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

© CARAS (Centre for Advanced Research in Agricultural Sciences)
NAAS Score: 4.56

Volume - 16 - September-October 2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 427–433
Ajaz A. Shah*1
1 Department of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare, Kashmir Division, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.), a sterile triploid of the Iridaceae family, is cultivated for its high-value mauve stigmas used as spice and in various industries. Propagated through corms, saffron's quality depends on key apocarotenoids like crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal, which develop during flowering and drying. The Kashmir Valley, especially the Karewa plateau regions, provides ideal agro-climatic conditions for its growth. However, climate change, poor soil health, corm rot, and reliance on traditional practices have led to declining yields. This study presents a scientific framework for saffron cultivation in Kashmir, covering site selection, corm grading, nutrient and water management, pest/disease control, and modern post-harvest processing techniques. It highlights the role of initiatives like the National Saffron Mission and institutions such as IIKSTC in promoting sustainable practices and value addition. Emphasis is placed on controlled drying, integrated pest management, and scientific harvesting, all essential for quality and economic viability. With proper integration of tradition and innovation, Kashmir’s saffron industry holds significant potential for revival and global leadership.

Ajaz A. Shah*1 Click here to download file

Research Review | Published online : 01-Sep-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 434–437
Carmen TĂLPĂU*1
1 University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Bucharest, 59 Mărăști Blvd, District - 1, Bucharest, Romania
Abstract
This study analyzes the influence of soil erosion on the morphometric characteristics and productive potential of sunflower crop in Corni commune, Galați county. Data obtained in the non-eroded area (control) reveal an average plant height of 111.8 cm and an average calathidium size of 7.3 cm. In contrast, in the heavily eroded area, these parameters are significantly affected, with the height reduced to 76.2 cm (-31.9%) and the calathidium size decreased to 5.4 cm (-26.1%). The reduction of these essential parameters reflects a negative systemic impact on aerial biomass and inflorescence development, which directly influences seed production capacity and agricultural yield. From a physiological perspective, the reduction in plant height indicates a decrease in the active photosynthetic area and the accumulation of dry biomass, essential for supporting reproductive processes. Also, the reduction in the size of the calatidium is associated with a lower number of fertile flowers and, implicitly, seeds produced, which negatively affects the volume of production. These findings highlight the fundamental role of erosion as a limiting factor in the productivity of the sunflower crop. The study highlights the need to implement effective soil conservation measures, including conservation tillage, the use of cover crops and the correct management of land slopes, to prevent soil degradation and ensure the sustainability of sunflower agricultural production.

Carmen TĂLPĂU*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 02-Sep-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 438–446
H. R. Uma1, 3 and Jessica Fernando*2, 3
1 Research Scholar (Register No: 20113112032013) Department of Chemistry, V. O. Chidambaram College, Thoothukudi - 628 008, Tamil Nadu, India 2 Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, V. O. Chidambaram College, Thoothukudi - 628 008, Tamil Nadu, India 3 Affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Abishekapatti - 627 012, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Over the years, the continuously increasing incidence rates of cancer and infectious diseases are open threats to the sustainable survival of animals and humans. In the last two decades, the demands of nanomaterials as modern therapeutic agents have increased. In this study, green fabrication of Ag doped Y2O3 nanoparticles using aqueous extract of Clerodendrum infortunatum as bio-reductant and assesses its potential as anticancer agent. The obtained pure Y2O3 and Ag doped Y2O3 were characterized by various analytical techniques including XRD, EDS, XPS, UV-visible and PL. The Ag doped Y2O3 nanoparticles was endured defect emissions that are more intense than those of pure samples, according to the obtained PL spectra. In addition to these fascinating findings, the samples deactivate against a AGS (Human gastric adenocarcinoma) cell line through an MTT trial, which highlighted the superiority of the doped when compared to the native nanoparticles. As a consequence, the Ag doped Y2O3 nanoparticles could potentially be an effective alternative for anticancer materials, particularly in biomedical applications.

