P- ISSN: 0976-1675
E- ISSN: 2249-4538

© CARAS (Centre for Advanced Research in Agricultural Sciences)
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Volume - 16 - March-April 2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 119–123
Shabir Mir*1
1 Division of Animal Genetics and Breeding, FVSc & AH Shuhama, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Srinagar - 190 006, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
High prolificacy in sheep has been observed across different breeds and even within the same breed. Genetic conclusions have proven that in some situations ovulation rates and litter size can be genetically determined by the action of single gene(s) called Fec genes with major influences. Identification and exploitation of these genes by introgression in sheep can channel the current gap between demand and supply of meat to certain magnitude. Three major fecundity genes identified in sheep are FecB, GDF9, and BMP15. BMP15 gene is located on X chromosome and involves two exons. SNPs at diverse positions have been identified in this gene. To screen for these point mutations and detect any other mutation(s) in the mutational hotspot section of this gene, current study was carried out on Corriedale and Local Kashmir valley sheep. Polymerase Chain Reaction analysis was carried out in all the samples and two labelled alleles (A and B) were documented by the sequence analysis and there was no individual homozygous for A or B allele. The sequence similarity of nucleotide and predicted amino acid sequences of designated alleles was also achieved. These sequences were then subjected to multiple alignments with the reported sequences of different species. These point mutations lead to change in the amino acid sequences of the resulting protein, potentially impacting its structure and function and could affect the population at large. These also highlights the evolutionary implications as polymorphic genes may provide adaptive advantages to the population under study contributing its variability in traits that influence survival.

Research Article | Published online : 03-Mar-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 124–127
Sathish Kumar M*1, Jayapriya N2 and Anila P3
1-3 Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Ananad Nagar krishnanakoil Via srivilliputhur Virudhunagar - 0626 126, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Sericulture is an Agroindustry it is considered as a growing agriculture enterprise. The present study mainly focuses on the sericulture silkworm rearing practices, requirements and its profit. Certain requirements like feeding mulberry leaves for silkworm during the rearing process. The quality is based on the age and probability of worm’s intake. The feeding time should be followed consistently the more appropriate. According to the financial analysis, as per the benefit cost ratio it is greater than 1 i.e., Sericulture considered as profitable. The market price is decided by quality of cocoon. The quality of cocoon based on hardness, width and brightness of cocoon.

Research Article | Published online : 08-Mar-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 128–133
Jeetendra Verma*1, Dinesh Mani2, Vipin Sahu1, Himanchal Vishwakarma1, Manoj Kumar1, Rupesh Kumar Ojha1 and Suraj Patel1
1-2 Sheila Dhar Institute of Soil Science (SDISS), Department of Chemistry, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj - 211 002, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
The pot experiment was carried out to investigate the phytoremediation potential of Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflora L.) in contaminated soils with cadmium and lead by using EDTA. The EDTA was applied @ 0, 3 and 6 mmol kg-1 with Cd applied @ 0, 40 and 80 mg kg -1 and Pb @ 0, 40 and 80 mg kg-1. The results demonstrated that the applied EDTA (6 mmol kg-1) significantly decreased the dry biomass yield and plant height of corm, stem and flower i.e. Cd (5.38±0.08, 2.48±0.04 and 1.13±0.03 g pot-1 and 49.02±1.67 cm) and Pb (7.86±0.19, 3.24±0.11 and 1.26±0.16 g pot-1 and 53.18±1.36 cm) respectively, when compared the control pot to (T6) 40 mg kg-1 Cd and Pb contaminated soil. The applied EDTA (6 mmol kg-1) significantly increased the uptake by corm, stem and flower of Gladiolus plants i.e. Cd (25.66±0.63, 15.89±0.29 and 9.96±0.24 mg kg -1) and Pb (26.37±1.43, 16.79±0.83 and 10.09±0.27 mg kg -1) respectively, with comparison to the control pot (T9) 80 mg/kg Cd and Pb contaminated soil. When EDTA applied, then the highest TF, BCF and RF values were recorded i.e. Cd (1.357±0.027, 0.0357±0.028 mg kg-1 and 0.209±0.017%) and Pb (1.222±0.012, 0.379±0.027 mg kg-1 and 0.245±0.018%) in that order. The application of EDTA in Cd and Pb polluted soils considerably enhanced the uptake of these metals (Cadmium and Lead) though, reduced the growth and dry biomass yield of Gladiolus. Thus, it may be accomplished that EDTA played a considerable role in removing of cadmium and lead through Gladiolus plants.

