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

© CARAS (Centre for Advanced Research in Agricultural Sciences)
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Volume - 13 - November-December 2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1667–1673
Bindu Vijayakumari Sudhakaran*1 and Fathima Haris2
1-2 Postgraduate Department of Zoology, Milad-E-Sherief Memorial College, Kayamkulam - 690 502, Kerala, India
Abstract
SARS Corona Virus 2 has imparted its impact on each region of existence globally via COVID-19. Lockdown related to COVID-19 made the scenario worse mainly in growing nations like India. It imparted its impact on transportation, supply chains, manufacturing and export of seafood mainly shrimp and prawn and in India especially in coastal states like Kerala fisheries is one of the primary sources of income. Kuttanad in Alappuzha district of Kerala state, India is a geographically special place that lies beneath sea degree and farmers’ right here exercise bio saline farming. A survey was performed amongst allied workers of fisheries in the shrimp and prawn enterprise of Kuttanad to consider the impact of COVID-19 associated lockdown on the economy, livelihood activities, job, health repute and health care. Henry Garrett analyses projected extreme constraints in availability and distribution of prawn and shrimp, seedlings distribution, disruption in transportation, farming, processing, demand disruption, loss of employment and wages for the workers. To minimize and overcome the impact of a pandemic the Kerala state government introduced various schemes of which many respondents of the survey opinioned that the sole supply of income as cash, was once the aid obtained from welfare pension and relief fund. All registered shrimp and prawn processing enterprise employees had been supplied with relief funds. The eligible worker’s social welfare pension increased and the Kerala state Government ensured the regular disbursal of pension. The four-month welfare pension is dispensed as a lump sum in April 2020. Workers additionally opinioned that the sole supply of livelihood was free or subsidized food grain (government ration) furnished by Kerala government authorities and some of them obtained meals packets from the owners of the shrimp and prawn enterprises. All workers are properly conscious of the ‘Break the chain’ campaign of the Government of Kerala. Many short-term policies and schemes had been introduced for the people to tide over the scenario of COVID-19.

Research Article | Published online : 03-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1674–1679
Anuj Kumar*1, Sonal Meena2 and Sunil Kumar3
1,3 Department of Economics, Government College, Dholpur - 328 001, Rajasthan, India 2 Department of Geography, Government College, Dholpur - 328 001, Rajasthan, India
Abstract
Agriculture sector has developed with the influence of science and technology but it is not yet accepted by women as the main labour. According to the Census of India, a worker is defined as a person whose main activity is participation in any economically productive activity of a physical or mental nature. The work involved is not only the actual work, but also the effective supervision and direction of the work. It also includes unpaid work on the farm or in the family enterprise. It is very important to understand the nature of rural landscape changes during the urbanization process to prepare rural management plans for sustainable development. Although there is not much information available about how rural landscapes change and there is limited evidence of how they can be improved. With the change of time the landscape of agriculture has also changed completely but one thing which has not changed over the centuries is the concept of women as the dominant force in the field. Agriculture in developing countries like India absorbs and employs two-thirds of the female work force but fails to recognize them as employed labour. Female labour force in developing countries still faces oppressive conditions. Women are the modern builders of the destiny of any nation. Women are considered to be the backbone of the Indian rural landscape. Women are more active in rural India than in urban India. Most of the women do various types of work to fulfil their livelihood and agriculture is considered to be the largest unorganized sector in which a large number of rural women actively contribute. Rural women constitute the most important productive work force in the Indian economy. Almost all rural women in India can be considered farmers as most of them are directly and indirectly engaged in agriculture and allied activities. In spite of their above participation in any work in India and work on such a large scale, women are not yet actively involved in the mainstream of development and there is hardly any appreciation and recognition for their massive contribution. Most of the studies related to female labour in India were done in the early decades of Green Revolution, although there are some recent studies related to the participation of women in agricultural work in India. The present study relates to western Uttar Pradesh, the most agriculturally developed region of India's most populous state Uttar Pradesh producing labour intensive crops such as sugarcane, wheat and paddy. The study is based on an in-depth field survey and primary data of 160 agricultural households belonging to western UP, which throws fair light on the contribution of women in agriculture in the study area.

Research Article | Published online : 05-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1680–1683
P. Ravindranath Reddy1, D. Dhanasekaran*2 and R. Nagaraju3
1-3 Department of Horticulture, Government Degree College, Tekkali - 532 202, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract
An investigation was carried out to find the effect of certain preservative and vase solution to extend the post-harvest life of gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) var. Red Torrossa in the Department of Horticulture, Annamalai University during 2020-21. The experiment was conducted with pulsing and holding solution at various concentrations viz., P0- No pulsing, P1- Sucrose @ 10% and P2- Sucrose @ 20%. Vase solutions comprise of 9 treatments with 3 concentrations viz., Nano silver (4, 8 and 12 ppm) and Benzyl adenine (10, 20 and 30 ppm) and 8 –HQC (4, 8 and 12 ppm). Assessment of pulsing and vase solution was done based on water uptake water (g/flower), water balance water (g/flower), cumulative physiological loss in weight water (%), and vase life (days). From the experiment it evident that maximum transpiration loss of water, fresh weight change, stem strength and vase life recorded maximum values under the treatment P1V2 (Pusling @ 20% and Nano Silver @ 8 ppm). From the experiment it is concluded that the gerbera var. Red Torrossa performed better in pulsing P2- sucrose 20% and holding solution V2- Nano silver @ 8 ppm.

Short communication | Published online : 05-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1684–1688
S. Pratheep*1 and D. Kanchana2
1-2 Department of Agricultural Microbiology, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Consumer consumption is increasing for minimally prepared fish that keeps its sensory and nutritional characteristics during processing and storage. The present study aimed to contribute more knowledge about the storage of marine fishes like Indian mackerel, red snapper, Indian whiting Lady fish, Indian goat fish and silver belly fish. During the storage, the lipid inside the fish muscle oxidises and breaks down into simpler molecules such as free fatty acids, peroxides, and thiobarbituric acid and microbial growth due to rich in protein. Spoilage was examined by sensory analyses, chemical and microbiological for the period of 1 to 20 days storage time at 4°C.

Research Article | Published online : 07-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1689–1691
Pinki Kumari*1, M. Anwar Mallick2 and Navin Chandra3
1-3 University Department of Biotechnology, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribagh - 825 001, Jharkhand, India
Abstract
Biosynthesis of nanoparticles using the extract of medicinal plant in a non- hazardous mode has gained wide attention for various application in Nano medicine. The biologicals method of metal nanoparticles synthesis is more effective because of slow reduction rate of polydispersity of the final product. In our, study we have synthesized silver nanoparticles using leaves extract of Withania somnifera leaf extract. The synthesized AgNO3 were found to have a size of 346±03nm and hydrodynamic diameter as determined by DLS. AgNO3 was stable in disc diffusion medium with zeta potential of -23±01mV. The antibacterial studies showed significant activity as compared to their respective standard. From the results, Withania Somnifera Silver nanoparticles has attained the maximum antimicrobial against clinical pathogen and also very good stability of nanoparticles throughput processing. As we concluded, this type of naturally synthesized silver nanoparticles could be a better green resolution in medicinal chemistry. Silver nanoparticles were prepared by green method. The reduction of metal ions by leaf extract loading Ag Nano composites of quite distinct proportions. The synthesized AgNP were characterized by UV- Visible Spectrophotometer, DLS (Dynamic light scattering). Based on the current conclusion, it is accomplished that silver nanoparticles could be used as an antifungal agent in controlling the disease caused by fungi. The present study has opened up the possible way for synthesizing multidrug resistance antimicrobial AgNPs using natural biomolecules which could be employed in the pharmacy industry. By using such plant extract to develop Nano medicine along idea variety of human other veterinary pathogens.

Short communication | Published online : 07-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1692–1701
U. Narain1, Alka Kushwaha*2, Piyush Mishra3, Sunil Kumar Singh4, Harshita5 and Gyan Prakash Gupta*6
1,5 Department of Plant Pathology, C.S. Azad University of Agricultural and Technology, Kanpur - 208 002, Uttar Pradesh, India 2-4,6 Department of Botany, Dayanand Anglo-Vedic (DAV) College, Kanpur - 208 001, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
The family Brassicaceae (Crucifers) including a number of vegetables grouped as Cole crops, root crops, herbaceous vegetables, oleiferous (oilseed) crops, and also ornamental plants, were observed to be infected by six species of Alternaria, causing leaf spots and blight, lesions on stems, petioles, silique; blossom blight, seedling blight, and damping off. Alternaria brassicae, the representative species of Brassicaceae was found to infect plants of all the groups of Crucifers followed by A. raphani restricted to eight hosts, A. brassicicola to five, A. japonica to four and A. alternata to only broccoli and radish. A. cheiranthi appeared to be a single species of Alternaria confined only to wallflower (Cheiranthus cheiri) to cause the leaf spot disease. Symptoms of all the groups of Brassicaceous hosts due to Alternaria species, the most distinguishing morphological features of the causative fungus have been described. The differences in symptomatology and etiology of diseases have been critically analyzed. A very simple and feasible key has also been framed for the correct and easy identification of all the six species of Alternaria associated with brassicaceous vegetables, oleiferous and ornamental plants.

