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

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

Volume - 13 - January-February 2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 001–011
Asgar Ali*1 and Kamal Singh2
1-2 Department of Botany, D. S. College (Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar University), Aligarh - 202 001, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
Sawdust is an important industrial waste product derived from neem (Azadirachta indica) wood that has environmental consequences along with economic viability, so it can be intricately used to boost crop growth and yield by boosting some of the physico-chemical properties of the soil with moisture and nutrient pool reversal. Because of the production of so many organic chemicals with nematicidal potential, the presence of neem sawdust (NSD) also mitigates the root-knot nematode populace. All eggplant yield parameters (number and weight of flowers, fruits, and seeds) were increased by up to 30% decomposed NSD levels. Decomposed NSD has been proven to be hazardous to eggplant yield at concentrations of more than 30%. All of them, meanwhile, is significantly inhibited by the existence of the root-knot nematode. Regrettably, subsequent sawdust additions drastically decreased yields, since no flowering or fruiting was seen with NSD amendments comprising 80 to 100% NSD. As compared to the control or the 3500 and 4000 inoculum levels, the 3000 nematode inoculum level showed the greatest suppression of yield. Apparently, nematode inhibitory effects on yield have always been steadily mitigated; up to a 30% degraded NSD concentration. Varying degraded NSD levels must affect the nematode population. The population of nematodes in roots, soil, and total nematode population flourished up to 3000 nematode levels and even declined, although somewhat insignificantly, at 3500 and 4000 levels. All of the NSD additions reflected such a population boom. Throughout all NSD additions, the number of eggs per egg mass (i.e., fecundity) was dramatically decreased. It must have been likewise boosted to 3500 nematode levels before being diminished in successive nematode inoculums. The reproduction factor had already been steadily decreasing across both directions. That seems to be either immense sawdust additions or perhaps even nematode inoculum levels. As a consequence, we may still infer that the NSD amendments boost yield by up to 30% based on observed yield trends. But from another aspect, it has been demonstrated that its addition is harmful to the nematode population. As somewhat of a result, overall implementation of NSD addition was indeed feasible since it limited the pest populace even while boosting yield.

Research Article | Published online : 03-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 012–017
M. Prem Nawaz1, M. Palanivelu2, A. Afroos Banu3, K. Mohamed Faizal4, D. Saravanakkumar5 and A. Ayeshamariam*6
1-4 Department of Chemistry, Khadir Mohideen College (Bharathidasan University), Adirampattinam - 614 701, Tamil Nadu, India 5 P. G. and Research Department of Physics, Thiagarajar College, Madurai - 625 009, Tamil Nadu, India 6 Department of Physics, Khadir Mohideen College (Bharathidasan University), Adirampattinam - 614 701, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Herbal nutritional assisted nanoparticles synthesis has a wide range of applications of emerging non-side effect medicinal drugs in recent trends of nano drug research as far as being based with ecofriendly. Phytochemicals of traditional herbal namely Cassia auriculata leaf’s intermediated Silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs) have been synthesized in employing ultra sound effect so called Sonochemical techniques. In this present work on green synthesis approach, one of the best candidates, Ag nanoparticles act as potential agent to investigate the antibacterial activity by well diffusion method. The essential role of crystal size of NPs on both antimicrobial and heavy metal absorption and other relevant primary crystallographic data is derived by the powder x-ray diffraction (PXRD) crystallography cornerstone rapid analytic technique. Its result revealed the formation of Ag nanostructure along with prepared samples. Optical outcomes like absorption and transmittance for part of the electromagnetic spectrum as well as the functional vibrations are determined by the UV-Vis and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman (FTR) spectroscopy respectively. Information about particle size and morphological details of caped silver NPs is interpreted by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) followed by the selective area electron diffraction (SAED) techniques which give the patterns used to reveal the poly dispersion and size distribution nature.

Research Article | Published online : 03-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 018–022
Jeiya E. Viruthagiri1, Raja B*2 and K. Dhanasekaran3
1-2 Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar - 608 002, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India 3 Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai Nagar - 608 002, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
In order to increase the biomass yield of aloe vera five treatments namely T1- control, T2-NPK, T3 -NPK + FYM, T4-NPK+FYM +Microbial consortium (MC) and T5 - NPK+FYM + microbial consortium + gibberellic acid (GA)where imposed in pot experiment. The result of the study revealed that application of NPK either alone or in combination with organic manure, microbial consortium and gibberellic acid @ 05 ppm significantly increased the leaf length, leaf breadth, leaf thickness, leaf area index, gel content and biomass yield of aloe vera. Foliar application of gibberellic acid @0.5ppm in combination with NPK and FYM showed a significant increase in the biomass yield of aloe vera as compared to treatments.

Research Article | Published online : 03-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 023–027
Animesh Gogoi1-2, Siddhartha Proteem Saikia2 and Manash Pratim Sarma3
1,3 Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Assam down town University, Panikhaiti, Guwahati - 781 026, Assam, India 2 North East Institute of Science and Technology (CSIR), Jorhat - 785 006, Assam, India
Abstract
Jatropha (Jatropha curcas Linn.) is an oil-bearing species with multiple uses and considerable potential as a bioenergy crop. The present investigation has been undertaken to assess the variability in seed traits, moisture percentage and oil content of 25 accessions of Jatropha curcas collected from different agroclimatic zones of North-East India. There were significant differences (P<0.05) in seed size, 100 seed weight and oil content among the accessions. The maximum seed weight was recorded in J-22 collected from Baramura, Tripura and the minimum in J-13 collected from Roing, Arunachal Pradesh. Oil variability ranged from 25% (J-20, collected from Mokochung, Nagaland) to 36% (J-18, collected from Mamit, Mizoram). The moisture percentage in the sun-dried seeds varied from 6.06% (J-5, collected from Lambding, Assam) to 11.32% (J-6, collected from Lakhimpur, Assam). When the oil percentage of seeds is correlated with the sun-dried seed moisture percentage and 100 seed weight, it has been found that the oil yield is negatively correlated with the seed moisture. On the other hand, the seed weight has strong positive correlation with the oil yield. The toxic phorbol ester content of Jatropha curcas seeds cultivated in North East Institute of Science & Technology, Jorhat, Assam in non-defatted and defatted whole and kernel seed meals were also assessed. Detoxifications of phorbol esters from Jatropha curcas by chemical treatments were performed. The effects of the chemical treatments were successful in detoxification of phorbol esters content.

Research Article | Published online : 04-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 028–036
Suman Karmakar1 and Chowdhury Habibur Rahaman*2
1-2 Department of Botany, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan - 731 235, West Bengal, India.
Abstract
The present investigation encompasses the ethnomedicinal uses of plants utilized by the Santal people living adjacent to Biharinath hill in the district of Bankura, West Bengal. Ethnomedicinal data were obtained from the Santal informants (medicine men and knowledgeable persons) through semi-structured interviews. Before collection of the data Free, Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) was taken from each informant to ensure their intellectual property rights. The collected data have been evaluated using suitable statistical indices, viz. Informant Consensus Factor (Fic) and Cultural Value Index (CV) to recognize the most significant ethnomedicinal plant species used in the surveyed region. In total, 78 plant species have been recorded and they are utilized in the area for treatment of 37 health disorders. The root (31.6%) is the most recurrently used plant part in the recorded formulations. The Birth/Puerperium Disorders and Sensory System Disorders obtained the highest Fic value, i.e., 1. Based on the values of the CV index, the top ranked 25 taxa have been identified, namely Asparagus racemosus Willd., Soymida febrifuga (Roxb.) A. Juss., Byttneria herbacea Roxb., etc. The documentation of such ethnomedicinal knowledge will enrich the data base of the district as well as the country, but scientific validation of the documented ethnomedicinal claims is needed.

Research Article | Published online : 04-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 037–041
Mamta Tiwari*1, Pushpraj S. Gupta2 and Nisha Sharma3
1-2 School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj - 211 007, Uttar Pradesh, India 3 Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University, Kanpur - 208 012, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
Plumeria acuminata (PA) is known for treating various disorders in folk medicines since a long time. The aim of the study was to explore wound healing activity of PA. The methanol extract of leaves of Plumeria acuminata (PAME) was incorporated in simple ointment base B.P. at concentration of 5% (w/w) and 10% (w/w). Wound healing activity was evaluated in excision, wound model, using standard drug 5% (w/w) Betadine to compare the results. The data obtained suggested that PAME has satisfactory wound healing potential in rat models. Both the concentrations 5% (w/w) and 10% (w/w) ointment significantly (p<0.001) and (p<0.001 reduced wound contraction respectively as well as reduced epithelization period also. The study concluded that Plumeria acuminata (PA) has potential to accelerate wound healing process.

Research Article | Published online : 05-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 042–046
Smita Lata*1 and Shalini Mehta2
1 Department of Botany, Ranchi University, Ranchi - 834 002, Jharkhand, India 2 Department of Botany, Ranchi Women’s College, Ranchi - 434 001, Jharkhand, India
Abstract
Nanotechnology a rapidly growing field during past decade, their wide spread use can cause serious health problems and several impact on environment. Among the various nanoparticles there is special concern regarding silver nanoparticles due to its wide use in various field, especially in agriculture sector. The present study aims to evaluate genotoxic and cytotoxic effect of synthetic silver nanoparticles on root tip cells of Allium species. Root tips of both species were treated with 10 nm synthetic silver nanoparticles of different concentration for three different time intervals. When the results were compared to control sample there was, decrease in mitotic index, increase in damaged cell and chromosomal aberration. Damaged cell includes concave plasmolyzed cell, cell wall deformities like blebs, breakage, elongated cell, whereas chromosomal aberration include ring, bridge, laggard, stickiness. It was found that 10 nm particle can enter through cell wall easily.

Research Article | Published online : 06-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 047–052
S. Parthasarathy1 and G. Ajithkumar*2
1-2 P. G. and Research Department of Chemistry, Arignar Anna Government Arts College (Bharathidasan University Trichy), Musiri - 621 211, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The efficacy of the low-cost biosorbents Vigna Uguiculata Activated Carbon (VUAC) and Oryza sativa Activated Carbon (OSAC) for the removal of Pb(II) ions from synthetic waste water was investigated. Both adsorbents were carbonized and sieved to provide a wide range of adsorbent sizes. Batch adsorption experiments were carried out. To match the adsorption data, Lagergren, Bhattacharya Venkobachar, Weber-Morris, Langmuir, and Freundlich isothermal models were employed and the corresponding constants KLager, KBhatt, and Kid were determined. Concentration separation factor (RL) and maximum adsorption capacity (Q) were determined. The Ea was also determined and taken into consideration. The thermodynamic parameters G0, H0, and S0 were determined. Both adsorbents were characterized using FTIR spectroscopy and SEM. Spontaneity of the process is confirmed by the negative value of G0. Both intraparticle and pore diffusion occurred during the adsorption process.

