINIVAS I, RAO K S, SWATHI K, RAO C S (ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad - 500 059, Email: pratibhaagro65@gmail.com) : Effect of different drying methods on quality and economics of senna (Cassia angustifolia Vahl.). Indian J Dryland Agric Res Dev 2018, 33(2), 50-3.

A study was conducted at ICAR-CRIDA, Hyderabad to study the effect of different drying methods and type of leaf material on quality, colour retention and cost of drying of only senna leaves and senna leaves + stem. Senna leaves were dried by different drying methods viz., open air drying (sun), shade drying, an LPG based dryer (CRIDA dryer) and cabinet dryer with a capacity of 50 kg was used at 40, 50 and 60 °C. The results indicated that leaves dried with herbal dryer at 50 °C had higher sennoside content over other methods like open air and shade drying. Further this leaf retained better chlorophyll content as compared to other methods of drying. Drying of only senna leaves or senna leaves + stem at 50 ºC in CRIDA dryer consumed less energy, cost and higher price as compared with other drying temperatures 40 ºC, 60 °C and other drying methods.

2 tables, 10 ref

031105   JAIN L K (Krishi Vigyan Kendra Danta, Barmer - 306 902, Email: jainlokesh74@gmail.com) : Technology and extension gaps in pearlmillet productivity in Barmer district, Rajasthan. Indian J Dryland Agric Res Dev 2018, 33(2), 39-42.

Front line demonstrations on pearl millet were carried out at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Barmer (Rajasthan) to know the yield gaps between improved package of practices (IP) and farmer’s practice (FP) during kharif seasons of 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2013-14. About 44.35 % higher grain yield was recorded under demonstrations over the farmers’ practices. The extension gap, technology gap and technology index were observed to be 314 kg/ha, 478 k kg/ha and 31.9 %, respectively. An additional return of ₹ 3535/ha was obtained with additional investments of ₹ 1435 kg/ha. It was attributed to scientific management and monitoring of demonstrations and use of other inputs. Fluctuating MSP of pearl millet during different years influenced the economic returns per unit area resulted into an incremental benefit: cost ratio of 2.5 under demonstration on average basis. By conducting front line demonstration of proven technologies, yield potential of pearl millet crop could be enhanced to a great extent with increase in the income level of the farming community.

4 tables, 10 ref

031125   REDDY B S, DHIMATE A S, VENKATESH G, MALLIKARJUNA R, REDDY K S (ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad - 500 059, Email: bs.reddy@icar.gov.in) : Physio-mechanical properties of biochar granules. Indian J Dryland Agric Res Dev 2018, 33(2), 22-30.

In recent years the sequestration of carbon and its effect on the soil is gaining importance in developed countries to reduce global climate change effects. Biochar application to agricultural soils is viewed as an amendment for carbon sequestration, improve the soil physical properties and increase the efficiency of applied fertilizers. However, application of fine powder biochar is a major concern due to losses as high as 30 % at various stages and applicators safety of dust pollution. Thus, granulation process using drum type machine, composed of two types of binder materials with thermal treatment were evaluated. The desirable size range biochar granules has field capacity ranges from 60-94 % (db-dry basis) and were non hygroscopic in nature. Prosopis juliflora biochar granules with Carboxymethyl cellulose sodium binder recorded highest bulk density 326 kgm^-3 and rice starch binder granules 209 kgm^-3. The granules had less than 10 % attrition in presence of similar size harder material. The crushing strength of granules was comparable with that of commercial fertilizer granules. In sandy loam soil application granular bio-char material disintegration rate increased with increase in moisture content upto 17 % (db) of medium and need caution at higher moisture contents for proper mixing.

1 illus, 6 tables, 30 ref

031088   BALAMATTI A, CHANDRA C S S (ICAR-JSS-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur - 571 129, Email: arunbalamatti@gmail.com) : Impact of tank silt on soil fertility - A study in Mysuru district. Indian J Dryland Agric Res Dev 2018, 33(2), 14-21.

A de-silting programme of Dorekere tank was undertaken in Piriyapatna taluk of Mysuru district in 2012-13. This study was undertaken in 2014 to assess the impact of de-silting on the tank and of silt application on the farmers’ fields. A total of 32 soil samples were analyzed of which one was control and 6 were from the tank bed. The remaining 25 samples were drawn from fields of farmers who had applied silt in the year 2012-13. Tank silt had average 68 %, 25 % and 7 % silt, clay and sand, respectively. Application of silt to farm lands had increased the silt content from 45 % to 49 % whereas clay and sand contents had reduced marginally from 30 % to 29 %, and from 25 % to 22 %, respectively, leading to improved soil porosity and moisture holding capacity. The average pH of soils applied with silt was 7.27, with 0.17 ds/m EC and 0.49 % OC, indicating no significant impact on soil physical parameters. The analysis also revealed there was no reduction in the quantity of fertilizers used by farmers. However, the major crop tobacco showed better vegetative growth, though the curing issues reduced income from tobacco. There was 20 to 25 % higher yield of finger millet and dolichos apart from more fodder yields and increased revenues. Tank rehabilitation, thus, had improved the tank storage capacity, crop yields and revenues. Building farmers’ awareness about the method of silt application and soil test-based nutrient application would ensure better results for further improving soil fertility and sustainability of farming.

3 tables, 5 ref

031124   RAO K V, VIJAYAKUMAR S, SRINIVAS I, PRATIBHA G, SARALA C, UDAIKUMAR M, REDDY K S (ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad - 500 059, Email: kvrao@icar.gov.in) : On farm study on in-situ soil water conservation practices for enhancing productivity of pigeon pea. Indian J Dryland Agric Res Dev 2018, 33(2), 10-3.

Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (L), is a major pulse crop of rainfed regions of India. Surveys conducted in KVK adopted cluster villages, revealed that conventional manual sowing is laborious, un-economical and delays sowing. Furthermore, in rainfed regions, the low productivity is due to deficit soil moisture and low water holding capacity of soil. Earlier in-situ moisture conservation practice through formation of conservation furrow at 30-35 DAS was recommended but the adoption of the technology by farmers is low due to ill distribution of rainfall. Hence to capitalize the initial rainfall for higher productivity and for better adoption the paired row planting and conservation furrow, a new technology developed at ICAR-CRIDA in rainfed regions was tested in farmers’ fields and this treatment was compared with farmers method of sowing. To sow the crop, in this technology a paired row planter was fabricated. In this technology the spacing of pigeon pea was modified to 60/120 cm and conservation furrow was formed between two crop rows. The productivity of pigeon pea was enhanced because the placement of seed and fertilizer is in uniform and placement of seed distance at correct depth is very important for proper germination was good. The sowing of seed in two adjacent edges of two furrows helped in favorable crop growth due to sufficient moisture. The field capacity of the planter was 0.55 ha/hr with field efficiency of 85 %. The cost of sowing operation with paired row planter was ₹ 1300/ha, which is lower than the conventional method. Furthermore, in the improved method 25 % of seed and 45 % fertilizer saving was observed. Paired row planting recorded 34.25 % higher yield as compared to farmers practice.

