015417   Vinodkumar S B;Nautiyal P C;Singh G P;Singh K;Dwivedi N;Harikrishna (Seed Science and Technology Div, ICAR - Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi-110 012, Email: kumarsbvinod707@gmail.com) : Agronomic and physiological characterization of RILs for drought tolerance in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Green Fmg 2017, 8(1), 41-6.

A total of 206 recombinant inbreed lines (RILs) derived from cross between drought susceptible genotype WL711 and - 336 - popular drought tolerant genotype C306 along with checks (HD3043 and HD 2987) were evaluated in alpha lattice design with two replications under rainfed and fully irrigated conditions during rabi seasons, 2012-13 and 2013-14 at experimental farms of Indian Agricultural Research Institute New Delhi. Agronomical traits such as plant height (cm), spike length (cm), 1000-grain weight (g), grain yield (g plot^{-1), biomass (g m-2) and Harvest index were recorded along with physiological traits such as Normalized differential vegetative index (NDVI), Canopy temperature depression (CTD), chlorophyll content (SPAD-readings) at different phenological stages of crop growth. Analysis of variance revealed significant variability for all the traits studied. The overall population means yield reduction under rainfed condition was 40% significant differences for Genotype X conditions (rain-fed and fully irrigated condition) were observed among the RILs. The correlation and regression values were higher in rain-fed condition than the irrigated. Traits, such as 1000-grain weight, biomass, harvest index, CTD and NDVI showed significant correlation and regression values on grain yield under rainfed condition. These traits can be used as selection criteria to select genotypes suitable for water-deficit stress condition. The transgressive segregants superior to the drought tolerant parent C306 and checks were obtained. This study demonstrated the use of physiological traits as selection criteria to select genotypes for drought tolerance under field conditions.}

5 tables, 22 ref

015416   Vikram N;Husain R;Kewat R N;Singh P;Khan N A (Biochemistr Dep, N.D. Univ of Agril. & Technology, Kumarganj, Faizabad-224 229, Email: biochemistnitin@gmail.com) : Bio-chemical evaluation of landraces/hybrid rice in eastern Uttar Pradesh. Green Fmg 2017, 8(1), 20-4.

The physico-chemical characteristics such as physical (seed size, L/B ratio, grain classification), chemical (alkali spreading value, amylose content), cooking characteristics (cooking time, KLAC, elongation ratio), organoleptic quality and protein profiling were studied for landraces/hybrid rice varieties from Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Some of landraces/hybrid rice varieties are with excellent biochemical characteristics. The rice variety MEPH 113 which has good grain quality could be used in breeding programmes. Highest seed length (10.29 mm) and seed breadth (3.11 mm) and amylose content (24.53) was recorded in hybrid rice MEPH 113, whereas lowest value 7.89 mm, 2.00 mm and 14.58 for the same quality were observed in Narendra Lalmati and NDR 97 respectively. Maximum protein bands were recorded in NDR 97 and IR 64 (12) and minimum were recorded in XRA 27934. The paper has concentrated on the physical characteristics and organoleptic test and biochemical analysis with consumer preferences of rice varieties. Organoleptic analysis always helps the consumers to select better rice varieties for their consumption and use. It is also emphasized that the training and recruiting the sensory expert panel are important in the process of sensory analysis and organoleptic test. The co-efficient of correlation between L/B ratio and cooking time, alkali spreading value, amylose content was negative significant and seed length, seed breadth, KLAC were positive significant.

2 illus, 7 tables, 26 ref

015415   Vikram H C;Mini Raj N;Presanna Kumari K T; Nybe E V;Mathew D (Plantation Crops & Spices Dep, College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur-680 656, Email: n.miniraj@kau.in) : Variability in fruit characteristics of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) under Kerala conditions. J Spices aromatic Crop 2016, 25(2), 187-94.

Forty one accessions of nutmeg collected from diverse locations of Kerala of age 15 years were evaluated at Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur during 2012-14. Among these accessions, 38 were females and three were monoecious. The accessions were evaluated based on 17 fruit characters recorded from two trees per accession during two consecutive bearing seasons. The statistical parameter viz., mean, - 335 - range, phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), heritability (H^{2), genetic gain (GG) and genotypic correlation coefficients were calculated. High PCV and GCV were observed for the characters such as fruit weight, mace weight, mace volume, dry nut weight, kernel weight, fruit volume and number of fruits per tree. Hertability was high for all the characters except shell thickness. High GCV coupled with high hertability in the characters indicated the scope for yield improvement through selection based on these characters. Genetic gain was the highest for number of fruits per tree (144.3% followed by mace characters. Genetic gain was the highest for number of fruits per tree (144.3%) followed by mace characters viz., fresh and dry weight as well as volume of nut. Fruit weight was also significantly and positively correlated with fruit breadth, fruit volume and thickness of pericarp. Based on the results, accessions such as Acc. 9, Acc. 8 and Acc. 22 were found promising with respect to the economic characters viz., mace weight, nut weight, kernel weight and number of fruits per tree. These accessions can be used in further crop improvement programmes on nutmeg.}

4 tables, 12 ref

015414   Vegad G M;Yadav R;Yoganandi Y C (Farm Macchinery & Power Dep, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Mudra-370 421, Email: ryadav61@gmail.com) : Design optimization of rotary tillage tool components proportionate to tractor power using computer software. Green Fmg 0000, 8(1), 246-9.

The goal of the modern farming systems is to economize energy consumption and to reduce farming costs. Proper selection and use of agricultural machines are important factors to achieve this end. Rotary tillers are tillage tools that are used for accomplishment of both the primary and secondary tillage practices. Considering the widespread application of rotary tillers, optimal design of these machines is mandatory. Selection of appropriate tractor power and equipment is more complex and tedious due to computational work involved in solving the equations for optimal working width and optimal diameter of the rotary tiller's rotor proportionate with the tractor power. Therefore in this study, a computer programme was developed in visual basic language to calculate optimal working width and optimal diameter of the rotary tiller's rotor proportionate with the power of the tractor was delineated based on the energy method. This programme is based on the specific works of tractor and rotary tiller. Results obtained by using this software were validated by comparing the simulated dimensions with some of the commercially available rotary tillers. The variation between simulated and available data for different horsepower range 12, 45 and 105 hp were found to be within 5 per cent limit. Hence, the developed software can be used as a tool for designing rotavator for different horsepower ranges of tractor and soil conditions.

4 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

015413   Varadachari C;Mitra S;Ghosh K (Raman Centre for Applied and Interdisciplinary Sciences, 16A Jheel Road, Kolkata-700 075, Email: kghoshcu@gmail.com) : Photochemical oxidation of soil organic matter by sunlight. Proc Indian Natn Sci Acad 2017, 83(1), 223-9.

Although soils are considered as major carbon stores, rapid oxidation of soil organic carbon can - 334 - contribute to CO₂ evolution and global warming on a large scale. Generally, microbial and climatic factors are thought to be mainly responsible for such oxidative losses. Another probable factor is photodegradation by sunlight. Cultivated soils of the tropics are left barren for a greater part of the year particularly during summer when sunlight is at its peak intensity. This could cause photodecomposition of soil organic constituents and account for rapid losses of soil organic carbon. Studies showed that 2-14% of organic carbon in soils could be oxidized within 3 years by sunlight. This amounts to 5000-47,000 kg of CO₂ for every hectare of soil. Oxidation is not only due to the effect of light itself but also due to the heating caused by sunlight. Oxidative losses are higher in soils with higher levels of organic carbon and in soils of higher pH. It is suggested that covering soils with mulches or green cover during the fallow period in summer may be adopted to reduce photodegradative CO₂ losses from soils.

5 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

015412   Usha T N;Dedlani M (NO, Indian Agriculture Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: drushatn@gmail.com) : Study of free radical and peroxide scavenging enzymes and content in dfferent vigour lots of soybean (Glycine max). Legume Res 2016, 39(2), 233-6.

Free radical and lipid peroxidation are widely considered to be major contributor to seed deterioration in soybean. Three lots of soybean high, medium and low vigour were stored under ambient storage conditions. Free radical scavenging enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase activities and ascorbic acid contents were measured for a year with three months interval. There was gradual increase in the activities of glutathione reductase and catalase reaching a peak earliest in the low vigour seed lots than in medium and high vigour lots during storage, followed by a steady decline. Similar trend was noticed incase of ascorbic acid content. This is the first such report (of rise in the enzyme activity during seed aging) which needs detailed examination for validation.

