027241   KHEDKAR D D (Irrigation and Drainage Engineering Dep, Dr A. S. Coll of Agricultural Engineering, Rahuri- 413 722, Email: devidaskhedkar@gmail.com) : Efficiency in water use and yield of okra (Abelmoschus esculentum L.) under drip irrigation. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 905-10.

The objective of this study was to determine the irrigation levels that results in the maximum productivity and efficient use of water for the cultivation of okra. The experiment had six irrigation levels (1.15, 1.00, 0.85, 0.702, 0.55 and 0.40 of crop evapotranspiration (ETc) through drip irrigation system. The experiment was planned in kharif season. The experimental design is in randomized block, with four replications. Irrigations were applied to the crop at an alternate day by drip irrigation system, the FAO Penman-Monteith standard method was used to estimate the reference evapotranspiration by using available climatological data. The treatment T₂ i.e. 1.00 ETc of water through drip irrigation system produced maximum yield (160.37 q/ha) and followed by treatment T₃ (0.85 ETc) was 154.35 q/ha. As the yield of treatment T₂ (1.00 ETc) shows maximum yield and at par with the yield of treatment T3 (0.85 ETc), the treatment T₃ i.e. 0.85 ETc of water through drip irrigation system can be recommended for irrigation of scheduling for okra. It was shown that the total effective rainfall occurred during crop season was 119.00 mm and total depth applied are as 347.44 mm, 301.60 mm, 219 mm, 177 mm, 159 mm to the treatment T₁, T₂, T₃, T₄, T₅ and T₆ respectively. Among the different treatments, treatment T₆ (0.40)  ETc of water through drip irrigation system) shows maximum and significantly superior water use efficiency (85.86 kg/ha-mm) over other treatments. This shows that the treatment with the low application of water applied water efficiently. However this may be due to the considerable amount and rainfall received during the period which is 30-40 % of total water applied.

3 tables, 6 ref

027240   SOREN S, BORAH S, NATH A, CHAKRABORTY A, MAHANANDIA N C, GOGOI N K, DAS J (Assam Agricultural Univ, North Lakhimpur- 787 051, Email: sbsborah06@gmail.com) : Pig productivity threatened by higher air temperature and relative humidity in pig populated regions of Assam. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 901-4.

Pigs rearing under low input system in the Lakhimpur and Dhemaji districts of Assam, India might not only undergo nutritional stress but may also be affected by the environmental variables. As pigs lack a well-developed cutaneous thermoregulatory mechanism, it makes them more uncomfortable with the changing environment. Therefore, in the present study, an analysis was done on the possible impact of temperature and relative humidity on the productive and reproductive performances of the pigs reared in the area of study.

2 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

027239   SHIVAKUMAR M, RADHIKA K, SARLA N, VENKANNA V (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Agriculture Coll, Hyderabad- 500 030, Email: shivafriends.72@gmail.com) : Character association and path analysis for yield and its component characters in rice. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 876-80.

The present investigation is carried out to study the correlation and path analysis in 42 rice varieties and 18 rice genotypes in Jagtial. Telangana during kharif, 2014. The correlation analysis revealed that the seed yield / plant showed significant positive correlation with total number of tillers/plant, number of productive tillers/plant, total no. grains / panicle, number of filled grains/panicle, spikelet fertility (%) and 100-seed weight (g) and negative correlation with days to 50 % flowering. Hence, selection for these traits can improve yield. Path coefficient analysis revealed that highest positive direct effect of number of filled grains/panicle on grain yield at genotypic level followed by 100-seed weight (g), total number of tillers / plant, number of productive tillers / plant was observed, whereas total no.grains / panicle and days to 50 % flowering had a negative direct effect.

2 tables, 15 ref

027238   SANGMA P N, MATHEW B (Rural Development and Agricultural Production Dep, North-Eastern Hill Univ, Tura- 794 002, Email: drbmathew@gmail.com) : Effect of rooting media and time of air layering in guava (Psidium guajava L.) in West Garo Hills, Meghalaya. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 864-70.

The present study was conducted during December 2016  to March 2018 in the Institutional Farm of the Department of Rural Development and Agricultural Production, NEHU, Tura Campus, which lies between 25°52´ North latitude and 90°20´ East longitude. The data showed significant effect of different rooting media and time of layering on various parameters of rooting success, root characters, growth characters and field establishment. Among the eleven rooting media,  it was observed that three rooting media out performed in most of the parameters recorded. The rooting media prepared by mixing equal proportions of Soil + Sawdust (T₇) ; Soil + Vermicompost + Cocopeat + Sawdust (T₁₁) and Cocopeat + Sawdust (T₁₀) were found to be the best rooting media for air layering of guava under West Garo Hills climatic condition. Among the different time of layering evaluated in the present study, it was found that the most ideal time of air layering in guava was first week of August followed by first week of June and April for air layering in guava under the agro-climatic condition of West Garo Hills.

5 tables, 8 ref

027237   SANGMA S Y A, PEREIRA L S, DANG J C (RDAP Dep, North-Eastern Hill Univ, Tura- 794 002, Email: drlollysp@gmail.com) : In vitro seed germination of Citrus macroptera mont- An endangered species of Meghalaya. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 854-9.

Citrus macroptera Mont. locally known as Chambil is a fruit tree growing in semi-wild conditions of West Garo Hills and South Garo Hills districts of Meghalaya. Citrus macroptera is listed as rare, semi-wild and endangered species by the National Research Center for Citrus, Nagpur. The embryos of this species are mostly under developed, thus resulting in poor natural germination. The seeds being recalcitrant in nature cannot be preserved for long. As an alternative strategy for conservation of this endangered species an experiment was conducted to standardise the medium and culture environment for in vitro seed germination. Among the different media evaluated, full strength MS medium with pH of 5.8, temperature of 25 °C, photoperiod of 10/14 h (light/ dark) under 1000 lux light intensity showed early germination (7-9 days) and exhibited the highest percentage of seed germination (63-73 %) with highest shoot length (2.09-2.64 cm) and root length (1.52-1.99 cm).

6 tables, 17 ref

027236   KAMBOJ G, KUMAR P, KUMAR S (Indian Institute of Wheat & Barley Research, Karnal- 132 001, Email: pradeeptaliyan231@gmail.com) : Genetic analysis of grain yield and quality traits regarding heterosis in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 846-54.

The present experiment was carried out to study the heterosis for grain yield and quality traits involving 10 parents and their 45 F1s excluding reciprocals during 2012-13 and 2013-14. The cross (Vallabh Basmati 21 × CSR 13) exhibited highest significant heterosis over better parent (24.22**), standard parent (10.24**) and mid parent (5.41**) for grain yield whereas the cross (Vallabh Basmati 21 × CSR 30) showed significant heterosis over standard check for grain yield, kernel breath, kernel length, L/B ratio and hulling percent. These crosses could be exploited for getting desirable recombinants from the segregating populations. Inclusion of lines with good combining ability in a national hybrid rice program may offer genetic improvements in breeding for higher yield and some other quality traits in rice.

4 illus, 11 ref

027235   JHANAVI D R, PATIL H B, JUSTIN P, REVANAPPA, RANJITHA B M, KAVYASHREE N (Vegetable Science Dep, Horticulture Coll, Bagalkot- 587 103, Email: jhanavidr@gmail.com) : Correlation and path analysis studies for growth, yield and quality traits in French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 838-45.

An experiment of correlation and path analysis studies in French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) for twenty one characters were studied in 36 genotypes collected from IIHR, Hesaraghatta, conducted, during rabi season of the year 2015-16. Correlation studies revealed total yield per plant was found to be positively and significantly (at p=0.01) associated  with characters like plant height at, number of primary branches, plant spread, pod length, pod flesh thickness, number of seeds per pod, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per cluster, number of pods per plant, weight of ten pods, dry matter content of pods and number of root nodules per plant. Path analysis studies revealed that significant positive association at genotypic level was observed with number of clusters per plant, number of pods per cluster, weight of ten pods and pod length had exhibited true association with direct effect on yield per plant.

1 illus, 4 tables, 23 ref

027234   PHILEMON J, PRASAD V M, JHANAVI D R (Horticulture Dep, Allahabad Agriculture Univ (SHIATS-DU), Allahabad- 211 007, Email: jhanavidr@gmail.com) : Varietal evaluation of fenugreek (Trigonella foenumgraecum L.) for growth and yield. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 835-7.

Seven entries of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) collected from different research institutes were evaluated for various growth parameters and seed yield during rabi season of 2013. Significant differences were obtained for all the parameters. Maximum seed yield 12.89 q ha^-1 was recorded in Rajendra Kranthi, which was statistically superior over all other cultivars. Rajendra Kranthi gave 12.89 q ha^-1 higher seed yield over local check followed by Kasuri Selection (12.20 q ha^-1).

1 table, 7 ref

027233   MANDI S K, SARKAR S, GOSWAMI S B (Agronomy Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur- 741 252, Email: sbg_bckv05@rediffmail.com) : Evaluation of organically grown rice varieties for their seed yield and quality in the lower Indo-Gangetic plains. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 817-22.

 A field experiment was conducted during kharif  season of  2013 to study the crop performances and the seed quality of leading eight rice varieties viz. IET 4786, MTU 7029, Gitanjali, Lalat, Sabita, Pratiksha, Gobindabhog and Swarna Sub-1 under organic nutrition in the lower Indo-Gangetic Plains. The substitution of recommended dose of N, P₂O₅ and K₂O @ 60 : 30 : 30 kg ha^–1 was made through organic sources like FYM, Vermicompost and Mustard cake. The application of recommended doses of nutrients by using organics had significant effect on the growth, yield component, grain yield and seed quality of rice varieties in kharif season. The variety Sabita performed well in relation to growth parameters followed by Pratiksha and MTU 7029. However, the rice variety Pratiksha recorded the highest grain yield of 6154 kg ha^–1 followed by MTU 7029 and the lowest grain yield was recorded in Gitanjali by 2148 kg ha^–1. In respect of seed quality parameter, Lalat was significantly different from all the varieties tested in terms of seed viability, germination percentage, vigor index, root length, shoot length and seed dry weight. Hence, it is concluded that variety Pratiksha may be recommended for organic rice seed production in West Bengal.

