023754   SHARMA R, BHARDWAJ S (Horticulture Dep, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: rupali_flori@rediffmail.com) : Effect of mulching on soil and water conservation. Agric Rev 2017, 38(4), 311-5.

The need to increase food production and improve the quality of our environment has prompted a search for materials to control wind and water erosion. This paper is a review of research and development associated with application, methods, and amounts of mulch types-crop residues, chemical soil stabilizers, and feedlot wastes (manure)-required to control wind erosion. An effective wind erosion control treatment is one that can resist a 38.0 m/s wind as measured at 15.2 m. Mulching has becomes an important practice in modern field production. Mulch paper reduces the application of chemical fertilizer and herbicide, weed control and maintain the land temperature. This article reviews the published research on mulches and discusses the opportunities that they solving the problem in agriculture.

49 ref

023753   LOGANATHAN V, NANDHINI D U, LATHA K R (Agronomy Dep., Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: vimal.tnau@gmail.com) : Effect of drip fertigation on pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp]. Agric Rev 2017, 38(4), 304-10.

Food legumes are important source of protein in the diets of a large section of vegetarian population in the developing countries in general and India in particular. Even though India has the largest area under pulses in the world, the average productivity is relatively low and the production is not adequate to meet the demand. For increasing the productivity of the pulses key inputs viz., water, seeds and nutrients need to be applied in the right quantity to enhance the production. The water use efficiency is increased through micro irrigation in the form of drips and sprinklers. Drip irrigation can be considered as an efficient irrigation system since it causes wetting of the soil only and maintain optimum moisture content in the root zone. It also offers several water management advantages like timely application of water and water supply. Micro irrigation provides many unique agronomic, water and energy conservation benefits that address many of the challenges facing irrigated agriculture, now and in the future.

56 ref

023752   CHANDRA S, KAMBOJ M L, KUMARI A, KUMAR A, Rather HA (ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal-132 001, Email: subhashchandra20july@gmail.com) : Potentiating immunity of diary animals during transition period through herbs. Agric Rev 2017, 38(4), 297-303.

India has a rich diversity of medicinal plants and traditional knowledge on herbal medicine to treat the animals has both curative and preventive roles. Immunity of the animals affects the is production potential. Strengthening of non-specific immunity of the parturient animals can be used as an alternative approach to overcome the incidence of diseases in the peri and postpartum period where in these animals are more prone. One of the promising technologies is the use of immunomodulators to boost the immunity of animals during the transition period. Immunomodulators can be of natural or synthetic origin, which helps in boosting up the immunity for overcoming stress-related ailments, inhibition of reactive oxygen species generation and scavenging of free radicals to ensure the general wellbeing of animals. In the recent years, several different approaches have been examined to investigate the effect of various herb extracts and minerals as immunopotentiator separately. In literature many plants have been listed having immunomodulatory effect and some of them have been proved to have active principles with immunomodulatory, antioxidant, analgesic, antipyretic and antimicrobial properties. The present compilation deals with some of such medicinal plants like Anethum graveolens (Sowa), Elettaria cardamomum (Bari elaichi/Cardamom), Foeniculum vulgare (Saunf), Trachyspermum ammi (Ajwain), Zingiber officinale (Sundh) and Trigonella foenun- graceum etc.

101 ref

023751   RANI B, SHARMA V K (Rajendra Agricultural Univ, Samastipur-848 125, Email: bibha9rani@gmail.com) : Transcriptome profiling: Methods and applications. Agric Rev 2017, 38(4), 271-81.

Global transcriptional profiling is a powerful tool that can expose expression patterns to define cellular states or to identify genes with similar expression patterns. In recent years, transcriptome profiling has been widely used to understand the genetic regulation of a particular cell type. Transcriptome is defined as a full range of messenger Ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecule expressed by an organism. In other words a transcriptome represents the small percentage of genetic code that is transcribed into RNA molecules. It can offer valuable information on the significant biological processes behind the maintenance of the functionality of the cell. Transcriptomics provides fundaments for more definitively designed studies and guidance to select the genes for functional studies. The technology for the study of the transcriptome is not dependent on any prior knowledge of the genes expressed in the cells. However, with regards to the administration and interpretation of the enormous data provided by transcriptome profiling challenges remain. Four methods have been reviewed here that is, Microarray technology, Serial Analysis of Gene Expression (SAGE), RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) and Massively Parallel Signature Sequencing (MPSS). The use of these technologies to analyse the expressed transcripts in several prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes has revealed the high complexity of transcriptomes.

6 illus, 4 tables, 41 ref

023750   SIVAGAMY K, CHINNUSAMY C, PARASURAMAN P (Centre of Excellence in Millets, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Athiyandal-606 603, Email: ksivagamy@yahoo.com) : Weed management options in transgenic stacked and non transgenic maize (Zea mays) hybrids. Agric Rev 2017, 38(4), 245-59.

Weeds are generally hardy species having fast growth, deep root system and capable of competing very efficiently with cultivated crops for the available resources and adversely affect the crop growth and yield. Weed management systems that rely on post emergence control assume that crops can tolerate competition for certain periods of time without suffering yield losses. Initial slow growth particularly at early crop growth stages and wider plant spacing of maize crop encourages fast and vigorous growth of weeds. It is of paramount importance that, competition from weeds must be minimized to achieve optimum yield. Among the different weed control methods, chemical method bears many advantages in suppressing weed growth and to get healthy and vigorous crop stand. Non-selective herbicide molecules with a variety of mode of action were discovered, developed and marketed for successful weed control programme.

137 ref

023749   KUMAR S, RAI R (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, U.P) : Cluster front line demonstration of lentil under moisture stress condition of Kanpur Dehat. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 518-20.

The study through cluster front line demonstration was carried out during autumn season with the objective to increase the production of pulses and replace the old cultivars. The soil of operational area was sandy clay loam, having low fertility status. The improved cultivar KLB-320 of lentil was tested with local genotype which is familiar in the locality. The cv. KLB-320 was planted in the first fortnight of November 2015 and harvested after 120-125 days of sowing in first fortnight of March, 2016. The cultivar KLB-320 gave grain yield by 15.60 q/ha, which was higher over local check by a margin of 3.45 q/ha. The growth and yield traits were concordant to the seed yield of lentil. The maximum growth and yield parameters were recorded under cv. KLB-320 on degraded soil in rainfed situation.

1 table, 11 ref

023748   RAI R, KUMAR S (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, U.P) : Frontline demonstration of indian mustard is a path of prosperity for resource poor farmers in rainfed area. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 509-11.

The study was laid out during 2015-16 at ruined area, situated in Kanpur Dehat. The soil of pilot area is sandy loam, having low fertility status. The improved cultivar Pitambari of Indian mustard was tested with local check in cluster front line demonstration. The main objective of cluster front line demonstration was to increase the productivity of Indian mustard and replace the seed of old cultivars. The cultivar Pitambari was sown in the first week of November with full recommended package of practices. The cultivar Pitambari gave yield by 13.80 q/ha, which was higher over local check by a margin of 5.45 q/ha or 65.30 percent. The growth and yield trait were concordant to seed yield. 

1 table, 12 ref

023747   SINGH R (Agribusiness Economics and Policies Dep, Anand Agricultural Univ, Gujarat) : Environmental degradation and agricultural sustainability. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 491-7.

Environmental degradation means degradation or deterioration of the environment as a result of degradation of soil, water and air resources, destruction of habitats and ecosystems, etc. Our activities in agriculture have led to a decline in soil quality at several places. The anthropogenic activities in agriculture have also led to climate change, in the form of rising temperatures, unusual rainfall, drought and other havocs which impact food availability for not only today but also tomorrow. In order to achieve the desired yields to meet the needs of ever growing population; ensure food and nutritional security to all, Indian agriculture should move towards wide adoption of mix of technologies like biotechnology, precision farming, magnetic agriculture, vertical farming, micro irrigation systems, nanotechnology, etc, which help in enhancing yield without disturbing the soil health, arrest environmental degradation and achieve agricultural sustainability.