Research Article | Published online : 10-Mar-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 134–137
Pooja Tamta1 and Babita Patni*2
1-2 High Altitude Plant Physiology Research Centre, H. N. B. Garhwal University, Srinagar Garhwal - 246 174, Uttarakhand, India
Abstract
The synthesis of nanoparticles using plant-based materials has emerged as a revolutionary approach in modern medicine, addressing limitations associated with traditional chemical synthesis methods. This review highlights the principles and methodologies of green synthesis, focusing on its eco-friendly, biocompatible, and cost-effective nature. Plant-mediated nanoparticles exhibit unique properties, including functionalization capabilities, which make them ideal candidates for applications such as targeted drug delivery, antimicrobial therapies, and theranostics. Furthermore, this paper explores the potential of phytopharmaceuticals derived from plant sources to bridge the gap between traditional medicine and modern pharmaceutical standards, ensuring safety, efficacy, and regulatory compliance. By integrating traditional medicinal knowledge with advanced nanotechnology, this approach promises sustainable solutions to complex biomedical challenges. The review consolidates recent advancements and case studies, providing insights into the transformative potential of green synthesis in healthcare and biotechnology.

Research Review | Published online : 12-Mar-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 138–142
Vishalakshi G. Hanamanal*1, Sharon C. L2, Seeja Thomachan Panjikkaran3, Suman K. T4, Lakshmi P. S5, Aneena E. R6 and Jyothi Bhaskar7
1-6 Department of Community Science, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur- 680 656, Kerala, India 7 Fruits Crops Research Station, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India
Abstract
Fruits and vegetables are fundamental components of a healthy diet, offering essential nutrients that promote overall health and wellbeing. Among the diverse range of fruits cultivated in India, canistel (Pouteria campechiana) is noteworthy for its medicinal properties and nutritional value. This study aims to assess the physico-chemical properties and nutritional composition of canistel fruit, commonly known as "egg fruit," which belongs to the Sapotaceae family. The fruit is characterized by its high carbohydrate content, vitamins, antioxidants, and potential therapeutic benefits, including support for cardiovascular health, immunity enhancement, and prevention of conditions such as diabetes and cataracts. The canistel fruit pulp was standardized and examined for a range of parameters, such as acidity, pH, total soluble solids (TSS), reducing sugars, total sugars, carbohydrates, protein, fat, energy, fibre, and vitamin C. The results indicated that Canistel fruit contains 41.44 grams per 100 gram of carbohydrates, 1.02 grams of 100 gram of protein, 4.00 grams of 100 gram of fat, 205.68 Kcal of energy, and 5.60 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams. These findings underscore the fruit’s potential as a nutrient dense, locally cultivated, and economically viable addition to a balanced diet for consumption. Its rich nutrient composition, coupled with its adaptability and potential therapeutic effects, positions canistel as an important fruit in global health and nutrition discussions.