Research Review | Published online : 10-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1702–1705
Devesh Pathak*1 and Rais Ullah Khan2
1-2 Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh - 202 002, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is recognized as the most deleterious polyphagous plant pathogen with worldwide distribution. The pathogen is reported to causes disease over 500 plant species belong to diverse group of plants. The symptoms produced by this pathogen can develop at all the above-ground parts of the plant i.e., stems, leaves and pods during the pre-maturity or at the post-harvest stage, thereby, resulted in causing severe losses in both quantity and quality of the crop. The yield losses due to this pathogen varied from 0-100 percent which is dependent on the severity of the disease and the plant parts affected severely. Several nutritional and non-nutritional factors such as temperature, moisture, photoperiod, nutrients, pH, oxygen concentration, type soil, depth and mechanical factors affected the growth and reproduction of the pathogen. Therefore, the present study was conducted to ascertain the effect of different pH levels i.e., 3.5 to 8.5 on growth and sclerotial development of this pathogen. The observations thus clearly ascertain that the growth and sclerotial production of S. sclerotiorum was significantly influenced by different pH levels, but fungus preferred pH 4.5 to 6.0 for their maximum radial growth and sclerotial development.

Research Article | Published online : 11-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1706–1708
V. Anantha Jothi*1 and M. Selvi2
1-2 PG and Research Department of Botany, Sri Parasakthi College for Women (Autonomous), (Affiliated under Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli), Courtallam - 627 802, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Alginic acid is a non-agricultural, non-synthetic substance as allowed as an ingredient or on processed products labelled as “organic” or made with organic. Alginic acid is derived from brown seaweeds and is extracted primarily through different treatments. Gelatin is a nutritious protein that finds applications as an ingredient in the food, pharmaceutical and photographic industries. Gelatin derived from pig skin is normally referred to as type-A gelatin and gelatin derived from beef skin is referred to as type-B gelatine. Sodium alginate is a cell wall component of marine brown algae and contains approximately 30-60% alginic acid. The conversion of alginic acid to sodium alginate allows its solubility in water, which assists its extraction. The polymers closely resemble alginic acid, a seaweed polysaccharide as shown by composition and alginate digestion. Thickening property of various agents like gelatine alginate and natural colloidal agents (G. edulis) were checked Synthetic (purified) agents enhances the thickening property faster than natural one. Time variation observed from 2-12minutes for natural agent (G. edulis) and 5-20 minutes for synthetic and purified chemical agents. Food thickening agents are widely used to modify rheological and textural properties as well as to enhance the quality attributes. Improvement in moisture bunding capacity, structural modification and altering flow behaviour properties are the major functions of food thickeners. Factors such as temperature shear. pH ionic strength etc. have effect on the functionally of these thickening agents and must be carefully optimized by food processor while formulation. The manufactures use various thickeners in the form of starch gum. Xanthum gum, gum Arabic guar gum, and carboxyl methyl cellulose to improve the consistency of food.

Short communication | Published online : 12-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1709–1713
Kuzhandaivel Jayaprakash*1 and Vadivel Balamurugan2
1-2 PG and Research Department of Biotechnology, Sri Vinayaga College of Arts and Science, Ulundurpet - 606 107, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Moringa gum is one of the natural sources of rich carbohydrate polymers. These polysaccharide exudates are widely used in food, pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. The current study focused on the application of these gums in the agricultural sector. In our study, Moringa gums were used in the agricultural field as a natural resource in various experimental setups such as Moringa gum powder (MGP) + (MCS), (MGP) + (MS), + (MC), and soil combinations. We introduce to the field an idea of a Moringa gum-based hydrogel combination in various concentrations from the standpoint of high-water absorption, excellent retention capacity, effective controlled release, and especially allowing the soil beneficial microbiota growth. The experimental setup showed valuable results in Water Holding Capacity (WHC) with increased plant growth. However, this treatment induced a significant improvement in crop yield and soil condition.

Research Article | Published online : 14-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1714–1720
Rashida Tahira Noorain*1 and Hemanta Chutia2
1 Assam Rajiv Gandhi University of Cooperative Management, Sivasagar - 785 665, Assam, India 2 Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, Tezpur University, Department of Food Science and Engineering, India
Abstract
Black rice is widely popular variant of rice (Oryza sativa L.) widely consumed in India and the South Asian countries. The distinctive colour in black rice is due to the presence of anthocyanins in its bran which endows it a distinctive place in desserts. Its distinctive colour and the nutty texture make it popular as a snack and as a natural food colourant. The present study attempts to explore Advanced Fuzzy logic approach for optimized sensory evaluation of porridge vis-à-vis substitute to the popular white rice porridge, given the higher nutritional benefits of black rice. A sensory study to explore the preferred porridge with its composition was conducted with 28 samples to determine the suitable ratio of constituents in black rice porridge. The study revealed that a ratio of 60 grams of dry black rice by weight in a liter of milk is most preferred over the popular white rice counterpart. The results can serve as guidance to prospective entrepreneurs, restaurants to devise the most suitable composition of constituents for black rice porridge and for targeting the health-conscious consumers.

Research Article | Published online : 14-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1721–1723
Ganesh S. Balhal*1 and Sanjay M. Pawar2
1 Shri. Asaramji Bhandwaldar Art's, Commerce and Science College Deogaon Rangari, Aurangabad - 431 115, Maharashtra India 2 UG, PG and Research Center, Shivaji Arts Commerce and Science College, Kannad, District Aurangabad - 431 103, Maharashtra, India
Abstract
Powdery mildews are probably the most common, conspicuous, wide spread and easily recognizable plant disease. Powdery mildew fungi infect many species of medicinal plants in including many trees, shrubs, vegetables, cereals, grasses, numerous ornamentals and even weeds. On the host plants powdery mildew causes morphological, anatomical and physiological damages of plants and remarkable destruction and loss in plants. Powdery mildew disease have been known to various medicinal plant throughout India and across the world keeping this in view, present paper deals with the survey of powdery mildew was carried out in Gautala forest Aurangabad district Maharashtra. During 2019-2021 there were 35 medicinal plants noticed as the host of powdery mildew fungi in Gautala forest of maharashtra. Among them 14 wild plants, 11 weeds plants, 04 fruiting yielding plants, 04 climbers and 02 ornamental plants.

Short communication | Published online : 14-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1724–1728
Murulidhar M. Venkannanavara*1 and N. M. Kerur2
1 Agribusiness and Food Processing, School of Agribusiness and Rural Management, Karnataka State Rural Development and Panchayat Raj University, Gadag - 582 101, Karnataka, India 2 Agribusiness Management), College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad - 580 005, Karnataka, India
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to analyze groundnut market integration in six major regional markets located in Gujarat (Junagadh and Rajkot), Rajasthan (Bikaner and Jaipur) and Karnataka (Hubballi and Raichur) states of India were selected based on major arrivals of commodity to respective market, using monthly wholesale prices of groundnut during 2005 to 2021. Augmented Dickey-Fuller Unit root test indicated that the price series in each location are non -stationary at their levels, and stationary at their first differences. Co-integration results showed that the regional markets have price linkages and thus are spatially integrated. Johansen’s multiple co-integration tests reveals that that their existence of at least five co-integration equations for selected groundnut markets based on likelihood-ratio test. Granger causality test explain that, there is existence of mostly bidirectional causality with few unidirectional causality among selected groundnut markets. The unidirectional relationship was found for the pair of Raichur market indicates that price of Raichur market influence the price of Rajkot and Hubballi market. Similarly, Hubballi, Junagadh, Rajkot, Bikaner and Jaipur exerted bidirectional causality among them. Thus, results of the study indicated a strong integration among major groundnut markets in India. It’s clearly manifest that Raichur is the independent market for groundnut prices in south India and also there bidirectional relationships exist among the domestic markets, So it is confirmed that the price of one market influence the price of other markets. The test for causality is based on F statistics. Which indicated the price transmission happening in long run adjustments and the presence of short run equilibrium existed among the groundnut markets in India. Vector error correction estimates indicates that, extent of groundnut markets integration for different lags in the current study.