2 tables, 19 ref

023746   PATEL N, KUMAR M, GUPTA N (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, M.P) : Constraints in adoption of integrated pest management practices by cotton growers in Nimar region of Madhya Pradesh. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 487-90.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a pest management system that in the context of the associated environment and the population dynamics of the pest species, utilizes all suitable techniques and methods in as compatible manner as possible and maintain the pest population at level below these causing economic injury. This approach has been globally accepted for achieving sustainability in agriculture and maintaining the agro-eco-system. Cotton being a major commercial crop of the Nimar region in Madhya Pradesh and keeping in view the importance of IPM to manage the insects and pests of cotton crop, the present study was carried out to assess the present status of adoption of IPM practices by cotton growers in Barwani district of Nimar region. The multistage sampling technique was employed to select 140 respondents from seven blocks of the district for present study. The perusal of data indicated that the majority of respondents adopted recommended chemical control measure (95.33%). The great majority of the farmers are using chemicals to protect their cotton crop along with other cultural practices like grazing by sheep and goat in cotton field after last picking (79.16%), use of certified seed (85.66%) and use of recommended dose of fertilizers (66.33%). The findings also indicated that the majority of cotton growers faced problems that inadequacy of labours and high wage rate for undertaking the manual work like handpicking (87.85%), adoption of biological control measures and mechanical control (82.14%). The lack of knowledge about yellow sticky traps for control of white fly (74.28%), lack of knowledge about use of pheromone trap (82.14%), lack of knowledge about intercropping of cotton with cowpea/maize/lady finger as trap crop (73.57%), lack of knowledge about use of bio-agent (58.57%) and lack of knowledge about procedure of preparing extract of neem seed kernel (52.14%) were the major constraints in adoption of IPM programme.

2 tables, 6 ref

023745   SIDHU R K (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Punjab) : Assessment of knowledge level of farm women regarding garment construction. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 482-6.

The present study was conducted to assess the knowledge level of those farm women who had taken trainings from KrishiVigyan Kendra Mansa on garment construction. In these trainings programmes, total 108 farm women and rural girls were participated. These 108 trainees were interviewed before training and after training through questionnaire and collected data were analysed to assess their knowledge level. It was observed that before training the respondents had no knowledge regarding type of fabric- silk, taking body measurement, see print direction and layout of different parts of drafting on cloth. After getting the training on garment construction participants shows no knowledge gap or very less knowledge gap majority of the participants to gain knowledge about every aspect of stitching a garment. Stitching of suits at home on demand based and earning Rs. 3000-4000 per month. The 20.3 per cent participants do stitching of garments of boutiques at home like making salwars, doing hemming and attach laces on duppatas earning 3500-4500 per month, 11.1 per cent participants opening stitching schools in different villages and earning 5000-6000 per month and rest 7.4 per cent participants doing job in boutiques and earning 4000 per month. 

4 tables, 4 ref

023744   KULKARNI M (Agricultural Technology Information Center, Parbhani) : Comparative study of cognitive development of ICDS and non-ICDS children (3-6 years). Agric update 2017, 12(3), 473-6.

The present research has been conducted with the objectives of comparing the cognitive development of ICDS and non-ICDS children (3-6 years) to find out the mean age at which the cognitive abilities viz. verbal, identification, recognition, comparison / discrimination, achievement/ performance, thinking, memory and perceptual abilities- auditory discriminations, olfactory discrimination and taste discrimination develop and also to study the role of non-formal pre-school education in the cognitive development of children. 60 ICDS children were selected from Nanded district, Marathwada region, Maharashtra State, using purposive sampling technique. For data collection Cognitive Development Scale was used. Results of the study revealed that cognitive abilities are increasing with an increase in the age of children and there is a significant difference in the ICDS and non-ICDS children. The overall cognitive ability of children from 3 to 6 years has increased with age and these abilities were already developed to some extent between 3-3 12 years. Non-formal pre-school education component of ICDS has played a vital role in enhancing the cognitive abilities of children. As results are more inclined towards ICDS children. 

1 table, 10 ref

023743   POTE N S, MOKHALE S U, KADTE R D (Extension Education Dep, Shri Shivaji Agriculture Coll, Amravati, Email: shekharmokhale17@gmail.com) : Knowledge of goat husbandry practices by goat keepers in Amravati district. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 468-72.

The present study was conducted in Amravati district of Maharashtra state. The sample was drawn from the three takula viz., Chandur bazaar, Morshi, Chandur Railway where functional goat keepers in larger numbers were in existence. Thus, 80 goat keepers were selected which constituted the sample respondents for the present study. Data were collected by personally interviewing the respondents with the help of pre-tested structured interview schedule in face to face situation. Collected data were tabulated. Correlation and regression analysis for interpretation of the findings were calculated. Two hypotheses were set for the study and were tested for acceptance or rejection.Results obtained after analysis were summaries as below. In case of personal profile of the goat keepers revealed that majority (58.75%) of the goat keepers were middle in age, over (11.25%) were illiterate. Majority (66.25%) of goat keepers belonged to medium family size (4 to 6 member) with majority of (56.25%) nuclear family type. Majority (70.00%) of the goat keepers had medium herd size (between 16 to 27 goats) having goat keeping + landless labour occupation (56.25%) with annual income upto Rs. 50,000. Nearly half of the (42.05%) of goat keepers had low social participation, moderate (72.05%) access to the infrastructural facilities. Majority of the goat keepers had knowledge about extensive method of rearing, housing management, goat insurance, duration of feeding of colostrum. However, majority of goat keepers lacked knowledge about selection of descript breeds of goat, heat symptoms, diseases of goats, feeding of concentrates to milking goat and breeding buck. Results of the relational analysis revealed that age, education, family type, family size, herd size, occupation, annual income, social participation and infrastructural facilities were significantly associated with knowledge of goat keepers. 

4 tables, 5 ref

023742   KOLAMBKAR R A (Agricultural Economics Dep, Coll of Agriculture, Nesari, Email: Kolambkar.rachana14@gmail.com) : Resource productivity and resource use efficiency in coconut production. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 465-7.

Investigation was carried out during the year 2013-14. In all 48 cashewnut growers were randomly selected from sixteen villages of two tehsils in South-Goa district of Goa State. Cross sectional data were collected from coconut growers with the help of pretested schedule by personal interview method. Data were related to coconut output and inputs like machine labour, manure, fertilizers, irrigation and family human labour as resources. Cobb-Douglas production function was fitted to the data. The result revealed that, regression co-efficient of area under coconut was 0.383 followed by that of irrigation (0.044). In next order, regression co-efficient of manure was 0.048. Regression co-efficient of hired human labour, nitrogen and family human labour were positive but non-significant. Marginal product of area under coconut was 91.77 quintals followed by that of machine labour (1.418 9), manure (0.1789) and irrigation (0.003) and so on. MVP to price ratio with respect to machine labour was 2.65 followed by area under coconut was 2.24, nitrogen (1.85), irrigation (1.42) and manure (1.24). Hence, preference might be given to increase machine labour on priority basis in coconut cultivation. Optimum resource use of area under cotton was 0.85 hectares and that of irrigation was 2121.16 m.

1 table, 6 ref

023741   SINGH J, SINGH D (Extension Education Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Punjab, Email: iamjagmitbrar@gmail.com) : Socio-economic correlates of insecticide usage by the Bt cotton farmers of Punjab. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 459-64.

The present study was undertaken to analyse insecticide use pattern by the Bt cotton farmers of Punjab state. A total 150 cotton farmers were selected from three major cotton growing districts of the Punjab state. It was found that most of the respondents felt in the age group of 43 to 56 years and were matriculates. Nearly half of the respondents possessed the medium size of operational land holding. Majority of the farmers were found to have medium innovativeness and scientific orientation regarding Bt cotton cultivation. Study further revealed that on average, respondents had applied 8.91 insecticide sprays for management of various insect-pests on Bt cotton crop during the year 2015, incurring an expenditure of Rs. 8485/ha. Operational land holding and gross annual income were found to be positively and significantly related to total number of insecticide sprays whereas education level of the respondents had negative and significant relationship with total number of insecticide sprays used for management of insect-pests in Bt cotton. 

6 tables, 20 ref

023740   KAILASH, MISHRA O P, SINGH S K (Extension Education Dep, Institue of Agricultural Sciences, Varanasi, Email: kailashjakharss@gmail.com) : A study on socio-economic impact of use the mobile phone technology (ICTs) among the farmer of Rajasthan state. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 454-8.

