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

© CARAS (Centre for Advanced Research in Agricultural Sciences)
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Volume- 15 - November-December 2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1219–1226
Ajaz A. Shah*1
1 Department of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
The Kashmir Valley's temperate climate presents unique challenges and opportunities for Rabi crop cultivation. This study investigates how local farmers are adapting to the region's extended cold spells and unpredictable weather by adopting cold-resistant crop varieties and optimized cultivation practices. Key Rabi crops, including wheat, mustard, oats, peas, and saffron, are analyzed for their resilience to frost and their contributions to food security and economic stability in the valley. Improved mustard and oat varieties exhibit high resistance to freezing temperatures, while saffron and peas demonstrate significant economic and nutritional importance. These adaptive strategies underscore the Valley's agricultural resilience, ensuring sustainable yields under harsh conditions. Agriculture in the Kashmir Valley encounters severe winter challenges, including prolonged frost, sub-zero temperatures, and heavy snowfall, all of which disrupt crop and livestock productivity. These harsh conditions delay germination, stifle plant growth, and restrict nutrient uptake, while extended snow cover limits sunlight exposure, essential for early crop development. Cold temperatures also strain livestock management, raising feed demands and increasing health issues. To combat these adverse effects, local agricultural initiatives promote cold-resistant and frost-tolerant crop varieties such as Sabzar and SFO-1 oats, and mustard varieties like SS-II and COS 101. These improved varieties are bred for resilience, faster growth cycles, and higher yields, enabling more reliable agricultural returns even in extreme winter conditions. By adopting these cold-adaptive varieties, farmers can enhance productivity, economic stability, and the sustainability of agricultural practices within the Valley’s challenging environment.

Ajaz A. Shah*1 Click here to download file

Research Review | Published online : 04-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1227–1232
Kandasamy1, R. E. Arivazhagan2 and E. Archana Devi*3
1-3 Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
A field experiment was conducted at Vegetable Yard, Department of Horticulture, Annamalai University, Chidambaram during the year 2024 with objects to influence the plant growth regulators on growth and yield of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) var. priyanka. The experiment was carried out in randomized block design with three replications and ten treatments viz., three concentration each of NAA (50, 100 and 200 ppm), ethrel (125, 250 and 500 ppm), CCC (100, 200 and 400ppm) with control. Observations recorded on different growth and yield characters showed significant differences among different treatments. With regard to growth characters, application of NAA @ 200 ppm significantly increased the vine length, while CCC @ 400 ppm produced maximum number of branches vine-¹. The result of this experiment revealed that the plants sprayed with CCC @ 100 ppm showed the earliest days to first male flowering, whereas ethrel @ 250 ppm showed the earliest days to first female flowering. In case of node number of first male flower, CCC @ 100 ppm recorded least node number of first male flower, while ethrel @ 250 ppm showed least node number of first female flower. Maximum number of male flowers vine-¹ was observed in the control followed by application of NAA @ 50 ppm, whereas ethrel @ 250 ppm produced maximum number of female flowers vine-¹ as well as the lowest sex ratio. Fruit length was found to be maximum in plants sprayed with NAA @ 200 ppm. In case of fruit girth, the biggest fruit was observed in CCC @ 400ppm. Application of Ethrel @ 250 ppm was found to record maximum average fruit weight, number of fruits vine-¹ and yield vine-¹. The highest net return and benefit cost ratio as exhibited in ethrel @ 250 ppm. Among the different treatments, ethrel @ 250 ppm was found to be superior to other treatments in increasing yield potential of Bitter gourd.

Kandasamy1, R. E. Arivazhagan2 and E. Archana Devi*3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 05-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1233–1236
Abhishek B. S.*1 and Rohith L. Shankar2
1-2 Silkworm Breeding Laboratory, Department of Sericulture, Yuvaraja’s, College, University of Mysore, Mysuru - 570 005, Karnataka, India
Abstract
A comparative assessment of key economic traits was conducted between six parental bivoltine breeds of the silkworm Bombyx mori L., namely APS12, J2, CSR53, A3, H281 and RB18 and their hybrids, prepared by crossing them in various combinations and named as YCM1, YCM2, YCM3, YCM4, YCM5, YCM6, YCM8, YCM9, YCM11, YCM13, YCM14, YCM15, YCM16 and YCM17. The hybrids were reared in three replications following standard procedures, revealed a significant positive correlation among the hybrids for various traits. The superiority of the hybrids over their parental breeds was demonstrated, with hybrid YCM8 showing higher values for fecundity, effective rate of rearing (ERR), larval weight, cocoon weight, shell weight, pupal weight, pupation rate, filament length, denier and raw silk percentage. Additionally, hybrid YCM4 exhibited a higher hatching percentage than the other hybrids and parental races. Notably, all hybrids studied exhibited varying expressions of economic traits compared to the parental breeds, excelling in five or more traits considered for the present study.