Research Article | Published online : 15-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1729–1732
Archana Kushwaha1 and Poonam Dehariya*2
1-2 Lab of Mushroom Biology, Department of Botany, Dr. H. S. G. V. V., Sagar - 470 003, Madhya Pradesh, India
Abstract
Mushroom is cultivated across the world which is highly nutritious and pharmaceutically useful for the human. Oyster mushroom is growing on agriculture waste material by using argo-cellulosic for growing to easily decompose agricultural waste material. Substrate is Triticum aestivum as control and other substrate is Oryza sativa, Lens culinaris and Cicer areitum is taken to grow Pleutotus djamor. morphological evaluation of growing mushroom on substrate result is Oryza sativa, Lens culinaris and Cicer aeritium as mycelium initiation, spawn run days and pinhead appearance and siphonophore’s formation and harvesting and biological efficiency as well as fresh and dry weight of the taken mushroom gives Oryza sativa, Lens culinaris and Cicer aeritum respectively. Mean values under the same category that bear different superscript letters are significantly different (α < 0.05).

Research Article | Published online : 15-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1733–1740
Anjali Bhati1, Subhash Anand2 and Shubham Kumar Sanu*3
1-3 Department of Geography, Delhi School of Economics, University of Delhi - 110 007, Delhi, India
Abstract
Organic farming is important to improved soil fertility, carbon sequestration, resource utilization, biodiversity maintenance, sustainability, and environmental protection. Organic agriculture is environment friendly and favorable for land and farmers both thus in India also farmers are shifting towards it. Even the Government of India and the state governments are providing initiatives to encourage farmers toward sustainable food production through organic farming. Considering the significance of organic farming this research work did the SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threat) analysis of organic farming with reference to Ghaziabad district of Uttar Pradesh. The feasibility of organic farming is measured by the cost analysis and market-oriented elements. The price measures also used to assess the feasibility. The study is based on primary data combined with other secondary sources of data. Stratified random sampling has been used for selecting the household at the block level. The study finds out that are under organic farming has improved over the years. Further, the economic viability of organic farming is most prevalent in Ghaziabad. The social and economic value of organic farming is also very high in the district.

Research Article | Published online : 16-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1741–1745
Maniklal Pati1 and Asis Kumar Nandi*2
1 Department of Botany, Egra SSB College, Egra, Purba Medinipur - 721 429, West Bengal, India 2 Department of Botany and Forestry, Vidyasagar University, Medinipur - 721 102, West Bengal, India
Abstract
Suaeda maritima (L.) Dumort., a halophyte herb of the family Chenopodiaceae, grows gregariously along the coastal belt of Purba Medinipur district of West Bengal in India. The geographical location of this area is in between 21°63'16''N to 21°70'50''N latitude and 87°54'63''E to 88°12'40''E longitude. This annual salt marsh species is regularly used by the local people as food and also for curing many a disease. Earlier works report on phenotypic plasticity of it and other aspects of morpho-anatomical features as well as useful phytochemical elements of it. Since the populations of this species in this coast are not growing contiguously, in search of any plasticity due to genetic difference amongst the individuals of different populations AFLP analyses were carried out. The studied area was transected into eight zones. The genetic distances were calculated based on the AFLP bands that had been amplified using the 12 primer combinations. The similarity indices (SI) ranged from 0.19 to 0.83. The dendrogram was created using the UPGMA and the genotypes were found to be classified into 2 major groups. This study revealed the existence of genetic diversity even among the individuals of closely growing populations of this species, indicating significant dynamism in it, a fact which may be quite imperative of its ability to cope up with the fragile physical environment it grows in.

Research Article | Published online : 17-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1746–1751
Puja Sarmah*1
1 Department of Life Sciences, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh - 786 004, Assam, India
Abstract
Jokai reserve forest is a habitat of various flora and fauna as it is a major biodiversity spot in upper Assam but to date, the diversity and conservation strategy of the forest is very poorly studied. Therefore, a field survey was carried out using various techniques and equipment on the conservation strategy and major flora and fauna of the Forest cum botanical garden, was conducted for three months from March 2022 to May 2022. A total of 120 species of flora and fauna were recorded. Out of which 37 species were flora of mainly evergreen, deciduous and grassland type. The remaining 83 species are belonging to fauna. With 45 different species, Aves is the most diverse class of fauna. On the other hand, with only 12 species recorded during the study period reptiles shows the lowest diversity. Out of these 12 species, 11 species are herpetofauna. 26 different types of mammals are also found in this forest. Besides these, the forest also has ex-situ conservation strategies like- The germplasm centre and Botanical Garden. Although this area is rich in biodiversity governments need to develop some more strategies to preserve this forest as this forest cum botanical garden is poorly maintained.

Research Article | Published online : 18-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1752–1755
K. U. Gaikwad*1 and K.N. Gaikwad2
1-2 Department of Botany, K.A.A.N.M. Arts, Commerce and Science College, Satana, Nashik - 422 301, Maharashtra, India
Abstract
Diatoms are a good indicator of the ecological condition of rivers and important for water quality assessment. The diatoms are diverse in freshwater bodies & one of the richest algal groups in river habitats. The extensive diversity of diatoms in freshwater is controlled by the physicochemical condition of the water. Sequences of studies were carried out to determine the diversity of diatoms in the Darna River of Igatpuri tehsil of Nashik district. The investigation was conducted at monthly intervals for a period of two years July 2019 to Jun 2021. The current study aims to evaluate the biodiversity of Diatoms (Bacillariophyceae) and the impact of seasonal variation on diatoms diversity in the Darna River. Four sampling stations were selected from the river through the Igatpuri tehsil. Different physicochemical parameters were analyzed from water samples such as pH, temperature, turbidity, conductivity, BOD, etc. The diversity of diatoms was maximum during winter and summer seasons and minimum during rainy seasons. Among the all diatoms the species Synendra, Navicula, Cymbella, Pinnularia, Gomphonema, etc, showed vast diversity.

Research Article | Published online : 19-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1756–1761
A. Vennila Mary*1 and G. Tamilselvi2
1 Department of Agricultural Extension, Palar Agricultural College, Ambur, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu 2 Department of Agricultural Extension, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The study was taken up in three selected blocks of Tirupattur District of Tamil Nadu to identify the constraints experienced by the women entrepreneurs in managing ago-based enterprises. A sample size of 150 women entrepreneurs managing two agro-based enterprises’ viz., vermicompost and dairy were selected as respondents for the study. The respondents were interviewed personally by a well-structured and pre-tested interview schedule. The collected data were analyzed and tabulated using appropriate statistical tools. The constraints experienced by women entrepreneurs were classified as production and marketing constraints. The constrains experienced by the women entrepreneurs in vermicompost production were shortage of raw materials (92.00 per cent), lack of awareness among the villagers about the role of vermicompost in crop production (82.33 per cent), lack of finance (78.66 per cent), lack of knowledge on advanced technologies (64.00 per cent), tedious procedure for getting credit (54.66 per cent), inadequate infrastructure (46.66 per cent) and difficulty in procuring earth worms (33.33 per cent). The constrains experienced by the women entrepreneurs in vermicompost marketing were lack of transportation (85.33 per cent), price fluctuation (76.00 per cent), inadequate marketing intelligence (50.66 per cent), lack of remunerative price (48.00 per cent), delayed repayment from buyers (40.00 per cent), lack of storage facilities (38.66 per cent). Similarly, the production constraints experienced by women managing dairy enterprises were high initial investment requirements (94.66 per cent), dearth of availability of quality inputs such as high yielding animals and feed ingredients (89.33 per cent), high incidence and treatment cost of reproductive disorders and other diseases in the milch animals (84.00 per cent), lack of knowledge and training on value addition especially in the vernacular language (76.00 per cent), lack of technical knowledge on scientific animal husbandry practices (58.66 per cent), lack of knowledge about various government schemes (53.33 per cent), inadequate infrastructure availability (44.00 per cent), tedious procedure for getting loans and subsidies (38.66 per cent). The marketing constraints experienced by women entrepreneurs were low/unremunerative price of liquid milk (70.66 per cent), delay in payment by unorganized sector (61.33 per cent), inadequate transportation facilities (49.33 per cent), lack of storage facilities for milk and milk products (36.00per cent) and difficulty in maintaining accounts (32.00 per cent).

Research Article | Published online : 19-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1762–1764
Pelapudi Pitchaiah1-2 and Ganti Swarnabala*3
1 Shivashakti Bio Planttec Ltd, S.R. Nagar, Hyderabad - 500 038, Telangana, India 2 Department of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad - 500 085, Telangana, India 3 Swaram Biochem, Secunderabad - 500 011, Telangana, India
Abstract
From the last decade, awareness on usage of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) is increasing on a rapid scale. Though several advantages of PGPR were noticed, several disadvantage of individual microbial inoculants viz. inconsistency, poor performance in various geographical locations were noticed. The present research aims in developing a cost effective PGPR consortia-based formulation with high stability. The formulation developed showed high stability at 37 oC (2.6 × 108/ml), 45 oC (9.1 × 107/ml) and 4 oC (6.7 × 108/ml). Shelf-life comparison study with the market product and unformulated microbial cells showed high stability in the developed encapsulated liquid formulation (1.3 × 108/ml). Based on the results, it can be concluded that the developed formulation can be effectively used for the formulation of PGPR consortium. The present research work targets, cost effective plant growth promoting consortium-based formulation with better shelf life. Based on the above results, it can be concluded that the developed encapsulated liquid formulation showed high stability when compared to the market product and the unformulated microbial cells. So, the developed formulation can be effectively used for the formulation of plant growth promoting microbial consortium.

