022862   Elaloui M;Laamouri I S A;Ennajah A;Houcine S (NO, Institut National des Recherches en Genie Rural, Eau, Forets (INRGREF), rue Hedi Karray, Elmenzeh IV, BP 10, 2080, Ariana, Tunisian, Email: maryoumaa2000@yahoo.fr) : Allelopathic activity of extracts from leaves of Ziziphus spina-christi collected in five tunisian ecotypes. Int J agric biol Res 2017, 33(2), 199-212.

This work was performed to investigate the allelopathic activity of leaf extracts from Ziziphus spina-christi collected in five Tunisian ecotypes (INRGREF, Tozeur, Deguech: Nafta and Kebeli). The allelopathic effect of aqueous extracts of Triticum durum L. and Raphanus sativus L. revealed that the majority of extracts significantly inhibited (p <60>0.05) seedling development. Aqueous extracts from the leaves collected from Nafta showed the best results of inhibition of the root (90.699% and 89.92%) and the shoot lengths (88.17% and 85.29%) for Triticum durum and Raphanus sativus respectively. By against a very weak inhibition of seed germination was observed for both species. The inhibitory effect of these extracts occurs much more on the root length. Considerable differences in total phenolic contents (860.20 μgEAG/gDW) were found. The Ziziphus spina-christi leaf extracts could justify the use of this specie as an herbicide and can give a great success in agriculture.

7 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

022861   Ehsan Q;Rana D S;Choudhary A K (Agronomy Dep, Faculty of Plant Sciences, Afghanistan National Agricultural Science a, Kandahar, Afghanistan, Email: qudrat.ehsan@yahoo.com) : Effect of crop establishment methods and phosphorus nutrition on growth and productivity of mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilcek) in semi-arid Afghanistan. Ann agric Res 2017, 38(2), 200-7.

A field experiment was conducted at Experimental Farm of Afghanistan National Agricultural Sciences and Technology University (ANASTU), Kandahar, Afghanistan during July to September, 2015 comprised of 8 treatment combinations using two planting methods (broadcast and line-sowing) and four phosphorus levels (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1) in a sandy-clay loam soil to assess the growth, morpho-physiological and yield parameters, and yield of mungbean in a split-plot design replicated thrice. It was revealed that line-sowing exhibited significantly higher values of growth parameters (plant height, leaf area index, dry matter accumulation, branches plant^-1), growth indices (absolute growth rate, crop growth rate, relative growth rate, net assimilation rate), root growth parameters (root dry weight plant^-1, root nodules plant^-1 and root length plant^-1), yield attributes, and grain (1284 kg ha^-1) and straw yield (2943 kg ha^-1) of mungbean over broadcast-sowing. Likewise, the successive increase in phosphorus levels upto 60 kg - 251 - P₂O₅ ha^-1 resulted in significantly higher growth attributes, growth indices, root growth parameters, yield attributes and grain and straw yield of mungbean compared to rest of the P₂O₅ levels. In general, the highest grain yield (1420 kg ha^-1) recorded with 60 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 which was 8.5, 7.6 and 67.5% higher over 30 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1, 90 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 and control, respectively. Overall, line-sowing alongwith 60 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 can be recommended to harness higher growth and productivity of Kharif mungbean in semi-arid conditions of Afghanistan.

6 tables, 9 ref

022860   Dwibedi S K;De G C;Dhua S R (NO, Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, Odisha, Email: sudhiranjan@gmail.com) : Correlation between vegetative parameters and yield with weed biomass of kharif rice genotypes at varying dates of sowing and systems of cultivation in coastal Odisha. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4B), 2063-7.

The field experiments to study the correlation between the vegetative parameters and yield with the weed biomass of kharif rice genotypes at varying dates of sowing and systems of cultivation were undertaken in coastal Odisha during kharif of 2009 and 2010. These were laid out in split split-plot design with 20 June, 5 July and 20 July sowing in the main plots; Best Management Practice (BMP), System of Rice Intensification (SRI) and Modified SRI (MSRI) in sub-plots and two genotypes of rice i.e. hybrid Ajay and cv Tapaswini in the sub sub-plots, giving rise to 18 treatment combinations that were replication thrice. Weed biomass at 40 DAS decreased significantly with delay in sowing beyond 20 June due to suppression of weeds with monsoonal rain water at subsequent dates. The grain and straw yields also followed this trend. SRI had the highest weed biomass followed by MSRI and BMP. But, the grain and straw yields were the highest in MSRI followed by SRI BMP. Hybrid Ajay, apart from its genetic potential, could perform better with higher grain yield than HYV Tapaswini due to lesser weed infestation at active vegetative stage. There were high and significant positive correlations between dry matter of rice with plant height, leaf and tiller number, LAL, root volume and depth at 40 DAS. The weed biomass and grain yield were significantly and positively correlated with that of all the vegetative parameters under consideration. However, there was no such significant correlation between weed biomass and straw yield of rice.

3 tables, 5 ref

022859   Dutta S S;Tyagi W;Rai M (School of Crop Improvement, College of Post-Graduate Studies, Central Agricultural Univ (Imphal), Umiam-793 103, Email: mrai.cau@gmail.com) : Physiological and molecular response to low light intensity in rice. Agric Rev 2017, 38(3), 209-15.

Rice being the staple food of the world, its production is of immense importance. But rice productivity is dependent on appropriate light intensity, among other factors. This review focuses on morphological, physiological and biochemical the effects of low light on rice yield - 250 - and quality. An attempt has been made to give the progress made in this important area of rice research along with future research directions that can be taken to improve rice grain yield and quality under low light stress.

^iia1 illus, 52 ref

022858   Donga S J;Chovatia P K;Verma H P;Rupareliya V V (Agronomy Dep, College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh-362 001, Email: dongasarika1805@gmail.com) : Effect of organic manures and bio fertilizers on growth, yield and economics of coriander. Ann agric Res 2017, 38(2), 226-9.

A field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2012-13 on medium black calcareous soil under South Saurastra Agro climatic Zone to study the effect of organic manures and bio fertilizers on growth and yield of coriander. Results revealed that application of recommended dose of fertilizer (20-10-0:N-P₂O₅-K₂O) being statistically at par with application of vermicompost @ 1.0 t ha^-1 and caster cake @ 0.5 t ha^-1, significantly increased the plant height (49.80 cm), dry weight (0.31 g plant^-1), no. of branches plant^-1 (6.67), plant spread (25 cm) seed yield (1430 kg ha^-1) and straw yield (1523 kg ha^-1). Inoculation with Azotobactor + PSB @ 10 ml kg^-1, gave significantly higher plant height (50.91), dry weight (0.29 g plant^-1), no. of branches plant^-1 (6.60), plant spread (23.21 cm) over no inoculation.

1 table, 5 ref

022857   Dobhal S;Thakur S (NO, Dr Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan-173 230, Email: snehadobhal001@gmail.com) : Characterization and identification of stem, branch, leaf and petiole morphology of Populus deltoides hybrids. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4B), 2051-8.

An attempt was made to characterize and compare the variations of stem, branch, leaf and petiole morphology of various Populus deltoides hybrids. The F₁ populations of the successful hybrids were raised in the nursery in uniform environment to study the extent and pattern of variation in growth and morphometric characters. To achieve these objectives, thirteen hybrids of P. deltoides were evaluated for different parameters. On the basis of various morphological characteristics the results reveal that each hybrid has a distinct pattern of features. Different colors of stem, leaf and petiole observed in these hybrids. Distinct nature of the stem, branch and leaf altitude were found. In this study, branch and leaf altitude were found. In this study, the morphological traits of stem, branch, leaf and petiole provided discriminatory grounds for separating various populations of P. deltoides hybrids. Studies of morphological characteristics indicate that different hybrids vary considerably with regard to shape, color and nature.

4 tables, 9 ref

022856   Dixena D;Patel D K (Rural Technology Dep, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, (A Central Univ), Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh) : Mass vegetative propagation of an aromatic medicinal plant Melissa officinalis Linn for ex-situ conservation in herbal garden. J med Pl Stud 2018, 6(1), 6-10.