2 tables, 10 ref

027232   PARMAR S S, PATHAK M (Vegetable Science Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana- 141 004, Email: shipraparmar690@gmail.com) : Heterosis and combining ability studies for yield and quality traits in bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.). Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 798-807.

Eight parental lines and 28 F₁ hybrids of bottle gourd received from half-diallel were examined to analyzed the extent of heterosis and combining ability for ten agronomic and five quality characters. Regarding general combining ability the parent PBOG8 was good combiner for fruit weight, marketable yield, vine length, dry matter and ash content. Pusa Naveen for number of fruit per plant was good combiner. The crosses Punjab Komal × Punjab  Long, PSPL × Punjab Barkat, Punjab Barkat × Pusa Naveen, Punjab Long × Gutka Long, PBOG-7 × PBOG-8 showed positive significance for specific combining ability for marketable yield. For ascorbic acid content, the best cross combination with highest SCA value was PBOG-7 × Pusa Naveen and Punjab Long × Punjab Barkat. Punjab Komal × PSPL and Gutka Long × Pusa Naveen showed significantly positive heterosis for fruit weight and marketable yield. For the quality character ascorbic acid, PSPL × Pusa Naveen, PSPL × Punjab Barkat and Punjab Barkat × PBOG-8 showed highly significant positive heterosis.

5 tables, 13 ref

027231   CHAKRABORTY N, MANDAL B, DAS A K, MANNA R K (ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kolkata- 700 120, Email: nabs.chak87@gmail.com) : Phyto-chemical, antibacterial and brine shrimp toxicity studies of green banana leaves. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 767-76.

Green banana or cooking banana plants have been of great importance to man, serving diverse needs from food, culture and religion. The biochemical, antimicrobial and cytotoxicity activity of the ethyl acetate fraction of the dried leaf powder of cooking banana is evaluated following fractionation, soxhlet extraction and chromatography. The TPC, TQC and TTC content of the fraction is recorded as 12.85 GAE mg/g, 6.91 QE mg/g and 2.74 mg/g of the dry weight respectively which is comparatively higher than the preceding chloroform fraction. The MIC of the fraction against gram negative anaerobic bacteria E. tarda is recorded at 625  µg/ml and radical scavenging strength with IC₅₀  at 0.055 mg/ml with AAI of 0.0173. The cytotoxicity assay of the ethyl acetate fraction was examined on brine shrimp nauplii hatched from 250  µm cysts under suitable laboratory conditions with PHR at 92 %. The threshold percent mortality was calculated from probit logistic regression analysis with LC₅₀ at 0.845 µg/ml at 6 h exposure. The normal distribution of the data is assured by Shapiro Wilk significance.

5 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

027230   RANJITHA B M, ALLOLLI T B, WANI S P, SAWARGAONKAR G L, MANSUR C P, ATHANI S I, REVANAPPA, KUMAR K H Y (Vegetable Science Dep, Horticultural Sciences Univ, Bagalkot- 587 104, Email: ranju.horti@gmail.com) : Effect of nutrient management practices and organic amendments on growth, earliness and quality of chilli hybrid Sitara. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 755-60.

Experiment was conducted in Dharwad district, Karnataka during kharif season of 2015-2016, with an objective to assess the effectiveness of nutrient management practices and organic amendments on growth, earliness and quality of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) hybrid Sitara. The results revealed that the maximum  plant height (80.4 cm), branches per plant (6.1), stem thickness (1.6 cm), leaf area index (0.25), days to first flowering (37.6) and days to 50 % flowering  (37.6) were recorded due to adoption of INM practices. However, with regard to quality parameters like vitamin C (263.6 mg/100 g) and chlorophyll content (2.1 mg/100 g), which were recorded higher with organic practices (among nutrient management practices). Panchagavya application recorded maximum growth and earliness parameters like plant height (82.8 cm), branches per plant (6.5), stem thickness (1.7 cm), leaf area index (0.25), days to first flowering (37.2) and days to 50 % flowering (46.7), across different organic amendments. Quality parameters like vitamin C (263.6 mg/100 g) and chlorophyll content (2.1 mg/100 g) also showed best result with panchagavya application. Application of organic manures and organic amendments resulted in high quality chilli fruits over other treatments. Nevertheless, a significant increase in yield of chilli was recorded with the combined application of manures and organic amendments.

2 tables, 23 ref

027229   SWETHA K, MADHAVI M, PRATIBHA G, RAMPRAKASH T (Agronomy Dep, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural Univ, Rajendranagar- 500 030, Email: swethakota55@gmail.com) : Evaluation of herbicide mixtures for weed control in maize (Zea mays L.). Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 742-8.

A  field experiment was carried out to evaluate the tank-mix efficacy of new hydroxy-phenyl pyruvate dioxygenase (4-HPPD) herbicide with atrazine for weed control in maize (Zea mays L.) during kharif 2014. The experimental field was infested with five grasses, six broad leaved weeds and a sedge. Tank mix application of topramezone or tembotrione @ 25.2 or 105 g/ha with atrazine @ 250 g/ha along with adjuvants effectively controlled all annual grassey weeds except Cynodon dactylon which was bleached but soon recovered after sometime Cyperus rotundus was also not very effected, where as it resulted in excellent control of broad leaf weeds. These treatments also recorded highest grain yield and yield attributes on par with hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS.

3 illus, 4 tables, 8 ref

027228   ASHWINI C, GIRI G K (Plant Pathology Dep, Post Graduate Institute, Akola-444 001, Email: chilkuriashwini@gmail.com) : Evaluation of bioagents against seed borne fungi in green gram and blackgram. Environ Ecol 2018, 36 (3), 723-6.

 An experiment was conducted 2011-2012 in vitro the effect of different antagonists viz. Trichoderma viride, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis were evaluated against different seed borne fungi of green gram and black gram by dual culture technique. Among three bioagents, Bacillus subtilis exhibited maximum mycelial growth inhibition of Phoma medicaginis (73.70 %), Fusarium solani (57.60 %), Fusarium oxysporum (47.82 %) and Macrophomina phaseolina (47.29 %) followed by Pseudomonas fluorescens exhibited maximum mycelial growth inhibition of Phoma medicaginis (71.70 %), Macrophomina phaseolina (62.41 %), Fusarium oxysporum (59.97 %) and Curvularia lunata (41.08 %) respectively and lowest mycelial growth observed in Phoma medicaginis (68.33 %), Macrophomina phaseolina (44.94 %), Fusarium solani (38.95 %) with Trichoderma viride.

1 table, 18 ref

027288   AHMAD T, KUMAR Y, SINGH J N (Transfer of Technology Div, Central Institute of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: tanbirvet05@rediffmail.com) : Effect of frozen storage of goat meat on quality parameters stored in the form of chunk and mince in two packaging materials. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 780-5.

Meat of non-descript type old female goat of more than two years age and meat of young castrated male goat of around 9 months age were procured, chilled to 4 ± 1 ºC for 24 hrs and then frozen stored at -10 ± 1 ºC in the form of chunks and mince, packaged in low density polythene (LDPE) -300 g (gauge) and high density polythene (HDPE) -200 g for 0, 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks. Samples of meat were evaluated for pH, water holding capacity (WHC), salt soluble protein (SSP), water soluble protein (WSP), non protein nitrogen (NPN), thiobarbituric acid value (TBA) and microbiological load in terms of aerobic plate count (APC). Overall there was significant (P < 0.01) rise in pH as the storage period progressed. There was nonsignificant (P < 0.01) difference between treatments. The average WHC increased significantly (P < 0.01) upto 8 weeks (32.87 %) and then started decreasing and was lowest at 16 weeks (24.14 %). There was significant decrease (P < 0.01) in WSP as the storage period increased from 0 week to 16 weeks. The average WSP of old female goat meat kept as chunk in LDPE and mince in HDPE increased significantly (P<0.01) with respect to young male goat meat (kept as chunk in LDPE and mince in HDPE). There was significant (P < 0.01) reduction in SSP as the storage period progressed but there was non-significant decrease between 4 weeks and 8 weeks. SSP was 8.53 % at 0 week and 4.58 at 16 weeks. The average TBA-values increased significantly (P < 0.01) at each storage interval. The value increased from 0.28 (at 0 week) to 0.65 (at 16 weeks) mg of malonaldehyde/kg of meat. Mince kept in HDPE of old female goat had significantly (P < 0.01) higher TBA value than other treatments. There was significant (P < 0.01) reduction (5.65 log₁₀ cfu/g at 0 week and 5.26 log₁₀ cfu/g at 16 weeks) at each storage interval in APC as the storage period increased.

7 tables, 27 ref

027287   KUMAR S N, JAYASHANKAR M R, RAMAKRISHNAPPA N, RUBAN W, SREESUJATHA R M (Animal and Fisheries Sciences Univ, Bidar - 585 401, Email: navingen@gmail.com) : Carcass and meat quality characteristics of Bandur ram lambs. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 774-9.

