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

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

Volume- 17 - September-October 2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 5 ; 543–554
Iflah Mushtaq*1, Iram Mushtaq2 and Ajaz A. Shah3
1 Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, Hazaratbal - 190 006, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India 2 Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh - 202 001, Uttar Pradesh, India 3 Department of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare, Kashmir Division, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
The genus Crocus (family Iridaceae) comprises approximately 85-100 species distributed across the Mediterranean, Central and Southern Europe, and Western to Central Asia, where they are adapted to temperate climates with distinct seasonal variations. Among them, Crocus sativus L. (saffron) is a unique sterile triploid species (2n = 3x = 24) of significant economic importance, widely recognized as the world’s most expensive spice. This manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of the taxonomy, origin, cytology, botany, phenology, chemical composition, agro-climatic requirements, cultivation practices, and current challenges associated with saffron. Saffron is believed to have originated through autotriploidy and is propagated exclusively through corms due to its inability to produce viable seeds. Its growth cycle is highly synchronized with seasonal climatic conditions, comprising dormancy, vegetative growth, and flowering phases. The crop thrives in well-drained, calcareous soils under temperate climates, such as those found in the Kashmir valley, which represents the primary saffron-growing region in India. The quality of saffron is determined by key bioactive compounds crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal responsible for its color, taste, and aroma, respectively. Despite its high value, saffron cultivation faces numerous constraints, particularly in Kashmir, including declining productivity, climate variability, inadequate irrigation, soil degradation, disease incidence, and market challenges. Its genetic uniformity and sterility further limit conventional breeding efforts. However, recent advances in molecular markers, biotechnological approaches, improved agronomic practices, and irrigation innovations such as those introduced under the National Saffron Mission have shown potential in enhancing productivity and sustainability. The manuscript highlights the need for an integrated approach combining traditional knowledge with modern scientific interventions to address existing limitations. Emphasis on climate-resilient practices, quality planting material, sustainable soil and water management, and strengthened market linkages will be essential for revitalizing saffron cultivation and ensuring its long-term economic and ecological sustainability.

Iflah Mushtaq*1, Iram Mushtaq2 and Ajaz A. Shah3 Click here to download file

Research Review | Published online : 01-Sep-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 5 ; 555–559
Shabir U Rehman*1, Chander Prakesh Malhotra1, Bupinder Gupta1, Madan Gopal Singh1, Ranjeet Kour1, Ajaz A. Shah2 and Tariq A. Sofi3
1 Integrated Mushroom Development Centre, Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Lal Mandi Srinagar - 190 008, Jammu and Kashmir, India 2 Mushroom Development Assistant, Demonstration cum Training Centre (DCTC), Department of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare, Pulwama - 192 305, Jammu and Kashmir, India 3 Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar - 190 025, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
The study is of great relevance with present day where mushrooms have immunity enhancing properties and they convert agro-wastes into protein rich food. India is having a youth population of about 750 million and mushroom cultivation has good potential for employment and contributes in national income. The key aspects undertaken during research were the cultivation on low-cost substrates viz, wheat straw, willow saw dust and popular saw dust and production and yield attributes of Pleurotus eryngii under controlled mushroom growing room at Integrated Mushroom Development Centre (IMDC). There was much difference in yields with respect to substrates (wheat straw, Willow and popular saw dust utilized during the trial. Mycelium colonized within fifteen days on wheat straw followed by willow and popular saw dust. The pinhead and fruit formation was observed in wheat straw within 10 days after mycelium run and 15 days in willow and 20 days in popular saw dust. The biological efficacy was observed 72% in wheat straw 68 percent in willow and 55 percent in popular saw dust.

Shabir U Rehman*1, Chander Prakesh Malhotra1, Bupinder Gupta1, Madan Gopal Singh1, Ranjeet Kour1, Ajaz A. Shah2 and Tariq A. Sofi3 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 02-Sep-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 5 ; 560–570
B. Appanna*1 and N. Chendrayudu2
1 Project Associate (PA-I), Centre of Excellence, (Land and Water Resource Management), Sri Venkateswaraa University, Tirupati - 517 502, Andhra Pradesh, India 2 Coordinator, CoE, Land and Water Resources Management, S. V. University, Tirupati - 517 502, Andhra Pradesh, India
Abstract
Irrigation refers to the artificial feeding of the soil or plants during dry spells. It is a vital input of modern agriculture for crop production and has a strong impact on crop diversification. Its urgency needs emphasis for having stable and successful agriculture in areas like drought-prone regions, where rainfall is seasonally distributed and unreliable. So, in this paper, an attempt has been made to analyze the irrigation intensity, cropping intensity, and the relationship between irrigation intensity and cropping intensity in the Rayalaseema Region at the mandal level for the year 2023-24. Karl Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient method has been adopted to compute the relationship between irrigation intensity and cropping intensity. The mandal-level irrigation and cropping pattern data have been collected from the Chief Planning Office (CPO) of Kurnool district and the Economic and Statistical Departments of the respective districts for the year 2023-24. The analysis of Karl Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient across the eight districts of Rayalaseema Region reveals that the relationship between irrigation intensity and cropping intensity is predominantly weak, with correlation values confined within the range of −0.3674 to +0.3326.

