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
Evaluation of bio-rational and reduced-risk insecticides for managing pod borer complex in pigeonpea
Eight treatments comprising of two bio-pesticides, i.e., Azadirachtin 0.15% @ 1.5 l ha-1 and Bt @ 1 kg ha-1 alone or their combination with different insecticides viz., Flubendiamide 480 SC @ 200 ml ha-1, Spinosad 45 SC @ 200 ml ha 1 and Emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 200 g ha-1 along with an untreated control, were evaluated against pod borers in medium duration pigeonpea variety BRG 2. The spraying of the treatments was done once at 50 per cent flowering on appearance of pod borers. Among the treatments, supremacy of Bt @ 1 kg ha-1 + Flubendiamide 480 SC @ 200 ml ha-1 was observed with a record of 0.54-1.82 nos. of larva per twig as against 3.51-5.08 nos. of larvae per twig in untreated control, i.e., highest (75.16%) reduction in larval population over control. The treatment Bt @ 1 kg ha-1 was found to be relatively safer molecule to natural enemies in comparision to other molecules (1.86 nos. per twig) over control. Lowest pod damage at harvest (4.39%), and highest pigeon pea seed yield (21.55 q ha-1) were recorded in Bt @ 1 kg ha-1 + Flubendiamide 480 SC @ 200 ml ha-1, which was significantly higher than all other treatments including control (8.94 q ha-1). The said treatment was also outshined as the most economic treatment with highest B:C ratio of 2.96 and highest net return of Rs. 80976/- ha-1.
Pigeonpea, pod borer, Bacillus thuringiensis, Flubendiamide.
Impact of foliar application of antioxidants and plant growth regulators on growth, yield and quality of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under sub-tropical conditions of Garhwal Himalaya
A field trial was conducted to study the impact of foliar application of antioxidants and PGRs on growth, yield and quality of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under valley condition of Garhwal at Horticultural Research Centre, Department of Horticulture, Chauras Campus, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, Srinagar, Uttarakhand India, during the summer season of 2024. The objective of the experiment was to find out the effect and best treatment among antioxidants and PGRs on growth, yield and quality of tomato. The results were found to be significant for all the parameters studied. The growth parameters were found to be maximum under T2 (GA3 100 ppm), i.e., plant height at harvest (81.01 cm), primary branches per plant (12.50), days taken to first flowering (27.49), days taken to first fruiting (32.18), and number of flowers per cluster (38.74). On the other hand, the treatment T2 (GA3 100 ppm) showed significant influences on fruit yield per plant (6.48 kg), average fruit weight (33.91 g), fruit yield per hectare (480 q), and fruit length (3.10). From the quality point of view, different treatments showed their impact on different parameters. T2 (GA3 100 ppm) treatment showed highest total soluble solids (5.13°Brix) and vitamin C (27.39mg 100g-1) and T9 (ascorbic acid 100 ppm) revealed maximum titratable acidity (0.47%).
Tomato, GA3, kinetin, salicylic acid, ascorbic acid, antioxidants.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nirmal Kumar Kumawat, Deepak Kumar Rana, Khulakpam Naseeruddin Shah, Suryansh Singh, Abhay Singh, Vivek Singh
Predatory efficiency and functional response of Apertochrysa astur to varying densities of Paralerodes bondari peracchi
Functional response and density dependent feeding interaction of Apertochrysa astur against different densities of eggs, nymph, pupa and adults of Paralerodes bondari peracchi BNW were evaluated at HRS, Ambajipeta. All the instars exhibited highest consumption percentages at lower prey densities across all bondars nesting whitefly (BNW) stages, while no response was observed to adult of BNW. Among the three instars, third instar was found to be effective in feeding on all the developmental stages. In the entire study period the linear coefficient of functional response equation for all the predator stages of BNW was negative and significantly different from 0 (p < 0.01), indicated a type II functional response. Overall, functional response of A. astur to different densities of eggs, nymph and pupae, and adults of BNW followed type II functional response with third instar of A. astur being the most effective predatory stage.
Feeding potential, predator, bondars nesting whitefly (BNW), Apertochrysa astur.
Copyright (c) 2026 J Mohitha Reddy, N B V Chalapathi Rao, C P Viji, V Anoosha, V Govardhan Rao
Ethrel assisted sett activation combined with nutrient management: Growth behaviour and quality outcomes in single-node sugarcane
The present study evaluated the effects of ethrel based sett soaking and integrated nutrient management (INM) on leaf area index (LAI), growth parameters, yield components, and juice quality of single-node planted sugarcane. The experiment was conducted at the Sugarcane Research Farm, Samastipur, during the spring season of 2021–2022 using a factorial randomized block design (FRBD) with 20 treatment combinations, each replicated three times, totaling 60 plots. Sett soaking treatments included S1 – without soaking, S2 – overnight soaking in water, S3 – overnight soaking in 50 ppm ethrel, and S4 – overnight soaking in 100 ppm ethrel, while INM comprised N1 – RDF, N2 – RDF + VC @ 5 t ha-1, N3 – RDF + VC @ 10 t ha-1, N4 – RDF + VC @ 5 t ha-1 + PSB + azotobacter, and N5 – RDF + VC @ 10 t ha-1 + PSB + azotobacter. Significant variation in LAI was observed due to both factors, with the highest LAI recorded under 50 ppm ethrel soaking (2.05, 3.77, and 3.25 at 120, 180, and 240 DAP, respectively), slightly differing from the 3.13 value at 240 DAP reported in the results, and remaining statistically comparable to 100 ppm ethrel. Among nutrient treatments, N5 consistently showed the highest LAI across all growth stages, comparable with N4 and N3, indicated the positive influence of organic–microbial nutrient integration on early canopy development. Plant height, cane diameter, single cane weight, and juice quality parameters (brix, pol, purity, juice recovery, CCS) were not significantly influenced by sett soaking or INM, although numerically higher values were observed under 50 and 100 ppm ethrel and N5. Interaction effects between sett soaking and INM were non-significant for all traits. The findings suggested that ethrel based sett soaking and integrated nutrient management could effectively enhance LAI in single bud sugarcane planting without altering structural growth or juice quality, providing valuable guidance for optimizing early-stage crop management practices.