Research Article | Published online : 06-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 053–058
Yasar Nishat1, Mohammad Danish*2 and Hisamuddin3
1-3 Section of Plant Pathology and Plant Nematology, Department of Botany, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh - 202 002, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
A glass house experiment was conducted to investigate the efficacy of press mud and Glomus mosseae for the management of Meloidogyne incognita on Psoralea corylifolia. From the results it was found that all the treated plants were recorded to improve the plant length, fresh and dry biomass of shoot and root, biochemical characteristics with decrease gall formation, nematode population and root-knot index. The greatest and most significant increases were found in plants cultivated on soil drenched with press mud and treated with G. mosseae one week earlier to M. incognita inoculation. Lowest gall formation, nematode population and root-knot index were observed in the same treatment. It may be concluded that using press mud in conjunction with G. mosseae promotes plant growth, yield qualities, and reduce the nematode development.

Research Article | Published online : 07-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 059–064
J. Surya Prakash*1, Seema2, P. Radhika3, K. Apparao4 and K. Supriya5
1-4 School of Agribusiness Management, College of Agriculture, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad - 500 030, Telangana, India 5 Department of Statistics and Mathematics, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad - 500 030, Telangana, India
Abstract
Agricultural labour scarcity is the main problem faced by farmers in rural India. Number of Draft animals is dwindling in rural areas because of high maintenance cost. The farm mechanization plays an important role to take up timely agricultural operations. Custom hiring is seen as an alternative to ownership of expensive farm machinery. In Telangana state, the farmers are earnings profits through hiring besides facilitating in mechanizing other farms who are unable to purchase on their own. Hence the study is proposed to ascertain the economic viability of investment in machinery for custom hiring. The study is conducted in the Karimnagar of Telangana state, the district is purposively selected as it is one of the major paddy producing districts. To perform the analysis, data was collected through personal interviews from the selected farmers, with the help of structured questionnaire/schedule. The results revealed that the mechanization levels are 100 per cent in terms of operations like preparation of land and harvesting in paddy crop. The result indicated that it was found that the Net Present Value over the economic life period was ₹ 1536724, ₹ 710611, ₹ 2045612 and ₹ 1858782, for tractor with other operations, tractor with rotavator, paddy transplanter, combine harvester. The Internal Rate of Return on machineries and implements worked out to be 46 per cent, 48 per cent and 23 per cent for tractor with other operations, tractor with rotavator, paddy transplanter, combine harvester. The Profitable Index worked out were 3.6, 3.5, 2.5 and 2.1. It is found that Break-Even Point for the selected farm machineries and implements were 140 hours, 129 hours, 186 hours and 320 hours for tractor with other operations, tractor with rotavator, for paddy transplanter and combine harvester.

Research Article | Published online : 08-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 065–067
Priya P. Menon*1, K. T. Chandramohanan2 and V. V. Radhakrishnan3
1 Department of Statistics, Maharaja’s College, Ernakulam, Kochi - 682 011, Kerala, India 2 Department of Botany, Government Brennen College, Thalasserry - 670 106, Kerala, India 3 Department of Botany, University of Calicut, Kerala - 673 635, India
Abstract
Sixty-eight accessions of peacock ginger were subjected to UPGMA simple agglomerative hierarchical clustering method in order to identify the closeness and distance that pertain between the accessions on the basis of fifteen agronomic characters. The accessions were grouped into three clusters. Based on the inter cluster distance, the accessions belonging to the most distant clusters could be identified and used for hybridization programmes to produce better and promising hybrids. UPGMA clustering method provides an efficient tool to identify the genetic diversity present in the population. This technique helps in the selection of genetically divergent parents and can be exploited in the crop improvement programmes.

Short communication | Published online : 10-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 068–077
Abdul Hadi*1, Seema Singh2, Sajjad Ali3 and Mohammad Mehdi4
1-3 Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal - 190 006, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India 4 Department of Botany, HNB Garhwal University, Srinagar - 246 174, Uttarakhand, India
Abstract
Ladakh Union Territory constitutes the major portion of the Indian cold desert. It has a vast diversity of medicinal and aromatic plants. Traditional uses of medicinal plants to cure various ailments in Ladakh have been practiced from time immemorial. The current investigation was conducted to substantiate the information on traditional uses of medicinal plants in the region and to keep the existence of this system in the future. Extensive field survey was conducted in different region of Ladakh UT from April 2016- September 2021 to observe the habitat, distribution pattern, altitudinal ranges, flowering, and traditional uses of aromatic and medicinal plants. The elevation and geo-coordinates were recorded from Garmin GPS Erex-30. A total of 500 informants were interviewed during the current study. All the informants belonged to two religions i.e., Islam and Buddhism. Male informants are composed of (55%) and female 45 %. A total of 169 plant species (3 gymnosperms, 166 angiosperms) belonging to 41 families and 108 genera have been recorded, were used by local peoples of Ladakh such as Amchis, Abas, Shepherds, Dards, Brokpas, Baltis, Purkies and Herbalists. Most of the medicinal plants utilized by indigenous peoples belonged to the family Asteraceae followed by Lamiaceae, Ranunculaceae and Apiaceae. The most plant part used were Leaves (24%) followed by flowers (20%), roots (16%), seeds (11%), and whole plant (10%). The major inhabitants of Ladakh live at an elevation of 2800- 3800m asl. From the current study, it can be inferences that tribal people of Ladakh particularly older people possess a vast knowledge of traditional system medicine locally known as “Amchi’s” or “Tibetian” system of medicine. Thus, the documentation of this current traditional system of medicine will add to its conservation and will dispense new drugs for the betterment of society. There is an immediate need to conduct awareness programs by involving various stakeholders, universities, colleges, schools, and other various government and non-governmental organizations and to adopt sustainable utilization strategies.

Research Article | Published online : 10-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 078–080
P. Madhanakumari1 and M. Mahalakshmi*2
1-2 Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The field experiment was conducted to study the influences of organic manures on the yield of taro variety Sree Rashmi at Kollakudi village, Tamil Nadu between February – August 2020 in randomized block design with nine treatments and three replications. Organic manures used for the study were farm yard manure, vermicompost, neem oil cake, phosphobacteria were applied as basal form and Seaweed extract, effective microorganisms, and panchagavya, were soil drenched on the day of sowing, 30th and 60th days after sowing as per the treatment. Results revealed that the maximum values of growth and quality parameters viz. number of taken for sprouting 15.12, plant height on 45, 90, 135 days were 45.72cm, 97.43cm, 144.99cm respectively, number of leaves/plant 11.24, leaf length 45.48cm, leaf width 31.26cm, number of cormels/ plant 20.34, total cormel yield / plot (24.13 kg), were recorded under the treatment of RDF + vermicompost (5t ha-1) + sea weed extract (5ml/ litre) + phosphobacteria (2 kg ha-1) proved best treatment in respect of these parameters. Among all the organic manures sea weed extract combined with vermicompost and phosphobacteria proved beneficial in respect of yield and yield attributes. The minimum values of all these characters were recorded under control. It may be concluded that the sea weed extract, vermicompost, phosphobacteria to be feasible substitute to synthetic fertilizers also plays prominent role in production of quality tubers. This practice can be further recommended to farmers for increasing the yield and enhancing the productivity of the crop thereby improving the monetary return.

Short communication | Published online : 11-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 081–085
Sanjay Kumar Shahi1, Aditya Kumar*2, Saroj Kumar3 and Neeraj Kumar Vaishya4
1-3 Department of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Udai Pratap Autonomous College (MGKV University) Varanasi - 221 002, Uttar Pradesh, India 4 Krishi Vigyan Kendra Gumla, Vikas Bharti Bishunpur - 835 231, Jharkhand, India
Abstract
An experiment was undertaken on sandy loam soil at the research plot of Udai Pratap Autonomous College Varanasi with mustard variety VARUNA as a test crop during Rabi season (2019-2020) to study the effect of Sulphur and zinc nutrition on the growth and yield performance of mustard (Brassica juncea L.) and soil properties. The experiment comprised of T1 (control), T2 (NPK + 8 kg Zn ha-1), T3 (NPK + 10 kg Zn ha-1), T4 (NPK + 12kg Zn ha-1), T5 (NPK + 40 kg S ha-1), T6 (NPK + 40kg S + 8 kg Zn ha-1), T7 (NPK + 40 kg S + 10 kg Zn ha-1). Significantly higher plant height (141.62 cm), number of branches (80.40 plant-1), number of seed siliqua-1 (14.87), number of siliqua plant-1 (117.33 cm), seed yield (13.49 q ha-1) and stover yield (38.35 q ha-1) and nutrients consumption was recorded where 40 kg S + 10 kg Zn ha-1 was applied. Application of 40 kg S + 10 kg Zn ha-1 registered significantly higher nutrient uptake (NPK S) and soil available nutrients (NPK S and Zn).

Research Article | Published online : 11-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 086–088
Ankita Dey*1 and Baby Singha2
1 Department of Microbiology, Assam University, Silchar - 788 011, Assam, India 2 Department of Zoology, Gurucharan College, Silchar - 788 004, Assam, India
Abstract
Several attempts yielded those soils of Cachar district are rich in entomopathogens viz., entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN), entomopathogenic bacteria (EPB) and entomopathogenic fungi (EPF), therefore adequate knowledge of pathogen ecology- its spatial distribution, population dynamics and its efficacy are essential for improvement of sustainable, eco-friendly pest management practice in the district. Among all the entomopathogens, EPF are the most potential natural mortality agents because it has wide host range, host specific, viability in soil and infectivity on slight contact with the host. The present study was conducted to isolate and identify local strain of EPF from soil using Greater wax moth, Galleria mellonela as baiting insect. Based on detailed morphological study through microscopic observation after lactophenol cotton blue staining, the species identified as Beauvaria bassiana. In potato dextrose agar (PDA) culture medium EPF was cultured at various pH level (3.5-6.8) for 13 days. The identified EPF, B. bassiana grew as white mould, it produces distinct spore balls made of many dry, powdery conidia. Each spore ball is made of group of numerous conidiogenous cells. The conidiogenous cells are short, ovoid and with elongated rachis. The optimum temperature, relative humidity and pH for abundant sporulation growth of EPF, B. bassiana in PDA culture medium was 25°C, 90±5% & 6.8 respectively. Sporulation growth directly proportional to pH level, as with the increase in pH the biomass of B. bassiana increased considerably. Maximum dry biomass growth recorded 180mg and radial expansion 4.57mm diameter at pH 6.8. PDA media also noted to be ideal for mass production of B. bassiana. Future scope of this research can be concluded that this experiment has already highlighted some aspects of efficacy of EPF, B. bassiana in effective pest management strategy. Extensive exploration with molecular characterization of indigenous isolates required for better adaptability of predator-prey association in different agroclimatic zones of Assam. Host specific virulent strains should be identified and maintained by mass production in appropriate nutrient supplement. Also, formulation storage technique for prolonged shelf life should be developed.