Short communication | Published online : 25-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1765–1770
Nowsheen Hassan*1 and Shafiq-ur-Rehman2
1-2 Division of Environmental Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar - 190 025 Srinagar Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
Effect of different temperature ranges, pH levels and light intensity were tested against the growth of Rhizopus stolonifer (Ehrenberg ex. Fr.) Lind, Aspergillus niger Van Teighem, Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissler, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Sacc.) W.C. Snyder and H.N. Hans, and Phytophthora nicotianae Breda de Haan under in vitro conditions which were isolated from the tomato samples brought from various locations. The temperature of 25 °C was best for the growth of Rhizopus stolonifer, Alternaria alternata, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici and Phytophthora nicotianae while as the temperature of 35 °C was best for the growth of Aspergillus niger. Maximum growth of Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus niger, Alternaria alternata was obtained when exposed to alternating light and alternating dark. Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici recorded maximum growth when exposed to dark. Maximum growth of Phytophthora nicotianae was observed at twelve hours light. The pH 5.5 was best for the growth of Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus niger and the pH6.5 was best for the growth of Alternaria alternata and Phytophthora nicotianae while as the pH 7.0 was best for the growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici.

Research Article | Published online : 28-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1771–1779
S. Padmavathi*1 and Ch. S. Anuradha2
1 Department of Botany, Dr. V. S. Krishna Government Degree College (A), Visakhapatnam - 530 013, Andhra Pradesh, India 2 Department of Chemistry, Dr. V. S. Krishna Government Degree College (A), Visakhapatnam - 530 013, Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract
Heavy metal pollution of agricultural soils is a widespread environmental threat. Heavy metals induce deleterious effects on plants. These effects can be minimized by the application of PGPB on plants under stress. The main objective of this study is to assess the effect of PGPB inoculants of Brevundimonas sp. of bacterium on growth and antioxidant enzyme activities of pigeon pea seedlings grown under high mercury concentrations. The plant antioxidant response has been analyzed by quantifying the catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and glutathione reductase (GR) enzyme activity in pigeon pea seedlings exposed to mercury and different PGPB treatments. Our data indicated that the bacteria acted as a shield and protect the Cajanus plants from mercury toxicity and hence extent of lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes (CAT, POX and SOD) were determined for all three treatments i.e., control (C), untreated (mercury exposed) and treated (bacteria + mercury). The antioxidant enzyme activities, MDA content and proline content were increased in the mercury exposed pigeon pea and a parallel reduction was observed in Brevundimonas bacterium treated pigeon pea seedlings under mercury stress indicate that these plants faced less stress in presence of Brevundimonas bacterium.

Research Article | Published online : 29-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1780–1782
Rashmi Durgapal*1 and Rajshree Upadhyay2
1-2 Department of Extension Education and Community Management, College of Community and Applied Sciences, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur - 313 001, Rajasthan, India
Abstract
The study was planned to design multimedia compact disc (CD) on government digital initiatives in agriculture for farmers and conduct its assessment by experts. The study was conducted in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Initially, subject matter information on different agriculture related web portals and mobile applications was collected and approved by the experts and then a multimedia CD was developed. In line with purpose, a panel of experts from Department of Extension Education and Communication Management, Department of Agriculture, Department of Agricultural Extension and Farm Science Centre was selected. The CD was evaluated on visual and audio aspects separately on a five-point continuum from ‘excellent’ to ‘poor’ with scores 5 to 1, respectively. The findings revealed all the criteria for visual aspect were rated very good with scores ranged between 3.94 to 4.54 out of maximum score 5. Similarly, for audio aspect all the criteria were rated as excellent with scores ranged from 4.14 to 4.44 out of 5. This indicates the multimedia CD was considered as to be very good by the experts and can be used by agriculture professionals to disseminate information about use of agro-based portals and application to enhance digital penetration in the field of agriculture.

Research Article | Published online : 30-Nov-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1783–1786
Kumari Ragni*1 and Gajendra Prasad2
1-2 Plant Physiology and Mycotoxin Laboratory, University Department of Botany and Biotechnology, Lalit Narayan Mithila University, Darbhanga - 846 004, Bihar, India
Abstract
Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important cereal crop plants. It can be used in cooked, roasted, fried ground, crushed to prepare various food items like Kurkure, Popcorn, Corn syrup, Corn sauce, Cornmeal as well as it also useful as medicines and as raw materials for industries. Due to Climatic changes, it has been reported as a driver for emerging food and feed safety. This toxic infection result reduces grain quality due to contamination of maize seeds with the mycotoxin especially aflatoxin. One of the most effective ways to control the problems caused by aflatoxins due to prevent the growth of seed germination. Bitter plants like Azadirachta indica is one of the medicinal plants having antifungal or antimicrobial properties. Our findings reveals that the maximum inhibition in seed germination were 76.56 % on maize at 2ppm concentration of AFT- B1. Also reports shows that, the minimum inhibitions in seed germination were recorded in chl a, chl b, Total chl a+b and carotenoids were 9.75, 22.22, 9.83 and 47.51 in maize seedlings due to treatment of AFT- B1 with A. indica at 2 mg/ml concentration. Ultimately Azadirachta indica extracts reduce the inhibitory properties of AFT-B1 produced by A. flavus. Furthermore, the bitter plant like A. indica investigated in the present study may provide potential leads for novel bioactive. This will ultimately lead to substantial, financial returns to the farmers as these Bitter plant like Azadirachta indica.

Research Article | Published online : 01-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1787–1790
Anju Yadav*1 and S. S. Burark2
1-2 Department of Agricultural Economics and Management, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur - 313 001, Rajasthan, India
Abstract
A study was conducted to analysis the constraints faced by farmers during crop production under canal irrigation in Banswara district of Rajasthan. A total of 120 farmers were selected from 6 randomly selected villages of 3 tehsils namely Garhi, Gathol and Banswara. The primary data were collected with the help of pre structured schedule during the year 2020-2021.Garrettt’s Ranking technique and Rank Based Quotient (RBQ) method used for analyzing the problems faced by farmers in study area. Results of study revealed that among technical the most constraint was lack of adequate water for irrigation at the critical period. Lack of marketing facilities at local place was found major constraint related to market. Fragmented land holding was observed prime constraint at farm level. Other constraints were related to labour, financial and environment.

Research Article | Published online : 01-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1791–1793
Jeevamathi J*1 and Srinivasan G2
1-2 Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Guava is a most important fruit crop and it has higher adaptability as well as productivity. Even though, Guava cultivation was introduced in the seventeen centuries, the farmers were unaware of the improved cultivation practices. Hence an attempt was made in this study, to analyze cost and returns of guava cultivation in Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu at farm level with the following objectives: i) To estimate cost and returns in Guava production in the study area, ii) To give policy suggestions based on the results of the study. The present study was conducted in Thiruvennainallur block of Villupuram district. Further, in block, four villages were selected for the study and finally, 120 growers randomly selected. In this study, CCPC Method of Cost of Cultivation and Benefit-Cost Ratio was worked out to analyze the profitability in guava cultivation. The results indicated that the per unit cost of cultivation is declining as size group increases, since it is a perennial crop, one has to wait for five years for first yielding of Guava. This problem could be better managed by cultivating intercrops in guava plantations.

Research Article | Published online : 02-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1794–1801
Anindita Sinha*1, Pradip Chouhan2 and Tanmoy Deb3
1 Department of Economics, Tripura Government Law College, Agartala - 799 004, Tripura, India 1-3 Faculty of Management and Commerce, ICFAI University Tripura, Agartala-Simna Road, P.O. Kamalghat, Mohanpur, Agartala - 799 210, Tripura, India
Abstract
The Government of India has launched the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, a crop insurance scheme that subsidizes the premium and promises to settle claims timely. Tripura is a state where 65 to 70 per cent of people earn their livelihood from the agricultural sector. The present paper tries to determine the extent of crop insurance coverage in the state under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, and also examines the determinants of crop insurance demand, highlighting the effect of climate change. The study is largely based on primary data collected through cluster random sampling techniques. Standard statistical tools are used to analyze the primary data. Moreover, a binary logistic regression has also been carried out to examine the determinants of crop insurance demand in Tripura. The study finds that only 24 per cent of the farmers are willing to take crop insurance. The results also show that farm income, coverage period wanted, climate change and risk perception are significant factors associated with crop insurance.

