022912   Kar J;Mishra L (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar-751 003, Email: jayashreekarbbsr@gmail.com) : Genetic variability and diversity in mutant cultures of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4B), 2172-6.

Genetic variability and diversity of 28 mutant cultures, selected from the treatment of physical mutagen (gamma rays-20 kR and 30 kR), chemical mutagens (EMS-0.2%, 0.4% and NG-0.01% and 0.02%) and their combinations on a groundnut variety, Smruti along with parent were studied in M₄ generation. Variability estimates were high (<62>20%) for pod yield/plant, kernel yield/plant and harvest index, whereas number gynophores/plant, number of pods/plant, 100-kernel wt. Biological yield and shelling percentage exhibited moderate (10%-20%) phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV). High heritability with high genetic advance was estimated for pod yield/plant, no. of pods/plant, kernel yield/plant and harvest index indicating scope for effective yield improvement through selection for these traits. High heritability associated with moderate genetic advance was observed in case of 100-kernel weight and shelling percentage, while moderate heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance was observed for no. of gynophores/plant indicating predominance of both additive and non additive gene effect. These 29 genotypes (28 cultures and parent) were grouped into six different clusters. Cluster-I was the largest cluster consisting of 18 genotypes, whereas cluster VI was a monogenotypic cluster. Inter-cluster distance was highest between cluster III and VI followed by cluster II and VI and lowest between cluster II and V. Cluster-II was characterized by highest pod yield/plant and other yield attributing characters. 100-kernel wt. And kernel yield/plant contribute maximum towards genetic divergence, whereas days to flowering accounted the least. Cluster II and cluster - 272 - IV were characterized by highest kernel yield/plant and shelling percentage respectively. Genotypes of cluster II, III and IV may be utilized for further breeding program to recover transgressive segregants with high heterotic response for productivity.

5 tables, 6 ref

022911   Kamyab-Talesh F;Mostafazadeh-Fard B; Vazifedoust M;Shayannejad M;Navabian M (Water Engineering Dep, College of Agriculture, Isfahan Univ of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran, Email: forough.kamyab@gmail.com) : Salt tolerance analysis of crops using the SWAP Model. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(2), 643-9.

Soil and water salinities are major environmental factors limiting the productivity of agricultural lands especially in arid and semi arid regions. To determine salinity threshold values and slope of the yield decrements for crops of wheat, barley and maize, SWAP model was study for an arid region located in Semnan Province (52°25' N 35°11' E), central part of Iran with area of 35000 ha including 94 villages belonged to irrigation network of Garmsar district. The data collected from the above 94 villages for years 1998 to 2007 were used to calibrate and simulate yield of wheat, barley and maize using the SWAP model. The irrigation water salinities of 2, 4, 6 and 8 dS m^-1 were used and yield reductions versus soil saturation extracts were evaluated and salinity threshold values and slope of the yield reductions were determined for each of the above crops. The results showed that the SWAP model predict crop yields with good accuracy and the threshold values and slope of the yield reductions are site dependent. These values should be determined for each area in order to be able to plan better irrigation scheduling for arid regions which have soil and irrigation water salinities problems.

3 illus, 3 tables, 31 ref

022910   Kairon V K;Sankhyan H P;Thakur S;Sharma S S; Rana N (Tree Improvement and Genetic Resources Dep, College of Forestry Dr. Y.S. Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni-Solan-173 230, Email: sankhyanhp@gmail.com) : Morphological evaluation of seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) populations under different major gene pool areas of spiti valley of Himachal Pradesh. Indian J For 2016, 39(4), 317-20.

Morphological evaluation in Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) was carried out among nine major gene pool areas and three growing conditions, within each major gene pool area of Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The performance of most morphological traits showed significant variations among different major gene pool areas as well as within different growing conditions. GPA-4 (Schilling) was superior than other major gene pool areas for plant and leaf morphological traits and GPA-3(Sheigo) for fruits parameters among different major gene pool areas. Over all, GC-3 (crop land) was found superior for all morphological traits among different growing conditions and in different major gene pool areas. It emerged from the present study that a large variability exists in the population of Hippophae rhamnoides growing under different growing conditions among different major gene pool areas in Spiti valley of Himachal Pradesh, particularly for morphological traits, which can be harnessed for improved genetic gain. The variability of different characters could be utilized for selection of genotypes suitable for the plantation and utilization in making different non wood forest products and also for utilizing ecological and economical gains in cold desert of Himachal Pradesh.

4 tables, 17 ref

022909   Joshi R (Soil Science Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: ritikajoshi964@gmail.com) : Physical constraints of fine textured heavy soils and their management. Agric Rev 2017, 38(3), 216-2.

Of the many forms of above- and below-ground stresses facing agriculture production, physical soil limitations are generally among the most persistent and least amenable to amelioration. Fine textured heavy soils have physical constraints that severely affect soil and plant health and yield parameters and there is a need to study the problems of these type of soils and find possible measures to ameliorate these problems. Reasons for these problems along with possible preventing measures have been discussed. These soils have severe soil aeration problem due to restricted soil water movement within the profile. The affects of these constraints on crop growth and productivity were highlighted. For efficient crop production, it is important to understand the soil environment in which plants grow, to recognize the limitations of that environment and to ameliorate where possible without damaging the soil quality. For satisfactory plant growth, it is essential that the soil provides a favourable physical environment for root development that can exploit the soil sufficiently to provide the plants needs for water, nutrients and anchorage.

^iia76 ref

022908   Joshi N;Singh V P;Dhyani V C;Indu Bala;Komal (Agronomy Dep, College of Agriculture, GB Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, U.S. Nagar, Uttarakhand-263 145, Email: neeshu.joshi@gmail.com) : Impact of supplementing the pre and post emergence herbicides with manual weeding under different planting geometry on growth and yield of direct seeded rice. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4B), 2073-6.

The experiment consists of three different planting geometry (continuous drilling at 20 cm, 20 cm x 10 cm and 25 cm x 25 cm) and four weed management practices (pendimethalin at 1 kg/ha fb 1 H.W. at 30 DAS, bispyribac-Na at 25 g/ha fb 1 H.W. at 45 DAS, pendimethalin 1 kg/ha fb bispyribac-Na at 25 g/ha fb 1 H.W. at 45 DAS and weedy check) were used under FRBD with four replications. Positive efficiency indices - 270 - of different planting geometry and weed management treatments were also observed in the study. Combination of pendimethalin with bispyribac-Na and manual weeding was the best integrated weed management treatment along with continuous drilling at 20 cm to control weeds and enhance growth and yield of rice.

3 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

022907   Joni Kumar;Paul B (Entomology Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: jonikumar68@gmail.com) : Population dynamics of aphid, Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: aphididae) on different brassica species. Agric Sci Dig 2017, 37(1), 64-7.

Present studies deal with continuous observation of aphid population on different brassica species at every fourteen days interval. Five plants were selected randomly from each plot. The top 10cm terminal portion was used for counting of aphid population. The first appearance of aphid population was found at end of December in Brassica rapa var toria, B. rapa var yellow sarson and Brassica juncea. The correlation coefficients between aphid population and abiotic factors revealed contradictory results. Except for a few instances the abiotic parameters show a low order of association with aphid population. A significant negative correlation of aphid population was found with maximum temperature in B. rapa var toria (r= -0.963**), B. rapa var yellow sarson (r= -0.877*) and B. juncea (r= -0.913*). The population dynamics study of coccinellid beetles revealed that its population increased gradually with the increase of aphid population and vice-versa. In our experiment none of the weather parameters alone was responsible for the multiplication and growth of the aphid but it is assumed that during major part of rabi season, the meteorological parameters remained conducive for the rapid multiplication of aphid.