B. Appanna*1 and N. Chendrayudu2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 04-Sep-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 5 ; 571–575
Shashibhaskar M. S.*1, S. Rajendra Prasad2, Puttaramanaik K. T.3, Pandurangegowda4, Rame Gowda5 and S. Narayanaswamy6
1-6 University of Agricultural Sciences (GKVK), Bengaluru - 560 065, Karnataka, India
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of staggered sowing and micronutrient applications on two single-cross maize hybrids, NAH-2049 and NAH-1137, across two field locations: NSP, GKVK and ZARS, V. C. Farm, Mandya. Experimental results revealed significant variations among hybrids, staggered sowing and micronutrient application. Sowing of male parent by two days late than female parent in NAH-2049 (34.20 and 36.30q/ha) and 2 days early sowing of male parent in NAH-1137 (59.97 and 59.96q/ha) showed significantly higher seed yields at GKVK and Mandya, respectively. Overall, hybrid NAH-1137 consistently outperformed NAH-2049. Among micronutrient application, soil application of 10 kg ZnSO4 + 10 kg FeSO4 per hectare significantly enhanced seed yield parameters compared to individual applications. These findings demonstrate that adjusting parental sowing combined with balanced zinc and iron fertilization effectively synchronizes flowering, leading to maximized hybrid seed yields in maize.

Shashibhaskar M. S.*1, S. Rajendra Prasad2, Puttaramanaik K. T.3, Pandurangegowda4, Rame Gowda5 and S. Narayanaswamy6 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 07-Sep-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 5 ; 576–581
Anita Yadav*1
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Botany, Government College Jaipur - 302 015, Rajasthan, India
Abstract
Justicia adhatoda L. (family Acanthaceae), commonly known as Vasaka or Malabar nut, is an important medicinal plant widely used in traditional systems of medicine. The plant is known for its diverse pharmacological properties. The therapeutic potential of Justicia adhatoda is attributed to the presence of various bioactive compounds such as vasicine, vasicinone, flavonoids, phenolics, and tannins. The present study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity of different parts of Justicia adhatoda L., including roots, stems, leaves, and flowers, against Aspergillus niger, Penicillium chrysogenum and Alternaria alternata. Methanolic, petroleum ether, and aqueous extracts of the selected plant parts were prepared and tested at concentrations ranging from 25 to 100 µg/L. Based on data presented here, Methanolic extracts exhibited greater antifungal activity than aqueous and petroleum ether extracts across all tested fungi. The findings suggest that different parts of Justicia adhatoda, particularly the methanolic leaf extract, possess significant antifungal potential and may serve as a promising source of natural antifungal agents for the management of fungal pathogens. Further studies are needed to isolate and characterize the active compounds responsible for the observed antifungal activity and to explore their potential applications in agriculture and medicine.

Anita Yadav*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 11-Sep-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 5 ; 582–586
James Dev Verma*1
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Geography, Swami Vivekananda Mahavidyalaya, Mohanpur - 799 211, West Tripura, India
Abstract
Irrigation development plays an important role in agricultural intensification by enabling repeated use of cultivated land and reducing dependence on rainfall. The present study examines irrigation development and its association with agricultural intensification across the eight states of North-East India during 2004-05 to 2022-23. Secondary time-series data on gross sown area, net sown area, gross irrigated area and net irrigated area were analyzed using absolute change, relative change, compound annual growth rate, irrigation ratios and cropping intensity. State-wise Pearson correlation coefficients were also estimated to assess the association between irrigated area and cropping intensity. The findings reveal substantial inter-state variation in irrigation development and agricultural intensification. At the regional level, gross irrigated area increased by 91.36% and net irrigated area by 101.30%, while cropping intensity increased from 132.54% to 142.09%. Correlation results showed predominantly positive associations between irrigated area and cropping intensity, although their strength varied across states. The study concludes that irrigation development is associated with greater agricultural intensification in North-East India, but the relationship is not uniform and is influenced by state-specific geographical and agricultural conditions.

