Doctor's Krishi Evam Bagwani Vikas Sanstha (https://ecoagrijournal.com/) (Doctor's Agriculture and Horticultural Development Society) i()s a Government Registered Organization with the objective of bringing new Agricultural and Horticultural Technology by 'Eco-friendly' approaches. It has been observed that use of pesticides has been the main mode of control of pests and they are still in use on large scale as preventive and curative measures. The excessive and indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides and chemical fertilizers has resulted in serious environmental pollution, destruction of natural enemies, and development of resistance to these chemicals and residue hazards etc. Therefore, the needs to phase out the use of these chemicals are now taking momentum. Indexed/Abstracted with - Google Scholar, UGC Approved Journal, Base Indexing, Wos-Applied, National Academy of Agricultural Sciences(NAAS) rating 2024 - 5.36, Indian Citation Index, DRJI, Indian Science Abstract, ISO Certified, CABI Indexed
Doctors Krishi Evam Baghwani Vikas Sanstha
Comparative life parameters of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) reared on chickpea under laboratory conditions
The biology of H. armigera reared on organically and traditionally grown chickpea showed maximum and minimum egg hatching of 89.82 and 80.59 per cent, respectively. The mean pre-oviposition, oviposition and post oviposition periods of H. armigera female was (2.92±0.86, 6.32±1.24 and 1.72±1.20) days on organically grown chickpea, while (2.48±0.50, 5.32±1.21 and 1.64±1.18) days on traditionally grown chickpea. The maximum mean fecundity was 220.20 ± 17.63 on organically grown chickpea and minimum (186.60±10.68) on traditionally grown chickpea. The incubation period on traditionally grown chickpea (3.84±0.84 days) and (4.44 ± 1.08) days on organically grown chickpea. The minimum larval developmental period of 24.92± 2.23 days was noted on traditionally grown chickpea, whereas, it was maximum (25.92 ± 2.79 days) on organically grown chickpea. Similarly, the length and breadth of pre-pupae (25.49±1.72 and 6.12±0.31 mm) and pupae (20.53±2.12 and 6.73±0.36 mm for male and 22.86 ± 3.40 and 7.15 ± 0.28 for female) was maximum on organically grown chickpea and minimum of (25.43±1.97 and 6.08±0.36 mm) for pre-pupa, (18.95±1.83 and 6.47±0.45 mm) for male pupa and (22.81 ± 3.18 and 7.08 ± 0.32 mm) for female pupa was measured on traditionally grown chickpea. The minimum pre-pupal (2.88 ± 1.12 days) and pupal periods (8.00 ± 0.81 and 9.08 ± 1.35 days for male and female) were recorded on traditionally grown chickpea, while maximum (2.96 ± 1.05 days pre-pupal and 8.60 ± 1.11 and 9.6 ± 1.47 days male and female pupal periods) on organically grown chickpea. Among two hosts the longevity of male and female was recorded as maximum with a mean of (6.56±1.08 and 10.04±1.42 days) on organically grown chickpea and minimum with a mean of (5.68 ± 1.14 and 10.36 ± 1.18 days), respectively on traditionally grown chickpea. The sex ratio of male to female was 1: 0.89 and 1: 0.78 on organically and traditionally grown chickpea. On the basis of growth index, organically grown chickpea (3.55) was the most preferred host over traditionally grown chickpea (3.33) for H. armigera.
Soil physical and biological responses to rice establishment practices in rice-blackgram system
The field study, undertaken to assess the impact of different sowing dates and establishment methods in rice, along with weed management practices in blackgram, on the physical and biological properties of soil under rice blackgram system, was conducted using a split-split-plot design with four sowing dates as main plot treatments and rice establishment methods as sub plot treatments in kharif, and different weed management in conventionally sown blackgram as sub-sub plot treatments during rabi. The results revealed that early sowing and direct-seeded rice significantly improved soil physical properties such as bulk density, porosity and water stable aggregates due to better root proliferation and reduced puddling. Neither the date of sowing rice nor weed management practices in blackgram influenced bulk density and water stable aggregates values significantly. Moreover, biological properties such as microbial population, microbial biomass carbon and dehydrogenase activity showed a marked increase under the system involving early sowing i.e. one week before onset of monsoon and DSR and found statistically at par with NPTR.
Copyright (c) 2025 Susmita Panda, B Behera, B K Mohapatra, Banashri Lodh
Role of phosphate solubilizing bacteria in enhancing soil fertility and crop yields in arid environments – A Review
Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) are increasingly recognized as essential players in sustainable agriculture, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where soil phosphorus (P) availability is often limited. These bacteria, which belong to a category of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria are capable of converting insoluble phosphates into forms that plants can easily absorb. This process not only enhances nutrient uptake but also supports overall plant growth. Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of PSB in improving crop productivity in challenging environments such as the Andean Atacama Desert, Morocco, and parts of India. The combination of PSB application with organic and mineral fertilizers has been explored to address the adverse effects of soil salinization and calcification issues that are worsened by climate change. This review delves into the mechanisms by which PSB solubilize phosphate, factors influencing their activity, and the multitude of benefits they offer in arid regions, including enhanced phosphorus uptake, increased crop yields, improved plant development, enhanced water efficiency, and better drought resilience. The application of PSB biofertilizers are critical for boosting agricultural productivity in these arid landscapes. PSB present a viable solution for advancing sustainable agricultural practices in arid and semi-arid regions, though further research is necessary to fully capitalize on their potential.