H. R. Uma1, 3 and Jessica Fernando*2, 3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 04-Sep-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 447–452
Chandrmauli Chaurasiya*1, G. P. Singh2, Surendra Kumar Gupta3 and A. Pagati Priya4
1 P. G. Scholar, Department of Agricultural Economics, IANS Deen Dayal Upadhayay Gorakhpur University Gorakhpur - 273 009, Uttar Pradesh, India 2 Assistant Professor, Department of Agricultural Economics, IANS Deen Dayal Upadhayay Gorakhpur University Gorakhpur - 273 009, Uttar Pradesh, India 3 Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, IANS Deen Dayal Upadhayay Gorakhpur University Gorakhpur - 273 009, Uttar Pradesh, India 4 P. G. Scholar, Department of Agricultural Economics, IANS Deen Dayal Upadhayay Gorakhpur University Gorakhpur - 273 009, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
The present study was conducted during 2023-24 in four banana-growing villages of Gorakhpur district, namely Ramchaura, Campiernagar, Sonaura Khurd, and Sonaura Bujurg, using a sample of 80 farmers selected through random sampling across marginal, small, medium, and large farm categories. Data were collected through pre-tested schedules and analyzed using percentage and cost–return approaches. Results indicated that the average yield per hectare was highest in large farms (197.83 qt) followed by medium (195.03 qt), small (193.85 qt), and marginal farms (184 qt). However, higher yields in large farms were offset by increased cultivation costs (Rs. 109181.17/acre) and greater dependence on hired labor, resulting in the highest cost of production per quintal (Rs. 551.89). In contrast, marginal and small farms benefitted from lower input use and family labor, achieving relatively better cost efficiency with lower production costs (Rs. 487.30 and Rs. 492.62/qt, respectively). Profitability indicators such as net returns, family labor income, and farm investment income confirmed the overall viability of banana cultivation, though the benefit–cost ratio was slightly more favorable for marginal (1:3.20) and small farms (1:3.10) compared to medium (1:2.70) and large farms (1:2.69). Despite its profitability, banana farming in Gorakhpur faces several critical constraints, the foremost being abiotic stresses such as wind and drought (93.75%), high price of planting materials (87.50%), labor scarcity (70%), and poor marketing infrastructure (67.50%). Financial constraints, including lack of credit facilities (66.25%) and inadequate insurance coverage (62.50%), alongside limited technical knowledge (45%), further restrict productivity and profitability. The study concludes that while banana farming is economically rewarding, its sustainability is undermined by systemic challenges across production, finance, and marketing. Policy interventions such as the provision of affordable disease-free planting materials, access to institutional credit and insurance, farmer training on improved production practices, and strengthening of storage and market infrastructure are imperative to enhance profitability and ensure long-term viability of banana cultivation in the region.

Chandrmauli Chaurasiya*1, G. P. Singh2, Surendra Kumar Gupta3 and A. Pagati Priya4 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 08-Sep-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 453–462
Sona Jaison*1, Rashmi C. R2, Reshmy Vijayaraghavan3, Gleena Mary C. F.4 and Seeja Thomachan Panjikkaran5
1-5 College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara - 680 656, Kerala, India
Abstract
Macrocybe gigantea (Callistosporiaceae) is a large, edible mushroom of nutritional and economic significance, valued for its protein, fibre, vitamins, polysaccharides, and essential minerals. Despite its potential for commercialization, optimized cultural conditions for its large-scale production remain under explored. In this study, a pure culture of Macrocybe gigantea isolated from Thrissur, Kerala, was molecularly characterized (GenBank accession number: PX068171) and evaluated in vitro for vegetative growth under different conditions. Among the different media tested, sorghum potato dextrose supported maximum mycelial growth in both solid and liquid forms. Sucrose proved to be the most efficient carbon source. The fungus exhibited optimum growth at 30 ± 2 °C and pH 5.0, under both dark and room light regimes. These results provide baseline information on the nutritional and environmental requirements of Macrocybe gigantea, offering a framework for its commercial cultivation and contributing to its sustainable utilization as a nutritionally rich food source.

Sona Jaison*1, Rashmi C. R2, Reshmy Vijayaraghavan3, Gleena Mary C. F.4 and Seeja Thomachan Panjikkaran5 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 10-Sep-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 463–468
M. Bhanu Soumya*1, M. Srinivasa Reddy2, K. Prabhakar3, P. V. Geetha Sireesha4 and A. Subba Rami Reddy5
1-5 Department of Agronomy, Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University, Agricultural College, Mahanandi - 518 502, Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract
The experiment was conducted with twelve treatment combinations of four irrigation levels and three varieties in a strip plot design and replicated thrice. The results indicated that foxtail millet growth parameters and yield attributes were significantly higher in four irrigations at sowing, 15 DAS, 35 DAS and 55 DAS which is on par with three irrigations at sowing, 15 DAS and 35 DAS. Grain and straw yields were also significantly higher with four irrigations at sowing, 15 DAS, 35 DAS and 55 DAS. Monetary returns like gross and net returns were also recorded higher values with four irrigations at sowing, 15 DAS, 35 DAS and 55 DAS followed by three irrigations at sowing, 15 DAS and 35 DAS. Among varieties, Renadu (SiA 3223) recorded higher grain, straw yield and monetary returns. However, four irrigations at sowing, 15 DAS, 35 DAS and 55 DAS recorded higher values of soil moisture content (%) at 0-30 cm soil depth and higher water use efficiency was recorded at one irrigation at sowing.