2 tables, 18 ref

015411   Ughade S R;Tumbare A D;Surve U S (Agronomy Dep, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri-413 722, Email: santoshughade2008@gmail.com) : Sustainable production of tomato under different fertigation aspects in polyhouse environment. Green Fmg 2017, 8(1), 98-103.

A two years of experiment was conducted to study the effect of fertigation levels and schedules on growth, yield, physiological parameters and net monetary returns of summer tomato under polyhouse condition. The treatments include 3 fertigation levels (F₁- 60% of RDF, F₂- 80% of RDF, and F₃- 100% of RDF) and 3 fertigation schedules (S₁- 6 equal splits of RD of NPK at every 18 days interval, S₂- 9 equal splits of RD of NPK at every 12 days interval, S₃- 12 equal splits of RD of NPK at every 9 days interval). The results indicated that fertigation of 100% RD of NPK in 12 equal splits at every 9 days interval up to 120 DAT recorded significantly maximum growth, yield attributes and fruit yield, physiological parameters and net monetary returns unit-1 of polyhouse (784 m^{2). However it was at par with 80% RD of NPK in 12 equal splits at every 9 days interval up to 120 DAT. Positive and highly significant correlation was observed between growth and yield attributes viz., leaf area, number of fruits plant-1, average fruit weight and fruit weight plant-1 and physiological parameters viz., photosynthetic rate, CO₂ concentration, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, leaf water potential and total chlorophyll content. Whereas negative correlation was observed between yield attributes viz., number of fruits plant-1, average fruit weight and fruit weight plant-1 and stomatal resistance and leaf temperature at 150 DAT during both the years.}

5 tables, 17 ref

015410   Udyavara;Vilasini;Madambithra;Sivadasan; Sangeetha;Moleyur;Nagarajappa;Venugopal (Fisheries Microbiology Dep, College of Fisheries, Manglore, Karnataka-575 002) : Prevalence of Salmonella in harvested shellfish along the coast of Karnataka. Int J appl Sci Engng Res 2017, 6(2), 34-41.

Shellfishes are filter feeding organisms that are capable of concentrating the pathogens from their living habitat. Salmonella is an enterobacteriace member that causes food poisoning in human beings. The sea food is commonly contaminated with this bacterium through the sewage contamination in the coastal areas. Many researchers studied the prevalence of this bacterium from the sea food and observed the prevalence ranging from 1% to 25%. In our study we recorded 10.3% of the samples showed prevalence from the collected samples. The antibiogram assay was performed for the isolated bacteria, and it was found that the isolates we obtained were sensitive to 45% of the antibiotics tested and the gene responsible for the resistance to antibiotics were tested, but the tested gene showed negative PCR results that indicates although the - 333 - resistance showed phenotypically, but the resistance developed may be due to other gene or mechanism.

1 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

015409   Tripathy S K;Panda A;Lenka D (Plant Breeding & Genetics Dep, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar-751 003, Email: swapankumartripathy@gmail.com) : Cytological elucidation of somaclonal variation in grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L.). Legume Res 2016, 39(2), 177-82.

A cytological study of root tips, primary calli, sub-culture calli and regenerants of grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L) cv. Nayagarh local was carried out for elucidation of the origin of tissue culture instability and somaclonal variation. Wide range of euploids, aneuploids and structural variations of chromosomes including stickiness, multipolar spindle, asymmetric chromatid separation, binucleate cells with micronuclei and chromosome bridges and fragments could be the cause for tissue culture instability. Frequency of chromosomal anomalies in calli increased with the age of subculrure and the increase was more in B5 medium supplemented with 2, 4-D than NAA. Majority of the abnormalities happens to be sieved off owing to morphogenetic selectivity. While, a few of these were carried on to regenerants as evidenced from mitotic (euploid, aneuploid and structural variation) and meiotic (interchanges and/or loss of chromosome segments following breakage events, lack of pairing resulting univalents, precocious and late separation of bivalents, anaphase laggards, conspicuous anaphase bridges with or without acentric fragments, chromosome rings, tetrad with multinucleoli) abnormalities in regenerants. Such carry-over events have been substantiated as the origin of somaclonal variation in regenerants.

3 tables, 33 ref

015408   Tripathy P;Sahoo B B;Patel D;Dash D K (All India Network Research Project on Onion and Garlic, College of H, Orissa University of Agriculture & Technology, Sambalpur-768 025, Email: ptripathy_ouat05@rediffmail.com) : Efficacy of sulphur on growth, yield and bulb quality in onion (Allium cepa L.). J Spices aromatic Crop 0000, 25(1), 60-4.

Sulphur has been recognised as an important nutrient for higher yield and quality of onion (Allium cepa L.) bulbs. Field experiment was conducted during rabi, 2010-11 to 2012-13 to study the efficacy of sulphur nutrition in onion. The treatment combination consisted of two sources of sulphur (gypsum and elemental sulphur) and four levels of sulphur (0, 15, 30 and 45 kg ha^{-1) in Factorial RBD with - 332 - three replications. The pooled results over three years revealed significantly higher efficacy of gypsum over elemental sulphur for polar diameter (3.13 cm), bulb weight (48.37 g) and marketable bulb yield (101.39 q ha-1). Similarly, irrespective of sources, sulphur @ 30 kg ha-1 recorded significantly higher plant height (55.78 cm), number of leaves plant-1 (11.08), bulb weight (67.34 g), bulb yield (marketable, 160.71 q ha-1 and total 224.52 q ha-1) and TSS (12.03%) with higher BC ratio (1.47) as well as better shelf life. Application of sulphur @ 30 kg ha-1 as gypsum may be recommended in onion crop for obtaining higher bulb yield with higher BC ratio and better keeping quality.}

2 tables, 10 ref

015407   Timke S H;Shetgar S S;Khandare R Y;Surwase S R;Bhosale A B (Agricultural Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Latur-413 512, Email: sarikatimke@gmail.com) : Life-fecundity tables of Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens) on Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) at different temperature levels. J ent Res 2016, 40(1), 105-8.

The survival of immature stages (I_x) to the extent of 0.87, 0.94 and 0.67 per individual within a pivotal age of 40, 20 and 13 days, the net reproductive rate (R_o) to the tune of 19.56, 68.27 and 9.63 females per female per generation, the mean length of generation time (T) to the extent of 59.95, 35.61 and 23.84 days, innate capacity for increase in numbers to the tune of 0.0496, 0.1186 and 0.0950 female per female per day and finite rate of increase in numbers of the extent of (λ) 1.05, 1.13 and 1.09 females per female, were recorded in respect of Chrysoperia carnea when growth on sterilized eggs of Corcyra cephalonica at different temperature levels, respectively.

5 tables, 6 ref

015406   Thakre D;Samant B;Mohabey D M;Sangode S; Srivastava P;Kapgate D K;Mahajan R;Upreti N;Manchester S R (Geology Dep, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur Univ, Nagpur-440 001, Email: bandanabhu@gmail.com) : New insight into age and environments of intertrappean beds of Mohgaon kalan, Chindwara district, Madhya Pradesh using palynology, megaflora, magnetostratigraphy and clay mineralogy. Curr Sci 2017, 112(11), 2193-7.

2 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

015405   Tayyab M;Nazir Z;Tahira U;Arshad M;Abubakar M;Arshad M R;Raza M S (NO, , ) : Study of citrus scab disease prevalence on kinnow mandarin (Citrus reticulata blanco) in Sargodha region of Pakistan, during 2012-13. Archiv appl Sci Res 2016, 8(1), 13-16.

Citrus scab (Elsinoe fawcettii Bitancourt & Jenkins) attacks the citrus fruit, leaves and twigs, producing slightly raised, irregular scabby or wart-like outgrowths. The study was conducted in the citrus growing areas of District Sargodha Pakistan, to estimate the severity of disease during the years 2012 and 2013. The results showed that, severity of citrus scab disease in 2012 remained 17.13% and 18.70% during the months of July and August respectively. In 2013, maximum disease severity was observed to be 24.38% during November. Disease severity had no significant relationship with minimum and maximum temperatures while % age relative humidity showed significant effect on the disease development during 2012.

015404   Taibi A;Gacemi A;Medjdoub Y;Medjdoub I; Doumandji S (Agronomy Dep, University of Aboubakr Belkaid, Tlemcen, Algeria, Email: abdelhamid_gacemi@yahoo.fr) : Citrus infestation by the black scale, Parlatoria ziziphi Lucas (Homoptera: Diaspididae) in Tlemcen, Algeria. J ent Res 2016, 40(3), 217-21.