Copyright (c) 2025 Amrin A, Palaniswamy R
Impact of humic acid and seaweed biostimulants on growth, yield and quality of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) cv. CO 34
The field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of humic acid and seaweed biostimulants on the growth, yield and quality of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) cv. CO-34 during the rabi season of 2020-21 at the Vegetable Farm, Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Jhalrapatan City, Jhalawar, India. The study employed a factorial randomized block design with three replications, testing twelve treatment combinations of humic acid (0, 10, 20, 30 ml L–1) and seaweed extract (0, 1, 2 ml L–1). The combination of 30 ml L–1 humic acid and 2 ml L–1 seaweed extract (H3S2) significantly enhanced growth parameters, including vine length (62.63 cm at 60 DAT, 126.16 cm at 120 DAT) and number of branches per vine (10.33 at 60 DAT, 22.50 at 120 DAT), as well as yield parameters such as tuber number per plant (6.77), tuber weight (242.67 g) and tuber yield (46.10 t ha–1). Quality parameters, including total soluble solids (18.47 °Brix), dry matter (29.21%) and ascorbic acid content (18.40 mg 100 g–1), were also maximum in H3S2 compared to the control (H0S0). These findings underscore the synergistic potential of humic acid and seaweed biostimulants in improving sweet potato productivity and quality, offering valuable insights for sustainable agriculture.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hardat Kaswan, Kavita Aravindakshan, SK Jat, Jitendra Gurjar
Metabolic versatility and species identification of fluorescent Pseudomonas using carbon utilization profiles
This study examines the metabolic versatility of ten fluorescent Pseudomonas isolates obtained from rhizospheric soil. The isolates, (BS-1, BS-2, BS-3, BS-4, 9704, 9829, 9809, BSP-19, BSP-14, BSP-23) demonstrated a high degree of metabolic versatility, highlighting their adaptability to diverse ecological niches. Carbon source utilization profiles were developed using the HicarboTM kit, revealing that Pseudomonas aeruginosa shared 70 per cent phenotypic similarity with the isolates, thereby affirming the value of standard datasets for species identification. The observed metabolic diversity highlights the potential applications of Pseudomonas species in ecological and agricultural fields, demonstrating their resilience and functional versatility in various environments.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rathod Parashuram, Toshy Agrawal, Anil S Kotasthane
Effects of benzyladenine and gibberellic acid on growth, flowering and Narcissus yield
The experiment carried out to study growth, flowering and yield parameters of Narcissus by using growth regulators, i.e., benzyladenine and gibberellic acid in different concentrations, revealed that application of BA (400 ppm) significantly increased length of leaf, width of leaf, width of scape, plant height, early opening of 1st flower and increased number of roots plant–1. BA at 300 ppm resulted in late senescence of 1st flower and diameter of bulb. Lower dose of BA i.e., 100 ppm significantly increased number of buds plant–1 and number of open flowers plant–1. Higher concentration of GA3 (200 ppm), significantly delayed opening of last floret, increased duration of flowering, number of bulbs hill–1, diameter of root, fresh and dry weight of roots. However, lower dose of GA3 (50 ppm) exhibited maximum weight of bulb and length of root.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sakshi Santosh Vyas, Minakshi Padhi, Anjana Sisodia, Kalyan Barman, Anil K Singh
Effect of sowing dates on yield in maize cultivars in southern dry zone of Karnataka
The field experiment, conducted at ZARS, V.C. Farm, Mandya during kharif season, was laid out in a split plot design where main plots were assigned to four sowing dates (August 1st fortnight, August 2nd fortnight, September 1st fortnight and September 2nd fortnight) and sub-plots to three cultivars of maize (MAH 14-138, MAH 14-5 and Bio 9544), with twelve treatment combinations and replicated thrice. The results revealed that, D1 (August 1st fortnight) sowing recorded higher cob length (17.19 cm), cob girth (8.83 cm), test weight (32.59 g), grain yield (7355 kg ha-1) and stalk yield (10647 kg ha-1). Among different cultivar H2 (MAH 14-5) recorded higher cob length (17.47 cm), cob girth (8.75 cm), test weight (31.99 g), grain yield (6967 kg ha-1) and stalk yield (10075 kg ha-1).