M. Bhanu Soumya*1, M. Srinivasa Reddy2, K. Prabhakar3, P. V. Geetha Sireesha4 and A. Subba Rami Reddy5 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 15-Sep-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 469–475
Surender Kumar Kulshrestha*1
1 Department of Economics, School of Humanities and Social Science, Vardhman Mahaveer Open University, Kota - 324 010, Rajasthan, India
Abstract
This paper analyzes the growth trends and regional variations in barley production in Rajasthan from 1980 to 2020. Using district-wise production data and the semi-log growth model, growth coefficients were estimated for different decades. The findings reveal mixed trends across districts, with several regions showing significant declines, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s, while some northern districts demonstrated positive growth in the 2000s. The study highlights the impact of irrigation practices, technological adoption, and shifting cropping patterns on barley production. The results provide insights into regional disparities and policy implications for strengthening barley cultivation in Rajasthan.

Surender Kumar Kulshrestha*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 25-Sep-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 476–480
Kalyani Atukuri*1 and Sumanth Kumar Kunda2
1-2 Department of Zoology and Aquaculture, Acharya Nagarjuna University (ANU), College of Sciences University, Guntur - 522 510, Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract
This study firmly establishes the remarkable benefits of Aqua Fortuna probiotic (AFPB), which features a blend of bacterial strains sourced from fish gut microbiota, for enhancing the physiological performance of white-leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). As the most extensively farmed crustacean worldwide, this species is crucial to India's shrimp exports, contributing over 50% of the total. However, shrimp aquaculture faces significant challenges from various microbial diseases, predominantly viral and bacterial, which lead to severe mortality rates. The frequent use of antibiotics and chemical treatments in this sector poses serious risks to both environmental health and human safety, and is often ineffective against many pathogens, particularly viruses. Therefore, adopting effective, chemical-free solutions for managing infectious diseases in aquatic farming is essential. Recent findings unequivocally demonstrate that incorporating probiotics into aquaculture practices significantly reduces the incidence of white faecal syndrome, thereby optimizing shrimp production. In fact, the use of these probiotics resulted in a marked decrease in disease intensity after just 14 days.

Kalyani Atukuri*1 and Sumanth Kumar Kunda2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 29-Sep-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 481–487
Sapana Tiwari*1, Rakshit Ameta2, Jayesh P. Bhatt3 and Suresh C. Ameta4
1 Research Scholar, Department of Chemistry, Pacific Academy of Higher Education and Research University, Udaipur - 313 024, Rajasthan, India 2 Professor, Department of Chemistry, Pacific Academy of Higher Education and Research University, Udaipur - 313 024, Rajasthan, India 3 Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Pacific Academy of Higher Education and Research University, Udaipur - 313 024, Rajasthan, India 4 Professor, Department of Chemistry, Pacific Academy of Higher Education and Research University, Udaipur - 313 024, Rajasthan, India
Abstract
Organic contaminants of different classes can be degraded and completely mineralized by titania based photocatalysis. In this study, cerium-doped microporous TiO₂ crystals containing different Ce concentrations (0.3, 0.5, 0.7, and 1.0%) were synthesized using a hydrothermal method. The resulting Ce-doped TiO₂ nanoparticles were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The degradation of dinotefuran was examined under artificial light (mercury lamp) in the laboratory. The effect of some parameters like pH, catalyst amount, concentration of pesticides and intensity of light were studied to achieve optimal conditions. It was observed that Ce doped TiO2 particles exhibited higher photocatalytic activity as compared to undoped TiO2, may be due to generation of more reactive oxidative species. The optimum conditions achieved were pH= 5.0; [Dinotefuran]= 12ppm; Ce-TiO2=0.5% (100 mg); and Light intensity= 19.5 mwcm-2. It was found that at these conditions more than 85% dinotefuran could be degraded.