James Dev Verma*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 14-Sep-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 5 ; 587–594
Manju Chaudhary*1
1 Professor, Department of Botany, SRRM Government College, Jhunjhunu - 333 001, Rajasthan, India
Abstract
Traditional weather forecasting is an important component of indigenous ecological knowledge, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where agriculture depends heavily on variable rainfall. The present study documents traditional weather-forecasting practices preserved through folk proverbs and indigenous beliefs in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, India. Field investigations conducted during 2022-2025 in Jhunjhunu and Sikar districts involved 45 traditional knowledge holders, including farmers, shepherds, village elders, and folk singers. Data were collected through field surveys, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, participant observation, and informal interactions. A total of 52 weather-related proverbs were documented and classified into meteorological, astrometeorological, and biotic indicators. Meteorological indicators were predominant (22; 42.31%), followed by astrometeorological (16; 30.77%) and biotic indicators (14; 26.92%). The documented indicators included wind direction, cloud patterns, sky conditions, temperature, astronomical phenomena, animal and bird behaviour, insect activity, and plant phenology, and were traditionally used to anticipate rainfall, drought, monsoon patterns, and agricultural prospects. Several indicators showed plausible associations with established meteorological and ecological processes, demonstrating the empirical basis of local forecasting knowledge. However, the concentration of this knowledge among older respondents highlights the need for its systematic documentation and intergenerational transmission. Integrating indigenous forecasting knowledge with scientific weather information may strengthen climate-resilient agriculture and locally appropriate adaptation strategies in drought-prone regions.

Manju Chaudhary*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 15-Sep-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 5 ; 595–600
Shazia Mushtaq*1
1 P. G. Department of Botany, Sri Pratap College, Cluster University, Srinagar - 190 001, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
The present study evaluated the physiological effects of varying concentrations of Gibberellic Acid (GA3) on the seed germination dynamics and early seedling growth of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), an economically vital aromatic and medicinal herb. Basil seeds were subjected to a 24-hour pre-sowing imbibition treatment across three distinct GA3 concentrations 50 ppm, 100 ppm, and 150 ppm alongside a double-distilled water control (0 ppm) under strictly controlled laboratory conditions (23°C) for 15 days. The experiment followed a completely randomized design with three replicates per treatment. The 100 ppm GA3 treatment demonstrated the highest efficiency, achieving a Final Germination Percentage (FGP) of 80%, the shortest Mean Germination Time (MGT) of 6.00 days, an optimal Coefficient of Velocity of Germination (CVG) of 20.81% / day, and a highly synchronized Time Spread of Germination (TSG) of 0.00 days. Conversely, the highest concentration (150 ppm) triggered rapid early radical emergence (T50 = 5 days) and the maximal Mean Combined Seedling Length (8.28 ± 1.95 cm) driven by dramatic shoot elongation (5.28 ± 1.84 cm), but exhibited a decline in absolute viability (FGP = 60%). These outcomes reveal a concentration-dependent physiological threshold where 100 ppm GA3 optimizes absolute germinative fitness and population uniformity, establishing a baseline for standard cultivation practices.

Shazia Mushtaq*1 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 17-Sep-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 5 ; 601–605
Shashibhaskar M. S.*1, S. Rajendra Prasad2, Puttaramanaik K. T.3, Pandurangegowda4, Rame Gowda5 and S. Narayanaswamy6
1-6 University of Agricultural Sciences (GKVK), Bengaluru - 560 065, Karnataka, India
Abstract
The field experiment was conducted at NSP, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru, to study the effect of planting ratio and micronutrient application on seed yield in single cross maize hybrid. The experiment consists of four planting ratio, two hybrids and three micronutrient application. Significant differences were noticed between the treatments for seed yield parameters. Between the hybrids, Hema (51.02 and 52.00q/ha) recorded the higher seed yield compared to Nithyashree (27.14 and 25.10q/ha) at GKVK and Mandya, respectively. However, between the locations, GKVK was found to be more suitable place for seed production than Mandya. Planting ratio P1 (4:1) maximizes overall seed yield per hectare at GKVK (41.09 q/ha), performing on par with P4 (6:2) at 39.90 q/ha and P2 (4:2) at 39.51 q/ha. On the contrary, P3 (5:1) consistently produces lower yields (35.82 q/ha) because the higher proportion of female rows leads to pollen shortages.