Ethrel soaking, integrated nutrient management, leaf area index, single-node sugarcane.
Copyright (c) 2026 Voggu Spandana, Anil Kumar Singh, Navnit Kumar, R S Bana
Comparative assessment of critical stage and soil-moisture depletion irrigation scheduling for wheat using simulation modeling
Surface irrigated wheat in semi-arid Indo-Gangetic conditions is commonly managed either by fixed-depth irrigations at critical phenological stages or by triggering irrigations when a fraction of total available water (TAW) is depleted. Using a calibrated CROPWAT framework for sandy loam soils and a 60 cm effective root zone, the present study compared (i) critical stage schedules with 40 mm fixed depths (2–6 events) against (ii) soil-moisture-depletion schedules at 50 per cent TAW refilled to field capacity. Seasonal water demand from the model was modest (ETc ≈ 224.7 mm). Under the stage based option, two irrigations at 22 and 85 DAS resulted in very high simulated yield reduction (~81.9%); three events (22, 65, 105 DAS) improved but still ~45.7 per cent loss, and adding a fourth or fifth event produced little further benefit. Only the six event schedule reduced losses to ~5.5 per cent. In contrast, the 50 per cent TAW triggered recommended three events centered on mid and late stages ( ≈ 101, 118, 131 DAS) with no simulated yield reduction, aligned applications with actual root zone deficits and avoided both early percolation and late stress. Results indicated depletion-based scheduling achieved yield protection with fewer, better-timed applications than fixed-depth stage calendars under surface irrigation.
CROPWAT, irrigation scheduling, surface irrigation, wheat.
Copyright (c) 2026 Parmod Sharma, Raj Kumar Jhorar, Devender Singh Bundela, Sanjay Kumar, Kanishk Verma, Narender
Effect of sowing dates and zinc fertilization on soil nutrients availability after harvest of different varieties of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
A field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2023-24 and 2024-25 at the Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Jodhpur. The experiment consisted of twenty-four treatment combinations comprising two sowing dates (5th and 25th November), three varieties (GW 11, DBW 187 and DBW 372) and four levels of zinc fertilization (Control, 25 kg ZnSO4.7H2O ha-1 basal application, two foliar applications of 0.5% spray of ZnSO4.7H2O at flowering and grain filling stage, and 25 kg ZnSO4.7H2O ha-1 basal application + one foliar application of 0.5% spray of ZnSO4.7H2O at grain filling stage). The experiment was conducted in split plot design (SPD) replicated thrice. Results revealed that zinc fertilization markedly enhanced soil nutrient status, with the treatment 25 kg ZnSO4.7H2O ha-1 basal application + one 0.5 per cent foliar spray at grain filling recorded the highest available N, P, and Zn during both the years and pooled analysis. On pooled basis, this treatment improved nitrogen, phosphorus, and zinc by 5.95, 7.98 and 51 per cent over the control, making it the most effective.
Wheat, varieties, sowing dates, zine fertilization.
Copyright (c) 2026 Naresh Kumar, Naleeni Ramawat, Ramdev Sutaliya, Sita Ram Kumhar, P R Raiger, Dama Ram, Ronak Kuri, Mahendra Junjariya
Growth and yield performance of foxtail millet landraces under mid-hill Nagaland condition
Field work under this proposal was carried out during summer season of year 2024 at the Agronomy Farm of School of Agricultural Sciences, Medziphema campus, Nagaland University. The study was conducted under Randomised Block Design with 18 landraces and replicated thrice to reduce experimental error. Seeds of local landraces were collected from different districts of Nagaland before sowing. In summer season, the tallest plants after 90 DAS were recorded in Aslisie (108.33 cm) followed by Khaipüshe, and Kethasüthü recorded shortest plants (63.03 cm). At 60 DAS, when most of photosynthetic activity happened, Sheko and Hyei Nyak (17.60 and 17.67, respectively) recorded statistically maximum number of leaves per plant and Jeinü (7.60) recorded minimum during summer season. Sheko showed maximum number of tillers per plant (4.80). Dry weight of panicle per plant was maximum in Sheko (3.30 g), which was statistically at par with Hyei Nyak (3.07 g). Maximum test weight (2.78 g) was found in Sheko and minimum in Ngopirhü Suthü (2.36 g), which was statistically at par with Sührü, Murasü and China, Sheko recorded maximum seed yield (819.33 kg ha-1), which was statistically at par with Hyci Nyak (781.33 kg ha-1), while minimum seed yield (337.33 kg ha-1) was observed in Ngopirhü Suthü during summer season.