Research Article | Published online : 14-Mar-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 150–155
H. D. Bhartiya*1
1 Mycopathology Lab, Department of Botany, Bipin Bihari P. G. College, Jhansi - 284 001, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
Three novel species of hyphomycte genus Ceracospora, viz., C. holopteleae-integrifoliae, C. naraingarhensis and C. pithocoelobiicola occurring on the Holoptelea integrifolia (Ulmaceae), Lagerstroemia speciosa (Lathyraceae) and Pithocoelobium dulci (Mimosaceae) are described, illustrated and compared with its allied taxa. Amongst three species, two former were collected from Gorakhpur and rest one from Kathmandu Velley Nepal respectively. These specimens have been collected during the periodic survey of fungi in the years 2021-2022. Research into the genus Cercospora on these hosts has historically been under presented in term of species diversity due to dependence differentiation on morphological characteristics, symptomology and host associations. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify the predominant species of Cercospora associated with the late cycle disease complex in aforesaid hosts. This morphological and taxonomical study proof the pathogenicity of Cercospora species. However, further molecular studies are required to identify and establish novel Cercospora species.

Research Article | Published online : 17-Mar-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 156–158
Aqsa1, Hemraj Meena*2, Supriya Majumder3 and Dharmendra Kumar4
1-3 School of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, RIMT University, Mandi Gobindgarh-FGS - 147 301 Punjab, India 4 Institute of Agriculture Sciences, SAGE University, Indore - 452 020, Madhya Pradesh, India
Abstract
The field experiment was conducted at Agriculture Research Farm, RIMT University, Mandi Gobindgarh (Punjab) during the rabi season of 2023-24 to study the “Influence of nitrogen and phosphorus application on crop productivity and profitability of Gobhi sarson (Brassica napus L.)”. The experiment consisted of nine treatments combination with nitrogen and phosphorus levels. The experiment comprised of three level of nitrogen viz., (75 kg, 100 kg and 125 kg N/ha) and three levels of phosphorus viz., (20 kg, 30 kg and 40 kg P2O5/ha) were tested in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. Observation concerning growth parameters, yield attributes and seed yield of Gobhi sarson was recorded. The application of 125 kg/ha N + 40 kg/ha P2O5 treatment had the highest values for growth characteristics like plant population, plant height, number of branches/plants, chlorophyll content, yield characteristics like number of siliqua/plants, number of seed/siliqua, siliqua length (cm), test weight, grain yield, straw yield and also economically viable like net return and B:C ratio over rest of the treatments.

Research Article | Published online : 18-Mar-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 159–168
Rajib Jana*1 and Anil Kumar Sinha2
1-2 Department of Geography, Rajeev Gandhi Government P. G. College Ambikapur, District Surguja - 497 001 Chhattisgarh, India
Abstract
Agricultural regionalization is the process of dividing the earth’s surface into areas with distinct agricultural characteristics. These regions are dynamic and change over time and space. Agricultural regionalization also refers to the process of dividing a larger geographical area into smaller regions based on their agricultural characteristics such as climatic condition, soil type, topography and cropping patterns etc. The study area is situated in north-eastern corner of Chhattisgarh state which is basically tribal’s populated areas. This research paper has been based on both the primary and secondary data. The main objectives of the present study are to analyze the agricultural regionalization of Jashpur district which is based on the cropping patterns, crop combination, crop diversification, cropping intensity, agricultural productivity and patterns of crop rotation. The main findings of this investigation is agricultural regionalization can help to reduce regional disparities and inequalities, formulate agricultural plans, assess the yield potential of different crops, determine the suitability of different crops for land use, and disseminate research results and agro-technology.

Research Article | Published online : 21-Mar-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 169–173
Annamala Debbarma1, Swapna Debbarma2 and Nerisha Debbarma3
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Kokborok, Swami Vivekananda Mahavidyalaya, Mohanpur - 799 210, Agartala, Tripura, India 2 Assistant Professor, Department of Kokborok, Government Degree College Teliamura, Khowai - 799 205, Tripura, India 3 Kokborok Traslator, Department of Information and Cultural Affairs, Agartala, Tripura, India
Abstract
Kokborok, the language of the Tiprasa people of Tripura, is essential for creating their cultural identity, building communal togetherness, and maintaining Tiprasa customs. It serves as a vital link between generations, with oral traditions and modern modifications ensuring continuity and a sense of belonging. As the Tiprasa community faces modern obstacles like migration, urbanization, and the dominance of other regional languages, Kokborok continues to play an important role in preserving cultural legacy and tribal cohesion. In the backdrop of globalization, Kokborok has both possibilities and challenges. While digital media and technology provide opportunities for the language's revitalization, the movement of younger generations to metropolitan areas, as well as the presence of dominant languages, has raised worries about its survival. The language remains an important component of festivals, rituals, and social activities, preserving its place in daily life. However, its future is dependent on successful preservation measures, such as education and governmental support, as well as its capacity to adapt to modern social and technical environments. This book investigates Kokborok's influence on identity, its function in societal unity, and the contemporary issues it confronts. It also looks at how the language is adapting to digital platforms and what actions are being taken to guarantee its long-term viability in an increasingly globalized environment.