Now times, 21st century declared to be the age of information and communication technology. This is the time when more people everywhere are involved in acquiring new knowledge and skils. We cannot work in the society without on-line technology. The need of ICT interventions are felt need of the hour in agriculture as rural areas mostly depend their socio-economic growth with agriculture. Rural India needs a very strong and innovative intervention to take a giant leap forward “Connecting India”, with focus on rural connectivity is one such intervention, which can help, ignites the rural creativity to achieve its potential by integrating them in global market. Keeping this in view, a study was conducted assess the socio-economic impact of use the mobile phone technology (ICTS) among the farmer in Merta block of Nagaur district of Rajasthan. A total of 110 respondents were selected for the study. This finding has shown that the majority of maximum number of respondents (14.54%) used Kisan mela on regular basis followed by agriculture officer (7.27%), the another result showed 69 per cent farmers used input dealers on regular basis followed by progressive farmer (64.54 %), neighbours (55.45%) and the various level of mass media sources TV was used on regular basis by majority of the farmers (30%) followed by newspaper (29.09%). However, 62.72 and 48.18 per cent respondents reported that they used TV and radio on occasional basis for agricultural information. 

3 tables, 12 ref

023739   PATIL S B, DESHMUKH A N, KOKATE S D (Extension Education Dep, Shri Shivaji Agriculture Coll, Amravati) : Effectiveness of community radio programme on listener farmers in Amravati. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 448-53.

The study on effectiveness of community radio programmes on listener farmers in Amravati was purposively conducted in Amravati, Bhatkuli and Nandgaon Kh. tahsil of Amravati district in Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. For present study, 80 listener farmers were selected from 8 - villages. Most of the respondents i.e. 51.25 per cent were included in the middle age group of 36 to 50 years. Maximum numbers (45 %) of the respondents were educated upto high school. More than half of the respondents i.e. 58.75 per cent had joint family. Relatively higher proportion of the respondents (60 %) belonged to medium category of extension contact, little less than two-third of the respondents (65 %) were having favorable attitude towards Sadhana CRS programme. Majority of the respondents (67.5 %) had medium level of overall effectiveness of Sadhana CRS programme. The variable namely family type, social participation, extension contact and attitude towards Sadhana CRS programme were positively and significantly related with effectiveness of Sadhana CRS programme and independent variable annual income and land holding was negatively Effectiveness of CRS, significant with effectiveness. Whereas, age and education did not show any relationship with Listener farmers effectiveness of Sadhana CRS programme.

2 tables, 5 ref

023738   ANAVRAT V (ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute, Nagpur) : Production and marketing constraints of Nagpur Mandarin growers in Madhya Pradesh. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 443-7.

The study was conducted in Shajapur and Chhindwara; predominantly Nagpur mandarin growing two districts of Madhya Pradesh. The total sample of 100 was derived from three each talukas of two districts using simple random and proportionate random sampling method for data collection. Of the total four categories of constraints, technical and personal factors superseded the socio-natural and financial constraints. Although Phytophthora induced diseases considered the major malady affecting Nagpur mandarin, the respondents did not feel it as a directly responsible factor in production. On the contrary, inadequate irrigation was cited to be the crucial constraint (49 %) followed by the erratic electric supply (18 %). Subsequently insect pest management received third rank as the damage caused to fruits due to insects pests like mites, thrips during initial stages of fruiting prominently surfaced to the extent of affecting marketability of the produce. As regarding marketing, lack of farmer's co-operatives considered as the most pressing problem by 56 per cent farmers. It connotes that, realization has dawned in them about the importance of organized marketing. The other concerning factors included lack of technical expertise regarding grading and packing of fruits (49%) and selling of produce to pre-harvest contractors in order to repay the loan of input providers. 

5 tables, 1 ref

023737   CHAVAI A M, SHINDE S B (Extension Education Dep, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Ahmednagar, Email: anandchavi.2009@gmail.com) : Socio-economic impact of farm pond in enhancing the livelihood of farming community of Maharashtra. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 437-42.

The study revealed that due to the availability of protective irrigation facility from farm pond the majority of Kharif and Rabi crops showed increase in average productivity viz., pigeonpea (34.38%) and green gram (20.35%) while Rabi crops wheat (30.16%), Rabi sorghum (27.44%) and gram (19.67 %). Whereas in case of vegetables it was increased by 13.20 per cent. The change in cropping intensity revealed that the gross cropped area increased by 8.41 per cent after construction of farm ponds. The cropping intensity was 106.11 per cent whereas after construction of farm ponds it was 115.03 per cent. The percent change in cropping intensity was observed as 8.91 per cent to the base year. As for as Kharif crops are concerned there were no much change in area. However, the percent change in total Rabi crops area was relatively more after construction of farm ponds. The area under Rabi sorghum, wheat, gram and vegetable crops (tomato, chilli, brinjal) were increased by (60.68%), (27.60%), (8.26%) and (3.66) per cent to the total Rabi area, respectively. The gross cropped area was increased which may help farmers to bring more area under Rabi crops. Moreover, the availability of water in farm ponds had resulted in diversification of the cropping pattern with the substitution of more profitable crops. Therefore, in order to bring fallow land under cultivation and to increase cropping intensity, farmers need to be encouraged to follow adoption of farm pond technology in changing cropping intensity which may help the beneficiary for the socio-economic upliftment. After the construction of farm ponds majority (27.85%) of beneficiary farmers were having their annual income in range of Rs. 225001 to Rs. 300000/- followed by (27.14%) beneficiaries found in the category of Rs.300001 and above. The percent change in annual income was 17.11 per cent. The independent variables viz., land holding, area under protective irrigation, risk preference and extension contact showed positive and highly significant relationship with overall impact of farm pond. The constraints such as farm pond sedimentation followed by disturbances of cow, pet and wild animals, with regard to getting subsidy's, unawareness about farm pond scheme, high rate of evapotranspiration during summer season, large area in hectares of productive land goes under farm pond construction were expressed by the farming community. 

6 tables, 4 ref

023736   KARIPE G, KRISHNAVENI K (DDS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Telangana) : Frontline demonstration on improved cultivation practices in tomato (Trellising,drip irrigation and mulching). Agric update 2017, 12(3), 433-6.

Front-line demonstrations on improved cultivation practices in tomato were conducted under the close supervision of scientists of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Adilabad district. Front-line demonstrations (FLDs) are the technologies demonstrated for the first time by the scientists themselves before being fed into the main extension system of the State Department of Agriculture. Front-Line Demonstrations are conducted under the close supervision of the scientists of the National Agriculture Research System comprising of ICAR Institute, National Research Centres, Project Directorates, Krishi Vigyan Kendras and the State Agricultural Universities and its regional Research Stations. This FLD conducted for two years during Kharif to Rabi 2012 and Kharif to Rabi 2013 at 10 locations from four villages. The comparison was made between farmers regular practice (Furrow method of irrigation, not following trellising and mulching) and improved practice (Trellising, Plastic mulching, Drip irrigation). This production system keeps plants growing upright and off the ground. Most growers who have tried it are convinced the fruit quality is better (bigger fruit, less rots, easier to pick). In Kharif, 2013 average yield obtained in demo is 1019 q/ha, in farmers practice 438 g/ha. The percentage increase in demo yield is 133 per cent over farmers practice. The benefit cost ratio is also high in demo is 3.07, low in check is 1.4. In Kharif, 2012 demo yield is almost double i.e., 880 q/ha with compare to farmers practice is 430 q/ha. In demo plot the yield, fruit size improved. Quality of fruits improved by complete controlling of fruit rot disease attack. 

2 tables, 6 ref

023735   PADOLE P D, DESHMUKH A N, DESHMUKH S A (Extension Education Dep, Shri Shivaji Agriculture Coll, Amravati) : Use of advance communication media by extension personnel of department of agriculture. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 428-32.

The study on use of advance communication media by the extension personnel of department of agriculture in Amravati district was conducted in the Amravati district of Maharashtra state. The exploratory design of social research was used for the study. The 80 extension personnel were selected as sample for study by stratified sampling method. The data were collected by conducting personal interview of the each respondent with help of structured interview schedule. Careful analysis, tabulation and classification of the data were done. Mean, standard deviation, frequency, percentage and correlation of the data were employed for the interpretation of the results. Results obtained after analysis are summaries as below. In case of personal profile of the extension personnel majority of the respondents (52.50%) were found middle aged i.e. 36 to 50 years, 46.25 per cent were educated upto post-graduation along with MSCIT as compulsory course. Majority of the respondents had medium level experience (56.25%) and 50.00 per cent of the respondents had received medium number of trainings. Majority of the respondents (63.75%) were having medium facilities available, majority of the respondents (62.15%) had held lower level post held and majority of them were satisfied with their job (68.75%). Majority of the respondents (55.00%) were having medium innovativeness. Regarding the use of advance communication media that was found that majority of the respondents (71.75%) belonged to medium category of use whereas, 15.00 per cent were in high category and finally only 13.75 per cent were found in low category of use of advance communication media. The relationship of the selected variable i.e. age, education, service experience, facilities available and innovativeness had positive and significant relationship with the use of advance communication media whereas, variable job satisfaction had negative significant relationship with the use of advance communication media whereas, variable post held/cadre was found non-significant with the use of advance communication media. 