In a 2-year study on black scale, Parlatoria ziziphi Lucas (Homoptera, Diaspididae) infestation on two citrus varities viz., Thomson and Portuguese at EI Fehoul station in Tlemcen North-West of Algeria, Parlatoria ziziphi was found infesting both varieties. The upper surface of leaves was always more infested than the lower surface by Parlatoria ziziphi for both Thomson and Portuguese varieties. In terma of leaves infestaiton rates, it's very important at the southern exposure and the center of the plot for Thomson variety, and with 100% in the southern and northern exposure of the Portuguese variety. In case of fruit, the rate of infestation is the most important in the south of plot with 87.9% for Thomson variety and 79% for the Portuguese variety. The infestation rate of the leaves does not change after harvesting the fruit. This species of scale insect is cosmopolitan and attacks many species of Citrus family. It is also very common on citrus in - 331 - Algeria.

5 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

015403   Surwase S R;Shetgar S S;Khandare R Y;Magar S J;Nalwandikar P K (Agricultural Entomology Dep, College of Agriculure, Latur-413 512, Email: surwaseseema333@rediffmail.com) : Biology of Cryptolaemus montrouzieri mulsant on mealy bugs and aphids. J ent Res 2016, 40(1), 95-100.

A - 330 - study on biology of Cryptolaemus montrouzieri on mealy bugs and aphids indicated that the incubation period of C. montrouzieri was observed to be significantly minimum to the extent of 4.59 days on P. solenopsis followed by 4.94 days (M. hirsutus) and 5.29 days (A. gossypii). The significantly maximum egg hatching of C. montrouzieri (91.40 per cent) was observed on M. hirsutus followed by P. solenopsis (85.80 per cent) and A. gossypii (79.20 per cent). The significantly shortest larval duration (22.99 days) and highest growth index (3.88) were observed in the case of those larvae of C. montrouzieri which were grown on P. solenopsis followed by M. hirsutus (25.02 days and 3.46). The larval development of C. montrouzieri was completed by passing through four instars on mealy bugs and aphids under investigation. The mean larval instar duration of C. montrouzieri was observed to be minimum to the extent of 4.60 days of P. solenopsis followed by M. hirsustus (5.00 days) and A. gossypii (5.66 days). The significantly lowest pupal duration to the extent of 7.97 days was observed when grown on P. solenopsis followed by 9.95 days on M. hirsutus and 11.66 days on A. gossypii. Significantly the highest adult emergence of C. montrouzieri to the tune of 84.84 per cent was observed in the case of those larvae which were reared on P. solenopsis followed by M. hirsutus (80.38 per cent) and A. gossypii (72.11 per cent). The significantly lowest development period C. montrouzieri to the extent of 38.29 days was recorded on P. solenopsis. The significantly highest longevity of male and female beetles of C. montrouzieri was recorded on P. solenopsis and M. hirsutus, respectively. Significantly the shortest life - cycle duration to the extent of 102.39 and 110.19 days by male and female beetles of C. montrouzieri was observed on A. gossypii. The significantly lowest pre-oviposition period of C. montrouzieri to the tune of 7.56 days was recorded on M. hirsutus followed by P. solenopsis (7.70 days). The significantly highest oviposition period (42.06) of C. montrouzieri was observed when fed on P. solenopsis followed by M. hirsutus (34.24 days). The female beetle of C. montrouzieri laid significantly highest eggs (205.2) when its immature stage fed on M. hirsutus followed by P. solenopsis (96.33). While its egg laying was significantly lowest (51.80) on A. gossypii.

1 table, 22 ref

015402   Suma H K;Kumara P M;Srimany A;Ravikanth G; Umapathy S K;Pradeep T;Vasudeva R;Shaanker R U (Crop Physiology Dep, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru-560 065, Email: umashaanker@gmail.com) : Spatial and temporal distribution patterns of Camptothecin in seeds and fruits of Pyrenacatha volubilis Hook, (Icacinaceae) during different fruit developemental stages. Curr Sci 2017, 112(5), 1034-8.

Camptothecin (CPT), a quinoline indole alkaloid, is one of the important inhibitors of eukaryotic DNA topoisomerase I. The highest concentration of this alkaloid has been reported from the fruits of Pyrenacantha volubilis Hook. Here we report the spatial and temporal distribution pattern of CPT in seeds and fruits of P. volubilis. Temporally, CPT content was highest in mature but unripe fruits compared to ripened fruits. Spatially, cotyledonary tissues of the seed had the highest amount of CPT followed by seed coat and fruit coat. This pattern is best explained by selection to deter fruit predators during fruit development, but attracting the fruit dispersers when fruits are mature and ripe.

4 illus, 22 ref

015401   Sruthi D;Zachariah T J (NO, ICAR- Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode-673 012, , Email: zacjohntj@gmail.com) : Phenolic profiling of Piper species by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. J Spices aromatic Crop 2016, 25(2), 123-32.

In the present study, phenolic compounds from four Piper species viz., P. nigrum (Black pepper), P.longum, P. chaba and P. colubrinum were identified by LC-MS analysis. The identified phenolic compounds mainly include phenolic acids and flavonoids. Thirteen compounds were identified in black pepper which mainly included hydroxybenzoic acids (syringic acid, protocatechuic acid etc.), hydroxycinnamic acids (caffeic acid, ferulic acid and 4-coumaric acid) and flavonoids (luteolin-8-C-glucoside and apigenin). Among the six compounds identified in P. longum, three belonged to hydroxybenzoic acid and the other three belonged to hydroxycinnamic acid category. Seven compounds were identified from P. chaba which comprised of hydroxybenzoic acids, phenolic aldehydes and hydroxycinnamic acids. In P. colubrinum, ten compounds were identified and majority were flavonoids like kaempferol-5-glucoside and apigenin-7-galactoside. Hydroxybenzoic acids like protocatechuic acid and phenolic aldehyde like vanillin were also identified in P. colubrinum. Salicylic acid, a monohydroxybenzoic acid was identified in all the four species.

5 illus, 4 tables, 31 ref

015400   Srinivasan J;Srimathi P;Selvaraju P (Seed Science and Technology Dep, APAC, Vellore-636 506, Email: srinisst@gmail.com) : Influence of seed treatment with biocontrol agents, bio-fertilizers and humic acid on seed longevity of COH (M) 5 maize hybrid. Green Fmg 2017, 8(1), 227-31.

The studies conducted with improved seed management practices are required to exploit the storability of maize. The maize COHM 5 seeds were primed with biofertilizer (20% Azospirillum, 20% Phospho bateria) and biocontrol (80% - 329 - Pseudomonas fluorescens and 80% Tricoderma viride) along with hydro priming and control. Storage studies on evaluation of seeds primed with talc based biocontrol agent and liquid form of humic acid and biofertilizer revealed that seed primed with 20 per cent humic acid with the seed to solution ratio of 1:2 for 12h and stored in moisture vapour container preserved the viability for longer time recording 91 per cent germination after 9 months and 75 per cent germination after 15 months along with higher seedling and biochemical vigour characters.

1 illus, 6 tables, 21 ref

015399   Srikanth S;Kanthaswamy V;Ramesh Kumar S (Horticulture Dep, Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Manakkadavu, Pallachi-642 103, Email: rameshamar06@gmail.com) : Genetic analysis of paprika genotypes for dry fruit yield in Chilli. J Spices aromatic Crop 2016, 25(2), 200-05.

Ten genotypes of paprika were evaluated for mean performance, variability parameters and association of characters towards dry fruit yield. Based on mean performance, genotype C-6 ('U.S.609') was the best for all characters except number of seed fruit^{-1, ascorbic acid, oleoresin content, capsaicin and capsanthin content. High estimates of genotypic coefficients of variation for numbers of primary branches, dry fruit yield plant-1, fresh ripe fruit yield plant-1 and fruit length indicated that the major part of variability was due to genetic makeup for these traits. Fruit length, fresh ripe fruit yield plant-1 and dry fruit yield plant-1 had higher genetic advance coupled with high heritability indicates the additive gene action. Among the characters analyzed for association it could be concluded that number of fruit plant-1, fruit length, plant height, days from anthesis to harvest and number of primary branches plant-1 would be appropriate selection parameters for improvement of fresh fruit field.}

4 tables, 13 ref

015398   Sreelakshmi P;Paul A (Agricultural Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram-695 522, Email: siree4798@gmail.com) : Bioefficacy of certain nre insecticide molecules against spotted pod borer, Maruca vitrata (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) of cowpea. J ent Res 2016, 40(2), 173-6.