Sapana Tiwari*1, Rakshit Ameta2, Jayesh P. Bhatt3 and Suresh C. Ameta4 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 02-Oct-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 488–492
Krishnendhu G.*1, Sangeetha K. S.2, P. Anitha3, Rajalekshmi K.4 and Anu Mary Markose5
1-3 Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic Crops, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India 4 Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India 5 Department of Post Harvest Technology, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India
Abstract
Spiny coriander (Eryngium foetidum L.), an emerging nutritious herbal spice, was evaluated for its response to various fertilizer doses in a field experiment conducted at Kerala Agricultural University during September 2024 to March 2025. The study assessed the effect of seven fertilizer levels on growth, yield, and biochemical properties using a randomized block design with three replications. The traits such as plant height (21.14 cm), leaf area (76.52 cm2), and green leaf yield (3346.95 g plot-1) were significantly enhanced with the application of treatment containing FYM at 5.00 t ha-1 combined with 25:10:10 kg ha-1 NPK and a 1.50% urea foliar spray (T4). Treatments incorporating vermicompost at 2.50 t ha-1 along with 25:10:10 kg ha-1 NPK and foliar sprays of 1.00% or 1.50% urea, excelled in essential oil (0.55-0.57%), total chlorophyll content (2.12 mg g-1), carotenoid content (0.74 mg g-1), and secondary metabolite production (total phenols: 13.27 mg GE g-1; flavonoids: 45.65 mg QE g-1). The absolute control consistently underperformed. These findings point out the importance of combined organic and inorganic fertilizer application in enhancing the growth, yield, and biochemical content, with T4 being optimal for biomass and T6/T7 for medicinal properties, supporting sustainable cultivation and economic potential.

Krishnendhu G.*1, Sangeetha K. S.2, P. Anitha3, Rajalekshmi K.4 and Anu Mary Markose5 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 08-Oct-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 493–497
Umme Aqusa Shaikh1 and Somanagouda I. Patil*2
1-2 Department of Agribusiness Management, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad - 580 005, Karnataka, India
Abstract
This study investigates the effectiveness of incentive-based environmental policies, specifically Savayava Bhagya (organic farming) and Raitha Siri (millet promotion), in fostering sustainable agricultural practices among farmers in Dharwad Taluk, Karnataka. The research evaluates policy awareness, participation, economic benefits, and environmental outcomes using primary data collected from 30 farmers, including both beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries. Findings reveal that while Savayava Bhagya significantly reduced cultivation costs and improved profitability, Raitha Siri lacked substantial financial incentives and was limited to subsistence cultivation. Peer networks emerged as the primary source of policy information (90%), highlighting gaps in official outreach and mass media effectiveness. Furthermore, only 33.33 percent of respondents attended formal policy training, underscoring the need for enhanced capacity-building programs. Although 73.33 percent of farmers expressed high awareness levels, 40% of them were dissatisfied with government responsiveness and subsidy adequacy. Environmental benefits were evident, with 47.36 percent acknowledging improved soil fertility, yet pest management and initial yield drops remained persistent challenges. The study concludes that policy restructuring, targeted outreach, and increased financial aid are crucial to enhance policy inclusivity and long-term sustainability. Recommendations include expanding subsidy amounts, simplifying registration processes, and strengthening extension services, especially for smallholder and less-educated farmers.

Umme Aqusa Shaikh1 and Somanagouda I. Patil*2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 10-Oct-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 498–501
Hana V. Anvar*1, Anupama T. V2, Resmi Paul1, Aswini A3 and P. Sindhumole4
1 College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara - 680 656, Kerala, India 2 Plant Propagation and Nursery Management Unit, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara - 680 656, Kerala, India 3 Cocoa Research Centre, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara - 680 656, Kerala, India 4 AICRP on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants & Betel Vine, Kerala Agricultural University Vellanikkara - 680 656, Kerala, India
Abstract
Miracle fruit (Synsepalum dulcificum), a tropical shrub known for its unique taste-modifying properties and medicinal potential, faces significant propagation challenges due to its recalcitrant seed nature. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different potting media on seed germination and seedling growth to standardize an efficient propagation medium. Five media combinations were tested viz. T₁ (control- soil)), T₂ (soil + cocopeat + FYM @ 2:1:1), T₃ (soil + cocopeat + vermicompost @1:1:1), T₄ (sawdust) and T₅ (sawdust + vermicompost @ 1:1) under a completely randomized design with three replications. Results revealed that seeds sown in T₅ significantly outperformed other treatments in terms of earliest germination (12.00 days), highest germination percentage (53.33%), seedling height (7.51 cm at 90 DAS), root length (16.66 cm), and seedling weight (0.8 g). Meanwhile, seeds sown in T₃ showed superiority in vegetative growth traits such as number of branches (3.83), number of leaves (4.17), and stem girth (0.2 cm). The positive effects of T5 and T3 are attributed to the enhanced aeration, moisture retention, and nutrient supply provided by vermicompost, cocopeat, and sawdust. These findings highlight the significance of media composition in improving germination and early seedling vigour and suggest that vermicompost-based substrates, especially when combined with sawdust or cocopeat, are ideal for seed propagation in miracle fruit.