1 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

022906   John S Z;Prema A;Sureshkumar P K (College of Co-operation, Banking and Management, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur-680 656, Email: sachuzj@yahoo.com) : Impact of labour institution on the household welfare of agricultural labourers - a study on Green Army Labour Bank members in Thrissur district. J trop Agric 2016, 54(2), 153-8.

Green Army Wadakkanchery Block Labour Bank, Wadakkanchery was formed as a labour institution with the intention of protecting the interests of labourers and farmers in Wadakkanchery block in order to - 269 - improve the welfare of agricultural labourers, reduce the scarcity of agricultural labourers and improve agricultural productivity. A study was conducted during 2013-14 to analyze the impact of GALB on the welfare of the Green army members. There was significant increase in the total annual expenditure and the total number of employment days of Green Army members after joining the Green army. Though there was considerable increase in the monthly expenditure towards food, fuel, health, education, communication, travel and entertainment, electricity charges and clothes, expense towards communication has showed more than 100 per cent increase after joining Green army. Total consumption expenditure is considered to be a good index of measuring household welfare. Multiple regression using consumption expenditure as the determinant showed that size of the family, empowerment imparted by Green Army Labour bank in terms of self-confidence, thrift habit, social consciousness, team work etc, and outstanding loan amount of the family have substantially influenced total consumption expenditure and subsequently the household welfare of Green Army members.

^ssc1 illus, 4 tables, 6 ref

022905   Johari A;Kawatra A (NO, CCS HAU, Hisar, Haryana, Email: johariaanchal@gmail.com) : Organoleptic and proximate evaluation of processed pearl millet based instant Upma mix. J Ecofriendly Agric 2018, 13(1), 99-102.

In the present study pearl millet was subjected to processing treatments viz. blanching, extrusion and germination and utilized in development of gluten free instant Upma mix along with incorporation of soybean grits. All types of instant Upma mixes were found to be organoleptically acceptable. Taste of blanched pearl millet based instant Upma mix was liked very much by panelists. Proximate evaluation was evaluated with standard procedures of AOAC. Maximum amount of crude protein was analyzed in germinated pearl millet based instant Upma mix 15.79 g 100 g^-1, whereas maximum ash and crude fibre content in extrusion processed pearl millet based instant Upma mix i.e. 2.92 and 2.67 g 100 g^-1, respectively, gluten was not present in developed instant Upma mixes. Developed product will not only cater to nutritional needs of gluten intolerance sufferers but also lead to diversification in pearl millet utilization and availability of low cost alternative.

1 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

022904   Jha D N;Joshi K D;Tyagi R K (NO, Regional Centre, ICAR-CIFRI, 24-Pannalal Road, Allahabad-211 002, Email: dharmnath.jha@gmail.com) : Declined commercial catch of gangetic Indian major carps at Allahabad. J Inld Fish Soc India 2017, 49(1), 11-14.

Fish and fisheries of rivers are an important source of livelihood for the people inhabiting on its bank. Since multifarious stressors are operating on the river Ganga, tremendous alterations have been registered in its discharge, velocity, substratum, quality of the abiotic and biotic parameters. Due to these aberrations, the fish catch from the river Ganga has been declined and fishery of river has changed. Commercial fish catch of Indian major carp (IMC) from Ganga river system at Allahabad showed variations since 1955 to 2015. Since Ganga river system is known as original abode of IMC, hence there is need to propagate and conserve these species in the river system. The sizeable population of IMC in the river would also help the thousands of fishers residing along the river bank in augmentation of their livelihood security, as these species fetch lucrative price and highly demanded in the market by the fish eaters.

4 illus, 16 ref

022903   Jha A;Saxena R R;Verulkar S B (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, College of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur-492 012, Email: abhishek2298jha@gmail.com) : Correlation and path coefficient analysis of F₃ lines derived from a cross between Swarna Subl and IR 84984-83-15-862-B of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4B), 2093-6.

Experiments was conducted during kharif of 2014 with 55 F₃ lines derived from a cross between Swarna Subl and IR 84984-83-15-862-B or rice. Observations were recorded for 16 yields and yield attributing traits. The objective of this study was to verify direct and indirect effects of major yield contributing traits which will be used for the selection for grain yield in the segregating (F₃) generation. Sixteen traits were evaluated for correlation and path coefficient analysis. Highly significant positive correlation was observed grain yield with biological yield, number of panicles, number of tillers, harvest index and panicle length. Path coefficient analysis revealed that high positive direct effect on grain yield was caused by biological yield and harvest index. It also revealed that high indirect effect on grain yield was - 268 - shown by number of panicles and panicle length via biological yield. The results obtained from correlation and path analysis showed that the efficiency in the selection for grain yield in the segregating (F₃) generation of rice can be increased through practicing selection for panicle length, number of tillers, number of panicles, biological yield and harvest index.

2 tables, 9 ref

022902   Jha A;Mishra D K;Singh S K (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur, MP, Email: avinashjha149@gmail.com) : Principal component analysis in elite land races of maize (Zea Mays L.) genotypes. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4B), 2032-6.

The present investigation was performed for identification and ranking of elite land races of maize based on combination of various phenotypic traits. Out of total principal components, five principal components were consedered to be more important because they have more than one Eigen value that showed total variation among 64 maize genotypes under study. The PC₁ exhibited maximum variation 32.149%, PC₂ 18.275%, PC₃ 11.396%, PC₄ 7.481% and PC₅ showed 6.001% variability for traits under study i.e. five principal components exhibited about 75.302% variability among the traits studied. The PC₁ showed positive effect for the specific traits under study i.e. days to male flower initiation, days to female flower initiation, days to 50% male flowering, days to 50% female flowering, days to maturity, PC₂ was more related to seed yield per plant, ear weight, ear length, biological yield per plant, 100-grain weight, cob diameter and harvest index, PC₃ exhibited positive effect for plant height and ear height from ground. The component PC₄ was more related to number of rows/ear and number of prop roots where as PC₅ was more related with stem girth. From five PC values PC₁, PC₂ and PC₄ were found to be major yield attributing traits, however it was recorded that PC₃ and PC₅ was poorly contributing towards yield.

2 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

022901   Jeyamangalam F;Anupriya S (Physics Dep, Sarah Tucker College, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, Email: f.jeyamangalam@yahoo.com) : Effect of organic amendments on physical, chemical and physico-chemical properties of soil with pearl millet. J Ecofriendly Agric 2017, 12(1), 13-16.

The experiment conducted at Perumalpuram in Tirunelveli District of Tamil Nadu, South India to evaluate the effect of different organic manures and their combinations on various physical, chemical and physico-chemical properties of the soil and their impact - 267 - on the pearl millet revealed that the plots applied with of FYM + vermicompost @ 12.5 t ha^-1 yielded highest (4953 kg ha^-1) than the control (2791 kg ha^-1). The bulk density (BD), particle density (PD), pH and electrical conductivity (EC) decreased in all the combinations than the control. However, the percentage of water holding capacity (WHC), pore space (PS), saturated moisture (SM) and NPK content showed an increasing trend. Organic amendments in the proper combinations created good environment for growth and development of the crop and in reclaiming the soils.

1 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

022900   Jangra P;Sharma P;Singh A (Soil & Water Engineering Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: singhamandeepmt@gmail.com) : Evaluation of preparatory phase of IWMP implementation - case study from Haryana. Ann Agri Bio Res 2017, 22(1), 55-9.

Government of Haryana has been implementing the Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) of Government of India (GoI) since 2011-12. Currently, two batches (III & IV) of projects are under implementation under IWMP Haryana. This study was conducted to know the performance of the preparatory phase of the Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) in the six districts of Haryana state. The IWMP made an attempt to bring together the ideals of natural resource management and rural development through a decentralized, people driven participatory approach. This was implemented by conducting intensive ground level individual household surveys, village level meetings and using participatory techniques. In the present study, an attempt was made to analyse the performance of the programme in the preparatory phase in terms of target achieved in different activities like EPAs, SHGs and UGs formed, WCs formed, capacity building and DPR formation. From the present study, it was revealed that the EPAs, WC, SHGs were almost 100% achieved physically and financially in each of the districts. UGs were established only on paper only, although Sonipat and Palwal districts showed 100% achievement under UG formation. Awareness camps were provided at different levels such as district level, block level, SHG and UG level.