Abhishek B. S.*1 and Rohith L. Shankar2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 06-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1237–1239
A. Senthil1 and K. P. Vanetha*2
1 Subject Matter Specialist (Agricultural Extension), ICAR- Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Karaikal - 609 601, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, India 2 Agricultural College and Research Institute, Kurukkathi - 611 105, Keezhvelur, Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Pulses are one of the major crops in Karaikal District. Rice fallow pulses (black gram and green gram) are cultivated both in the Rabi and summer seasons. Cluster FLD is a unique project implemented using the cluster approach method. Under this Cluster FLD, the newly released black and green gram varieties were demonstrated, along with a full package of practices adopted in the selected farmers’ fields to demonstrate the potentiality of the technologies. During 2020-21, 2021-22, and 2022-23, the CFLD blackgram and greengram was adopted in all major villages of Karaikal district. An interview schedule was well constructed with the help of experts to measure the adoption level of improved pulses production technologies before and after implementation of the cluster FLD programme. after implementation of the cluster FLD program, above 90 percent of the participants adopted the improved high-yielding pulse varieties like VBN 8, CO-8, and WGG-42 and followed seed treatment techniques to avoid the infestation of soil-borne pathogens.

A. Senthil1 and K. P. Vanetha*2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 07-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1240–1245
Nikki B. W.*1 and Betsy Bai S2
1 Research Scholar, Register No: 20113152032014, Department of Chemistry and Research Centre, S. T. Hindu College Nagercoil - 629 002, (Affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Abhishekapatti - 627 012, Tirunelveli), Tamil Nadu, India 2 Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry and Research Centre, S. T. Hindu College Nagercoil - 629 002, (Affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Abhishekapatti - 627 012, Tirunelveli), Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Common salt plays a major role in the global economy particularly in domestic utility (J.C. Hocquet et al., 1987, L.G.M. Bass Becking, 1931) Salt is crucial for physiological activities of humans, which emphasize the importance in having the knowledge of solar salt-pans. During the salt production, equal quantity of unwanted and unavoidable toxic material, i.e., bittern is being discharged. As the bittern is enriched with magnesium, sulphate, calcium, potassium etc. and also traces metals other than the usual ions like sodium and chloride, it can either be used as such as fertilizer or can be transformed into various useful solid fertilizers. As predominantly having magnesium, bittern was tried as a fertilizer as such and in the form of solid fertilizer to magnesium demanding crop like green chillies.

Nikki B. W.*1 and Betsy Bai S2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 08-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1246–1250
Merlin Abraham*1, Sunil A. Nair2, Mini Raj N3, P. Anitha4, Vikram H. C.5 and Sajitha Vijayan M6
1-4 Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic Crops, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India 5 Pepper Research Station, Panniyur, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India 6 Department of Agricultural Statistics, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India
Abstract
An investigation was conducted to identify Alleppey Finger Turmeric (AFT) a traded local turmeric genotype cultivated in central districts of Kerala. These genotypes have a consistent demand in the Northern American and European continents due to their natural orange-yellow colour and curcumin content. However, in view of the meagre production of the AFT in the niche areas and its growing demand for export has necessitated identification and purification of existing germplasm. With this background, an investigation was done by evaluating twenty-eight genotypes for evaluation of growth and yield parameters. Wide variation was reported in morphometric and rhizome characters. The highest rhizome yield was obtained in AFT 45 (35.72 tonnes/ha), followed by AFT 21 (32.08 tonnes/ha), AFT 31 (32.04 tonnes/ha) and AFT 12 (31.12 tonnes/ha). Screening of the AFT genotypes revealed seventeen genotypes with zero incidence. High genetic advance and variability were observed in yield and yield contributing characters. The morphometric characters viz., plant height and number of tillers were directly and significantly correlated with rhizome yield. Based on the growth and yield characters, AFT 12, AFT 21, AFT 31 and AFT 45 were found to be promising and can be utilized for future breeding programmes.