Copyright (c) 2025 Nisarga G D, Timmegowda P, Yogananda S B
Performance Evaluation of Self-Propelled Planter with Electronic Seed-Metering System
In Indian agriculture, seed placement is one of most crucial operations as it affects seed germination, growth and the productivity. Further, in narrow terraces of North Eastern Hilly Region of India, uses of tractor operated planters and other conventional plantersare not feasible. In addition, commercially available planters use mechanical metering which has many limitations including, skidding of the wheel, non-uniform seed rate, wastage of the seed and higher maintenance cost. Therefore, a lightweight self-propelled planter is required for timely operation with less drudgery in terraced terrain with a vertical interval more than 1 m. The seed plates powered by electric or hydraulic motors can effectively prevent the seed irregularities caused by wheel slippage on the ground and vibrations, thereby increasing the working speed and improving seeding accuracy. In order to deal such issues, an ergonomically designed planter with electronic seed metering system was developed. The performance results were analyzed and results with minimum value of missing index, multiple index, precision index and mean seed spacing as 5, 3.34, 16.23 per cent and 10.76 cm and highest value of quality of feed index of 91.67 per cent were recorded at groove size 5.45 mm, 25 per cent hopper fill level and running speed 1 km h-1 respectively.
taguchi method and planter with electronic seed metering system
Copyright (c) 2025 Asif Beg, Narvendra Singh Chauhan
Biochemical compositions and nutrients changes in seeds of Cabernet Sauvignon (Vitis vinifera L.) as affected by different rootstocks
The present study, conducted to know the effect of grape rootstocks on yield, quality, seed nutrients and seed biochemicals of Cabernet Sauvignon grapevine, showed that the seed nutrients and seed biochemicals of Cabernet Sauvignon grafted on different rootstocks showed significant effect for seed nutrients. Among the rootstocks studied, the SO4 recorded high nutrient content while Gravasec recorded the lowest. The rootstock, Dogridge and Gravasec showed higher concentration of biochemicals in grape seed while lower in 1103P rootstock grafted vines. Rootstock 140Ru and Dogridge showed maximum performance for yield and quality parameters while SO4 followed by 101.14MGT, recorded lower performance for yield and quality. Use of rootstock had positive effect on seed nutrients, seed biochemicals, yield and yield parameters of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. The results showed a positive correlation among various traits. Nitrogen had a positive correlation with Ca, protein, and phenol. Phenol was positively correlated with Ca and Mn. Proline had strong positive correlations with Na and Fe. Carbohydrate was positively correlated with Cu and Fe.
Copyright (c) 2025 R G Somkuwar, Nilima Gobade, A K Upadhyay, Ajay Kumar Sharma, Praveen Kumar Ausari, Pradip Kakade, Pooja Sanjay Gharate
Influence of nano Zn formulations on rice cultivars under salt affected calcareous soils of Bihar
The field experiment, conducted at RPCAU, Pusa, Bihar, during Kharif 2022, to assess the effects of zinc treatments—control (no zinc), ZnSO4 foliar spray @ 0.5% (Zn1), nano zinc @ 20 ppm (Zn2), nano zinc @ 50 ppm (Zn3), and soil-applied ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha–¹ (Zn4) on rice cultivars CSR 23 and DRR Dhan 48, in a split-plot design with recommended fertilizers, showed significantly enhanced tiller numbers, filled grains per panicle, and yields with Zn4 and Zn3 achieving the highest grain yields (3490 and 3430 kg ha–¹), respectively. DRR Dhan 48 outperformed CSR 23 in yield and nutrient uptake. Nitrogen content was highest with Zn4 (1.30% in grain, 0.50% in straw). Zinc content in grain and straw was significantly increased by Zn4 and Zn3, demonstrating nano zinc’s superior efficacy. Nano zinc, particularly at 50 ppm, is a sustainable alternative to conventional ZnSO4, enhancing rice productivity and nutritional quality in subtropical humid climates.
Copyright (c) 2025 Pratik Nandi, Sanjay Kumar, Vipin Kumar, Santosh Kumar Singh, Kaushal Kishor, S D R Vajra Hyndavi
Harnessing native antagonistic bio-agents for eco-friendly control of rice sheath rot caused by Sarocladium oryzae
Rice sheath rot, caused by Sarocladium oryzae, is a devastating disease threatening rice production worldwide, with yield losses ranging from 9.6 per cent to 85 per cent. Conventional reliance on synthetic fungicides has raised concerns about environmental sustainability and health safety, prompting the exploration of eco-friendly alternatives. This study investigates the in vitro efficacy of native antagonistic bio-agents, specifically Trichoderma spp. and Pseudomonas spp., against Sarocladium oryzae. Rhizospheric soil samples were collected to isolate and identify bio-agents, which were then tested using the dual culture method. Results revealed significant pathogen inhibition, with Trichoderma isolate Tr-1 achieving the highest inhibition rate (76.72%) among the Trichoderma isolates and in Pseudomonas isolates Ps-1 (61.21%) showed the significant inhibition. These findings highlight the potential of native bio-agents as sustainable, environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical fungicides, offering a promising strategy for integrated disease management in rice cultivation and advancing organic farming practices.