1 illus, 5 tables, 5 ref

022899   Jakhar D S;Lathwal O P;Deepak Kumar;Lohan S C (NO, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sirsa, Haryana, Email: dsjakhar@gmail.com) : An overview of ground water quality of Sirsa district in Haryana. Ann Agri Bio Res 2017, 22(1), 39-42.

Canal and ground water are the major sources of irrigation in district Sirsa of Haryana. Farmers are advised to get their ground water tested for safe use in agriculture and they usually bring water samples for testing to Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sirsa. An analysis of - 266 - test reports of 409 water samples received during the years 2011, 2012 and 2013 was carried out to characterize the water quality of tube-wells. The results showed that, on an average of three years' study, about 38, 28 and 25% water samples had an EC of 0.2-2.0, 2.1-4.0 and 4.1-8.0 dS/m, respectively. Few water samples (2-6%) recorded very high EC up to 16 dS/m. Majority of the water samples (85%) registered the CO₃^-2 cone, in the range of 0-2 me/1 and remaining samples had the CO₃^-2 cone, between 0.21 and 0.40 me/1, and even more. About 61% water samples exhibited the HC0₃^-1 cone, between 4 and 8 me/1. Some samples (16%) were reported to be having less HCO₃^-1 cone. (2-4 me/1) and higher cone. (8-12 me/1) was found in about 19% water samples. Similarly, the cone, of Cl^-1 was recorded to the tune of 0-10, 11-25 and >25 me/1 in 55, 47 and 15% water samples, respectively. The cations cone. (Ca⁺²+Mg⁺²) was 1-10 me/1 in about 66% water samples, though it was recorded up to 25 me/1 but in few samples only. Safe limit of RSC (2.5-3.5 me/1) was reported in 26% water samples followed by slightly higher RSC (3.6-4.5 me/1) in almost equal number of samples. In rest of the samples (48%), the RSC values were much more (4.6-9.5 me/1) with exceptional samples showing RSC even more than 9.6 me/1.

6 tables, 6 ref

022898   Jaikumaran U;Joseph S;Preman P S;Unnikrishnan C;Jitha K J;Joseph C J (Agricultural Research Station, Mannuthy, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur-680 651, Email: shyla.joseph@kau.in) : Design and development of sitting type coconut palm climbing device - "Kera Suraksha Coconut Climber". J trop Agric 2016, 54(2), 136-43.

Coconut climbing is considered as a traditional job of some backward communities in Kerala. The height of bearing coconut palm varies from 2 to 20 m. Climbing of coconut palm is difficult due to the height and non branching nature of the palm. Only a professional climber with proper training and skill is able to climb coconut palm. Due to the risk involved, people are not coming forward for climbing job and those who do claim high service charge. In order to overcome this situation, a sitting type coconut palm climbing device was designed and developed. Made of milk steel, it weighed 9.35 kg. Its field performance and ergonomic evaluation were conducted. The total time taken by the operator to climb a 12 m height palm using the developed climbing device was 3.16 minutes. The angle of inclination of the upper metal wire rope, lower metal wire rope and seat with horizontal was found to be below the safe value of 40°. The strength of wire rope used was tested for breakage and found fit. The bearing capacity of the materials and climbing device as a whole was found to be 165 kg and did not shown any failure. This device could easily be operated by any unskilled person and safety of the operator is assured during climbing.

5 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

022897   Jagtap D N;Mahadkar U V;Chavan S A (Agronomy Dep, College of Agriculture, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli-415 712, Email: mauli296@gmail.com) : Response of rice varieties to different sowing windows under konkan conditions. Agric Sci Dig 2017, 37(1), 78-80.

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season 2015-16 to study the response of rice varieties to different sowing windows under Konkan conditions. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications. The main plot treatments were three sowing windows, viz., 23rd Met Week, 24th Met Week, 25thMet Week. The sub plot treatments comprised five rice varietiesviz., Karjat-5, Palghar-1, Jaya, Swarna and Karjat-2. Thus there were 45 treatment combinations. Results revealed that rice crop sown on 23rd Met. Week recorded significantly higher grain yield (5782 kg ha^-1) and straw yield (6462 kg ha^-1). Long duration rice variety Swarna recorded the maximum grain yield (5782 kg ha^-1) as well as straw yield (6462 kg ha^-1), which was significantly higher over all other varieties under study except variety Jaya which was at par. From the present investigation it can be concluded that kharif rice in Konkan be sown during 23rd meteorological week with rice variety Swarna followed by conventional variety Jaya, so as to obtain higher yield and economic returns.

1 table, 12 ref

022896   Jacob J;Aleykutty N A;Harindran J (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, Mahatma Gandhi Univ, Kottayam, Kerala) : Evaluation of diuretic activity of dry ethanolic extract of leaves of Blepharis maderaspatensis (L.) B. Heyne ex Roth. J med Pl Stud 2018, 6(1), 34-5.

Blepharis maderaspatensis (L.) B. Heyne ex Roth is a creeping herb native to many parts in central and peninsular India. It has been reported to be used as a diuretic by tribals of Yavatmal district of Maharashtra, India. So in the current work the diuretic activity was evaluated using the lipschitz method. It was decided to test the efficacy of different extracts (petroleum ether (60-80 °C) extract, ethyl acetate extract and dry alcoholic extract) of Blepharis maderaspatensis (L.) B.Heyne ex Roth for the diuretic activity. The study was carried out at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight with the different extracts and results obtained showed that only the alcoholic extract showed diuretic activity. Further studies were carried out using the dry alcoholic extract only. Different doses of the extract, i.e., 200,400 and 600 mg/kg body weight were used for the diuretic evaluation study and results showed that the doses of 400 and 600mg/kg body weight yielded results almost at par with loop diuretic (Frusemide). It was seen that the dry alcoholic extract showed promising results with a lipschitz value of 1.4 and 1.44 for the medium as well as high doses. The tests are a conclusive evidence for the ethnobotanical study reports. Thus opening avenue for use of this drug as a potent diuretic.

1 table, 8 ref

022895   Islam S;Sharma R K;Chhokar R S;Dhar S;Sabir N;Chaturvedi K K;Singh R;Farooqi M S;Sharma K (NO, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi, Email: ms.farooqui@icar.gov.in) : Expert system for the identification and control of weeds in wheat crop. Ann agric Res 2017, 38(2), 127-35.

Effective weed management is important for a successful wheat production. Inadequate weed control can lead to significant yield loss and harvest problems. One of the pre-requisite of efficient weed management is proper weed identification so that suitable strategies are selected. An Expert System on Wheat Crop Management has been developed by ICAR-IASRI, New Delhi with the collaboration of ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, ICAR-IIDWR. Karnal and ICAR-NCIPM, New Delhi. This system has a crop protection module that carries a sub module on weed management. The module helps in identifying weeds and suggests treatment to minimize the production loss. The system carries information of about 23 major weeds affecting wheat crop and its management stored in its knowledge base. The system works as an information bank for wheat growing farmers that can help them in better crop management in order to enhance productivity and production of wheat in the country. The system is available at the URL http://www.iasri.res.in/wheat

9 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

022894   Isaac S R;Varghese J (NO, College of Agriculture, Vellayni, Thiruvananthapuram-695 522, Email: sheebarebecca@yahoo.co.in) : Allelopathic effects of homestead agroforestry tree leaf litter on the sprouting and early growth in elephant foot yam (Amorphophallus paeniifolius). Indian J For 2016, 39(3), 221-3.