3 tables, 6 ref

023734   RITHE A, PATEL N (Zonal Agricultural Research Station, M.P) : Constraints faced by participating farmers about sustainability of natural resource management under IWMP. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 425-7.

 The sustainability of dry land area is widely endangered due to over exploitation of natural resources beyond their carrying capacity. Integrated management of natural resources namely land, water, vegetation, animal and environment on watershed basis has emerged as a logical and the most effective holistic approach for sustainable production and overall development of such areas. Watershed development provides an opportunity for optimum utilization of land and water resources and increasing the crop productivity. The present investigation was carried out in Rewa district of M.P. The Participating farmers of integrated watershed management programme running since the year 2009-10 were selected for the purpose of present research work through proportionate random sampling method to make a sample of 120 respondents. The major constraints experienced by the respondents on the basis of rank order as, difficult to mobilize people, uneven distribution of activities, demand for big bunds, lack of awareness about IWMP, low participation of people, low knowledge about natural resources and its management, people lack interest in committee, by laws and acts not acceptable to all, lack of flexibility, cast and political involvement and more lengthy procedure. 

2 tables, 4 ref

023733   DEKA C, MISHRA P, TALUKDAR R K (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Assam, Email: chittasarthebari@gmail.com) : Individual level performance analysis of agricultural technology management agency in Assam. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 418-24.

The agricultural technology management agency (ATMA) is a registered society of key stakeholders involved in agricultural activities for sustainable agricultural development in the district. It is a focal point for integrating research and extension activities and decentralizing day-to-day management of agricultural extension system. As the ATMA programme is under operation for the last ten years in Assam, the researchable questions may arise that to how and what extent the extension personnel (Members of ATMA Governing Body) from respective district performed their role to accomplish the functions/activities of ATMA. Keeping in view, a research study was carried out with the objectives i.e. 1. To assess role performance of members ATMA governing body, 2. To find out direct and indirect effects of a set of selected predictor variables on role performance of members of ATMA governing body. A multistage purposive cum random sampling method was followed for selection of the respondents of the study. The findings of the level of role performance of the GB members revealed that 80.00 per cent of the respondents had low to medium level of performance. Only 20.00 per cent of them were found with high level of role performance. The value of co-efficient of multiple regression (R2) being 0.611 indicated that the independent variables viz., job satisfaction, achievement motivation, motivational profile, job value cherished, attitude towards extension work, organizational climate, leadership ability, role conflict and job stress jointly contributed 61.10 per cent towards the role performance of GB members. The F value (F=4.937**) was also found to be significant. The results of the path analyses that the variables leadership ability, job stress, motivational profile, achievement motivation, organizational climate and job satisfaction emerged to be six most important variables which exhibited substantial direct effects on the level of role performance of the GB members. 

1 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

023732   VERMA H K, YADAV P, KAILASH (Agricultural Technology Application, Research Institute, CAZRI Campus, Rajasthan, Email: hemantverma478@gmail.com) : Constraint and suggestion faced by the member farmers of gram panchayat while viewing farm television. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 415-7.

Television started as a modest affair in India on September 15, 1969 within the All India Radio set up on experimented television service in Delhi. It was soon converted into a full-fledged telecasting station. Later on, television centers were commissioned at Mumbai, Calcutta and Chennai and a relay center was set up in Poona. The television set up was delinked from All India Radio (AIR ) and under the name ‘Doordarshan’ was given the status of a full-fledged directorate with effect from April 1, 1976. Based on the recommendation of Chanda committee the ‘Krishi Darshan’programme was started by the Delhi Doordarshan on 26th January 1967. The programme was aimed for motivating and educating the farmers on various disciplines of agriculture. To find out various constraints faced by the member farmers of Gram Panchayat while viewing farm television, the study was conducted in Anand district have eight talukas, from each taluka three villages were selected randomly. Thus, in all 24 villages were covered with 96 member farmers of Gram Panchayat who were involved in Gram Panchayat. The data were collected through pre-tested structured interview schedule and appropriate statistical procedures were employed to analyze the data. Investigation was made relating to constraints faced by member farmers of Gram Panchayat in viewing of farm television. Frequency and percentage for each problem were calculated. An attempt was also made to ascertain suggestions from member farmers to overcome various constraints faced by them inviewing of farm television. The respondents were requested to offer their valuable suggestions against difficulties faced by them inviewing of farm television.

2 tables, 2 ref

023731   MEENA P C, MEENA PC (Agriculture Economics Dep, Agriculture Univ, Rajasthan, Email: bassi_meena@rediffmail.com) : Role of women in agriculture as farmer and labour : An empirical evidences of farm women involvement in agriculture operations in Jaipur district of Rajasthan state. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 409-14.

The present paper aimed to investigate the total number of days spent by women in agriculture during a year and time spent for different agricultural operations in both Rabi and Kharif seasons in Jaipur district of Rajasthan State. The study was based on random sampling method for the year 2012-2013. To ascertain the objective primary data were collected by conducting personnel interview method with help of schedules specially developed for the purpose. The study revealed that major proportion (more than 90.00 %) of the respondents participated in activities like application of fertilizers,manuring, intercultural operations, harvesting, threshing, winnowing, transportation and storage of produce. The findings also reveals in both Rabi and Kharif the maximum percentage time spent (23-26%) was in intercultural operations as a single activity followed by harvesting. Out of all the major activities least time was spent on nursery bed, seed bed preparation and transplanting during both Kharif and Rabi season. Further, the study also indicates that the total number of average hours spent per day was 5.17 in Kharif and 5.47 in Rabi season. However, the total number of hours of work per day varied according to the nature of agricultural activities being performed by them. Hence, the study suggest that despite the fact that though women contribute more in agriculture/farm related activities than men, their involvement in decision making process is extreme disadvantage in terms of rights, pay and participation in local producers organizations. The main cause for this situation is due lack of empowerment which has repeatedly fallout in negative externalities such as poor health and less orno education for women in farm families. Thus, the study suggest that future strategies should framed in such way that women would be actively involved in farm decision process both at the government and household level.

5 tables , 22 ref

023730   PHANISRI P S M, PARASAR B (Dr. Y.S.R Horticultural Univ, A.P, Email: madhumitha493@gmail.com) : Entrepreneurial behaviour of oil palm growers. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 405-8.

A study on entrepreneurial behaviour of oil palm growers in khammam district of andra pradesh was undertaken in 5 mandals with 100 respondents selected at random to find out the entrepreneurial behaviour of respondents. The data were collected through structural interview schedule. Majority (28%) respondents educated upto +2 level, 91 per cent belonged to general category under prevailing caste system of the respondents. Further majority (39%) of the respondents were in 46-44 age group with the land holding 5-10 acres (46%) , above Rs. 2,00,000 annual income (70%). In relation with various components of entreneurial behaviour, majority (68%) belonged to medium level of innovativeness followed by (74%) equal for both economic motivation and communication skills and 75 percent, 72 percent , 71 percent, 67 percent, 62 percent, medium level of risk orientation, information seeking ,achievement motivation, decision making ability, self confidence, respectively and all the respondents had high level of management orientation.

2 tables, 3 ref

023729   KAILASH, MISHRA O P, SINGH S K (Extension Education Dep, Inst of Agricultural Sciences, U.P, Email: Kailashjakharss@gmail.com) : Utilization pattern of mobile phone technology (smartphone) among the farmers of Nagpur district in Rajasthan. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 399-404.

