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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- 17 - January - February 2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 1 ; 01–13
Ajaz A. Shah*1
1 Department of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare, Kashmir Division, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
Transfer of technology is rapidly evolving from traditional, top-down, face-to-face methods where experts directly instruct farmers toward integrated, digitally enabled, multi-channel advisory systems. Digital technologies including mobile applications, SMS advisories, IoT sensors, AI-driven analytics, and decision-support systems (DSS) offer unprecedented opportunities to enhance outreach, deliver personalized recommendations, strengthen farmer decision-making, and improve resource-use efficiency. These tools can facilitate two-way communication, integrating local knowledge and feedback into extension services, while also supporting market linkages, climate risk management, and sustainability goals. Evidence indicates that mobile and SMS-based advisories are highly inclusive and scalable, whereas IoT, AI, and DSS represent advanced precision technologies with adoption challenges due to costs, digital literacy, connectivity, and institutional capacity. While digital extension can increase productivity, incomes, and resilience, it also risks reinforcing existing inequalities and creating dependencies if accessibility, local relevance, trust, and human facilitation are insufficiently addressed. Key barriers include digital literacy gaps, content localization, gender and socio-economic inequities, data governance, and institutional limitations. Successful digital agriculture requires blended extension models, participatory content design, capacity-building, inclusive service and financing mechanisms, and robust policy frameworks. This review synthesizes recent empirical and market evidence on digital agriculture adoption, impacts on knowledge, productivity, and market access, and identifies research gaps and best practices for inclusive, sustainable, and scalable digital extension services.

Ajaz A. Shah*1 Click here to download file

Research Review | Published online : 02-Jan-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 1 ; 14–19
Hisana Jabeen1 and Vidya C. V.*1
1 Department of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur - 680656, Kerala, India
Abstract
The population dynamics of indigo psyllid, Euphaleropsis isitis (Cotes) (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) infesting Indigofera tinctoria L. were studied under field conditions at the College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, Kerala, from September 2024 to August 2025. Fortnightly observations on egg, nymph, and adult were recorded from 15 plants, and the population was correlated with major weather parameters viz., maximum temperature, minimum temperature, morning relative humidity, evening relative humidity, wind speed, bright sunshine hours, rainfall. The egg stage exhibited multiple peaks without any significant correlation with the weather factors. Nymphal population showed distinct peaks during February, May, and August, with a significant positive correlation with rainfall, indicating that humid conditions favoured their development. The adult population showed three major peaks (March, May, and August) and was negatively correlated with maximum temperature and bright sunshine hours, but positively correlated with evening relative humidity and rainfall. Adult and nymphal abundance was highest during the post-monsoon months (July–August), coinciding with vigorous vegetative growth of the host plants. Population reduction was recorded from mid-October to mid-December. The study suggests that rainfall, moderate temperature, and higher humidity promoted population build-up of Euphaleropsis isitis in Kerala.

Hisana Jabeen1 and Vidya C. V.*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 05-Jan-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 1 ; 20–30
Neethu P. R.*1 and Gleena Mary C. F.2
1-2 Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara - 680 656, (Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur), Kerala, India
Abstract
Postharvest diseases cause substantial losses in fruit production worldwide, with fungal pathogens being the primary causal agent. Traditional control methods rely heavily on chemical fungicides, which pose environmental and health concerns while promoting pathogen resistance. Induced resistance offers a sustainable alternative by activating the fruit's natural defense mechanisms rather than directly targeting pathogens. This review examines two main types of induced resistance: Systemic Acquired Resistance (SAR), triggered by chemical treatments and providing long-lasting protection, and Induced Systemic Resistance (ISR), activated by beneficial microorganisms with faster response times. Various elicitors can trigger these defenses, including physical treatments (UV-C light, heat, modified pressure), chemical compounds (salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, brassinosteroids), and biological agents (chitosan, harpin, oligandrin, beneficial microbes like Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Trichoderma, and antagonistic yeasts). Each elicitor category offers unique advantages for disease management. Application methods such as dipping, spraying, and coating enable practical implementation in commercial systems. While challenges exist regarding timing, formulation stability, and variability across fruit types, combining different elicitors and integrating them with other control strategies shows promise. As regulations tighten and consumer demand for safer produce grows, induced resistance is emerging as a key component of sustainable postharvest disease management.

Neethu P. R.*1 and Gleena Mary C. F.2 Click here to download file

Research Review | Published online : 06-Jan-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 1 ; 31–35
Komal Kumawat*1, Y. Chandrakala2 and S. R. Kumawat3
1-2 Department of Science and Technology, Jayoti Vidyapeeth Women’s University, Jaipur - 303 122, Rajasthan, India 3 College of Agriculture (Agriculture University Jodhpur), Baytu - 344 034, Barmer, Rajasthan, India
Abstract
Seed germination and early seedling development are critical stages that determine crop establishment and final yield. In Sesamum indicum L. (sesame), improving germination rate and early morphological growth can significantly enhance stand establishment under variable field conditions. Two promising and complementary approaches silicon (Si) application (including seed priming) and inoculation with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been investigated across crops and in sesame specifically. This review synthesizes the available literature on mechanisms by which Si and AMF influence seed germination and early seedling traits in sesame, summarizes experimental findings (including a composite data able compiled from multiple studies), and discusses practical implications and research gaps. We show that both Si seed treatments and AMF inoculation generally increase germination percentage, root and shoot elongation, biomass accumulation, and stress resilience; combined Si + AMF treatments often yield additive or synergistic benefits. Representative experimental/compiled data are provided to illustrate typical effect sizes and to guide future experimental design.