The allelopathic effects of eight selected agroforestry tree litter on the sprouting and early growth of the understorey tuber crop, elephant foot yam (Amorphophallus paeniifolius) were examined during 2014-'15. Litter leachates at 2% concentration and litter mulch were used for the - 264 - study and it was found that the effects of litter mulch were significant on sprouting and seedling growth while with the leachate, significant effects were recorded only on shoot growth and leaf production. The effects varied with species, tamarind and wild jack recorded maximum inhibition both as leachate and mulch. Litter of rubber, mango and jack showed stimulatory effects thus bringing to light their potential to be used as organic inputs in elephant foot yam cultivation.

2 tables, 13 ref

022893   Indumathy K;Rajasekaran R;Suganthi N (Agricultural Extension Dep, Adhiparasakthi Agricultural College, G.B. Nagar, Kalavai, Vellore (Tamil Nadu), Email: induagri18@gmail.com) : Impact of uzhavar sandhai on livelihood empowerment of farmers. Agric Update 2016, 11(4), 374-9.

The study was conducted to assess the impact and decision alternatives of farmers towards uzhavar sandhai. Totally 7 uzhavarsandhais present in Vellore district, out of that 4 uzhavarsandhais were selected based on convenience sampling technique. The uzhavar sandhais were selected from four blocks of Vellore, Arcot, Ranipet and Katpadi. Totally 90 respondents were composed through random sampling method. A survey was conducted and interview schedule was used to collect the data. Based on the collected data, the variables were analysed by using SPSS software and the results are predicted. The results show that the majority of the farmers belong to middle age category. Majority (52.20%) of the respondents were marginal farmers who were holding the land size upto 2.5 acres. Half of the farmers were attending the market from the year 2000 onwards. Three fourth 75.00 per cent of the respondent's primary occupation was farming. Three fifth (73.00 %) of the respondents were having moderate accessibility with the uzhavar sandhai. Two fifth (68.9%) of the respondents were medium level decision alternatives followed by low level (18.90 %).

10 tables, 9 ref

022892   Ibrahimi F;Rana K S;Choudhary A K;Dass A; Ehsan Q;Noorzai A U (Agronomy Dep, Faculty of Plant Sciences, ANASTU, Kandahar, Afghanistan, Email: faizibrahimii@gmail.com) : Effect of varieties and planting geometry on growth, yield and profitability of Kharif mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilezek] in southern Afghanistan. Ann agric Res 2017, 38(2), 185-93.

An experiment was conducted at Tarnak Farm of Afghanistan National Agricultural Sciences and Technology University (ANASTU), Kandahar, Afghanistan during Kharif 2015 to assess the performance of mungbean varieties viz. Mai-2008, Mash-2008, NM-98 and local cultivar 'Kunduzy' in combination with 3 planting geometries (20x10, 30x10, and 40x10 cm) under semi-arid conditions of Kandahar. It was revealed that mungbean varieties and planting geometries showed significant differences for growth, morpho-physiological and yield parameters. Mash-2008 exhibited highest seed yield (2031 kg ha^-1) while Kunduzy led to lowest seed yield (1297 kg ha^-1). Mash-2008 yielded 7.8, 33 and 56% higher than Mai-2008, NM-94 and 'Kunduzy', respectively. Planting geometry of* 30x10 cm exhibited higher seed yield (1898 kg ha^-1) followed by 20x10 cm (1641 kg ha^-1). Mash-2008 produced maximum straw yield while 'Kunduzy' produced minimum straw yield. Highest gross (AFN 86665 ha^-1) and net returns (AFN 67672 ha^-1) and B: C ratio (4.56) were observed in Mash-2008. Among planting geometries, maximum gross and net returns and B: C ratio were observed in 30x10 cm spacing followed by 20x10 cm and 40x10 cm spacing. Overall, Mash-2008 under planting geometry of 30x10 cm led to higher growth, crop productivity and profitability followed by Mai-2008 at 30x10 cm spacing in Kharif mungbean crop under semi-arid conditions of Afghanistan.

2 illus, 3 - 263 -

022891   Hussain S S;Baba J A;Zubair M;Misgar F A (NO, Krishi Vigyan Kendra/Extension Training Centre/FMT (SKUAST), Malangpora, Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir) : Depth-wise distribution of different forms of nitrogen in apple growing soils of Pulwama district of Kashmir valley. Agric Update 2017, 12(1), 67-70.

Depth-wise distribution of different fractions of nitrogen in some selective sites (soil depths) of district Pulwama of Kashmir valley was studied. In all the soil profiles nitrogen fractions (forms) decreased with increase in depth except the fixed NH4-N which increased with decreased depth. Organic nitrogen showed high significant positive correlations with total nitrogen (r=0.987***), organic nitrogen decreased with depth while the fixed NH4-N increased and these two fraction were also showed highly significant correlation with each other (r=0.645***).

2 tables, 7 ref

022890   Hossain M M (College of Agriculture, Orissa University of Agriculture & Technology, OUAT, Orissa, Email: mijanhossain2000@gmail.com) : Response of rice blast fungus Pyricularia grisea to vitamins and in-vitro evaluation of biological agents against it. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4B), 2168-71.

Rice blast causes heavy losses in yield worldwide wherever rice is grown. The rice blast fungus Pyricularia grisea was isolated in the laboratory and its response to vitamins was investigated. Among the vitamins, biotin was found to be the best to support maximum growth of the fungus and next best was thiamine. Application of bio-control agents to protect the crop from the disease may be an alternative strategy to chemical control. In order to evaluate the efficacy of different bio-control agents in vitro against P. grisea, five different bio-agents such as Trichoderma viride, Trichoderma harzianum, Trichoderma koningii, Gliocladium virens and Pseudomonas fluorescens were used. The results revealed that both the fungal and bacterial bio-control agents retarded the mycelial growth of P. grisea significantly. T. koningii inhibited maximum mycelia growth of the test fungus followed by P. fluorescens.

2 tables, 8 ref

022889   Honnur R B;Yadahalli K B (Plant Pathology Dep, College of Agriculture, Hanumanamatti-581 115, Email: kbyadahalli@gmail.com) : Evaluation of fungicides against cowpea rust caused by Uromyces phaseoli var. vignae (Barcl.) Arth. in vitro and glasshouse conditions. J Ecofriendly Agric 2017, 12(1), 67-70.

The evaluation of four each of systemic, non-systemic fungicides and combi-products against cowpea rust revealed that hexaconazole 5 EC, propiconazole 25 EC at (0.1% and 0.15% concentrations) and zineb 68 WP + hexaconazole 5 EC (at 0.2% and 0.25% concentrations) were found very effective against rust pathogen. Similar results under in vitro condition on pea plants treated with seven fungicides viz., fenarimal, difenconazole, triadimefon, cyperconazole, flusilazole, henconazole and hexaconazole and two non-systemic, mancozeb and chlorothalonil fungicides, after being inoculated with Uromyces viciae fabae aeciospores for 72 hr, was reported by Gupta and Shyam (2000). Cyperconazole, flusilezole, penconazole and hexaconazole inhibited incidence and severity of rust on leaves completely. Mancozeb and chlorothalonil resulted in 22.91 and 38.75 per cent rust severity, respectively.

2 tables, 6 ref

022888   Himshikha;Singh C (Extension Div, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Email: bhhimshikha654@gmail.com ) : Socio-economic conditions of the farmers. Agric Update 2017, 12(1), 1-8.