Copyright (c) 2025 Chetan kumar, R K Ranjan, Aravind G V, Dinesh Rai, Md Abbas Ahmad
Influence of urea, nano urea and seaweed extracts on the performance of waterleaf [Talinum triangulare (Jacq)]
The investigation conducted during summer, 2024 at Horticulture Research Farm (HRF), Department of Horticulture, M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion university of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha, using randomized block design with three replications comprising of nine treatments with urea foliar spray at 2 and 3 per cent, nano urea at 2, 3 and 4 ml l–1 and seaweed extract at 4, 5 and 6 ml l–1, revealed maximum plant height (62.90 cm), number of leaves (212.80), number of branches (17.57), leaf length (12.05 cm) and stem length (40.64 cm) with the treatment T6 (seaweed extract at 6 ml l–1). The midrib length (11.74 cm) and leaf area index (29.63) were the highest with nano urea at 4 ml l–1. The yield parameters such as fresh leaf yield plot–1 (1907.01 g m2 –1) and total yield kg ha–1 (4508.90 kg ha–1) was recorded with treatment T6 (seaweed extract at 6 ml l–1). The quality parameters such as nano urea at 4 ml l–1 resulted in the highest levels of calcium (1.58%), magnesium (2.16%), and sodium (700.3 mg kg–1). Seaweed extract at 6 ml l–1 produced the highest nitrogen content (2.86%) and also led to the highest vitamin a (35.2) and folic acid (13.24 mcg 100 g–1) levels. Nano urea at 2 ml l–1 achieved the highest chlorophyll-a concentration (288.4), while urea at 2 per cent resulted in the highest chlorophyll-b (128.9) and the hydrocyanic acid levels with seaweed extract at 6 ml l–1 resulted 2.84 mg kg–1.
Copyright (c) 2025 Korani Rajeshwari, S Eswara Reddy, Swapnil, Vangapandu Thriveni
Evaluation of non-chemical weed control methods in direct seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.) under rainfed condition of Nagaland
A field experiment, conducted at the experimental farm of School of Agricultural Science (SAS), Nagaland University, Medziphema campus, The was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications and eight treatments. Among the treatments, application of stale seedbed technique followed by brown manuring was found the most efficient having lowest weed population and total dry weight and higher weed control efficiency. The same also produced higher plant height (117.30 cm), number of effective tillers plant –1, number of filled grains panicle–1 (99.47), grain yield (3.53 t ha–1), net return (Rs. 31038.83 ha–1) and B:C ratio (1.03) under direct-seeded rice.
Copyright (c) 2025 Khriesatuonuo Viswentso, A P Singh, Lanunola Tzudir, D Nongmaithem, Rekha Yadav
isolation and phytostimulatory effect on Plectranthus rotundifolius (Poir.) Spreng
The present study determined the effect of Pseudomonas fluorescens (Fa) and Bacillus subtilis (Ca) that overcome the dosage of NPK resulted in the enhancement of yield and nutritional qualities of P. rotundifolius. HPLC analysis of Fa and Ca for IAA production along with identification of four anti-phytopathogenic compounds by GC MS analysis were carried out. Six separate treatments were done in soil of P. rotundifolius and the data were analysed statistically. Product formation of the isolates for the long term application in the agricultural fields were made. Investigating PGPR strains for novel plant growth-promoting characteristics will benefit sustainable agriculture.
Copyright (c) 2025 Smitha Thomas, Lizzy Mathew
Effects of different growth regulators on okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) growth, flowering, and yield in Chhattisgarh Plains zone
In today’s situation, the use of growth regulators is playing an important role in increasing the yield and better quality crops. The findings showed that the use of plant growth regulators greatly enhanced the morphological characteristics, viz., number of branches plant–1, number of leaves plant–1, plant height (cm) and number of flowers plant-1 at maximum T3 (GA3 @ 75 ppm) (3.091, 3.906, 4.095 and 4.360) (12. 648, 17.115, 24.053 and 24.757), (44.503, 81.047, 87.778 and 89.974) and (4.587, 6.322, 6.755 and 6.486), respectively. While all the yield related parameters like- number of fruits plant-1, fruit length (cm), fruit breadth (cm) and fresh fruit weight (g) increased significantly due to use of plant growth regulators, the best among them was T3 (GA3 @ 75 ppm) (3.899, 5.374, 5.596 & 3.836), (12.150, 13.634, 13.566 & 13.107), (1.875, 2.073, 2.087 & 1.926) and (13.240, 13.237, 14.081 & 14.264), respectively. In foliar sprays, (GA3 @ 75 ppm) had the highest positive effect on plant growth regulators, followed by NAA, while it had the least effect in the control plots.