The present study was aimed at characterizing carcass and meat quality traits in Bandur/ Mandya ram lambs. Eighteen ram lambs were slaughtered at the age of six months by Halal method. The pre-slaughter weight (PSW), hot carcass weight (HCW) and dressing percentage based on PSW recorded were 13.49 ± 0.26 kg, 6.44 ± 0.14 kg and 47.77 ± 0.70 per cent, respectively. The mean loin eye area was 15.43 ± 0.64 cm² . The mean primal cut weights for leg, loin, rack, chuck, and breast and fore shank were 2.090 ± 43.35, 0.675 ± 29.40, 0.646 ± 28.82, 2.036 ± 47.35 and 0.601 ± 23.97 kg, respectively. The highest proportion of meat was recorded in leg (25.06 %) and chuck (23.23 %). The meat quality traits viz., pH, water holding capacity, Warner-Bratzler Shear Force value, cooking loss and back fat thickness were 6.35 ± 0.05, 49.74 ± 3.33 per cent, 3.75 ± 0.14, 26.01 ± 2.19 per cent and 0.26 ± 0.02 cm, respectively. The mean percentage values for proximate principles viz., moisture, crude protein, crude fibre, ether extract, and total ash were 72.10 ± 0.38, 19.76 ± 0.34, 0.24 ± 0.03, 7.23 ± 0.47 and 1.01 ± 0.04 per cent, respectively. Compared to earlier reports higher loin eye area measurement was observed in the present study indicating higher muscular development in Bandur ram lambs.

7 tables, 26 ref

027286   SINHA M K, THOMBARE N N, MONDAL B, MEENA M S, KUMAR P (ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneswar - 751 023, Email: mukeshwtc@gmail.com) : Analysis of foot and mouth disease in dairy animals: An assessment of cost and loss from sample farmers. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 754-7.

Response from 60-farm owners was analyzed to assess the economic impacts of foot and mouth disease. Data were recorded through personal interview methods during 2006-07 from small farmers across the villages of Pune region. The loss in terms of reduced revenues and cost as extra resources used for treatment were quantified and aggregated. The estimated production loss to the tune of Rs. 3184.00 in crossbreeds cows and Rs. 3062.50 in buffaloes, whose share was 74.31 and 81.69 per cent, respectively. The major loss component was reduction in milk yield, accounted Rs. 894.60 and Rs.510.00, represents 20.88 and 13.60 per cent of the total loss in crossbred cows and buffaloes, respectively. The cost of treatment was worked out to be Rs. 1313.80 in crossbred cows and Rs. 645.63 in buffaloes. The cost of medicine alone had constituted around 50 percent of total cost component, reflecting a tune of Rs. 675.60 in crossbred and Rs. 281.25 in buffaloes. The expenses were worked out to be Rs. 5598.80 in crossbred and Rs. 4394.38 in buffaloes per animal, which shows the expenses due to the disease, was comparatively higher in the crossbred cows. Movement of animals was ascertained to be the reason for spread of this disease in 80 per cent farm perception.

6 tables, 13 ref

027285   JALAJAKSHI K, REDDY Y R, PRASAD R V (Sri Venkateswara Veterinary Univ, Anantapur - 515 001, Email: jalajakshikopparthi@gmail.com) : Effect of feeding sweet sorghum silage with or without supplementation on nutrient digestibilities and performance in Nellore brown ram lambs. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 724-9.

The present experiment was designed to evaluate the sweet sorghum (SS) silage which is both grain and forage yielding type, with or without supplementation in a 120 d growth-cum-digestion trial to develop SS silage based feeding system for growing ram lambs. Twenty four ram lambs (11.33 ± 0.12 kg) were randomly divided into four groups of six each and fed SS silage, SS silage supplemented with dried subabul leaves, concentrate mixture and ground maize grain at 1 % of their live weight. Digestibility study was conducted at the end of the growth trail following collection period of 7 days. The CP content of SS silage was 8.44 %. ADG (g) was significantly (P < 0.01) higher in lambs fed SS silage with supplements than without supplements. Feed conversion ratio (DMI kg/kg gain) in Nellore growing ram lambs ranged from 6.56-9.02 and significant difference (P < 0.01) was observed among the experimental groups. Among the supplemental groups cost ()/kg live weight gain was significantly (P < 0.01) highest in ram lambs fed with concentrate followed by supplementation with dried subabul leaves and ground maize grain. No significant difference was found among the four groups for digestibility coefficients except for EE (P < 0.01). Lambs fed on sole SS silage had significantly lower DMI, DCP and TDN intake (P < 0.01) than those fed on SS silage with supplemental diets. Feeding sweet sorghum silage with supplements like top feeds, compound feed and maize grain at 1 % of their body weight improved performance, nutrient digestibility and met energy/ protein requirements in growing lambs. It is concluded that supplementation of SS silage with ground maize at 1 % of their live weight is considered to be economical for rearing of growing ram lambs.

4 tables, 34 ref

027284   KUMAR S, DAHIYA S P, MALIK Z S, PATIL C S, MAGOTRA A (Animal Genetics and Breeding, Lala Lajpat Rai Univ of Veterinary and Animal sciences, Hisar-125 004, Email: sandyverma5539@gmail.com) : Genetic analysis of performance traits in Harnali sheep. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(5), 643-8.

Harnali sheep is a new synthetic strain developed for superior carpet wool, better growth and adaptability. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the Harnali sheep for seven performance traits namely birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW), six month body weight (SMW) , yearling body weight (YBW), adult body weight (ABW), age at first lambing (AFL) and grease fleece weight (GFW) with a mixed model methodology. The overall least squares means for BW, WW, SMW, YBW, ABW, GFW and AFL were estimated as 3.51 ± 0.58 kg, 13.61 ± 0.22 kg, 19.45 ± 0.24 kg, 27.26 ± 0.31 kg, 37.90 ± 0.34 kg, 1662.65 ± 35.46 gm and 789.98 ± 10.40 days, respectively. The period of birth had significant effect on all the performance traits except GFW. The effect of sex was found significant on all the performance traits. The male lambs were significantly heavier than females at all ages. The effect of dam’s age at lambing was found non-significant on all the performance traits but dam’s weight at lambing significantly influenced all the performance traits and indicated heavier lambs born from heavier ewes. Heritability estimates were high for BW, WW, SMW, YBW, ABW and GFW as 0.68 ± 0.19, 0.49 ± 0.17, 0.65 ± 0.15, 0.44 ± 0.17, 0.42 ± 0.17 and 0.54 ± 0.17, respectively while moderate estimates was obtained for AFL as 0.38 ± 0.16. The phenotypic correlations of WW and SMW were significant and positive with BW, YBW and ABW with moderate to high in magnitude ranging from 0.22 ± 0.04 to 0.71 ± 0.07. The phenotypic correlation between BW and SMW was high and positive (0.71 ± 0.07). The genetic correlations among performance traits were low to high ranging from -0.03 ± 0.04 to 0.61 ± 0.12. Keeping in view the heritability and genetic correlations among performance traits it is concluded that SMW can serve as a good selection criterion in sheep at early age as it has high heritability and positive and high correlations with body weights at later ages and favourable correlation with age at first lambing.

3 tables, 43 ref

027283   KAUR L, SARDANA V (Agronomy Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Punjab -141 004, Email: loveleengill12@gmail.com) : Influence of sowing date and nitrogen schedule on growth and productivity of canola oilseed rape (Brassica napus). Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 250-4.

A field study was carried out at Ludhiana, Punjab during the winter (rabi) season of 2016–17, to ascertain the effect of dose and time of application of nitrogen on productivity of canola oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) sown on different dates. The experiment was conducted on loamy sand soil low in organic carbon and available nitrogen, in a split-plot design in 3 replications with 3 sowing dates (15 October, 30 October and 15 November) in the main plots and 7 treatments of dose (100 and 125 kg/ha) and time of application of nitrogen (2 or 3 splits) in subplots. Variety ‘GSC 7’ was sown at row spacing of 45 cm, with plant spacing within row of 10–12 cm. Crop sown on 15 October required conspicuously lesser number of days for emergence, experienced longer crop duration, attained significantly better growth, showed increased number of yield attributes, seed and stover yields than that sown on 30 October which in turn significantly outperformed the crop sown on 15 November for various growth and yield traits and yields. The 15 October-sown crop gave (2.48 t/ha) 4.1 % and 41.6 % higher seed yield than 30 October- and 15 November-sown crop respectively. Application of 125 kg N/ha resulted in 11.9 % higher seed yield (2.13 t/ha) than 100 kg N/ha through significant improvement in number of siliquae/plant and 1,000-seed weight. Effect of N application time on different growth and yield attributes was variable. Mean maximum seed (2.40 t/ha) and stover (7.92 t/ha) yields obtained with 125 kg/ha of N applied in 3 splits as 50 kg at sowing + 50 kg at initiation of stem elongation + 25 kg at initiation of flowering were at par with application of 125 kg/ha of N in 2 equal splits at sowing and initiation of stem elongation (2.36, 7.84 t/ha). Seed yield produced by the crop sown on 15 October (2.68 t/ha), 30 October (2.51 t/ha) and 15 November (2.02 t/ha) with 125 kg/ha of N applied in 3 splits (50 kg at sowing + 50 kg at initiation of stem elongation + 25 kg at initiation of flowering) was at par with its yield in respective sowing dates with application of 125 kg/ha of N (2.60, 2.46, 2.02 t/ha respectively) and 100 kg/ha of N (2.57, 2.46, 1.94 t/ha respectively) in 2 equal splits at sowing and at initiation of stem elongation.

1 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

027282   SINGH S M, SHUKLA A, CHAUDHARY S, BHUSHAN C, NEGI M S, MAHAPATRA B S (VCSG Uttarakhand Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Uttarakhand -246 123, Email: sumit38019@gmail.com) : Influence of irrigation scheduling and hydrogel application on growth and yield of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea). Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 246-9.