Merlin Abraham*1, Sunil A. Nair2, Mini Raj N3, P. Anitha4, Vikram H. C.5 and Sajitha Vijayan M6 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 11-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1251–1256
Sufaid C. T*1, Sunil A. Nair2, Mini Raj N3, P Anitha4, Sangeetha K. S.5 and Sajitha Vijayan M.6
1-5 Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic Crops, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India 6 Department of Agricultural Statistics, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India
Abstract
Cochin ginger, one of the finest traded ginger genotypes is popular in the middle east, Europe and United states of America due to its high Zingiberene (28 to 31 %), fibre, volatile oil content, greenish yellow core colour and flavour components. Due to replacement of this local ginger with other high yielding varieties, the cultivation of Cochin ginger over the years have almost vanished except in some areas. The present investigation was thus carried out to screen the local ginger types for identification of cochin ginger and their rejuvenation in the niche areas of Central Kerala. Twenty-five cochin ginger genotypes were evaluated in Thrissur Kerala during 2023-24. Morphological data recorded for the cochin ginger genotypes showed significant variation for the quantitative traits. Among the genotypes CG 47 (30.92 tonnes/ha) showed the highest rhizome yield followed by CG 46 (25.32 tonnes/ha), CG 27 (25.28 tonnes/ha) and CG 53 (24.36 tonnes/ha). These high yielding genotypes recorded zero incidence of rhizome rot disease and were found to be promising ones. Genotypic correlation coefficients showed a significant positive relationship between fresh rhizome yield and yield components viz., rhizome weight, vegetative traits such as plant height, number of tillers and leaf length. Based on selection index, ranking was done and genotypes CG 47, CG 44, CG 53 and CG 22 were found superior. These four genotypes were identified as ideal cochin ginger genotypes and may be further evaluated as multi-location trials for validation.

Sufaid C. T*1, Sunil A. Nair2, Mini Raj N3, P Anitha4, Sangeetha K. S.5 and Sajitha Vijayan M.6 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 12-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1257–1260
Khusboo Agarwal1, Dimplly Borah2 and Sandeepa Agarwalla*3
1 Department of Botany, Jorhat Kendriya Mahavidyalaya, Jorhat - 785 010, Assam, India 2 Department of Botany, Devi Charan Barua Girls' College, Jorhat - 785 001, Assam, India 3 Department of Botany, Gargaon College, Simaluguri, Sivasagar - 785 686, Assam, India
Abstract
Carbon, as the most abundant element in all living organisms, plays a crucial role in the formation of essential biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates. Green plants act as primary reservoirs of carbon on Earth, contributing significantly to the carbon cycle by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through the process of carbon sequestration. Carbon sequestration undeniably plays a pivotal role in mitigating climate change. In a recent study conducted on the college campus of Jorhat Kendriya Mahavidyalaya, the carbon storage of various plant species was estimated using a meticulous, non-destructive approach. The findings revealed that factors such as tree age, size, canopy cover density and tree species significantly influence carbon storage capacity. Understanding these relationships can aid in optimizing urban carbon sequestration efforts by strategically selecting tree species and enhancing green spaces within urban environments. Among the 11 plant species studied, Terminalia arjuna demonstrated the highest carbon storage accounting for a remarkable 22.06 metric tons of carbon (tC), while Cassia fistula displayed the lowest estimated carbon storage at 0.097 tC. The research aims to assess the contribution of these plants to carbon sequestration by strategically selecting tree species and enhancing green spaces within urban environments.

Khusboo Agarwal1, Dimplly Borah2 and Sandeepa Agarwalla*3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 14-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1261–1265
Anite Titus*1, Sangeetha K. S2, P. Anitha3, P. V. Sindhu4 and K. Pradheep5
1-3 Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal, and Aromatic Crops, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India 4 AICRP on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants and Betelvine, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India 5 ICAR-NBPGR, Regional Station, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, India
Abstract
Eclipta prostrata L., classified within the Asteraceae family, is a well-acknowledged medicinal plant with ethnomedical significance, used in Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha formulations. Traditionally used in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine due to its hair growth potential and other significant pharmacological properties. Different solvent extracts, viz., aqueous, ethanol, and methanol of Eclipta prostrata, were screened for the existence or non-existence of diverse phytochemical compounds in order to identify the right solvent for further studies. Ethanol, followed by methanol, was found to be the best solvent. Also, the total alkaloid, phenol, and saponin contents of Eclipta prostrata leaves were determined to be 2.11 per cent, 41.35 mg g-1, and 2.41 per cent, respectively. The phytochemical profiling of methanolic extracts of the dried whole plant by GC-MS analysis revealed a diverse spectrum of phytochemicals, prominently featuring n-Hexadecanoic Linolenic acid, 10E,12Z-Octadecadienoic acid, and Phytol.