Research Article | Published online : 03-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1802–1806
Hanmant B. Sutar*1 and Ramrao G. Patil2
1-2 Department of Zoology, Lal Bahadur Shastri College, Satara - 415 002, Maharashtra, India
Abstract
Linseed (Linum usitatissimum Linn.) is cultivated as cash crop by farmers in various regions of Maharashtra. Increased vigor and production of crop was naturally achieved through cross pollination by various foragers during blooming season. One of the major problems of crop health during the growth period is attacks of various pests. Farmers applied various insecticides to control pest attack, but on the other hand insecticides have adverse effect on foragers of particular crop. The present study attempted to assess insecticidal effect on foragers of linseed with respect to various pollinating attributes. In this field investigation, sowing of NL-97 variety seeds of linseed was carried out in two different farmlands, one with insecticides sprayed and another without insecticide application. Various attribute of pollination service was observed during this research on both crop fields alternately in highest blooming period. Observational data of pollinating attribute for each forager between both plots used to calculate percent difference. Results of the study revealed that abundance, foraging rate and foraging duration of foragers was significantly affected by insecticide application (p<0.05). A. cerena indica, Halictus spp., Trigona spp. and Coccinella septempunctata found as pollens of linseed attached on their body and considered as pollinators of particular crop. Foragers on bloom of treated field was observed after 36 (± 4) hour of insecticide application.

Research Article | Published online : 05-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1807–1810
Ankush Pal*1
1 Department of Botany, Berhampore Girls’ College, Berhampore, Murshidabad - 742 101, West Bengal, India
Abstract
Pollen morphology of 10 species and 2 varieties of Rhamnaceous taxa belonging to all the four tribes have been worked out. Pollen morphology of the family shows a tendency of evolution from basic morpho forms to the derived ones. Pollen grains of all the taxa investigated have been found to possess triangular or sub-triangular amb with three equatorial apertures situated at the angles (anguloaperturate). In Ziziphus xylopyrus the pollen grains are pororate and in rest nine species those are colporate with circular or lalongate endoapertures. Exine ornamentation shows a gradual tendency from granulose to rugulo-reticulate or reticulate pattern. Palynological features have been evaluated in understanding the taxonomy of the family.

Short communication | Published online : 05-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1811–1815
Merlin Seles J1 and Chitra K*2
1-2 Bharathiar University, Coimbatore - 641 046, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Agricultural soil is mainly consisting of minerals, organic matter, water and air. Soil fertility is the ability to improve the plant growth. Carrots are widely cultivated in high lands. For the present study the area Manihatti was selected. The soil parameters were assessed in the Manihatti field at the stages of before, after applying fertilizers, and harvest stage. The pH of the soil is acidic in condition. The EC value indicated that the soil is healthy. The macronutrients such as nitrogen, potassium was present below the low level but phosphorus was present at the high level in all the stages. The heavy metals present in the soil are very toxic to the living organism. The heavy metal cadmium was present within the threshold and permissible limit and the other metals such as chromium, copper, nickel was present below the threshold and permissible limit. The metal arsenic was present below the detectable limit. The morphological parameters of carrot indicated that the length of shoot and root increased with maximum height 60 cm and 18 cm. The study concluded that the soil proved good and healthy with the presence of micro and macro nutrients and heavy metals within the critical level.

Research Article | Published online : 06-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1816–1817
Choudhury Bagmee Barenya1 and Sailendri Kumari Patra*2
1-2 Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha ‘O’ Anushandhan (Deemed to Be) University, Bhubaneswar - 751 003, Odisha, India
Abstract
An investigation was carried out at Agricultural Research Station, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar to find out the effect of biofertilizers on corm production of gladiolus cv. Arka Amar. For this, nine treatments were taken, replicated thrice in a randomized block design. The study revealed that, maximum number of corms per hill (3.73), highest corm weight (216.53 gm) and maximum corm diameter (6.33 cm) were obtained from the treatment T8 (100% RDF + Azospirillum + PSB), followed by 5.82 cm in T6 (100% RDF + Azotobacter + PSB). It may be concluded that, the positive effect of biofertilizers was clearly visible as compared to control. But the combination of 100% RDF + Azospirillum + PSB was found more effective for all the corm attributes than Azotobacter.

Short communication | Published online : 06-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1818–1822
G. Prabhakaran1, G. Nedumaran2 and Shubham Kumar Sanu*3
1 Department of Commerce, Alagappa University, Karaikudi - 630 003, Tamil Nadu, India 2 Department of Commerce, Alagappa University, Karaikudi - 630 003, Tamil Nadu, India 3 Department of Geography, Delhi School of Economics, University of Delhi, New Delhi - 110 007, India
Abstract
Cashew tree, also known as the "poor man's crop," is a source of high-priced cashew nuts. India, as the world's major producer, consumer, and second largest exporter of cashews, holds a dominant position in the global cashew trade. However, the productivity of Indian cashew is significantly lower than that of its closest competitors, namely, Vietnam, Nigeria, Côte d'Ivoire, and the Philippines. India's cashew processing industry is booming as well. A cashew apple can be used to create numerous products like halwa, toffees, sweets, cashew apple powder in wheat laddu, set dhahi, masala biscuits, sweet and masala doughnuts, sponge cake, steaming kadabu, tomato cashew apple powder soup, cashew apple powder koftas, chocolates, nutrimix, sweet and hot bread spread, syrup, jam, chutney, pickle, vinegar, etc. This study comprehensively analyzed the positive and negative aspects related with the cultivation of cashew in India.

Research Article | Published online : 07-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1823–1827
T. Pushpa*1, G. Senthilkumar2 and V. Ampikapathi3
1-2 Department of Microbiology, AVVM Sri Pushpam College (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Thiruchirappalli), Poondi, Thanjavur - 613 503, Tamil Nadu, India 3 P.G. Department of Botany, AVVM Sri Pushpam College (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Thiruchirappalli), Poondi, Thanjavur - 613 503, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Ganoderma lucidum is one of the most important medicinal mushrooms utilized as food, feed and as medicine since time immemorial. In the current scenario, this mushroom is utilized as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antimicrobial agents. In this study Ganoderma lucidum Powder is used to study proximate analysis, secondary metabolite analysis by preliminary chemical analysis, quantitative analysis method, FT-IR and GC-MS methods. The results of present study revealed that powder extract contains carbohydrates, crude fat, proteins, minerals and secondary metabolites. FT-IR result showed different alkene and multiple chromophores. GC-MS chromatogram of the ethanol extract showed 15 peaks indicating the presence of fifteen compounds with the retention time range between 10.035 and 40.105. The nutritional values of the mushroom species studied here could potentially be used in well-balanced diets and as sources of bioactive compounds. Further studied are needed to confirm bioactivity of phytochemicals like steroids, flavonoids, alkaloids and phenolic compounds present in the extracts of Ganoderma lucidum.

Research Article | Published online : 07-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1828–1830
Angsuman Chanda*1,2 and Sanjat Kumar Sahu2
1 Natural and Applied Science Research Centre, Vidyasagar University, Raja Narendra Lal Khan Women’s College (Autonomous), Gope-Palace, Midnapore - 721 102, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal, India 2 Department of Environmental Science, Sambalpur University, Joyti Behar, Burla, Sambalpur, Odisha, India
Abstract
Amblyceps mangois, Indian torrent catfish or biting catfish or even foot hill catfish is a freshwater, bottom dwelling Silluroid fish belonging to order Silluriformes, under family Silluridae of genus Amblyceps. Primary objective of the current investigation is emphasizing on the occurrence and distribution of the species in plane of south-western part of West Bengal as well as its current taxonomic status. Fishery importance of the species is negligible and not available in the fish market of the study area. The species was first reported from Paschim Medinipur by Paul and Chanda and that was an accidental occurrence of the species in the fish catch from Garhbeta, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal, India. Present report is the outcome of an extensive fish faunal survey throughout the district to ensure the occurrence of Amblyceps mangois in the study area and result depicts that the species is restricted in the northern portion of the district and its habitat is in slow running water ways like rivers and streams with pebble bedded. The species inhibit in harsh environmental condition and expend more energy as its habitat is in hill streams ecosystems. It is an air breathing fish and prefers aquatic insect as daily diet. The species is benthic and reside in between gravels of river beds. Though IUCN listed it a least concern category but the species is very rare and confined in the north-western part of Paschim Medinipur district. Fishery importance of the species is not known in the study area and it is available along with other small fishes in the markets.