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 2013–14 at Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, to study the effect of irrigation scheduling and hydrogel levels on growth, yield attributes, yield, quality, net returns and water- use efficiency (WUE) of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj. & Cosson]. Growth parameters, yield attributes, seed yield, WUE and net returns were influenced with the application of irrigation and hydrogel. Yield attributes as well as yield were higher under irrigated conditions. All these parameters were observed higher with application of hydrogel at 5 kg/ha

1 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

027281   GUPTA R K, SINGH M K, DUTTA M, PRASAD S K (Banaras Hindu Univ, Uttar Pradesh -221 005, Email: manoj.agro@bhu.ac.in) : Agri-horti system compatibility and weed management for enhancing sesame (Sesamum indicum) production under Vindhyan region of eastern Uttar Pradesh. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 241-5.

An experiment was conducted during the rainy season of 2015 at South Campus, Banaras Hindu University, Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, to study the effect of 3 agri-horticultural systems, viz. guava (Psidium guajava L.), custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) and open field, and 4 weed-management practices (pendimethalin 750g a.i/ha + hand-weeding (30 DAS); imazethapyr 75g a.i/ha (PoE) + intercultivation (IC) (45 DAS); quizalafop ethyl 40 g a.i/ha (PoE) + IC (45 DAS); and weedy check) on sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Guava agri-horti system recorded higher plant height, biomass, capsule count and seed yield and also recorded less infestation of total weeds; whereas open field recorded the highest weed infestation. Pendimethalin recorded the highest weed-control efficiency (94.9 % on density basis and 92.6 % on biomass basis) at 40 DAS but reverse results observed after intercultivation as quizalofop-ethyl recorded significantly the lowest infestation of weed and recorded the highest plant biomass, capsule content, test weight and seed yield of sesame. In our study, guava proved a compatible agri-horti system for introduction of sesame and quizalofop ethyl 40 g a.i/ha (PoE) + IC (45 DAS) treatment as best for management of weeds and enhancing productivity.

3 tables, 13 ref

027280   DIWEDI A, JAT R A, REDDY K K (Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Gujarat -362 001, Email: rajatagron@gmail.com) : Organic manures and nutrient solubilizers for organic cultivation of summer groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) in black calcareous soil. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 237-40.

A field experiment was conducted during summer 2015 at Junagadh, Gujarat, to evaluate different nutrient sources and nutrient solubilizers for production of organic groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in black calcareous soil. Results revealed that, though recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) resulted in significantly higher growth and yield attributes, and yield of summer groundnut, but higher net returns were achieved with application of FYM @ 5 t/ha owing to premium price. Similarly, higher available P and K after harvesting was recorded with RDF but the maximum available soil N, S, DTPA-extracted Fe, Mn, Zn, and B, soil enzymatic activities (dehydrogenase, acid and alkaline phosphatase) at 90 days after sowing (DAS) were found with FYM @ 5 t/ha. Significantly maximum growth and yield attributes, pod yield, available nutrient in soil (N, P, K and S), and soil enzymatic activities at 90 DAS were observed with all-nutrient solubilizers @ 2.5 L/ha. However, significantly maximum DTPA-extracted Fe, Mn, Zn, and B were recorded with micronutrient solubilizers @ 2.5 L/ha.

2 tables, 7 ref

027279   SINGH A, DASS A, SINGH C V, DHAR S, SUDHISHRI S (ICAR-Central Rainfed Upland Rice Research Station, Jharkhand - 825 302, Email: anchal_iari@rediffmail.com) : Effect of planting methods, irrigation regimes and soil adjuvant on yield attributes, yield, nutrient uptake and economics in aerobic rice (Oryza sativa) in eastern India. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 234-6.

A field experiment was carried out in the rice (Oryza sativa L.) dominated area of eastern plateau and hill region of India during kharif 2016 to study the effect of irrigation schedules, planting methods and soil adjuvant on yield attributes, water-use efficiency (WUE), economics and nutrient uptake in aerobic rice. The experiment was laidout in a three-time replicated split-plot design, keeping combinations of 4-irrigation schedules, viz., irrigation at 0.9, 1.2, 1.5 IW:CPE (irrigation water requirement: cumulative pan evaporation) ratio and no-irrigation (rainfed), and 2-soil adjuvants (soil adjuvant applied and no-soil adjuvant) in the main-plots and 2-planting methods–conventional dry seeding at 20 cm row spacing and spot-sowing (dibbling of 4-seeds per hill at 20 × 15 cm), in the sub-plots. Irrigation at 1.5 IW:CPE ratio recorded greater magnitude of all yield attributes like panicles/m², field grains/panicle and 1,000-grain weight and enhanced grain yield by 37.3 % over rainfed crop, 23 % over crop irrigated at IW:CPE ratio 0.9 and 13.5 % over IW:CPE ratio 1.2. This irrigation schedule also resulted in the highest net return. However, WUE (water use efficiency) was highest with irrigation at IW:CPE 1.2. Spot-planting significantly improved yield attributes, yield, WUE, net return and nutrient uptake over conventional planting. The increase in grain yield and net returns due to spot-planting was more than 7 %.

1 table, 7 ref

027278   SEN S, KAUR R, DAS T K, SHIVAY Y S, SAHOO P M (ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi - 110 012, Email: sumansen.agri@gmail.com) : Bio-efficacy of sequentially applied herbicides on weed competition and crop performance in dry direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa). Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 230-3.

A field experiment was planned and executed in a randomized block design at New Delhi, during the rainy season of 2016, to evaluate the bio-efficacy of different pre- and post-emergence herbicides applied sequentially on weed dynamics and crop performance in direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.). The soil of the experimental plot was sandy loam in texture with pH 7.9, low in organic C (0.49 %) and available N (220 kg/ha), and medium in available P (16 kg/ha) and K (255 kg/ha). All the treatments involving pre- and post-emergence herbicides reduced the total weed density and weed biomass significantly. Season-long weedy condition reduced the grain yield to the extent of 81 % as compared with weed-free check. Sequential application of pendimethalin (1 kg a.i./ha) as preemergence followed by a mixture of penoxsulam + cyhalofop butyl (130 g a.i./ha) as post-emergence exhibited significant reduction in weed density and dry-biomass accumulation, resulting in a considerable increase in weedcontrol efficiency (84.49 %) and productivity (3.92 t/ha).

1 table, 12 ref

027277   ANKIT, SINGH V P, SINGH S P, SINGH T P (Agronomy Dep, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi - 110 012, Email: ankit.tiwari2601@gmail.com) : Critical period of crop-weed competition in aerobic rice (Oryza sativa) under irrigated ecosystem. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 227-9.

A field experiment was conducted during rainy season of 2015 at Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, to find out the critical period of crop-weed competition in aerobic rice (Oryza sativa L.). Yield losses due to crop-weed competition were most pronounced during the period from 15 to 45 days after sowing (DAS) and were ranged from 4.8 % to 76 %. Rice yield continued to decline as the duration of weed-competition increased beyond 15 DAS, as there was drastic reduction in the number of panicles/m² and grains/panicle that accounted for lower rice yield. Hence the period between 15 and 45 days in aerobic rice under irrigated situation is crucial to achieve 95 % of maximum possible yield (weed free) of aerobic rice.

1 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

027276   PRASAD R, SHIVAY Y S, KUMAR D (ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi - 110 012, Email: rajuma36@gmail.com) : Nitrogen and phosphorus recovery efficiency and agronomic experimentation with phosphorus. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 224-6.

Apparent phosphate recovery efficiency is generally determined by difference method (APRE_d ) and it requires that both P uptake value and P applied in kg P/ha. It is therefore suggested that the phosphate doses in agronomic experiments be planned, conducted and reported in kg P/ha in place of kg P₂O₅/ha as is being currently done. The suggested doses are 10, 20, 30, 40 kg P/ha or may be higher, depending upon the nature of experimentation. Also to eliminate the response to sulphur, which is present in single superphosphate, it is better to use DAP (diammonium phosphate) or TSP (triple superphosphate).

1 table, 22 ref

027275   JOHN K S, GEORGE J, SREEKUMAR J (Crop Production Div, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Kerala -695 017) : Soil test-based low input nutrient-management strategy: A decade experience in Cassava (Manihot esculenta) in Ultisols of Kerala. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 216-23.

The research experience under a long-term fertilizer experiment (LTFE) at ICAR–CTCRI, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala since 1977 revealed the strong and positive response of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) to manures and fertilizers. As a part of the LTFE, since 2005, the comparison made among 4 treatments, viz. soil test-based fertilizer recommendation (STBFR) of farmyard manure (FYM) as source of organic manure and chemical fertilizers as inorganic source, a highest dose of N : P : K @ 125 : 50 : 125 kg/ha + FYM @ 12.5 t/ha, present Package of Practices (PoP) recommendation of N : P : K @ 100 : 50 : 100 kg/ha + FYM @ 12.5 t/ha and absolute control (without any manures and fertilizers) for 10 years established the superiority of STBFR over PoP and the sustainability of cassava for continuous cultivation in the same field. The mean organic carbon, available P and K during these years was 1.106 %, 99.8 and 223.7 kg/ha, respectively, and the mean FYM, N : P : K recommendation evolved was 7 t/ ha, 83.3 : 0 : 70.6 kg/ha, respectively, with complete omission of P and lower rate of N and K than PoP. Under the absolute control, during these years, the tuber yield ranged from 6.58 to 18.00 t/ha with a mean tuber yield of 14.53 t/ha. The tuber quality parameters, viz. cyanogenic glucosides (HCN) responsible for bitterness of cassava tubers and starch content were significantly influenced by treatments with STBFR giving significantly the lowest HCN and highest starch content. The cost benefit analysis indicated a benefit : cost ratio of 1.959 for STBFR at par with PoP (2.087) with a saving of 54.3 and 51 % of input cost over the highest dose and PoP respectively.