3 illus, 4 tables, 13 ref

031131   SHARMA K L, REDDY K S, CHARY G R, RAO C S, SINGH D N, LAL M, KUMAR P, INDORIA A K, SRINIVAS K, SUMACHANDRIKA, GRACE J K, GOPINATH K, VASAVI M, HAINDAVI P (ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad - 500 059, Email: klscrida@gmail.com) : Effect of long term conjunctive nutrient management practices on soil quality indicators and indices in oxisol soils under rice (Oryza sativa L.) - black gram (Vigna radiata L.) cropping system in Ranchi region. Indian J Dryland Agric Res Dev 2018, 33(2), 01-9.

A long term study was conducted for 8 years (from 1998-2005) to quantify the influence of conjunctive nutrient management practices on soil quality indicators and indices. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with nine treatments in three replications under rice (Oryza sativa L.) – black gram (Vigna radiata L.) rotation. The nutrient management treatments selected for soil quality assessment studies comprised of T1: Control, T2: 100 % recommended N (40 kg N/ha through inorganic), T3: 50 % recommended N (20 kg N/ha through inorganic), T4: 25 kg N through compost, T5: 15 kg N/ha (compost) + 10 kg N/ha (inorganic), T6: 15 kg N/ha (compost) + 20 kg N/ha (inorganic), T7: 15 kg N/ha (green leaf) + 10 kg N/ha (inorganic), T8: 15 kg N/ha (green leaf) + 20 kg N/ha (inorganic). After 7 years of experimentation, the results of the study revealed that the application of 15 kg N Green leaf + 20 kg N inorganic (1.57), 15 kg N Green leaf + 10 kg N inorganic (1.56), and the application of 100 % recommended N (40 kg through inorganic) significantly influenced the soil quality (SQI 1.58) compared to other treatments and maintained relatively higher soil quality indices. The indicators which emerged as key soil quality indicators and which substantially contributed towards soil quality were: EC (7 %), OC (20 %), available K (10 %), available B (8 %), DHA (15 %), BD (23 %) and MWD (17 %). Bulk density was found to have maximum contribution towards aggrading the soil quality followed by organic carbon in these soils. The results of the present study will be highly useful to researchers, land managers, students and other stake holders associated with soil and land management.

4 illus, 6 tables, 47 ref

029824   PANDIAN B A, JOEL J, NACHIMUTHU V V, SWAMINATHAN M, GOVINTHARAJ P, TANNIDI S, SABARIAPPAN R (Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore - 641 003, Email: manonmanitnau@gmail.com.) : Marker-aided selection and validation of various Pi gene combinations for rice blast resistance in elite rice variety ADT 43. J Genet 2018, 97(4), 945–52.

Rice blast caused by fungal pathogen Pyricularia oryzae has a major impact on reducing yield potential of rice. In this study, homozygous plants were selected using microsatellite markers from the BC₃F₂ population pyramided with four major genes in elite rice variety ADT 43. Background and selected lines with various blast resistance gene combinations were screened under natural conditions to study the effects of various gene combinations. Upon inspection of lines with different gene combinations, the three-gene pyramided line Pi54+Pi33+Pi1 was found to be highly resistant with the score of 3.3 followed by other three-gene pyramided lines Pi54+Pi2+Pi1 and Pi33+Pi2+Pi1, with the scores of 3.9 and 3.8, respectively. Two-gene pyramided lines Pi54+Pi1, Pi33+Pi1 and Pi2+Pi1 were found to be moderately resistant with a mean score of 4.0 each. In the case of monogenic lines, positive plants for Pi54 performed almost equal to three-gene pyramided lines with a mean score of 3.6. Lines with Pi2 and Pi1 were found to be moderately resistant and moderately susceptible with the mean scores of 4.1 and 4.5, respectively.

3 illus, 4 tables, 44 ref

029883   TRIPURA U, HEGDE N K, PATIL C P, KULKARNI M S (Spices and Plantation Crops Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore - 641 003, Email: uttam_uhs@yahoo.in) : Impact of bio-inoculants and bio-formulations on growth and yield of turmeric (Curcuma longa). Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 398-401.

An experiment was conducted during 2011–12 at Arabhavi, Karnataka, to study the impact of bio-inoculants and bio-formulations on growth and yield of ‘Salem’ cultivar of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.). Turmeric cv. ‘Salem’ showed better response to combined application of inorganic fertilizers, bio-inoculants and bio-formulations than other treatments used in the study. Combined application of recommended dose of fertilizer [(RDF), FYM @ 25 t/ha and N:P:K @ 180:90:90 kg/ha) + VA-Mycorrhiza (VAM) + Trichoderma harzianum + Panchagavya + Amrit pani resulted in higher fresh rhizome yield and growth parameters, viz. plant height, pseudostem diameter, leaf area and leaf-area index, which was at par with the treatment, RDF + VAM + Trichoderma harzianum. Similarly, the highest benefit: cost ratio of 4.87 was obtained with the application of RDF + VAM + Trichoderma harzianum + Panchagavya + Amrit pani compared to the other treatments. Hence planting of turmeric rhizome with combination of RDF + VAM + Trichoderma harzianum + Panchagavya + Amrit pani was profitable under northern dry zone of Karnataka.

2 tables, 10 ref

029825   PARAJULI T, KUMAR N (Dr Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural Univ, Bihar - 848 125, Email: navnitsripusa@gmail.com) : Effect of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium levels on sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid complex) varieties under upland rainfed conditions of Bihar. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 394-7.

A field experiment was conducted during the spring season of 2015–16 on sandy-loam soil, to evaluate the effect of NPK levels (50, 75 and 100 % of the recommended dose) on productivity and profitability of sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid complex) varieties (‘BO 130’, ‘BO 139’, ‘BO 153’, ‘CoP 9301’ and ‘CoLk 94184’) under sub-humid, sub-tropical upland rainfed conditions of Pusa, Bihar (25^o 59' N, 85^o 40' E). Among the varieties, ‘BO 139’ showed the highest cane diameter (2.44 cm) and single cane weight (812 g). Variety ‘BO 153’, being equally efficient in producing millable canes and cane yield with ‘CoLk 94184’ and ‘BO 130’, were significantly found superior to ‘CoP 9301’ and ‘BO 139’. The sucrose content (18.34 %) obtained with ‘CoP 9301’ was on a par with that of ‘BO 139’ (18.00 %) and significantly higher over rest of the varieties, whereas ‘BO 153’ recorded the highest net returns (94,000/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (1.26), followed by ‘BO 130’, ‘CoLk 94184’, ‘BO 139’ and ‘CoP 9301’. Among the fertility levels, 100 % recommended dose of NPK, being at par with 75 % recommended dose of NPK, recorded the significantly highest millable canes (93,400/ha), cane diameter (2.27 cm) and cane : top ratio (4.0) over 50 % recommended dose of NPK. Application of 100 % recommended dose of NPK also resulted in significantly higher cane yield (64.1 t/ha), sucrose content (18.15 %), gross returns (163,400/ha), net returns (86,700/ ha) and benefit: cost ratio (1.13). However, the differences between 75 and 100 % recommended dose of NPK were non-significant. Sugarcane ‘BO 153’ can be grown for higher yield and economic returns with application of 75 % recommended dose of NPK under upland rainfed conditions.