Agroforestry empowers farmers to take risk in long term investments like growing tree species and/ or rearing livestock, fluctuation in price and increase or decrease in demand and supply of agri produces. To access socio-economic conditions of both agroforestry and non agroforestry farmers, a survey was conducted in Haridwar, India. To analyze it, data pertaining to socio-economic indicators such as income level and employment, family size and community structure like land holding value, land distribution and ownership type, housing characteristics and labour resources were collected and then compared. To elaborate this comparison more, some other factors like farming and agroforestry experience, decision making, knowledge, awareness and favor to agroforestry etc. were also studied. Results revealed that approximately 97.8 per cent of sampled households were male headed. Approximately 18.90 per cent agroforestry and 34.43 per cent non-agroforestry respondents were having less than 1 ha of land. About 75.62 per cent agroforestry farmers and 67.21 per cent non agroforestry farmers considered farming as main occupation. The higher income status in categories was found more (12.60% and 27.40%) in agroforestry respondents than (6.56% and 14.75%) in non agroforestry respondents. It was concluded that higher income status enables agroforestry farmers to live their live style according to their own choice, hence, encouraging them to adopt, continue or promote agroforestry in their field.

10 tables, 24 ref

022887   Hassan F;Mir M A (NO, T.S.R.I Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir) : Effect of Glyphodes pyloalis walker (pyralidae: lepidoptera) infested leaves on the commercial characters of silkworm hybrid (NB₄D₂ X SH₆)B. mori L.. J Ent Zool Stud 2018, 6(1), 20-2.

The study was conducted on silkworm larvae fed with infested leaves of two mulberry varieties viz Kokuso 20 and Goshoerami and also another lot of larvae were fed with fresh leaves of these varieties as a control. Student's t-test was applied for analysis of data. Observations were made on some commercial characters like larval duration, larval weight, cocoon yield, single cocoon weight, single shell weight, shell ratio and filament length. In all these observations, it was found that there was a more negative impact on the traits when the silkworm larvae were fed with infested Kokuso 20 leaves as compared to infested Goshoerami leaves. The minimum (2.52%) and maximum (22.47%) increase in larval duration were recorded in silkworms when they were fed with the Glyphodes pyloalis Walker infested leaves of kokuso-20 and Goshoerami respectively.

2 tables, 18 ref

022886   Harshlata;Tomar G S;Sai S (Agronomy Dep, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh) : Effect of planting density and levels of nitrogen on ethanol production of sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench) varieties. Pharma Innovation 2018, 7(2), 4-7.

A field experiment was conducted during rainy season, 2015 at the Research -cum-Instructional Farm, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidylaya, Raipur (Chhattisgarh) to assess the potentiality of sweet sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] varieties under different planting densities and levels of N fertilizers. The results revealed that the juice extraction, juice extractability, juice yield, brix value and ethanol production were significantly influenced by varieties, levels of nitrogen and planting densities. Sweet sorghum variety SSV-84 registered significantly higher ethanol yield (404.10 L ha^-1) with higher juice extraction (27.24%), extractability (269.80 ml kg^-1), juice yield (6691.56 L ha^-1 with greater brix value (16.62) compared to CSV 24SS. Plant density of 13.33 plants m-2 gave maximum amount of juice (7283.96 L ha^-1) along with higher juice extraction (28.52%), extractability (282.65 ml kg^-1) as well as ethanol yield (401.89 L ha^-1) in comparison to lower planting density. Among different levels of N fertilizers, application of nitrogen at 120 kg N ha^-1 recorded the highest juice yield (7578.93 L - 261 - ha^-1), juice extraction (27.09%), extractability (271.12 ml kg^-1), brix value (18.75 as well as ethanol yield (473.89 L ha^-1) being significantly higher than other levels of nitrogen.

1 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

022885   Harish Kumar;Singh A K;Singh P (Precision Farming Development Center, Agricultural Research Center, S. K. Rajasthan Agricultural Univ, Beechwal, Bikaner-334 006, Email: harishgajra30@gmail.com) : Effect of fertigation on yield attributes and economics of cucumber (Cucumus sativus L.) under polyhouse. Ann Agri Bio Res 2017, 22(2), 275-7.

An experiment was conducted in polyhouse established at Precision Farming Development Center, Agricultural Research Center, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Beechwal, Bikaner during the year August 2014 to March 2015 and two crops of cucumber were taken. The experiment was carried out in randomized block design with six replications. The experiment consisted of three fertigation levels 75, 100 and 125% recommended dose of fertilizer and one treatment of 100% recommended dose of fertilizer as farmer practice or conventional method for application of fertilizer. Results obtained from the experiment showed that the fertigation level of 100% RDF gave significantly higher average fruit weight, yield, net returns and B: C ratio, whereas maximum number of fruit was found under fertigation level of 125% RDF. Yield attributes and economics were found minimum under farmers' practice method.

2 tables, 6 ref

022884   Gurumurthy B R;Swathi H C;Sahana J;Nataraj S P (Crop physiology Dep, Univ of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Navile, Shivamogga-577 225, Email: swathicng@gmail.com) : Studies on variation in arecoline content of arecanuts collected from different parts of Karnataka. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(2), 691-5.

Arecoline is a nicotinic acid-based alkaloid found in the areca nut, the fruit of the areca palm (Areca catechu). It is an oily liquid that is soluble in water, alcohols, - 260 - and ether. HPLC method is simple and rapid for determination of arecoline content in areca nut. Areca samples were collected from Shimoga, Davanagere, Chikkamagalur, Chitradurga, Dakshina kannada and Udupi districts of Karnataka, India. The collected areca samples were powdered and arecoline is extracted from samples collected from different hoblies of the districts. The extraction method was optimized to obtain pure arecoline before analysis to separate any interference in order to maximize the specificity and sensitivity of the method. The regionwise arecoline content has been compared. The concentration of arecoline varied from area to area depending on environmental factors, differential processing methods, age of the plantations, varietal differences etc.

2 tables, 2 ref

022883   Guru P N;Patil C S (Entomology Dep, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Dist: - Ahmednagar, Maharashtra) : Dissipation studies of triazophos in/on polyhouse grown capsicum and cropped soil. J Ent Zool Stud 2018, 6(1), 12-16.

The dissipation pattern and to recommend the Pre Harvest Interval (PHI) of triazophos in/on capsicum was studied after application of insecticide at fruit initiation stage. Triazophos @ 500 and 1000 g a.i. ha-1 was applied twice at an interval of 10 days. The initial residues deposit was 3.17 and 6.13 mg kg^-1 respectively, and it was dissipated according to first order kinetics at both the dosages to Below Quantification Limit (BQL) at 20th and 25th day, respectively @ 500 and 1000 g a.i. ha-1. The half-life recorded was 2.95 and 2.63, respectively at recommended and double the recommended dose, respectively, whereas the cropped soil leaves with no residues. Considering the LOQ of 0.05 mg kg^-1, Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI) of twenty days can be suggested for triazophos for safe consumption of capsicum fruits grown under polyhouse.

2 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

022882   Gurav K V;Nigade R D (NO, Zonal Agricultural Research Station (NARP), Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Email: kumargurav11@yahoo.in) : Knowledge and adoption of recommended ratoon management practices by the sugarcane growers. Agric Update 2016, 11(4), 446-8.

The efforts were made to study the knowledge and adoption of ratoon management practices by the sugarcane cultivators from Kolhapur district of Maharashtra. The study was undertaken in purposively selected Karveer tahsil of Kolhapur district of Maharashtra in the year 2008. It is observed that most of the respondents had knowledge in respect of MPKV recommended ratoon management practices like arrangement of sugarcane trash in the furrows (100.00%), stubble shaving (100.00 %), spraying of 0.1 per cent bavistin on stubbles (96.00%), application of decomposing material (86.00 %) and application of 1st dose of chemical fertilizers (92.00%). Adoption of recommended ratoon management practices reveal that level of adoption was less as compared to their level of knowledge.

2 tables, 5 ref

022881   Gupta A;Sarangi A;Singh D K (Agricultural Engineering Dep, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: ajitagupta2012@gmail.com) : Estimation of crop coefficients adn water productivity of mustard (Brassica juncea) under semi-arid conditions. Curr Sci 2017, 113(2), 264-71.