1 illus, 5 tables, 31 ref

027274   MOHAPATRA A K B, PRADHAN K C (Orissa Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Odisha -761 001, Email: arayamohapatra@gmail.com) : Evaluation of productive, profitable and energy-efficient alternate cropping system options for pikka tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) on Alfisols of Odisha. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 211-5.

A field experiment was conducted during 2014–15 and 2015–16 at Berhampur, Odisha, to evaluate alternative cropping system to pikka tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.). The maximum tobacco cured leaf (1.64 t/ha) and net return of `66,462/ha were obtained in sole crop of tobacco which was significantly higher with 19.7 % and 34.1 % over maize (Zea mays L.) (green cob)– mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] cropping system. The highest total energy input (23,700 MJ /ha) was reported for cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)–sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Major source of energy added was through fertilizer ranged from 29.6 % in finger millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.]–horse gram [Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc.] to 46.2 % in cotton–mungbean cropping system, and human labour ranged from 12.7 % in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)–mung bean cropping system to 23.7 % in tobacco. The highest energy output was obtained from maize (green cob)–mungbean (1,79,530 MJ/ha), followed by cotton–mungbean (1,65,360 MJ/ha), maize (green cob)–horse gram (1,62,730 MJ/ha). Energy productivity was the highest in tobacco (0.13 kg/MJ), followed by maize (green cob)–mung bean (0.08 kg/MJ). The maize (green cob)–mung bean cropping system having highest energy-use efficiency (10.1) and energy output efficiency (1300 MJ/ha/day) and lowest specific energy is the next best option to pikka tobacco on Alfisols of Odisha .

3 tables, 14 ref

027273   PATEL V M, ARDESHNA R B, LODAM V A, BHAKTA R S (Navsari Agricultural Univ, Gujarat -396 450, Email: vinaypatel@nau.in) : Weed dynamics and productivity of irrigated winter (rabi) castor (Ricinus communis) under integrated weed-management practices. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 205-10.

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 2012–13 to 2014–15 on Vertisols of Navsari, Gujarat, to study the effect of integrated weed-management practices on weed dynamics and productivity of winter (Rabi) castor (Ricinus communis L.) under irrigated condition. The grassy weeds were dominant as compared to broad-leaf ones during the period of experimentation. Maintenance of weed-free condition [3 handweedings (HW) at 20, 40 and 60 days after sowing (DAS)] resulted in significant reduction in population of monocot, dicot and total weeds at 60 DAS. But, it remained at par with pre-emergence application of pendimenthalin 1.0 kg/ha + 2 hand-weedings at 40 and 60 DAS for density of monocots weeds. All the weed-management treatments recorded significantly lower weed dry matter at 120 DAS as compared to unweeded control and application of pendimenthalin 1.0 kg/ha as pre-emergence, followed by quizalofop-p-ethyl@ 0.05 kg/ha at 20 DAS as postemergence. Similarly, significantly more number of branches, spikes and capsules/plant, spike length and seed yield were also recorded with pre-emergence application of pendimenthalin 1 kg/ha, followed by either 2 HW at 40 and 60 DAS or 1 HW at 40 DAS which remained statistically at par with weed-free condition. The weed-free condition (3 hand-weedings at 20, 40 and 60 DAS) accrued higher net returns (`42.7 × 10<sup>3</sup>/ha), closely followed by pendimethalin 1 kg/ha (pre-emergence) + HW at 40 and 60 DAS (`42.2 × 10³/ha) and pendimethalin 1 kg/ha (preemergence) + HW at 40 DAS (`40.4 10³/ha). However, higher benefit: cost (BCR) was recorded with pendimethalin 1 kg/ha (PE) + HW at 40 DAS (2.41), followed by pendimethalin 1 kg/ha (PE) + HW at 40 and 60 DAS (2.33).

5 tables, 10 ref

027272   KABDAL P, SAXENA S C, MAHAPATRA B S (Govind Ballabh Pant Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Uttarakhand- 263 145) : Nitrogen and sulphur fertilization on yield and nutrient-uptake pattern of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) under Mollisols of Uttarakhand. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 201-4.

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) seasons of 2015-16 and 2016-17 at Pantnagar, district Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand, to study the effect of nitrogen and sulphur fertilization on yield and nutrientuptake pattern of ‘RGN 73’ Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj. & Cosson]. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with 2 factors, viz. Factor A (nitrogen 80, 120, 160 kg/ha) and Factor B (sulphur 0, 20, 40, 60 kg/ha). Each replication comprised 12 treatment combinations of different levels of nitrogen and sulphur and replicated thrice. Application of 120 kg N/ha in combination with 40 kg S/ha resulted in increased siliqua length, higher seeds/siliqua, 1,000-seed weight and ultimately the seed yield over the control (80 kg N/ha and 0 kg S/ha), but was found at par with 160 kg N/ha and 60 kg S/ha. Increasing the levels of nitrogen up to 160 kg/ha significantly increased the uptake of nitrogen (65.49, 39.68 kg/ha), phosphorus (14.29, 20.56 kg/ha), potassium (19.59, 97.44 kg/ha), sulphur (9.46, 14.07 kg/ha) and carbon (2482, 865 kg/ha) during both the years in the seed and stover of the crop compared with the control (80 kg N/ha). Among the different sulphur levels, 60 kg S/ha resulted in achieving significantly higher nutrient uptake in Indian mustard in 2015–16 and 2016–17. The cost of cultivation was found to be 2.10 % and 2.17 % lower with the combination 120 kg N/ha and 40 kg S/ha compared to 160 kg N/ha and 60 kg S/ha; hence it could be adopted for achieving higher yield levels and nutrient uptake in Indian mustard under Mollisols of Uttarakhand.

3 tables, 9 ref

027271   SINGH B, KUMAR A, ABROL V, SINGH A P, KUMAR J, SHARMA A (Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Jammu and Kashmir-181 133, Email: brinder24@gmail.com) : Effect of integrated plant nutrient management on pearlmillet (Pennisetum glaucum) productivity in rainfed subtropic Shiwalik foothills of Jammu and Kashmir. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 197-200.

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2013, 2014 and 2015 at Advanced Centre for Rainfed Agriculture, Rakh-Dhiansar, Jammu to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on productivity of pearlmillet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 8 treatments, replicated thrice. Application of 100 % recommended dose of NPK significantly improved the growth parameters, yield attributes, yield and nutrient uptake of pearlmillet which was statistically at par with other nutrient resource combinations like 75 % N inorganic + 25 % N through vermicompost, 75 % N inorganic + 25 % N through FYM and 50 % N inorganic + 50 % N through vermicompost. Application of 100 % NPK (RDF) also resulted in higher net returns (`34.9 × 10<sup>3</sup>/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (3.0) followed by 75 % inorganic + 25 % N through FYM (net returns, `27.4 × 10³/ha; B:C ratio, 2.4) with respect to pearlmillet productivity.

1 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

027270   JAKHAR R R, SHEKHAWAT P S, YADAV R S, KUMAWAT A, SINGH S P (Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural Univ, Rajasthan -334 006, Email: ruparamjakhar@gmail.com) : Integrated nutrient management in pearlmillet (Pennisetum glaucum) in north-western Rajasthan. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 192-6.

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2014 and 2015 on loamy sand soil of Bikaner, Rajasthan, to study the integrated nutrient management in pearlmillet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]. The experiment comprising of 8 treatments, viz. control, 50 % recommended dose of fertilizer (30 kg N + 20 kg P₂ O₅ + 10 kg K₂ O/ha), 50 % recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) + Azotobactor + phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria (PSB), 50 % RDF + 5 t FYM + Azotobactor, 50 % RDF + 5 t FYM + PSB, 50 % RDF + 5 t FYM + Azotobactor + PSB, 100 % RDF (60 kg N + 40 kg P₂ O₅ + 20 kg K₂ O/ha) and 100 % RDF + Azotobactor + PSB in randomized block design with 3 replications. Application of 100 % RDF + Azotobactor + PSB significantly increased plant height (182.2 cm), dry-matter accumulation (81.83 g/plant), total tillers (2.23), chlorophyll content (2.96 mg/g), effective tillers/plant (1.63), ear length (19.63), girth of ear (78.6 mm), grain weight/ear (6.19 g), 1,000-seed weight (7.73 g), grain (2.48 t/ha) and straw yields (4.34 t/ha), content of N (1.84 and 0.594 %), P (0.293 and 0.141 %) and K (0.735 and 2.28 %) in grain and straw and total uptake of N (71.5 kg/ha), P (13.4 kg/ha) and K (117.0 kg/ha). Organic carbon, available N, P and K status of soil after harvest of pearlmillet increased significantly with 100 % RDF + Azotobactor + PSB or 50 % RDF + 5 t FYM + Azotobactor + PSB. Significantly maximum net returns (³37,594/ha) with benefit: cost ratio (2.29) of pearlmillet was obtained under 100 % RDF + Azotobactor + PSB.

3 tables, 11 ref

027269   MEENA R P, TRIPATHI S C, SHARMA R K, CHHOKAR R S, CHANDER S, JHA A (ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Haryana -132 001, Email: rp.meena1@icar.gov.in) : Role of precision irrigation scheduling and residue-retention practices on water-use efficiency and wheat (Triticum aestivum) yield in north-western plains of India. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 186-91.