Now-a- days, one of the most important emerging tools of ICT is the mobile phones with a remarkable growth during last decade. Mobile phone technologies have provided a good platform for farmers to share their knowledge and information among each other in time such as weather information, crop and variety selection, fertilizer and irrigation management, disease and pest management, market prices of the product and on-going government programmes. Keeping this in vie, a study was conducted assess the utilization pattern of mobile phones for sharing agricultural information among farmers in Merta block of Naguar district of Rajasthan. A total of 110 respondents were selected for the study. This study has shown that a majority (83.63%) of the farmer used call to reatiler than call to relative farmer (80%), internet user (29.09) and perceived as most information on weedicide, pesticide and disease control (89.09%) through mobile phones. The correlation studies indicated a significant association between educations, with extension agency contact and mass media of the farmer. The analysis showed that the poor connectivity, economic problem, high cost internet services and lack of updated information were some of the problems reported by the respondents.

3 tables, 21 ref

023728   BHAT B A, BHAT M I, RASHID R (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, J&K, Email: dr.bilal738@gmail.com) : Training needs of apple growers of district Budgam, J & K. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 392-8.

The study identified training needs of apple growers in district Budgam, J & K. Purposive sampling technique was used to select two blocks (Beerwah and khan sahib), four zones, eight circles and eighty apple farmers were selected for the study. Some of the data were analysed with percentage and mean score while some were presented in charts. Majority (77.5%) of the respondents did not have contact with extension agents in 2012 and they sourced information apple from neighbors (86.3%). The mean annual expenditure and income from apple were Rs. 27,568 and Rs. 235,530, respectively. Majority (96.2%) of the respondents had no training on processing and preservation of apple and off season production of apple (85%). Majority of the respondents indicated that training on apple should be organized by researchers (65%) through interpersonal communication (83.8%) using local language(Kashmiri) (78.8%). Provision of effective micro-credit facilities (M=2.84) and stability of government policy (stability of price of apple) (M=2.68) were perceived by the respondents as major strategies that will improve apple production in the area. The study encouraged building capacities of apple farmersthrough informal training especially in the areas of processing, preservation and off-season productionof apple so that they can face challenges of the enterprise, boost their farm size and income.

1 illus, 5 tables, 19 ref

023727   CHOUDHARY L R, BHIMAWAT B S (Extension Education Dep, Rajasthan Coll of Agricultural, Rajasthan, Email: Ir85.rea@gmail.com) : Operational and technical constraints faced by agricultural research scholars while using internet of agriculture science in MPUAT, Udaipur (Rajasthan). Agric update 2017, 12(3), 388-91.

The present study was purposely being conducted in Rajasthan College of Agriculture Udaipur due to the reason that this college is the oldest agricultural college in Rajasthan state and enjoys more and adequate facilities of internet surfing for agricultural students, especially for research scholars at central library as well as in their respective departments and hostels as compared to other agricultural colleges in Rajasthan. Considering the importance of the internet utilization the present investigation attitude and utilization pattern of internet among the research scholars of agriculture science was conducted in MPUAT, Udaipur Rajasthan. Majority of the male and female agricultural research scholars perceived the constraints about “high cost of maintenance of computer, WIFI etc.”,“inadequate availability of computer and internet facilities”, and “lack of adequate knowledge about the hardware, software and internet explorer”. In case of male agricultural research scholars the “slow speed for internet access”, “due to internet there is a decrease in frequency of reading printed materials”and “due to internet, there is decrease in live time discussion with friends” were also perceived as the most severe constraint, whereas in female agricultural research scholars the problem like “computer is frequently infected with viruses”, “lack of free time to use internet” and “due to internet there is a decrease in frequency of visit to library” were perceived also as most severe constraints.

2 tables, 5 ref

023726   KOLAMBKAR R A (Agricultural Economics Dep, Coll of Agriculture, Nesari, Email: Kolambkar.rachana14@gmail.com) : Net worth statement of orchard farm and agrarian farm in south-Goa district of Goa district of Goa state. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 383-7.

Investiagtion was carried out during the year 2014-15. Cross sectional data were collected from sample growers with the help of pretested schedule by personal interview method. Budgeting technique was applied to achieve the objective. The results revealed that the total asset found to be Rs. 4637326.67 while the total liability was Rs. 157128.33 and net worth or equity was found to be Rs. 4480198.34 on orchard farm, where as total asset was Rs.4190682.54 while total liability was Rs.155421 and worth or equity was found to be Rs.4035261.54 on agrarian farm. Equity value ratio was 0.97 and 0.96 orchard farm and agrarian farm, respectively. Equity value on orchard farm was slightly higher than that of agrarian farm. This ratio indicated the farm position of business over the period of time. Debt value ratio on orchard farm and agrarian farm was 0.03 and 0.04,respectively. The lower the ratio, it was good sign of the business. Thus, orchard farm was in a good condition because its owner's equity was higher.

3 tables, 5 ref

023725   BONDRE U A, DESHMUKH A N, DESHMUKH S A (Extension Education Dep, Shri Shivaji Agriculture Coll, Amravati) : Aspiration of agricultural college students. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 365-70.

The present study " aspiration college students" was carried out in Nagpur tehsil of Nagpur district in Maharashtra state. In all 90 students from college of Agriculture, Nagpur were selected from three faculties by random sampling method. The data were collected by personally interviewing the respondents with the help of structured interview schedule. Collected data were carefully examined, classified quantified and tabulated. Findings revealed that maximum percentages of the respondents (34.44%) families had small (1.01 to 2.00 ha) land holding. More than half of respondent's (52.22%) fathers had educated upto college and above. Less than half of respondent's (31.11%) mothers were educated upto primary school. Majority of respondents (75.55%) were from medium family size (4-6 members). More than half of the respondents (64.44%) belonged to rural area. More than half of respondents (62.22%) fathers had farming as occupation. Majority of the respondents (61.11%) secured 'distinction'. One third of the respondents family (31.11%) had high annual income in the range of (above Rs.2,00,000/-). Nearly all of the respondents (93.33%) came under male category. Majority of respondents (66.66%) were interested in doing M.SC. (Ag.) and MBA. More than half of respondents (58.88%) were from medium economical aspiration. Majority of respondents (45.55%) were interested in banker as a career aspiration. More than half of respondents (52.22%) were from high agricultural aspiration. Academic performance had positive and significant relationship with aspiration of agricultural college students at 0.01 level of probability. The variables size of family, family background and occupation of parents failed t show any significant relationship with aspiration of agricultural college students. It was found that in case of overall aspiration majority of respondents about 51.11 percent had medium.

4 tables, 24 ref

023724   MALLIKARJUN C, SADAQATH S (Agricultural Extention Education Dep., Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Karnataka, Email: channa.agri@gmail.com) : Constraints and suggestions of SRI method of paddy growers in Dharwad district, Karnataka, India. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 361-4.

Rice is a staple food for more than half of the world's population. World rice production nearly doubled since the 1960s to the 1980s, mainly due to the green revolution. A major issue with the traditional system of paddy production, particularly green revolution technology is input intensive and favours cash rich farmers. Increasing prices of agricultural inputs prevent poor farmers from completely adopting modern production technologies. Water demand by rice farmers was also continue increasing under such circumstances, any strategy that could produce higher rice yields with less water and less expenditure is the ned of the day. Under such circumstances the system of rice intensification (SRI) Method is suitable and followed by the farmers. System of rice intensification is a method for increasing the productivity of rice cultivation while at the same time reducing inputs, including seeds and fertilizers, and water requirements. The present study was conducted in Dharwad and kalaghatgi taluks of Dharwad district, to study the constraints and suggestions of SRI method of paddy growers, constraints confronted by paddy growers under SRI method of paddy cultivation. Study revealed that the major constraints in SRI production were weed management, skill labour required in transplanting, manual conoweeder and marker operation, availability of FYM, nursery management, lack of irrigation and drainage facility, and the major suggestions regarding SRI method of paddy cultivation were need to develop suitable chemical and mechanical weed control, make sure the availability of cono weeder and marker in the market, arranging field days and exposure visits to increase knowledge and adoption of SRI paddy growers.

2 tables, 14 ref

023723   SINGH G, SINGH G (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Punjab, Email: singhgurdarshan77@gmail.com) : Constraints in adoption of recommended button mushroom cultivation techniques. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 351-6.