Copyright (c) 2025 Roshan Lal Sahu, Gangaram Rana
Biocontrol agents to combat Fusarium wilt supporting disease management strategies in organic farming of lentil
This study delves into the intriguing role of bioagents in tackling Fusarium wilt in lentil (Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lentis) by stimulating plant defense mechanisms, reducing wilt incidence, and regulating growth factors to boost yield. Biocontrol agents: Trichoderma harzianum (Th-14) (PB1), Pseudomonas fluorescens (Psf 173) (PB2), or a mix of the two (PB3) were used at both in vitro and in vivo at different doses (6 g, 10 g, and 15 g per kg seed). Bioagent, Pseudomonas fluorescens (Strain Psf 173) exhibited a significant 70 percent inhibition of the pathogen mycelium radial growth along with the significant decrease in the wilt disease and an increase in yield in the field after the seed treatment. The plant defense-related enzymes such as PAL, PO, PPO, and catalase also increased many folds. Thus, demonstrated a promising result in controlling Fusarium wilt in lentil in organic farming.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anshul Arya, Sujata Singh Yadav
Biochemical potential and mineral composition of diverse genotypes, hybrid combinations and standard hybrid checks of Solanum melongena L.
The experiment, designed with the objective of estimating the total sugars, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars, total phenols, crude fibre, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc in dried fruit samples of 8 genotypes, 28 hybrids and 2 standard hybrid checks to develop hybrids that can impart resistance against insect pest as well as is nutritionally beneficial for humans, was conducted in randomized block design at All India Coordinated Research Project on Vegetable Crops, Department of Horticulture, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri during June, 2022 to December, 2023. The biochemical analysis of fruits and leaves of kharif and summer trial was carried out separately in Ph.D. laboratory, Department of Horticulture, MPKV, Rahuri. All the biochemical parameters were found to vary significantly among all the genotypes, hybrids and standard hybrid checks. Among parents/genotypes, P5 (RHRBR-54) was rated as the best genotype and P5 x P6 (RHRBR-54 x RHRBR-74), P6 x P7 (RHRBR-74 x RHRBR-34) and P5 x P8 (RHRBR-54 x RHRBR-2) 1 were found as the best cross combinations during both the seasons. Identified parental lines can be used for development of superior variety, whereas superior cross combinations can be exploited as a commercial hybrid.
Copyright (c) 2025 Parul Mehra, M N Bhalekar, Shubham Singh Patel, Rashmi Dongre
Seasonal incidence of insects on Solanum lycopersicum and their correlation with weather parameters
A field investigation was conducted to study the seasonal incidence of insect pests on tomato crops and their correlation with weather parameters. Eight insect species, including aphids, mealybugs, green plant hoppers, fruit flies, whiteflies, tomato fruit borer, leaf miner, and the parasitoid Cotesia glomerata, were recorded. Aphids, mealybugs, and hoppers peaked in early March, while fruit flies and whiteflies were most prevalent mid-March. The fruit borer and leaf miners reached peak populations in April, and C. glomerata was most active in the second week of March. Most insect populations showed a significant positive correlation with relative humidity, while correlations with temperature and sunshine were generally non-significant or negative. Leaf miners showed significant negative correlations with temperature and sunshine. The study highlights the strong influence of abiotic factors, especially humidity, on pest dynamics. Climate-resilient Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and biological control using C. glomerata are recommended for sustainable pest control
Copyright (c) 2025 Nishi Sewak, Shraddha Tripathi
Influence of marigold and sweet corn intercropping on flowering parameters and cob qualities of sweet corn
The field experiment was conducted at College of Horticulture, Dapoli in rabi season of the year 2022-23 to assess the performance of marigold with sweet corn intercropping system. The marigold was intercropped with sweet corn in six different ratios viz; 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, 3:2, 4:1 and 4:2 along with marigold and sweet corn sole crops. The flowering parameters of sweet corn viz; days to tasselling, days to silking and nodal position of the female flower were studied in flowering phase of sweet corn which were not significantly influenced by intercropping systems with marigold. The revealed significantly higher cob length and girth were in treatment T7 (25.25 cm, 6.98 cm, respectively) whereas, the minimum length and girth of cob were found in treatment T2 (21.64 cm and 6.32 cm, respectively). The maximum weight of cob (501.58 g) and maximum weight of sweet corn grains (334.47 g) per cob were observed in treatment T7 (Marigold + sweetcorn 4:1). While, the minimum weight of cob (461.08 g) as well as weight of sweet corn grains (294.98 g cob–1 were recorded in treatment T2 (sole sweet corn).
Copyright (c) 2025 S S Savaratkar, K V Malshe, V G Chavan
In-silico mining and characterisation of sweet genes in Mango (Mangifera indica L.)