The field experiment was carried out in split-plot design during the winter (rabi) seasons of 2011–12 to 2014– 15 at Karnal, Haryana, to study the effect of precision irrigation scheduling and conservation agricultural practices on yield and water-use efficiency (WUE) of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) crop in north-western plains of India. The crop residue retention @ 2.5 t/ha resulted in significantly higher grain yield (5.73 t/ha) and generated a net return of (³42,645/ha) in comparison to no-crop residue retention (5.54 t/ha) and residue retention @ 5 t/ha (5.61 t/ha). Application of less volume of water at greater frequency via tensiometer-based irrigation scheduling helped conserve water. The tensiometer-based irrigation scheduling proved far superior to the other irrigation practices for the fact that irrigation scheduling was significantly affected based on SWP. The water-use efficiency under irrigation scheduled at 80 kPa was the highest (1.95 kg/m³ ) followed by 60 kPa (1.45 kg/m³ ) and irrigations scheduled at critical growth stages (1.11 kg/m³ ), though yield at 80 kPa was significantly lower than other 2 irrigation schedules. Irrigation scheduling at 60 kPa yielded higher and also was more efficient than irrigation at all critical growth stages.

2 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

027268   VERMA H P, SHARMA O P, KUMAR R, SHIVRAN A C, SAMMAURIA R, DUDWAL B L (Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture Univ, Rajasthan- 303 329, Email: hppersoya.p@gmail.com) : Quality and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum) as influenced by irrigation scheduling and organic manures. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 181-5.

A field experiment was conducted on loamy sand soil during 2 winter (rabi) seasons of 2014–15 and 2015–16 at Jobner, Rajasthan, to study the effect of irrigation scheduling and organic manures on growth, yield and quality of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The treatments consisted of 5 irrigation scheduling, i.e. I₁ (irrigation at critical stages), I₂ (0.9 Irrigation water (IW) : Cumulative pan evaporation (CPE) ratio), I₃ (0.6 IW : CPE ratio at vegetative phase + 0.8 IW : CPE ratio at reproductive phase), I₄ (0.6 IW : CPE ratio at vegetative phase + 1.0 IW : CPE ratio at reproductive phase) and I₅ (0.8 IW : CPE ratio at vegetative phase + 1.0 IW : CPE ratio at reproductive phase in main plots) and 4 organic manures, viz. control (M₀), FYM @ 15 t/ha (M₁ ), vermicompost (VC) @ 6 t/ha (M₂ ) and FYM @ 7.5 t/ha + VC @ 3 t/ha (M₃ ) in subplots were replicated 4 times in split-plot design. The pooled data results showed that irrigation applied at 0.9 IW: CPE ratio (I₂ ) recorded the maximum values of number of grains/ear and yield (grain and straw) proved significantly superior to I₁, I₄ and I₃ except treatment I₅ . The treatment I₂ exhibited the maximum consumptive use (395 mm). But the treatment I₅ attained significantly highest water-use efficiency (WUE) and excelled rest of the treatments. Irrigation applied at 0.9 IW : CPE ratio (I₂) resulted in the maximum chlorophyll content and was significantly superior to I₃ , I₄ and I₅ except treatment I₁ . However, that irrigation treatment did not to bring any significant variation in protein content and protein yield. Significantly higher number of grains/ear and yield (grain and straw) was recorded with FYM at 7.5 t/ha + VC @ 3 t/ha (M₃ ), being at par with VC @ 6 t/ha and superior to rest of the treatments. The highest consumptive use (409 mm) by crop was shown by the treatment M₀. The significantly highest WUE was recorded under M₃. The maximum chlorophyll and protein content were recorded under the treatment M₃ (FYM @ 7.5 t/ha + vermicompost @ 3 t/ha), which remained at par with M₂ , but significantly higher than M₀ and M₁ . However, treatment M₃ resulted in the significantly highest protein yield over rest of the treatments. Scheduling of irrigation to wheat either at 0.9 IW: CPE ratio throughout the growth or 0.8 IW: CPE ratio at vegetative phase + 1.0 IW: CPE ratio at reproductive phase brought about significantly higher yield (grain and straw) and quality parameter (chlorophyll content). So far as saving of irrigation water is concerned, irrigating the crop with 0.8 IW: CPE ratio at vegetative phase + 1.0 IW: CPE ratio at reproductive phase was most effective as the above schedule besides resulting almost equal yields also curtailed 1 irrigation with highest water-use efficiency. Manuring the crop either at 7.5 t FYM + 3 t/ha VC or 6 t/ha VC were equally effective treatments with regard to yield (grain and straw) and quality parameters (chlorophyll content, protein content and protein yield).

2 tables, 16 ref

027267   MONDAL T, MITRA B, DAS S (Agronomy Dep, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal -736 165, Email: bipmitra@yahoo.com) : Precision nutrient management in wheat (Triticum aestivum) using Nutrient Expert®: Growth phenology, yield, nitrogen-use efficiency and profitability under eastern sub-Himalayan plains. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 174-80.

A field experiment was conducted during the winter season (rabi) of 2014–15 and 2015–16 at Coochbehar, West Bengal, to assess the performance of Nutrient Expert® software on performance of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under both zero and conventional tillage. The experiment was designed in a split-plot design, with tillage options in main plot and nutrient management options in subplot. The treatment receiving 100 % N-P-K through Nutrient Expert (NE) software resulted in higher plant height (90.2 cm) and leaf-area index (LAI) (4.70 at 90 days after sowing) with increased biomass (9.10 t/ha). As indicated from attainment of various phonological dates, it was revealed that the crop duration was drastically reduced due to shorter vegetative and reproductive phase under noor minimum nutrient-application treatment. Nutrient-management options also had a significant effect on the yield components of wheat, viz. spikes/m² , grains/spike as well as 1,000-seed weight. Treatment based on Nutrient Expert® produced significantly higher number of spikes/m² (382), grains/spike (55.7), spike length (11.25 cm) as well as 1,000-seed weight (41.65 g) leading to the maximum yield (3.83 t/ha), 11 % higher over recommended dose of nutrient application; thus, reflecting its superiority under both conventional and zero tillage. The NE-based recommendation indicated the superiority towards greater agronomic nitrogen-use efficiency (16.74 kg grain/kg N), economic nitrogen-use efficiency (2.11 kg grain/`invested in N) as well as benefit: cost ratio (1.57).

6 tables, 14 ref

027266   HEMLATA, JOSHI J, MEENA S L, RATHORE A L, TANDON A, SONIT A (Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Chhattisgarh -492 012, Email: hemlatanirala@gmail.com) : Effect of crop establishment and irrigation methods on summer rice (Oryza sativa). Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 168-73.

Field experiment was conducted during summer (Kharif) seasons of 2012 and 2013 at the research cum instructional farm of Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh to evaluate the effect of crop establishment and irrigation methods on productivity and quality of summer rice (Oryza sativa L.). Out of the 3 methods of crop establishment, viz. direct-seeded rice (DSR), transplanted rice (TPR) and wet-seeded rice (WSR); TPR produced significantly higher grain yield (4.8 t/ha) which was statistically at par with direct-seeded rice (4.6 t/ha). Among the 4 methods of irrigation, viz. conventional irrigation, alternate wetting and drying, drip and sprinkler irrigation methods; drip irrigation recorded the maximum grain yield over the rest of the irrigation methods followed by recommended practice with respect to grain yield and quality parameters. TPR recorded maximum grain length which was statistically at par with DSR and minimum grain length was measured in WSR. Among methods of irrigation, drip irrigated crop attained maximum grain length which was statistically at par with recommended practice and conventional irrigation. Significant variations were observed in rice length due to crop establishment and irrigation methods. TPR and drip irrigation methods recorded the maximum rice grain length. TPR resulted in the highest net returns (³37.05 × 10³/ha) and benefit : cost ratio (1.34) among crop establishment methods; whereas among irrigation methods, drip irrigation recorded significantly higher net returns (³44.14 × 10³/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (1.77).

4 tables, 15 ref

027265   TRIPATHY S K, MOHAPATRA S, MOHANTY A K (Orissa Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Odisha- 768 025, Email: santanu_kt@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of acetolactate synthase inhibitor herbicides with 2, 4-D ethyl ester on complex weed flora in transplanted rice (Oryza sativa). Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 163-7.

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2015 and 2016 at Chiplima, Odisha, to evaluate acetolactate synthase herbicides with 2,4-D ethyl ester for control of complex weed flora in transplanted rice (Oryza sativa L.). Post-emergence application of bispyribac sodium @ 20 g/ha, penoxsulam @ 22.5 g/ha, chlorimuron + metsulfuron @ 4 g/ha in sole as well as in combination with 2, 4-D ethyl ester @ 200 g/ha, effectively controlled Marsilea quadrifolia L., Ludwigia perennis L. and Ammnia baccifera L. Weeds reduced the grain yield of rice by 37.6 %. Application of 2, 4-D ethyl ester alone was not effective against grassy weeds and aquatic fern (Marsilea quadrifolia L.) and bispyribac, penoxsulam and chlorimuron + metsulfuron were not much effective against Ammania baccifera and Cyperus difformis L. However, 2, 4-D ethyl ester in combination with bispyribac or penoxsulam was comparable to weed-free treatment in reducing the weed density. Tank-mix application of bispyribac sodium with 2, 4-D ethyl ester (20 + 200 g/ha) proved the most effective in minimizing Cyperus spp. and Ammania baccifera along with total control of Echinochloa spp., Marsilea quadrifolia and Ludwigia perennis. This treatment also resulted in the minimum total weed density (8.1/m²), biomass (11.1 g/m²) comparable to weedfree condition and the highest grain yield (5.97 t/ha), net returns (51.8 × 10³ `/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (1.4) .