Experiment was conducted using weighing-type field lysimeters to determine single and dual crop coefficients (K_c) and to estimate water productivity of mustard (Brassica juncea) cultivar, Pusa Vijay (NPJ-93) during rabi 2013-14 and 2014-15. It was observed that the single crop coefficient (K_c) during rabi 2013- 14 was 0.39, 0.72, 1.02 and 0.5 for initial, development, mid and late stages respectively. While in dual K_c the value of K_cb (basal crop coefficient) was 0.19, 0.55, 0.91 and 0.24 for the four stages, respectively. During rabi - 259 - 2014-15, the single K_c was 0.36, 0.63, 1.04 and 0.44 and for dual K_c the value of K_cb was 0.17, 0.46, 0.91 and 0.23 for four stages respectively. Relationship between K_cb and leaf area index as well as between K_cb and growing degree days was also established. Water productivity was estimated to be 14.9 kg/ha-mm corresponding to grain yield of 2.34 t ha^-1 with 157 mm of total irrigation water applied during rabi 2013-14. Whereas during rabi 2014-15, water productivity was 15.4 kg/ha-mm with grain yield of 2.89 t ha^-1 with 187 mm depth of applied irrigation. Nonetheless, the estimated crop coefficients of mustard can be used for judicious irrigation scheduling in order to enhance water productivity in semi-arid environment.

4 illus, 13 tables, 25 ref

022880   Gulnara V;Ruslan I;Evilina I (NO, Ufa institute of biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Ufa, 450054 Russia) : Features of the arg-x proteolysis localization in the conditions of deacetylation inhibition of the cell nuclei proteins of germs spring wheatand winter wheat. Int J agric biol Res 2017, 33(2), 229-35.

In the work it is shown that the activity of Arg-X proteolysis in trypsin-like complexes extracted from non-histone and histone blocks of suprastructures (nucleoplasm, chromatin, nuclear matrix), of cell nuclei of 24h germs of spring wheat and transformed from it winter wheat has its own differences. It is suggested that the revealed features of Arg-X proteolysis may be associated with the assembly of nucleosomes and possibly nucleosome control of gene expression.

1 illus, 21 ref

022879   Gulkari K D;Chauhan N B;Onima V T (College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural Univ, VASO, Gujarat, Email: krunalgulkari@yahoo.in) : Constraints faced by the banana growers in adoption of risk management practices in drip irrigated banana cultivation. Agric Update 2017, 12(1), 84-8.

The study to know constraints faced by the banana growers in adoption of risk management practices in drip irrigated banana cultivation was conducted on a random sample of 220 drip irrigated banana growers in Anand district of Gujarat state. The data were collected by personal contacts.Major economic problems faced by the banana growers in management of risk in drip irrigated banana cultivation were heavy cost of installation of drip irrigation system, high cost of fuel to use engines for irrigation and high cost of spare parts of drip irrigation system. As far as technological constraints faced by the banana growers were lack of sufficient electricity, problem of salty ground water and difficulty in interculturing operations. Non-availability of quality material of DIS with reasonable rates, lack of technical guidance from company agent in time and delay in sanction of loan and subsidy were the major administrative constraints faced by the banana growers. Whereas, in case of marketing related constraints faced by the banana growers were absences of support price during glut in the market, high cost of transportation and lack of timely information regarding demand and supply of the produce. Personal and socio-psychological constraints faced by the farmers in management of risk during drip irrigated banana cultivation were lack of knowledge about schedule of water soluble fertilizers application, lack of knowledge about use of fertilizers, liquid fertilizers, GR etc. and lack of knowledge about plant protection of banana crop. While, lack of knowledge about export procedure, lengthy procedures and formalities for export of produce and lack of knowledge about minimum residual level of chemical were the major export related constraints faced by the banana growers in drip irrigated banana cultivation.

1 table, - 258 - 

022878   Goyal R;Uike V;Verma H (Horticulture Research Farm Dep, R.A.K. College of Agriculture, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishw, Sehore-466 001, Email: hemlataverma5@gmail.com) : Effect of foliar application of micronutrients on growth and yield of onion (Allium cepa L.) c.v. agri found dark red. Agric Sci Dig 2017, 37(2), 160-2.

A field experiment was conducted to determine the effect of foliar application of micronutrients on growth and yield of onion (Allium cepa L.) cv. Agri found dark red during kharif season of 2014-2015 at Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, R. A.K. College of Agriculture, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Sehore (M.P.). The experiment was laid out in randomized completely block design with three replications. The treatments consists of foliar sprays of 4 micronutrients, viz., Zn, Mn, B and Cu alone and in combination T₁-Zn (0.5%), T₂-Mn (1.0%), T₃-B (0.25%), T₄-Cu(1.0%), T₅-Zn + Mn (0.5 + 1.0%), T₆-Zn + B(0.5 + 0.25%), T₇-Zn + Cu (0.5 + 1.0%), T₈-Zn+ Mn+ B+ Cu (0.5 + 1.0 + 0.25 + 1.0%), T₉-Control. Treatment T₃-B (0.25%) was recorded the maximum 394.86 q ha^-1 bulb yield followed by T₈ Zn+ Mn+ B+ Cu (0.5 + 1.0 + 0.25 + 1.0%) 333.32 q ha^-1. Highest net return of Rs 3, 45, 355 ha^-1 with benefit cost ratio 7.98 was obtained in treatment T₃-B (0.25%).

2 tables, 10 ref

022877   Gowtham M S;Manjula N (Agricultural Extension Education Dep, College of Agriculture, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, Email: drmnuasd@gmail.com) : Impact of drip irrigation on sugarcane growers. Agric Update 2016, 11(4), 427-9.

The study was conducted during 2015 among sugarcane growers of Belagavi district of Karnataka. The results revealed that the average yield of sugarcane among drip adopters was high 53.60 t/ac compared to non-adopters of drip 44.80 t/ac indicating 8.80 difference. The average per acre income of the adopters of drip irrigation was high Rs. 72350/- compared to non-adopters Rs. 53580/-, indicating the difference of Rs. 18770/-. The results also revealed that advantages experienced by drip adopters, cent per cent of adopters expressed that drip irrigation saves water, decreased weed growth (86.66%), uniform distribution of water (83.33%) and decrease in labour requirement (76.66%).

3 tables, 6 ref

022876   Govindaraj M;Masilamani P;Albert V A; Bhaskaran M (Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agriculture Univ, Kumulur-621 712, Email: go87muthu@gmail.com) : Role of antioxidant in seed quality. Agric Rev 2017, 38(3), 180-90.

Antioxidant is any substance that delays, prevents or removes oxidative damage to a target molecule. This includes compounds of a non-enzymatic as well as an enzymatic nature. Antioxidant enzymes e.g., superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase, which catalyze free radical quenching reaction. Nutrient-derived antioxidants like ascorbic acid (vitamin C), tocopherols and tocotrienols (vitamin E), carotenoids and other low molecular weight compounds such as glutathione and lipoic acid are involved in neutralizing free radicals. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) occur in tissues and cells and can damage DNA, proteins, carbohydrates and lipids. The ROS comprises both free radical (O_2-, superoxide radicals; OH-, hydroxyl radical; HO₂-, perhydroxy radical and RO-, alkoxy radicals) and non-radical (molecular) forms (H₂O₂, hydrogen peroxide and - 257 - ¹O₂, singlet oxygen). These deleterious reactions are controlled in part by antioxidants that eliminate ROS and scavenge free radicals. Various abiotic stresses lead to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plants which are highly reactive and toxic and cause damage to proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and DNA which ultimately results in oxidative stress. Seed priming methods have been used to increase germination characteristics under stress conditions. The beneficial effects of seed priming are associated with different physiological and biochemical changes.