Growth tendency of the plants are variable among the varied plant species in nature. The variation among the species is important segment for forming biological diversity in particular habitat. To maintain the diversity status plants are adopted for many ways to regenerate themselves as their parental ones. Such modes are referred as mode of multiplication and is classified in two major category as Seed/Sexual and vegetative/Asexual propagation. Many of the plants are efficiently producing seeds which further grow in coming favorable season At the same time it is also noticed that many plants are not capable to produce seeds and are potentially capable to propagate using their Vegetative plant parts. Current study is based on the study of vegetative propagation using stem cutting of the Melissa officinalis Linn in Herbal garden in GGV campus. The study followed by the stem cutting propagation in poly bags filled - 249 - with soil, sand and manure mixture. The experiment was properly monitored to fulfill the requirements of the developing plant part in each a poly bags separately. Changes were recorded following capturing of images in ten days interval.

5 illus, 29 ref

022855   Dhingani J C (College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agricultural Univ, keriya road, Amreli-365 601, Email: dhingani.jinesh@gmail.com) : Integrated management of root rot disease [Macrophomina phaseolina (Tass.) Goid] of chickpea through bioagents, oil cakes and chemicals under field conditions. Int J agric biol Res 2017, 33(2), 246-52.

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the important pulse crops of India. Occurrence of root rot disease has become a major constraint in recent years for successful and profitable cultivation of chickpea. The efficacy of various Bioagents viz Tricoderma viride and T. harzianum, Oil cakes viz. neem cake and castor cake, FYM and Carbendanzim through seed treatment and soil application were evaluated against Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) Goid causing root rot disease of Chickpea. Integrated management study of root rot disease of chickpea under field condition showed that soil application of T. harzianum @ 5 kg in 500 kg neem cake/ha in furrow 5 days prior to sowing resulted in higher seed germination (74.90%). In case of disease incidence and yield of crop, soil application of T. harzianum @ 5 kg in 500 kg FYM /ha in furrow 5 days prior to sowing has lowest disease incidence (11.81%) and gave highest yield(1533 kg/ha).

1 table, 7 ref

022854   Dhedhi K K;Dhobi C B;Chaudhari N N;Sorathiya J S;Khanpara M D (Pearl Millet Research Station, Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Jamnagar-361 006, Email: kkdhedhi@rediffmail.com) : Assessment of farmers saved groundnut seed quality of Devbhoomi Dwarka district of Gujarat, India. Agric Sci Dig 2017, 37(1), 16-21.

The study was aimed to determine the seed quality of groundnut used for sowing by farmers of Devbhoomi Dwarka district of Gujarat. Eighty two samples of farmers saved seeds of groundnut were collected from four villages of Jam Khambhalia, six villages of Kalyanpur, one village of Dwarka and three villages of Bhanvad talukas of Devbhoomi Dwarka. The study revealed that 96.34 per cent of seed samples conformed to the prescribed seed standards for germination, moisture content, physical purity, insect infestation; while, 76.83 per cent of seed samples recorded equal or higher than 70 per cent field emergence. The results suggest that the quality of groundnut seed used for sowing by farmers was satisfactory in Devbhoomi Dwarka of Gujarat. However, farmers need to be more educated about the importance and advantages of using good quality certified seeds and shall be trained for maintenance of seed quality by adopting pre and post harvest measures so as to harvest good yields of the desired varieties.

1 table, 12 ref

022853   Dhayal B L;Mehta B M (NO, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Vadodara, Gujarat, Email: dhayalextn@yahoo.co.in) : Knowledge and adoption level of animal scientific practices by milk producers in Chhotaudaipur district of Gujarat. Agric Update 2017, 12(1), 9-16.

Livestock are an integral part of agriculture in India and are likely to be the instruments of future growth and development of the agricultural sector. They generate employment, provide draught power, manure and earn foreign exchange through exports. Additionally, livestock make substantial contributions to environmental conservation and provide domestic fuel to save on the use of petro-products. Although the per capita consumption of foods of animal origin is low in India, demand has been rising due to the growing human population, sustained growth in per capita incomes and increasing urbanization. Dairying is an integral part of the Indian economy providing subsistence to small and marginal farmers and landless laborers. Most of the rural farmers, who keep dairy animals, do not follow modern dairy management practices. This study was conducted on knowledge and adoption level of improved animal husbandry practices. Result revealed that majority of dairy farmers (53.00 %) had medium knowledge level, whereas 22.00 per cent and 25.00 per cent dairy farmers were having low and high knowledge level about improved animal husbandry practices, respectively. Majority of the members (51 %) were found to be medium adopters, while 27 per cent members were low adopters and 22 per cent of the members were high adopters.

7 tables, 21 ref

022852   Dhanya M K;Anjumol K B;Murugan M;Deepthy K B (Cardamom Research Station, Pampadumpara, Kerala Agricultural University, Idukki-685 553, Email: dhanya_mk200@yahoo.co.in) : Compatibility of Trichoderma viridi and Psdudomonas fluorescens with plant protection chemicals and fertilizers in cardamom. J trop Agric 2016, 54(2), 129-35.

An in vitro experiment was conducted with the objective to find out the suitability of combination of plant protection chemicals (insecticides and fungicides) and fertilizers (urea, urea granules, single super phosphate, muriate of potash, diammonium phosphate, bone meal and micronutrient mixture) with antagonists like Trichoderma viride and Pseudomonas fluorescens used in the integrative cardamom - 247 - farming situation in Kerala. Thirty three chemicals were tested for their compatibility individually and in combinations. Trichoderma viridi showed good compatibility (100 percent) with insecticides (imidacloprid, spinosad, chlorantraniliprole, flubendiamide and acephate), fungicides (potassium phosphonate and fosetyl aluminium) and fertilizers (urea, urea granules, single super phosphate, muriate of potash and micronutrient mixture). Incompatibility of T. viride was observed with insecticides (quinalphos and Azadirachta indica + Pongamia pinnata oil mixture) and fungicides (carbendazim, hexaconazole, potassium phosphonate + hexaconazole mixture and captan + hexaconazole mixture). Hundred per cent compatibility was noticed for Pseudomonas fluorescens with insecticides (pongamia and neem oil mixture, acephate, quinalphos, chlorantraniliprole, dimethoate, imidacloprid and fluobendiamide), fungicides, (hexaconazole and potassium phosphonate + hexaconazole mixture) and fertilizers (SSP, MOP, urea, bone meal and urea granules) at the recommended concentration. Insecticides like chlorpyriphos, acetamiprid, carbosulfan, and fungicides such as fosetyl aluminium, copper hydroxide, COC, cymoxanil + mancozeb mixture as well as micronutrient mixture significantly inhibited the growth of P. fluorescens. For integrated pest management in small cardamom farming, these chemicals along with the respective antagonists are recommended so as to reduce the environmental risk due to toxic pesticides and increase the sustainability of cardamom farming.

5 illus, 24 ref

022851   Dehariya S K;Shukla A;Barde S K (Entomology Dep, JNKVV, College of Agriculture, Jabalpur-482 004, Email: sdehariya843@gmail.com) : Efficacy of botanical pesticides against shoot and fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis in brinjal. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(2), 721-5.

The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with 7 treatments and 4 replications, to evaluate the performance of some botanical products against the pest complex of brinjal.The treatments included Triazophos 40E.C. 0.04%,Neem oil 1 %,Achook 5 %,NSKE 5%, Karanj oil 1%,Eucalyptus oil 1% and an untreated control. Four spraying of each treatment were conducted starting 30 days after transplanting, at an interval of 15 days. Observation on shoot and fruit damage by Leucinodes orbonalis were recorded. The results revealed that Triazophos 40E.C. 0.04%,was significantely superior over all the botanical treatments shoot damage in different treatments & ranged between 3.9 to 10.1%.Highest healthy fruits yield (24.76q/ha) was recorded in the treatment of Triazophos 40E.C. 0.04% followed by the treatment of neem oil 1% (20.54 q/ha healthy fruits), and both the treatments were statistically at par Yields in remaining treatments were at par and ranged between 19.57 and 15.23 q/ha. Lowest yield (10.50 q/ha in healthy fruits) was registered in untreated control.Highest cost benefit ratio of 1:6. 31 was treatment of Triazophos 40 EC 0.04%. Application of neem oil 1% registered the cost benefit ratio of 1:1.79 and was found most economical.