Komal Kumawat*1, Y. Chandrakala2 and S. R. Kumawat3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 07-Jan-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 1 ; 36–38
Homendra Siwana*1, Pradeep Kumar Ganjeer2 and Mukesh Kumar Seth3
1 Assistant Professor, (Agricultural Economics), College of Agriculture and Research Station, Jashpur, Kunkuri - 496 225, Chhattisgarh, India 2 Guest Faculty, (Agricultural Statistics), College of Agriculture and Research Station, Kanker - 494 334, Chhattisgarh, India 3 Assistant Professor, (Agricultural Economics), College of Agriculture and Research Station, Mahasamund - 493 445, Chhattisgarh, India
Abstract
The present study was examined the trends and CGR of kharif paddy in Jashpur district and Chhattisgarh State. For the analysis, time series data from 2013-2014 to 2022-2023 were analyzed. The semi-log trend function was used to find out the trend and estimate the growth rate of area, production and Productivity of paddy in Jashpur district of Chhattisgarh. The trend value for CGR of area was found negatively significant (-0.05 percent), production and productivity were found positively significant (0.20 percent and 0.24 percent). Absolute change in area was found negative (-9.75 thousand ha). Relative change was found negative in area (-5.70 percent), production and productivity were found positive (3.47 and 8.33 percent) in Jashpur district. Relative change. CGR of area was found negative significance (-0.05 percent), production and productivity were found positive significance (0.20 percent and 0.24 percent). Agriculture is the mainstay of most of the population in Jashpur. The district’s economy rests mainly on rainfed agriculture, horticulture and animal husbandry. The major agro farm produces are- several varieties of rice including scented rice, pulses, maize, Ramtil and wheat.

Homendra Siwana*1, Pradeep Kumar Ganjeer2 and Mukesh Kumar Seth3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 09-Jan-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 1 ; 39–46
Bobby Singare1 and R. N. Singh*2
1-2 School of Energy and Environment Studies, Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Takshashila Campus, Khandwa Road, Indore - 452 001, Madhya Pradesh, India
Abstract
The objective of the works is to identify, select, cultivate and adopting strategies to yield higher Chlorella vulgaris microalgae for bio hydrogen production by performing various steps. The identification step contains sample collection, morphology and bioenergy producing capability of microalga. Selection criteria of microalgae involve several parameters i.e. easily availability, survival conditions like environmental and biological factors, efficient photosynthetic capability, rapid growth rate and biomass accumulation, high starch and lipid accumulation, sustainable cultivation and scale-up feasibility in semi-arid Malwa region, Indore MP. The process of cultivation was conducted in a photo bioreactor (PBR) or closed system. Key features of photo bioreactor (PBR) are controlled environment, scalability, high biomass productivity ease of harvesting etc. Key environmental factors, including light intensity and nutrient media, are essential in photo bioreactors (PBRs) to enhance cell biomass growth rate and yield. Chlorella vulgaris achieved a peak biomass of 4.43–4.57 g/L after 96 hours, with a maximum CO₂ fixation rate of 4.23 g/L/d and dissolved oxygen (DO) release of 1.85 g/L/d. showing highly reproducible results across optical density, transmittance, and dry weight methods. These findings highlight its strong potential for CO₂ biofixation, oxygen enrichment, and sustainable bioenergy applications.

Bobby Singare1 and R. N. Singh*2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 12-Jan-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 1 ; 47–55
Kumaresan Marappan¹, Anbarasu Mariyappillai*2, Thirumalraj Samikannu3, Meera Thangaraj4 and Gowri Shankar Raman5
1-5 Assistant Professor, Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS), Pallavaram, Chennai - 600 117, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Ornamental flowering trees are vital in landscape gardening due to their aesthetic and ecological significance. However, commercial propagation of ornamentals often results in genetic variability and delayed flowering when propagated through seeds. Vegetative propagation helps overcome these limitations by producing genetically uniform and early-flowering plants. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of cutting type and auxin concentrations on clonal propagation of Pride of India (Lagerstroemia speciosa) using IBA and NAA. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Completely Randomized Design (FCRD) with three replications and seven treatments under a mist chamber. Semi-hardwood and terminal cuttings treated with IBA (1500 ppm and 1000 ppm) performed significantly better than untreated controls. Semi-hardwood cuttings treated with 1500 ppm IBA recorded the highest shoot length (25.00 cm), number of leaves (54.00), number of roots (27.00), root length (35.70 cm) and survival percentage (92.10%). The results demonstrate that clonal propagation through semi-hardwood cuttings treated with IBA at 1500 ppm is the most efficient method for commercial multiplication of Pride of India.