Studies on the management of resistant populations of Maruca virata (F.) revealed that 100% mortality was recorded in the population treated with spinosad 75 g a.i. ha^{-1 emamectin benzoate 10 g a.i. ha-1 and indoxacarb + acetamiprid 100 g a.i. ha-1 after 12 h of treatment under laboratory trial. No significant difference was observed in the mortality when treated with chemicals like chlorantraniliprole 30 g a.i. ha-1, indoxacarb 60 g a.i. ha-1, flubendiamide 100 g a.i. ha-1 and acephate + imidacloprid 518 g a.i. ha-1 which showed a per cent mortality of 93.33 per cent each and less mortality was recorded in population sprayed with chlorpyriphos 600 g a.i. ha-1 (20<37) and novaluron 100 g a.i. ha-1 (33.33%) after 24 h of treatment under laboratory trial.}

1 table, 17 ref

015397   Sreeja K;Anandaraj M;Bhai R S (NO, ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode-673 012, Email: sreejajyothi@gmail.com) : In vitro evaluation of fungal endophytes of black pepper against Phytophthora capsici and Radopholus similis. J Spices aromatic Crop 0000, 25(2), 113-22.

Experiment on in vitro screening of 125 endophytic fungi of black against Phytophthora capsici indicated that 23 idolates showed more than 50% inhibition. The nematicidal activity of metobolites from endophytic fungi was also tested on Radopholus similis and the isolate BPEF73 (Daldinia eschscholtzii) shoed highest mortality up to 60%. The isolates showing biocontrol potential were characterized based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS1 and ITS2) regions of rDNA. The sequence analysis of the isolates showed maximum identity with Annulohypoxylon nitens (BPEF25 and BPEF38), Daldinia eschscholtzii (BPEF41 and BPEF73), Fusarium spp. (BPEF72 and BPEF75), Ceriporia lacerata (BPEF81), Diaporthe sp. (BPEF11) and Phomopsis sp. (BPEF83). - 328 - The is first report of endophytic association of above fungi in black pepper and the exploitation of their biocontrol potential against the major black pepper pathogens P. capsici and R. similis.

5 illus, 4 tables, 33 ref

015396   Sree E K;Reddy R V S K (Senior Scientist & Head, KVK, West Godavari, Andhra Pradesh, Email: kvk_vrgudemphu@rediffmail.com) : Promotion of entrepreneurship among tribal women under tribal sub plan scheme. J Agric Ext Mgmt 2017, 18(1), 59-70.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Venkataramannagudem is working in 25 upland mandals of west Godavari district including seven tribal mandals, to conduct location specific technology demonstrations and vocational training for the farming community. During the preliminary visits and information collected through secondary sources regarding the livelihood activities of tribal women, "processing and value addition to millets" was identified as a suitable vocation for tribal women. The activity was taken up under tribal sub plan programme of the KVK during the year 2015-16. Thirty tribal SHG women attended this training. After the training these women were divided into two Common Interest Groups (CIGs) i.e. Girivanitha and Giriposhana and they started preparation of millet based products. Both the groups are supplying their products to 28 tribal welfare schools. Every month each group is getting an amount of Rs.2 lakh under supplementary nutrition programme of the tribal welfare schools.

1 illus, 4 tables, 6 ref

015395   Solanki I S;Rana A (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, College of Agriculture, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural U, Hisar-125 004, Email: solanki255@rediffmail.com) : Induction and harnessing of polygenic variability in lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.). Legume Res 2016, 39(2), 170-6.

Three mutagenised populations each of gamma rays, - 327 - sodium azide (SA) and ethyl methane sulphonate (EMS) showed increased amount of variability over control for different polygenic traits in both macrosperma (LH90-54) and microsperma (LH89-48) lentil cultivars in M2 generation. Among the mutagens tested, EMS induced maximum variability for all the traits, followed by gamma rays and SA in both the cultivars. The highest frequencies of mutated [M2 progenies with higher coefficient of variation (CV) than the corresponding highest CV in control for any of the traits] and promising progenies [M₂ mutated progenies where mean shifted in the desired direction] were induced by different mutagens in the order: EMS <62> gamma rays <62> SA in both the cultivars (LH90-54 <62> LH89-48). In LH 90-54, promising progenies with multiple traits were induced with the highest frequency by SA, followed by EMS and gamma rays, whereas in LH89-48, they were induced with the highest frequency by SA, followed by gamma rays and EMS. Invariably, the medium dose of mutagens (0.08% SA, 0.40% EMS and 10 kR gamma rays) induced maximum variability (CV, %), resulting in the highest number of promising progenies for all the polygenic traits.

4 tables, 13 ref

015394   Smitha S;Seshagiri S V;Goel A K;Raju P J (Sericulture Dep, STSN Govt. Degree College, Kadiri, Anantpur Dist., Andhra Pradesh, Email: saismitha.vanyasilks@gmail.com) : Empowerment of rural youth through sericulture in Andhra Pradesh - present scenario and prospects ahead. J Agric Ext Mgmt 2017, 18(1), 71-87.

The youth are considered as the backbone and cream of the nation. Youth are the primary productive human resource of socio-economic development. It is therefore, essential to locate the role of youth in mainstream development. Youth are the important asset of a nation but they are being exploited by different agencies and their capabilities and competencies are not fully utilized by the nation. Rural youth are not only the future of food security but also for the growth of agriculture and development of allied enterprises. Rural youth face many hurdles while trying to earn a livelihood. While most of the world's food is produced by (ageing) smallholder farmers in developing countries, older farmers are less likely to adopt the new technologies needed for sustainable increase in agricultural productivity and ultimately feed the growing world population. The focus should be on how to make agriculture and allied enterprises such as Sericulture, Animal husbandry etc., more attractive and rewarding to the younger generation. Being a rural agro-based labour intensive industry, the sericulture sector plays a vital role for checking the migration from rural to urban areas. The very nature of this industry with its rural based on farm and off-farm activities and enormous employment generation potential attracted the attention of policy makers to recognize the industry as one of the most appropriate avenues for socio-economic development of a largely agrarian economy like India. Hence, we need to engage youth in agriculture and allied enterprises like sericulture.

4 tables, 7 ref

015393   Singh Y P;Singh V B (Vegetable Science Dep, Narendra Deva Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar, Kumarganj, Faizabad-224 229, Email: yamunasingh1947@gmail.com) : Study on gene action inheritance for growth, yield and yield traits in sponge gourd [Luffa culindrica (Roem) L.]. Green Fmg 2017, 8(1), 65-8.

In present investigation 54 genotypes (10 lines + 4 testers + 40 F1's) of sponge gourd was conducted in Randomized Block Design with three replications to know the gene effects with respect to its nature and magnitude for growth, yield and its contributing characters. Combining ability analysis elucidated higher magnitude of variances due to SCA (σ^{2s) than variance due to GCA (σ2g) indicating preponderance of non-additive gene action for almost characters. The values of dominance genetic variance (σ2D) higher than additive genetic variance (σ2A) and as a consequence average degree of dominance were more than unity (<62>1) for all - 326 - the characters under study except for days to anthesis of first staminate flower, days to anthesis of first pistillate flower, days to first fruit harvest, number of primary branches per plant, inter nodal length, fruit length and fruit circumference in both the years which indicated existence of dominance gene effects for these traits. Days to anthesis of first staminate flower, days to anthesis of first pistillate flower, days to first fruit harvest, number of primary branches per plant, inter nodal length, fruit length, fruit circumference and number of fruits per plant which had less than one value of average degree of dominance suggested existence of partial dominance. The predictability ratio was lesser than (<1) for all the characters under study in both the years except fruit circumference in case of Y1. High estimate of heritability in narrow-sense was recorded for all fourteen traits in both the years and high estimate of genetic advance in per cent of mean (<62>20%) was observed for average fruit weight in Y1 along with moderate estimate of genetic advance in per cent of mean was observed for average fruit weight in Y2. These results clearly indicates that non-additive gene action were in preponderance practice of exploration of hybrid vigor in sponge gourd.}

2 tables, 22 ref

015392   Singh R K;Dubey B K;Gupta R P (NO, National Horticultural Research and Development Foundation, Post-Darna Sangavi, Taluka-Niphad, Nashik-422 003, Email: singhrknbpgr@gmail.com) : Genotype x enfironment interaction and stability analysis for yield and its attributes in garlic (Allium sativum L.). J Spices aromatic Crop 2016, 25(2), 175-81.