Anite Titus*1, Sangeetha K. S2, P. Anitha3, P. V. Sindhu4 and K. Pradheep5 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 18-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1266–1274
Sangita Basrani*1, Moni Thomas2 and Sadhana Kesharwani3
1, 3 Department of Zoology, Government M. H. College of Science and Home Science, Jabalpur - 482 004, Madhya Pradesh, India 2 Institute of Agri-Business Management, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur- 482 004, Madhya Pradesh, India
Abstract
Broodlac is the key component of lac production. Thus, production and management of broodlac before and after its inoculation on host trees are very crucial. Predators and parasitoids on the broodlac have to be managed through cultural, biological and chemical approaches to avoid lac crop failures. Timely inoculation of brood, its shifting and removal from host trees are essential operations for successful lac production. This review focuses on broodlac management.

Sangita Basrani*1, Moni Thomas2 and Sadhana Kesharwani3 Click here to download file

Research Review | Published online : 20-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1275–1278
Deepa M1, N. Senthil Kumar*2 and N. Yuvaraj Praveen3
1, 3 ICFRE- Institute of Forest Biodiversity, Dulapally Hyderabad - 500 014, Telangana, India 4 ICFRE- IFGTB, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Botanicals act not only as insecticides but also function as antifeedants, oviposition deterrents and ovicides. The biopesticidal property of plant extracts against test insect Achaea janata at different concentrations was done. The insect culture was maintained in a growth chamber in the laboratory at a temperature of 27 ± 2° C, 12: 12 L:D and with 70 ± 5 % RH during the experiment and the data pertaining to overall efficacy of different plant products showed that Tree PAL was significantly more effective than others, followed by Spherathus indicus and Crawl clean which was also proved to be prominent. Efficacy of plant extracts and some developed products used in bringing down the population of test insect was studied in the nursery.

Deepa M1, N. Senthil Kumar*2 and N. Yuvaraj Praveen3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 22-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1279–1287
Nikhil Sharma1 and Sandeep Kumar Singh*2
1-2 Department of Agriculture, Mata Gujri College, Fatehgarh Sahib - 140 406, Punjab, India
Abstract
The present research was conducted in the academic year 2022-23 at Experimental Farm, Kharora, Department of Agriculture, Mata Gujri College, Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab. The experimented design was RBD with 8 treatments i.e. T1 (Absolute control), T2 (100% RDF), T3 (100% RDF + FYM @ 40 t/ha), T4 (100% RDF + Vermicompost @ 10 t/ha), T5 (75% RDF + FYM @ 40 t/ha + Azotobacter @ 5.0 kg ha-1), T6 (75% RDF + Vermicompost @ 10 t/ha + PSB @ 5.0 kg ha-1), T7 (50% RDF + FYM @ 40 t/ha + Azotobacter @ 5.0 kg ha-1), T8 (50% RDF + Vermicompost @ 10 t/ha + PSB @ 5.0 kg ha-1). The maximum plant height (42.78 cm), plant spread (63.05 cm), leaf length (39.22 cm) and leaf breadth at harvest (33.03 cm) was recorded in treatment T4. In yield parameters maximum head weight (1.48 kg) and head yield (66.33 t/ha) was found in treatment T6. In terms of economics, best benefit to cost ratio (3.48) was observed in treatment T2. These results suggested that optimum production of red cabbage can be obtained with treatment T6 in terms of yield and treatment T4 in term of growth parameters.