Short communication | Published online : 12-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 089–093
B. Venkata Murali*1 and Eswar Kumar Kilari2
1 Bioanalytical Department, Palamur Biosciences Private Limited, SH-20, Karvina, Madigattla Village, Bhoothpur Mandal, Mahabubnagar -509 382, Telangana, India 2 Pharmacology Division, Andhra University College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam - 530 003, Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract
The drug interaction studies between Mangiferin and Gliclazide were conducted in normal rabbits by administering them individually and in combination. A dose of Gliclazide which produced 30-40 % reduction in blood glucose and Mangiferin given as single and multiple doses (10 doses) was chosen for the combination study. At designated time intervals, blood samples were collected and the serum glucose was estimated by GOD/POD method and serum Gliclazide was measured by High Performance Liquid chromatography. We observed significant interaction between Mangiferin (single dose or multiple doses) and Gliclazide in normal rabbits reflected through the elevated serum concentrations of Gliclazide and enhanced reduction in serum glucose. Hence, it is evident that Mangiferin alters the pharmacokinetics as well as pharmacodynamics of Gliclazide and caution must be exercised if combination therapy is used.

Research Article | Published online : 12-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 094–099
Moromi Engtipi*1 and N. L. Raju2
1-2 Department of Life Science and Bioinformatics, Assam University Diphu Campus, Diphu - 782 460, Assam, India
Abstract
Today when people are shifting their notion more towards the naturalness of food, they prefer food made up of natural and nutritious ingredients in their regular diets. Karbi a hilly tribe dwelling in the hilly regions of state Assam, India has been observed to have a very natural and flavorful culinary heritage. Their food choice and food-pairing include many indigenous herbs and spices as major ingredients, which gives the Karbi cuisines an exotic and palatable appearance with many health benefits. Yet research on these indigenous herbs and spices used by the Karbi tribe relating to its functional food properties is not done in the region. Therefore, the present paper is an attempt to explore and record the indigenous herbs and spices used by the Karbi tribe for their varieties of cuisines preparation. The study reported 22 plant species used as herbs and spices by the Karbis. The food significance index value and the salience index value of the reported herbs and spices showed varied differences.

Research Article | Published online : 14-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 100–102
S. S. Chougale*1 and D. K. Gaikwad2
1-2 Department of Botany, Shivaji University, Kolhapur - 416 004, Maharashtra, India
Abstract
An environment-friendly approach for silver nanoparticles synthesis is demonstrated in the present study using Amaranthus spinosus a spiny pigweed. The potential of Amaranthus spinosus leaf extract to aid the synthesis of silver nanoparticles is evaluated in a simple way. After mixing the leaf extract of Amaranthus spinosus with silver nitrate solution, the formation of silver nanoparticles was observed. Synthesized particles were characterized by using UV-Visible spectroscopy, Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering and Transmission Electron Microscopy. UV-Vis spectrum of the solution containing silver nanoparticles demonstrated a peak at 425nm. The energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy of the synthesized particles demonstrated a peak at 3KeV and silver as a major elemental composition (89.83%). DLS analysis for particle size provided the Z-average (d.nm) 76.05 with polydispersity index 0.378 and TEM analysis revealed that the particles were below 100nm in size and mostly spherical. Leaf extract of Amaranthus spinosus acted well as a source of natural reducing agents for silver nanoparticles synthesis. The use of plant extract is indeed a simple, nontoxic and rapid method for nanoparticles synthesis and utilization of weeds for this purpose offers a way for weed control.

Short communication | Published online : 15-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 103–107
R. Rajeswaran1, S. Archana2, T. Murugan3, G. V. Shylasree4, N. Banumathi5 and P. Muthirulan*6
1,5 Department of Chemistry, Rani Anna Govt. College for Women, Tirunelveli - 627 008, Tamil Nadu, India 3,4 Department of Chemistry, S. T. Hindu College, Nagercoil - 629 002, Tamil Nadu, India 2,6 Department of Chemistry, Lekshmipuram College of Arts and Science, Neyyoor - 629 802, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Agricultural byproducts or wastes disposal has become a major problem in world, either it has to be disposed safely or used for the recovery of valuable materials. In the present investigation, various agriculture byproducts (rice husk, sugarcane baggasse, wheat husk, jackfruit tree bark) were utilized for the preparation of activated carbons by physico-chemical method were effectively used to remove safranin (SF) dyes from aqueous solution by batch adsorption technique. The as prepared activated carbons possess excellent improvement in the surface textural and functional group characteristics. The effect of adsorbents dose, initial pH, initial dye concentration, and contact time and particle size on SF dye removal have been studied. The linearity of curve and correlation coefficient value of isotherms such as Freundlich and Langmuir shows that the system covered monolayer adsorption. The RL value indicates that the process is favourable. The adsorption capacity value Q0 is in the order: CAC > JFBC > RHC> WHC > SBC. The pseudo first order kinetic equations such as Natarajan – Khalaf, Bhattacharya – Venkobachar and Lagergren were found to be applicable.

Research Article | Published online : 17-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 108–112
Shayma Parveen*1
1 Department of Agroforestry, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi - 284 128, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
An experiment was conducted during rabi season in factorial randomized block design at Organic Agriculture Research Farm, Karguaanji, Institute of Agricultural Sciences Bundelkhand University Jhansi to assess the effect of biofertilizers on different varieties of barley under Arjun based agro-forestry system with 3 treatments in main plot and 4 treatments in sub plot. The treatments were replicated three times. The main plot treatments consisted of three varieties of barley namely V1- PL-58, V2- PL-426 and V3- Azad whereas subplot treatment consisted of biofertilizers B0- Control, B1– Azotobacter, B2– P hosphorous Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) and B3 – Azotobacter + Phosphorous Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB). The growth, yield and yield parameters were studied.

Research Article | Published online : 17-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 113–116
S. Ramkumar*1 and S. Ganesh2
1-2 School of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Gandhigram Rural Institute (Deemed to be University), Dindigul - 624302, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of fertigation and consortium of biological sources on flower characteristics of Edward Rose in Coimbatore during 2015 to 2020. The treatment combination consisted of three levels of the recommended dose of fertilizer through fertigation (RDFTF) gradients (125,100 and 75 percent NPK), (RDF @ 178: 178: 356 kg NPK ha-1), recommended dose of Microbial Consortium which contains Azospirillum and Phosphobacteria (MC) @ 12.5 kg ha-1, foliar spray of Panchagavya (3 and 4%) and humic acid (0.4 and 0.5%) were laid out in Randomized Block Design and replicated twice. The results revealed that the flower characters viz., number of flower buds plant-1 (12.88), open flower diameter (6.51 cm), number of petals flower-1 (77.88), days to 50 per cent flowering (121.50), number of days to shoot emergence ( 6.75), number of days for bud emergence (43.14), stem girth (0.92 cm), pedicel length (3.68 cm), receptacle diameter ( 0.98 cm) and petal: receptacle ratio (3.0) were significantly high in the plants treated with 100 percentage of RDFTF + MC @ 12.5 kg ha-1+ 4 per cent Panchagavya + 0.5 per cent Humic acid (T12) when compared to the Control (T19). The treatment which received 100 per cent of RDFTF + MC @ 12.5 kg ha-1 + 3 per cent Panchagavya + 0.5 per cent Humic acid (T10) was observed to be on par with the best treatment (T12). T12 treatment is found to be the best among all the other treatments.

Research Article | Published online : 18-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 117–120
Gudimalla Prashanthi*1, Kuntamalla Sujatha2 and Janga Satish3
1-3 Sericulture Unit, Department of Zoology, Kakatiya University, Warangal - 506 009, Telangana, India
Abstract
The present study was carried out to isolate and identify the bacteria from the body of tasar silkworm cadaver using 16SrRNA gene sequence analysis. The outdoor rearing of silkworm was carried out during 2016 to 2018.The phylogenetic tree constructed on the basis of 16SrRNA gene sequence revealed that bacteria strain isolated as clustered was closest member of Bacillus sps and is identified as Bacillus paramycoides with 100% similarity and length of 1404 bp.

Research Article | Published online : 19-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 121–128
Snigdha Chakraborty*1 and Kongbrailatpam Babyrani Devi2
1-2 Department of Zoology, Assam down town University, Panikhaiti, Guwahati - 781 026, Assam, India
Abstract
This present study deals with the different types of fishing gears used by the Meitei Community of Manipur. The Meitei Community use their traditional fishing gears to catch fishes for domestic consumption as well as to earn their livelihood. A total of about 16 different types of Fishing gears were recorded such as Gill net, Cast net, Dip or lift net, Drag net, Scoop net, Surrounding net, Taijeps, Tekhao-Lu, Kao, Soralu, kabo-Lu, Longup or Plunge cover blasket Khoitek thaba, Khoisang Thakpa or Longline, Angling or Khoi Choppa or Pole line and wounding gear. The present study reveals that the fishermen of Manipur use primitive traditional fishing gears and these include wounding gears, pole and line, Hooks, Traps, Nets for fishing and also provides information for proper conservation and management of the gears with development of the modern fishing gear which is very much important for upliftment and betterment of socio-economic condition of the fishing community.

Research Article | Published online : 20-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 129–135
Shivanand S. Bhat*1-2 and L. Rajanna3
1 Research and Development Center, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore - 641 046, Tamil Nadu, India 2 Department of Botany, Government Arts and Science College, Karwar - 581 301, Karnataka, India 3 Department of Botany, Bangalore University, Jnanabharathi Campus, Bangalore - 560 056, Karnataka
Abstract
Recent days there has been an increasing interest in the study of medicinal plants with their traditional use and related pharmacological research all over the World. This research enumerated medicinal plants used by home gardens of Honnavar Taluk of Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, India. The aim of this study is to collect and identify the plants used in medicinal therapy by the local people and professional traditional healers with quantitative analysis. An ethnobotanical survey was carried out during August 2020 to August 2021 among the Uttara Kannada people in ten villages of Honnavar Taluk region in Karnataka, India. The information was obtained through open and semi-structured face-to-face interviews with the local knowledgeable people and professional traditional healers. The statistical analysis, use value, family use value, informants’ consensus factor was calculated for the quantitative study of ethnomedicinal data. A total of 38 home garden plant species belonging 23 families dominated by the families were enumerated with detailed information on parts used, method of preparation, mode of administration and ailments treated. Leaves were mostly used plant part and predominantly used herbal preparations were juice. The present study demonstrated the need for importance of documenting the traditional knowledge of home garden dwelling people.