Foxtail millet, growth, seed yield, stover yield, landraces.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lanunola Tzudir, Merentoshi, Kili Awomi, Rekha Yadav, Debika Nongmaithem
Effect of substrate variation on the nutritional composition of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)
The present investigation assessed the influence of various agricultural substrates on nutritional composition of oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus). Five substrate treatments were evaluated: wheat straw, paddy straw, maize straw, a mixture of wheat straw and green gram straw (2:1), and a mixture of wheat straw with tamarind leaves (2:1). The harvested fruiting bodies were analyzed for moisture content, dry matter content, ash content, and total crude protein. Moisture levels differed notably across treatments, ranging from 86.12 to 90.30 per cent, the highest value recorded was in mushrooms cultivated on wheat straw mixed with tamarind leaves. Ash content was greatest in mushrooms grown on wheat straw (9.45 g 100 g-1) and lowest produced from the wheat straw+tamarind leaves (8.05 g 100 g-1). The maximum total crude protein content (27.60%) was obtained from mushrooms grown on the mixture of wheat straw and green gram straw. Overall, the study highlighted that substrate composition had a significant impact on the nutritional composition of oyster mushrooms. Legume–based mixtures were particularly effective in improving protein content. These results provided useful guidance for selecting substrate combinations that enhance the nutritional value of oyster mushroom.
Mushroom, substrate, moisture content, ash content, dry matter content, crude protein.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mallam Udayasri, Ram Chandra, Saurabh Bharti, Tulasi Korra
Impact of morphological parameters on intensity of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) in different genotypes of maize
The study was aimed to screen various maize varieties and cultivars for resistance against the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda J. E. Smith). As an essential component of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), insect-resistant cultivars offer an economical, stable, and environmentally friendly approach to minimize damage from this invasive pest. The research focused on evaluating the role of morphological traits in host plant resistance, as these traits influence the suitability of maize for feeding and oviposition by the fall armyworm. The stem colour was categorized as light green, light brown, light pink, dark pink, and green. Its role in host plant resistance was assessed alongside other morphological traits, including leaf colour, leaf angle, leaf arrangement, presence of tillers, sheath tightness, plant height, and the phenological stages of pest damage. Results indicated that certain morphometric parameters, including stem colour, leaf colour, stem-to-leaf angle, leaf arrangement, presence of tillers, stem tightness, and plant height, contributed to reduced larval populations and damage. Specifically, maize genotypes with a green or light pink stem, medium green leaves, a stem-to-leaf angle of less than 30°, symmetrical leaf arrangement, tight stem type, moderate plant height and the presence of tillers exhibited lower levels of leaf damage. Similarly, cob damage was reduced in genotypes with dark pink or green stems, medium green leaves, stem-to-leaf angle between 30° and 45°, and tight stem type. However, tiller presence had no significant impact on cob damage. These findings emphasized the importance of morphological traits in developing maize cultivars with enhanced resistance to fall armyworm, contributing to sustainable pest management strategies.
Fall armyworm, maize, morphological parameter, resistance.
Copyright (c) 2026 L S Chaudhary, C J Patel, L V Ghetiya, D K Ajudia
Influence of organic nutrient management practices on beetroot growth, yield, and soil microbial population
The experiment to study the effect of organics on beet root growth and yield along with soil microbial population was conducted during rabi season 2023-24 at the Instructional cum Research Farm, Biswanath College of Agriculture (AAU), Biswanath Chariali with twelve treatments viz., T1 (control), T2 (FYM 20 t ha-1), T3 (vermicompost 5 t ha-1), T4 (poultry manure 5 t ha-1), T5 (enriched vermicompost 5 t ha-1), T6 (FYM 10 t ha-1 + vermicompost 2.5 t ha-1), T7 (FYM 10 t ha-1 + poultry manure 2.5 t ha-1), T8 (FYM 10 t ha-1 + enriched vermicompost 2.5 t ha-1), T9 (vermicompost 2.5 t ha-1 + poultry manure 2.5 t ha-1), T10 (vermicompost 2.5 t ha-1 + enriched vermicompost 2.5 t ha-1), T11 (poultry manure 2.5 t ha-1 + enriched vermicompost 2.5 t ha-1), and T12 (RDF, i.e., N.P.K. @ 60:100:60 kg ha-1 + FYM 10 t ha-1).
Organic, beetroot, growth, yield, microbial population.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dipandita Chetia, Nayanmoni Buragohain, Kishalayee Gogoi, Hemendra Choudhury, Ranima Mishra, Gaurav Lahon, Budha Bora
Harnessing microbial consortia for eco-friendly disease control and growth enhancement in coconut (Cocos nucifera) cultivation
The microbial consortia comprising of beneficial bacteria (Pseudomonas fluorescens, P. putida, Bacillus subtilis) and fungi (Trichoderma reesei, T. harzianum, T. asperellum) were evaluated over three years through pot and field trials for their potential to enhance coconut seedling growth and manage soil-borne diseases. Among the treatments, the integrated consortium with a combination of the bacterial and fungal consortia has consistently outperformed individual treatments. It significantly improved key growth parameters, including plant height, leaf length, leaf fresh weight, and root fresh weight, compared to the untreated control at 24 months after sowing. Notably, the integrated consortium achieved the highest levels of disease suppression by 100 per cent against stem bleeding, 68.42 per cent against bud rot, and 41.49 per cent against basal stem rot. The consortia conferred durable resistance to diseases and also plant-growth promoting attributes. These findings highlighted the synergistic potential of a bacterial-fungal integrated consortium in promoting coconut seedling health and resilience under field conditions.