Nikhil Sharma1 and Sandeep Kumar Singh*2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 25-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1288–1290
Pabitra Adhikary*1, Mrinal Kanti Das2, Monayem Hossain Molla3 and Sukanta Saren4
1-4 Krishi Vigyan Kendra, 24 Parganas (N), WBUAFS, Ashokenagar - 743 223, West Bengal, India
Abstract
A two-year on-farm trial (OFT) was conducted at the Instructional Farm and farmer’s field by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ashokenagar, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India, during the rabi seasons of 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 to evaluate the impact of azotobacter inoculation and sulfur application on the growth, yield, and economic returns of a typical alluvial soil crop. The experiment compared three treatments: Farmer’s Practice (control), Farmer’s Practice + azotobacter + sulphur @ 20 kg/ha, and farmer’s practice + azotobacter + sulphur @ 40 kg/ha. Measurements at 50% flowering indicated significant improvements in leaf area index (LAI) and chlorophyll content with increasing levels of azotobacter and sulfur application. Similarly, basal girth and capitulum diameter showed substantial increases as these treatments were escalated. Seed weight per capitulum, yield (t/ha), oil percentage, and crude protein content also exhibited notable enhancements with higher application rates of azotobacter and sulfur. Economic analysis revealed that both azotobacter and sulfur applications at 40 kg/ha significantly increased gross returns, net returns, and benefit-cost ratio compared to the control and the lower application rate, demonstrating their potential economic viability under local farming conditions.

Pabitra Adhikary*1, Mrinal Kanti Das2, Monayem Hossain Molla3 and Sukanta Saren4 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 27-Nov-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1291–1294
Meena D1 and Mukunda Rao B2
1-2 Agricultural College, Bapatla - 522 101, Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract
A study on functions performed by Water Users Associations in Krishna delta of Andhra Pradesh was carried out by selecting 240 respondents from Krishna delta area. The study mainly focused on the primarily functions that are performed by Water Users Associations, distributory committees and project committees i.e., timely availability of water to crop with the implementation of Warabandhi schedule, resolving of disputes among farmers, maintenance of registers. It also revealed the functions that were partially performed like assistance to revenue department in collection of water rates, maintain feeder channels of minor irrigation tanks and finally the non-performed functions were like avenue plantation on bunds, Conduct general body meetings and water budgeting as prescribed.

Meena D1 and Mukunda Rao B2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 02-Dec-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1295–1298
Ashim Chakravorty*1
1 Department of Botany, Seth Anandram Jaipuria College, 10, Raja Naba Krishna Street, Sovabazar, Kolkata - 700 005, West Bengal, India
Abstract
Present study focusses on regression analysis based on correlation of traits and cause effect analysis in eight promising scented and aromatic landraces of rice collected from the Bagbari village of Kaliganj area of Karimganj district, South Assam. Remarkable variability was found among the trait’s studies. Correlation analysis reflects the strength of the relationship of the characters like number of grains per panicle (r=0.823), 1000grain weight (0.704), leaf breadth (r=0.815), flag leaf angle (0.804), grain length (r=0.700) and grain yield (r=0.410) where they are highly correlated with positive value. Regression analysis revealed the importance of the traits like Leaf length leaf breadth, seedling height, panicle length, grain length/breadth ratio, grain length, number of primary branches per panicle and maturity in days influencing the grain yield remarkably. Important characters which showed highest direct positive effect on grain yield were grain breadth (10.939), leaf length (0.983), grain length/breadth ratio (8.861), grain length (r=0.700) number of primary branches per panicle (0.657) and seedling height (0.589). This study explored the direct selection of the above cited traits which might be selected for grain yield improvement due to their true relationship with the grain yield.

Ashim Chakravorty*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 05-Dec-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1299–1304
Sangita Basrani*1, Moni Thomas2 and Sadhana Kesharwani3
1, 3 Department of Zoology, Government M. H. College of Science and Home Science, Jabalpur - 482 004, Madhya Pradesh, India 2 Institute of Agri-Business Management, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur - 482 004, Madhya Pradesh, India
Abstract
Nutrient management of host plants of lac insects is an important operation for increasing lac production. The mean weight of lac cell is an important parameter to evaluate the resin production by an individual lac insect. In the two-year (2021-22 and 2022-23) field trial with different combinations of NPK, both basal and foliar applications were carried out in lac grower’s field during katki cropon Butea monosperma. The results revealed that the mean weight (g) of 100 lac cells varied from T8(3.06g)-Control to T6 (5.35g)-NPK basal application + three NPK foliar applications. All treatments had significantly higher mean weight (g) of 100 lac cells over T8(3.06g). However, the mean weight (g) of 100 lac cells in treatments T1(5.29g), T5(5.27g), T2(5.20g), T3(5.18g) and T6(5.35g) were at par with each other.