Research Article | Published online : 21-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 136–140
Ghulam Mustafa*1
1 Department of Economics, University of Jammu, Baba Saheb Ambedkar Road, Jammu Tawi - 180 006, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
This article investigates India’s export performance of Agriculture sector with Saudi Arabia. The study has used several trade indicators such as Revealed Comparative Advantage index, Export intensity index and Import intensity index to empirically analyze trade competition and intensity of 24 agricultural products. The analysis is performed for the period 2001 to 2020. The findings of this study show that only five of the agriculture products have sustainable comparative advantage during the study period. It also confirms that there are few products in which the RCA is declining while in the others it is increasing. There exists great potential for further development of agricultural trade between India and the Saudi Arabia, and that positive and effective trade policies will result in maximization of potential agriculture trade development and will bring forth mutual benefits to both countries.

Research Article | Published online : 22-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 141–142
Puratchikkodi G1, Srinivasan G2 and Jeevamathi J*3
1-2 Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Tamil Nadu is a potential centre for the growth and development of palm products industry to a greater extent so as to attract foreign exchange by way of export of Palm Products. The domestic consumption of palmyah palm products has been increasing because of urbanization, awareness and increases in per capita income, the growth of retail sector especially the growth of retailers on palmyah palm products are tremendous. In this situation, the study on factor determining consumers purchase decision on palmaryah palm products in Tamil Nadu was carried out with following specific objectives: i) To estimate the influence of factors determining the consumer preference for palmyrah palm products in Trichy city, ii) To offer suggestions for better marketability for palmyrah palm products in the study area. Trichy is one of the major metropolitan cities, located in the centre of the state and it representing urban and settled rural population. Hence it was purposively selected for the study. From the Trichy city, a representative sample comprising of 120 consumers from twelve corporate retail shops were selected randomly. The results showed that at the consumer level, most of them are unaware of the palmyrah palm products especially brands. Therefore, the study suggested that information and awareness on health benefits of palmyrah palm products can be disseminated to consumers through advertisement and social networks for the better performance. The study concluded that the income of the consumer, price and quality of palmyrah palm products play an important role in taking decision regarding the purchase of the products. At the consumer level, most of them were unaware of palmyrah palm products especially brands. Therefore, information and awareness on health benefits of palmyrah palm products can be disseminated to consumers through advertisement and by mass media. All zonal railways may be requested to provide place for sale palmyrah palm products on the platform of major railway station to the cooperative societies and cooperative federations at the nominal rent considering the social significance.

Short communication | Published online : 24-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 143–146
S. Sreeja*1 and Leena Leon2
1-2 Department of Home Science, St. Teresas College, Ernakulam - 682 001, Kerala, India
Abstract
Eating a safe food continues to be one of the major concerns of the societies. An important factor for a successful food control is to create awareness for food safety and quality information, education and communication. According to FSSAI, Food Safety Officers conduct inspection of the food establishments, and they must have adequate knowledge in food safety to perform their duties and responsibilities. This study is carried of the respondents had a moderate knowledge in food safety. Only 20% of the respondents were included in the required group of high knowledge category. Karl Pearson correlation coefficient between knowledge score and practice score is 0.361(P<0.05) shown that the strength of the association between knowledge and practice is medium. The chi square test shows that the level of knowledge is significantly associated with their educational qualification. The proportion of medium/high level of knowledge is more among post graduates in Food Science. The findings shown a need to update the qualifications required for a Food Safety Officer.

Research Article | Published online : 25-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 147–149
Mohd Kashif*1 and M. Z. Beg2
1-2 Department of Botany, Shibli National (P.G.) College, Azamgarh - 276 001, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
In the irrigation medium, five different concentrations of sugar industry effluent were being used: 20% as T1, 40% as T2, 60% as T3, 80% as T4, and 100% as T5. The diameter of the flower, length of the anther, pollen fertility, number of flowers per inflorescence, number of inflorescences per plant, number of fruits per plant, diameter of fruit, number of seeds per fruits, average of fruit, and productivity per plant were all investigated as yield characters. Diameter of flower was found to increase with the treatment of sugar industry effluent and maximum increase was recorded as 7.49 percent in T3 treatment. Maximum increase in the length of anther was noted as 23.53 per cent in T3 treatment. Pollen fertility was almost unaffected with the treatment of sugar industry effluent a little increase of 3.47 per cent was recorded in T2 treatment. Number of flowers per inflorescence was also found to increase and maximum increase was recorded in T3 treatment and it was 15.69 per cent as compared to control. Number of inflorescences per plant was also affected with the treatment of sugar industry effluent and T3 treatment where plant received 60 per cent concentration of sugar industry effluent showed maximum increase of 22.07 per cent as compared to control. Number of fruits per inflorescence was found to increase with the increase of concentration of sugar industry effluent and maximum increase was recorded in T3 treatment and it was 28.89 per cent as compared to control. Diameter of fruit was found to increase and maximum increase was noted as 22.13 per cent over control in T3 treatment. Number of seeds per fruit and average weight of the fruit were also found to increase with the increase of sugar industry effluent up to 60 per cent and maximum increase was recorded as 29.66 per cent and 53.71 per cent respectively, over control. Fruit productivity per plant was found to be affected by the treatment of sugar industry effluent and maximum increase of 98.16 per cent was recorded in T3 treatment. It was observed that T3 treatment where plants were irrigated with 60 per cent concentration of sugar industry effluent was to found to enhance the maximum in almost all the yield parameters taken in to consideration. It is concluded that the concentration up to 60 per cent favours the yield characteristics of Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. Var. S-22. The concentration above 60 per cent showed toxic effect on almost all the yield parameter including fruit productivity of tomato crop.

Short communication | Published online : 26-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 150–154
Vaibhav Saraswat*1 and Manoj Kumar Yadav2
1-2 Department of Botany, Samrat Prithviraj Chouhan Government College, Ajmer - 305 001, Rajasthan, India
Abstract
Assessment of environmental impact and sustainable index of gypsum mining activity in Nagaur district of Rajasthan is discussed in this paper. Mining is one of the important activities for the economic growth of a country. It also provides valuable minerals for fulfilling fundamental human needs. Mining is considered as a negative activity from the environment point of view but as it is necessary and cannot be stop. Therefore, a rigorous assessment is required to evaluate the impact of mining on environment. In this case study, the assessment of impact of gypsum mining on the environment were assessed by rapid impact assessment matrix (RIAM). Result of this study revealed both negative and positive effects. Negative impacts were observed on physical, chemical, ecological, biological, sociological and cultural component of environment while positive impact was assessed on economic operational component. The sustainable index of gypsum mining activity in Nagaur district were also assessed and sustainable index was found -0.05 which shows that present mining activities are not sustainable. The present study also suggested that some new guidelines may be introduced to achieve sustainable development goals.

Research Article | Published online : 27-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 155–158
Uttam Kumar Kanp*1
Department of Botany, Narajole Raj College, Narajole, Paschim Medinipur - 721 211, West Bengal, India
Abstract
Pretreatment of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L. cv. MRSF-1051) seeds with rhizome extract of mango ginger (Curcuma amada Roxb.) and leaf extracts of basil (Ocimum sanctum L.) and lemon (Citrus media L.) revealed that all the plant extracts significantly reduced the loss of germinability under accelerated ageing condition (99.5% RH, 30 ± 2°C) during 0, 15, 30 and 45 days. TTC (2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride) stainability gradually decreased in seeds which underwent accelerated ageing, and partial alleviation in loss of stainability was noted in the seed samples pretreated with the plant extracts. The plant extract-induced changes of percentage seed germination and TTC staining were associated with a proportional shift in germinating seed metabolism. Substantial increase of amino acids and soluble carbohydrates in seed leachates with the progress of seed ageing was considerably checked by plant extracts. The plant extracts also more or less arrested the rapid loss of protein and RNA as well as the activities of dehydrogenase and catalase enzymes in seed kernels during the process of accelerated ageing. The beneficial effect of the plant extracts, particularly rhizome extract of mango ginger, on prolongation of seed viability of sunflower under accelerated ageing condition is discussed.

Research Article | Published online : 28-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 159–161
Daisy Sharma1, Chandana Choudhary Baruah2, Pameena Narzary3 and Manash Pratim Sarma4
1,3 Department of Food Nutrition and Dietetics, Assam down town University, Guwahati - 781 026, Assam, India 2 Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat - 785 013, Assam, India 4 Department of Biotechnology, Assam down town University, Guwahati - 781 026, Assam, India
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the vitamin mineral and dietary fiber composition of Musa balbasiana seeds and flowers. Musa balbasiana is a highly nutritious and affordable fruit grown in India, particularly in Assam, although it is largely ignored and underutilized due to the seeds. As a result, the current research aimed to determine the nutritional composition of and flowers. Standard techniques were used for the analysis of the micronutrient content and fibre content. Both samples indicated presence of different vitamins and minerals. Iron content of Musa balbasiana seeds is 3.09mg/100g and calcium content of 218.33 mg/100gm which indicates it has a very good amount of iron and calcium. Both the samples also had zinc in it. B-Vitamins were also found in both the samples and it also had an excellent content of dietary fibre.

Research Article | Published online : 29-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 162–166
Valarmathi R*1, T. Pratheeba2 and D. Natarajan3
1 Department of Biotechnology, Padmavani Arts and Science College for Women, Salem - 636 011, Tamil Nadu, India 2-3 Department of Biotechnology, Periyar University, Salem - 636 011, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
In this present study, to identify the active phytocomponents present in methanolic extracts of D. hirtipes by using column fractionation and identification of homogenous and heterogenous spots using TLC analysis of D. hirtipes. In FTIR, to identify the presence of functional group depends upon the active components present in the methanolic extract of D. hirtipes. Leaves of D. hirtipes was extracted with various organic solvents (Hexane, Ethyl acetate and Methanol) using Soxhlet apparatus. Phytochemical analysis was carried out with standard Protocols. Different Fractions were separated from methanolic extract of D. hirtipes by column chromatography and followed by thin layer chromatographic studies indicated that the leaf of D. hirtipes contains secondary metabolites and identify the spots with different Rf values and FTIR Analysis to find out the presence of functional groups with their characteristic peaks. The methanolic leaf extracts of D. hirtipes was found to be rich in phytochemicals like glycosides, steroids, alkaloids, phenols, terpenes, flavanoids and tannins. TLC was carried out with different solvent systems and identified the presence of Phenolic compounds. In FTIR analysis, showed the presence of groups namely alcohols, phenols, alkanes, alkenes, esters, and amine groups. The results obtained in this present study indicated in D. hirtipes contain more phytoconstituents and this provides more therapeutic information in future.