The present study focuses on the insilico identiûcation of SWEET transporter coding genes in mango and its expression in leaf, root, unripe pulp, ripe pulp and jelly seed. Twelve different SWEET transcription factors genes/ transcripts (MiSWEET1, MiSWEET2, MiSWEET3, MiSWEET4, MiSWEET5, MiSWEET6, MiSWEET7, MiSWEET10, MiSWEET12, MiSWEET14, MiSWEET16, MiSWEET17) were mined in the fruit transcriptome data of mango jelly seed tissue. Motif 5 is the most conserved motif and seven amino acid residues in this motif are identical in nearly all SWEET members harbouring this motif. The proline (P, 5th), Leucine (L, 6th), Valine (V, 12th and 18th), Serine (S, 17th), Methionine (M, 21st), and Phenylalanine (F, 23rd) of motif 5 are largely conserved in this family, which might be important for sugar intercellular exchange in mango. To decipher the role of SWEET factors in this disorder, the expression analysis through semi-quantitative RT-PCR was analysed at root, leaf, unripe pulp, ripe pulp and jelly seed, revealing that these SWEET genes play developmental and ripening roles. Expression patterns of the SWEET genes during fruit development and ripening indicated that they may be involved in development and ripening by the ethylene signalling pathway. Our findings provide for further functional characterization of the SWEET family genes in mango and open the window of investigation of an important SWEET transcription factor family of genes and its role in mango fruit development and ripening.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rubeena Abbas, Sumit K Soni, Ashish Yadav, Anju Bajpai, Israr Ahmad
Laboratory evaluation of life cycle of earthworms, Eisenia fetida on cow dung
A clean environment, crucial for human health and soil fertility, is essential for agricultural productivity. Excessive use of chemical fertilizers has degraded soil quality and posed health risks. Organic fertilizers like vermicompost, produced by the earthworm Eisenia fetida, offer a sustainable alternative by recycling organic waste and improving soil health. This study evaluated the reproductive performance and growth of E. fetida using cow dung as a substrate under laboratory conditions. Results showed clitellum development by the third week, with cocoon production starting in the sixth and ending by the twelfth week. Each worm produced an average of 9.73 ± 0.20 cocoons, with 2.60 ± 0.176 hatchlings per cocoon and a hatching success rate of 82.22 per cent. The highest individual weight recorded was 756.83 ± 23.76 mg, with a daily growth rate of 16.54 ± 0.82 mg. The study concludes that cow dung supports efficient growth and reproduction of E. fetida for vermicomposting.
Copyright (c) 2025 Himanshu Garwa, Bharati Veerwal, Suresh Kumar
Prevalence of root-knot nematode in tomato polyhouses: A soil sampling study from Delhi and nearby areas
The study, carried out across 14 polyhouses located in Delhi, Kurukshetra, Palwal, Panipat, and Sonipat, 0revealed prevalence of nematode infestations in soils of 78.6 per cent (11/14) of polyhouses. While two polyhouses surpassed the pathogenic threshold (2 J2/cc soil) at the preplanting stage, eight exceeded its threshold level during midplanting (up to 19.9 J2/cc), with all nine facilities assessed at the maturity stage surpassing it (up to 30.5 J2/cc). The highest nematode multiplication rates were observed in the Marinika cultivar (midplanting: 17.9; maturity: 37.8), particularly in soils lacking management interventions. Conversely, polyhouses implementing biocontrol agents (e.g., Trichoderma spp., Pseudomonas spp.) demonstrated reduced nematode proliferation, with the lowest rates recorded in Alawalpur I (6.3 and 10.6 at midplanting and maturity, respectively). Chemical treatments, such as Velum Prime, exhibited only transient suppressive effects. These findings emphasize the necessity of revising preplanting threshold criteria and implementing integrated nematode management (INM) approaches to ensure sustainable tomato production under protected cultivation systems
Copyright (c) 2025 Ajay Singh Sindhu, Anju Kamra
Evaluation of different varieties of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) for growth, yield and quality characters
A field experiment, conducted at ICAR–Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research, Modipuram, to evaluate the performance of six potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) varieties Kufri Thar-3, Kufri Surya, Kufri Uday, Kufri Bahar, Kufri Anand, and Kufri Thar-1 under local agro-climatic conditions on growth, quality, and yield attributes at 60 and 90 days after planting (DAP), revealed significant varietal differences across all parameters. Kufri Anand exhibited superior vegetative growth in terms of plant height and number of leaves, Kufri Surya and Kufri Bahar demonstrated strong vegetative vigour and higher dry matter and starch content and Kufri Thar-3 and Kufri Surya recorded high TSS values, suggesting enhanced metabolic activity. Kufri Uday consistently recorded the highest average tuber weight per plant (561.20 g), number of tubers (7.80), and overall yield (36.30 t ha–1), establishing its suitability for high-yield production. In contrast, Kufri Thar-1 recorded the lowest yield (28.20 t ha–1), despite showing moderate vegetative performance. The findings emphasize the importance of varietal selection to optimize productivity and quality based on site-specific agro-ecological conditions.
vegetative vigour and agro-climatic evaluation
Copyright (c) 2025 Pushpendra Pratap Singh, Shubham Yadav, R P Mishra
Assessment of growth regulators and different chemical treatments in enhancing rooting characteristics of Khirni (Manilkara hexandra L.)