3 tables, 27 ref

022850   Deepika S D;Hadimani H P;Gayakawad P S (Vegetable Science Dep, College of Horticulture, University of Hort. Sciences, Bagalkot-587 103, Email: deepikashahapur@gmail.com) : Effect of nitrogen and phosphorus levels on fruit yield and economics of okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench.]. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4B), 2208-11.

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of nitrogen and phosphorus levels on crop growth, fruit yield and production economics of okra cv Arka Anamika under field conditions during kharif season of 2013-14. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design. Treatments included were 4 levels of nitrogen viz., 75, 100, 125 and 150 kg N ha^-1 and 3 levels of phosphorus viz., 50, 75 and 100 kg P ha^-1. Among different treatment combinations, application of 125 kg N and 100 kg P ha^-1. Economic analysis indicated that application of NPK @ 125 : 100 : 62.5 kg ha^-1 found to be optimum dose and resulted in highest gross returns, net returns and benefit cost ratio (1 : 4.87) of okra.

4 tables, 7 ref

022849   Deepan A B;Tanuja N;Kavanashree K S; Ramanathan A (Plant Pathology Dep, Tamil Nadu Univ, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: bharanideepan10@gmail.com) : Screening and management of false smut disease in rice. Agric Rev 2017, 38(3), 238-42.

False smut of rice caused by Ustilaginoidea virens (Cooke), increasing concern in majority of rice growing areas around the world as epidemics have been reported lately. The fungus completely converts the grains into spore balls, unfit for consumption and seed production. With the increase in disease, yield loss and disease severity is accentuating. The QTLs responsible for the false smut resistance to be identified and consistent inheritability of these QTLs have to be evaluated using marker assisted selection. Due to heavy application of nitrogenous fertilizers the disease aggravates, proper management strategies needed to be framed to control the false smut disease. Progress in achieving the resistance varieties and management of false smut needs more emphasis. This review summarizes the present status in the screening of resistant varieties and management of false smut in - 246 - rice.

^iia54 ref

022848   Datta P;Das K (Fruits and Orchard Management Dep, Faculty of Horticulture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, P.O. Mohanpur-741 252, Email: pallab_bckv@rediffmail.com) : Yield and quality parameters of guava fruits grown in conventional and organic farming system. J Ecofriendly Agric 2018, 13(1), 13-14.

The yield and quality profile of organic and conventionaly grown guava fruits in new alluvial zones of West Bengal were compared. In total, 400 fruits (from both growing systems) were analyzed for a range of quality parameters. Data were evaluated by ANOVA and means were compared by using t-test. Compared with conventional system, organic fruits were rich in minerals like phosphorus, potassium, zinc, manganese and calcium. More fruit weight and yield were obtained in conventionally grown system, while quality parameter and shelf life were better in organically grown fruits. An important constituent i.e. vitamin C content of guava fruits was also higher (139.27 mg 100g^-1) in organically grown fruits as compared to conventional once. Hence, organic system can be recommended for quality produce of guava.

2 tables, 12 ref

022847   Datta P;Das K (Fruits and Orchard Management Dep, Faculty of Horticulture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, P.O. Mohanpur-741 252, Email: pallab_bckv@rediffmail.com) : Vitamin C content of guava from conventional versus organic farming system. J Ecofriendly Agric 2017, 12(2), 22-3.

The quality profile or organic and conventional guava grown in new alluvial zones of West Bengal were compared with emphasis on vitamin C content of fruit. In total 400 fruits (both growing system) were analyzed for a range of quality parameters. Data were analysed by ANOVA and means were compared by using t-test. Compared with conventional system, organic fruits were found rich in minerals like phosphorus, potassium, zinc, manganese and calcium. Maximum fruit weight (142.33 g) and yield (41.27 kg tree^-1) were obtained from conventional growing system, while quality parameter were higher in organically grown fruits. Vitamin C content of fruit was higher (139.27 mg 100 g^-1) in organic fruit as compared to conventional one. Finally, it is suggested that organic system can be recommended for the purpose of obtaining maximum vitamin C and other quality parameter.

2 illus, 12 ref

022846   Datta P;Das K (Fruits and Orchard Management Dep, Faculty of Horticulture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, P.O. Mohanpur, Nadia, W.B-741 252, Email: pallab_bckv@rediffmail.com) : Vitamin C content of guava in conventional versus organic farming system. J Ecofriendly Agric 2017, 12(1), 17-18.

Investigations on the quality profile of organic and conventional guava grown in new alluvial zones of West Bengal, with special emphasis on vitamin C content of the fruit, revealed that the guava fruits grown under conventional system was although had higher weight (142.33 g) and yielded maximum (41.27 kg tree^-1), the organically produced fruits showed higher vitamin C content (139.27 mg 100 g^-1) as compared to conventional one. Besides the organic fruits were found richer in minerals like phosphorus, potassium, zinc, manganese and calcium. Based on the findings, growing of guava under organic system was recommended.

2 tables, 12 ref

022845   Das S C S;Alam A;Jha D N;Kumari V;Srivastava K;Bhattacharjya B K (NO, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, 24-Pannalal Road, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh-211 002, Email: bkbhattacharjya@yahoo.com) : Raising of stocking materials in pen enclosure in a floodplain wetland of Uttar Pradesh. J Inld Fish Soc India 2017, 49(1), 15-21.

An experiment was conducted in Alwara taal of Uttar Pradesh, India to rear Indian major carp fry in pen enclosure during 2014-15 for production of stocking materials. A rectangular off-shore all-net pen covering 0.125 ha area was installed in the wetland using HDPE screens (5 mm mesh size), nylon webbing (5 mm mesh size), foot rope (3 mm diameter) bamboo poles and twines. The pen was stocked with advance fry of Catla catla, Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala @ 20 nos. m^-2 in the ratio of 2:1:1 The stocked fishes were fed with supplementary feed @ 2-5% of their body weight giving overall FCR value of 1.11. Catla, rohu and mrigal fry grew from 6.85 g ±0.48,3.77 g ± 0.31 and 5.03 g ± 0.26 to 123.10 g± 5.53, 85.4 g± 4.91 and 72.3 g±2.42 in 110 days culture period. The specific growth rate and survivality (%) of reared fishes were: 2.62 and 61.2% for catla, 2.84 and 66.3% for rohu whereas these were 2.42 and 68.2% for mrigal. Mean values of important water quality variables like transparency (35 cm), pH (7.5), total alkalinity (212 mg 1^-1), total hardness (178 mg I^-1), dissolved oxygen (6.3 mg I^-1), phosphate-P (0.072 mg I^-1) and nitrate-N (0.09 mg I^-1) indicated that the wetland was suitable for pen aquaculture. Benefit-cost ratio and return on investment were 1.53 and 0.53 indicating that pen aquaculture was economically viable for rearing of carp advance fry to fingerling stage in floodplain wetlands of Uttar Pradesh.

1 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

022844   Das G;Saha A (Cooch Behar Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar-736 165, Email: ganesh.ext@gmail.com) : Dooars areas in West Bengal: a potential area for farm or rural tourism in India. J Ecofriendly Agric 2017, 12(2), 94-5.

Rural or farm tourism is now a novel attraction for the metro city people in India as well as the foreigners. Rural tourism will emerge as an important instrument for sustainable human development including poverty alleviation, employment generation, environmental regeneration and development. The study was conducted at Dooars area of Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and - 244 - Coochbehr District of West Bengal, India. The study was conducted during June, 2015 to November, 2015. The respondents were selected from rural people and form the tourists. The sample size were 200 in case of selection rural people and 50 in case of selected tourists. The objective of the study was to identify the threat and opportunity of the Dooars area for making farm tourism place. Descriptive research design was followed to obtain pertinent and precise information. It was found from the study that the Dooars area of West Bengal has a good potential to become an established rural tourism spot.

14 ref

022843   Das A (NO, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam-793 103, Email: anup_icar@yahoo.com) : Roof water harvesting in hills - innovations for farm diversification and livelihood improvement. Curr Sci 2017, 113(2), 292-8.