Research Article | Published online : 31-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 167–172
Sharmila Baburam1, Gnanendra Shanmugam2 and Maghimaa Mathanmohun*3
1,3 Department of Microbiology, Muthayammal College of Arts and Science, Rasipuram - 637 408, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, India 2 Department of Biotechnology, Vivekanandha College of Arts and Sciences for Women (Autonomous), Elayampalyam, Tiruchengode - 637 205, Tamil Nadu
Abstract
As Pseudomonas aeruginosa continues to acquire antibiotic resistance, it has emerged as a significant human opportunistic pathogen. It also existed as one of the most prevalent and deadly organisms that cause ventilator-associated pneumonia in incubated patients, with directly attributable mortality reaching 38%. Multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa infections are becoming increasingly common, and conventional cystic fibrosis antimicrobial therapies are inadequate to eliminate P. aeruginosa infections. As a result, different strategies for combating P. aeruginosa have gained a lot of attention. Thus, in this current work, P. aeruginosa isolates from clinical samples were characterized by using standard methods. Out of 52 isolated strains, 15 Multidrug-resistant strains were screened by assessing their antibiogram pattern. P. aeruginosa employs a cell-cell signaling system referred to as quorum sensing (QS) to control the expression of several virulent genes. As P. aeruginosa develops antibiotic resistance, the quorum sensing enhanced transcriptional regulator LasR is considered a viable alternative target. Thus, the present study was carried out to explore the prevalence of MDR strains of P. aeruginosa.

Research Article | Published online : 31-Jan-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 173–175
Suman Mukherjee*1 and Lipika Medda2
1 Parasitology and Immunobiology Laboratory, Post Graduate Department of Zoology, Bidhannagar College, EB-2, Sector-1, Salt Lake City, Kolkata-700 064, West Bengal, India 2 Department of Zoology, East Calcutta Girls’ College, 237 Lake Town link Road, Block B, Lake Town - 700 089, West Bengal, India
Abstract
The catfish (Heteropneustes fossilis) has been known to be the most popular fish in the tropical countries as well as in the Indian subcontinent. It is a good source of protein where malnutrition is a major problem. A total of 150 Heteropneustes fossilis collected from local market of Kolkata, West Bengal, India during specific time period in a year and were investigated for parasitic infestation. Out of the fish samples analyses and examined for endoparasites, trematode, nematode and acanthocephalans accounted as the most invasive parasites. The highest prevalence (90%) and index of infection (14.4) were recorded during the time interval of November-December. Parasite infection and diseases are some of the factors hindering high productivity in fish. Fish parasites result in huge economic losses as they increase mortality causing reduction in growth rate and possibly weight loss during and after the period of parasitic diseases outbreak. The parasitic infection of fish results in economic losses due to not only mortality, but also treatment cost, decrease in growth that reduces the expansion of aquaculture. Enhanced concern in fish farming showed consciousness of parasites that infest fish health, growth and survival.

Short communication | Published online : 01-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 176–181
Hari Raghu Kumar*1, Rizwan Ali Ansari2, Safiuddin Ansari3, Rose Rizvi4, Aisha Sumbul5 and Irshad Mahmood6
1-6 Lab No. 52, Plant Pathology Section, Department of Botany, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh - 202 002, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
Plant-parasitic nematodes are pest that antagonistically influences the production from one side of the planet to the other, principally in India. Meloidogyne incognita is one of which antagonistically influences Vigna radiata. Consequently, the destinations of this experiment were to decide the viability of nematode pervasion upon the V. radiata and to screen out the safe and defenseless genotypes of V. radiata. For this study, seeds of fifteen genotypes were shown in clay pots, with uninoculated (healthy) and inoculated (2000 J2s of M. incognita) sets. Every arrangement was watered and kept up with until the end of the experiment. Out of fifteen genotypes of V. radiata none of them were found immune to the M. incognita pervasion, however, PDM-139 was observed highly resistant with 1.92 number of galls development. Nine were moderately resistant, three were respectably moderately susceptible and just one was highly susceptible with 103.30 quantities of galls development. It was found that highly resistant showed the higher growth and yield.

Research Article | Published online : 01-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 182–186
G. Tamilselvi*1, G. Gayathri2, V. Sandhya3, V. Sakthivel4 and T. Balakrishnan5
1-5 Department of Agricultural Extension, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The present study was taken up in ten selected villages in Alanganallur block of Madurai district of Tamil Nadu. A fixed sample size of 120 respondents was selected by proportionate random sampling technique. The data were collected from the respondents with the help of a well-structured and pre-tested interview schedule. Majority of respondents were found to have medium extent of utilization of Uzhavan app and they were frequently using the services provided by Uzhavan app. The extent of utilization of various services under Uhavan app viz., Information on subsidy schemes, Crop insurance, Fertilizer stock, Seed stock production, Market prices, Farm guide, Agricultural news and Pest and Disease monitoring were frequently used by the farmers in Uzhavan app. The services rarely used by the users were Benefit registration, Custom hiring centers, Weather forecast, Visit of AAO/AHO, Information on organic products, Information on FPO products, Information on reservoir levels and feedback. The services which never used by majority of the farmers were Benefit registration, Weather forecast, Information on reservoir levels and Feedback was studied among the beneficiaries.

Research Article | Published online : 02-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 187–191
Paramita Saha¹, Mashud Ahmed*² and Manuj Baruah³
1-3 Department of Economics, Tripura University, Suryamaninagar, Agartala - 799 022, Tripura, India
Abstract
A change in climate can have effects on crop yields and crop production areas across agro-ecological regions both due to temperature rise and changes in water availability. The primary objective of this study is to analyze the impact of climate change on cropping pattern in the Dima Hasao (North Cachar Hills) district of Assam. The study examines the trends of both climatic variables and key crops production area in the district for the period of 1981-2017. Non-parametric Mann-Kendall test has been employed to detect statistically significant trends and Sen’s Slope test to find magnitudes of trends. The fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) regression technique is applied to detect the impact of climatic variables on cropping pattern in the district. It has been observed that among climate variables temperature maximum (°C) is showing a negative trend whereas temperature minimum (°C) and rainfall (mm) are showing a positive trend. But rainfall has only significant trend at 5% level of significance. Area under production of rice, maize, rapeseed and mustard and potato are showing a significant positive trend. The study finds that area under different crops have different association with climate variables. However, only rainfall has shown a significant positive impact on the area of cultivation under maize, rapeseed and mustard and potato over the period of time whereas temperature maximum and minimum does not show any significant impact.

Research Article | Published online : 02-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 192–197
T. A. K. Mumtaz Begum*1 and V. Ramamurthy2
PG and Research Department of Biochemistry, Marudupandiyar College (Affiliated to the Bharathidasan University), Thanjavur - 613 403, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Hulled barley grains powder (HBGP) contains high amounts of fiber and bioactive phytochemicals that exhibit lipid-lowering effects. The objective of this study was to provide scientific proof for the hypolipidemic activity of HBGP. Male Sprague Dawley rats were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 14 weeks to induce Hyperlipidemia. The rats in groups 1 and 2 were fed a standard diet. Group 3 and 4 rats were fed HFD for 14 weeks. From the third week onwards, Group 2 and 4 rats received 50% of HBGP mixed in the feed, in addition to 50% of the normal and HFD diets. The rats were euthanized after 14 weeks, and plasma lipids, lipid peroxides, lipid metabolizing enzyme activity, and endogenous antioxidants were determined. HFD treatment significantly increased body mass index (BMI), blood lipids, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), lipid peroxides, HMG CoA reductase, and fatty acid synthase activity. HFD+HBGP fed rats showed a significant decrease in BMI, blood lipids, HMG CoA reductase, fatty acid synthase with an increase in antioxidants and lipoprotein lipase enzyme activity. Visceral adipocytes in group 3 rats increased in cell size with hypertrophy when compared to HBGP co-administered rats. The results of this study show that HBGP probably acts as a hypolipidemic agent by modulating the activities of HMG CoA reductase and fatty acid synthase in the liver.

Research Article | Published online : 03-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 198–203
V. P. Vipitha*1
1 Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram -695 522, Kerala, India
Abstract
A field experiment was conducted at the Instructional farm, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala, India during 2013 to 2015, to study the effect of methods of planting, weed and nutrient management on rice (Oryza sativa L.) and its effect on the succeeding cassava (Manihot esculenta L.) intercropped with groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) in uplands. The experiment was laid out in split plot design, comprising three main plots having methods of planting [broadcasting of sprouted seeds, dibbling (sprouted seeds with drum seeder along with weeding by power weeder) and dibbling (sprouted seeds with drum seeder along with stubble mulching)] and five sub plots with methods of nutrient application [broadcasting (60-30-30 kg NPK/ha), band placement (60-30-30 kg NPK/ha), foliar spray of complex foliar fertilizer 19-19-19 @ 0.5%, foliar spray of diammonium phosphate (DAP) and sulphate of potash (SOP) each @ 2%, control] with five replications. For cassava intercropped with groundnut and cowpea recommended dose of fertilizer along with 0.5 % foliar spray of 19-19-19 was applied at 30 and 14 days interval respectively. The results revealed that the yield of succeeding crops as well as rice equivalent yield of the cropping system (29.71 t/ha) was significantly increased by the method of planting of rice using drum seeder + stubble mulching @ 3 t/ha along with either broadcasting of 60-30-30kg NPK/ha or foliar spray of diammonium phosphate (DAP) and sulphate of potash (SOP) each @ 2% applied to rice. Direct and residual effect of stubble mulching @ 3 t/ha as well as power weeding along with either soil application of 60-30-30 kg NPK/ha as broadcasting to rice or foliar spray of DAP and SOP each @ 2% to rice was found to be the energy efficient and sustainable rice-based cropping system in upland.