2 tables, 12 ref

029841   SAHA G, GHOSH M, NATH R, GUNRI S K, ROY K, SAHA B (Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal - 741 252, Email: mghoshbckv@rediffmail.com) : Effect of boron and zinc on growth, yield and economics of lentil (Lens culinaris) in new alluvial zone of West Bengal. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 391-3.

A field experiment was conducted at District Seed Farm, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, India, to study the effect of boron (B) and zinc (Zn) on growth, yield and economics of ‘Moitree’ lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) during the winter (rabi) seasons of 2013–14 and 2014–15. Two micronutrients, viz. boron (B) and zinc (Zn), with variations in method and time of applications had significant effect on plant height, dry-matter (DM) production, and cropgrowth rate (CGR) throughout the cropping season. The crop treated with T₄ [recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) + soil application of B @ 1.0 kg/ha)] resulted in the highest aerial dry-matter yield (132.7 g/m²) at 75 days after sowing (DAS) and crop-growth rate (3.23 g/m²/day) between 46 and 75 DAS compared to the other treatments used in the investigation. Although the foliar spray of both B @ 0.1 % and Zn @ 0.25 % twice at 40 and 60 DAS (T₁₀) recorded the highest number of pods/plant (102.2) and seed yield (1.21 t/ha), single spraying of B @ 0.1 % at 40 DAS (T₅) to lentil recorded moderate yield (1.15 t/ha), maximum net return (27,009/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (1.86), which could be used for lentil crop during the winter season in New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal.

1 table, 6 ref

029877   SWATI, SINGH J (Chaudhary Sarvan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Himachal Pradesh - 176 062, Email: singhjdr@rediffmail.com) : Productivity and profitability of soybean (Glycine max) as influenced by different fertility levels and seed rates under mid-hill conditions of Himachal Pradesh. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 388-90.

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) season of 2016 at Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, to evaluate the optimum dose of fertilizers and seed rates of ‘HIMSO 1685’ of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design, comprising 2 genotypes (‘HIMSO 1685’ and ‘Harasoya’) and 2 seed rates (75 and 100 kg/ha) in main-plots and 4 fertility levels [0, 75, 100 and 125 % of recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF)] in sub-plots. The soil of experimental site was silty clay loam, acidic, low in available nitrogen, and medium in available phosphorus and potassium. The highest values of primary branches/plant, number of pods/plant and 1,000-seed weight were recorded in ‘HIMSO 1685’ and at 100 % RDF. Significantly higher yields, productivity, gross and net returns, benefit: cost and profitability were recorded in ‘HIMSO 1685’ sown with 75 kg/ha seed rate and at 100 % RDF. The treatment, 100 % of recommended dose of fertilizer and 75 kg seed/ha were found to be the best agronomic practices for obtaining higher productivity and profitability of ‘HIMSO 1685’ soybean under mid-hill conditions of Himachal Pradesh.

1 table, 7 ref

029828   PRADHAN A, MEENA S L, BEHERA U K (Agronomy Div, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi - 110 012, Email: dr_slmeena@yahoo.co.in) : Growth, yield and nutrient uptake of maize (Zea mays) as influenced by tillage and potassium management under conservation agriculture. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 383-7.

A field experiment was carried out during the rainy (kharif) season (July–October) of 2016 at the research farm, New Delhi, to study the effect of time of K application on the performance of maize (Zea mays L.) under conservation agriculture. The maximum values of yield-attributing characters, viz. cob length (16.3 cm), cob girth (13.6 cm), cob weight (5.6 t/ha), grain rows/cob (13.7), grains/cob (3,567) and test weight (215 g) in maize were recorded with ZT – bed + residue followed by zero tillage (ZT) + residue and conservation tillage (CT) – No residue. The treatment, K2 [half recommended dose (RD) at basal and half at tasseling) showed significantly higher values of yield attributes than all other treatments. The highest grain (4.66 t/ha) and stover (9.51 t/ha) yields were recorded in ZT – bed + residue over ZT + residue and CT – No residue. Half dose of K at sowing + half at tasseling recorded significantly higher grain (4.46 t/ha) and stover (8.65 t/ha) yield than other treatments in subplots which are at par with one-third at sowing + one-third at knee high (30 days after sowing) + one-third at tasseling. The yield improvement with ZT – bed + residue was 11.21 % over CT-No residue and 7.37 % over ZT + residue. ZT – bed + residue registered significantly higher N, P and K content in seed and stover and uptake during the period of study followed by ZT + residue and CT – No residue. The total N (119 kg/ha), P (27 kg/ha) and K uptake (181 kg/ha) were maximum with ZT – bed + residue which was significantly higher than ZT + residue and CT – No residue. Among the timing of K application practices, higher N, P and K content in grain, stover and total uptake in maize was observed in half at sowing + half at tasseling, which was statistically at par with one-third at sowing + onethird at knee high (30 days after sowing) + one-third at tasseling but significantly higher than recommended dose as basal (60 kg K₂O/ha).

3 tables, 7 ref

029890   VERMA P, SINGH Y V, CHOUDHARY A K, DAS A (ICAR Research Complex for North-Eastern Hills Region, Meghalaya - 793 103, Email: parkashverma677@gmail.com) : Influence of nutrient-management practices and microbial inoculants on productivity and profitability of lowland rice (Oryza sativa) in eastern Himalayas. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 380-2.

A field study was conducted during the rainy (kharif) season of 2016 at Umiam, Barapani, Meghalaya, to find out the effect of different nutrient-management practices and microbial inoculants on yield-attributing characters, yield and profitability of lowland rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Eastern Himalayas. The experiment consisted of 12 treatment combinations including 3 nutrient-management practices, viz. 100 % organic, 100 % inorganic [recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF)] and integrated nutrient management (INM; 75 % RDF + 25 % FYM), in main plot and 4 microbial inoculation treatments, viz. control, Azospirillum, Azospirillum + phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB), Azospirillum + PSB + zinc-solubilizing bacteria (ZnSB) in subplots. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with 3 replications. The yield-attributing characters, viz. tillers/m², panicle length and filled grains/panicle were the highest with INM treatment, followed by inorganic and organic nutrient-management practices. Similar trend was observed in case of 1,000-seed weight, but it was at par with the other nutrient-management practices. The highest grain yield (4.27 t/ha) was recorded in INM, followed by inorganic (4.08 t/ha) and organic (3.65 t/ha) nutrient-management practice. Among the microbial inoculants, the highest yield was recorded in Azospirillum+ PSB + ZnSB treatment, followed by Azospirillum + PSB and Azospirillum treatment. The highest cost of cultivation ( 28,829/ ha) was recorded under organic nutrient management, while net returns (48,615/ha) were maximum in INM practice with combined application of Azospirillum+ PSB + ZnSB. Thus, INM (75 % RDF and 25 % organic inputs, i.e. FYM) and microbial inoculants could be used for higher productivity and profitability of lowland rice in Eastern Himalayas.

1 table, 9 ref

029752   HARISH M N, CHOUDHARY A K, SINGH Y V, POONIYA V, DAS A, VARATHARAJAN T (ICAR Research Complex for North-Eastern Hills Region, Meghalaya - 793 103, Email: anilhpau2010@gmail.com) : Influence of promising rice (Oryza sativa) varieties and nutrient-management practices on micronutrient biofortification and soil fertility in eastern Himalayas. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 377-99.