^iia7 tables, 92 ref

022875   Goswami P K;Begum M;Bordoloi B C;Sinha D D (NO, Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore-641 007, Email: mahimabegum25@rediffmail.com) : CoBln 04174: A promising high yielding variety for north east under rainfed upland condition. Agric Sci Dig 2017, 37(2), 145-7.

A promising midlate maturing sugarcane variety, CoBln 04174 was developed at Sugarcane Research Station, Buralikson, Assam from the general collection of C 79180 through clonal selection. The variety was tested in the AICRP trial under different discipline and on farm trials of different agro climatic zones of Assam. The variety CoBln 04174 recorded an average cane yield of 65.54t/ha and sugar yield of 7.63 t/ha with an improvement of 4.58% for cane yield and 3.52% CCS yield over the best standard CoSe 92423 across the centres in two plant crop and one ratoon crop. Besides this, the variety CoBln 04174 recorded average cane yield of 70.4 t/ha which is 22.26% higher over the best standard CoP 9301 (57.58t/ha) in the trials conducted at Sugarcane Research Station, Buralikson. The variety was moderately susceptible to red rot but moderately resistant to borer insect of sugarcane. The variety CoBln 04174 has been identified for release in North Eastern Zone.

5 tables, 4 ref

022874   Gore-Dhalpe N D;Dawane V T (Extension Education Dep, College of Agriculture, Phaltan, Maharashtra, Email: ndhalpe2010@gmail.com) : Study of extent of knowledge and use of various information and communication technologies by scientists, teachers and extension workers in state agriculture universities. Agric Update 2016, 11(4), 369-73.

The study on ICT was conducted in Akola district of Maharashtra State. Data were collected from 120 scientists, teachers and extension workers in state agriculture universities. It is found that majority of the respondents 54.17 per cent possessed high level of knowledge about ICT about, 45.00 per cent of respondents had high level of use of ICT about, 75.00 per cent of respondents using ICT facilities for communication with other scientists and about 74.17 per cent of respondents using ICT facilities for computer information retrieval or data updating.

7 tables, 39 ref

022873   Gopal T;Yadav R A;Singh A (Agronomy Dep, Chandra Sekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur-208 002, Email: agabhi92@gmail.com) : Impact of herbicides on growth, yield and yield attributing characters of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Crop Res 2017, 52(1-3), 10-13.

A field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2012-13 at Students' Instructional Farm of Chandra Sekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh to evaluate the effect of herbicides metsulfuron-methyl, carfentrazon-ethyl and clodinafop under sole as well as combination with sulfosulfuron and clodinafop fb metsulfuron on wheat growth, yield and yield attributing characters. Among herbicides, maximum plant population and dry matter (60 and 90 DAS) production were found under the treatment sulfosulfuron fb carfentrazone (25 and 15, and 25 and 10 g a. i./ha, respectively). The maximum plant height among herbicides was recorded under sulfosulfuron fb metsulfuron. Herbicide sulfosulfuron fb carfentrazone (15 g a. i./ha) recorded numerically higher values of number of tillers/m² and effective tillers/m². However, the herbicidal treatment sulfosulfuron (25 g a. i..ha) + carfentrazon (15 g a. i./ha) recorded significantly highest grain yield of wheat (46.65 q/ha) over unweeded plot, followed by sulfosulfuron (25 g a. i./ha) fb carfentrazon (15 g a. i./ha) (46.50 q/ha). All the yield attributing characters viz., grain weight per ear, number of earheads/m², number of spikelets/ear and 1000-grain weight were also maximized under sulfosulfuron (25 g a. i./ha) + carfentrazon (10 - 256 - g a. i./ha) treatment.

2 tables, 9 ref

022872   Gondkar S S;Joshi V;Varpe S;Chaudhari P (Agricultural Extension Dep, College of Agri-buasiness Management, Loni, Maharashtra) : Socio-economic characteristics and knowledge level of mango growers on plant protection measures in Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra. Agric Update 2017, 12(1), 137-41.

In research study conducted on mango growers in Kokan region of Maharashtra state with the major objectives of measuring the socio-economic characteristics and knowledge level of mango growers on plant protection measures. It was observed that the more than half (52.50 %) of the respondents were in middle age group, having (65.00 %) secondary to higher secondary level of education and medium size of land holding (61.66 %). More than half of the (57.50 %) of the respondents possessed 2 to 10.9 ha. of land under mango cultivation, medium size of family (54.16 %), having low to medium level of income (79.16 %) and medium level of experience in mango cultivation (77.50 %). Nearly three fourth (70.00 %) of the respondents had medium social participation, majority of respondents i.e. 71.66 per cent had medium level of mass media exposure, nearly two third (67.50 %) of the respondents had medium level risk orientation, majority of them had (84.16 %) good level of change proneness and majority of respondent had medium level of achievement motivation and economic motivation (64.16 % and 37.50 %), respectively. The majority of mango growers (65.83 %) had 'medium' level of knowledge about plant protective measures indicating need for training in this aspect of cultivation.

2 tables, 12 ref

022871   Gogoi P;Phookan D B (Horticulture Dep, Assam Agricultural Univ, Jorhat-785 013, Email: parkeygogoi28@gmail.com) : Response of knol khol (Brassica oleracea L. var. gongylodes) to different organic amendments and microbial consortium. J Ecofriendly Agric 2018, 13(1), 15-8.

The performance of Knol khol (Brassica Oleracea L. var. gongylodes) var. White Vienna was evaluated in different organic amendments along with microbial consortium during 2014-15 and 2015-16. There were eight treatments consisting of T₁ (Microbial consortium + Rock phosphate), T₂ (T₁ + 2.5 t ha^-1 compost), T₃ (T₁ + 5 t ha^-1 compost), T₄ (T₁ + 2.5 t ha^-1 Vermicompost), T₅ (T₁ + 5 t ha^-1 Vermicompost), T₆ (Enriched compost 2.5 t ha^-1), T₇ (Enriched compost 5 t ha^-1) and T₈ (Recommended dose of fertilizer). The highest yield of 191.45 q ha^-1 was recorded in conventional treatment, while among the organic treatments, T₇ (Enriched compost 5 t ha^-1) recorded the highest yield (169.73 - 255 - q ha^-1) and other yield attributing parameters. The lowest yield attributing characters were exhibited by T₁ (Rock phosphate + Consortium). On quality parameters, the organic treatments exhibited superior results, when compared to inorganic treatments.

4 tables, 19 ref

022870   Giri A K;Bhan M;Agrawal K K (College of Agricultural Engineering, JNKVV, Jabalpur-482 004, Email: bhan.manish@gmail.com) : Districtwise wheat and rice yield predictions using meteorological variables in eastern Madhya Pradesh. J Agrometeorol 2017, 19(4), 366-8.

District wise rice and wheat yield prediction equations were developed for seven district of eastern Madhya Pradesh using weekly weather data from 1980-2009. The coefficient of determination (R²) varied between 0.4 - 0.78 for rice and 0.6 - 0.92 for wheat in different districts. Model performance was evaluated with dependent reported data for year 2010 and 2011. As the deviations for both the years were less than ± 15 per cent, the models can be used for predicting the rice and wheat yields in Madhya Pradesh.

3 tables, 6 ref

022869   Ghule M R;Sawant I S;Sawant S D (NO, ICAR-National Research Centre for Grapes, Manjri Farm Post, Solapur Road, Pune-412 307, Email: indulika18@yahoo.co.in) : Eco-friendly methods for management of downy mildew of grapevines. J Ecofriendly Agric 2018, 13(1), 80-4.