Research Article | Published online : 03-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 204–207
J. Singh*1 and M. P. Verma2
1 Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering and Technology, Madhyanchal Professional University, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
Abstract
This study investigated the combined effects of irrigation methods and plastic mulches on yield, water-use efficiency and economic return of watermelon. The treatments of the study comprised different combinations of three irrigation methods viz., Irrigation in furrows at 100% of CPE (I1), Irrigation in alternate furrows at 80% of CPE (I2) and drip irrigation with fertigation system at 80% of CPE (I3); and five mulches viz., without mulching (M0), mulching with black polythene of 80 micron thickness (M1), mulching with black polythene of 50 micron thickness (M2), mulching with white polythene of 80 micron thickness (M3) and mulching with white polythene of 50 micron thickness (M4). The highest fruit yield (3321.31 q ha-1), WUE (3953.94 kg ha-1 cm-1), net returns (`2246111 ha-1), B:C ratio (9.17) and water productivity (`26739 mm-1) of watermelon was obtained when irrigation water applied through drip irrigation with fertigation + mulching with white polythene of 50-micron thickness (I3M4). The study thus reveals that drip irrigation with white polythene mulch has an explicit role in increasing the land and water productivity of watermelon during summer season.

Research Article | Published online : 04-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 208–210
Rachana V. Nair1-2, R. Manikandan3, Maghimaa Mathanmohun4 and S. Selvakumar*5
1,5 Department of Microbiology, The Kavery Arts and Science College for Women, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India 2 Department of Microbiology, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India 3 Department of Biotechnology, Padmavani Arts and Science College for Women, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India 4 Department of Microbiology, Muthayammal College of Arts and Science, Rasipuram, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu
Abstract
Penicillin is regularly used in food animal production for the prevention of diseases in husbandry, which is a major source of penicillin contamination in the environment. The current study aimed to isolate, screen, and optimize penicillin degrading bacteria from poultry manure, municipal waste, and industrial wastes. Four bacterial strains ARB1, RPMB1, KPRB1, and TMRB2 were screened. Among the four isolated bacterial strains, ARB1 and RPMB1 bacterial strains have the highest sensitivity to penicillin. In addition, ARB1and RPMB1 bacterial strains had a great performance in penicillin degradation when the penicillin concentrations were 50 and 100mg/L. These results indicated that the isolated ARB1 and RPMB1 bacterial strains are effective in degrading penicillin and can be used for bioremediation of antibiotic contaminated soil. In the future research is required to confirm the performance of isolated ARB1 and RPMB1 bacterial strains in field conditions.

Research Article | Published online : 07-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 208–210
Rachana V. Nair1-2, R. Manikandan3, Maghimaa Mathanmohun4 and S. Selvakumar*5
1,5 Department of Microbiology, The Kavery Arts and Science College for Women, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India 2 Department of Microbiology, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India 3 Department of Biotechnology, Padmavani Arts and Science College for Women, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India 4 Department of Microbiology, Muthayammal College of Arts and Science, Rasipuram, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu
Abstract
Penicillin is regularly used in food animal production for the prevention of diseases in husbandry, which is a major source of penicillin contamination in the environment. The current study aimed to isolate, screen, and optimize penicillin degrading bacteria from poultry manure, municipal waste, and industrial wastes. Four bacterial strains ARB1, RPMB1, KPRB1, and TMRB2 were screened. Among the four isolated bacterial strains, ARB1 and RPMB1 bacterial strains have the highest sensitivity to penicillin. In addition, ARB1and RPMB1 bacterial strains had a great performance in penicillin degradation when the penicillin concentrations were 50 and 100mg/L. These results indicated that the isolated ARB1 and RPMB1 bacterial strains are effective in degrading penicillin and can be used for bioremediation of antibiotic contaminated soil. In the future research is required to confirm the performance of isolated ARB1 and RPMB1 bacterial strains in field conditions.

Research Article | Published online : 05-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 211–213
Priya P. Menon*1 and V. V. Radhakrishnan2
1 Department of Statistics, Maharaja’s College, Ernakulam, Kochi - 682 011, Kerala, India 2 Department of Botany, University of Calicut, Thenhipalam - 673 635, Kerala, India
Abstract
A study was undertaken to develop a model for forecasting the yield in cardamom plantations. Eleven biometrical characters namely leaves per tiller, tiller height, vegetative buds per clump, bearing tillers per clump, tillers per clump, capsules per raceme, racemes per panicle, panicles per clump, panicle length, seeds per capsule and internodal length were recorded from the plants. The actual yield (Y) of individual plants was also recorded and used as the dependent variable for analysis. Principal component regression analysis was used for estimating the regression coefficients instead of regressing the independent variables. The yield forecasting model developed using principal component regression exhibited a precision of about 87.6% precision.

Research Article | Published online : 07-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 214–217
Ajay Kumar Gautam*1 and Abdullah2
1-2 Department of Botany, Shibli National College, Azamgarh - 276 001, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
The pristine waters of District Azamgarh (U.P) are showing signs of deterioration due to several reasons. The present study researches the causes of deteriorating water quality in the Taal Salona, one of the main lentic water bodies of district Azamgarh. There are several thousand people are depending on the Taal Salona for livelihood. This water body is affected by anthropogenic activities. A total of 12 water quality parameters were analyzed over a period of two years during month June 2019- June 2021. Water sampling was done at 6 different sites along the length of the Taal. This fresh water body is connected with River Ghaghara through canal. It was observed that water quality degraded during the months of January and April that coincides with the peaks of agricultural activities. Total phosphorus, orthophosphate phosphorus, nitrate-nitrogen, ammoniacal nitrogen showed higher concentrations in the month of October-January-April while the DO decreased in the same time slightly, resulting in degradation of water quality. In addition to this, the extensive use of fertilizers and pesticides in the agriculture is also responsible for the degrading water quality of Taal Salona.

Research Article | Published online : 08-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 218–221
S. Durairaj*1 and M. Natarajan2
1 Department of Agricultural Extension, Annamalai University, Annamlainagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Sustainable sugarcane initiative (SSI) is an approach to the cultivation of sugarcane that can reduce inputs - water, chemical fertilizers, seed material and farm space - while improving sugarcane production significantly. It also reduces crop duration and provides a longer period of the cane crushing season to the sugar industry. The study was concerned with the adoption of improved practices, which was a major concern to increase sugarcane production and to save the sugar industries of the country as well as to develop the sugar/gur sector, a promising rural industry. The respondents of the study area where the registered sugarcane growers of three sugar factories located in the Cuddalore District of Tamil Nadu namely MRK Co-Op Sugar mill, EID Parry Sugars (P) Ltd. and Ambiga Sugars (P) Ltd. The 240 respondents were selected based on the proportionate random sampling method. The data were collected by a pre-well-structured interview schedule and results were analysed with appropriate statistical tools.

Short communication | Published online : 09-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 222–224
S. Kamalakannan*1, S. Meena2, S. Madhavan3, J. Nambi4, S. Kumar5 and R. Sudhagar6
1 Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The experiment was conducted by using different organic inputs viz., farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost, poultry manure, seaweed extract, effective microorganisms (EM) and panchagavya along with recommended dose of fertilizes (RDF). It was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 10 treatments each having three replications. The results of the present investigation revealed that the application of FYM @ 10 kg pit-1 plus PM @ 0.52 kg pit-1 (equivalent to N in RDF) plus EM 1: 100 dilution plus seaweed extract @ 7 ml/ lit of water has recorded the maximum positive response for growth characters like vine length, number of nodes plant-1, number of primary branches vine-1, number of secondary branches vine-1, leaf area and dry matter production.

Research Article | Published online : 10-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 225–230
M. K. Drishya1 and S. Binu Kumari*2
1-2 P.G. and Research Department of Zoology, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, G. N. Mills Post, Coimbatore - 641 029, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Haematological parameter is the best strategy for the evaluation of the effects of poison in fish from the aquatic environment, which is showed in the blood. The present study focused on the changes evoked by industrial effluents on the haematological parameters (RBC, Hb, PCV, MCV, MCH and MCHC) of fishes, Etroplus suratensis and Lutjanus arjentimaculatus. Fishes were collected from the river Kuyyali during three seasons (summer, winter and rainy) from five different study sites (Kunduchira, Chungam, Eranjoli, Kuyyali and Koduvally) and blood was collected for the study. The statistical analysis of the data reveals that industrial effluents induced significant variations in haematological parameters of the fishes, Etroplus suratensis and Lutjanus arjentimaculatus. Significant decrease in red blood cell, haemoglobin, packed cell volume, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and increase in white blood cell (WBC) were observed as compared to control. The consequences of haematological indices shows that fishes in Kuyyali river are under strain which might be as a consequence of effect of industrial pollution.

Research Article | Published online : 11-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 231–234
Sanjay Dey*1,2 and Ashis Kumar Panigrahi2
1 Department of Zoology, Ananda Mohan College, Kolkata - 700 009, West Bengal, India 2 Eco- toxicology, Fisheries and Aquaculture Extension Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Nadia - 741 235, West Bengal, India
Abstract
Various industries water seriously affect river water as it directly falls in the river. WHO indicates that the effects of pollution are an indicator of the quality of water. Water quality indicates that river water is deteriorated by many organic contaminants. Domestic wastes, irrigation are other causes of river pollution. West Bengal has many rivers. Bhagirathi Hooghly is a prime river. Some important rivers are Teesta, Damodar, Rupnarayan, Ajay, Mayurakshi. Periodic evaluation of water quality is necessary for improving water. To maintain water quality, monitoring programs must be essential. The Pollution status of water is mainly measured by WQI. This paper shows the water quality parameters of Rivers in West Bengal.

Research Article | Published online : 12-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 235–236
Perwez Qureshi*1 and Reshma Jaweria2
1 Department of Microbiology, Dr. Rafiq Zakaria campus, Maulana Azad college of Arts, Science and Commerce, Aurangabad - 431 001, Maharashtra, India 2 Department of Biotechnology, Dr. Rafiq Zakaria campus, Maulana Azad college of Arts, Science and Commerce, Aurangabad - 431 001, Maharashtra, India
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) was first identified in Viet Nam on February 28, 2003. SARS is a respiratory disease caused by a virus known as Corona virus which badly affects the respiratory system of the human being causing severe pneumonia. Corona virus got its name due to their crown-like projections. It is basically an air-borne virus which can spread with the help of saliva droplets which are released during cough and sneeze. It can spread through direct or indirect contact. In 2019, it again emerged and this time it was named as SARS-CoV-2 or Covid-19. It played a havoc with the human life as it is highly transmissible and pathogenic. WHO declared it as pandemic in March 2019.