Microbial consortia, coconut diseases, basal stem rot, stem bleeding, bud rot, growth parameters, field evaluation.
Copyright (c) 2026 V Govardhan Rao, Ch Kiran Kumar, V Anoosha, M Sanghamitra
Influence of weather parameters on pollinators in cashew (Anacardium occidentale Linn.)
Pollinators are essential for successful cashew production, as the crop largely depends on insect-mediated pollination. Yet, the cashew productivity remains suboptimal due to inadequate pollination. The present study, conducted at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Pilicode, aimed to document the foraging behaviour of cashew pollinators in relation to key weather parameters such as temperature, humidity, sunshine duration, wind speed, and rainfall. Results revealed that the foraging activity of major pollinators was significantly affected by these weather variables. Apis cerana indica and Tetragonula sp. were more active under cool, humid, and calm conditions, while Lasioglossum sp. and Hoplonomia sp. exhibited greater activity in warmer, drier, and windier environments, indicating higher thermal tolerance.
Cashew, honey bee, pollinator, weather, foraging behavior, climate.
Copyright (c) 2026 Aparna Krishnan, Nisha Lekshmi V
Impact of planting geometry and nutrient management on growth and quality of yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis)
The present study was conducted at the Experimental Farm of the Department of Horticulture at Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat during the 2022-23 period to assess the impact of different nutrient sources, which included organic and inorganic fertilizers as well as biofertilizers, on the growth and quality of yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis) variety Red Ribbon. The experiment was designed in Factorial Randomized Block Design, incorporating treatments spacings S1 = 60 cm × 45 cm, and S2 = 60 cm × 30 cm, with nutrient doses T0 = Control, T1 = 15:35:20 kg NPK ha-1 + 4 t FYM ha-1; T2 = 15:35:20 kg NPK ha-1 + 2 t Vermicompost ha-1 + Biofertilizer (Rhizobium + PSB); T3 = 25:50:30 kg NPK ha-1 + 4 t FYM ha–1; and T4 = 25:50:30 kg NPK ha-1 + 2 t Vermicompost ha-1 + Biofertilizer (Rhizobium + PSB), all replicated three times. Regarding the growth parameters, the highest vine length (198.39 cm), number of branches (21.76), number of leaves per plant (87.00), number of nodes per plant (62.60), internodal length (14.66 cm), days to 50 per cent flowering initiation (35.49 days), number of days from flowering to harvesting (7.75 days), days to first picking (43.89 days), harvest duration (40.43 days), and quality parameters such as carbohydrate content (7.99%), protein content (2.97 g 100g-1), and ascorbic acid (9.37 mg 100g-1) were observed in the treatment 25:50:30 kg NPK ha-1 + 2 t Vermicompost ha-1 + Biofertilizer (Rhizobium + PSB), followed by 25:50:30 kg NPK ha-1 + 4 t FYM ha-1 maintaining spacing 60 cm x 45 cm.
Biofertilizer, inorganic fertilizer, organic fertilizer, spacing, yard long bean.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bedanta Sharma, Manisha Kachari, Sailen Gogoi, Samiron Dutta, Kaushik Das
Energy dynamics and production efficiency of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) under site-specific nutrient management in the North Eastern transitional zone of Karnataka
A two-year field investigation (rabi 2020 and 2021) was conducted at the College of Horticulture, Bidar, Karnataka, to evaluate the production potential, energy efficiency, and profitability of cabbage under site-specific nutrient management (SSNM). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) comprising seven treatments replicated thrice, including six fertilizer-based target yield approaches (25-45 t ha–1), recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF), and farmers’ practice. Fertilizer application rates for SSNM were computed using the IPNI (2019) formula based on nutrient removal per tonne of yield. The soil was characterized by low nitrogen, medium phosphorus, and high potassium availability during both years. Results revealed that SSNM at a target yield of 40 t ha–1 recorded the highest head yield (41.9 t ha–1), energy efficiency (3.28 MJ ha–1), energy productivity (3.76 kg MJ–1), and crop profitability (` 2121.6 ha–1 day–1). In contrast, farmers’ practice registered the lowest performance in all parameters. The enhanced nutrient synchrony under SSNM optimized input use, minimized specific energy (0.37 MJ kg–1), and maximized net energy returns (348.9 × 10² MJ ha–1). These findings highlighted the agronomic and energetic superiority of site-specific nutrient strategies for sustainable cabbage production in the transitional zone of Karnataka.
Cabbage, SSNM, energy productivity, profitability, target yield.
Copyright (c) 2026 S J Imamsaheb, S J Raveendra, C N Hanchinamani, A G Patil
Efficacy assessment of new generation post emergence herbicides in pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.)