Short communication | Published online : 08-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1831–1834
Devendra Kumar Singh*1,2, M. Anwar Mallick2 and Binay K. Singh3
1, 3 ICAR – Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology, Ranchi - 834 003, Jharkhand, India 2 University Department of Biotechnology, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribagh - 825 001, Jharkhand, India
Abstract
Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), an economically and nutritionally important fruit, contains many healthy ingredients required to achieve nutritional security for the rapidly growing population. A draft genome sequence of A. heterophyllus is available in the public domain with minimal characterization. In the present study, we identified 19,934 genic-SSRs using the genomic location of the genes known in the reference genome. The detailed analysis of genic-SRRs showed that out of 19,934 genic-SSRs, 3,510 and 16,424 were located in the coding (CDS) and intronic part of the genes, respectively. It was found that trinucleotide repeat was the most predominant class (89%) in CDS-derived SSRs, while dinucleotide repeats (56.4%) were dominant in intronic SSRs. 491 and 321 distinct repeat motifs were present in intronic- and CDS-derived SSRs. GAA/TTC was the most abundant trinucleotide repeat motif with a frequency of 8.72% in CDS-derived SSRs, whereas AT/AT was the most abundant dinucleotide repeat motif with a frequency of 18.66 % in intronic SSRs.

Research Article | Published online : 12-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1835–1838
S. Nishra Banu*1 and C. M. Noorjahan2
1-2 PG & Research Department of Zoology, Justice Basheer Ahmed Sayeed College for Women (Autonomous), Teynampet, Chennai - 600 018, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Water is the most important substance required for life on the earth. But today good quality water has become a scarce commodity. The poor quality of water affects human health. Thus, it is an urgent need to monitor the water quality regularly. The variety of microbial populations and activities of these microbes are influenced by the chemical, physical and biological characteristics of particular water as well as the presence of growing aquatic plants. Microorganisms are always present in water which may be pathogenic or non – pathogenic. Pathogenic forms include various species of bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoans. Further, the interaction of water and microorganisms help in the biochemical purification of wastewater in silt places and in biological ponds. Hence the present investigation was carried out to determine Fungal diversity in a freshwater lake located in Perungudi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Freshwater samples for the study were collected from two different sites of Perungudi Lake, Tamil Nadu, India for 1 year from January 2019 to November 2019 with an interval of 1 month. The water samples were examined for Total fungal count and Identification of fungal species. In Perungudi Site 1 the total count of fungi was high as 11.7 × 102 CFU/ml during January 2019 and less than 0.33 × 102 CFU/ml in July, September and November 2019 in site 2 during the period of study. This variation in fungal count in site 1 of the Perungudi lake is due to the environmental and climatic conditions of the lake site which may affect the zooplankton and Phytoplankton of the freshwater.

Research Article | Published online : 12-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1839–1841
Rajsekhar Pramanik*1, Ishwari Prasad Gupta2 and Nandita Bhakat3
1-2 University Department of Botany, Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University, Ranchi - 834 008, Jharkhand, India 3 Narajole Raj College, Narajole, Paschim Medinipur -721 211, West Bengal, India
Abstract
Sacred groves are small patch of area near tribal village or forest where some religious deties are devoted and may be regarded as holy place whose spiritual values are infinitive that may be a place of heart to conclude natures made eco-teritory under micro climatic condition. This is a conservation strategy made by tribal people from ancient age. The two very old aged sacred grooves in Purulia District of West Bengal are noticed and analyzed ecologically, economically and taxonomically. These are treated as conservatory and man-made nursery. The present study is initiated in two ancient (approx 800-year-old) sacred groves of Purulia district of West Bengal at Budhpur and Pakhbidra for sustainable management of some rare plants and ethno medicinal importance of those plants found in those sacred groves.

Short communication | Published online : 13-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1842–1848
C. B. Jamdade*1 and R. D. Bodare2
1 Sadguru Gadage Maharaj College, Karad - 415 124, Maharashtra, India 2 Prof. Dr. N. D. Patil Mahavidyalaya, Malkapur, Perid - 415 101, Maharashtra, India
Abstract
Antioxidants prevents damage caused by various Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). P. granatum is an ancient fruit and possess the lots of therapeutical significance due to the presence of various phytochemical constituents like tannins, alkaloids, glycosides, volatile oils, flavonoids and resins, gums. Therefore, the present work was carried out to check hepatoprotective and renoprotective potency of methanolic extract of Punica granatum peel. To evaluate ameliorative effect, male albino mice (Mus musculus L.) were divided into four groups viz, a) Control group-received 0.5 ml d/w orally for 15 days. b) Toxicated group- received dimethoate 15mg/kg body weight orally /day for 15 days. c) PPME group-received 200mg/kg body weight of pomegranate peel methanolic extract for 15 days. d) Treated group-received dimethoate for 15 days and then after Pomegranate peel extract 200mg/kg body weight for 15 days. The histological study showed hepatocellular hypertrophy, karyomegaly and increased number of Kuffer cells in liver and glomerular shrinkage (Glomeruloaclerosis), tubular dilatation, hypertrophy, Tubular atrophy in aged Kidney as compared to control. While treated group showed recovery in liver and kidney tissue. Thus, above results elucidate the protective effect of pomegranate peel against aging in liver and kidney of aged mice.

Research Article | Published online : 15-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1849–1853
M. Kiruthika*1 and A. Victoria2
1-2 Department of Chemistry, Arignar Anna Government Arts College, Musiri - 621 211, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
A mononuclear manganese(II) complex [Mn(atpy)2](ClO4)2 (1) where atpy is the tridentate ligand 4'-(anthracenyl-2,2':6',2''-terpyridine has been synthesized. Spectral techniques such as UV-Vis, FT-IR and ESI-MS were employed to characterize the compound. The compound showed a broad ligand to metal charge transfer transition in the 354 nm, according to the electronic spectra. The antimicrobial exercises of the ligand and its complex has additionally been done.

Research Article | Published online : 16-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1854–1860
Kalyansing B. Patil1, Jitendra L. Patil2, Sumersing I. Patil3, Anil B. Patil4, Ambalal B. Chaudhari5 and Bal Krishna*6
1,4 Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd., Jain Valley, Shirsoli Road, Jalgaon, Maharashtra, India 2 Jain Tissue Culture Park, Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd., Takarkheda, Jalgaon, Maharashtra, India 3,6 Plant Molecular Biology Lab, Jain R&D Lab, Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd., Agri Park, Jain Hills, Shirsoli Road, Jalgaon, Maharashtra, India 4 School of Life Sciences, Kavayitri Bahinabai Chaudhari Maharashtra University, Jalgaon, Maharashtra, India
Abstract
Pomegranate is a unique crop due to its drought tolerance capacity and pharmaceutical and nutraceutical values. It has special economic importance among fruit crop of arid and semi-arid regions. Area under pomegranate has been growing in India. In the Indian tropics pomegranate crop is severely affected by bacterial blight and several other fungal and bacterial diseases. Disease free new plantation can be established only if high quality planting material is available. Tissue culture offers the possibility of propagating disease-free pomegranate plantlets but success rate of transplanting in vitro plants to field is a challenge. Light, temperature, humidity and growing media play an important role in the acclimatization process. An effort was made to standardize a commercial secondary acclimatization process for in vitro propagated pomegranate plants. The secondary acclimatization experiments involved light conditions and growing substrates which help in controlling growing environment especially light, temperature and water relations. In this study, pomegranate plants subjected to three light cut off treatments (30%, 45% and 70%) in combination with four different growing substrates (M1, M2, M3 and M4). Treatment receiving average 282.72 micro mole /m2/sec natural light (21.81% total light) and growing substrate with a mixture of peat and cocopeat gave better plant growth and success in acclimatization.

Research Article | Published online : 17-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1861–1868
T. M. A. Niveditha*1
1 Department of Botany, Dr. V. S. Krishna Government Degree College (A), Visakhapatnam - 530 022, Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract
Forests are vital resources for the survival of many ethnic communities in any part of the world. The present study reported the utilization of 18 parts of 105 wild edible plant species (WEPs) by the tribes of Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh, India viz., Jatapu, Kapu Savara, Konda Savara and Gadaba etc., belonging to 49 families. Savaras and Gadabas are considered as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (P.V.T.G). Analysis of plant life forms revealed that tree species are represented with the highest percentage i.e., 43% followed by climbers and herbs with 22%, shrubs with 12% and thallus with 1%. Analysis of eaten state by tribals showed the dominance of 60 plant species (53%) eaten in raw state, 47(41%) species as cooked, 3 (3%) species in roasted state, 2 (3%) species eaten soaked and each (1%) in boiled and burnt form. Although these wild edible plants play an important role in food security, they are ignored. These are popularized by introducing them into home gardens, agricultural fields of farmers in plain areas and by establishing Wild edible plant species parks by the Government of India.