Mushroom cultivation as a subsidiary occupation provides ample opportunities for sustaining rural livelihood. Krishi Vigyan kendra, faridkot is actively involved in conducting training programmes on button mushroom cultivation. Main objective of training programmes on mushroom production is to promote mushroom production as a self employment venture which can ultimately improve the socio-economic condition of the poor. It has also been observed that some of the people trained at KVK, Faridkot have adopted mushroom cultivation while some have not. It was found worthwhile to study the major bottlenecks in adoption of mushroom cultivation as an enterprise. With this objective the present study on constraints in adoption of recommended button mushroom cultivation techniques was carried out at KRISHI VIGYAN KENDRA, Faridkot from 2011-15. A total of 62 trainees trained by KVK Faridkot from Faridkot and Kotkapura blocks of district Faridkot were selected as respondents. The data revealed that issues related to price fixation (98 %) and lack of governmnent support (93.6 %) along with non- availabilty of quality spawn in the local area (84.9 %) , it's untimely supply (79.4 %) and lengthy and cumbersome method of compost preparation for button mushroom (80.3 %) are the major bottlenecks in adoption of this venture : In order to find out the relationship between ranks accorded by groups of respondents to different categories of constraints, rank order correlation was calculated. It was found that category of marketing constraints (82.70 %) was the top ranked category as perceived by the growers engaged in mushroom production. This was followed by input constraints (75.85 %), technological constraints (72.00 %), general constraints (64.46 %) socio-cultural constraints (62.47 %) and crop management constraints (55.9 %).

3 tables, 19 ref

023722   SINGH P, SINGH J, DHILLON B S, SINGH S (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Punjab, Email: tungps1971-asr@pau.edu) : Constraints as perceived by the respondents in adoption of recommended kitchen gardening techniques in district Amritsar, Punjab. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 347-50.

Vegetables help to combat malnutrition and diversity diets. Kitchen gardening may prove to be a boon for rural people to meet their daily requirements of vegetables and fruits. Most of the farm families having kitchen garden are interested to improve the practice of growing vegetables for their own use but they are facing various constraints. The present study was conducted with the objective to study the perceived constraints in adoption of kitchen gardening by the rural masses. Four villages were selected from different blocks of district Amritsar. Twenty five(25) farm families who were already practising kitchen gardening were randomly selected from each village, consisting the total sample of 100 respondents (one from each family). The data were collected from each respondent through personal interview method with the help of structured schedule. The constraints as perceived by respondents scored on the basis of magnitude of the problem. The study highlighted that input constraint was most serious constraint followed by general constraints, technical constraints, socio-cultural constraints and post-harvest constraints. Non- availability of quality planting material and seeds of HYVs of vegetables, lack of knowledge about improved varieties, seed rate and, sowing time, seed treatment, major pests and diseases, continous use of traditional practices for growing vegetables and lack of interest among rural youth towards farming were considered the major constraints in successful adoption of kitchen gardening.

2 tables, 6 ref

023721   HIMSHIKHA, SINGH C (Extension Div, Forest Research Institute, Uttarakhand, Email: bhhimshikha654@gmail.com) : Chi² analysis of economic factors in agroforestry adoption: Which economic factors influence farmers and which do not?. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 338-46.

This paper presents empirical evidence on the influence of economic factors on the adoption of agroforestry practices by the farmers in Haridwar, India. An exploratory survey was done to collect data from all three tehsils of haridwar, one of the important farming regions of North India. Total 426 farmers were selected using random sampling at multistage level among which 365 were agroforestry adopters and rest 61 were non adopters. Data were analyzed using Chi² test of independence. Results have shown that land holding, land ownership, farming as main occupation, sources of income, tree produces as fuel, monthly income status, importance of income from farm, sale of farm produces significantly influence while earning member in the family does not influence adoption of agroforestry. Overall agroforestry farmers were found in better economic conditions than that of non agroforestry farmers who were practicing agriculture alone. Research findings also indicated that farmers with low poor level of income could not invest in long term projects of tree plantation in agroforestry. They could be provided finance support from relevant authority side which could encourage them to adopt agroforestry. Since, the respondents had an agreed understanding of all studied economic parameters. Therefore, each of the studied variables should be addressed at both; more or less to positive or negative way to which they affect the farmers' decision to adopt agroforestry practices.

10 tables, 17 ref

023720   KUMAVAT R, DHAYAL B L, SINGH N K (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Gujarat, Email: dhayalextn@yahoo.co.in) : Credit need of the farmers in Bikaner region of Rajasthan. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 328-37.

The credit need to the farmers of Sriganganagar and Hanumangarh was about 40-42 per cent and 68 to 74 per cent to the farmers of Bikaner and Churu district of the total amount registered for recommended dose of inputs. In case of term loan about 42 to 54 per cent was needed to the farmers of study area for purchasing of farm equipments and machinery, minor irrigation system and for land development purposes. Of the credit need about 28 to 49 per cent short term credit was supplied to the farmers of study area. In case of term credit about 50 to 69 per cent term loan was supplied to the borrower farmers by financial institutions in study area. Purpose wise highest term credit (58 to 54 %) was provided for farm machinery and equipment to the farmers of Hanumangarh and Sriganganagar district. However, the higher 54-60 per cent term credit was supplied for minor irrigation to the farmers of Bikaner and Churu district. The total credit supplied varied from 82 to 87 per cent of the total credit need. The utilization pattern of the short term credit among small, medium and large farms of the study area was about 68 per cent (small) to 92 per cent (large farms). On an average utilized amount of the short term loan by the farmers of Bikaner region as whole was about 77 to 85 per cent of the total credit supplied for production purposes. About 79 to 85 per cent term loan and 82 to 87 per cent total loan was utilized by the farmers of Bikaner region. The short term credit gap of the borrower farmers of Bikaner region was estimated about 13 to 19 per cent, however, the supply gap in respect of term credit was 19 to 48 per cent of the total term credit need. The financial institutions preferred to provide the credit to the farmers having larger land holding. The repayment performance was found higher on small farmers followed by medium and large farmers in the study area. The repayment performance of short term loan on overall level was about 69 to 86 per cent. About 65 to 85 per cent difference farm large to small farms was found in repayment performance in the study area. The overdues amount was increased with increase in size of land holding. The extent of overdues increase of term loan ranged 15 to 33 per cent. The gross farm income, non farm income, cropping intensity, amount put for productive purposes and total land holding was significantly negative effect in overdues and variables such as amount put for unproductive farm expenses, old debts, live stock expenditure were having positive relationship with overdues.

14 tables, 6 ref

023719   DAS R, JHA K K (Agricultural Extension Dep, Nagaland Univ, Nagaland, Email: kkjhanurd@rediffmail.com) : Training needs of potato growers in Sepahijala district of Tripura. Agric update 2017, 12(3), 323-7.

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is the fourth most important food crop and the primary non-grain food commodity in the world. At present china is the biggest potato producer globally. Total potato produced from China and India accounts for one third production of the rest of world. India accounted for 45.57 million MT of potato from an area of 20.63 lakh ha in the year 2015-16 with an average productivity of 22.10 t/ha. The potato grows quickly and contains more energy and protein per unit area when compared to a cereal crop.Therefore, it plays a vital role in ensuring food security, which is a major concern for the country. In north eastern region of India, the state of Assam leads in area and the state of Tripura leads in productivity of potato. Tripura having an area of 5.4 thousand hectare under potato cultivation has an average productivity of 17.80 tonnes/ha which is below the average national productivity of 22.10 tonnes/ha (NHRDF,2016). A study was conducted in sepahijala district of tripura by randomly selecting two of its rural development blocks. The main objective of the study was to analyse the socio-economic and personal characteristics of the potato growers and assess their perceived training needs in context of improved potato cultivation and increase the productivity of the crop. Data analyse was done using SAS software . The findings revealed that majority of the farmers had training needs in the area of disease management followed by insect pest management and balanced use of manures and fertilizers.Correlation analysis revealed that majority of the farmers had training needs in the area of disease management followed by insect pest management and balanced use of manures and fertilizers .Correlation analysis revealed that variables age, education and knowledge had highly significant association with the variable " training needs" of the potato farmers .Variables age and knowledge were found important to explain training needs of the potato growers.

4 tables, 11 ref

023718   PARVATHY A, NANJAPPA D, LAKSHMINARAYAN M T (Agricultural Extension Dep, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Karnataka) : Development of a decision support system of farm implements and machinery for selected crops of Kerala. Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 319-22.

The study was conducted during 2013-14 to develop a decision support system (DSS) in farm mechanization in selected crops for extension personnel and farmers of Kerala state. Farm implements and machinery having more than 25 per cent efficiency were selected to include in the decision support system. Ninety one implements or machinery used in rice plantation crops and fruit and vegetable crops were included in the system. The development of decision support system "farm mechanization" and the Malayalam version of the same, “Karshika yanthravalkaranam” was done through seven stages: a) Development of basic guidelines for presentation, b) Preparation of general outline for the content, c) Naming of the decision support system and its components, d) Preparation of information output sheets, e) Preparation of graphical elements, f) Development of page layouts and g) Development of the software component.