Genotype environment interaction is very important to the plant breeder in developing improved varieties. The present investigation was carried out at National Horticultural Research and Development Foundation, Karnal to identify the suitable and stable genotypes for Rabi season with higher yield and others horticultural attributes. It is concluded from present investigation that the genotype G-384, G-324, G-378, G-376 and check Yamuna Safed-3 (G-282) performed well in favorable environment for gross well as marketable yield and considered as most stable and responsive genotype as it possess higher yield along with the bi=one or near one and non-significant S^{2di values and hence could be recommended for adoptability. These above genotypes can be further exploited in breeding programme for increasing the production of garlic.}

3 tables, 14 ref

015391   Singh M K;Ram Chandra;Aradhana Kumari; Srinivastava D K (Mycology and Plant Pathology Dep, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh) : In-vitro evaluation of botanical extracts againts Alternaria - 325 - solani causing early blight of potato. Indian J Life Sci 2016, 5(2), 7-9.

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is an important food crop of the world. The early blight of potato is caused by Sorauer is one of the world's most atrophic diseases. The first symptoms usually appear on older leaves and consist of small, irregular, dark brown to black, dead spots ranging in size from a pinpoint to 1/2 inch in diameter. As the spots enlarge, concentric rings may form as a result of irregular growth patterns by the organism in the leaf tissue. These botanical extracts were added to the culture media at two concentration viz. 10% and 30% and tested by poisoned food technique. Among the four botanical extract evaluated Neem Seed Kernel Extract was significantly superior over the control and other botanical extract. The Result reveals that Neem Seed Kernel Extract was best botanical extract and found highly inhibiting the mycelia growth of at both the concentration viz. 10% and 30% (50% and 99.33% inhibition respectively). This was followed by Neem Leaf Extract, Madar Leaf Extract and Neem Bark Extract accordingly at both concentrations.

1 table, 13 ref

015390   Singh K P;Chaplot P C;Sumeriya H K;Choudhary G L (Agronomy Dep, Maharana Pratap Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Udaipur-313 001, Email: kptogas@gmail.com) : Performance of single-cut forage sorghum genotypes to fertility levels. Forage Res 2016, 42(2), 140-2.

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2015 at Udaipur, Rajasthan on clay loam soil to assess the effect of fertility levels [50% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF)], 75 per cent RDF, 100 per cent RDF (80 kg N+40 kg P2O5+40 kg K2O/ha) and 125 per cent RDF on single-cut forage sorghum genotypes (SPH 1752, CSH 13, PC 1080, SPV 2185, CSV 20 and CSV 23). Among single-cut forage sorghum genotypes, SPH 1752 proved significantly superior in respect to plant height, stem girth, leaves/plant, leaf : stem ratio and dry matter accumulation. These improvements in growth led the genotype SPH 1752 to produce significantly higher green and dry fodder yield by 9.9, 11.6, 15.2, 31.0, 34.7, and 9.7, 11.5, 13.5, 28.8 and 32.2 per cent over genotypes CSH 13, CSV 23, SPV 2185, PC 1080 and CSV 20, respectively. This genotype also fetched highest net returns of Rs. 57516/ha and B : C ratio of 2.40. The crop fertilized with 125 per cent RDF recorded significantly highest plant height, stem girth, leaves/plant, leaf : stem ratio and dry matter accumulation over application of 100, 75 and 50 per cent RDF. The magnitude of increase in green and dry fodder yield was of the order of 4.6, 11.4, 18.6 and 10.1, 17.8, 29.1 per cent, respectively. Application of 125 per cent RDF also fetched highest net returns (Rs. 50660/ha) and B : C ratio (2.00) as compared to lower fertility levels.

^ssc1 table, 6 ref

015389   Singh K P;Chaplot P C;Choudhary G L;Jani P P; Rakesh Kumar;Sumeriya H K (Agronomy Dep, Maharana Pratap Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Udaipur-313 001, Email: kptogas@gmail.com) : Effect of fertility levels on quality of single-cut forage sorghum genotypes. Forage Res 2017, 42(4), 279-81.

A field experiment was conducted on clay loam soils of the Instructional Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan) to study the effect of fertility levels viz., 50 per cent - 324 - recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), 75 per cent RDF, 100 per cent RDF (80 kg N + 40 kg P2O5 + 40 kg K2O ha-1) and 125 per cent RDF on quality of single-cut forage sorghum genotypes (SPH 1752, CSH 13, PC 1080, SPV 2185, CSV 20 and CSV 23) during kharif season of 2015. Single-cut forage sorghum genotype SPH 1752 synthesized significantly higher chlorophyll content in leaves as compared to rest of genotypes under study. The lower HCN content in green forage was recorded in genotype PC 1080 as compared to rest of the genotypes. Genotype SPH 1752 exhibited maximum crude protein, crude fibre and ether extract content. While concentration of mineral ash was maximum in genotype CSH 13. The genotype PC 1080 and CSV 20 recorded highest concentration of nitrogen free extract and total digestible nutrient in fodder, respectively. Genotype SPH 1752 proved significantly superior in respect to crude protein, crude fibre, mineral ash, ether extract, nitrogen free extract and total digestible nutrient uptake in dry fodder. The crop fertilized with 125 per cent RDF recorded highest chlorophyll content and HCN content in green fodder. This fertility level significantly increased content and uptake of crude protein, crude fibre, mineral ash and ether extract over lower fertility levels. Increasing fertility levels caused significant reduction in nitrogen free extract and total digestible nutrient content in dry fodder which were highest in 50 per cent RDF but application of 125 per cent RDF significantly increased uptake of nitrogen free extract and total digestible nutrient uptake by dry fodder.

^ssc2 tables, 6 ref

015388   Singh D;Alka Kumari;Chauhan A (NO, National Dairy Development Board, Anand-388 001, Email: dsingh@nddb.coop) : Evaluation of biomass yield, quality and nutrients uptake potential of exotic & indigenous beet varieties for green fodder. Green Fmg 2017, 8(1), 237-41.

A two years study was conducted to evaluate, thirteen beet varieties belonging to sugarbeet, fodder beet and vegetable beet types for fresh biomass yield, quality parameters and nutrient uptake potential for green fodder purpose. The fresh biomass and dry matter yield was observed better in sugarbeet varieties that ranged from 63.52 to 70.46 tonnes/ha and 13.77 to 14.86 tonnes/ha, respectively as compared to fodder & vegetable beet varieties. Sugarbeet varieties recorded significantly higher brix content (10.2 to 12.4%) than the fodder beet (6.10 to 8.50%). But sugarbeet varieties registered lower quality parameters values than fodder and vegetable beet varieties. Dry matter content range was recorded higher in sugarbeet varieties (20.58 to 22.04%) as compared to fodder beet (13.31 to 19.73%) and vegetable beet variety (19.95%). Overall macro and micro mineral content was observed higher in fodder and vegetable beet varieties as compared to sugarbeet varieties. However, mean data showed slightly better primary, secondary and micro nutrients uptake by sugarbeet varieties as compared to fodder and vegetable beet varieties. Mean nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P₂O₅) and potash (K₂O) uptake was found to be 250.0, 76.7 and 180.9 kg/ha in sugarbeet varieties and 200.2, 57.6 and 155.6 kg/ha in fodder beet varieties, respectively.

1 illus, 4 tables, 15 ref

015387   Singh B;Narender Kumar;Harish Kumar (SNIATTE, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: bhupi_hau@yahoo.com) : Seasonal incidence and management of sorghum shoot fly, Atherigona soccata rondani. Forage Res 2017, 42(4), 218-24.

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (Linn.) Moench] is an important cereal crop of the world. This crop is vulnerable to over 150 insect species from sowing to final harvest. Among the insect pests, the shoot fly (Atherigona soccata Rondani) is one of the most important and destructive pest which causes considerable losses in fodder as well as grain yield. Due to introduction of improved sorghum varieties and hybrids susceptible to this insect and continuous cropping, it has become a principal pest of the sorghum. This pest attacks on the sorghum crop at seedling stage causing maximum damage during the rainy season. The larva of this pest attacks on central whorl of the plant and causes 'dead heart' formation. Various methods have been suggested to control this pest. Use of resistant genotypes is the simplest method to control - 323 - any pest without polluting the environment. A number of genotypes have been screened by various workers depicting resistance against the shoot fly. The sorghum crop grown early or timely can easily escape the incidence of this pest. So, the modification of date of sowing can also prove to be an effective method for management of this pest. The sorghum shoot fly can also be managed by using various types of traps. The fish meal and hanging type traps can be used for catching the adults of this pest. For each insect pest, there is also available parasitoid or predator in the crop ecosystem. Natural enemies also play an important role in reducing the shoot fly population, considerably. Intercropping of sorghum with other crops attractive to this pest can also be used as trap crop to reduce the shoot fly incidence on main crop. The intercropping also enhances the degree of parasitism. The seed treatment and foliar spray of recommended insecticides can also be used for effective management of sorghum shoot fly. Botanicals like neem oil, NSKE, karanj oil, Azadirachtin etc are also used widely against sorghum shoot fly which can reduce the pest population to a considerable level without causing any harm to non target organisms. The combination of two or more control practices may be used to suppress the sorghum shoot fly population below economic threshold level.