3 tables, 9 ref

027264   DEVI M T, SINGH V K (Govind Ballabh Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Uttarakhand -263 145, Email: thoiagri@gmail.com) : Productivity and economics of field pea (Pisum sativum) and baby corn (Zea mays) intercropping systems as affected by planting pattern and weed management. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 157-62.

A field experiment was conducted during the consecutive winter seasons of 2011–12 and 2012–2013 to find out the effect of planting patterns and weed-management practices on yield attributes, yields and economics of field pea (Pisum sativum L.) + baby corn (Zea mays L.) intercropping system. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design, keeping 4 planting patterns as main plot and 4 weed-management practices as subplot with 3 replications. An intercropping of field pea with baby corn reduced the yield attributes of field pea, viz. pods/plant, grains/pod, 1,000-grain weight and grain yield/plant and cobs/plant of baby corn. Sole field pea recorded significantly higher grain (1.85 t/ha) and straw yields (2.90 t/ha) than yield obtained as a component crop in paired maize (30/60 cm) + field pea (2 : 2) and maize + field pea (1 : 1). Baby corn yield was similar in sole, paired (2 : 2) and 1 : 1 planting but significantly higher stover yield of baby corn (3.55 t/ha) was obtained from sole crop than other planting methods. Both the intercropping systems had significantly higher field pea-equivalent yield than sole crop of either field pea or baby corn. Hand-weeding 30 days after sowing (DAS), pre-emergence application of pendimethalin 1 kg/ha and post-emergence application of imazethapyr 50 g/ha (30 DAS) improved all the growth and yield parameters of field pea and baby corn than weedy check. Hand-weeding (30 DAS), pre-emergence application of pendimethalin 1 kg/ha and post-emergence application of imazethapyr 50 g/ha (30 DAS) resulted in significantly higher field pea-equivalent yield than weedy check. The highest gross return (80.71 × 10³ `/ha) and net returns (53.25 × 10<sup>3</sup> `/ha) were obtained under paired maize (30/60 cm) + field pea (2 : 2) and the highest benefit: cost ratio (2.15) was found in sole field pea (30 cm). Hand-weeding (30 DAS) resulted in the maximum value of gross returns (103.42 × 10³ `/ha), net returns (77.80 × 10<sup>3</sup> `/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (3.04).

4 tables, 15 ref

027263   GULERIA G, KUMAR N (Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Himachal Pradesh -176 062, Email: gunjan.guleria915@gmail.com) : Production efficiency, forage yield, nutrient uptake and quality of sorghum Sudan grass hybrid (Sorghum bicolor x Sorghum sudanense) + cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) intercropping system as influenced by sowing methods and varying seed rates of cowpea. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 150-6.

A field experiment was carried out at Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2012 and 2013, to study the effect of sowing methods and varying seed rates of cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] on forage yield of sorghum sudan grass hybrid [Sorghum bicolour (L.) Moench. × Sorghum sudanense (Piper) Stapf.] and cowpea. Broadcast sowing of sorghum sudan grass hybrid (SSGH) with 75 % recommended seed rate of cowpea (33.75 kg/ha) realized significantly higher plant height, shoot number, SSGH and cowpea dry-matter accumulation, total green forage yield (34.18 t/ha), dry forage yield (10.08 t/ha) and production efficiency. Broadcast sowing of SSGH with recommended seed rate of cowpea resulted in significantly higher N (195.17 kg/ha), P (21.52 kg/ha) and K (56.86 kg/ha) uptake. Further, broadcast sowing of SSGH with 75 % recommended seed rate of cowpea gave highest net returns ( 32,001/ha), benefit: cost ratio (1.57), SSGH-equivalent yield (SSGHEY) and was followed by broadcast sowing of SSGH with recommended seed rate of cowpea.

3 tables, 13 ref

027262   SINGH A K, TOMAR S K, SINGH D P (Narendra Deva Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Uttar Pradesh -272 193, Email: aksnduat@gmail.com) : Bio-efficacy of herbicides and their mixture on weeds and yield of rice (Oryza sativa) under rice-wheat cropping system. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 145-9.

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2014 and 2015 at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sohna, Siddarthnagar Uttar Pradesh, to assess the efficacy of bispyribac-Na, pretilachlor, penoxsulam, pyrazosulfuron, bispyribac-Na + ethoxysulfuron methyl, bispyribac-Na + almix (metsulfuron methyl 10 % + chlorimuron ethyl 10 % WP), pretilachlor followed by (fb) ethoxysulfuron methyl, pretilachlor fb almix, pyrazosulfuron fb manual weeding, pretilachlor + bensulfuron in transplanted rice (Oryza sativa L.). The highest grain yield (5.2 t/ha) was recorded in weed-free plot, being at par with bispyribac-Na + almix (25 g + 4 g/ha), pretilachlor fb almix (750 g and 4 g/ha), pyrazosulfuron (20 g/ha) fb manual weeding. Uncontrolled weed growth caused 41.9 % reduction in the crop yield compared to weed-free treatment. Tank-mix application of bispyribac-Na + almix, pretilachlor fb almix, pyrazosulfuron fb manual weeding and bispyribac-Na + ethoxysulfuron methyl (25 g + 18.75 g/ha) proved better, showing a mean increase in grain yield of 9.54 % than mean of alone application of bispyribac-Na, pretilachlor, penoxsulam (22.5 g/ha) and pyrazosulfuron (20 g/h). Tank-mix application of bispyribac-Na + almix being at par with application of pretilachlor fb almix reduced the weed density and weed dry weight compared to rest of the herbicides tested. Application of bispyribac-Na + almix, remaining at par with pretilachlor fb almix, pretilachlor fb ethoxysulfuron methyl, bispyribac-Na + ethoxysulfuron methyl (25 + 18.75 g/ ha) at 25 days after transplanting (DAT) was the most effective in enhancing yield attributes and grain yield. The highest net return ( 44,073/ha) and benefit : cost ratio (1.97) were also obtained using bispyribac-Na + almix. Application of penoxsulam (22.5 g/ha) at 12 DAT recorded the lowest weed-control efficiency and grain yield amongst the herbicides tested which was at par with alone application of bispyribac-Na, pretilachlor, pyrazosulfuron. Application of bispyribac-Na + almix 25 + 4 g/ha at 25 DAT, though on a par with pretilachlor fb almix and pyrazosulfuron resulted significantly higher N, P and K uptake than rest of the herbicides tested and weedy check.

3 tables, 6 ref

027261   AULAKH C S, SINGH H, WALIA S S, PHUTELA R P, SINGH G (Punjab Agricultural Univ, Punjab- 141 004, Email: aulakhcs@pau.edu) : Evaluation of nutrient sources for organic production of rice (Oryza sativa)- wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system in north-west India. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 137-44.

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) season 2009 to winter (rabi) season 2011-12 at Ludhiana to evaluate different sources of nutrition for organic production of rice (Oryza sativa L.)–wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with main plots consisting of recommended chemical fertilizers (RDF), farmyard manure (FYM₂₀₀) to supply 200 kg N/ha, FYM₁₀₀ to supply 100 kg N/ha and unfertilized control. The subplots included jeevamrit as soil application, jeevamrit as soil and foliar application and control plot without jeevamrit. Rice grain yields with FYM₂₀₀ and FYM₁₀₀ were lower by 13.3 and 17.7 %, respectively, than RDF during the Ist year and were statistically at par during subsequent years. The reduction in wheat grain yield during 1st year was 34.6 and 40.5 % with FYM₂₀₀ and FYM₁₀₀, respectively, as compared to RDF. The corresponding reductions during 2nd and 3rd year were 18.6, 36.2 and 11.7, 29.5 % respectively. The FYM₂₀₀ proved significantly better than FYM₁₀₀ in wheat. Soil organic carbon improved with FYM at both the rates as compared to RDF. The soil microbial population increased with application of jeevamrit, but it did not influence the productivity of the crops. Thus, rice yields at par with RDF could be obtained with both the FYM levels of FYM₁₀₀ and FYM₂₀₀ from 2nd year onwards; however, wheat yields even with FYM₂₀₀ remained lower than RDF in 3rd year also. Jeevamrit was not effective in influencing the grain yield of rice and wheat, indicating its inability to contribute to the nutrition of these crops.

7 tables, 16 ref

027260   BAGHEL J K, DAS T K, RANA D S, PAUL S (ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi -110 012, Email: jitagri@gmail.com) : Effect of weed control on weed competition, soil microbial activity and rice productivity in conservation agriculture-based direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa)- wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system. Indian J Agron 2018, 63(2), 129-36.

A field experiment was carried out during 2012–13 and 2013–14 at New Delhi, to evaluate the effects of weed control options on weed interference, microbial activity and direct-seeded rice (DSR) productivity in a conservation agriculture (CA)-based rice (Oryza sativa L.)–wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori et Paol) cropping system. The CA practices such as brown manuring, mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek] residue (MR) and rice-residue (RR) retention, zero tillage (ZT) significantly influenced weed density, microbial activity and crop yield. Grassy weeds were more dominant among the weeds. The DSR practices encountered more weed infestations than transplanted rice (TPR). The sequential applications of pendimethalin @ 1.5 kg/ha as pre-emergence, and bispyribac-Na @ 25 g/ha at 25 days after sowing/ transplanting (DAS/ DAT) as post-emergence resulted in better control of weeds and higher weed-control efficiency (WCE), but this combination plus 1 hand-weeding (HW) at 45 DAS was the best weed-control option in DSR. Higher WCE of 50 % and 52 % obtained from this treatment respectively, in 2012 and 2013. These herbicides applications slightly reduced microbial activity at 40 DAS. Soil microbial activity positively responded to CA practices. Soil-dehydrogenase activity (DHA) and microbial biomass carbon (MBC) were significantly higher in DSR than TPR. The rice yields were comparable between the TPR – ZTW and DSR + MR – ZTW + RR – SMB + wheat residue (WR) systems, but higher than in other CA-based DSR-wheat systems. Treatment DSR + MR – ZTW + RR – SMB + WR provided higher grain yield 4.41 t/ha and 4.53 t/ha in 2012 and 2013, respectively.