The north eastern region (NER) of India receives bountiful rains (<62>2000 mm) annually. However, there is extreme water scarcity during post- and premonsoon season (November-March). In such a situation, roof water harvesting (RWH) holds promise for multiple livelihood opportunities. RWH unit with polyfilm lined water collection tank of 37 m 3 storage capacity (i.e. 5.5 x 4.5 x 1.5 m³) was demonstrated at 11 farmers fields mostly on hill tops in the Ri-Bhoi district (Meghalaya). The average demonstration area was 500 m² /farmer in the vicinity of homesteads (kitchen gardens). Volume of water harvested in a collection tank was about 53 m³ including about 16 m³ harvested during dry season due to seasonal replenishment. The cost of water harvesting was estimated at about Rs 144 and Rs 119/m³ considering lifespan of five and ten years respectively. Farmers used harvested water for diversified activities such as raising crops [maize, broccoli, French bean, laipatta (Brassica juncea), tomato, etc.] and livestock (pig or poultry) in addition to domestic use. The farmers without RWH could use land only during rainy season for crop cultivation. On an average, the net income from each RWH based model (500 m² demonstration area) was Rs 14,910 for crop + piggery and Rs 11,410 for crop + poultry farming which was 261 and 176% higher, respectively than the normal farmers' practice. Similarly, employment and water use efficiency enhanced by 221 and 586%; and 168 and 218% under crop + piggery and crop + poultry based farming respectively.

5 illus, 4 tables, 11 ref

022842   Choudhri H P S;Singh G P;Singh R;Kushwaha P; Ranjan A K;Mithlesh Kumar;Abhineet;Krishna Kumar (Agricultural Economics Dep, Agronomy & Plant Pathology N. D. U. A. & T., Kumarganj Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Constraints analysis of maize cultivation in Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh. Pharma Innovation 2018, 7(2), 30-1.

Study was conducted in Tejwapur block of Bahraich district of U. P. A sample of 100 respondents were choosen through purposive cum proportionate random sampling and were categorise as marginal, small and medium size group of farms. technical, managerial and financial problem were noticed as major constraints.

1 table, 9 ref

022841   Choudhary D;Patel H R;Yadav S B;Anil Kumar; Pandey V (Agricultural Meteorology Dep, Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand-388 110, Email: diveshchoudhary@gmail.com) : Simulation of seasonal variations in maize productivity using infocrop-maize model against climate change scenario in middle Gujarat region. Ann Agri Bio Res 2017, 22(2), 204-8.

The effort was made to study the comparison of baseline (1960-90) and projected period (A, scenario) maize productivity of cv. GM-3 and GS-2 during kharif and rabi seasons in Dahod district of middle Gujarat. The seasonal variation was used as adaptation tool to regulate the maize productivity considering hypothetical set of data using InfoCrop-maize model against the impact of climate change. The irrespective of the dates of sowing as far as grain yield was concerned cvs. GM 3 and GS 2 were found better for kharif and rabi seasons, respectively. The rabi cultivation of maize was found more remunerative as compared to kharif cultivation of maize. Above the threshold level of CO, concentration had negative response by both - 243 - the cultivars. Among the weather parameters, rainfall directly controlled the early-kharif sown grain yield, therefore, late sowing was not recommended for better yield. Climate change was projected to reduce kharif maize yield, however, projected increase in rainfall may be beneficial during rabi season in middle Gujarat region.

3 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

022840   Chittapur B M;Doddabasawa;Umesh M R (NO, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur-584 104, Email: basavarajc7@gmail.com) : On-farm crop diversity for sustainability and resilience in farming. Agric Rev 2017, 38(3), 191-200.

Modern intensive monocropping system is becoming unproductive, pest ridden, loss incurring, and resource depleting and hence turning out to be untenable. Lack of discrimination in input use by farm managers and overall poor management are accelerating degradation and desertification processes, and loss of biodiversity particularly add in endangered regions. While, properly designed diverse and strategically located tree/seasonal crop based land use systems can contribute to ecologic services by mitigation land degradation, climate change and desertification, while conserving natural resources and biodiversity. Besides providing, diverse goods and services, on-farm diversity can be considered as an adoptive strategy in areas climatically and biologically vulnerable. Being a potential C sink, tree based land use systems can also mitigate negative impacts of CO₂ emission. As green belt/bank these have an important role in maintaining air, water and soil quality in mining and industrial areas. The so-called cellulosic feedstocks can be grown on marginal land, enhance soil fertility by promoting the growth of various soil organisms, and provide a climate- friendly source of energy. There are plenty of underexploited but potential plant species which can find niche in the existing agroecosystems with substantial addition to total production while contributing sufficiently to ecological services. These needs to be identified and useful models are developed for specific situations.

^iia2 tables, 78 ref

022839   Chhetri A;Thakur N;Pant S C;Chandra Shekhar; Pandey P K (College of Horticulture, VCSG Uttarakhand University of Horticulture and Forestry, Bharsar-246-123, Email: chhetriash@gmail.com) : Assessment of genetic diversity in strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) grown under Grahwal Himalayas. Crop Res 2017, 52(1-3), 49-54.

A field trial was conducted at the farm of Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture, VCSG Uttarakhand University of Horticulture and Forestry, Bharsar, Pauri Garhwal during the year 2013-14. Experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. The experiment was conducted to find out the genotypes to be used as parents for mapping populations as well as in hybrid breeding programmes. Both cluster and principal component analysis showed an - 242 - adequate grouping of genotypes according to phenotypical data. Principal component analysis revealed that the first five principal components were accounted for 82.31% of the total variation. Cluster analysis using Ward method classified the 19 genotypes into five clusters. The most important traits for strawberry genotypes grouping were fruit traits and plant architecture, which should be taken into account in the further strawberry genetic resource characterization and analysis of breeding material. The present study showed that strawberry genotypes possessed high level of genetic variation that was useful for breeding.

5 tables, 19 ref

022838   Chhavi;Srivastava A;Sharma P K (Entomology Dep, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural Univ, Palampur-176 062, Email: chhavi.reflection@gmail.com) : Assessment of yield losses of rice caused by paddy leaf folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis Guenee. Agric Sci Dig 2017, 37(1), 72-4.

Six genotypes viz., Palam Basmati-1, Palam Red Rice, HPR 1068, Arize 6129, HPR 2143 and Kasturi Basmati were evaluated to assess the crop/ yield losses by paddy leaf folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis at CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvidyalaya, Rice and Wheat Research Centre, Malan, during Kharif 2012. The leaf infestation (47.1%) at maturity stage was significantly lower in HPR 2143 as compared to other varieties. However, Kasturi Basmati was having significantly higher leaf infestation (77.2%) as compared to Arize 6129 (59.2%), HPR 1068 (57.7%), Palam Red Rice (57.0%) and HPR 2143 (47.1%) and was found at par with Palam Basmati-1 (73.3%).Yield data revealed that the grain yield was higher in protected plots as compared to unprotected plots irrespective of the varieties. The highest grain yield was recorded in protected plots of Arize 6129 (76.45 q/ha) followed by Kasturi Basmati (59.07 q/ha), HPR 1068 (57.15 q/ha), Palam Basmati-1 (56.52 q/ha), HPR 2143 (52.84 q/ha) and Palam Red Rice (46.22 q/ha). The grain yield varied from 35.26 to 53.40 q/ha in the unprotected plots. Assessment of yield losses revealed that the maximum per cent avoidable losses was found in Kasturi Basmati (37.9%) and least in HPR 2143 (11.9%).

2 tables, 5 ref

022837   Chenchaiah K C (NO, CTRI Research Station, Kandukur-523 101, Email: kcchenchaiah@yahoo.co.in) : Control of spodoptera litura (F.) by botanicals in FCV tobacco. J Ecofriendly Agric 2018, 13(1), 75-9.

Acetone extracts of 34 plant species were evaluated for control of Spodoptera litura (F.), in FCV tobacco in Andhra Pradesh under laboratory and field conditions. The crude plant extracts of Leucas aspera and Terminalia arjun killed 95 per cent of third instar larvae of S. litura @ 10 μ larvae^-1 dose after 72 hr of the treatment. Field evaluation of crude extracts of L. aspera, T. arjun, and Tagitus erecta var. african was carried out at five concentrations. The treatment, crude leaf extract of L. aspera (10% spray) was at par with Chlorpyriphos spray (0.05%) in controlling the larval damage to plants. It can find a place in IPM priogramme of S. litura and further purification/refinement of plant extract (L aspera)/mixing of crude extracts of two or three plant species are required for promoting its use in large scale field trials.