An experiment was conducted during the rainy season (kharif) of 2016 at Barapani, Meghalaya, to study the influence of promising rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties and nutrient-management practices on plant nutrient acquisition and soil fertility. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design, replicated thrice, consisting 12 treatment combinations, viz. 4 nutrient-management practices [100 % organic, 100 % inorganic recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), integrated nutrient management (INM) (50 % RDF + 50 % FYM) and control] in main plot, and 3 promising rice varieties [‘Shahsarang 1’, ‘Lumpnah’ and ‘Megha’ Semi-Aromatic 2'] in subplots. The results showed that rice grain yield was significantly higher in INM practice, followed by inorganic and organic practice. Among the varieties, grain yield was significantly higher in ‘Shahsarang 1’ followed by ‘Lumpnah’ and ‘Megha’ SA 2. The INM practice also resulted in highest Fe, Mn, Cu content in rice grains, while the organic practice showed the highest grain Zn. Among the varieties, ‘Megha SA 2’ had highest grain Fe, Mn and Zn content, while ‘Shahsarang 1’ exhibited the highest grain Cu. Micronutrient uptake in rice grains followed the similar trend as that of nutrient-management practices and rice varieties. There was an improvement in available NPK over initial status with higher available NPK in INM practice and higher soil organic carbon in organic practice.

1 table, 10 ref

029884   UGHADE S R, TUMBARE A D, SURVE U S (Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Maharashtra - 413 722, Email: santoshughade2008@gmail.com) : Relevance of fertigation on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) under polyhouse. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 372-6.

A field experiment was conducted at Rahuri, Maharashtra during the summer seasons of 2013 and 2014, to study the effect of fertigation levels and schedules on yield and monetary returns of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under naturally ventilated polyhouse. The treatments included 3 fertigation levels [60 % of recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), 80 % of RDF and 100% of RDF] and 3 fertigation schedules (6 equal splits of NPK at every 18 days interval, 9 equal splits of RD of NPK at every 12 days interval, 12 equal splits of RD of NPK at every 9 days interval). Yield attributes like number of fruits/plant and fruit weight/plant significantly increased 20.63 and 27.54 % owing to fertigation of 80 % RDF over 60 % RDF. Similarly, fertigation schedule comprising application in 12 equal splits at 9 days interval resulted in significantly more yield attributes over the other schedules. Results of 2 years of investigation indicated that fertigation of 80 % of RDF (240 : 120 : 120 N : P : K kg/ha) in 12 equal splits at every 9 days interval up to 120 days after transplanting proved most suitable to achieve the maximum tomato fruit yield (14.34 t), net monetary returns ( ₹148,300)/unit of polyhouse (784 m²) during summer season under naturally ventilated polyhouse condition.

3 tables, 18 ref

029876   SUNITHA S, GEORGE J, SREEKUMAR J (ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Kerala - 695 017, Email: sunitharajan1@rediffmail.com) : Response of cassava (Manihot esculenta) minisetts to varying levels of drip fertigation. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 366-71.

A field experiment was conducted during 2014–15, 2015–16 and 2016–17 at Sreekariyam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, to investigate the response of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) minisetts to different levels of drip fertigation. Short-duration variety of cassava ‘Sree Vijaya’ was used for the study. The experiment was laid out in 3² factorial design with 9 treatments (3 levels each of nitrogen and potassium 75, 100 and 125 kg/ha applied through drip fertigation) in 3 replications. Full phosphorus was applied as basal soil application. A control with soil application of standard recommended dose of fertilizers (100, 50 and 100 kg N, P and K per ha) was also kept for comparison. Minisetts of cassava raised in nursery were transplanted during December every year and harvested during May. Drip irrigation was given uniformly @ 100 % cumulative pan evaporation. Pooled data analysis of the 3 years indicated that a combination of N @ 75 kg/ha and K @ 125 kg/ha through drip fertigation was the best in terms of tuber yield (48.68 t/ha), net income ( ₹331,900/ha), benefit: cost ratio (3.14) and energy-use efficiency (19.06) for cultivation of cassava minisett under drip fertigation.

2 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

029743   DUA V K, MINHAS J S, RAWAL S, SINGH S P, SINGH S K, KUMAR P, PATHANIA R, KAPOOR T, SHARMA J, SHARMA S K, MANKAR P, RAWAT S, SINGH B P, CHAKRABARTI S K (ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute, Himachal Pradesh - 171 001, Email: vkdua65@yahoo.co.in) : Calibration and validation of WOFOST model for seven potato (Solanum tuberosum) cultivars in India. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 357-65.

A crop-growth simulation model WOFOST was calibrated and validated for 7 Indian potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars, namely ‘Kufri Arun’, ‘Kufri Garima’, ‘Kufri Khyati’, ‘Kufri Kanchan’, ‘Kufri Lalit’, ‘Kufri Sadabahar’ and ‘Kufri Surya’. The time course data on crop growth and development collected from field experiments at Modipuram (Meerut), Patna, Gwalior and Jalandhar during 2011–12 to 2014–15 were used for calibration and validation of model. The model was calibrated and validated for Indian potato cultivars with reasonable accuracy. Simulated values for emergence and initiation of tuber growth varied between 1 and 5 and 3 and 5 days, respectively, from the measured values, for different cultivars. Variation in final dry-matter yield was maximum in ‘Kufri Surya’ (7.5 %), while the variation in tuber dry-matter yield at maturity was maximum in ‘Kufri Arun’ (6.9 %), which were within the acceptable limits. The indicators of model performance, i.e. the maximum error (ME), root mean square error (RMSE), coefficient of residual mass (CRM) and coefficient of determination (CD) also indicated that the model performance was very satisfactory. The results demonstrated that the WOFOST model can be used for studying and predicting the growth and development of potato crop under Indian situation for popular Indian cultivar.

6 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

029796   MANE R B, TUMBARE A D, SURVE U S (Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Maharashtra - 413 722, Email: rajendrabmane24@gmail.com) : Drip fertigation and crop management in Bt cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 350-6.

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season of 2014 and 2015 at Rahuri, Maharashtra, to study the effect of deficit irrigation, fertigation and planting techniques on growth, yield and quality parameters of Bt cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Scheduling of irrigation at 1.0 ETc recorded significantly maximum growth, yield attributes and seed-cotton yield of Bt cotton, being at par with 0.8 ETc irrigation regime. Maximum and significantly higher seed-cotton yield was recorded in 1.0 ETc irrigation regime (3.3 t/ha), being at par with 0.8 ETc irrigation regime (3.1 t/ha) on pooled mean basis. Planting of Bt cotton at 90 cm × 90 cm was found superior to 150 cm × 60 cm in respect of growth, yield attributes and seed-cotton yield of Bt cotton. Planting of Bt cotton at 90 cm × 90 cm resulted in significantly higher seed-cotton yield (3.3 t/ha) than 150 cm × 60 cm planting (2.3 t/ha) on pooled mean basis. Fertigation of 100 % GRDF up to 100 days + 20 kg MgSO₄/ha and 25 kg ZnSO₄/ha up to flowering at weekly interval + foliar spray of Fe (1.0 %) and B (0.5 %) at flowering and boll-development stages was found suitable for achieving the maximum growth, yield attributes and seed-cotton yield (3.1 t/ha) of Bt cotton. The maximum wateruse efficiency was obtained with 0.6 ETc irrigation regime (7.00 kg/ha-cm), followed by 0.8 ETc irrigation regime during both the years.