Kumaresan Marappan¹, Anbarasu Mariyappillai*2, Thirumalraj Samikannu3, Meera Thangaraj4 and Gowri Shankar Raman5 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 13-Jan-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 1 ; 56–60
Mahathwa K.*1, Binu N. Kamalolbhavan2, Rajath Kumar3 and Manju Elizabeth P.2
1 M. Sc. (Forestry), Department of Forest Biology and Tree Improvement, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India 2 Assistant Professor, Department of Forest Biology and Tree Improvement, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India 3 M. Sc. (Forestry), Department of Forest Resource Management, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India
Abstract
Melia dubia is a fast-growing, short-rotation tree species widely cultivated for plywood, pulp, and biomass production; however, large-scale planting is constrained by poor seed germination and genetic variability. Although epicormic shoot-based propagation offers a reliable clonal alternative, the influence of branch size on epicormic shoot induction and rooting under hormone-free conditions has not been adequately quantified. The present study evaluated the effect of branch diameter and length on epicormic shoot production and propagation success. Branches were categorized into four treatments based on two diameter classes (1.0-1.5 cm and 3.0-5.0 cm) and two length classes (30 and 90 cm) and maintained under mist chamber conditions. Epicormic shoot emergence, growth attributes, and shoot vigour index were recorded after 50 days, followed by rooting of shoots in sand medium. Thinner branches exhibited earlier sprouting and higher shooting percentage but produced weak shoots that failed to root. In contrast, larger branches produced delayed sprouting but generated more vigourous shoots with higher shoot vigour index, superior rooting percentage (83.33%), complete survival, and enhanced root and shoot growth. Therefore, larger branches are the most suitable source material for efficient epicormic shoot-based clonal propagation of Melia dubia.

Mahathwa K.*1, Binu N. Kamalolbhavan2, Rajath Kumar3 and Manju Elizabeth P.2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 16-Jan-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 1 ; 61–65
Shoaib Nissar Kirmani*1, Sajad Ahmed Sheikh1, Rafiq Ahmed Shah2 and Atiya Maqbool2
1 ICAR- Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir, India 2 Sher e Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
The main finding of this study is a clear shift in extension priorities, moving from general awareness programs to more structured, skill-based training that meets changing climate needs. Understanding how these priorities change is important for better planning and policy decisions. While Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) regularly record extension activities, their data is rarely analyzed for deeper insights. This study looked at four years (2021–2024) of extension program data from ICAR-KVK Baramulla to track changes in priorities. We collected and analyzed secondary data on the number, type, and participation in extension programs using descriptive trend analysis. The results show a steady move from general awareness programs to more structured training, with a greater focus on skill-building and climate-responsive activities. These findings show that regular institutional data can reveal important changes in extension priorities and help with adaptive planning.

Shoaib Nissar Kirmani*1, Sajad Ahmed Sheikh1, Rafiq Ahmed Shah2 and Atiya Maqbool2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 19-Jan-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 1 ; 66–72
Nerisha Debbarma*1, Usha Rani Tripura2, Rusan Debbarma3 and Risha Debbarma4
1 Kokborok Translator, Information and Cultural Affairs Department, Gandhighat, Agartala - 799 001, Tripura, India 2-3 Guest Lecture, Department of Kokborok, Bir Bikram Memorial College, Pratapgarh, Agartala - 799 004, Tripura, India 4 Department of Kokborok, Tripura University, Agartala - 799 022, Tripura, India
Abstract
This study examines the significant cultural and spiritual significance of nature worship within the Tipra (Tripuri) community of Tripura India, focusing on the central role of bamboo in religious rituals. For generations, the Tipra people have maintained a polytheistic, animistic belief system where natural elements including hills, rivers, and trees are revered as divine manifestations. Central to this spiritual framework is the Wathop (or Lampra Wathop), a sacred symbolic altar crafted specifically from the wathwi variety of bamboo. The Wathop serves as a vital intermediary between the community and the divine, utilized in rituals spanning the human lifecycle from birth and weddings (Kailai Panda) to purification rites following death. Beyond individual milestones, the ritual is essential for communal welfare, performed twice annually and during festivals like Ker Puja to repel negative energy and ensure agricultural prosperity. The execution of these sacred ceremonies is the exclusive responsibility of the Ochai (priest), who acts as a spiritual guide and healer, assisted by the Baruwa in assembling the ritual items. By examining these practices, this work shows the enduring legacy of bamboo-based worship as a cornerstone of Tipra identity and its role in maintaining a harmonious relationship with the natural world.

Nerisha Debbarma*1, Usha Rani Tripura2, Rusan Debbarma3 and Risha Debbarma4 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 22-Jan-2026