Sangita Basrani*1, Moni Thomas2 and Sadhana Kesharwani3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 10-Dec-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1305–1310
P. S. Sujatha*1 and G. Ganesan2
1-2 PG and Research Department of Zoology, Government Arts College (Autonomous), Coimbatore - 641 018, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Aging is a complex biological process characterized by cellular deterioration, increased oxidative stress, and metabolic dysfunction. Conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and urinary tract infections (UTIs) exacerbate these aging-related processes, leading to heightened cellular senescence. This study evaluates the senolytic effects of Lagerstroemia speciosa leaf extract (LELE) and its active constituents, resveratrol and corosolic acid, on physical and metabolic parameters, which are crucial indicators of anti-aging properties. At baseline, the control group exhibited the highest physical measurement values, followed by the metformin-treated group, while the LELE low-dose group showed a significantly lower value, suggesting an initial effect of LELE. By day 42, all groups exhibited increased physical measurements, with the metformin group showing the highest increase, indicating its effectiveness. The LELE high-dose group also showed a noticeable increase compared to the low-dose group, though these differences were not statistically significant when compared to the control group. Cardiovascular metabolic markers, including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), were also evaluated. The control group’s TC levels did not significantly differ from treatment groups, suggesting that LELE does not contribute to hypercholesterolemia. LELE treatment showed a significant increase in HDL levels, surpassing standard agents like resveratrol and corosolic acid, indicating improved cardiovascular health. Additionally, LELE treatment led to a reduction in LDL levels, suggesting potential anti-aging benefits, although this was not statistically significant. The study demonstrates that Lagerstroemia speciosa and its bioactive compounds, particularly at higher doses, may enhance cardiovascular health and metabolic function, which are critical in mitigating the effects of aging and chronic conditions. These findings highlight the potential of natural interventions in promoting healthy aging and combating age-related metabolic disorders.

P. S. Sujatha*1 and G. Ganesan2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 12-Dec-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1311–1317
Rama Prasad Bhattacharya*1
1 Joint Director of Public Instruction, Education Directorate, Goverment of West Bengal, Bikash Bhavan, 8th Floor, Salt Lake, Kolkata - 700 091, West Bengal, India
Abstract
The present study includes the systematic study of the family of Zingiberaceae of Bihar and Jharkhand States. It is based on study of published literatures, herbarium specimens at Central National Herbarium, Calcutta (CAL) and herbaria of different Colleges and Universities in Bihar and Jharkhand States and the specimens collected by the author from the States. In total, 38 plant species and 2 varieties belonging to 9 genera of the family Zingiberaceae have been recorded. The dominant genera on the basis of number of species (mentioned in the parentheses) are Curcuma (11), Zingiber (6), Hedychium (5), Alpinia (4) and Globba (4). Out of 40 taxa, 13 are cultivated, 9 are common, 5 are rare and 13 are infrequent. Few species are ethnobotanically and medicinally important and few are ornamental garden plants.

Rama Prasad Bhattacharya*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 16-Dec-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1318–1326
Umme Kulsoom*1, Fauzia Naushin1-2, Mudassara Hasan1, Uzma Kafeel1, Saurabh Kumar1 and Fareed Ahmad Khan1
1 Environmental Laboratory, Department of Botany, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh - 202 002, Uttar Pradesh, India 2 Botany Section Women’s College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh - 202 002, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract
Nutrient rich sewage water (SW) is used for crop irrigation and disposal worldwide. Treated (SW) contains several crop toxic heavy metals (HMs). In this study, effects of mixture of four noxious HMs (As, Cd, Hg and Pb) present in Aligarh Muslim University, SW has been determined on the growth, root nodulation and yield of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum- graecum L. cv. PEB) grown in 5” polyvinyl pots filled with composted soil (1:3). 15 days old plants were suspended half way through a pierced lid in 5 rectangular polyvinyl hydroponic systems each filled with 16 L nutrients solution and aqueous mixture of As, Cd, Hg, and Pb in the ratio 1:3:1:15 mg/L (specific to average concentrations present in AMU sewage sludge) in 5 varying concentrations as 0%, 50%, 100%, and 200%, and 300% (T0, T1, T2, T3, T4, respectively). Plants were treated for 105 days from sowing. Growth and biochemical parameters were recorded in 90 days old plants and yield at 120 days. Growth, yield and nodulation of the fenugreek treated with 50% concentration (T1) increased significantly without any adverse effect on root nodulation leading the host crop to continue symbiotic benefits. Effects of T2 - T4 treatments on all plant growth parameters, yield and nodulation were adverse. Dose-effects correlations were strong in curvilinear regression patterns.