^iia65 ref

015386   Singh A K;Rao S S (College of Agriculture and Research Station, Indira Gandhi Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Raigarh-496 001, Email: singh_ajit8@yahoo.co.in) : Evaluation of coriander germplasm for yield and powdery mildew resistance. J Spices aromatic Crop 2016, 25(1), 70-2.

Experiment was conducted during rabi to identify coriander lines resistant to powdery mildew and high yield. Twelve entries were included for evaluation with one each of national check as well as local check. The result showed that out of 12, four lines were found susceptible to disease and remaining were moderately resistant. In the present study coriander line Cor-31 (DH220) produced the highest yield 1021.53 kg ha^{-1 with moderate resistant reaction against powdery mildew. The area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) and apparent rate of infection (r) values were 502.24 and 0.035, respectively.}

2 tables, 7 ref

015385   Singh A K (NO, , 2924, Sector-23, Gurgaon, Haryana-122 017, Email: anurudhksingh@gmail.com) : Revisiting the status of cultivated plant species agrobiodiversity in India: an overview. Proc Indian Natn Sci Acad 2017, 83(1), 151-74.

A revisit to the literature on cultivated plant species agrobiodiversity in India revealed that the floristic diversity is represented by 17,926 species of angiosperm, while Indian agriculture cultivates 811 plant species and harbours more than 900 wild relatives of the cultivated plant species distributed over 10 (+ 1) biogeographic regions of the the country, significantly higher than commonly cited in the literature. Further, it revealed the role of Indian communities in domestication to cultivation of around 215 economically important plant species, and adaption of around 600 exotic crop species. Based on new evidence, several species require inclusion and others deletion, and many need further investigations to resolve the issue on country of their origin. Cultivation of crop species in diverse natural and man-made agroecological systems for centuries has generated a huge amount of genetic diversity in a large number of crop species, maintained by the farmers in the form of landraces or farmer's varieties, and conserved as collections/accessions in the national agricultural research system.

^iia3 tables, 93 ref

015384   Sindhu N;Malik J S;Shehrawat P S (Extension Education Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 001, Email: psshehrawat1965@gmail.com) : Alternative measures for shifting conventional agriculture to green farming : a study on perception of farmers. Green Fmg 2017, 8(1), 168-71.

The present study was conducted in two district of Haryana state i.e. Karnal and Sirsa. Both the districts utilized the highest percentage of agrochemicals in the state. Form both the districts a total number of 120 farmers were interviewed. The study revealed that most of the farmers' perceived agrochemicals have harmful effects on human beings but only a few believed that agrochemicals can cause miscarriages and abnormalities in babies. Similarly most of the farmers perceived that agrochemicals can adversely affects on birds & animals but only few of them believed that they can cause physical disorders, still birth, thinning of eggs and other disorders. The study also revealed very high perception of farmers regarding adverse affects on environment. Results related to alternatives to chemical fertilizers revealed that according to the farmers green manuring, poultry litter/manure, organic manure, compost/vermicompost, spent compost, bio-gas slurry and ash can be most effective alternative to chemical fertilizers whereas use of pesticides with low toxicity, insect and disease resistant plants, genetically modified crops and use of neem leaves were felt to be most effective alternatives to chemical fertilizers. Data pertaining to various alternatives to present chemical farming practices revealed that organic farming, polyhouse farming and greenhouse farming were perceived to be most effective by the farmers. These alternatives shall benefit the farmers by saving them from exposure to toxic agrochemicals, help improve human health, reduce environmental pollution and regain ecological balance.

5 tables, 24 ref

015383   Signh S;Singh J;Singh P (NO, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Amritsar, Email: kvkasr@pau.edu) : Study on differential adoption and constraints of dairy farmers about scientific dairy farming practices in Amritsar district of Punjab. J Agric Ext Mgmt 2017, 18(1), 29-36.

In the study, practices adopted and constraints perceived in scientific dairy farming by KVK trained dairy farmers were compared with non-trained dairy farmers. Hundred trained and hundred non-trained dairy farmers were selected by random sampling technique from the villages of Amritsar district of Punjab. The data were collected through personal interview with the help of a structured interview schedule. The trained farmers were found to have better adoption than non-trained farmers. The respondents faced more constraints in breeding, feeding and health care. Some of the major constraints mentioned by the respondents were poor conception rate, lack of knowledge of common contagious diseases, their causes and control measures and non availability of mineral mixture in the study area. The present investigation concluded that the training programme on scientific dairy farming had a positive impact on adoption of technologies by dairy farmers despite many constraints.

4 tables, 14 ref

015382   Shyamrao I D;Hari Chand;Anil Kumar;Ramesh K C (Entomology Dep, Sugar Research Institute, Rajendra Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur-848 125, Email: harichandento@gmail.com) : Population dynamics and seasonal incidence of Chilo infuscatellus Snellen on sugarcane. J ent Res 2016, 40(2), 129-32.

The shoot borer was first noticed in the field from 1st fortnight of March and continued to 2nd fortnight of August. There was steady increase in the population of larvae during two months (April and May) after which it gradually decreased. The relationship between population of insect and weather parameters - 321 - showed significant positive correlation with maximum temperature i.e., with increase in temperature population of insect also increased. The maximum incidence (9.32%) was recorded in the first fortnight of May and lowest (1.2%) in the second fortnight of August. The relative humidity and rainfall showed negative relationship with borer population.

2 tables, 9 ref

015381   Shivran A C;Jat N L;Singh D;Sastry E V D; Rajput S S (All India Coordinated Research Project on Spices, SKN College of Agri, SKN Agriculture University, Jobner-303 329, Email: acs_shivran@rediffmail.com) : Response of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum L.) to plant growth regulators and their time of application. J Spices aromatic Crop 2016, 25(2), 169-74.

Effect of plant growth regulators and their time of application on growth, yield and economics of fenugreek were studied during three winter seasons (Rabi) of 2005-06 to 2007-08. Plant growth regulators used were Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) 50 ppm. Triacontanol 1000 ppm & Triacontanol 500 ppm with three times of spray viz., one (40 DAS), two (40 & 60 DAS) and three (40, 60 & 80 DAS) along with absolute control laid out in factorial randomized block design replicated thrice. Based on three years study it was observed that growth regulator treatments significantly influenced growth, yield attributes, yield & economics of fenugreek. The highest pods plant^{-1, test weight, seed yield (1494 kg ha-1), straw yield (3381 kg ha-1, gross returns (Rs. 51582 ha-1), net returns (Rs. 35586 ha-1) and benefit; cost ratio (2.25) were recorded with NAA 50 ppm which was significantly superior to Triacontanol 1000 ppm & 500 ppm & water spray. The seed yield was increased by 27.80%, 23.70% & 16.08% and net returns by 44.20%, 36.71% & 25.25% with application of NAA 50 ppm, Triacontanol 1000 ppm & 500 ppm over spray of water, respectively. Further, significantly maximum number of branches plant-1, test weight, seed yield (1409 kg ha-1, gross returns (Rs. 48546 ha-1), net returns (Rs. 32331 ha-1) and benefit : cost ratio (1.99) were recorded with three sprays at 40, 60 & 80 DAS closely followed by two sprays at 40 & 60 DAS over single spray at 40 DAS. Hence, the application of NAA 50 ppm twice at 40 & 60 DAS or thrice at 40, 60 & 80 DAS was found beneficial in terms of increased growth, yield and monetary returns of fenugreek.}

2 tables, 18 ref

015380   Shivran A C;Jat N L;Singh D;Rajput S S;Mittal G K (NO, S.K.N. College of Agriculture (SKRAU), Jobner-303 239, Email: acs_shivaran@rediffmail.com) : Effect of integrated nutrient management on productivity and economics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graceum). Legume Res 2016, 39(2), 279-83.