Hana V. Anvar*1, Anupama T. V2, Resmi Paul1, Aswini A3 and P. Sindhumole4 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 13-Oct-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 502–509
Aisha Parween*1 and Vidyanath Jha2
1-2 Lalit Narayan Mithila University, Kameshwaranagar, Darbhanga - 846 004, Bihar, India
Abstract
Endophytic bacteria are microorganisms that reside within plant tissues without causing harm. These bacteria play a crucial role in enhancing plant growth and resilience under both normal and stressful conditions. They achieve this by improving nutrient uptake, modulating plant hormones, and protecting plants from pathogens and pests. Endophytic bacteria colonize the plant interior through a series of complex interactions and exhibit remarkable diversity influenced by plant species, environmental factors, and bacterial traits. Their ability to promote plant growth makes them valuable for sustainable agriculture as bio fertilizers and bio pesticides. This review explores the mechanisms of plant growth promotion, the diversity of endophytic bacteria in agriculture. Bacteria, their host specificity, and the genetic determinants involved in their interactions with plants. It also highlights the challenges and future directions for utilizing these bacteria. This also includes about wild plants as a source of various endophytic bacteria and innovative approaches moreover in this article we also discuss about gene expressed in planta and their challenges.

Aisha Parween*1 and Vidyanath Jha2 Click here to download file

Research Review | Published online : 15-Oct-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 510–514
Deepika*1, Jatesh Kathpalia2 and Rashmi Tyagi3
1 Department of Sociology, College of Basic Science and Humanities, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125 004, Haryana, India 2 Assistant Scientist, Department of Sociology, College of Basic Science and Humanities, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125 004, Haryana, India 3 Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, College of Basic Science and Humanities, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125 004, Haryana, India
Abstract
The paper examines the participation of women representatives in PRI’s in Haryana with a particular emphasis on grassroot leadership and gender dynamics. This study was framed around 2020 policy decision by Haryana government, which introduced 50 per cent reservation for women in local governance. Employing a survey-based methodology, the research assesses how increased political representatives of women has influenced women’s involvement in political activities, social activities and developmental and decision-making activities. The findings revealed that more than half of the respondents had medium level of participation (53.33%) based on the activities followed by low level (25.00%) and high level of participation (21.67%). These results provide insights into the evolving patterns of women’s engagement in PRI’s and highlight the ongoing social and institutional factors affecting their leadership roles - underlining the importance of targeted policy interventions for strengthening gender equity in rural governance.

Deepika*1, Jatesh Kathpalia2 and Rashmi Tyagi3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 17-Oct-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 515–519
Shakila Kumaravel*1
1 Assistant Professor of Chemistry, Dr. Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi Government Institute for P. G. Studies and Research, Karaikal - 609 605, Pondicherry, India
Abstract
A phytochemical investigation of the fresh flowers of Thespesia populnea was conducted. The ethyl acetate fraction yielded a flavonoid glycoside, identified as isorhamnetin 3-O-sophoroside, alongside its aglycone, isorhamnetin. The structure of the glycoside was elucidated through extensive spectroscopic analysis, including UV, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR, and confirmed by chemical hydrolysis and chromatographic (Rf) studies. The isolated glycoside was evaluated for its anti-inflammatory potential via a human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization assay against hypotonicity-induced hemolysis. It demonstrated significant, dose-dependent activity, exhibiting maximal protection at a concentration of 50 µg/mL. This is the first report on the isolation of isorhamnetin 3-O-sophoroside from Thespesia populnea flowers and its notable membrane-stabilizing properties.