Umme Kulsoom*1, Fauzia Naushin1-2, Mudassara Hasan1, Uzma Kafeel1, Saurabh Kumar1 and Fareed Ahmad Khan1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 20-Dec-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1327–1330
Mohanvel P*1, Srinivasa Perumal A. P2 and Thiruppathi M3
1, 3 Department of Agronomy, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India 2 Rice Research Station, Tirur - 602 025, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
A field experiment was carried out during the Kharif, 2023 at the Experimental Farm, Department of Agronomy, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu. The study aimed to find the Impact of fertigation and herbigation on growth and yield of hybrid maize (Zea mays L.). The experiment was structured using a Split Plot Design (SPD) with three replications. The treatments viz., In main plot, M1- 100% RDF by broadcasting, M2- 100% RDF by fertigation, M3- 75% RDF by fertigation, M4- 50% RDF by fertigation. In sub plot, S1- Control (unweeded), S2- Hand weeding Twice (on 20 & 40 DAS), S3- PE application of Mesotrione 40% SC @ 90 g a.i ha-1 on 3 DAS Herbigation + PoE application of Tembotrione 34.4% SC @ 110 g a.i ha-1 on 21 DAS spraying, S4 - PE application of Mesotrione 40% SC @ 90 g a.i ha-1 on 3 DAS Herbigation + PoE application of Topramezone 33.6% SC @ 30 g a.i ha-1 on 21 DAS spraying. Among different fertigation practices, 100% RDF by fertigation (M2) registered the higher growth, yield and yield characters. While different weed management practices, Hand weeding Twice (S2) recorded maximum growth, yield parameters and yield. However, this was statistically comparable with PE application of Mesotrione 40% SC @ 90 g a.i ha-1 on 3 DAS Herbigation + PoE application of Tembotrione 34.4% SC @ 110 g a.i ha-1 on 21 DAS spraying (S3). With respect to Integration of fertigation and weed management, 100% RDF by fertigation and Hand weeding Twice (M2S2) has recorded higher growth, yield and yield attributing characters. Although, it aligned statistically with 75% RDF by fertigation and hand weeding twice (on 20 & 40 DAS) (M3S2), 100% RDF by fertigation and PE application of Mesotrione 40% SC @ 90 g a.i ha-1 on 3 DAS Herbigation + PoE application of Tembotrione 34.4% SC @ 110 g a.i ha-1 on 21 DAS spraying (M2S3) and 75% RDF by fertigation and PE application of Mesotrione 40% SC @ 90 g a.i ha-1 on 3 DAS Herbigation + PoE application of Tembotrione 34.4% SC @ 110 g a.i ha-1 on 21 DAS spraying (M3S3).

Mohanvel P*1, Srinivasa Perumal A. P2 and Thiruppathi M3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 23-Dec-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1331–1337
Mushtaq Ahmad*1
1 Scientist, Mountain Research Centre for Field Crops (MRCFC), SKUAST-Kashmir, Khudwani, Anantnag - 190 025, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
Nine buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) genotypes were evaluated for seed yield stability across seven agro-ecological locations in Ladakh and Kashmir using a farmers' participatory approach during 2020. Combined analysis of variance revealed that genotypes, environments, and genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI) were highly significant (P < 0.01). The AMMI (Additive Main Effect and Multiplicative Interaction) analysis partitioned GEI into significant IPCAs, with IPCA1 and IPCA2 explaining 71.60% and 22.78% of the interaction variance, respectively. The Eberhart and Russell (1966) stability model was employed as the primary analytical framework, identifying genotype G3 (IC-107988) as the most stable and high-yielding (mean = 14.1 g/plant, bi = 1.02, S²di = 0.45). G7 (IC-107984) was the second-best (mean = 13.2 g/plant, bi = 0.98, S²di = 0.92). GGE biplot analysis confirmed two mega-environments, with G3 as the winning genotype for MAR & ES-Kargil, Batalik and Thasgam. Through Participatory Varietal Selection (PVS), farmers across 228 participants consistently ranked G3 first, followed by G7 and G9. After a decade of decline, this integrated approach has revived buckwheat cultivation on over 100 kanals of land in Ladakh within the first year. The combination of the Eberhart and Russell model, AMMI, GGE biplot, and farmer participation provides a robust, validated strategy for rescuing this nutritionally valuable crop from extinction.