4 tables, 17 ref

029741   DHILLON B S, SHARMA P K, SARDANA V (Punjab Agricultural Univ, Punjab - 141 004, Email: bsdhillon@pau.edu) : Productivity of spring sunflower (Helianthus annuus) in response to sowing dates and foliar application of boron and TIBA. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 342-9.

A field experiment was conducted during 2014 and 2015 at Ludhiana, to study growth attributes, physiological parameters, pre- and post-anthesis dry-matter accumulation (DMA), dry-matter translocation (DMT), contribution of pre-anthesis dry-matter assimilates to seed (CDMS), yield-contributing traits and seed yield of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design by keeping 3 sowing dates (20 January, 10 February and 2 March) in main plots and 8 treatments of foliar applications (control, water spray, boron at 110, 220, 440 ppm, and TIBA at 100, 200, 400 ppm) in subplots in 3 replications. Early-sown crop gave better yieldcontributing characters (head diameter, seed weight/head, thalamus weight, number of seeds/head, seed filling percentage, 1,000-seed weight) and higher seed yield (2.01 t/ha) owing to higher post-anthesis DMA (1,908 kg/ha) coupled with better photosynthetic parameters (chlorophyll fluorescence and chlorophyll-content index), growth attributes and root-mass density. Foliar application of boron at 220 and 440 ppm as well as TIBA at 100, 200 and 400 ppm also significantly improved yield-contributing characters and seed yield (by 10.7 to 21.5 %) over the control and water spray probably owing to higher post-anthesis DMA (147 to 267 kg/ha higher than the control), DMT (29 to 80 kg/ha higher than the control), DMTE, CDMS and better photosynthetic parameters. Economic analysis indicated that foliar application of B at 110, 220 and 440 ppm and TIBA at 100 ppm can be used to obtain higher profitability from sunflower crop.

1 illus, 6 tables, 18 ref

029895   YADAV R, KUMAR S, DHAKA A K, KUMAR N (Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural Univ, Haryana -125 004, Email: rekha25yadav@gmail.com) : Phenology, dry matter and yield of greengram (Vigna radiata) as influenced by planting methods and weed-management practices. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 337-41.

An experiment was carried out during the rainy (kharif) season of 2014 and 2015 at Hisar, Haryana, to find out suitable method of planting and weed management in greengram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek]. There was no significant effect of planting methods and weed management practices on days taken to 75 % emergence. Similarly, days to 50 % flowering, 50 % pod formation and physiological maturity were not affected by planting methods. However among weed-management practices, these parameters were significantly lesser in weedy check treatment as compared to remaining treatments. Total dry-matter accumulation in plant remained unaffected due to planting methods and weed-management practices at 15 days after sowing (DAS). However, at remaining stages of observation (30, 45 DAS and at maturity), statistically higher dry-matter accumulation in plant (4.17, 12.28 and 30.57 g/plant, respectively) was recorded in raised-bed method among the planting methods and in weed-free treatment (5.03, 14.23 and 34.49 g/plant, respectively) among the weed-management practices. Of the different planting methods and weed-management treatments, raised bed and hand-weeding (15 and 30 DAS), respectively, provided the highest weed-control efficiency (86.6 %). Seed yield (8.5 q/ha), net returns (17.6×10³/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (1.73) were maximum in the raised-bed method of planting. The maximum seed yield (1.11 t/ha) was found in weed-free treatment, but net returns (27.2 × 10³/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (2.33) were the maximum in treatment having post-emergence application of imazethapyr @ 100 g/ha.

4 tables, 8 ref

029885   UMESH M R, SWAMY T S M, ANANDA N, SHANWAD U K, CHITTAPUR B M, DESAI B K, ANGADI S (Agricultural Sciences Univ, Karnataka - 584 104, Email: mrumeshagri@gmail.com) : Nitrogen application based on decision support tools to enhance productivity, nutrient-use efficiency and quality of sweet corn (Zea mays). Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 331-6.

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) seasons of 2014 and 2015 at Raichur, Karnataka, to establish optimum thresholds of leaf colour chart (LCC), chlorophyll meter (SPAD) and normalized differential vegetation index (NDVI) to guide in-season crop need-based N fertilizer application. Treatment consisted of LCC thresholds 4 and 5, SPAD 40 and 50, NDVI thresholds 0.6 and 0.8 with 30 kg/ha N whenever N level fell below threshold, blanket N (150 kg N/ha) either 2 or 3 splits, half recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) basal + half to foliage as 2 % urea at 30, 45 and 60 days after planting (DAP), and control (without N). Results revealed that LCC 5, SPAD 50 and NDVI 0.8 corresponding to 120 kg N/ha recorded higher sweet corn yield with or without husk cob, fresh grain quality and nutrient uptake over blanket 150 kg N/ha at fixed intervals. These decision support tools based N management helped to save N fertilizer 20 to 40 kg/ha besides improving agronomic efficiency of N.

1 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

029861   SINGH D, SINGH J, KALIA A (Agronomy Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Punjab - 141 004, Email: davinderbuttar@gmail.com) : Yield, nutrient availability and uptake in wheat (Triticum aestivum) as influenced by Azotobacter and nitrogen levels. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 326-30.

An experiment was carried out during the winter (rabi) season of 2014–15 and 2015–16 at Ludhiana, Punjab, with objectives of increasing nutrient availability, uptake and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yield with application of Azotobacter and nitrogen. Results showed that inoculation with Azotobacter and increased nitrogen levels significantly improved the yield attributes. Among the inoculation methods, seed inoculation with Azotobacter enhanced yield by 7.7 % and 8.3 % during 2014–15 and 2015–16, respectively, over un-inoculated control. The nutrient content, uptake and soil microbial count were also improved with the inoculation of Azotobacter and increase nitrogen levels. The seed and soil inoculations were statistically similar to each other for different parameters during both the years.

3 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

029767   KAUR J, MAHAL S S, BRAR A S (Punjab Agricultural Univ, Punjab - 141 004, Email: jagroopsekhon@pau.edu) : Evaluation of water-use efficiency and soil physical properties under different sowing methods, mulch levels and irrigation schedules in wheat (Triticum aestivum). Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 318-25.

A field experiment was conducted at Ludhiana, Punjab, during winter (rabi) season of 2013–14 and 2014–15, to study the effect of sowing methods, mulch levels and irrigation schedules on water-use efficiency and soil physical properties in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Bed sowing registered significantly higher apparent water productivity (14.5 %), root density in 0–15 cm soil layer (1.7 %) and infiltration rate of water (13.4 %) and lower bulk density of 0–15 cm soil layer (3.1 %) and soil-penetration resistance at 15 cm soil depth (18.2 %) over flat sowing. Paddy straw mulch application @ 6 t/ha significantly increased leaf-area index, photosynthetically active radiation interception, dry-matter production and grain yield as compared to paddy straw mulch @ 3 t/ha and no-mulch. Mulch application @ 6 t/ha increased the water-use efficiency (WUE) by 16.5 and 32.9 kg/ha/cm over mulch @ 3 t/ha and no-mulch, respectively, and lowered the maximum soil temperature, bulk density and soil-penetration resistance than no-mulch. Irrigation schedule of 1.0 irrigation water/cumulative pan evaporation (IW : CPE) significantly increased the dry-matter production and grain yield. However, irrigation schedule of 0.6 IW : CPE significantly increased the WUE and apparent water productivity than 0.8 and 1.0 IW:CPE schedules.