3 illus, 5 ref

023717   KHATIK R L, SHARMA F L, JAIN H K (Extension Education Dep, Coll of Agriculture, Rajasthan) :  Impact of National Food Security Mission with special reference to adoption level to field demonstration interventions in gram crop in southern Rajasthan . Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 315-8.

The present study was conducted in Banswara and Udaipur districts of Southern Rajasthan. Total 120 gram beneficiary and non-beneficiary farmers were selected on the basis of random sampling method from the identified districts. The findings reveal that the extent of adoption of RSG 888 variety of gram among beneficiary farmers was recorded 86.25 per cent, while in case of non beneficiary farmers it was 61.25 per cent. In case of extent of adoption of the complete package of practices of RSG-888 variety of gram, it was found that beneficiary and non-beneficiary farmers had 83.75 and 62.50 per cent adoption, respectively. 

2 tables, 10 ref

023716   CHOUDHARY L R, BHIMAWAT B S (Extension Education Dep, Coll of Agriculture, Rajasthan) : Economic and physical constraints faced by the Research Scholars while using internet of Agriculture Science in MPUAT, Udaipur (Rajasthan) . Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 311-4.

Internet has become a way of life for majority of higher education students all around the world. For most of universities and college students, the internet is a functional tool, one that has greatly changed the way they interact with each other and with information as they go about their studies. Considering the importance of the internet utilization the present investigation. The present study was purposively being conducted in Rajasthan College of Agriculture. Udaipur due to the reason that this College is the oldest Agricultural College in Rajasthan state and enjoys more and adequate facilities of internet surfing for agricultural students, especially for research scholars at central library as well as in their respective departments and Hostels as compared to other Agricultural Colleges in Rajasthan. Considering the importance of the internet utilization the present investigation “Attitude and Utilization Pattern of Internet among the Research Scholars of Agriculture Science in MPUAT, Udaipur Rajasthan". 

2 tables, 3 ref

023715   BAGENIA P S, KUMAWAT S R, CHATURVEDI D (Extension Education Dep, Coll of Agriculture, Rajasthan) : Effect of degree of attributes on rate of adoption of farm technology in desert tract of Rajasthan. Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 303-10.

This study was conducted in the desert tract of Rajasthan during the year 2012-13. To know the causes and motives behind the adoption or non-adoption of the technology base among our diverse farming community. The result revealed that accessibility and cost effectiveness and among the potential causes of non-adoption of recommended production technologies and that very encouraging level of the factors viz., attitude towards innovative farm institute commercialization index and surplus income leads to a high rates of adoption. Out of 160 farmers 42.62 per cent were found to have high rate of technology adoption in various crops whereas, 34.08 and 23.30 per cent farmers had adopted medium and low level of technology. Result highlighted that technology adoption level was highest in fertilizer technology upto 59.17 per cent and only farmers used it upto low level in fertilizer and number of irrigation, respectively. It was also found that maximum farmers were having very encouraging (favorable) levels of attitude towards, Innovative farm, surplus income, commercialization, index farm size, economic information and extension linkage. Had obtained high level of technology. The results further indicated that 'lack of knowledge about chemical weed control', 'weed control through weedicides is technically complex method', 'lack of knowledge about chemical and quantity in plant protection measures and for seed treatment, labour charges costly were the main constraints as perceived by the respondents in adoption of farm technology. 

1 illus, 4 tables, 11 ref

023714   KHATIK R L, SHARMA F L, JAIN H K, SAMOTA S D, DAMOR R K (Extension Education Dep, Rajasthan Coll of Agriculture, Rajasthan, Email: ramlalkhatik89@gmail.com) : Farm profits derived by the beneficiaries on account of adoption of urd interventions under NFSM . Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 299-302.

The present study was conducted in Banswara and Udaipur districts of Southern Rajasthan. Total 120 urd beneficiary and non-beneficiary farmers were selected on the basis of random sampling method from the identified districts. The study reveals that out of 120 respondents, 51 (42.50 %) respondents in high farm profit group i.e. above Rs.21500/year. Whereas, 47 urd growers (39.17%) could be placed under medium level of farm profit group viz., ranging from Rs.18000 to 21500/year and 22 respondents (18.33%) were found in the low farm profit group upto Rs. 18000/year. 

2 tables, 12 ref

023713   HIMSHIKHA, SINGH C (Extension Division, Forest Research Institute, Uttrakhand, Email: bhhimshikha654@gmail.com) : Independent household and farm factors in adoption of different agroforestry types: Experience from Haridwar district, North India  . Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 292-8.

This study accesses the individual, house hold and farm factors that are not associated with adoption of four major kinds of agroforestry practices in Haridwar district, India. Random sampling technique was used for the purpose. All three tehsils were selected and 12 villages were randomly selected from each of the tehsils. 12 farmers' households were randomly selected from each of the village. Primary data were collected through semi structured questionnaire with 426 farmers out of which 365 farmers were agroforestry adaptors. Data from agroforestry adopters only is analyzed in this study. The results of the study shows that there were a number of determinants which although being a part of household conditions, did not influence an agroforestry adopter's decision on what types of agroforestry he should practice his field. Chi² test (p=0.05) shoes that there is no significant association between different household conditions determinants and a farmers choice on types of agroforestry practices in all three tehsils of the studied district. The adopted agroforestry practices in the study area include agri-silvi and pastoral based practices, horticulture tree species based like orchard plantation or home gardens; multipurpose tree species woodlots and live fences in form of planting trees on farm boundaries. 

2 tables, 21 ref

023712   TEKALE V S, INGALE M, TAYDE V V (Extension Education Section, Coll of Agriculture, Nagpur) : Impact of intensive watershed development project . Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 288-91.

 The study of impact of Vidarbha intensive watershed development project on its beneficiary farmers was conducted in Yavatmal district of Vidarbha region of Maharashtra state. The sample consisted of 100 beneficiary farmers from 3 different villages of Arni, Digras and Darwha talukas of Yavatmal district were randomly selected. Data were collected on personal, socio-economic,communicational and psychological characteristics related to agriculture with the help of pre structured and pretested interview schedule. The result showed that, in case of characteristics of respondents farmers, majority of respondents (52.00%) belonged to middle age group, nearly half of the respondents (42.00%) were educated upto secondary school, family size of respondents was in medium (46.00%). Majority of the respondents (51.00%) had medium land holding and moderately deep soil type (52.00%). High proportion of respondents (42.00%) had high annual income. Over half of respondents (57.00%) belonged to medium social participation. Majority of the respondents (74.00%) had medium mass media exposure and medium innovativeness (55.00%). The majority of the respondents (63.00%) had high source of irrigation and major source of irrigation of 76 per cent respondents was canal irrigation, The impact of VIWDP on beneficiaries farmers showed that in case of change in cropping pattern over half of the respondents (57.00%) had medium change in cropping pattern and 31.00 per cent had high change. Majority of respondents (57.00%) had medium change in their cropping intensity and 27.00 per cent high change. Over half of the respondents (66.00%) had medium change in crop production. Nearly three fourth of the respondents (73.00%) had medium change in crop productivity and 19.00 per Watershed cent respondents observed high change in productivity. In case of income due to VIWDP 65 per cent development project, respondents change income at medium level and 20 per cent respondents at high level. Majority of the respondents (59.00%) said that no change in their agriculture occupation. The overall impact of VIWDP on beneficiary farmers was 78.82 per cent. In case of relational analysis of characteristics of respondents with overall impact of VIWDP, it was observed that education, land holding, soil type, annual income, social participation, mass media exposure, innovativeness and source of irrigation was positively and highly significantly correlated with impact of VIWDP. Whereas, age and family size were non-significantly correlated with overall impact of VIWDP.

3 tables, 7 ref

023711   ASIWAL R C, SHARMA R C, SHARMA B K (Agricultural Economics Dep, Coll of Agriculture, Rajasthan, Email: rameshasiwal123@gmail.com) :  The incidence of labour-land and labour-credit interlocking in agriculturally developed region of Rajasthan  . Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 281-7.