Research Article | Published online : 19-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1869–1872
R. Sivakami*1 and P. Balasubramanian2
1 PG & Research Department of Zoology, Arignar Anna Government Arts College, Musiri, Tiruchirappalli - 621 211, Tamil Nadu, India 2 PG & Research Department of Zoology, Government Arts college (Autonomous), Kumbakonam - 612 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
To feed the exploding human populations, aquaculture has been suggested as a way to provide cheap protein on a large scale. However, of late, microbial examination of fish organs have revealed the presence of potential disease-causing bacteria. Hence a study was done to assess the bacterial composition in the various organs of three species of fish living in the Cauvery River from Mukkombu region of Tiruchirappalli, India. Study revealed the presence of 14 bacterial species. There were potentially disease-causing microbes like Vibrio, Salmonella, Shigella, E. coli, Enterococcus etc. The presence of their pathogens indicates the need for passing string out laws as well as creating awareness so that fish borne diseases can be controlled. A notable feature recorded in the present study was that the skin recorded the highest bacterial load in all the three fishes examined.

Short communication | Published online : 20-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1873–1874
P. Ravindranath Reddy*1, D. Dhanasekaran2 and R. Nagaraju3
1-3 Government Degree College, Srikakulam (District), Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University, Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract
Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) belonging to the Asteraceae family that ranks among the top ten cut flowers of the world. The use of plant growth regulators has brought a revolution in the floriculture industry and has been found to be of great significance in the commercial cultivation of flower crops. Hence, an experiment was formulated to study the effect of plant growth regulators and humic acid on growth and flower yield of gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) var. Ankur. The experiment was carried out in Avalapalli, Hosur, Tamil Nadu in the farmers field during the period 2017-2020. Planting materials were procured from KF Bio plants, Pune, which was in healthy condition with two leaf stage in pro-trays with cocopeat medium. The experiment consisting of nine treatments with two growth promoters (GA3, Triacontanol), two retardants (Alar and Maleic hydrazide), two new generation stimulants (Campesterol + Stigmasterol and Nitrobenzene) and two amino acid and sea weed extract combinations. All the treatments were added with humic acid @ 2000 ppm were imposed as foliar application at 30 days interval. Observations on plant spread, number of leaves, leaf length, leaf width, leaf area, Number of flowers, days to first flower, flower diameter and stalk length were taken at 180 days after planting. From the experiment, it was concluded that, foliar application of GA3 @ 300 ppm along with Humic acid @ 2000 ppm was found to increase the growth and flower yield of gerbera under poly house conditions.

Short communication | Published online : 20-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1875–1880
Y. Thanga Kiruba1, S. Valarmathi2 and R. Sivakami*3
1-3 PG and Research Department of Zoology, Arignar Anna Government Arts College, Musiri, Tiruchirappalli - 621 211, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
An important component in an aquatic system is plankton which serve as a key group for energy production their growth, abundance and diversity reflect on the density and diversity of other systems organisms in that system. Hence the present study was attempted to analyze the density and diversity of plankters living in a fresh water temporary lentic system located in Kulumani Village, Tiruchirappalli District of Tamil Nadu, India. A total of 44 plankters (25 Phytoplankton and 19 Zooplankton) could be Identified. The phytoplankton belonged to 4 groups and zooplankton to 5 groups. Each group appeared to prefer a certain period of time to recorded their highest group count. Highest diversity was recorded in the hotter periods. This is probably attributed to favorable climatic, physico-chemical variables and nutrient loading.

Research Article | Published online : 21-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1881–1885
S. Sujatha1 and E. Thirumal*2
1-2 Department of Physics, Faculty of Arts and Science, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai - 600 073, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Nanocrystalline Ni particles were synthesized by chemical reduction and coated with silica layer by a modified Stöber process. X-ray diffraction patterns of the samples showed an average size of 18 nm for the Ni nanocrystals. The coated particles exhibited improved thermal stability. The magnetic hysteresis established the ferromagnetic behaviour and an increased coercivity for the nanocomposite. The impedance measurement showed activation energy of 1.3 eV and decrease in dc conductivity with temperature. The high dielectric constant over a wide frequency range is explained as a consequence of concentration of Ni much higher than the percolation threshold. The conductivity mechanism is dominated by tunneling at low frequency and electron hopping at high frequencies. The material suffers a low loss in high frequency range, making it suitable for high frequency magnetic applications.

Research Article | Published online : 22-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1886–1889
Hemanta Saha*1
1 Department of Botany, Suri Vidyasagar College, Suri - 731 101, Birbhum, West Bengal, India
Abstract
Present investigation deals with the flowering phenology, pollen production, flower visitor interaction, pollen dispersal and pollination of a highly economic important crop plant Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench. belonging to the family Malvaceae. Flowering occurred in between April - October, which are yellowish, actinomorphic flowers open in morning (05:00am to 06:30am) and anther dehiscence takes place transversely after flower opening. In average a single anther produces 1250 pollen grains. After flower opening large number of insects come in contact with flower like member of Hymenoptera (Ant, Apis cerana indica, Pithitis sp.), Lepidoptera (Borbo sp.) and member of Diptera. The style is surrounded by a staminal column which bears large number of anthers. The pollen grains come in contact with the stigmas around the throat of the staminal column. It has been found experimentally that there is significant difference in fruit set under open-pollinated (75%) and bagging (45%). Bagging result indicates the self-pollination and open-pollinated fruit set shows insects are helpful for cross-pollination and fertilization because the flowers are very attractive to the flower visitors.

Research Article | Published online : 23-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1890–1895
Sangita Khewa Subba1, Ritesh Biswa2 and Mayukh Sarker*3
1 Department of Zoology, Siliguri College, District Darjeeling - 734 010, West Bengal, India 2 Department of Zoology, General Degree College at Gorubathan, District Kalimpong, West Bengal, India 3 Department of Zoology, APC Roy Government College, Matigara, District Darjeeling, West Bengal, India
Abstract
Eight facultative anaerobic bacteria were isolated from the gut of termite, Odentotermes obesus (Rambur). The isolates were initially identified as Streptococcus, Pseudomonas and Enterobacter sp. by using selective media. Study established their role in cellulose degradation. The isolates E3A, E3D of Enterobactor, S2B, S2Dand S2F of Streptococcus showed positive growth on cellulose Congo-Red agar media. Cellulose degrading potential of the isolates was qualitatively estimated by calculating their hydrolyzing capacity. The total cellulose activity on filter paper was found to be highest with 0.410 IU/ml for E3D and the lowest was 0.250 IU/ml for S2F.

Research Article | Published online : 26-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1896–1900
R. Nathiya1 and K. Prabu*2
1 Department of Biochemistry, Ind-American College (Sacred Heart College (Autonomous), Tirupattur - 635 601, Cheyyar Tamil Nadu, India 2 PG and Research Department of Biochemistry, Sacred Heart College (Autonomous), Tirupattur - 635 601, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The adsorption process by silver nanoparticles has been investigated an effective agent for removing selective heavy metals from the industrial wastewater. In this study, silver nanoparticles were synthesized in the presence of Aerva lanata leaf extract as adsorbent for copper and Zinc ions removal from industrial waste water solution. silver nanoparticles prepared by co-precipitation method and Aerva lanata leaf extract was used to prevent accumulation and reduce the diameter of the particles. Silver nanoparticles were characterized by Scanning Electron microscope (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Effect of various parameters such as contact time, pH, metal concentration and adsorbent dosage was determined on the removal efficiency by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Based on the present investigation, it could be concluded that some low-cost materials like Aerva lanata silver nanoparticles can be used efficiently in the removal of Heavy metal ions (Cu2+ and Zn2+) from effluent. The removal of heavy metal ion was pH dependent as the adsorption capacity increases with increasing the pH value of the solution, and at a particular pH the order of increasing the removal percentage was Zn2 ˂ Cu2+. Experimental results showed that the best pH was 4 and time was 90 min. The metal ions showed different behaviors towards on Aerva lanata silver nanoparticles by increasing the initial concentration of the metal ions. The copper and zinc ions are usually soluble in acidic pH and the maximum removal of cadmium by green synthesis silver nanoparticles was obtained in the pH of 4, so these nanoparticles can be a good adsorbent for the removal of heavy metal removal from wastewater.

Research Article | Published online : 26-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1901–1905
S. Siva Shankar Prasad1 and D. Easwaramoorthy*2
1-2 Department of Chemistry, B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Vandalur - 600 048, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Lanthanum doped with copper oxide nanoparticles with size ranging from 20 to 100 nm and 10 µm length were prepared by reacting copper nitrate with Lanthanum oxide. The structure of the nanoparticles was confirmed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. Photocatalytic activity of the insecticides imidacloprid and bifenthrin was investigated. The decontamination effect of catalyst on the residues of imidacloprid and bifenthrin in water was evaluated in three different buffer solutions (pH 4.0, 7.0 and 9.0). The catalytic reaction was measured under direct sunlight at two different concentration levels of Imidacloprid and Bifenthrin. The optimum concentration of catalyst (lanthanum doped copper-oxide) required for the decontamination was found to be 0.05 g/L. Residues were quantified by ultra-fast High-Performance liquid chromatography method (UHPLC-PDA). Parameters, DT50 and DT90 were calculated from the dissipation data. The rate of the reaction showed first order kinetics in water. The addition of Lanthanum doped with copper oxide nanoparticles contributed to significant photocatalytic dissipation of residues. Complete mineralization of the residues was confirmed by the ultra-fast high-performance liquid chromatography. The method has the limit of quantification 0.01 mg/L in water.