3 tables, 12 ref

022836   Chavda N K;Patel R A;Patel P;Hirpara B V (Agronomy Dep, B.A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand-388 110, Email: nileshkchavda21@gmail.com) : Effect of nitrogen, phosphorus and sulphur on growth and yield of cress (Lepidium sativum L.). Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(2), 527-9.

An experiment was conducted during rabiseason of the year 2014-15 at Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Research Centre, AnandAgricultural University, Anand (Gujarat) to study the effect of nitrogen, phosphorus and sulphur on cress (LepidiumSativum L.). Nitrogen significantly increase seed yields up to the level of 100 kg N/ha. Similarly, application of 80 kg P2O5/ha and 20 kg S/ha significantly improved growth and yield attributes and seed and stover yields. Interaction effect of N and S significantly increased number of siliquae/plant and seed yield.

3 tables, 8 ref

022835   Chaurasiya K K;Maratha P;Badodiya S K (NO, Career Point Univ, Kota, Rajasthan, Email: prashantmaratha@gmail.com) : Factors affecting entrepreneurial behaviour of dairy farmers. Agric Update 2017, 12(1), 23-30.

Entrepreneurial behaviour of a farmer is influenced by several factors. This study was conducted in Gwalior district of Madhya Pradesh. A list of farmers who were practicing dairy and possessing minimum 5 dairy animals was prepared and 200 dairy farmers were selected by random sampling method. The majority 65.5 per cent respondents had medium level of entrepreneurial behaviour about dairy management practices. The entrepreneurial behaviour of respondents was found to have positive and significant relation with the factors i.e. education, dairy experience, land holding, livestock possession, occupation, annual income, material possession, extension contact, economic motivation, market orientation, scientific orientation, attitude of dairy farmers towards dairy farming and knowledge of improved dairy management practices. The co-efficient of determination (R2) was 0.977 which indicates that 97.00 per cent variation in the entrepreneurial behaviour by all the variables together. The major constraints expressed by dairy farmers were lack of veterinary facilities in the village (68.75%). The majority 67.50 per cent respondents said storing milk in summer season was very difficult and high cost of cross breed cow/buffalo was reported by 60.00 per cent respondents.

6 tables, 6 ref

022834   Chaurasia S K;Singh S P;Naithani S (Cellulose and Paper Div, Forest Research Institute, P.O. New Forest, Dehradun, Uttarakhand-248 006, Email: shaardesh@hotmail.com) : Fiber characteristics of Melocanna baccifera (Roxb.) Kurz for the suitability of pulp and paper production. Indian J For 2016, 39(1), 27-30.

Fiber dimensions of Melocanna baccifera was examined to assess their suitability for pulp and paper production. Fifty mature culms of M. baccifera were obtained from Forest of Silchar, Cachar District of Assam, India. Samples taken from the top, middle and basal portions were thoroughly mixed and used in the study.

1 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

022833   Chaudhari P N (NO, M/s Pralshar Bioproducts Pvt. Ltd., Kakoda, Curchorem-403 706, Email: pnchaudhari17@gmail.com) : Role of microbial bio-products in sustainable agriculture. Int J Innovative Hort 2017, 6(1), 25-47.

This article describes the exploitation of microbial bioproducts in the agriculture field. As global warming lead to degradation natural resources and moreover, to facilitate the feed of growing population, some improvised technologies are to be adopted to enhance productivity in a sustainable manner through careful selection of microbes and their successful utilization in solving major agricultural and environmental issues. This review encompasses the research efforts aimed at improving a sustainable and healthy agricultural production through the appropriate management of biotechnology, natural sources and soil microorganisms. The review represents the significance of microbial bioproducts for improving soil fertility, crop yield and quality crop nutrition. Microbial bioproducts derived from various naturally-occurring microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi, protect crops from pests and diseases and enhance plant productivity and fertility. They enable farmers to increase yield and productivity in a sustainable way and are expected to play a significant role in agriculture. Consequently, the role of microbial bioproducts is directly proportional to the potential role of microorganisms which plays vital activity in bioproducts efficiently used as biopesticides, biostimulants and biofertilizers for sustainable agriculture. The present review highlights microbial bioproducts mediated crops functional traits such as plant growth and - 240 - productivity, nutrient profile, plant defence and protection. This review also focuses on the studies on the effect of some efficient microbial bioproducts on major crops in the fields providing reliable reasons for their necessity, specificity and use for sustainable agriculture.

^iia2 illus, 2 tables, 227 ref

022832   Chakraborty S;Gupta A;Saha A;Dhakre D S (Agricultural Extension Dep, PSB, Visva-Bharati Univ, Sriniketan, Bolpur, West Bengal) : Sociological status of paddy growers farmers in Bankura district of West Bengal. Pharma Innovation 2018, 7(1), 5-9.

The study was conducted in Bankura district of West Bengal data were collected from 120 paddy growers farmers using structured interview schedule. 40 paddy growers farmers were chosen from each selected villages thus constituting a sample size of 120 by simple random method. The majority of the respondents (65.83%) belonged to the middle age group (between 39 to 59 years) with the majority of General caste (89.17%) of the selected paddy growers farmer most of selected farmers (70.83%) were having secondary level of education. The majority of the respondents were having (51.67%) medium size of family (5-9) members & majority of the respondents (45%) are having only other type of primary occupation. Majority of the respondents (66.27%) were having 22 to 50 years experience in paddy farming. Social participation majority of the respondents (95.84 %) belongs to medium participation group with (76.67%) of the selected farmers were had Medium farm (8 to 20 acre), & higher % of the respondents (69.17%) were having their income in the medium range between Rs. (36705 to 74555) & 65% of the respondents belonged to low annual yield category that is below 4 Qu. The majority of the respondents (91.67%) had hired tractor & 98.84% had been hiring harvester as farm machineries. Almost all of the respondents 99.17% had an access to market and also majority of the respondents that is 77.17% had an access to credit.

10 illus, 11 tables, 8 ref

022831   Buldak L R;Kaushik M K;Sumeriya H K;Kumawat P (Agronomy Dep, Maharana Pratap Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Udaipur-313 001, Email: mkk101061@yahoo.com) : Interaction effect of seed rates and genotypes on growth, yield and nutrient uptake by sorghum. Ann Agri Bio Res 2017, 22(2), 180-4.

A field experiment was conducted at Udaipur during kharif seasons of 2012 and 2013 to study the effect of seed rates on growth, yield and nutrient uptake by sorghum genotypes. Results revealed that genotype CSV 23 along with 10.00 kg seed/ha recorded maximum plant height at harvest, dry matter accumulation at 25, 50, 75 DAS and at harvest over rest of the genotypes tested. CSH 16 at 10.00 kg seed/ha recorded significantly maximum grain weight/panicle, test weight, seed yield and NPK uptake by seed, whereas genotype CSV 23 at 12.50 kg seed/ha recorded maximum stover yield, biological yield and NPK - 239 - uptake by stover as well as total by the crop.

1 table, 7 ref

022830   Brhane D;Girmay M;Debru H;Hayelom M;Tekie M H M;Sharma V K;Naqvi S D Y (Plant Protection Dep, Hamelmalo Agricultural College, Hamelmalo, Keren, Africa, Email: syeddanishnaqvi84@gmail.com) : Survey on insect-pests of guava and management practices around hamelmalo sub-zoba. J Ecofriendly Agric 2018, 13(1), 69-71.

Guava (Psidium guajava) is ever green fruit, belongs to Myrtacae family. It grows in tropical and sub-tropical area of the world and it is important source of vitamin C. The survey was conducted to identify the insect pest of guava in four villages of sub-zoba Hamelmalo viz. Fredarb, Genfelom, Wazntet, and Hamelmalo. The main objective of the study was to identify the major insect-pests of guava. The surveys were carried out by providing questioner to the farmers and observations on fruits. Guava fruit fly (Bactrocera sp.) is found to be the major insect-pest. Fruit fly infestation was observed in 89 per cent number of trees. Out of the four villages, the infestation of fruit fly was highest in Hamelmalo and Wazntet (94%) and the lowest was in Fredard (78%). Estimation of the fruit dropping due to fruit fly was made and it was found that average fruit dropping in different villages by fruit fly was maximum in Wazntet 100 per cent during summer and 22 per cent during winter season. Minimum average fruit dropping during summer season was 85 per cent in Genfelom and during winter season it was 14 per cent in Fredard.