The experiment, laid out in complete randomized block design (CRBD) and three replications with ten treatments viz., GA3 @ 50 ppm, GA3 @ 75 ppm, GA3 @ 100 ppm, GA3 @ 200 ppm, NAA @ 100 ppm, KNO3 @ 1 per cent, cow urine @ 10 per cent, cow urine @ 100 per cent, cow dung slurry, and control (Distilled water) at Research Farm, Horticulture Section, College of Agriculture, Dhule, in the Maharashtra state (India) with the objective of enhancing rooting characteristics in khirni, suggested that the seed soaked in cow dung slurry (T9) was the most promising. It had maximum average fresh root weight, maximum average fresh shoot weight, maximum root: shoot ratio (fresh weight basis), higher average root length and maximum root density of khirni seedling. It is advised that khirni seedlings be treated with cow dung slurry for 36 hours to prepare them for grafting when they are being raised for sapota grafting.
Copyright (c) 2025 Karan A Bansode, S D Patil, Yogesh Shaniware, Mayur Dhumal
Advancing sustainable agriculture through remote sensing: spectral reflectance-based prediction of pearl millet growth and yield
Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) is a crucial staple crop in arid and semi-arid regions, serving as a primary source of nutrition and income for millions. Given the increasing global emphasis on eco-friendly farming, integrating precision monitoring tools such as spectral reflectance indices into pearl millet production systems can significantly enhance sustainability. The present experiment was conducted to determine the relationship between spectral indices of various cultivars and their growth parameters and yield, demonstrating how non-invasive, spectral-based assessments can contribute to resource-efficient agriculture. The crop spectral reflectance, within wavelengths ranging from 320 nm to 1100 nm, was measured using a field-portable spectroradiometer between 1000 and 1200 hours across all treatment combinations. Growth and yield were found to be highly influenced by sowing directions, highlighting the importance of precision agronomy for maximizing resource efficiency. The findings reveal significant positive correlations between specific spectral indices (SR and NDVI) and growth parameters (LAI and dry matter) as well as yield. These relationships were analysed from emergence to maturity, with the highest correlation observed during the 50 per cent flowering to milking stage.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bhawna, M L Khichar, Sushil
Impact of foliar application of vermiwash on growth, nutrient uptake and yield of onion
The field experiment on onion, conducted at Post Graduate Research Farm, Department of Soil Science, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri during the period of 2022-23, to ascertain the effect of foliar sprays of vermiwash (VW) on growth and yield of onion grown in Inceptiosl with seven treatment combinations consisting of RDF @ 75 and 100 per cent along with vermiwash foliar spray concentration @ 10, 20 and 30 per cent and one absolute control (water spray) replicated thrice in randomized block design. Results showed significantly higher number of leaves (10.80) to onion at 40 days after planting with the application of 100 per cent RDF along with two foliar sprays of vermiwash @ 20 per cent taken at 30 and 45 days after planting. Application of 100 per cent RDF with two foliar sprays of vermiwash @ 20 per cent concentration resulted significantly higher plant height (55.33 cm) at 30 days after planting, which was statistically at par with 75 per cent RDF + 30 per cent foliar spray of vermiwash (52.01 cm). Data revealed that, addition of 75 per cent RDF with two foliar sprays of vermiwash @ 30 per cent was significantly higher total soluble solids (15.46) in onion. Higher equatorial (67.08 mm) and polar diameter (66.66 mm) of onion was reported in the treatment receiveing 100 per cent RDF with two foliar sprays of vermiwash @ 20 per cent. It could be concluded from the data that the treatment receiveing 75 per cent RDF with two foliar sprays of vermiwash @ 20 per cent showed significantly higher onion yield and uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, manganese and copper. However, application of 100 per cent RDF with foliar spray of vermiwash showed higher manganese and copper uptake by onion at harvest.
Copyright (c) 2025 A B Jadhav, V S Patil, A B Gosavi, B M Kamble
Altitudinal variation in the morphological and biochemical traits of Khasi Mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco) in East Kameng District, Arunachal Pradesh
The study aimed at to assess the morphological and biochemical variations of Khasi Mandarin in three blocks of East Kameng district—Seppa, Bana, and Bameng—focusing on the impact of altitude. Seppa, located at a lower altitude (<800 msl), exhibited the largest fruit diameter (4.62 cm) and the highest total soluble solids (TSS) content (10.01° Brix), along with the longest and widest leaves. In contrast, Bameng, situated at a higher altitude (>1300 msl), had smaller fruits with lower weight (27.22 g) and volume (42 cc), but showed higher titratable acidity (1.06%) and ascorbic acid content (30.72 mg 100 g–1) indicating improved nutritional quality at higher elevations. Bana, at a mid altitude, produced fruits with the highest weight (54.83 g) and volume (47.62 cc), offering a balanced profile of size and quality. Seed traits, including count and size, varied moderately among the locations, further emphasizing the role of altitude in shaping the fruit’s characteristics. This study highlights the importance of altitude in determining the morphological and biochemical traits of Khasi Mandarin, providing valuable insights into how climate and geographical factors influence fruit quality in different regions of Arunachal Pradesh.