Short communication | Published online : 14-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 237–239
Mayukh Sarker*1
1 Department of Zoology, APC Roy Government College, Himanchal Vihar, Matigara, Darjeeling - 734 010, West Bengal, India
Abstract
The major pest of tea, Buzura suppressaria (looper caterpillar) mostly defoliates the young and maturing leaves of the full-grown tea bushes of Darjeeling foothills areas. Clonal variety like TV26 was preferred as food over TV1 and TV18 variety. Comparison of the host preference between tea leaves and shade trees was evaluated in early instar loopers. The life cycle traits and performance were also assessed of the loopers reared on TV26 leaves. The survivorship curves were studied and showing about 26% adult emergence. Values of production index and a maintenance cost were also studied in IVth and Vth instar larvae. Chemical analysis of the body mass of Vth instar larva showed that the formation of higher quantity of nitrogen and lipid but a low amount of ash and moisture. So, this study might be helpful in designing the artificial diet for controlling this pest species both conventional and non-conventional methods.

Research Article | Published online : 15-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 240–245
Anshu Kumar Singh1 and Shailesh Solanki*2
1 Department of Microbiology, Research and Innovation Centre, Noida, International University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India 2 Department of Microbiology, Research and Innovation Centre, Noida International University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
Today’s treatment of diseases is highly costly due to the advancement of techniques along with the problem as most of the drugs produced in the pharmaceutical industry are on large scale at a high cost. Conventionally, many people cannot afford allopathic drugs and eventually suffer from harmful diseases that lead to their death. Second, allopathic drugs also have various adverse health effects that can lead to other infectious diseases occurrences in parallel with the current disease. Hence, various plants and their beneficial active compound scan can be used to treat various bacterial diseases, with low-cost availability, and problems like adverse reactions and bacterial drug resistance can be avoided. The present study represents latex of Carica papaya showing good and potential antibacterial activity against S. aureus, S. pyogens, S. typhi and P. aeruginosa. The most harmful and disease- causing bacteria have been shown to be affected by these plants. The active components of papaya latex have high effective antimicrobial activity. But this antibacterial property has been shown to vary to a great extent when compared to the latex of papaya collected from various different geographical locations. The latex of Papaya has antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which are highly beneficial for any kind of bacterial as well as fungal disease. Therefore, papaya latex is used to treat various superficial mycosis and bacterial infections. This research comparative study is carried out by collecting the C. papaya latex sample from Udaipur (Rajasthan), Manipur, Nainital (Uttarakhand) & Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh).

Research Article | Published online : 16-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 246–252
Modala Mallesh*1 and Ch. Sravanthy2
1-2 Environmental Biology Lab, Department of Zoology, Kakatiya University, Warangal - 506 009, Telangana, India
Abstract
The study was carried out to investigate ‘Seasonal diversity and abundance of Predatory coccinellids or ladybird beetles of Bt and non-Bt cotton fields of Nalgonda District, Telangana State, India’. Sample was collected by sweep net and hand-picking on Bt and non-Bt cotton fields. During study period (2018-2019 and 2019-2020) we observed three species of coccinellids in Bt cotton field, four species of coccinellids in non-Bt cotton field during 2018-2019 cotton cropping season. During 2019-2020 cotton cropping season, four species in Bt cotton field, four species in non-Bt cotton field were observed. The species Brumoides suturalis (Three-stripped lady birdbeetle), Cheilomenes sexmaculata (Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle), Coccinella transverslis (Transverse ladybird beetle) were recorded in both Bt and non-Bt cotton fields during 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 cotton cropping seasons. The species Propylea dessecta (Spotless ladybird beetle) was observed in non-Bt cotton fields only during 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 cotton cropping seasons. The species Coccinella octomaculata (Eight-spotted lady bird beetle) was observed in Bt cotton field only during 2019-2020 cotton cropping season. In September there were a large number of coccinellids in Bt and non-Bt cotton fields. However, coccinellids were observed from August to December during 2018-2019 cotton season and from August to January during 2019-2020 cotton season. Various ecological indexes were measured.

Research Article | Published online : 17-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 253–256
B. Meena1, K. Durgadevi2 and V. Ramamurthy*3
1-3 P. G. & Research Department of Biochemistry, Marudupandiyar College, Thanjavur - 613 403, Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The present study was designed to evaluate the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory potential of three different extract of Cymodocea serrulata. The extract of the seagrass was tested against Streptococcus bovis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Chlamydia pneumoniae and Helicobacter pylori by agar method. The anti-inflammatory activity of C. serrulata was done by protein denaturation method. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of carbohydrates, reducing sugars, alkaloids, saponins, phenolic compounds and flavonoids in aqueous seagrass extract. The results of the present study conclude that the studied plant possesses broad-spectrum antibacterial and antioxidant properties and may act as a potent antioxidant for biological systems susceptible to free radical-mediated reactions.

Research Article | Published online : 18-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 257–259
Smitha S*1. and I. S. Katageri2
1 Department of Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vijayapura - 586 102, Karnataka, India 2 Professor of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Editor, Publication center, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad - 580 005, Karnataka, India
Abstract
The use of genetically modified (Bt) crops expressing lepidopteron-specific Cry proteins derived from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis is an effective method to control the polyphagous pest Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner). As H. armigera potentially develops resistance to Cry proteins, Bt crops should be regarded as a tool in integrated pest management. The F2 population derived from the cross Super Annigeri-1 and cry1Ac event (BS 100B) were subjected to chi-square test for inheritance study of cry1Ac gene which was found significant to accept 3:1 Mendelian ratio. Hence, the observed ratios are in good fit with the expected Mendelian ratio of 3 cry1Ac positive: 1cry1Ac negative. These results confirmed that Event-1, BS 100B is having a single copy of cry1Ac gene and significant chi-square test for 3: 1 ratio for cry1Ac gene in F2 indicates the presence of single copy of a gene which will be useful in transferring to Super Annigeri-1, a wilt resistance gene through backcross breeding easily.

Research Article | Published online : 19-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 260–265
S. Jenita Gnana Mary1, R. Bharathidasan2 and V. Ramamurthy*3
1 P. G. and Research Department of Microbiology, Marudupandiyar College, Thanjavur - 613 403, Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India 2 P. G. and Research Department of Biochemistry, Marudupandiyar College, Thanjavur - 613 403, Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Seagrasses have a long history of being used for a variety of remedial purposes, such as treatment of fever, skin diseases, muscle pains, wounds and stomach problems. Hence it is essential to study their bioactive metabolites and medicinal properties when considering their food applications. The present study was designed to evaluate the antioxidant potential of different extract of Halodule pinifolia. The free radical scavenging activities of the seagrass were evaluated by various in vitro methods. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of carbohydrates, reducing sugars, alkaloids, saponins, phenolic compounds and flavonoids in aqueous seagrass extract. The antioxidant activity determination revealed that at 100 µg/ml, that seagrass extract had the highest antioxidant activity on DPPH free radicals. This study suggests that H. pinifolia extracts exhibit great potential for antioxidant activity and may be useful for their nutritional and medicinal functions.

Research Article | Published online : 21-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 266–271
Ganesan S1 and Rajakumar R.*2
1-4 Post Graduate and Research Department of Biotechnology, Marudupandiyar College, Thanjavur - 613 403, Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Medicinal plants are widely used in management of diseases all over the world. Large number of plants belonging to different families has been studied for their therapeutic properties. In the present study is aimed to investigate the phytochemical and antibacterial activity of methanolic leaves extract of Tinospora cordifolia and Terminalia chebula. The GC-MS analysis was carried out in methanol leaves extract of T. chebula and T. cordifolia. GC-MS analysis revealed the occurrence of 26 compound in T. chebula and 30 compounds in T. cordifolia. In the present study, antibacterial activity of methanol leaves extracts of T. cordifolia and T. chebula were tested against important human pathogens including Gram positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Among the plants, extract of T. cordifolia exhibited better results than T. chebula. From this study, methanolic leaves extract of T. cordifolia and T. chebula were showed promising DPPH scavenging activity. In the present study reported that the good sources of phytocompound from these experimental plants.

Research Article | Published online : 22-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 272–274
P. Ramesh*1, P. Vaishnavi2 and V. Sakthivel3
1-3 Department of Agricultural Extension, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Women's empowerment is a combination of policies and practices aimed at increasing women's and communities' autonomy and self-determination, allowing them to represent their own interests in a responsible and self-determined manner. A woman who is actively involved in a SHG, who is aware of her own strengths and isn't afraid to use them. The present study was conducted in Cuddalore Block of Cuddalore District. The sampling procedure applied was Proportionate random sampling with 120 respondents were selected from six villages namely Kudikadu, Pathirikuppam, Pachayankuppam, Gunduuppalavadi, Kondur, Thiruvandipuram. They were part of Mahalir Thittam project's women Self Help Groups, which were organized by Tamil Nadu Corporation for Women's Development (TNCDW). The Overall political empowerment of women SHG members results that, nearly half of the respondents (54.17 per cent) had medium level followed by 26.66 per cent of the high level followed by 19.17 per cent had low level of political empowerment. Majority of the members of SHG (58.33 per cent) reported that awareness of human rights as their most important measure in political empowerment followed by strong decision-making power was noticed by (51.66 per cent) and 45.83 per cent of the SHG members expressed as they had more awareness of legislation for women. The profile of Mahalir Thittam women members revealed political features, according to the conclusions of the study. The political empowerment of women Self Help Group members has received a lot of attention.

Research Article | Published online : 22-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 275–279
Susan Jose1, D. Delilah2, Namita Mary Mathew3, Anto Joseph4 and Shyam Kumar S*5
1-4 Post Graduate and Research, Department of Botany, Maharaja’s College, Ernakulam - 682 011, Kerala, India 5 Post Graduate and Research, Department of Botany, Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram - 695 014, Kerala, India
Abstract
The past decades have witnessed rapid boom in technological advancements posing a serious concern over the safety of the environment. The incessant and careless discharge of wastewater from various industries and urbanization has steadily degraded the natural resources. The heavy metals can persist and bioaccumulate in the environment. Thus, the removal of heavy metals from the environment is of prime importance. The physical and chemical methods of wastewater treatment are less preferred because of high capital cost and generation of secondary waste. The wastewater treatment using algae is known as phycoremediation. The most promising attribute of the microalgae-based treatment is the production of algal biomass. The algal biomass has myriad of applications in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and fuel industries. Thus, the development of zero carbon footprint fuel will lessen the demand on the very scarce stock of fossil fuel, thereby promoting ecological and sustainable balance of the environment. The ability to sequester metal ions makes green algae a promising candidate for wastewater treatment. This review aims to report the potential green microalgae used in remediation of the heavy metals mainly cadmium, chromium and copper. Furthermore, strategies to enhance the heavy metal removal efficiency have also been discussed.