A field experiment was conducted consecutively for three years during kharif 2019-20 to 2021-22 at the Nutri Crops Research Station , OUAT, Berhampur to identify suitable post emergence herbicide and optimize the weed management module for pigeonpea. Altogether twelve treatments were taken with different new generation post emergence herbicides in varying combination and doses including weed free and weedy checks. Pendimethalin 30EC @ 0.75 kg ai ha-1 as pre-emergence at 2-3 DAS and one hand weeding and interculture at 50 DAS, common for all treatments excluding T1 (weedy check) and T2 (weed free check), in addition to post emergence herbicides as per treatment at 20 DAS. The trial was laid out in Randomised Block Design with three replications. The growth and yield attributes of pigeonpea were significantly affected by weed management practices. Among the herbicide treatments, the lowest weed density and weed dry matter (WDM) along with the highest Weed Control Efficiency (WCE) at 40 and 60 DAS were recorded in T6 (propaquizafop 2.5% + imazethapyr 3.75% w/w @ 50 + 75 = 125 g ai ha-1 at 20-25 DAS), which was very close to the weed free check. This treatment also recorded maximum plant height (177.2 cm) and yield attributes like number of primary fruiting branch plant-1 (12.8), number of effective pod plant-1 (135.3), number of seed pod-1 (3.62) and ultimately the highest grain yield (1470 kg ha-1). The maximum net monetary return (Rs. 53484/-), maximum incremental benefit cost ratio (6.01) and the highest B:C ratio (2.52) were registered with this treatment. The grain yield was found 244 per cent as compared to the weedy check (427 kg ha-1). Hence, application of pendimethalin 30 EC @ 0.75 kg ai ha-1 (pre-emergence) at 2-3 DAS followed by propaquizalop 2.5 per cent + imazethapyr 3.75 per cent w/w @ 50+75=125g ai ha-1 at 20 DAS, one hand weeding and interculture at 50 DAS was found to be the most efficient weed management module in medium duration pigeonpea.
Pigeonpea, weed management, weed density, weed control efficiency (WCE), weed index, post emergence herbicide, incremental benefit cost ratio.
Copyright (c) 2026 P K Panda, P M Mohapatra, I O P Mishra, S Behera, R K Panigrahi, A A Prusty
Use of chemical fertilizers and organic sources for production of fingermillet in eastern Himalayan region
The proposed experiment was performed in kharif season of 2024 in Agronomy Farm of Nagaland University, SAS Medziphema Campus, Nagaland. The design of experiment was RBD with 8 treatments and 3 replications. Maximum dry matter accumulation was observed in T2 (100% RDF) treatment (30.64 g plant-1), which was statistically at par with T3 (50% N from poultry manure + 50% N and PR from chemical fertilizer) and T5 (100% N from poultry manure and P, K from chemical fertilizers). Maximum number of tillers (2.98) were found in T2 treatment and minimum in T1 (Control) (1.48). T3 treatment achieved maximum seed yield (2459.3 kg ha-1), which was statistically at par with T2 and T4 (50% N from FYM + 50% N and P, K from chemical fertilizers) treatments because of good photosynthesis area as indicated by leaf area index, good number of tillers, number of fingers per head and length of fingers.
Finger millet, poultry manure, FYM, chemical fertilizer, yield.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rekha Yadav, Debia Yashi, Chau Naccaseng Pomoung, Gyan Prakash
Enhancing growth and yield of knol khol: Analyzing triacontanol’s biochemical mechanisms and comparative effects against untreated controls
A field experiment was conducted at the Instructional Farm of The Neotia University, Sarisha, 24 Parganas (South), West Bengal to evaluate the effect of varying concentrations of triacontanol on the growth and yield of knol khol (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes L., cv. Quick Star). The study followed a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with seven treatments—T1 (Control), and triacontanol T2 (1 ml l-1), T3 (1.25 ml l-1), T4 (1.5 ml l-1), T5 (1.75 ml l-1), T6 (2 ml l-1), and T7 (2.5 ml l-1), each replicated fourtines. Among all the treatments, T3 (1.25 ml l-1) exhibited the highest plant height (47.09 cm), number of leaves (13.52), leaf length (30.10 cm), knob length (11.43 mm), knob weight (262.46 g), yield per plot (7.61 kg), and total yield (19.03 t ha-1). However, T6 (2 ml l-1) recorded superior values for stem diameter, knob diameter, root length, and chlorophyll content. Overall, 1.25 ml l-1 triacontanol proved most effective in enhancing vegetative growth and yield under West Bengal conditions.
Triacontanol, knol khol, plant growth regulator, growth attributes, yield attributes
Copyright (c) 2026 Vishal Kumar, Riman Saha Chowdhury, Parvez Mallick, Agniswar Jha Chakraborty, Sourav Mullick, Subhadip Pal
Effect of different preservative chemicals to improve the shelf life of harvested oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus florida)
An experiment was carried out to study the effect of different preservative chemicals on improving the shelf life of the harvested oyster mushroom (Pleurotus florida). Concurrently, the rigorous evaluation of various chemical preservation methods provide a scientific basis for developing effective post-harvest strategies that reduce spoilage and maintain mushroom quality. The harvested mushrooms were treated with five different preservative chemicals. The chemical preservatives used for enhancing the shelf life of sporophores of P. florida worked better under preservative chemical conditions than control ones. Amongst the combination of different chemical preservatives, T3 -3 per cent EDTA + 1.5 per cent citric acid + 1 per cent acetic acid, and T5 -0.5 per cent propanoic acid were highly effective in preserving the sporophores of P. florida till 27 days without much influence on colour, texture, appearance, and overall acceptability. This preservative technique would help in increasing the shelf life of harvested fruiting bodies.