Mushtaq Ahmad*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 29-Dec-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1338–1342
Bhavana K. S*1, Sahana S2, Ganesh Prasad T. S.3 and Kiran Kumar R. Patil4
1 P. G. Scholar, Department of Agricultural Extension Education, KSNUAHS, College of Agriculture, School of Post Graduation Studies, Main Campus, Iruvakki, Shivamogga - 577 412, Karnataka, India 2 Professor and Head, Department of Agricultural Extension Education, KSNUAHS, College of Agriculture, School of Post Graduation Studies, Main Campus, Iruvakki, Shivamogga - 577 412, Karnataka, India 3 Assistant Professor, College of Forestry, Ponnampet, Karnataka, India 4 Assistant Professor, Department of Agricultural Economics, KSNUAHS, College of Agriculture, School of Post Graduation Studies, Main Campus, Iruvakki, Shivamogga - 577 412, Karnataka, India
Abstract
Drone technology has emerged as a transforming tool in agriculture, offering significant benefits in improving efficiency, reducing input costs and enhancing crop productivity. In this context, the present study attempts to examine women empowerment through the flagship Central Government initiative Namo Drone Didi, implemented in the year 2023. The study was conducted by considering ten Self-Help Groups (SHGs) effectively functioning in various districts of Karnataka that have availed Namo Drone Didi. Women empowerment was assessed in economic terms by estimating the profitability accrued to Drone Didi’s through renting drones for the application of plant protection chemicals (PPCs) to growers in Karnataka. In addition, an attempt was also made to estimate the economic worthiness of using drones for PPC application. Enterprise budgeting and partial budgeting techniques were employed to ascertain the economic feasibility of drone usage. The results indicated that the selected Drone Didi’s widely used drones for the application of plant protection chemicals to control pests and diseases, predominantly in red gram fields, followed by maize. The Drone Didi’s used drones for pest and disease control over an area of about 350 acres per year, incurred total cost of Rs. 1,22,500.00 and earned a profit over variable cost at Rs. 94,500.00. The net profit accrued was Rs.17,500.00, which was substantial and contributed significantly to the empowerment of women functioning as Drone Didi’s. The economic worthiness of chemical application through drones ranged from Rs. 1165.74 per acre in Maize to Rs. 3426.68 per acre in Red gram. This income has made the women to become economically empowered and encouraged them to take up this as an entrepreneurial activity to have social recognition.

Bhavana K. S*1, Sahana S2, Ganesh Prasad T. S.3 and Kiran Kumar R. Patil4 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 27-Dec-2024

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 15 - Issue : 6 ; 1343–1347
Sahana S1, Ganesh Prasad T. S.*2 and A. V. Swamy3
1 Department of Agricultural Extension Education, College of Agriculture (KSNUAHS), Shivamogga - 577 204, Karnataka, India 2 Keladishivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga - 577 412, Karnataka, India 3 Associate Professor and Farm Superintendent, Inland Fisheries, AHRS Mudigere (KSNUAHS), Shivamogga, Karnataka, India
Abstract
Cage fish farming is emerging as an important alternative aquaculture production system for utilizing inland and coastal water resources and improving the livelihood of small and resource-constrained fish farmers. The present study was conducted in Udupi district of Karnataka to assess the social impact of cage fish farming on the livelihood of fish farmers. Udupi and Kundapura taluks were purposively selected, and a total of 120 cage fish farmers with 3-5 seasons of experience were selected randomly from the identified locations. The social impact was assessed based on six indicators, namely social responsibility, employability skills, conflict resolution, public recognition, decision-making ability and gender equity. Data were collected using structured measures and analyzed using mean, standard deviation and Wilcoxon signed-rank test to compare the situation before and after adoption of cage fish farming. The results revealed a significant positive impact of cage fish farming on all the selected social indicators at the 1 per cent level of significance. Improvement was observed in social responsibility (75.00%), employability skills (72.50%), conflict resolution (90.00%), public recognition (70.00%), decision-making ability (93.33%) and gender equity (87.50%) among the farmers. Overall, all the 120 farmers (100.00%) exhibited a positive social impact following the adoption of cage fish farming. The findings indicate that cage fish farming not only provides an alternative livelihood opportunity and off-season income but also contributes to strengthening the social and decision-making capacities of fish-farming households. Hence, promotion of cage fish farming can be considered an important strategy for improving the livelihood and social well-being of small fish farmers.

Sahana S1, Ganesh Prasad T. S.*2 and A. V. Swamy3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 29-Dec-2024