Case Study | Published online : 23-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 280–285
Rama Kant Singh*1, Rabindra K. Jalaj2, Pankaj Kumar3 and Ratan Kumar4
1-2,4 Krishi Vigyan Kendra (Bihar Agricultural University), Bikramganj, Rohtas - 802 212, Bihar, India 3 Krishi Vigyan Kendra (Bihar Agricultural University), Katihar - 854 105, Bihar, India
Abstract
Field trial were conducted at 10 farmers field by Krishi Vigyan Kendra Katihar during the year 2018 and 2019 to assess the effect of INM practices on performance of early Cauliflower var. Sabour agrim as well as their residual effects on soil properties. The treatments comprised with RDF and RDF + 20 t/ha FYM + 20 kg/ha Borex with sodium molybdate @ 2 kg/ha alone and in combination. The control treatment (NPK @ 180: 40: 20 kg/ha) was also followed by farmers. There were quadratic responses in growth and yield attributes of early cauliflower by application of boron and molybdenum with RDF in combination of FYM. Significant linear positive correlations between curd yield and growth attributes were found. Among the various treatments, the combined application of borax 20 kg/ha and sodium molybdate 2 kg/ha as soil application in combination of recommended dose of NPK @ 120: 60:60 kg/ha (T3) gave the maximum height of the plant, length of leaf, width of leaf, total weight of plant, width of curd, average weight of curd, curd yield, economics. Positive correlation was obtained between soil nutrient and curd yield.

Research Article | Published online : 23-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 286–290
K. L. Prakash*1, V. Kavya2, K. B. Ashwini3 and P. Ravikumar4
1-4 Department of Environmental Sciences, Bangalore University, Bangalore - 560 056, Karnataka, India
Abstract
An effort has made to study the ground water quality around the natural tanks of Lakshmisagara, Narsapura, Doddavallabhi and Singehalli in Kolar taluk as these tanks were filled by treated waste water from KC valley project. A total of 39 groundwater samples were collected randomly and were analyzed for ground water characteristics of pH, EC, TDS, TA, TH, major cations and anions like Ca, Mg, Na, K, Cl, F, SO4, PO4, NO3 and, irrigational water quality parameters of SAR, RSC, %Na and PI and Water quality index (WQI) as per Standard Methods. The Iso-concentration of WQI map has been generated, WQI values revealed that 64% of the samples were categorized as good water, 2.5% of the samples as excellent and 33% of the samples as poor water class can be used for irrigation, and treatment is essential for the drinking. The groundwater falls under poor category may be due to the percolation of contaminants from the water bodies and fertilizers leaching from agricultural areas. These samples should be consumed after the treatment and groundwater can be used for the irrigation. It is suggested for continuous monitoring to track the seasonal changes in groundwater quality and pollution sources to protect the water bodies.

Research Article | Published online : 24-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 291–299
Shohini Chakraborty1, Biraj Sarkar2, Rajesh Kumar Mishra3, Dipak Dutta4 and Sukanta Majumdar*5
1,5 Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Gour Banga, Malda - 732 101, West Bengal, India 2 Department of Microbiology, University of Calcutta, 35- Ballygunje Circular Road, Kolkata - 700 019, West Bengal, India 3-4 Laboratory of Molecular Biochemistry, CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology, Sector 39A, Chandigarh - 160 036, India
Abstract
Root and rhizosphere associated Zinc solubilizing Bacteria (ZSB) prevailing in different agroecosystems reveal multiple attributes which could be exploited in various aspects of workable agriculture due to transfer of Zinc (Zn) from soil to sustainable plants. In an in-vitro experiment, Sh15 Shown maximum zone of 3.2 cm on ZnSO4 ore, also showed promising solubilizing capacity of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). Selected ZSB induced indole acetic acid in the absence of tryptophan and gave a positive response to the oxidase test, exhibited phosphate-solubilizing activity by the formation of clear zones on NBRIP agar plates and could produce siderophores. In the greenhouse study, Sh15 raised Zn translocation toward grains, which enhanced the production of basmati (PB -1637). Zinc transmission index (ZTI) was measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Sh15 (116 mg/g) treated plants showed the best results for carbohydrate estimation, as compared with control (82 mg/g) and for protein estimation, a maximum amount of protein was estimated in Sh15 (312 mg/g) bacterized plants as compared with control (201 mg/g). Throughout all the experiments, Sh15 expresses the highest potential as Zn solubilizer, biochemical and PGP strain. Based on molecular characterization like Matrix-Assisted Laser Desor.ption Ionization-Time of Flight–Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) and 16S rRNA gene sequencing Sh15 is identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Collectively, this study suggests that among four ZSB isolates, this potential Pseudomonas aeruginosa could be a potential ZSB PGPR candidate and demands a further investigation for developing a consortium with other PGPR for future on-site (infield) applications.

Research Article | Published online : 25-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 300–304
Navin Kumar Rajpal*1 and Vikash Kumar Verma2
1-2 Department of Economics, Sidho-Kanho-Birsha University, Purulia - 723 104, West Bengal, India
Abstract
Small and micro-enterprises pose several additional risks and uncertainties as compared to organized businesses. The women entrepreneurs engaged in small business tries to finance their family livelihood through making adjustment with the available threats and business risks. The present paper tries to highlight gender biased risk and uncertainties among women entrepreneurs engaged in perishable items in small town. The study finds significant contribution of women respondents in family income as well as decision making. Further, the risks and uncertainties faced by respondents are measured in five-point scale and found moderate to severe impact of gender issues among women entrepreneurs in the study area.

Research Article | Published online : 26-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 305–309
Prasenjit Bhagawati*1, Malashree Borah2, Shelima Akhtar3, Jutika Das4, Nilofer Sheikh5, Rekha Bora6 and Ashish Kar7
1-4 Department of Botany, Assam down town University, Panikhaiti, Guwahati, Guwahati - 781 026, Assam, India 5 Department of Botany, Biswanath College, Biswanath Chariali, Biswanath - 784 276, Assam, India 6 Laboratory of Ethnobotany and Medicinal Plant Conservation, Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Assam University, Silchar - 788 011, Assam, India 7 The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), North Eastern Regional Centre, Chachal, VIP Road, Hengrabari, Guwahati - 781 036, Assam, India
Abstract
Assam is located in the Northeastern part of India and is known for its large biodiversity. North-Lakhimpur district is located on the easternmost part of the state and is largely surrounded with tropical rain forest. A survey was conducted in a number of discrete locations in North-Lakhimpur district to identify various types of non-conventional wild edible fruits found in this region. A total of 33 wild non-conventional fruits are found, out of which 10 species (Baccaurea ramiflora, Duchesnea indica, Garcinia xanthochymus, Glycosmis arborea, Prunus jenkinsii, Morus alba, Livistona jenkinsiana, Physalis minima, Garcinia lanceiofolia, and Citrus macroptera) are least or not at all cultivated. However, most of them are known to have wide range of antimicrobial and various medicinal uses. In this study an attempt has been made to enlist the diversity, morphological features, taxonomical classification, fruiting season, local names, ethnobotanical and medicinal uses of the non-conventional fruits available in the in North-Lakhimpur district of Assam, India. Strategies needs to be undertaken for the popularization and cultivation of such wild fruits at commercial level before they extinct.

Research Article | Published online : 28-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 310–313
Shimanta Gogoi*1 and Dilip Kumar Rana2
1-2 Department of Economics, Tripura University (A Central University), Tripura - 799 022, India
Abstract
The growth of the agriculture sector played a dynamic role in the development of developing economies. The sector significantly contributed to the total NSDP in the state Assam. The sector played a vital role in the rural economy of Assam. Therefore, the present research investigates the economic growth of the agriculture sector in the state Assam during the period 1970 to 2018. The research applied the classical growth model to investigate the annual average growth rate of the sector. The research applied Chow test as well as Andrews-Quandt test to investigate the structural break of the growth rate in the sector during the period. The research observed that all the sub-sectors of the agriculture sector have structural break in 1991 in Assam.

Research Article | Published online : 28-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 314–317
K. Kalaiarasi1, R. Gobi*2, P. Sudhakar3, R. Selvakumar4 and K. Suseendran5
1 Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India 4 Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
A field experiment was conducted at Farmer’s Field, Chinnapalambakkam, Kaniyambadi, Vellore (Tamil Nadu) during 2020 to study the agronomic approaches for enhancing the growth and yield of irrigated maize (Zea mays L.). The experiments were laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications comprising of 9 treatments. The combined application of organic, inorganic and biofertilizer influenced the plant growth characters, yield attributes and yield of maize. Among the different treatments tried, application of 100 per cent RDN (50% N through Fertilizer + 50% N through Vermicompost) + Biofertilizer (Azospirillum) @ 10 packets ha-1 + Micronutrient mixture @ 25 Kg ha-1 (T9), recorded the maximum values of growth characters viz., plant height, leaf area index, dry matter production and yield attributes viz., cob length, cob diameter and number of grains cob-1, grain yield, stover yield and harvest index.

Research Article | Published online : 28-Feb-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 1 ; 318–321
Darling B. Suji*1, R. Jeya2, C. Praveen Sampath Kumar3 and R. Divya Bharathi4
1-3 Department of Agricultural Extension, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India 4 Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Paddy is a very important cereal crop having the highest productivity in the world. India stands second in paddy production in the world and it is self-sufficient in paddy production. Generally, the success of paddy cultivation depends upon knowledge and adoption of recommended paddy cultivation practices by the farmers, but the so-called new farming technologies are still remaining unrealized due to many problems and constraints in the southern states of India. Paddy is commonly grown in a traditional way by majority of the famers in Pudukkottai. So, they were not much aware of the paddy farming technologies. Keeping this point in mind, this research study was undertaken to analyze their knowledge on recommended paddy cultivation technologies. Keeping this in view, the study was carried out selected six villages in Aranthangi block of Pudukkottai district. The sample size consisted of 120 paddy growers. The respondents were interviewed personally through a well-structured and pre- tested interview schedule. Arithmetic mean, percentage analysis, cumulative frequency, zero order correlation and multiple regressions were used for analyzing and interpreting the data. The study revealed that majority of the respondents was found to be middle aged, have possessed formal level of education. Majority of them were found to be small to marginal farmers with medium level of experience in paddy cultivation. With regard to the dependent variables adoption had exhibited medium to low levels on recommended paddy technologies. out of fourteen variables studied, age, educational status, annual income and mass media exposure had positive and significant relationship at five per cent of probability and one variables namely social participation had positive significant relationship at one per cent level of probability with the adoption level of paddy growers. All other variables were found to be non-significant. Mass media exposure showed a positive and significant relationship with extent of adoption.

Research Article | Published online : 28-Feb-2022