Chemical preservatives, shelf life, Pleurotus florida, oyster mushroom, colour, texture.
Copyright (c) 2026 Drishti Karn, Ram Chandra
Evaluation of phyto-extracts and bioagents against white rot of pea incited by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary
The present investigation was aimed to check the efficacy of six phyto-extracts viz., ginger, turmeric, garlic, tulsi, eucalyptus, and aak at 5, 10 and 15 per cent by using poisoned food technique and six bioagents viz., Trichoderma hamatum, Trichoderma asperellum, Trichoderma harzianum-14, Pseudomonas fluorescens-4, Pseudomonas fluorescens -2, and Bacillus cereus using dual culture technique Among the six phyto-extracts tested garlic clove extract recorded maximum per cent inhibition, i.e., 51.52, 64.30 and 82.49 per cent at 5, 10 and 15 per cent extract, respectively, followed by ginger and turmeric and among six bioagent isolates Bacillus cereus showed maximum inhibition, i.e., 57.03 per cent followed by Trichoderma hamatum and Pseudomonas fluorescens-2.
Pea, white rot, phytoextracts, bioagents, management.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ayushi Chamoli, Sanjeev Ravi
Effect of different concentrations of silver nitrate and aluminium sulphate on the postharvest parameters of gladiolus cv. Priscilla
The present investigation was conducted at the Postharvest Laboratory, Department of Horticulture, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi during February 2025 to see the effect of various floral preservative treatments on the postharvest parameters of gladiolus cv. Priscilla. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with seven treatments involving different concentrations of silver nitrate (AgNO3) and aluminium sulphate (Al2 (SO4)3) each combined with 2 per cent sucrose. Results revealed that AgNO3 50 ppm + 2 per cent sucrose significantly improved most quality parameters, including vase life, floret diameter and solution uptake. Whereas AgNO3 100 ppm + 2 per cent sucrose resulted in good weight of spike, length of spike, floret length and floret longevity. The improvement in postharvest performance was attributed to the synergistic effects of silver nitrate’s antimicrobial and ethylene inhibiting properties and sucrose’s role in enhancing osmotic potential and supplying respiratory substrates. In contrast, the control treatment (distilled water) consistently showed the lowest performance in all parameters. These findings suggested that appropriate combinations of silver nitrate and sucrose could effectively extend the vase life and maintain the visual quality of cut gladiolus spikes.
Gladiolus, ethylene, postharvest life, sucrose, silver nitrate, aluminium sulphate.
Copyright (c) 2026 Florence David, Anil K Singh, Anjana Sisodia
Artificial intelligence in plant disease management
Artificial intelligence (AI) enables the early detection, precise diagnosis and other effective mitigation strategies, which revolutionized the plant disease management practices. Different tools are used in artificial intelligence like learning about machine models and neural networks, which analyse the various datasets from satellite imagery, drone surveillance and other smart phone-based disease recognition, which help in identification of symptoms of plant disease with high accuracy. The two types of techniques are computer vision and predictive analytics. The vision techniques help in the identification of pathogens, however, the predictive analytics help in forecasting disease outbreaks based on environmental and climatic conditions. This AI-powered decision support system assists farmers in choosing the best treatments, minimizing dependence on chemical pesticides, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices. AI also facilitates real-time crop health monitoring by integrating with Internet of Things (IoT) devices and remote sensing technology. There are also some challenges in using AI, such as, scarcity of data, model generalization and accessibility, hinder widespread adoption. There are some aspects of AI, which must be focused in future that include enhancing AI model robustness, improving data collection strategies and also on cost effective techniques to farmers related with AI. It holds potential to transform and revolutionize plant disease management, ultimately improving crop yield, food security, and environmental sustainability.
Artificial intelligence, AI, disease management, detection, agriculture.
Copyright (c) 2026 Vasundhra Negi, R S Jarial, Kumud Jarial, Akshay Rana, Kajal, Akhilesh Sharma
Bioefficacy of novel insecticide Tetraniliprole 200 gl-1 SC (Vayego) against the management of fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on maize
A field experiment was carried out to evaluate the efficacy and phytotoxic effects of Tetraniliprole 200 g l-1 SC (Vayego 200 SC) for the management of fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) on maize. Among different dosages of Tetraniliprole 200 g l-1 SC (Vayego) insecticide the cumulative effect of two sprays against the fall armyworm on maize revealed that the treatment T4 Tetraniliprole 200 g l-1 SC (Vayego) @ 250 ml ha-1 was found to be highly effective against fall armyworm by recording highest overall larval reduction (81.04%) over control, lowest per cent cob damage (30.57) followed by T3-Tetraniliprole 200 g l-1 SC (Vayego) @ 200 m ha-1 with a reduction of 77.82 per cent as compared to dimethoate 30% EC @ 660 ml ha-1 check recorded 43.59 per cent larval reduction. The tetraniliprole at both the concentrations had not shown any phytotoxic symptoms, was safe to natural enemies and recorded highest grain yield of 6425 kg ha-1 and 5870 kg ha-1, respectively.