Shashibhaskar M. S.*1, S. Rajendra Prasad2, Puttaramanaik K. T.3, Pandurangegowda4, Rame Gowda5 and S. Narayanaswamy6 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 24-Sep-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 5 ; 606–610
S. Ranjith Raja Ram*1 and Harini2
1 Assistant Professor, Plant Breeding and Genetics, Tapioca and Castor Research Station (TCRS), Tamil Nadu Agriculture University (TNAU), Yethapur, PG.Palayam, Salem - 636 119, Tamil Nadu, India 2 Genetics and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Cuddalore - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
The Present investigation entitled “Combining ability analysis in sesame (Sesamum indicum L)” through Line × Tester mating design were undertaken with seven lines viz., VS-07-023, TKG- 87, Black diamond, LT-8, TKG 22, Subhiksha gold, CST-2008 crossed with three testers viz., TMV 4, VRI 2 and Paiyur-1were evaluated for yield and important yield contributing characters for eight traits viz., days to 50 per cent flowering, plant height, number of branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, capsule length, number of seeds per capsule, 1000 seed weight and seed yield per plant. The analysis resulted in the pre-pondance of non-additive gene action for seed yield and its components traits. The variance due to SCA was higher than the corresponding variance due to GCA for all the characters. Based on the general combining ability effects and per se performance of parents, the genotypes L1 VS-07-023 and L3 Black diamond and T1 TMV4 have considerable potential and can be utilized for developing promising cultivars, with high yield potential by using appropriate breeding strategy. The top high yielding cross combinations viz., VS-07-023 × TMV 4, Black diamond × TMV 4, TKG 22 × Paiyur 1 and CST-2008 × Paiyur 1 showed highly significant and positive sca effects for yield and involved either good x good, good x poor or poor x poor combining parents. Based on sca effects, the hybrids VS-07-023 × TMV 4, Black diamond × TMV 4, CST-2008 × Paiyur 1 were adjudged as better hybrids for seed yield and other yield component traits and hence recommended for yield improvement. Better segregation can be obtained from such hybrid combination for seed yield and yield contributing traits.

S. Ranjith Raja Ram*1 and Harini2 Click here to download file

Research Article | Published online : 26-Sep-2026

Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Vol : 17 - Issue : 5 ; 611–617
Jahangeer A. Baba*1, Zahoor A. Bhat1, Shabeena Majid1, Muneer Ahmad1, Syed Shujat2, Rukhsar A. Dar3 and Gazanfer Gani4
1 Scientist (Fruit Science), Nut Research Centre, DARS, Budgam, SKUAST- Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, India 2 Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) / ETC (SKUAST- Kashmir), Malangpora, Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, India 3 Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Srinagar, SKUAST- Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, India 4 Faculty of Horticulture, SKUAST- Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar - 190 025, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Abstract
Almond (Prunus dulcis) is a vital temperate nut crop in Jammu and Kashmir historically accounts for over 90% of India's domestic almond production. However, local production satisfies less than 10% of India's total market demand, leading to national import costs exceeding ₹10,000 crore each year. Over the past twenty-five years the area under almond cultivation in Kashmir dropped significantly falling from more than 26,000 hectares in 2000 to roughly 5,400 hectares in recent years. This review analyzes the underlying causes of this decline and outlines practical, evidence-based strategies to modernize the sector. The decline stems from three major areas: (1) low farm-gate prices, high middleman margins (45-55%), and the conversion of traditional agricultural land into high-density dwarf apple orchards; (2) environmental challenges on the elevated Karewa (Wudar) plateaus, such as topsoil loss, summer droughts and early spring frosts that kill blossoms during the February–March flowering period; and (3) high genetic variation in traditional seedling rootstocks, irregular crop yields, and a lack of mechanized post-harvest processing facilities. Research from SKUAST-Kashmir and ICAR-CITH offers practical solutions to these issues. Late-blooming cultivars like Waris, Makhdoom, and Shalimar flower 15-20 days later than local varieties, allowing them to escape spring frosts. Additionally, introducing self-fertile scions reduces the risks associated with poor insect pollination during cold weather. Clonal hybrid rootstocks (such as GF-677 and Garnem) improve tree vigor, resist lime chlorosis, and tolerate drought conditions common in Karewa soils. Shifting to high-density planting configurations (1,250-1,900 trees/ha) combined with drip fertigation can increase average yields from 0.8-1.1 t/ha up to 2.8-3.8 t/ha, while reducing the vegetative juvenile period from 7 years down to 3. Revitalizing the sector requires aligning these field technologies with policy initiatives under the J&K Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). Key steps include enforcing legal bans on clay mining across the Karewas, deploying decentralized hulling machinery, and securing Geographical Indication (GI) certification. Restoring Kashmir's almond production is critical for reducing India's import reliance and protecting fragile Himalayan upland environments.

Jahangeer A. Baba*1, Zahoor A. Bhat1, Shabeena Majid1, Muneer Ahmad1, Syed Shujat2, Rukhsar A. Dar3 and Gazanfer Gani4 Click here to download file

Research Review | Published online : 14-Oct-2026