A field experiment was conducted during the winter seasons of 2007-08 to 2009-10 at Jobner, India on loamy sand soil to evaluate the effect of integrated nutrient management on growth, productivity and economics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum). The experiment consisted of fourteen combinations of integrated nutrient management practices for application of recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) to fenugreek i.e., 40 kg/ha, through different sources, viz., control, inorganic or organic [farmyard manure (FYM), poultry manure (PM), vermicompost (VC) and neem cake (NC)] alone or - 320 - in combinations was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. Based on three years of study the results revealed that application of all nutrient management treatments through organic and inorganic sources alone or in combination brought significant effect on growth, yield and economics of fenugreek. Further the results revealed that integration of 50% RDN through vermicompost (VC) + 50% RDN through inorganic source to fenugreek recorded higher plant height, branches/plant, pods/plant, seeds/pod, test weight, seed yield (1781 kg/ha), stover yield (3392 kg/ha), biological yield (5173 kg/ha) and net returns (Rs. 52151/ha). However, maximum benefit cost ratio was fetched with application of 100% RDN through inorganic source.

2 tables, 13 ref

015379   Shinde M S;Sabalpara A N;Deshmukh A J (Plant Pathology Dep, N.M. College of Agriculture, Navsari Agricultural Univ, Navsari-396 450, Email: manisha5476@gmail.com) : Mass multiplication and shelf-life study of liquid formulation of Pseudomonas spp. & their effect on PGPR activity and blast disease of finger millet. Green Fmg 0000, 8(1), 214-17.

Studies were carried out to evaluate mass multiplication, shelf-life and Plant growth promoting characteristic with the formulation of Pseudomonas sp. stored at 25±20C over a storage period of seven days in a natural source (Coconut water). Coconut fruit a natural formulation was made and found that the population of Pseudomonas sp. was increased significantly, maximum population of Pseudomonas sp. was recorded when 3 ml suspension of Pseudomonas sp. was injected into intact coconut fruit (2.98 x 10^{10 cfu/ml). In shelf-life study, the population of Pseudomonas sp. was increase on first day (2.22 x 1010 cfu/ml) of inoculation and reached it's highest. Then after, it was observed to decrease upto 7th days (2.2 x 108 cfu/ml). Thus the prepared natural formulation can be stored for 7 days. The proposed protocol of coconut water formulation suggested is absolutely cost effective and easy to prepared at small scale level. In PGPR activity of finger millet, maximum germination (93.67%), root (8.60 cm) and shoot (5.50 cm) length and root bacterization (5.33 x 104 cfu/g) was recorded in intact coconut water formulation Pseudomonas sp. There was significantly lower leaf blast intensity was recorded in coconut water intact formulation of Pseudomonas sp. (6.79 PDI).}

6 tables, 14 ref

015378   Sheoran R S;Satpal;Joshi U N;Duhan B S;Arya S (Forage Section, Genetics & Plant Breeding Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: satpal.fpj@gmail.com) : Response of forage pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) genotypes to different nitrogen levels. Forage Res 2016, 42(2), 115-18.

A field experiment was conducted at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (Haryana) during rainy season (kharif) of 2015 to study the effect of different nitrogen levels on the yield and quality of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) genotypes. Four - 319 - pearl millet genotypes viz., Raj Bajra Chari-2, AVKB-19, DFMH-30 and Giant Bajra were tested for their response at 0, 30, 60 and 90 kg N/ha. Among genotypes, Giant Bajra (Check) proved significantly superior than remaining genotypes for green fodder as well as dry matter yield. Genotype AVKB-19 recorded highest crude protein content (10.2%) followed by DFMH-30 (10.1%). The increasing levels of nitrogen from 0 to 90 kg/ha significantly increased the green fodder and dry matter yield over their lower levels. Application of 90 kg N/ha brought out an increase of 44.3, 29.7 and 7.0 per cent in green fodder and 54.0, 18.2 and 3.7 per cent in dry matter over 0, 30 and 60 kg N/ha, respectively. Among genotypes, maximum gross returns (Rs. 41986/ha), net returns (Rs. 27407/ha) and B : C ratio (2.88) were fetched in Giant Bajra closely followed by DFMH-30. Among different nitrogen levels, maximum gross returns (Rs. 36253/ha), net returns (Rs. 21,135/ha) and B : C ratio (2.40) were fetched with the application of 90 kg N/ha.

2 tables, 10 ref

015377   Sharma S K;Naidu A K;Mishra S P (Crop Sciences Dep, M.G.C. Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya, Chitrakoot, Satna-485 780, Email: santks05@gmail.com) : Effect of different levels of nitrogen and sulphur on growth, yield and storage of onion (Allium cepa L.) in black soils. Green Fmg 2017, 8(1), 151-5.

The present investigation resulted that the application of Nitrogen 140 kg N ha^{-1 enhanced growth and yield parameters of onion variety viz., Agrifound Light Red as compared to control. It was also reported that the combine application of nitrogen and sulphur at different levels as N₄S₂ (140 kg N ha-1 + 30 kg S ha-1) were exhibited maximum growth and yield parameters except for neck thickness of bulb and storage losses, which recorded minimum in treatment N0S0 (control). It is revealed on the study of production economics of onion that significantly maximum bulb yield of 322.71q ha-1 was obtained in onion variety Agrifound Light Red. The highest net return of Rs. 2,60,962 ha-1 with benefit cost ratio 5.50 was obtained in treatment T₁₉ N_{4 S2 (140 kg N ha-1} + 30 kg S ha-1).}

3 tables, 27 ref

015376   Sharma P;Punia M S;Kamboj M C (Genetics & Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: sharmapreeti.genetics@gmail.com) : Association analysis of yield and quality attributes in maize. Forage Res 2016, 42(3), 204-7.

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the relationship among 17 quantitative traits. The 63 single - 318 - cross hybrids developed from crossing nine productive maize inbred lines with seven quality protein maize inbred lines in line x tester mating design along with their parents and standard checks were evaluated through correlation studies at experimental area of CCS Haryana Agricultural University Regional Research Station, Uchani, Karnal during 2013-14. Correlation is important in estimating the relative importance of various characters on grain yield. From the association analysis, it was found that grain yield per plant showed significant positive correlation with days to 50 per cent tesselling, days to 50 per cent silking, days to maturity, plant height, ear height, cob length, cob diameter, number of grains per cob, 100-grain weight, shelling percentage and lysine content, whereas it was found significant negative with protein content and starch content. Among yield and quality characters, grain yield per plant had significant negative correlation with protein content and starch content. Protein content had significant negative correlation with tryptophan content and tryptophan was significantly positively correlated with lysine content. While oil content and lysine content exhibited positive and significant association with grain yield per plant but with tryptophan content, grain yield per plant showed positive but non-significant association. Strong positive and significant association was established between lysine content and tryptophan content. Hence, days to 50 per cent tesselling, days to 50 per cent silking, days to maturity, plant height, ear height, cob length, cob diameter, number of grains per cob, 100-grain weight, shelling percentage, oil content and lysine content, tryptophan content should be given more importance while formulating selection indices for grain yield improvement in maize.

^ssc1 table, 18 ref

015375   Sharma M;Sridevi O (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Dharwad-580 005, Email: manishsharma@usad.in) : Combining ability analysis in chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Green Fmg 2017, 8(1), 52-5.

The present investigation was undertaken to have an idea of the nature of gene action for dry fruit yield and related traits and to evaluate the most promising crosses obtained by hybridizing eight parents of the Capsicum annuum species. Eight parents were crossed in half diallel manner to generate 28 hybrids which then were analyzed along with parents in a Randomized block design with three replicates. The data were submitted to analysis of variance at 5% and 1% probability. The variation among the hybrids was further partitioned into genetic components attributed to general combining ability (GCA) variances and specific combining ability (SCA) variances and effects were analyzed by adopting Model-I, Method-2, since the present study includes parents and F₁s (without reciprocals). Both additive and non-additive effects influenced the hybrid's performance, as indicated by the GCA/SCA ratio. The non-additive effects, epistasis and/or dominance, played a more important role than the additive effects in plant height, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, number of fruits per plant, seed weight and dry fruit yield per plant and hence for such characters development of hybrids is the best strategy.

5 tables, 11 ref

015374   Sharma H K;Bakshi N;Thakur R K;Manju Devi (Entomology Dep, Dr Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan-173 230, Email: harishkulu@yahoo.co.in) : Diversity and density of insect pollinators on sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) temperate region of Kullu valley of Himachal Pradesh. J ent Res 2016, 40(2), 123-8.

A total number of 20 insects belonging to 18 genera under 10 families and 5 orders were recorded from cherry bloom. Among all insects, Apis mellifera, A. cerana and Episyrphus balteatus were most frequent visitors. Other insect visitors trapped in florescent traps were 0.83/trap in the orchard. A. mellifera showed decreasing trend in its activity from 25 m to 100 m distance from the point of placement as no such trend was, observed in other insect groups indicating the impact of introduction of A. mellifera colonies in to cherry orchard. A. cerana population was good on cherry flowers and played important role in pollination in temperate areas lime Katrain, Kullu. All insect groups (except wild bees) observed by scan sampling and sweep net method peaked their activity at 1200 h. All the three sampling methods were effective in recording insect pollinators diversity.