2 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

029882   TRIPATHI S K, DUBEY S, MAURYA D (Water Resources Development and Management Dep, National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning (ICAR), Delhi- 110 012, Email: sankufwt@gmail.com) : Field and model study of rainfall pattern and its impact on wheat (Triticum aestivum) productivity in Uttarakhand. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 312-7.

The rainfall pattern aberrations during winter (rabi) season (December to March) in north India are a cause of concern to administrators and researchers. A field experiment was carried out during 2013–14 and 2014–15 at Roorkee, Uttarakhand, to study the effect of rainfall pattern on productivity of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). It was laid down in factorial design with treatment combinations including 4 wheat varieties (‘PBW 292’, ‘HD 2967’, ‘PBW 154’ and ‘PBW 550’) and 3 sowing dates (20 November, 5 December and 20 December), replicated thrice. Soil was sandy loam, moderate in fertility. Crop was grown under best management practices. Weather data were recorded from Automated Weather Station installed at the farm. Observations were recorded on growth, development, yield and yield attributes of the crop. The results showed that the total rainfall during the growing season was similar, i.e. 222.2 mm in 2013–14 and 227.1 mm in 2014–15 but the pattern was totally different. During the winter (rabi) season 2013–14, a very high rainfall occurred in January (98 mm) and February (52 mm) that coincided with the grand growth phase of wheat, resulting in to bumper harvest. On the contrary, during the winter (rabi) season 2014–15 higher rainfall was received in March (115 mm) and April (62 mm) which coincided with flowering and grain-setting stages, resulting in reduced productivity due to lodging. The average productivity of wheat during 2013–14 was 4.37 t/ha, whereas during 2014–15 it was 3.78 t/ha. Productivity during 2014–15 was reduced by 13.6 % in comparison to 2013–14. Loss in productivity was more (ranging from 11.4 % to 42.1 %) in timely sown crop. The late-sown (20 December) treatment did not reveal much productivity loss and remained within 5 % during 2014–15. Normal-sown varieties (‘PBW 292’, ‘HD 2967’, ‘PBW 154’) suffered serious productivity loss as compared to late-sown variety (‘PBW 550’). DSSAT model simulated result compared well during 2013–14. However, during 2014–15 the heavy rainfall in March and April caused severe lodging and the model perhaps could not detect it.

2 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

029867   SINGH T, SATAPATHY B S, LAL B, PUN K B (Agronomy Div, ICAR-National Rice Research Institute, Asom - 781 102, Email: tiku_agron@yahoo.co.in) : Productivity and profitability of rice (Oryza sativa) varieties as influenced by age of seedlings in north-eastern Himalayan region. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 307-11.

An experiment was conducted during boro (rabi) season of 2012–13 and 2013–14, at Gerua, Kamrup, Asom, India, to study the effect of different age of seedlings on growth and yield of rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties. Ten treatment combinations of 2 different duration rice varieties, i.e. ‘Chandrama’ (175 days) and ‘Naveen’ (155 days), and 5 ages of seedlings (40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 days) were tested. ‘Chandrama’ rice recorded significantly higher grains/panicle and 1,000-seed weight as well as grain yield (5.93 and 6.50 t/ha) over ‘Naveen’ rice. Days to 50 % flowering decreased with the increment in age of seedling by 2–10 days, whereas total maturity duration increased by 6–28 days. In case of age of seedlings, 40 and 50 days old seedlings showed higher values of growth and yield attributes that reflected in grain yield. There was gradual yield decrease with increment in the age of seedling due to reduced values of tillers/m², filled grains/panicle. The yield penalty was non-significant in case of long-duration rice variety ‘Chandrama’, while in case of ‘Naveen’, there was significant reduction in grain yield when seedling age exceeded beyond 60 days. ‘Naveen’ rice with 40 and 50 days old seedlings recorded significantly higher grain yield over 70 and 80 days seedlings respectively. Earlier farmers using their own local rice landraces which were long duration and less affected by age of seedling but with development of new semi-dwarf, medium-duration rice varieties need to be transplanted at optimum age of seedling. Thus, the age of seedling can be extended up to 60 days for those rice varieties having long duration (>175 days) while for short duration (<155 days), it should not be extended beyond 50 days.

4 tables, 15 ref

029728   BHUVA H M, DETROJA A C (Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Gujarat - 361 006, Email: hasmukhbhuva@gmail.com) : Influence of nutrient management with organic manures on productivity, profitability and quality of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum)-chickpea (Cicer arietinum) sequence. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 300-6.

A field experiment was conducted at Jamnagar, Gujarat during 2010–11 to 2013–14 on clayey soil, to improve the productivity and sustainability of pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]–chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cropping sequence with organic source of nutrient supply. Nine treatments comprising application of farmyard manure (2.5, 5.0 and 7.5 t/ha), vermicompost (1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 t/ha), farmyard manure (FYM) + vermicompost (2.5 + 1.0 t/ha) only in pearl millet crop and absolute control were compared with recommended dose of fertilizer [(RDF) 80-17-0 kg for pearl millet and 20–17–0 kg N-P-K/ha for chickpea). Among the organic sources, an application of 7.5 t FYM/ha to pearl millet recorded the highest values of yield attributes and yield in pearl millet (1.59 t grain and 3.92 t stover/ha) and beneficial residual effect on yield attributes and productivity of succeeding chickpea (2.37 t seed and 2.60 t stalk/ha) and remained at par with RDF. Pearl millet grain-equivalent yield (8.48 t/ha) and production (19.42 kg/ha/day) and economic efficiency (399.6 /ha/day) were also comparable under 7.5 t FYM/ha with RDF. The maximum net returns were obtained under RDF (81,521/ha), while the maximum benefit: cost ratio (BCR) was observed with FYM 7.5 t/ha (2.84). Protein content in pearl millet and chickpea increased with the increase in the dose of FYM and vermicompost and the highest protein content (10.73 % for pearl millet and 23.25 % for chickpea) was recorded with 7.5 t FYM/ha. Significantly the lowest bulk density (1.36 Mg/m³) and highest porosity (46.3 %) were noted with 7.5 t FYM/ha compared to absolute control and RDF. Lower pH (7.60), higher organic carbon (6.0 g/kg) and significantly higher post-harvest soil-nutrients status (223.4, 11.3 and 329.8; N, P and K/ha) were observed with 7.5 t FYM/ha compared to initial status of soil.

4 tables, 17 ref

029780   KUMAR R, KRISHNA M, BHATNAGAR A, PANDEY D S, SINGH V P, RAM P (Govind Ballabh Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Uttrakhand - 263 145, Email: shuklarajeew@gmail.com) : Effect of rock phosphate with different acidulates on growth and yield of different field crops. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 293-9.