Copyright (c) 2025 Kashmir Taku, Ningombam Sushma Devi, Karobi Handique, Huirem Daina Devi, Jutimala Phookan, Ningombam Bijaya Devi
Status of coconut diseases in Andhra Pradesh, India
In India, coconut is predominantly grown in the States of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh in considerable extent with due importance in daily life. Erstwhile East Godavari, West Godavari, Srikakulam Vijayanagaram and Visakhapatnam districts are important coconut growing coastal districts in Andhra Pradesh with significant production and productivity. Major factors that contribute to the loss of production and productivity in coconut are damage due to the insect pests and diseases. The most destructive diseases of coconut in Andhra Pradesh that leads to death of palms are basal stem rot and bud rot. The other important diseases are stem bleeding and leaf blight causing severe yield losses. The last two decades data enlightened that the basal stem rot disease was of serious concern with 25.65 per cent incidence in the year 2001 and slowly waned to 1.25 percent by the year 2023. The hotspot areas recorded highest incidence of 22.60 per cent in Srikakulam district followed by east Godavari district in the (17.85%), West Godavari (10.03%),Vishakapatnam(6.94%) and lowest in Vijayanagaram district (5.42%) during the year 2016 and then deflated in subsequent years by 2021. The next fatal disease in scarce is bud rot disease inflated by 25.63 per cent and deflated to 0.0 percent in subsequent years. District wise survey data in recent years reflected its infection in West Godavari (1.31-0.43%), East Godavari district (1.13%-0.43%), Vijayanagaram (1-0.68%), Srikakulam district (0.85%-0.43%), and lowest in Vishakapatnam(0.7-0.50%), for the year 2016 and downswing by the year 2021. The stem bleeding disease, is not prevalent in all the villages but found to occur in sporadic manner with 10.21 per cent incidence as highest and is dwindled in subsequent decades by 0.43 percent. In the concentric hives of Vijayanagaram district it is noted highest incidence of 5.0 per cent followed by Srikakulam district (4.05%), Vishakapatnam (3.76%), West Godavari (3.34%), and lowest in East Godavari district (1.86%) for the year 2016 and then abated subsequently. In recent years, leaf blight is an emerging serious problem noticed in Eluru district which was initially 0.1 DI during 2020 and swiftly surged to 5.23 DI to7.78 DI, respectively in consecutive years 2022 and 2023.
Copyright (c) 2025 Govardhan Rao V, Neeraja B., Kireeti A., Anoosha V.
Inventory of sources and assessment of impact of waste released in the construction industry on environment in Uzbekistan region
This article examines the impact of industrial enterprises on the environment, the municipal solid waste generated in production processes, their inventory, recuperation, and use of waste as a secondary product. In addition, the cement production process and issues of its disposal are considered. During the operation of a cement plant, household waste is generated. The process examines the environmental status of the cement production enterprise and the measures adopted for the formation and elimination of waste. The main purpose of the enterprise is the organization of cement production by dry method. During the research, qualitative and quantitative standards of expected impacts on atmospheric air, sources and volumes of waste generation, their toxicity class standards for their further disposal were developed, and the impact of installed equipment on surface and groundwater was assessed. Draft standards for maximum permissible emissions (MPI) and production waste generation have been developed based on an inventory of their sources.
Copyright (c) 2025 Gulmira Keldiyarova, Murodjon Hojiyev, Dilbar Yarmatova
Bio-efficacy and viability of antagonistic yeast Pichia sp., in various solid formulations
The investigation, focused on exploiting the antigonistic potential of yeast Pichia spp. (strain YPS10) against fungal and bacterial pathogens, showed that Pichia spp. inhibited mycelial growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini (57.70%) followed by Didymella naikii (50.00%). Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria, X. campestris pv. campestris and X. oryzae pv. oryzae exhibited significantly similar sensitivity to Pichia sp., with the zone of inhibition measuring from 17.60 to 19.00 mm. Formulations were developed using organic and inorganic carrier material after knowing their antagonistic nature. The results depict that the potentiality of different carriers in maintaining viability of Pichia sp., cells varied and their viability of cells lasts longer when the formulations were kept in refrigerators
Copyright (c) 2025 S H Arundhati, A S Savitha, K Ajithkumar, S T Yenjerappa, G H Shivanand