Leaf disc sensitivity assay showed that EC₅₀ value of P. viticola isolates against chitosan was 64.70 ± 12.76 μg I^-1 and in field trial foliar applications of chitosan significantly provided 57 per cent control of downy mildew on grape leaves and 70 per cent control on bunch. Three integrated disease management schedules were prepared and implemented in field by substituting 6 fungicide applications with soil application of ISR strains of Trichoderma and Bacillus or foliar application of chitosan or by reduction of 7 fungicide applications by use of activated potassium salt of long chain phosphorus (APSP) with multisite low risk fungicides. The field trial showed that all the schedules were equally effective as farmers' practice for disease control even with 6 -7 less fungicide applications. In schedule 2 Bacillus DR-92 recorded more number of bunches and yield per vine, while in schedule 3 with chitosan had better shelf-life. This study brings out the possibility of integrating soil application of microorganisms, with foliar applications of APSP and chitosan along with need based application of low risk fungicides indicates potential for management of fungicide resistance and fungicide residues in vineyards.

1 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

022868   Ghosh A;Singh V J;Gampala S;Chakraborti S K (Seed Science and Technology Dep, BCKV, Mohanpur-741 252, Email: atreyeeghosh2014@gmail.com) : Role of polymer seed coating in controlling seed deterioration and maintaining pod and alpha amylase activity in rice (Oryza sativa). Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4B), 2088-92.

Seed deterioration is a problem particularly in tropical country like India where controlling seed deterioration is a great challenge. Present investigation was under taken to study role of polymer as seed coating towards controlling seed deterioration and also study the role of peroxidase activity and alpha amylase activity for understanding seed deterioration. Five aromatic rice genotypes were undertaken and treated with different doses of polymer and one control. Peroxidase activity of polymer treated population T₃ and T₂ recorded highest value and control with lowest value. Among the varieties Gobindobhog responded best for peroxidase activity. V x T interaction after nine months storage recorded significant positive value in case of T₁V₃, T₁V₄, T₂V₃ and T₃V₂ indicating polymer seed treatment could protect the seed from deterioration by increasing peroxidase activity. Higher alpha amylase activity was found for T₃ followed by T₂ indicating seed treatment preparing the plant to fight against abiotic stress. Study to Electrical Conductivity value which indicates the rate of seed deterioration, the seeds treated with polymer was found to be significantly controlled in case of seeds which were treated with T₂ followed by T₁. Among the varieties V₁ responded best followed by V₃ and V₄. V x T interaction indicated significant difference for T₁V₁, T₂V₁ followed by T₂V₃ and T₁V₃. In paper packets seeds treated with polymer recorded low electrical conductivity value for T₂ followed by T₁ indicating lowest seed deterioration rate which was effectively contributed by different doses of polymer. Form this finding peroxidase activity and alpha amylase activity can be taken as biochemical indicator for seed deterioration and it can be recommended to the farmers to treat seeds of different aromatic rice genotypes with 0.2 ml of polymer per kg seed for better storage.

3 tables, 10 ref

022867   Ghosh A;Singh V J;Gampala S;Chakraborti S K (Seed Science and Technology Dep, BCKV, Mohanpur-741 252, Email: atreyeeghosh2014@gmail.com) : Effect of sequential seed coating of thiomethoxisan (Cruizer) and polymer on seed quality and yield parameters or rice (Oryza sativa). Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4B), 2084-7.

Sequential seed coating with thiomethoxisam and polymer significantly increased soil emergence in - 253 - case of T₁V₁, T₂V₁, T₃V₁ and T₃V₅ than control. Seed quality parameter, germination percent was significantly increased in case of all the treatments and V₁, V₂ responded best towards this sequential seed coating. Significant increase of plant height was also recorded in case of T₁V₂, T₁V₃, T₂V₁, T₂V₃ and T₃V₃. Number of panicles/plant was also significantly increased in case of T₁V₁, T₃V₃, T₁V₄ and T₃V₁. For the character seed yield/plant, sequential seed coating increased significantly in case of T₁V₁, T₁V₄, T₂V₄, T₂V₅, T₃V₄ and T₃V₅ than control. Sequential seed coating recorded its positive response in modifying germination percent, field emergence, plant height, number of spikelets/panicle and yield/plant.

3 tables, 7 ref

022866   Gayakawad P S;Evoor S;Mulge R;Nagesh G C; Reshmika P K;Rathod V (Vegetable Science Dep, K.R.C. College of Horticulture, Univ of Hort Sciences Bagalkot, Arabhavi-591 218, Email: parashuramsg624@gmail.com) : Combining ability analysis for characters related to earliness and yield in bottle gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.]. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4B), 2097-2100.

The present investigation was undertaken to study the combining ability of parents and crosses for fruit yield and earliness parameters in bottle guard using 36 hybrids involving 12 lines and three testers in line x tester fashion. Out of 15 lines only three lines viz., IC421962, IC342078 and NBBL-12 were identified as good general combiners for fruit yield per vine and fruit yield per hectare. Similarly the crosses viz., NBBL-12 x PS, IC421962 x PSPL and IC308564 A x PSPL were identified as the good specific combiner for earliness, fruit yield per vine and fruit yield per hectare.

3 tables, 11 ref

022865   Gajbhiye R C;Salvi S P;Pawar S N;Haldavanekar P C (NO, Regional Fruit Station, Vengurle-416 516, Dist. Sindhudurg, Maharashtra) : Performance of cashew cv. Venurla-4 under organic management. J Ecofriendly Agric 2017, 12(2), 12-15.

An experiment was conducted to study the performance of cashew cv. Venurla-4 under organic management during 2015-16 at RFRS, Vegurle, Maharashtra in Randomized Block Design with three replications and eight treatments. Treatments comprises of different source of manures which were applied in June. Among the different manures, application of 100 per cent N as Vermicompost + BCF produced ighest nut yield of cashew cv. Vengura-4 (6.92 kg tree^-1 and 1.41 t ha^-1) with comparatively good shelling percentage (30.32%), cashew apple TSS (17.3°B) and export grade kernel count (189.3 lb^-1). Maximum apple juice percentage (74.0%) was observed when organic residue was recycled with addition of 20 per cent cow dung slurry. Available soil N content after harvest was noted maximum with application 50 per cent N as FYM + BCF + Rock phosphate,, available P₂O₅ when organic residue recycled with the addition of 20 per cent cow dung slurry and available K₂O in green leaf manuring + planting cowpea.

2 tables, 15 ref

022864   Gaikwad J H;Lalhriatpuii V (Extension Education Dep, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra) : Constraints faced by anthurium gowers in aizawl district of Mizoram state. Agric Update 2016, 11(4), 365-8.

The study was conducted with 120 anthurium growers in Aizawl district of Mizoram state. The study revealed that majority of the anthurium growers faced constraints like investment problem, lack of working capital, lack of planting material and - 252 - manure; insufficiency of electricity, high cost of labour, lack of skilled labour, non-availability of labour, pest and disease management problem, transportation problem, lack of storage facilities, price fluctuation and lack of market knowledge. The entrepreneurial behaviour was positively and significantly related with area under polyhouse, annual income and marketing behaviour at 0.001 level of probability, education, total landholding, extension contact and mass media exposure had positive and significant relationship with entrepreneurial behaviour at 0.05 level of probability, whereas age had negative and non-significant relation with the entrepreneurial behaviour.

2 tables, 4 ref

022863   Fathima T;Sharma N;Sharma Y K;Srivastava R; Shukla P K (Botany Dep, Lucknow Univ, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Email: tahseenf787@gmail.com) : Compatibility of insecticides and botanicals on Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo). J Ecofriendly Agric 2017, 12(1), 100-2.

The study carried out at Mycology and Plant Pathology laboratory, University of Lucknow during 2015-16 revealed that the growth media impregnated with recommended concentration of imidacloprid, allowing the highest radical growth (70.2 mm) an "maximum spore count per ml of spore suspension (297.2) of B. bassiana, next only to the untreated control at 76.0 and 332.2, respectively after 30 days of inoculation, proved comparatively most compatible. Tobacco extract with 50.0 mm radical growth and 295.2 ml-1 spore appeared next best in the compatability test with B. bassiana.

^ssc1 table, 15 ref