A field experiment was conducted from 2009–10 to 2011–12 at the Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Center at Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, to find out the efficiency of rock phosphate (RP) with different organic [farmyard manure (FYM), pressmud and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB)] and inorganic [single superphosphate (SSP) and gypsum]-acidulating materials. Rainy season (kharif) crops, namely rice (Oryza sativa L.), soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], maize (Zea mays L.) and winter season (rabi) crops, namely Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj & Cosson], rabi maize, chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.), were selected for the study. The experiment carried out in a randomized block design with 8 treatment combinations of different acidulates with rock phosphate and replicated 3 times. Treatments include control, SSP + RP, RP + gypsum, RP + PSB, RP + FYM, RP + PM, RP + FYM + PSB and RP + PM + PSB. The maximum grain yield (5.18 t/ha) and straw yield (10.87 t/ha) in rice were observed when press mud and gypsum was used for acidulation respectively. Kharif maize and rabi maize gave the maximum grain yield when rock phosphate was acidulated with SSP. However, treatment effects were non-significant. Soybean, Indian mustard and lentil gave the maximum grain yield in gypsum acidulation of rock phosphate, but the effect due to treatments was significant in Indian mustard only. In chickpea, significantly higher grain yield (2.38 t/ha) was recorded in FYM + PSB acidulation than the other treatments which was found on a par with FYM and PM + PSB acidulation treatment.

5 tables, 20 ref

029836   RAMESH, NEGI S C, RANA S S, KUMAR S (Abhilashi Univ, Himachal Pradesh - 175 028, Email: rameshhpkv@gmail.com) : Effects of resource conservation technologies on productivity, nutrient acquisition, employment generation and energetics of maize (Zea mays)-based cropping systems in north-western Himalayan region. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 285-92.

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season (kharif) 2012–13 and winter season (rabi) 2013–14 at Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, to evaluate the effect of resource conservation technologies (RCTs) on productivity, nutrient acquisition and energetics of maize (Zea mays L.) - based cropping system. The experiment was conducted in split-plot design, replicated thrice with 2 tillage methods, viz. zero tillage (ZT) and conventional tillage (CT); and 3 cropping systems, viz. maize (Zea mays L.) – wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) (M–W), baby corn (Zea mays) + Frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)–pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense.)–summer squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) (BC+FB–P–SS) and maize + soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]–gobhi sarson (Brassica napus L.) + toria (Brassica campestris var. black toria) (M+S–GS+T) in main plot; and 2 mulch levels, viz. no mulch (NM) and cropresidue mulch (CRM); and 2 fertilizer levels, viz. recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) and 75 % of RDF + 25 % N through FYM (INM) in subplot. The results revealed that CT resulted in significantly higher maize grain-equivalent yield (MGEY 11.4 %), biological yield (12.3 %), system output energy (7.9 %), net energy (13.4 %), energy productivity (12.8 %), energy output efficiency (7.9 %) and energy intensity in economic terms (4.6 %) than ZT. Among the cropping systems, BC+FB–P–SS showed higher MGEY (190.8 %), biological yield (97.3 %), employment generation (55.9 %) and energy productivity (138.0 %) and also consumed higher energy input (29.3 %) than the traditional M–W cropping system. The N, P and K uptake was the highest in M+S–GS+T. Application of crop-residue mulch and INM resulted in significantly higher MGEY, biological yield and system energy input. Thus conventional tillage proved best in terms of MGEY, biological yield and energy indices by providing more yield than zero tillage. Further, diversifying the existing cropping system with vegetable-based cropping system can be more profitable to the hill farmers and can provide more regular employment opportunities.

1 illus, 5 tables, 18 ref

029769   KHOKHAR A K, BAWA S S, SINGH S, SHARMA V, SHARMA S C, KUMAR V, CHARY G R, SINGH M J (Punjab Agricultural Univ, Punjab - 144 521, Email: anilkhokhar@pau.edu) : Tillage and nutrient-management practices for improving productivity and soil physico-chemical properties in maize (Zea mays)-wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system under rainfed conditions in Kandi region of Punjab. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 278-84.

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) and winter (rabi) seasons from 2012–13 to 2014–15 at Ballowal Saunkhri, Punjab, to study the effect of tillage and sources of nitrogen (N) on crop productivity and soil health in maize (Zea mays L.) – wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cropping system. The experiment was conducted under rainfed conditions in a split-plot design with 3 replications. In the main plots 2 tillage practices, viz. rotavator and conventional tillage, were assigned and in the subplots 6 nutrient-management practices, viz. control, 40 kg N/ha through urea, 80 kg N/ha through urea, 20 kg N/ha through compost + 20 kg N/ha through urea, 40 kg N/ha through urea + 40 kg N/ha through compost and 20 kg N/ha through compost + 20 kg N/ha through Leucaena leaves, were alloted. Conventional tillage resulted in 15.5 and 0.44 % higher grain yield of maize and wheat (3.10 and 2.26 t/ha respectively) over rotavator (2.62 and 2.25 t/ha respectively). Consequently, system productivity of conventional tillage (5.58 t/ha) in terms of wheat-equivalent yield was 9.7 % higher than that with rotavator (5.04 t/ ha). Application of 80 kg N/ha through urea increased the maize yield by 45 % and wheat yield by 43 % over the control. System productivity was significantly higher when N was applied either through urea (5.65 to 6.51 t/ha) or through urea and organic sources (4.89 to 6.19 t/ha) than the control (3.61 t/ha). The input-energy requirement in conventional tillage was 6.3 and 4.4 % higher in maize and wheat than rotavator. In maize, output energy, energy balance, energy-use efficiency and energy productivity were significantly higher in conventional tillage than rotavator. While in wheat energy values were higher in rotavator, these were at par with conventional tillage. Bulk density (1.44 Mg/m³) and soil organic carbon (0.59 %) with rotavator improved significantly. Application of 40 kg/ ha N from urea + 40 kg N/ha from compost recorded the highest bulk density (1.41 Mg/m³), organic carbon (0.60 %), available N (199 kg/ha) and P (29.6 kg/ha). Benefit: cost ratio of the system was significantly higher with rotavator (1.70) and application of 80 kg N/ha (2.07) from urea.

5 tables, 18 ref

029834   RAM A, KUMAR D, SHIVAY Y S, ANAND A, SINGH N, DEV I (ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi - 110 012, Email: ashusirvi84@gmail.com) : Effect of sulphur on growth, productivity, and economics of wheat (Triticum aestivum) and residual soil fertility under aerobic rice (Oryza sativa)-wheat cropping system in Inceptisols. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 271-7.