2 illus, 4 tables, 7 ref

022829   Brar T S;Sharma S (Entomology Dep, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: smritisharma80@pau.edu) : Influence of temperature and carbon dioxide levels on growth and development of Spodoptera litura Fabricius on cauliflower. J Agrometeorol 2017, , 306-11.

The studies on influence of temperature and carbon dioxide on growth and development of Spodoptera litura on cauliflower were conducted with six different temperature and carbon dioxide regimes viz. 25:11°C and 25:14°C, 400, 450 ppm carbon dioxide concentrations. Observations on different biological indices were recorded to estimate the influence of elevated temperature and carbon dioxide on growth and development of S. litura. The study revealed temperature and carbon dioxide had significant effect on developmental indices of S. litura. It was observed that incubation period, larval duration, pupal duration, male adult longevity, female adult longevity decreased from 4.5, 23.4, 9.3, 6.8, 7.5, respectively at 25:11°C to 3.9, 21.2, 8.7, 6.5, 7.4 days respectively, at 25:14°C. Whereas fecundity of S litura increased from 363.6 to 420.9 with increase in temperature and carbon dioxide indicating reduced generation time which could lead to more number of generations per year.

2 tables, 16 ref

022828   Borang S;Hazarika B N;Singh V;Singh S R;Singh S;Wangchu L (College of Horticulture & Forestry, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat-791 102, Email: siyangborang@gmail.com) : Forced flowering of pineapple (Ananas comosus cv. Kew) in response to cold stress, ethephon, calcium carbide and activated charcoal. Crop Res 2017, 52(1-3), 34-6.

The experimental on forced flowering of pineapple (Ananas comosus cv. Kew) in response to cold stress, ethephon, calcium carbide and activated charcoal was carried out at Fruit Research Farm, Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture & Forestry, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh in the year 2013-14. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized block design with eight treatments and three replications. The treatments were : T₁-Control, T₂-Iced cold water, T₃-NAA @0.002%, T₄-1% CaC₂, T₅-1%CaC₂+0.5% Activated charcoal, T₆-0.025% Ethephon+0.04%CaC₂+2% urea, T₇-0.24% Ethephon+2% urea and T₈-4% CaC₂. Here, T₇ (0.24% ethephon+2% urea) showed highest flowering percentage of 93.66 followed by T₆ (0.025% Ethephon+0.04% calcium carbide+2% urea) 91.33. Treatment T₁ (Control) lowest flowering percentage of 24.66.

1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

022827   Boori P K;Shivran A C;Meena S;Giana G K (NO, SKN College of Agriculture (SKN Agriculture Univ), Jobner-303 329, Email: acs_shivran@rediffmail.com) : Growth and productivity of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) as influenced by intercropping with fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.). Agric Sci Dig 2017, 37(1), 32-6.

The study was carried out during rabi 2013-2014 in 3 times replicated RBD with three intercropping systems (sole fennel, fennel + fenugreek in 1:1 and 1:2 row ratios) and four sulphur levels (0, 20, 40 and 60 kg S/ha). The results revealed that fennel in 1:2 row ratio recorded significantly higher dry matter and yield attributes of fennel as compared to 1:1 row ratio and sole fennel. Intercropping of fennel in 1:2 row ratio significantly reduced seed (10.42 q/ha), straw and biological yields of fennel over 1:1 ratio and sole fennel. The fennel in 1:1 row ratio could not bring significant variation in growth and yield of fennel as compared to sole fennel. However, when system productivity was compared, intercropping in 1:1 row ratio registered significantly highest net monetary returns (Rs 126471/ha) and land equivalent ratio (1.45) in comparison to intercropping in 1:2 ratio and sole fennel. The sulphur at 40 kg/ha significantly increased growth and yield attributes, seed (15.60 q/ha), straw and biological yields and net returns (Rs 100612/ha) of fennel. Application of 40 kg S/ha in fennel intercropping system was found suitable considering input economy as it recorded 42.07 and 13.37% higher seed yield and 60.71 and 17.40% higher net monetary returns over control and application of 20 kg S/ha, respectively.

2 tables, 21 ref

022826   Bohra B;Mathur K;Trivedi P C;Vyas B N (Research Centre, Godrej Agrovet Limited, Pirojshanagar, Eastern Express Highway, Vikhroli (East), Mumbai-400 079) : Eco-friendly management of root rot of guar caused by Fusarium solani and Rhizoctonia solani. J Ecofriendly Agric 2018, 13(1), 85-90.

Local isolates of 18 fungal and 19 bacterial biocontrol agents and five neem based formulations were evaluated at first in vitro, and then in green house to find the most effective ones for suppression guar root rot complex caused by Fusarium solani and Rhizoctonia solani. Maximum inhibition of F. solani and complete inhibition of R. solani was recorded in T. viride (S) and T. harzianum Gnl. The 17 Bacillus subtilis isolates and two Streptomyces isolates were highly effective against F. solani and R. solani in dual culture studies. Kernel extract and oil based neem formulations (0.2%) caused maximum growth inhibition of both F. solani and R. solani. Among the fungicides, Carbendazim, Mancozeb and Captan were effective. The biocontrol agents, neem formulations and fungicides found promising in vitro were then evaluated as seed treatments in greenhouse experiment. The highest seed germination and dry biomass and lowest disease incidence was recorded in T. harzianum Gnl followed by B. subtilis isolate Ch-Kp-b-1. Among the neem based formulations tested, neem oil as seed treatment + soil drench resulted in good seed germination, reduced disease incidence and higher dry biomass. Among the fungicides Captan was found most effective in suppressing root rot of guar followed by carbendazim. The BCAs could establish and multiply well in the guar rhizosphere and significantly lowered the density of the both pathogens. The population density of F. solani and R. solani was lowest in T. - 237 - harzianum Gnland B. subtilis isolate Ch-Kp-b-1.

6 tables, 14 ref

022825   Biswas P K;Das R;Sangtam S (NO, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Mokokchung, Nagaland, Email: drpijushpckvk@gmail.com) : Production constraints of maize cultivation under Mokokchung district of Nagaland. Agric Update 2017, 12(1), 172-4.

The present study was conducted in Mokokchung district of Nagaland. Purposively eight villages were selected from four selected rural development (RD) blocks. From those eight villages 200 respondents were selected randomly. The study reveals that the major constrains of high quality protein maize production was noted in non-availability of quality seed by 89.50 per cent of the respondents which comes under infrastructural constraint.

1 table, 5 ref

022824   Biswajit P;Sritama K;Anindya S;Moushree S; Sabyasachi K (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Institute of Agricultural Science, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019, Email: geneticsbisu@gmail.com) : Breeding for submergence tolerance in rice (Oryza sativa L.) and its management for flash flood in rainfed low land area. Agric Rev 2017, 38(3), 167-79.

For rainfed low land paddy ecosystems which is supposed to withstand the sudden rise of water level for short period of time i.e. up to two weeks has been considered as the submergence tolerant. Proper screening and evaluation method are very important for cost effective and economic breeding procedures that will benefits the farmers. The agro morphological characters which are responsible for - 236 - submergence tolerance; character association and path coefficient analysis will be very much useful to select them for further assessment. Hybrid rice will be another approach which could mitigate the flash flood constraints. Proper understanding of anatomical characters such as aerenchyma formation and changes of diameter of aerenchyma of root, shoot and leaf will be very much important for submergence tolerance if it is linked with genetic factors. Biochemical manipulation of different plant hormone such as gibberellic acid, abscisic acid and ethylene; enzyme like alcohol dehydrogenase synthesis; chlorophyll content and non structural carbohydrate content of shoot has significant role for enhancement of survival during underwater growth. Plant extracts or herbal crude product in the form of dry and wet treatments along with proper growth nutrients will be a holistic approach for sustainable and integrated agriculture and will be a tool for crop improvement in future breeding programme for submergence tolerance in rice.