The present study investigates the functioning of Agricultural labour market in Jaipur district of Rajasthan. The Chomu tehsil was purposively selected for study. A cluster of three villages namely, Jaitpura, Kanpura and Khushalpura was randomly selected from the selected tehsil. From above selected villages, a sample of sixty respondents was selected at random with the help of probability proportion. Primary data were collected from the selected agricultural labour households by personally interviewing the results of study revealed that more than 80 per cent of the households reported either borrowing or leasing in land from their employers in all selected villages. Further, labour-credit interlocking was much more pronounced as compared to.labour-land interlocking. The number of days worked on lower wages per annum varied from as high as 81.00 in Khushalpura to 61.00 in Jaitpura. The implicit rate of interest varied between as high as 36.00 per cent in Khushalpura and 24.00 per cent in Jaitpura. The incidence of hereditary debt was reported only in one sample villages, which was Rs. 12500 in Khushalpura. The incidence of labour land interlocking was very low; it varied from 14 per cent to around 18 per cent sample households involved in such interlocking. The low incidence of labour land interlocking was primarily due to the fact that most of the agricultural labour households did not have the supporting inputs, like bullocks and other farm implements which are essentially required in farming. 

5 tables, 9 ref

023710   CHANNAMALLIKARJUNA D, SADAQATH S (Agricutural Extension Education Dep, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, Email: channa.agri@gmail.com) : Knowledge and adoption of SRI method paddy growers . Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 277-80.

The present study was undertaken in Dharwad and Kalaghatgi talukas of Dharwad district of Karnataka state having large area under cultivation of paddy, from selected talukas the list of villages was prepared and five villages from each taluka were selected on the basis of highest area under paddy crop. From selected villages, the list of farmers was prepared village wise and 15 farmers from each villages were selected by random sampling technique. Total 150 respondents were selected for the study. The data were collected by personal interview. Based on the finding of the study majority of the respondents were having medium level of knowledge, followed by high level and low level of knowledge. While in case of adoption, that majority of the respondents had medium level of adoption, followed by high and low level of adoption. Among various personal, socio-economic profile characteristics of the respondents, education, land holding, area under SRI method, family income, social participation, mass participation, had highly significant relationship with at 5 per cent level of adoption whereas experience in SRI method, innovative proneness, risk orientation, extension contact, participation in training, cosmopoliteness, farmers field school, had highly and positively significant relationship with at 1 per cent level of adoption whereas only age had non-significant relationship with the knowledge and adoption of SRI method paddy growers.

3 tables, 7 ref

023709   GOSWAMI A J, DEKA C K, DAS P K (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Dhubri, Assam, Email: ckdeka@rediffmail.com) : Problems faced by the farmers in adoption of recommended package of practices of black gram: A study in Nagaon district of Assam . Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 274-6.

The study was carried out to see the problems faced by the farmers in extent of adoption of recommended package of practices of black gram. The present study was conducted in Nagaon district of Assam. The study revealed that the most important problems faced by majority of the pulse growers which ranked 1st, 2nd and 3rd were non-availability of quality seeds, lack of irrigation facility and lack of knowledge on scientific cultivation of pulses. The other important problems which also need attention were high incidence of pest and diseases, post-harvest storage problem, price fluctuation in the market throughout the year, high cost of fertilizers and plant protection chemicals and flood damage the Kharif crops, lack of proper marketing facility, high rate of interest on loan charge by the professional money lender, high cost of certified seed/quality seeds, high incidence of intervention of middle men, complicated procedure for obtaining loan from the credit institution, heavy rainfall and lack of proper extension service. 

1 table, 9 ref

023708   PAWAR D B, DESHMUKH K V, KAUTHEKAR P U (Agricultural Economics Dep, Coll of Agriculture, Parbhani) : Resource productivity and resource use efficiency in soybean production . Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 270-73.

Investigation was carried out during the year 2014-15. About 48 non-residential farms were randomly selected from sixteen villages of two tehsils in Parbhani district of Maharashtra. Data were related to soybean output and input like area under crop, hired human labour, bullock labour, machine labour, seed, nitrogen, phophorus, potash, plant protection and family human labour. The result revealed that, partial regression co-efficient of area under crop was 0.385 followed by that hired human labour was (0.110) and family human labour (0.165) which were positive and singficant at 1 per cent and 5 per cent level, respectively. Patrial regression co-efficient of bullock labour, manchine labour, phosphorus and potash were positive but non-significant. Marginal product of area under soybean was 5.399 quintals followed by that of bullock labour (0.370q), machine labour (0.220 q) and family human labour (0.1429). MVP to price ratio with respect to family human labour was 2.16 followed by bullock labour (1.70) and machine labour (1.34). Optimum use of area under soybean was found to be 1.94 hectares and optimum use of phosphorus was 60.24 kg.

1 table, 8 ref.

023707   KAUR K (Extension Education Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Punjab, Email: kulvirkaur70@pau.edu) : Impact of counseling on awareness and adoption level of rural women regarding drudgery reducing techniques . Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 266-9.

Women always involve themselves in multifarious activities and spend most of their time in performing home related activities under stressful work conditions and changes postures on own ways such as bending, standing, squatting, sitting without knowing the health hazards of those. So the present study was undertaken to assess the adoption of correct techniques before and after intervention of drudgery reducing techniques. It was found that only 10 per cent respondents were having knowledge of keeping back in erect position and 40 per cent rural women had knowledge of using smaller movements of hands. After counseling, cent per cent respondents had acquired knowledge of storing of objects at proper heights. Twenty-six per cent respondents had lack of interest in taking advantage of gravity. 

2 illus, 1 table, 4 ref

023706   CHOUDHARY L R, BHIMAWAT B S (Extension Education Dep, Rajasthan coll of Agricultural, Rajasthan) : Effect of internet utilization on overall performance of agricultural research scholars of agriculture science in MPUAT, Udaipur (Rajasthan) . Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 262-5.

 Internet has become a way of life for majority of higher education students all around the world. For most universities and college students, the internet is a functional tool, one that has greatly changed the way they interact with each other and with information as they go about their studies. Considering the importance of the internet utilization the present investigation "attitude and utilization pattern of internet among the research scholars of agriculture science in MPUAT, Udaipur (Rajasthan). 

2 tables, 2 ref

023705   SAMOTA S D, SHARMA F L, KHATIK R S (Extension Education Dep, Rajasthan coll of Agriculture, Rajasthan) : Effectiveness of NAIP in augmenting the farmers' adoption regarding irrigation water management interventions for wheat cultivation in Banswara district. Agric Update 2017, 12(2), 258-61.

The present research paper is based on the formative evaluation of NAIP with special reference to irrigation water management in wheat cultivation in Banswara district of Southern Rajasthan. The consortia project of NAIP was executed disadvantaged NAIP in four tribal districts namely, Udaipur, Banswara, Dungarpur and Sirohi. Banswara district was selected for the investigation based on maximum households covered under the project. In Banswara district there are four Panchayat Samities viz., Talwara, Ghatol, Garhi and Kushalgarh. Talwara Panchayat Samiti was selected for the study. One Panchayat Samiti viz., Talwara was selected for the study. In Telwara Panchayat Samiti four Gram Panchayat viz., Talwara, Ghatol, Garhi and Kushalgarh were taken as such, for the present study and considered as beneficiaries. For the comparison between beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries farmers four Gram Panchayat were considered for the sample study. This sample of 19 beneficiaries each from every beneficiary village and similar size of sample of non-beneficiaries (19) from each of the non beneficiary villages constituted total size of sample i.e. 152. Alarming findings indicated that almost similar number of beneficiaries (Bs) and non-beneficiaries (NBs) fell under higher level of adoption about irrigation water management (IWM) in wheat. Adverse impact of NAIP with regards to IWM interventions introduced was noticed since, beneficiaries respondents 50 (65.79 %) expressed slightly higher adoption of IWM as compared with those of non-beneficiaries 42 (55.27 %). Data also show that 16 (21.06%) beneficiaries and 30 (39.47 %) non-beneficiaries belonged to medium level of adoption of IWM. Furthermore, that is booting, tillering and milking stages at first priority (MPS 85.65 %) followed by irrigation in crop at CRI stage (tillering and flowering stages) ranked as second (MPS 82.15). At the same time it was also observed that out of seven intervention of IWM, the beneficiaries farmers visualized comparatively more adoption of IWM sub intervention viz., irrigation after 21 days of sowing, irrigation at CRI and flowering stages and providing at least 450-650 mm irrigation water in wheat crop. 

2 tables, 3 ref