1 illus, 5 tables, 17 ref

027255   PANDEY S K, DASGUPTA T, RATHORE A, ANILKUMAR VEMULA A (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics, Patancheru, Email: isarita06@gmail.com) : Relationship of parental genetic distance with heterosis and specific combining ability in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) based on phenotypic and molecular marker analysis. Biochem Genet 2018, 56(3), 188–209.

The genetic distance analysis for selection of suitable parents has been established and effectively used in many crops; however, there is dearth of conclusive report of relationship of genetic distance analysis with heterosis in sesame. In the present study, an attempt was made to estimate the associations of genetic distances using SSR (GDSSR), seed-storage protein profiling (GDSDS) and agromorphological traits (GDMOR) with hybrid performance. Seven parents were selected from 60 exotic and Indian genotypes based on genetic distance from clustering pattern based on SSR, seed-storage protein, morphological traits and per se performance. For combining ability analysis, 7 parents and 21 crosses generated from 7 9 7 half diallel evaluated at two environments in a replicated field trial during pre-kharif season of 2013. Compared with the average parents yield (12.57 g plant⁻¹ ), eight hybrids had a significant (P \ 0.01) yield advantage across environments, with averages of 26.94 and 29.99 % for better-parent heterosis (BPH) and mid-parent heterosis (MPH), respectively, across environments. Highly significant positive correlation was observed between specific combining ability (SCA) and per se performance (0.97), while positive non-significant correlation of BPH with GDSSR (0.048), and non-significant negative correlations with GDMOR (− 0.01) and GDSDS (− 0.256) were observed. The linear regressions of SCA on MPH, BPH and per se performance of F1s were significant with R² value of 0.88, 0.84 and 0.95 respectively. The present findings revealed a weak association of GDSSR with F1’s performance; however, SCA has appeared as an important factor in the determination of heterosis and per se performance of the hybrids. The present findings also indicated that parental divergence in the intermediate group would likely produce high heterotic crosses in sesame.

4 illus, 6 tables, 42 ref

027227   SHAILESH K, PUROHIT P, PATEL, DEB S (Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural Univ, Sardarkrushinagar - 385 506, Email: debsushma@gmail.com) : Screening of pigeonpea varieties/genotypes against pod bug, Clavigralla gibbosa Spinola in North Gujarat. J Food Legume 2018, 31(2), 131-3.

A field experiment was carried out to evaluate various pigeonpea varieties/ genotypes for their reaction to pod bug, Clavigralla gibbosa Spinola during the year 2012- 13 at Center of Excellence for Research on Pulses, S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat. Total sixteen varieties/genotypes viz., GT 1, GT 101, Banas, UPAS 120, Vaishali, ICPL 87, IPS 4, IPS 10, IPS 16, IPS 51, SKNP 207, SKNP 224, SKNP 610, SKNP 615, SKNP 616 and BP 108 were screened for their reaction to C. gibbosa based on pod bug population. Among the varieties/genotypes, IPS 16 (2.78, 1.24 and 0.56), IPS 4 (3.62, 1.32 and 0.75) and ICPL 87 (4.17, 1.87 and 0.82) recorded minimum number of eggs, nymphs and adults of C. gibbosa, respectively and hence were proved to be less preferred pigeonpea varieties/ genotypes.

1 table, 10 ref

027226   SHARMA O, KUMARI M (Plant Pathology Div, Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute, Jaipur- 302 018, Email: sharmaom57@gmail.com) : Management of dry root rot of chickpea through bio agents and soil amendments. J Food Legume 2018, 31(2), 128-30.

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the most important pulse crops of India. Occurrence of root rot disease has become a major constraint in recent years for successful and profitable cultivation of chickpea. The efficacy of various Bio agents viz. .Tricoderma viride, T. harzianum, T. virens, B. subtillus and P. fluorescens through seed treatment and soil amendments with soil application were evaluated against Rhizoctonia bataticola, Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) Goid causing dry root rot disease of chickpea. All the bio agents and soil amendments were found significantly inhibitory to the fungal growth as compared to control in pot house conditions. Antagonistic effect of 3 Trichoderma spp. (T. harzianum and T. viride and T. virus), Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtillus against the dry root rot disease-causing fungus Rhizoctonia bataticola, were studied inpot conditions. Studies of relative efficacy of organic/soil amendments were also done in pot house conditions. In the bio agents T. Viridae showed minimum disease incidence i.e 25.08, 26.55 followed by T. harzianum 30.21, 33.22 in both the years 2014-15, 2015-16. Among the soil amendments mustard cake showed minimum disease incidence i.e 33.85, 37.10 was found most effective in both the years of testing followed by wheat straw with the (41.98) (45.43) per cent disease incidence, respectively. Thus, these findings indicated that biological control using bio agents and soil amendments can be exploited in the framework of integrated disease management to manage the dry root rot of chickpea.

3 tables, 9 ref

027225   GEETHANJALI D, RANI M S, JAYALAKSHMI V (Agricultural Coll, Mahanandi, Andhra Pradesh, Email: madugula.sudharani@yahoo.com) : Correlation analysis of seed yield and it's attributing traits in Kabuli chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) genotypes. J Food Legume 2020, 31(2), 123-7.

Thirty large seeded kabuli chickpea accessions were evaluated in a randomized block design with three replications under rainfed and irrigated conditions during rabi, 2016-17 at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Nandyal, Andhra Pradesh. Under rainfed condition, seed yield exhibited positive and significant association with days to 50 per cent flowering, number of primary branches per plant, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per plant, shoot biomass per plant and harvest index. However, under irrigated condition, days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per plant, shoot biomass per plant and harvest index showed significant positive correlation with seed yield. Hence, these traits could be considered as the major yield contributing factors in their respective environment and more emphasis may be given towards selection of these traits for improvement of seed yield in chickpea.

2 tables, 19 ref

027224   JAIN L K, PAREWA H P, NANDAN B (Agriculture Coll, Rajasthan- 306 902, Email: jainlokesh74@gmail.com) : Productivity and profitability analysis of clusterbean at farmers field in Barmer District in arid western arid zone of Rajasthan. J Food Legume 2018, 31(2), 119-22.

Front line demonstrations on clusterbean (Cv. RGC 936) were carried out at Farmers field in Barmer district of Rajasthan to evaluate the performance of variety from Kharif 2011 to Kharif 2013. The increase in grain yield with the adoption of improved technology was in the range of 37.6 to 44.0 percent in different years. Similarly, technology index were declined from 39 percent in Kharif 2011 to 21 percent in Kharif 2013 which showed feasibility of variety. The economics showed that approximate by five times higher benefits was recorded with the adoption of improved packages over traditional cultivation except during 2012 in view of sudden increase in prices of grain of crop. Such performance was contributed due to scientific management and monitoring of demonstrations of proven technologies of clusterbean and could be of help to enhance the income levels of the farming community.

4 tables, 10 ref

027223   KUMAR S, SINGH S, BHAT A, DWIVEDI S, JYOTIKACHROO (Agricultural Economics and ABM Div, SKUAST, Jammu- 180 009, Email: singh_sp073@yahoo.com) : Resource use efficiency in rajmash production by hill farmers of Jammu region of J & K state. J Food Legume 2018, 31(2), 117-8.

The Hill farming is supposed to be very fragile due to its unique ecological entity and topographical diversities. The hills are rich in resources for horticultural crops as well as for some pulses. The present study was designed to measure resource use efficiency in rajmash production in Bhaderwah and Bhalla blocks of Doda district of J & K state. The input-output data was taken from the sample of 100 rajmash growing farmers and Cobb-Douglas type of production function was used to work out the efficiency of different resources. The results revealed that human labour, seed, manure & fertilizers and plant protection chemicals had the elasticities of 0.105, -0.388, 0.013 and 0.062, respectively and were statistically significant. The marginal value productivity were (MVP) in respect of manure &fertilizers (8.981) and plant protection chemicals (11.344) was more than unity level and for human labour (0.872) it was less than unity level. In case of machine labour (-2.275) and seed (-9.772), MVP values were found to be negative, indicated more than optimum use of these two resources.

2 tables, 5 ref

027222   KUMAR H, DEVRAJ, BHATT S, KUMAR R (ICAR-Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Email: rushtohemant@rediffmail.com) : Growth and decomposition analysis of pulses production in India. J Food Legume 2018, 31(2), 114-6.

Pulses are grown all over the world and account for almost 79 mha in an area and 71 mt of production. India ranks first and contributes more than 25 % to the global pulse production annually. The time series of secondary data on area, production, and yield of pulses from 1950-51 to 2014- 15 were broadly partitioned into seven decades in order to demonstrate the trend of pulse production in more convincing and simple manner in the present study. The farmer could achieve these increasing mainly introduction to resistant varieties against different diseases and insects-pests, better management and matching with improved production and protection technologies. It has also been observed that the growth of area, production, and yield for pulses registered positive during overall period. Decomposition analysis was performed and the percentage contribution of area, yield and their interaction on pulses production for each decades and the overall period was also estimated. The yield effect has the largest contribution in pulses for overall period. Response to change in production because of effect in area is evident during fifties, sixties, and ninties. In seventies and eighties, the change in production is due the reduction in yield effect. The interaction of area and yield is not much except in the ninties.

3 illus, 4 ref