6 tables, 17 ref

015373   Shanti M;Susheela R;Umakanth A V;Anuradha M; Shashikala T (AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, ARI, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Email: shantigoka@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of sweet sorghum genotypes for fodder yield and quality under different levels on NPK. Forage Res 2017, 42(4), 238-42.

Sweet sorghums are high energy crops with better growth and yield than fodder sorghums and corn. These are more palatable owing to their sweetness and highly preferred by livestock. Besides, bio-fuel generation these are gaining popularity as fodder crops. Four states released genotypes of sweet sorghum were tested at different levels of nitrogen for green fodder yield and fodder quality. SSV84, CSV19SS, CSV24SS and CSH22SS were grown during kharif 2013 and 2014. The study revealed that CSV19SS performed better than all genotypes tested in terms of green fodder yield at 50 per cent flowering as well as at physiological maturity yielding 41.5 and 44.36 t/ha, respectively. At flowering, the yield responses were only up to 100 kg N/ha. The fodder crude protein per cent was higher at flowering stage (10.05%) compared to physiological maturity (7.96%), while fibre followed a reverse trend. At physiological maturity, the response was 130 kg GFY per kg of N applied at N2, while it was 85 kg per kg N at N3 at maturity. This indicated more N - 317 - use efficiency at lower N levels and viceversa. Crude protein also increased significantly from 100 to 120 kg N/ha. Among all genotypes tested, CSV19SS proved superior in terms of fodder yield and quality and hence could be utilized as ideal fodder.

5 tables, 21 ref

015372   Sewak N (Zoology Dep, School of Entomology, St. John's College, Agra-282 002, Email: nishisewak@gmail.com) : Seasonal incidence of whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Aleyrodidae: Hemiptera) on different genotypes of okra, correlated with ecological parameters. J ent Res 0000, 40(3), 255-9.

Studies revealed that the incidence of the whitefly started in the third week of February and persisted throughout the season, on all the varieties. The varieties Arka Abhay (V1) and VRO-5 (V4), showed minimum build-up of whitefly population. The incidence started from the second and fourth week of March and, reached its peak in the second and first week of April and continued to decline till the maturation of the crop on the varieties, Akra Abhay (V1) and VRO-5 (V4) respectively. The pest incidence was found to be maximum, when maximum and minimum temperature ranged from 41.10 to 20.70°C and 40.50 to 18.30°C and relative humidity ranged from 61 to 15% and 57 to 14% on the varieties, Akra Abhay (V1) and VRO-5 (V4) respectively. Positive and significant correlation with maximum temperature and negative and significant correlation with maximum relative humidity was observed with whitefly population on both the varieties.

4 tables, 9 ref

015371   Saxena S N;Saxena P;Rathore S S;Sharma L K; Saxena R;Barnwal P (NO, ICAR-National Research Centre on Seed Spices, Tabiji, Ajmer-305 206, Email: shail.nrcss@gmail.com) : Effect of cryogenic grinding on phenolic compounds and antioxidant properties of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) seed extract. J Spices aromatic Crop 2016, 25(1), 73-8.

Effect of cryogenic grinding on oil content, total phenolics, flavonoid content and anti-oxidant properties of seed extract of three fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) genotypes AM 1, RMt 1 and RMt 305 have been analyzed. Oil content was 37.36% more in cryogenically ground sample of genotype AM 1. Yield of methanol crude seed extract was 76.75% more in cryo ground sample of genotype AM 1. Total phenolic content (TPC) was also high in cryo ground samples of all three genotypes. It ranged from a minimum of 75.72 mg in RMt 1 to a maximum of 94.03 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) g^{-1 crude seed extract - 316 - in genotype AM 1. Similarly total flavanoid content (TFC) was also increased in all cryogenically ground samples and ranged from 17.75 mg in RMt 305 to 26.37 mg quercetin equivalents g-1 crude seed extract in genotype AM 1. Methanol crude seed extract of all genotypes were evaluated for its antioxidant activity in terms of total antioxidant contetn (AOC), 1, 1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazin (DPPH) free radical scavenging % and EC₅₀ value. The amount of total antioxidant content in cryo ground seeds was significantly high in all genotypes ranging from 9.32 mg in genotype RMt 1 to 11.08 mg butyl hydroxyl toluene (BHT) Equivalent g<^<-1 crude seed extract in RMt 305. DPPH scavenging % was invariably more in cryo ground seeds in all three genotypes. Higher concentration of antioxidant content and DPPH scavenging % suggested high antioxidant activity in cryo ground samples.}

3 tables, 17 ref

015370   Saxena S N;Rathore S S;Maheshwari G;Saxena R; Sharma L K;Ranjan J K (NO, ICAR-National Research Centre on Seed Spices, Tabijii, Ajmer-305 206, Email: shail.nrcss@gmail.com) : Analysis of medicianally important compounds and anti-oxidant activity in solvent extracts of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) plant parts. J Spices aromatic Crop 2016, 25(1), 65-9.

Total phenolic, flavonoid content and antioxidant activity of crude extract of seeds, roots, stem and leaves of coriander plant were determined. Maximum phenolic content content (62.6 and 50.141 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) g^{-1 extract) was observed in distilled water extract of fresh and dried roots followed by methanol extract (49.53 and 47.32 mg in green and dried stem respectively). Ethyl acetate extract showed more phenolics in dried stem (12.734 mg GAE g-1 extract) and leaves (8.62 mg GAE g-1 extract) as compared to green stem and leaves (1.808 and 5.433 mg, respectively). Distribution of flavonoids content in different green as well as dried plant parts and different solvents showed less variation in phenolic and flavonoid contents which ranged from a maximum of 9.843 mg quercetin equivalents (QE) g-1 extract in green seeds to a minimum of 4.40 mg in green stem. 1, 1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazin scavenging as a measure of antioxidant capacity was more in distilled water extract of green stem (94.49%) followed by methanol crude extract (76.256%) and ethyl acetate extract (59.706%).}

2 tables, 6 ref

015369   Satpal;Duhan B S;Arya S;Pummy Kumari;Devi S (Genetics & Plant Breeding Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: satpal.fpj@gmail.com) : Performance of single cut forage sorghum genotypes to different fertility levels. Forage Res 2016, 42(3), 184-8.

The study was undertaken to find out the performance of different single - 315 - cut forage sorghum genotypes under different fertility levels. The field experiment was conducted at Forage Section Research Farm, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (Haryana), India during Kharif season, 2015. Genotypes SPH 1752, CSH 13 and HJ 541 were sown at 50%, 75%, 100% and 125% of RDF, where RDF was 80 kg N, 40 kg P₂O₅ and 40 kg K2O /ha. Significantly highest green fodder yield was recorded in HJ 541 (493.8 q/ha) and dry matter in SPH 1752 (115.2 q/ha) as compared to CSH 13 genotype. The maximum net returns (26262.4) and B:C ratio (1.74) was observed in genotype HJ 541. On comparison with different fertility levels, highest green fodder (516.37 q/ha) and dry matter (125.08 q/ha) were recorded under 125% RDF. The maximum net returns (Rs. 28095.9 q/ha) and B:C ratio (1.78) were observed with the application of 100% RDF followed by 125%, RDF 75% RDF. Conclusively, the genotypes, HJ 541 and SPH 1752 performed better and the application of RDF was the most suitable and economical fertilization practice.

3 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

015368   Sathya S;Lakshmi S;Nakkeeran S (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ Coimbatore, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: sathya.agri03@gmail.com) : Biopriming and polymer coating for healthy seedling production under hydroponic condition in chilli cv. K 2. Green Fmg 2017, 8(1), 222-6.

The aim of the present investigation was to analyze the effect of biocontrol agents and polymer coating under hydroponic culture. The longest root length (15.2 cm), shoot length (23.5 cm), more number of leaves (17 nos.), secondary (55 nos.), tertiary roots (38 nos.) and chlorophyll index (27.9) with better seedling quality attributes were observed in biopriming with 6 per cent Bacillus amyloliquefaciens + polymer coating compared to other biopriming, dry seed treatment and control. These results were also confirmed by serial dilution technique using seed and wash root tip of the treated with seedlings, higher bacterial population of 25 x 108 cfu ml-1 and 37.7 x104 cfu g-1 respectively. Better result was also observed in biopriming with 8 per cent P. fluorescens + polymer coating compared to other treatments.

3 illus, 6 tables, 25 ref