General Article | Published online : 01-Apr-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 174–179
Sreedhar B. K*1, Thumar R. K2, Sisodiya D. B3 and Naziya P. Pathan4
1, 3 Department of Agricultural Entomology, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand - 388 110, Gujarat, India 2 Department of Nematology, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand - 388 110, Gujarat, India 4 Department of Plant Protection, College of Horticulture, S. D. Agricultural University, Jagudan - 384 460, Mehsana, Gujarat, India
Abstract
In order to study the bio-efficacy of different ready-mix insecticides against insect pests in black gram, a field experiment was carried out on variety, T-9 during Kharif, 2019 and 2020 at Agronomy farm, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural university, Anand, Gujarat, India. The field trail was conducted in a completely Randomized Block Design (RBD) keeping three replications for each treatment. Among the evaluated eight ready-mix insecticides viz., flubendiamide 4% + buprofezin 20% SC, chlorantraniliprole 8.8% + thiamethoxam 17.5% SC and profenofos 40% + cypermethrin 4% EC proved effective against Bihar hairy caterpillar (Spilosoma obliqua). The treatments chlorantraniliprole 8.8% + thiamethoxam 17.5% SC, thiamethoxam 12.6% + lambda-cyhalothrin 9.5% ZC and flubendiamide 4% + buprofezin 20% SC proved effective against leaf eating caterpillar (Spodoptera litura). The plots treated with thiamethoxam 12.6% + lambda cyhalothrin 9.5% ZC, chlorantraniliprole 8.8% + thiamethoxam 17.5% SC and flubendiamide 4% + buprofezin 20% SC proved effective against spotted pod borer (Maruca vitrata) in black gram.

Research Article | Published online : 02-Apr-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 180–185
Ankit Kumar1, T. Gohain2 and Khrawbor Dkhar*3
1-3 Department of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, Campus: Medziphema, Nagaland - 797 106, India
Abstract
A study was conducted during the kharif season of 2023 at the School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University (NU: SAS) to evaluate the performance and variability for growth and yield contributing characters of cluster bean against different dates of sowing and variety under the rainfed conditions. The experiment was conducted in Split Plot Design (SPD) with three replications. The treatment combination consisted of three dates of sowing (1st June, 1st July and 1st August) and five varieties (RGC-936, RGr-12-1, RGC-1017, RGC-1038 and RGC-1066). The results revealed that cluster bean growth and yield attributing characters were significantly affected by different dates of sowing and varieties, second date of sowing (1st July) recorded the highest growth and yield attributes at all the growth stages. Among the five varieties used, number of cluster plant-1 (17.59), number of pod cluster-1 (4.82) and pod length (7.78 cm) were higher in variety RGr-12-1. However, plant height (124.41 cm), number of green leaves plant-1 (42.05), number of pod plant¹ (99.63) and test weight (25.51 gm) were maximum with the variety RGr-12-1. The variety (RGr-12-1) recorded the highest stalk yield (2820.72 kg ha¹) and grain yield (1044.22 kg ha¹) followed by variety RGC-1066 (2651.59 kg ha-1 and 982.27 kg ha-1) respectively. After a comparative study of different sowing dates and varieties of cluster bean it was found that superior variety RGr-12-1 sown on 1st July was most suitable followed by 1st August date of sowing and variety RGC 1066 in rainfed condition of experimental site.