Shakila Kumaravel*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 20-Oct-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 520–527
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
Synthetic nematicides have negative impact on soil flora and fauna hence alternative methods are needed to replace them. To materialize the thought, the current study was conducted to assess the vermicompost (VC) as an anti-nematode and plant-growth enhancer in eco-friendly manner. Seeds of groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) were sown in clay pots containing VC (10, 20, 30, 40 and 50%) amended soil. After seedling emergence plants were inoculated with Meloidogyne arenaria, identified by perineal pattern. Results showed that application of VC improved the soil health. It has been found that M. arenaria inoculation significantly reduced the growth, yield and photosynthetic pigments of groundnut plants compared to the untreated and un-inoculated plants. Plants cultivated in 40% VC (60:40 w/w soil:VC) the growth and yield substances had significantly (P ≤ 0.05) improved as compared to untreated and nematode inoculated plants. Moreover, the photosynthetic attributes were also enhanced in 40% VC amended soil. However, VC amended soil not only increases the growth and yield but also reduces the nematode disease on groundnut plants. Therefore, our results demonstrated that VC at 40% level can be utilized to manage M. arenaria in eco-friendly manner through improvement in growth, yield and resistance of plants. Studied growth and yield pursuits were ameliorated gradually from untreated to 40% VC amendments. Thereby improvisation in all referred as above pursuits were looking to be VC concentration dependent.

Sandeep Kumar Yadav*1 and Kamal Singh2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 22-Oct-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 528–538
Golda Sharon R. V. D.*1, Mani Chellappan1, Berin Pathrose1, Ranjith M. T.1 and Beena C.2
1 Department of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India 2 Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India
Abstract
Honey bees play a vital role in pollination, biodiversity maintenance, and agricultural productivity. In Asia, Apis cerana indica is a key pollinator with unique ecological and behavioural traits, yet its responses to novel insecticides remain underexplored. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the ecotoxicological, behavioural, biochemical, and molecular impacts of emerging insecticide classes, including neonicotinoids, sulfoximines, butenolides, diamides, and afidopyropen. Evidence highlights both acute and chronic toxicity, with sublethal effects such as impaired foraging, navigation, learning, and communication that compromise colony health and pollination efficiency. Biochemical and molecular studies reveal alterations in detoxification enzymes, oxidative stress biomarkers, and gene expression, suggesting species-specific vulnerabilities compared to Apis mellifera. Field-realistic exposures further demonstrate the persistence of risks posed by pesticide residues and synergistic interactions with pathogens, fungicides, and nutritional stressors. However, critical gaps remain in chronic toxicity data, mechanistic insights, and multi-stressor evaluations. Addressing these gaps through standardized protocols, comparative studies, and long-term monitoring will aids to improve risk assessments and to formulate effective Integrated Pest and Pollinator Management strategies. Such approaches are essential to balance agricultural productivity with pollinator conservation and ecosystem resilience.

Golda Sharon R. V. D.*1, Mani Chellappan1, Berin Pathrose1, Ranjith M. T.1 and Beena C.2 Click here to download file

Research Review | Published online : 27-Oct-2025

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 16 - Issue : 5 ; 539–542
Deepika Mujalde*1 and Devendra Patil2
1 Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University of Social Sciences, Dr. Ambedkar Nagar (Mhow) - 453 441, Madhya Pradesh, India 2 Indian Institute of Soil Science, Bhopal - 462 038, Madhya Pradesh, India
Abstract
A field experiment was conducted during (Rabi) season of 2019-20 and 2020-21 to evaluate the efficacy of pre- and post-emergence herbicides against complex weed dynamic in wheat. Twelve treatments consisted with ten herbicidal treatments, pre-emergence application of Metribuzin 750 g/ha, Oxyfluorfen 120 g/ha, Atrazin 1000 g/ha and Pendimethalin 750 g/ha post-emergence application of Metasulfuron 750 g/ha, 2,4D Amino salt 1000 g /ha, 2,4-D Ethylin ester 750 g/ha, 2,4-D (Dimethyl) 1000 g/ha, Sulfosulfuron1000 g/ha, Isoproturon 1000 g/ha, hand weeding at 30 and 60 days after sowing (DAS) and weedy check, were tested in randomized block design with three replications. Hands weeding at 30 and 60 DAS recorded significantly reduced weed density and weed dry matter at 30, 60 and 90 DAS stages with weed control efficiency of 85.24% and 85.37% at 30 DAS, respectively. However, application of Oxyfluorfen resulted in maximum grain yield of 4.39 and 4.43 t/ha, respectively in both the years compared to other herbicide applications. Thus, it may be concluded that for higher productivity and weed control, application of Oxyfluorfen 120 g/ha was found to be the best practice among the various herbicidal combinations.

Deepika Mujalde*1 and Devendra Patil2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 31-Oct-2025