Maize, Tetraniliprole 200 g l-1 SC (Vayego 200SC), field evaluation, fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, management
Copyright (c) 2026 P Seetha Ramu, P Jogarao, S Swetha, M Suresh Kumar
Enhancing cotton crop productivity and soil health through cotton stalk residue management techniques in dry farming condition
A field experiment was conducted over kharif (June-December), 2015 to 2022 at main Dry Farming Research Station, Junagadh Agricultural University, Targhadia (Rajkot), Gujarat, India to investigate the impact of recycling cotton stalks on cotton yield and yield attributes in such conditions. The experiment consisted of five main plot treatments viz., S1: removal of cotton stalks from plot, S2: surface burning of cotton stalks, S3: incorporation of cotton stalks using rotavator, S4: incorporation cotton stalks using mobile chopper and S5: ex-situ composting of cotton stalks using shredder and three sub plot treatments viz., D1: one irrigation for decomposting, D2: one irrigation + addition of N @ 10 kg ha-1 through urea + compost culture @ 5 kg ha-1, and D3 : addition of N @ 10 kg ha-1 through urea + compost culture @ 5 kg ha-1 at sowing. The stalks management practice S5 (ex-situ composting of cotton stalks using shredder) recorded maximum seed cotton yield (1770 kg ha-1). Whereas, effect of de-composting practices on yield attributes and seed cotton yield was found non-significant. However, the maximum seed cotton yield (1631 kg ha-1) was recorded under decomposting practice D2 (one irrigation + addition of N @ 10 kg ha-1 through urea + compost culture @ 5 kg ha-1). Incorporating cotton stalks positively affected soil fertility leading to improved plant growth and yield. Additionally, the study discussed the potential benefits of this practice in enhancing sustainability and productivity in dry farming systems.
Cotton stalks, incorporation, decomposting, irrigation, surface burning, ex-situ, dry farming.
Copyright (c) 2026 V D Vora, P D Vekariya, S C Kaneria, S A Kasetiya, D S Hirpara
Organic nutrient management for enhancing yield, quality and benefit cost ratio of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench.) var. Arka Anamika in north bank plain zone of Assam
The experiment was carried out at the Instructional cum Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Biswanath College of Agriculture, AAU, Biswanath Chariali during 2022-2023 to study the effect of organics on yield and quality of okra and to find out the most profitable organic nutrient treatment. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 3 replications incorporating 16 treatments viz., T1: FYM @20 t ha-1, T2: vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1, T3: neem cake @ 2 t ha-1, T4: poultry manure @ 5 t ha-1, T5: FYM @ 10 t ha-1 + vermicompost @ 2.5 t ha-1, T6: FYM @ 10 t ha-1 + neem cake @ 1 t ha-1, T7: FYM @ 10 t ha-1 + poultry manure @ 2.5 t ha-1, T8: vermicompost @ 2.5 t ha-1 + neem cake @ 1 t ha-1, T9: vermicompost @ 2.5 t ha-1 + poultry manure @ 2.5 t ha-1, T10: neem cake @ 1 t ha-1 + poultry manure @ 2.5 t ha-1, T11: FYM @ 10 t ha-1 + biofertilizer consortia, T12: vermicompost @ 2.5 t ha-1 + biofertilizer consortia, T13: neem cake @ 1 t ha-1 + biofertilizer consortia, T14: poultry manure @ 2.5 t ha-1 + biofertilizer consortia, T15: FYM @ 10 t ha-1 + recommended NPK and T16: untreated control. Significant variation was observed in the fruit yield related parameters as well as quality parameters. The maximum number of fruits per plant (18.99), fruit length (14.10 cm), fruit girth (6.55 cm), fruit volume (18.42 cc), the weight of individual fruit (15.71 g), fruit yield per plant (0.29 kg) and yield per hectare were recorded in treatment T1. However, the fruit yield per hectare was significantly higher in inorganic treatment T15 (14.12 t ha-1). Among all the treatments the highest vitamin A (375.06 I.U) and vitamin C (29.00 mg 100 g-1) were recorded in organic treatment T5 and minimum fibre content was recorded in T12 (9.76%). Considering the highest B:C ratio (2.53:1) and with superiority among the organic treatments, it could be suggested to the growers of this region to apply FYM @ 20 t ha-1 in okra to get a good crop harvest with quality fruit.
Organic nutrient, yield, quality, okra, benefit cost ratio.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ankita Baro, Nayanmoni Buragohain, B P Gautam, H Choudhury, Ranima Mishra, Kishalayee Gogoi
Impact of phosphorus management on protein content, protein yield and economics of cowpea [Vigna unguiculata L. Walp] in loamy sand
A field experiment on loamy sand soil was conducted to evaluate the impact of different phosphorus management combinations on yield, protein content and economic returns in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp). The study involved nine treatments, including various combinations of inorganic phosphorus (P2O5), enriched compost, phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and mycorrhiza. Among these, the treatment comprising 30 kg P2O5 ha-¹ + enriched compost (1 t ha-¹) + mycorrhiza (T9) recorded the highest protein content (23.58%) and protein yield (353.12 kg ha-¹). The lowest values were observed in the absolute control (T1). Economically, the highest benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 3.69 was achieved with T6 (30 kg P2O5 ha-¹ + PSB). However, T9 resulted in the maximum seed yield (1497 kg ha-¹), gross realization (` 111,561 ha-¹) and net returns (` 75,223 ha-¹), with a BCR of 3.07. The integration of inorganic phosphorus with enriched compost and mycorrhiza (T9) proved to be the most effective strategy, offering synergistic benefits in terms of productivity, quality and profitability. This integrated nutrient management approach is recommended for sustainable cowpea cultivation under loamy sand conditions.