Research Article | Published online : 27-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1906–1911
Deepika E1 and Santhy K. S.*2
1-2 Department of Zoology, School of Biosciences, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore - 641 043, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The accumulation of free radicals in the body leads to many diseases due to oxidative stress. Numerous studies are currently being conducted to prevent oxidative stress and neutralize the effects of free radicals by antioxidants primarily of plant origin rather than synthetic ones. Hygrophila auriculata belonging to the family Acanthaceae was used in this study to assess the phytochemical constituents, free radical scavenging ability, and the amount of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Four solvents, namely ethanol, ethyl acetate, chloroform, and water, were taken to extract Hygrophila auriculata root. Preliminary phytochemical analysis was carried out by adopting the standard protocol. Further, the free radical scavenging activity was assessed against two radicals, DPPH and FRAP, along with the reducing power ability. The enzymatic antioxidants include superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, and non-enzymatic antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, and total phenols were assessed. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, sterols, phenols, saponins, tannins, proteins, carbohydrates, cardiac glycosides, and terpenoids firmly in the ethanol extract compared to all other solvents. The free radical scavenging activity showed a maximum scavenging power in the ethanol extract. The scavenging efficacy of DPPH and ABTS was 89.53 and 85.71%, respectively, at 100 μg/ml. Similarly, the reducing power was highest at the dose of 100 μg/ml. The ethanol extract possesses enzymatic antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (111.3 ± 3.21 Units/mg), peroxidase (0.34 ± 2.11 Units/mg), catalase (4.53 ± 0.9 Units/mg), polyphenol oxidase (0.4 ± 0.01 μg/g), glutathione-S-transferase (2.3 ± 0.5 μg/g) and non-enzymatic antioxidants such as flavonoids (243.40 ± 1.23 mg/g), α – tocopherol (32.3 ± 0.18 μg/g), vitamin – C (2.93 ± 0.02). Thus, our findings suggest that roots of Hygrophila auriculata have the potential to scavenge the free radicals and prevent oxidative stress-related diseases, which pave the way for the plant to serve as a good phytotherapeutic agent against many diseases and disorders.

Research Article | Published online : 27-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1912–1916
Y. Thanga Kiruba1, S. Valarmathi2 and R. Sivakami*3
1-3 PG and Research Department of Zoology, Arignar Anna Government Arts College, Musiri, Tiruchirappalli - 621 211, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The biotic component of an aquatic ecosystem is strongly related to diversity, abundance and seasonality of zooplankton. They play an important role in an aquatic food chain as they are consumed by most fishes and other organisms. Hence the present study was aimed at analyzing the zooplankton community structure during the different season of a year in a fresh water system at Ayilapettai, Tiruchirappalli District in Tamil Nadu, India. A total of 26 zooplankters would be identified belonging to four groups. Of these four groups, Rotifer dominated (15 species) followed by Copepoda and Cladocera (4 species each) and Ostracoda (3 species). Of the three seasons, the highest group count was recorded in the summer season. Individually, rotifers, cladocerans and copepods recorded highest counts during the summer season. While ostracods recorded their highest counts during the winter/rainy season. The abundance and diversity appeared to increase with diversity values. The growth and composition of zooplankton were defendant on physic chemical variables, nutrients and local environmental conditions.

Research Article | Published online : 28-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1917–1923
Victoriya Manoranjitham1, Rajpal Shripat Hande2 and Jayaprada Rao Chunduri*3
1,3 Department of Biotechnology, SVKM’s Mithibai College of Arts, Chauhan Institute of Science and Amruthben Jivanlal College of Commerce and Economics, Vile Parle, Mumbai - 400 056, Maharashtra, India 2 Department of Zoology, SVKM’s Mithibai College of Arts, Chauhan Institute of Science and Amruthben Jivanlal College of Commerce and Economics, Vile Parle, Mumbai - 400 056, Maharashtra, India
Abstract
Industrialization and urbanization have intensified the pollution of soil and aquatic ecosystems with multiple heavy metals and co-contaminants, including antibiotics. Microbes in such stressful environments develop unique strategies to survive in such stressful environments and evolve with resistance to multiple metals. Using these organisms to bioremediate multiple metals simultaneously will be a sustainable and cost-effective approach. The present study investigated the bioremediation capabilities of multiple metal-resistant bacteria from sediments at Mahim Creek. A mucoid colony forming bacteria resistant to Cd, Cr and Pb was selected and characterized morphologically and biochemically. Molecular identification through 16srRNA sequencing revealed the organism to be Kosakonia radicincitans. MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) of the organism was found to be 70 ppm for Cr, 100 ppm for Cd and 800 ppm for Pb. Study of the growth pattern of the bacteria was carried out in the presence and absence of the heavy metals. Its bioremediation capability was explored using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopic analysis and was found to have higher reduction efficiency for Cr and Pb than Cd. The organism also exhibited resistance to multiple antibiotics and showed an MAR (Multiple Antibiotic Resistance) index of 0.685.

Research Article | Published online : 30-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1924–1927
Sagar Gajre*1 and Ganapati B. Sinnoor2
1-2 Department of Business Studies, Central University of Karnataka, Kalaburagi - 585 367, Karnataka, India
Abstract
Onion (Allium cepa) which is considered to be a major vegetable in daily consumption of human being. Onion is grown across the globe and India stands in the second position in production. The paper attempts to examine the growth in area, production and productivity of onion crop in Karnataka state and also highlights on prices prevailing in the wholesale market and retail market of Kalabuargi city. It was evidenced there was a negative growth rate in productivity during the study period due to major pest incidence among the crop with rot disease and leaf blight infection. The producer share in consumer rupee was an average of 60 per cent indicating that left over is retained by various stake holders which includes the marketing cess and marketing costs associated with onion marketing. The government need to intervene and create awareness among the farmers about new high yielding, disease resistant variaties as well as importance of direct marketing through various channels.

Research Article | Published online : 30-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1928–1933
Hanuman Sahay Meena*1 and Rekha Vijayvergia2
1-2 Department of Botany, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur -302 004, Rajasthan, India
Abstract
In the contemporary study, a Double Beam UV-Vis spectrophotometer was used to measure in vitro radical scavenging activity percentage and ascorbic acid contents in some selected Chenopodium species. Ascorbic acid content of some selected Chenopodium species was determined by the 2,4-Dinnitrophenylhydrazine method (DNPH). The DPPH methodology was utilized to determine the percentage of radical scavenging activity in the extract of Chenopodium species. The obtained results were denoted as mean ± standard deviation values. The maximum vitamin C amount in Chenopodium giganteum leaves was found to be 161.20 ± 0.008 mg/0.4g FW and the minimum was 51.07 ± 0.011 mg/0.4g FW in Chenopodium giganteum root. The leaves of Chenopodium species have had the highest percentage of radical scavenging activity. The obtained results were indicating that Chenopodium species are potential sources of natural antioxidants and vitamin C.

Research Article | Published online : 31-Dec-2022

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 13 - Issue : 6 ; 1934–1940
Manoj Khaund1 and Bimal Deb Nath*2
1-2 Department of Management, North-Eastern Hill University, Tura Campus, Meghalaya, India
Abstract
Small enterprises are important in developing a State in general and a Nation in particular. Small businesses are the driving force for an economy. They not only provide revenue but also act in all-round regional development, increasing the standard of living of the rural people, thereby contributing significantly towards the upliftment and development of the rural economy at large. Despite being vital for an economy, small enterprises have to suffer many problems. These problems hamper the growth of small businesses, thereby making them sick units. These problems of small enterprises are more or less similar in all developing countries including India. In India, previous studies confirm that the major requirements of small enterprises are still unresolved to a large extent, eventually hampering small businesses' growth. These problems are more prevalent in the Northeastern region of India compared to the rest of the country. Being industrially backward, the economic contribution of small enterprises of NER, India is considerably low. Thus, the present study explores the requirements of small enterprises in accessing funds, marketing of products and services, and usage of technology in select states of NER, India. The study conducted the exploratory factor analysis to investigate the major requirements of small enterprises in the region. Consequently, the study facilitates an in-depth understanding of the issues surrounding small enterprises in financial, marketing, and technological aspects and highlights major requirements of small enterprises in the context of the North Eastern Region of India. Finally, the study suggests that the overall growth and development of small enterprises may be enhanced if these requirements of the small enterprises are addressed and fulfilled.

Research Article | Published online : 31-Dec-2022