Research Article | Published online : 05-Apr-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 186–189
K. Swetha Reddy*1, P. K. Karthikeyan2, P. Poonkodi3 and S. Ramesh Kumar4
1-3 Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India 4 Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
A field experiment was carried out in the Sivapuri village, Chidambaram taluk, Tamil Nadu during kharif of 2024 to study the effect of polyhalite on biometric,yield parameters and yield of rice (Oryza sativa var. (ADT43) grown in alluvial soils of Tamil Nadu and included eight treatments viz., T1- Control, T2-NP + K (0), T3-NP + 50% K as MOP, T4-NP + 50% K as Polyhalite, T5-NP + 100% K as MOP, T6-NP + 100% K as Polyhalite, T7-NP + 150% K as MOP, T8-NP + 150% K as Polyhalite. The highest growth characters viz., plant height (103.1 cm), chlorophyll content (44.5 SPAD value) and dry matter production (87.5 g pot-1), yield characters viz., no. of grains panicle-1 (81.23), panicle length (28.53 cm) was obtained under T8 (NP + K 150% as Polyhalite). Further, this treatment showed an increase in grain and straw yield respectively over control.

Research Article | Published online : 08-Apr-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 190–198
Ajay Kumar1, Raj Kumar*2, Satish Manda3 and Shikha Bhukal4
1-2 Assistant Professor (Agricultural Economics), College of Horticulture, Maharana Pratap Horticultural University, Karnal - 132 001, Haryana, India 3 Assistant Professor, SCPK RRC, Maharana Pratap Horticultural University, Karnal - 132 001, Haryana, India 4 Assistant Professor, Department of Extension Education and Communication Management, CCS, Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125 004, Haryana
Abstract
Agriculture nowadays has become highly input and cost-intensive. Under the changed scenario today, forecasting of various aspects relating to agriculture are becoming more essential. However, despite a strong need for reliable and timely forecasts, the current status is far from satisfactory. The present study compares the efficacy of Multiple Linear Regression Models in quantifying the pre-harvest mustard yield in Hisar, Bhiwani, Sirsa, Fatehabad, Mahendragarh, Rewari, Jhajjar and Gurugram districts of Haryana. The objective of this study was to assess the forecast accuracy of the contending models for district-level mustard yield forecasts in Haryana. The fortnightly weather data on rainfall, minimum temperature and maximum temperature over the crop growth period (September-October to February-March) have been utilized from 1980-81 to 2010-11 for the models’ building. The weather-yield data from 2011-12 to 2015-16 have been used to check the post-sample validity of the fitted models for mustard yield forecasts in comparison to those obtained from State Department of Agriculture crop yield(s) estimates.

Research Article | Published online : 11-Apr-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 199–208
Sandeep Kumar Yadav*1 and Kamal Singh2
1-2 Department of Botany, Dharam Samaj College (Affiliated to Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar University, Agra - 282 004, Uttar Pradesh), Aligarh - 202 001, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
Chemical nematicides have negative impact on both soil and its microbes hence alternatives are required to replace them. Thus, the current study was conducted to illustrate the fly-ash's nematicidal and plant-growth-promoting abilities in eco-friendly manner. Pot experiments were performed during the period of, June 2024 to October 2024. Seeds of groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) were sown in clay pots containing fly-ash (10, 20, 30, 40 and 50%) amended soil. Plants were inoculated with Meloidogyne arenaria, identified by perineal pattern. Results revealed that application of fly-ash improved the soil physicochemical properties. It has been found that M. arenaria inoculation significantly reduced the growth, yield and pigment content of groundnut plants compared to the untreated and un-inoculated plants. Plants cultivated in 30% fly-ash (70:30 w/w soil:fly-ash) the growth and yield substances had significantly (P ≤ 0.05) improved as compared to untreated and inoculated plants. Moreover, the physiological attributes were also enhanced in 30% fly-ash amended soil. However, fly-ash amended soil not only increased growth and yield but also reduced the nematode disease on groundnut plants. Therefore, our results demonstrated that Fly ash at 30% level can be utilized to manage M. arenaria in eco-friendly manner and enhance growth, yield and resistance of plants.