Cowpea, economic returns, mycorrhiza, phosphorus management, protein content.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rohit Kumar, S K Shah, Raju Lal Dhakar, Parveen Kumar
Micro-propagated Musa paradisiaca L. with Pseudomonas fluorescens revealing phytostimulatory activities to reduce the hardening duration
Immature male flower buds of the diploid landrace Musa paradisiaca L. were collected from healthy plants in the farmlands of Ernakulam district, Kerala, between June, 2021 and June, 2023 for laboratory cultivation. The excised flower buds were cultivated on Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal media supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) to promote growth. Multiplication of shoots was accomplished utilising MS medium with 4 mg l-1 BAP, succeeded by elongation and roots on hormone-free MS medium. Acclimatised plantlets were relocated to a greenhouse for additional assessment of the effects of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). The simultaneous application of Pseudomonas fluorescens and L-tryptophan markedly improved plant vigour, growth metrics and biomass relative to control groups. After one month, plants exhibited enhanced root and shoot length, leaf quantity, stem length and both fresh and dry weight. This underscores their promise as an efficient, sustainable biofertilizer in virus-free plantain cultivation by in vitro propagation.
In vitro propagation, Pseudomonas fluorescens, PGPR, inflorescence, L-tryptophan, bio-fertilizer.
Copyright (c) 2026 Smitha Thomas, Dhanya B Pillai, Lizzy Mathew
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.
Assessing the socio-economic dimensions of organic farming in the low hill region of Himachal Pradesh
The study evaluates the socio-economic aspects of organic farming among marginal and small farmers in Himachal Pradesh’s low hill region, focusing on Kangra and Hamirpur districts. A sample of 120 households, 70 marginal and 50 small farmers, was selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected by structured interviews and secondary sources. Analysis covered family structure, education, occupation, land use, and age. Most farmers live in joint families, with an average size of 5.36 members. The majority of household heads were aged 50– 60 years indicating experience in farming. The literacy rate was high at 89.33 per cent, highlighting the role of education in adopting organic methods. While agriculture remained the main livelihood, off-farm income sources also contributed. The findings emphasized organic farming’s potential as a sustainable livelihood option for smallholders in hilly areas. Strengthening institutional support, certification access, and market linkages were crucial for scaling up organic agriculture and enhancing the socio-economic well-being of hill farmers.
Socio-economic, organic farming, small and marginal farmer, Himachal Pradesh.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jasmeet Kaur, Ankit Yadav, Rakesh Singh, Harbans Lal, K D Sharma
Evaluation of mean performance of different brinjal hybrids along with parents and standard hybrid checks for yield and yield contributing traits in summer and kharif
Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) is one of the major commercially and nutritionally important vegetable crop cultivated extensively almost in all parts of India. The present study aimed to evaluate the mean performance of hybrids, parents and standard hybrid checks of brinjal. Twenty eight F1 hybrids including parents and two standard hybrid checks were evaluated for yield and yield contributing traits in randomized block design with two replications at All India Coordinated Research Project on Vegetable Crops, Department of Horticulture, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri. The results revealed that among parents, RHRBR-196, RHRBR-54 and RHRBR-74, and among hybrids, Puna Selection x RHRBR-1, Puna Selection x RHRBR-196, Puna Selection x RHRBR-54 and RHRBR-196 x RHRBR-54 performed significantly better and exhibited the highest mean values for most of the yield and yield contributing characters during both the seasons. Therefore, the outperforming parents could be utilized for development of superior variety or could also be involved in further breeding programme whereas, new hybrid combinations could be further evaluated in yield trails for commercial exploitation.
Mean performance, yield, hybrids, superior variety, commercial exploitation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Parul Mehra, M N Bhalekar, Shikha Jain, Urmila Pansare, Shriram Mhaske, Shubham Singh Patel
Effect of consortium of Chaetomium globosum, Gliocladium rosuem and propiconazole on the expression of defense biochemical enzymes in early blight of tomato
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), a vital horticultural crop worldwide, faces substantial yield losses due to early blight caused by Alternaria solani. The study conducted for two years, evaluated the efficacy of Chaetomium globosum, Gliocladium roseum, and propiconazole, alone and in combination, in mitigating early blight infection in two tomato cultivars, Kashi Aman and Arka Rakshak. A. solani (AS) was isolated and used for pathogenic challenge, followed by various treatments and assessment of enzymatic and physiological responses at 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours post inoculation. Biochemical assays revealed that the combined treatment (CG+P+AS: seed treatment with C. globosum, and foliar spray of propiconazole) consistently elicited the highest induction of defense-related enzymes, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, phenylalanine ammonia lyase, and catalase, as well as increased malondialdehyde content, indicating an amplified oxidative response. Statistical analyses validated the significance of treatment effects across both years of study. The results suggested that the synergistic action of C. globosum and propiconazole enhanced the plant’s systemic resistance, offering a promising integrated disease management strategy for early blight in tomatoes. These findings contributed to the understanding of biochemical defense pathways and underscore the potential of combining biocontrol agents with fungicides to reduce pathogen damage, while promoting sustainable agriculture.
Tomato, early blight, biochemical, management.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ichini Sudhir, Ram Chandra