^iia146 ref

022823   Bishnoi D;Bhatia J;Punia D;Suman (Agricultural Economics Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: drjitenderkumarbhatia@gmail.com) : Constraints perceived by the farm women in vegetable cultivation. Ann Agri Bio Res 2017, 22(1), 84-7.

Majority of the respondents perceived constraints severely, but not very severely in vegetable cultivation i. e. capital problems and extensive work load with dual responsibilities/burden of domestic work (87.50% each), social restrictions for attending kisan mela/training/camp/exhibition, etc. or cultural & social barriers (86.25%), disease attack (83.75%), costly fertilizers and insects attack (85% each), costly pesticides and high cost of seeds (81.25% each), poor economic conditions (72.50%), fast technological advancement regarding machinery/seed/fertilizer/pesticide, etc. (66.25%), uncertain market situations (62.50%), adulterated pesticides and credit availability (60% each) and market problems (58.75%).

1 table, 7 ref

022822   Birendra Kumar;Prasad S;Rakesh Kumar (Crop Research Div, ICAR, RC for Eastern Region Patna, Bihar-800 014, Email: rakeshbhu08@gmail.com) : Efficacy of herbicide in weed management practices to maximize the productivity and profitability of transplanted rice. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4B), 2143-7.

Field experiments was conducted during the kharif season of 2011 and 2012 to evaluate the efficiency of different herbicides and herbicide mixtures to manage the weed in rice. Results revealed that different weed management practices had a positive influence on growth, yield and economics of the rice. Emergence of broad leaf weeds was noticed earlier than sedges and grasses. The lowest total weed density (4.74 m^-2), dry matter production (1.54 g m^-2) and the highest weed control efficiency (93.3%) irrespective of weed species was recorded under two hand weeding followed by application of butachlor @ 1.5 kg a.i./ha as pre-em fb ethoxysulfuron @ 1.5 g a.i./ha as POE (5.69 m^-2), (1.80 g m^-2), (87.8%), bispyribac 12.5 g a.i./ha + azimsulfuron 12.5 g a.i./ha POE (5.79 m²), (1.80 g m²), (92.9%) and - 235 - butachlor @ 1.5 kg a.i./ha as pre-em fb azimsulfuron @25.0 g a.i./ha POE (5.19 m²) (1.59 g m²), (92.2%) at all the stage of crop growth (5.19 m²) (1.59 g m²), (92.2%) at all the stages of crop growth. Among the herbicides, butachlor @ 1.5 kg a.i./ha as pre-em fb ethoxysulfuron @ 15 g a.i./ha as POE and bispyribac 12.5 g a.i./ha + azimulfuron 12.5 g a.i./ha POE recorded the highest values yield attributes i.e. tillers / m² (no.), panicles (no.), grains panicle^-1 (no.), 1000-grain weight. The effect of different weed management practices on grain yield of rice was found to be significant and the maximum mean grain yield of (5.91 t/ha) was recorded from the plots where two hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAT was performed and was statistically at par with the mean grain yield obtained under different weed management practices i.e. butachlor @ 1.5 kg a.i./ha as pre-em fb azimsulfuron @ 25.0 g a.i./ha POE (5.51 t/ha), bispyribac 12.5 g a.i./ha + azimsulfuron (12.5 g a.i./ha POE (5.56 t/ha), butachlor @ 1.5 kg a.i./ha as pre-em fb ethoxysulfuron @ 1.5 g a.i./ha as POE (5.65 t/ha) and the grain yield obtained these were significantly superior to the grain yield obtained under rest of the weed management practices. The highest net return Rs 43083 / ha was noted in treatment butachlor @ 1.5 kg a.i./ha as pre-em fb ethoxysulfuron @ g a.i./ha as POE and the maximum benefit: cost ratio of 1.92 was obtained in treatment bispyribac 12.5 g a.i./ha + azimsulfuron 12.5 g a.i./ha POE and lower value of net return RS 28488/ha and benefit: cost ratio of (1.29) were recorded under treatment weedy check.

2 tables, 9 ref

022821   Bhuva H M;Kumawat P D;Mehta A C;Khanpara M D (Pearl Millet Research Station, JAU, Jamnagar, Gujarat-361 006, Email: hasmukhbhuva@gmail.com) : Enhancing productivity of summer gum guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) through irrigation and fertilization of sandy loam soils of Gujarat. Int J Innovative Hort 2017, 6(1), 62-8.

A field experiment was conducted during the summer seasons of 2013 and 2014 on sandy loam soils to evaluate levels of irrigation and fertilization in gum guar [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.] at Junagadh Agricultural University, Nana-Kandhasar, Surendranagar, Gujarat: The treatments comprising of four levels each of irrigation (0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0 IW: CPE ratios) and fertilization (00-00.10-20, 20-40 and 30-60 kg N-P₂O₅ ha^-1) were tested using split plot design with three replications. The pooled results indicated that irrigation at 0.8 IW:CPE enhanced the growth parameters viz., plant height, number of branches, number and dry weight of root nodules, dry matter plant^-1 and leaf area index, yield attributes viz., number of pods plant^-1, number of seeds pod^-1, pod length, 1000-seed weight and shelling per cent along with seed yield, stover yield and harvest index with higher net returns of Rs. 53895 ha^-1 and B:C ratio of 2.29 over 0.4 IW:CPE ratio. The maximum consumptive use of water was noticed under 1.0 IW: CPE ratio, while the maximum water use efficiency and water expense efficiency were persisted under 0.4 IW: CPE. Application of 20-40 kg N-P₂O₅ ha^-1 promoted growth parameters viz., plant height, number of branches, number and dry weight of root nodules, dry matter plant^-1, leaf area index, yield attributes viz., number of pods plant^-1, number of seeds pod^-1, pod length, 1000-seed weight and shelling per cent along with seed yield, stover yield and harvest index with higher net returns of Rs. 52967 ha^-1 and B:C ratio of 2.24 than control. The maximum consumptive use of water, water use efficiency and water expense efficiency were noticed under 30-60 kg N-P₂O₅ ha^-1.

4 tables, 20 ref

022820   Bhongale R;Hardikar D P;Waghmode Y J (Extension Education Dep, College of Agriculture, Dr. B.S. Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, Email: radhikabhongale@gmail.com) : Extent of production and marketing of the produce and reasons for success or failure of the SHGs. Agric Update 2017, 12(1), 155-60.

The study was conducted in Dapoli and Guhagar tahsils of Ratnagiri district (Konkan region) and Baramati and Indapur tahsils of Pune district (Western region) of Maharashtra. The sample constituted of 120 SHGs heads from 12 villages. With regards to the average capital investment made under different activities, 'dairy' stood first with the investment of Rs. 2.15 lakh. This was followed by 'mess' (Rs. 1.81 lakh), 'goat rearing' (Rs. 1.57 lakh), 'others' (Rs. 1.39 lakh), 'retail shops' (Rs. 1.36 lakh), 'snacks centre' (Rs. 1.33 lakh), 'tailoring' (Rs. 1.13 lakh), 'Masala making' (Rs. 1.09 lakh), 'syrup making' (Rs. 0.97 lakh), 'preparation of diwali stuffs' (Rs. 0.91 lakh), 'Shevai making' (Rs. 0.77 lakh). The capital investment with respect to the trades namely, 'fish selling', 'vegetable cultivation' and 'Papad making' was comparatively low, that is, Rs. 0.41 lakh, Rs. 0.56 lakh, Rs. 0.62 lakh, respectively. Four-fifth (80.83 %) of the respondents experienced, 'low participation of members in the group' as constraint. Followed by 'members are irregular in attending the meetings' (53.53 %) and 'lack of organization of training programme' (47.50 %). The other constraints faced by the - 234 - respondents were, 'lack of encouragement from society members for taking up group activity' (40.83 %) followed by 'the schemes for welfare of woman folk are not executed properly' (34.16 %) and 'lack of proper guidance by implementing agencies' (13.33 %).

5 tables, 10 ref

022819   Bhongale R;Hardikar D P;Waghmode Y J (Extension Education Dep, College of Agriculture, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, Email: radhika5101990@gmail.com) : Study of self-help groups in konkan and western Maharashtra. Agric Update 2017, 12(1), 113-18.