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) seasons of 2010–11 and 2011–12 at New Delhi, to study the direct and residual effect of sulphur (S) application on growth, productivity and economics of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grown under aerobic rice (Oryza sativa L.)-wheat cropping sequence. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design for first aerobic rice and split-plot design for succeeding wheat and second cycle of aerobic rice–wheat system. Five treatments comprising combinations of 2 S sources i.e. gypsum and phosphogypsum and 3 S levels, i.e. 0, 30 and 60 kg S/ha, were taken in aerobic rice. And in succeeding wheat, each main plot was split into 3 sub plots for application of elemental sulphur at 3 levels, i.e. 0, 15, and 30 kg S/ha and replicated thrice. Application of sulphur resulted in increase of growth parameters i.e. plant height, dry matter accumulation, leaf-area index (LAI), chlorophyll content and crop growth rate (CGR) over the control. The yield attributes, viz. effective tillers/m2, spike weight (g) and filled grains/spike were observed highest with 30 kg S/ha, followed by 15 kg S/ha. Averaged across two years, application of 15 and 30 kg S/ha increased the grain yield of wheat by 8.4 and 11.6 %, respectively, over no sulphur treatment. Corresponding values for straw yields were 8.9 and 11.4 %, respectively. Though highest yields (grain, straw and biological) were obtained with 30 kg S/ha, but significant response was observed only up to 15 kg S/ha. The highest net return was fetched with 30 kg S/ha, but significant response was found only up to 15 kg S/ha. Application of 60 kg S/ha through either of the sources to preceding rice had a significant residual effect on yields and economics of succeeding wheat. Highest status of available N, P and K after wheat harvest was recorded in no sulphur treatment and, in contrast availability of sulphur in soil increased with increasing level of sulphur up to 30 kg/ha.

2 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

029826   PATRA A K, MOHAPATRA B K, SWAIN S K, GARNAYAK L M, MISHRA K N, MOHANTY T R, PAIKARAY R K (Orissa Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Odisha - 759 132, Email: alokpatra2000@gmail.com) : On-farm evaluation of rice (Oryza sativa)-based cropping systems for increasing system productivity, profitability, resource-use efficiency and energy productivity in mid-central table land zone of Odisha. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 264-70.

A field experiment was conducted during 2011–12 and 2012–13 at farmers’ field of Angul district under mid central table land zone of Odisha, to assess productivity, profitability and resource-use efficiency of 5 different rice (Oryza sativa L.) - based cropping systems, viz. rice–groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.), rice–green gram [Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek], rice–cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.], rice–okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] and rice–onion (Allium cepa L.). Rice–onion and rice–okra cropping systems recorded significantly higher average rice-equivalent yields (15.47 and 14.67 t/ha respectively) than the other systems evaluated, the relative production efficiency being 104 and 94 % over the existing rice–groundnut system (7.57 t/ha). The highest land-use efficiency was exhibited with rice–onion (73.7 %). Rice–green gram exhibited the highest irrigation water use efficiency (427 kg REY/ha), whereas rice–cowpea recorded the highest apparent nutrient-use productivity (56 kg REY/kg NPK applied). Rice–okra and rice–onion had higher employment-generation efficiency (116 and 108 % respectively). Rice–cowpea showed the highest energy-use efficiency (6.30) and energy-output efficiency (844 MJ/ha/day). Rice–okra registered the highest net returns of 97,740/ha followed by rice–onion system (96,974/ ha). These 2 systems revealed higher system profitability (268 and 266 /ha/day) and crop profitability (386 and 360 ha/day). Rice–okra and rice–onion systems recorded higher benefit: cost ratio of 2.43 and 2.25 with higher relative production efficiency (94 and 104 %) and relative economic efficiency (291 and 288 %) compared to rice–groundnut system. Rice–okra and rice–onion cropping systems were the most productive and remunerative cropping systems and can be followed in place of existing rice–groundnut system under mid-central table land of Odisha with 8–9 irrigations to rabi/summer crops.

6 tables, 12 ref

029875   STIGTER K, RAMESH K, UPADHYAYA P K (The Free State Univ, South Africa- 9300, Email: cjstiger@usa.net) : Mulching for microclimate modifications in farming - An overview. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(3), 255-63.

Mulch kept on or applied to the soil modifies crop microclimate above and within the soil as well as above and within the mulch. Residue retention, mulch application and/or live mulch planting are few methods followed by farmers throughout the world. These mulches modify crop microclimatic aspects, viz. solar radiation, reflection and absorption, shading, thermal radiation, temperature, humidity, wind/ air movement, evaporation (crop and soil), soil moisture (surface and within) and crop composition, structure and growth. They have marked effects on the soil–residue–atmosphere interfaces, depending on the characteristics of the residues, soil moisture and temperature alterations simultaneously, and modifications in the plant physiological functions due to environmental conditions created by mulches.

96 ref

029897   YADAV S, SOLANKI Y P S, SINGH V, YASHVEER S, KESH H (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar – 125 004, Haryana, Email: satenderyadav.satu@gmail.com) : Assessment of diversity for yield and its component traits in F₂ population of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under salinity conditions. Appl Biol Res 2018, 20(3), 256-61.

Genetic diversity analysis of yield and yield contributing traits in F₂ population of wheat cross ‘Kharchia 65 x HD 2851’ was estimated, based on D² -statistics, for 100 selected phenotypically superior plants that were grouped into 13 clusters. Clustering pattern revealed that cluster II and IV were the largest ones with 14 genotypes. The highest inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters VII and VIII (11.67), followed by between clusters VII and X (10.85), VII and IX (9.88) and VII and XII (9.88). This indicates that plants included in these clusters possess wide genetic diversity. Further, cluster VIII exhibited high mean value for number of spikelets spike^-1 (18.0), number of grains ear^-1 (36.0), grain yield plant^-1 (0.911 g) and biological yield plant^-1 (4.342 g). Cluster I showed highest mean value for the number of grains spikelet^-1 (3.0), moderate 1000-grain weight (32.95 g) and acceptable harvest index (34.6 %). The clusters VII, I, II, III, XI and XII were outstanding on the basis of better cluster mean for most of the characters. The genotypes in these clusters should be selected and utilized to the advanced generation in a breeding program for improved salinity tolerance.

4 tables, 23 ref

029758   JAWADHA S K, SINGH H, SINGH J, KAUR R (Fruit Science Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana – 141 004, Punjab, Email: skjawandha@pau.edu) : Degreening of Baramasi lemon {Citrus limon (L.) Burm} in response to ethephon application. Appl Biol Res 2018, 20(3), 244-9.

Harvesting of summer crop of Baramasi lemon (Citrus limon) coincides with the rainy season that leads to low market demand and poor returns to the growers. Therefore, an experiment was planned for post-harvest degreening of lemon fruits to advance the marketing. Fully mature fruits of lemon cv. ‘PAU Baramasi Lemon-1’ were treated with different concentrations of ethephon solution viz., 0, 500, 750, 1000, 1250 and 1500 ppm for 5 min. Treated fruits were packed in CFB boxes with paper lining and kept at room temperature. Experimental fruits were analysed for physicochemical characteristics from 4th to 7th day after treatments at 24 h interval. Results revealed that maximum degreening of fruits occurred with ethephon @ 1500 ppm, which was depicted by ‘b*’ value (49.37, 50.83) of colour flex meter and these results were at par with ethephon @ 1250 ppm treatment. Similar trend was recorded for other parameters viz., physiological loss in weight, sensory quality, juice content, total soluble solids and acid content. It may be concluded that lemon fruits of cv. ‘PAU Baramasi Lemon-1’ harvested in June can be degreened in 6-7 days at room temperature by dipping in 1250 or 1500 ppm of ethephon so as to advance the marketing of summer crop.

6 tables, 21 ref