Research Article | Published online : 14-Apr-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 209–212
B. Mano*1, P. Tamilchelvan2, S. Praveen Kumar3, R. Priyanka4 and R. K. Chandrakas5
1-5 Department of Agriculture Engineering, Paavai Engineering College, Pachal, Namakkal - 637 018, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
In this study, a poultry egg incubator was designed, fabricated and tested to evaluate its hatching performance. The incubator is designed to maintain the optimal temperature and humidity conditions for embryo development, and it is also equipped with an egg-turning mechanism. The temperature or humidity is either too high or too low due to poor regulation. An electrical light is utilized as a heater in this project to keep the egg production for higher rates. The temperature and humidity conditions inside the incubator were maintained within the desired ranges, and the egg-turning mechanism worked effectively. The egg fertilization is one of the major factors to be considered in the poultry farms. It is noted that the percentage of hatching in conventional method is below 70% which is much below comparing with the developed incubator. Also, the newborn chickens in conventional method are unhealthy as they don’t get a sufficient amount of heat. The developed incubator is environment friendly because it doesn’t produce any by-product that is responsible for harming the environment. The results of this study show that this artificial incubator could be a reliable and effective tool for hatching poultry eggs. The incubator is easy to use and maintain, and it is affordable for local poultry farmers. Future studies should focus on determining the conditions under which the incubator will yield the best results in terms of hatching efficiency.

Research Article | Published online : 14-Apr-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 213–221
Neeru Yadav1, Namrata2 and Arup Giri*3
1-3 Department of Zoology, Baba Mastnath University, Asthal Bohar, Rohtak - 124 001, Haryana, India
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate minerals and trace metals in milk, emphasizing health risk assessment. The milk samples were collected from buffaloes, cows and goats. The sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium contents of the milk samples ranged from 30.55–58.36 mg/100 g, 95.7–138.04 mg/100 g, 102.34–142.14 mg/100 g, and 10.34–30.35 mg/100 g, respectively. The lead (Pb), selenium, and arsenic levels were below the limit of quantification (BLQ), indicating the minimal presence of these metals. Iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) were reported in the milk samples, with Fe concentrations exceeding Cu concentrations. Noncarcinogenic risk-related parameters such as estimated daily intake (EDI) and hazard index (HI) were also analyzed. In conclusion, a region's population is not at risk of noncarcinogenic health effects from heavy metal consumption through milk intake, as the HI is < 1.

Research Article | Published online : 16-Apr-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 222–227
Mouza R. Al-Salmi*1 and Saleem K. Nadaf2
1 Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, PO Box 467, Sultanate of Oman 2 Former Advisor, Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources Center, PO Box 92; 123 SQU, Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, Sultanate of Oman
Abstract
Vegetables are essential for food and nutrition security and affordable sources of important vitamins and minerals, indicating their nutritional potential for exploitation in world agriculture. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) is an economically important vegetable crop with the potential to increase the incomes of the farmers not only in open fields but also in greenhouses in Oman as it is Okra is popular among the customers and valuable with higher retail prices than other vegetables. Hence, a survey study investigated the technical efficiency of okra-growing farms in Oman. Our research estimated and examined the technical efficiency of okra-growing farms in different governorates of Oman. A sample of 115 okra-growing farms was selected, adapting the multistage sampling method. The interview schedules were followed for data collection in 2016 and 2017. The maximum likelihood method was used, adapting the Cobb-Douglas stochastic frontier production model for the data collected. the output of the Frontier 4.1 was found to be a good fit as evidenced by significant sigma squared value (p<0.05). The results indicated that the mean technical efficiency for okra farms in Oman was estimated to be 70%, with a wide range from as low as 8% to as high as 88%. There was considerable possibility of increasing Okra output by 30% with the current level of inputs employed by Okra farmers. Among the inefficiency factors, the experience of the farmers significantly contributed to the technical efficiency of the farms. Okra-growing farms had an enormous scope to improve their efficiency and increase the productivity of Okra by following regular extension programs related to Good Agriculture Practice (GAP) involving farmers interested in the cultivation of Okra.