The present study was conducted in Dapoli and Guhagar tahsils of Ratnagiri district (Konkan region) and Baramati and Indapur tahsils of Pune district (Western region) of Maharashtra. The sample constituted of 120 SHGs heads from 12 villages. The respondents were interviewed with the help of specially designed schedule. Maximum number of the respondents belonged to the 'middle' age group, had education 'upto primary' level, pre-scheme annual income of 'Rs. 7,701 to 19,300/-', had '12' knowledge score, 'favourable' attitude towards SHG scheme, 'medium' social participation, 'medium' extension contact, 'medium' information seeking behaviour, received 'no institutional training' after participating in the SHGs and 'medium' market orientation. Activities undertaken by SHGs were vegetable cultivation (15.84 %), retail shops (8.34 %), dairy (7.50 %), fish selling and Papad making (6.67 % each). This was followed by goat rearing, preparation of Masala and tailoring (5.00 % each), preparation of diwali stuffs (4.17 %), mess (3.34 %) and preparation of syrup, preparation of Shevai and snacks center (2.50 % each). The other trades noticed were broom making, flour mill, paper bags making, pots making, vermi-compost making, Agarbatti making, dryfruits selling, preparation of aonla candy, preparation of decorative material and bag making (1.67 % each).

2 tables, 10 ref

022818   Bhimappa B B;Choudhary H (Vegetable Science Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: bhimappahort602@gmail.com) : Genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance in muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.). Ann agric Res 2017, 38(2), 212-7.

Highly significant differences were observed among 67 diverse muskmelon genotypes from different varietal groups studied for yield and yield contributing characters. Average fruit weight showed the highest phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation closely followed by yield per plant. The lowest value was recorded for number of fruits per plant followed by number of primary branches, days to first pistillate flower opening and days to first fruit harvest. All the characters exhibited less difference between GCV and PCV values and traits like days to first pistillate flower opening, fruit length, node number of first fruit set showed nearly equal GCV and PCV values indicating least influence of environment on their expression. The heritability estimates were generally high (above 80%) for all the characters except number of fruits per plant (47.02%). The maximum heritability was observed for seed length closely followed by fruit length. Genetic advance as percentage of mean was highest for average fruit weight (kg) followed by fruit length (cm) and yield per plant (kg). High heritability coupled with high GAM was observed for fruit - 233 - length (97.69, 83.30%); heritability coupled with high to moderate genetic advance was observed for fruit length and days from pollination to fruit harvest indicating that they are governed by additive genes and could be effectively improved through selection.

2 tables, 15 ref

022817   Bhavsar S;Pargi S;Jadav C (College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Anand Agricultural Univ, Godhra-389 001, Email: sbhavsar33@gmail.com) : Development of an improved twin wheel weeder. Agric Sci Dig 2017, 37(2), 122-6.

The existing twin wheel weeder was designed to minimize the high drudgery, time and high labor force required for the weeding. Modification of weeder was done to operate with adjustable height/length of rod, and to facilitates assembling and disassembling in less time to move very easily from one place to another. The modified weeder is tested on the field for weeding efficiency, field efficiency, soil mass manipulation, plant injury and compared with the existing twin wheel weeder. The moisture content of the testing field was found 19.3% (w.b). Soil mass manipulation was found better in modified twin wheel weeder 3276 cm³ than the existing one (2700 cm3). It was 90.9% for modified weeder where as 86.67% for the existing twin wheel weeder. It was 7.01% and 9.25% for modified twin wheel weeder and existing twin wheel weeder respectively. Field efficiency founed 88.33% and 85.29% respectively for modified and existing twin wheel weeder. The modified twin wheel weeder was found easy to transport from one place to another due to adjustable accessories.

6 illus, 5 tables, 4 ref

022816   Bhattacharjya B K;et al. (NO, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, HOUSEFED Complex, Dispur, Guwahati-781 006, Email: bkbhattacharjya@yahoo.com) : Recycling of commercial piggery wastes in semi-intensive carp polyculture under rain-fed pond environment in Assam: an economic analysis. J Inld Fish Soc India 2017, 49(1), 35-45.

An experiment was conducted on integrated pig-cum-fish farming in a large rain-fed pond (1.1 ha) in Assam, India. The pond stocked with fingerlings of Gibelion catla (species ratio 25%), Hypophthalmichthys molitrix (15%) Labeo rohita(5%),Barbonymus gonionotus (5%), Ctenopharyngodon idella - 232 - (10%), Cirrhinus mrigala (20%) and Cyprinus carpio (10%) at stocking density of 6000 no./ha received wastes from 18 piglets reared for 6 months. Specific growth rate and weight gain% was the highest in silver carp (2.24 and 5519%) followed by common carp (1.81,25.15%), grass carp (1.71,20.60%), catla (1.64,18.27%), mrigal (1.57,15.94%), silver barb (1.28,9.09%) and lowest in rohu (0.82,3.36%). Catla contributed highest to total of fish production (30.3%) followed by silver carp (24.2%) and common carp (20.2%). Average individual weight of pigs was 92 kg. The high fish production (3564 kg/ha/6 months), pig production (1656 kg/ 6 months) and B:C ratio (2.38) showed better profitability of pig-cum-fish farming in rainfed pond.

1 illus, 8 tables, 43 ref

022815   Bhatnagar A;Singh S P;Sridhar J;Dua V K;Ahmad I (NO, ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute Regional Station, Modipuram, Meerut-250 110, Email: dr.anujbhatnagar@gmail.com) : Effect of planting dates of thrips population and transmission of groundnut bud necrosis virus in early potato. Potato J 2017, 44(2), 130-4.

4 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

022814   Bhatnagar A;Jandrajupalli S;Venkateswarlu V; Malik K;Shah M A;Singh B P (NO, ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute Regional Station, Modipuram, Meerut-250 110, Email: dr.anujbhatnagar@gmail.com) : Mapping of aphid species associated with potato in India using morphological and molecular taxonomic approaches. Potato J 2017, 44(2), 117-25.

Field surveys were carried out from 2011 to 2015 in different potato growing areas of India for collecting aphid species infesting potato and the aphid species were identified using molecular and morphological approaches. Thirteen species of aphids were identified from different regions of the country. Myzus persicae (Sulzer) and Aphis gossypii Glover were the most common species and high population of these aphids was recorded on potato during first week of February in different parts of Uttar Pradesh. Aulacorthum solani (Kaltenbach) and Brachycaudus helichrysi (Kaltenbach) are being reported for the first time from India from Faizabad region of Uttar Pradesh. The black bean aphid, Aphis fabae Scopoli was identified from Manikpur and Tanda while as green citrus aphid, Aphis spiraecola Patch, oleander aphid, Aphis nerii Rothschild and coriander aphid, Hydaphis coriandri (Das) apart from Myzus persicae and Aphis gossypii were identified from Meerut during October to December. Rice root aphid, Rhophalosiphum rufiabdominalis (Sasaki), Myzus persicae, Aphis gossypii and Aphis spiraecola were identified from Jalandhar (Punjab). These findings need to be taken into consideration in the pest management for healthy seed potato production.

6 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

022813   Bhatia J;Bishnoi D;Punia D (Agricultural Economics Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: drjitenderkumarbhatia@gmail.com) : Farm women's participation in vegetable cultivation in kharif. Ann Agri Bio Res 2017, 22(1), 80-3.

In the present study, during the kharif season, the extent of women's participation was higher in weeding (153 scores) followed by picking/harvesting (146 scores), hoeing (139 - 231 - scores), loading/unloading (126 scores), cleaning of fields (120 scores), packaging (119 scores), grading (110 scores) and labour management (107 scores). It shows clearly the high level of participation of farm women in performing above-mentioned activities of manual nature, in which their labour force was more required. Maximum time was devoted by the respondents in labour intensive activities related to vegetable cultivation i. e. weeding (27.60;h) followed by picking/harvesting (22.86 h), hoeing (17.72 h), grading (11.26 h), labour management (11.14 h), packaging (11.02 h), transplanting (10.34 h), shifting at distance (8.43 h), loading/unloading (8.41 h) and on-farm sale of produce (7.62 h).

1 table, 7 ref