Research Article | Published online : 18-Apr-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 228–234
Abishek Krishnan*1, Sajitha Vijayan M1, K Karthikeyan2, Dayana David1 and Chitra Parayil1
1 College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) P. O., Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India 2 Regional Research Station, Pattambi, Mele Pattambi P. O., Palakkad - 679 306, Kerala, India
Abstract
The incidence of Brown Plant Hopper (BPH) in rice in relation to the weather variables at Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Pattambi, Kerala for a period of 27 years (1997 to 2023) was studied using regression analysis approach. Weather variables like minimum temperature (TMIN), morning relative humidity (RH I), evening relative humidity (RH II), rainfall (RF) and sunshine hours (SSH) had significant association with the count of BPH. Regression models like multiple linear regression, composite regression and multinomial logistic regression analysis were fitted using significantly correlated weather variables. Composite regression analysis with BPH count and weather variables revealed significance of weighted interaction of temperature and relative humidity. Individual and joint effect of the weather variables influencing the BPH count were determined using the multiple linear regression analysis and composite regression analysis respectively, with composite regression model providing higher model accuracy in comparison to multiple linear regression model. On the other hand, multinomial logistic regression analysis helped to determine the epidemic status of BPH at different peak periods of incidence. This epidemic status can be used as a warning alert for the farmers on the level of incidence of these pests.

Research Article | Published online : 21-Apr-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 235–238
Jaiman R. K1, Prajapati B. K*2, Pathan N. P3 and Jat R. K4
1 Department of Plant Pathology, C. P. College of Agriculture (S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar) Dantiwada - 385 505, Gujarat, India 2-3 Department of Plant Protection, College of Horticulture, S. D. Agricultural University, Jagudan - 384 460, District Mehsana, Gujarat, India 4 Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner - 303 329, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Abstract
During a three-year span, the efficacy of various treatments was assessed, including foliar sprays of neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) at 5%, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Azadirachtin. The results revealed that NSKE (T5) significantly reduced disease intensity to 30.59% and increased fruit yield to 129.00 q/ha. This treatment was comparable to Pseudomonas fluorescens (T6), which achieved a disease intensity of 34.28% and a yield of 122.56 q/ha, and Azadirachtin (T7), with a disease intensity of 29.63% and a yield of 127.18 q/ha. The economic analysis showed the highest net realization with NSKE (₹ 258,500) and the highest benefit-cost ratio (1:64.44).

Research Article | Published online : 23-Apr-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 2 ; 250–257
Jambhali Smita V.*1 and Ghayal, Nivedita A.2
1 Annasaheb Kulkarni Department of Biodiversity, M. E. S. Abasaheb Garware College, Pune - 411 004, Maharashtra, India 2 Department of Botany, M. E. S. Abasaheb Garware College, Pune - 411 004, Maharashtra, India
Abstract
Phytoremediation is an ideal method to treat domestic wastewater. In this technique, plants absorb nutrients from polluted water. Biochemical analysis was carried out to study the impact of phyto-treatment on the biochemical content of Chrysopogon zizanioides used in phytoremediation. Roots, stem and leaf samples were analyzed for moisture, total minerals, Crude fiber, Energy, Crude protein, Crude fat and carbohydrates, essential metals and non-metals along with trace elements. The study revealed no significant impact of domestic wastewater on the biochemical content of Chrysopogon zizanioides. indicating its safe economic and ecofriendly use.

Research Article | Published online : 26-Apr-2025