bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of sowing durations and planting geometries on growth, productivity and quality of garden cress (Lepidium sativum)
Authors: B.K. MEENA  , G.S. CHOUHAN  , A. JOSHI
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) seasons of 201112 and 201213 on a clay loam soil at Udaipur, Rajasthan, to study the effect of sowing durations and planting geometries on growth, productivity and quality of garden cress or chandrasur (Lepidium sativum L.). The treatments comprising 4 sowing durations (41 standard meteorological week 814 October, 43th standard meteorological week 2228 October, 45 standard me- teorological week 0511 November, 47th standard meteorological week 1925 November) and 4 stand geom- etries (30 cm 10 cm, 30 cm 15 cm, 40 cm 10 cm, 40 cm 15 cm) were laid out in factorial randomized block design (RBD). Significantly the highest number of branches (18.8), dry-matter accumulation by plants, crop-growth rate (CGR) (31.2 g/m2/day at 80100 days after sowing), days to 50% flowering and days to 50% pod formation and seed yield (2.2 t/ha), straw yield (8.7 t/ha) and quality traits were recorded when crops was sown during 43 standard meteorological week. While sowing during 43 and 41 standard meteorological weeks being at par with each other. The highest net returns ( 75.1103/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (4.4) were also recorded with 43 stan- dard meteorological week. Planting geometries at 30 cm 10 cm resulted in significantly highest crop-growth rate (CGR) (29.4 g/m2/day at 80100 DAS), seed yield (2.0 t/ha) straw yield (8.3 t/ha), net returns ( 68.0 103/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (4.0) over other planting geometries and remained at par with planting geometry at 40 cm 10 cm. Therefore, crop sown with 43 standard meteorological week at 30 cm 10 cm planting geometries for obtain- ing higher seed yield, quality traits and net returns.
Influence of sources and rates of phosphorus on plant growth, productivity and economics of aerobic rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: DEVIDEEN YADAV  , Y.V. SINGH  , DINESH KUMAR  , SUNITA GAIND  , ANIL KUMAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at New Delhi in rainy (kharif) season of 2013 to study the effect of 2 sources of phosphorus, viz. rock phosphate (RP) and di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), 2 levels of phosphorus viz. 15 and 30 kgP/ha and 2 microbial inoculants viz. phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in different combination along with control on growth, productivity and economics of aerobic rice (Oryza sa- tiva L.). Seed was inoculated with liquid formulation of PSB @ 250 ml/ha before sowing and AMF was applied @ 12 kg/ha in the furrows at the time of sowing. Recommended doses of N (120 kg/ha) and K (40 kg/ha) were ap- plied in all the treatments. Results revealed that plant height, tillers/plant, dry-matter/plant, panicle/plant and yield (5.62 t/ha) of aerobic rice increased significantly due to application of 30 kg P/ha through RP + PSB + AMF. There was significant increase in plant height, tillers, dry-matter, number of panicles and grain yield of aerobic rice with increase in P application rate from 15 kg P/ha to 30 kg P/ha applied either through DAP or RP. The application of 30 kg P/ha through RP + PSB + AMF resulted in highest net return (139.0 103 /ha) of aerobic rice.
Quality and profitability of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) as affected by nutrient-management practices under irrigated condition
Authors: BATER DABI  , J.K. SINGH  , RAJESH KUMAR SINGH  , AKHILESH VISHWAKARMA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out during the winter season (rabi) of 2010 at Agricultural Research Farm, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, to study, the effect of nutrient-management practices on pro- ductivity, economics and quality of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj & Cosson] under irrigated condi- tion. Eight treatment combinations, viz. control, N P [75% recommended dose of nitrogen and phosphorus 67.5 30 (RDNP)], N P (100% RDNP), N P (125% RDNP), Azotobacter + phosphate solubilising bacteria (PSB) (AP), 90 40 112.5 50 N P + AP, N P + AP, N P + AP, were laid out in 3 times replicated under randomized block design. Ap- 67.5 30 90 40 112.5 50 plication of 125% RDNP (112.5 kg N and 50 kg P O /ha) being at par with 100% RDNP under conjunctive use of 2 5 Azotobacter and PSB recorded the maximum growth parameters, viz. plant height (177.3 cm), dry-matter accumu- lation (64.3 g/plant), primary branches/plant (7.67), secondary branches/plant (6.73) and yield attributes, viz. siliquae/plant (140.7), length of siliqua (4.78 cm), seeds/siliqua (12.12) and 1000-seed weight (4.89 g) resulted in 89 and 17.8% higher seed yield (1.72 t/ha) over the control (no NP) and 100% RDNP alone, respectively. How- ever, application of 100% RDNP (90 kg N and 40 kg P O /ha) along with dual inoculation of Azotobacter and PSB 2 5 besides improving quality as well as oil content of Indian mustard (cv. Ashirwad) under irrigated condition, also registered maximum benefit: cost ratio (1.79).
Stand establishment techniques of rice in conjunction with nutrient sources for soil health and productivity of rice (Oryza sativa)wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system
Authors: D.K. SINGH  , P.C. PANDEY  , NAIYAR ALI  , SHILPI GUPTA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 201012 at Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, to study the effect of varying nu- trient sources and methods of rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivation on the growth, yield attributes, productivity, eco- nomics of rice and soil fertility and its carry-over effect on wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.]. The treatment comprised 3 rice-establishment methods, viz. conventional transplanting (CT), system of rice intensifica- tion (SRI) and direct-seeded aerobic rice (DSR) in main-plots, and 4 nutrient sources, viz. N +N 25(FYM) 95(urea), N +N N +N and N , in sub-plots, with 4 replications. Significantly higher number of panicles/ 50(FYM) 70(urea), 75(FYM) 45(urea) 120(urea) m2, leaf-area index (LAI), chlorophyll content of leaf, root dry weight and panicle weight of rice were obtained with system of rice intensification (SRI) compared to conventional transplanting and aerobic methods of cultivation. This method also recorded significantly higher grain yield (5.49 t/ha, pooled over 2 years), being 11% higher than conventional transplanting. The lowest grain yield (4.63 t/ha, pooled over 2 years) was recorded under direct- seeded aerobic rice, being 7% lower than conventional transplanting. System of rice intensification, among 3 rice establishment methods was more advantageous in terms of net return (23%) and grain yield (11%) than conven- tional transplanting. The total productivity (pooled over 2 years) was also higher (9.44t/ha,) under system of rice intensification (SRI) treatment. Among the nutrient sources, N + N produced higher number of panicles/ 75 (FYM) 45 (urea) m2, leaf-area index (LAI), chlorophyll content of leaf, root dry weight, root volume, panicle weight and pooled (over 2 years) grain yield of rice (5.17 t/ha) and wheat (3.77 t/ha). The higher net monetary returns ( 41,450/ha average of 2 years) as well as benefit: cost ratio (1.59; average of 2 years) of the system was also observed under this treatment. N (FYM) + N (urea) kg/ha was found best in improving the yield and yield attributes of wheat after 75 45 rice.
Productivity and profitability of wheat (Triticum aestivum)-based cropping systems under different nutrient-management practices
Authors: GAGAN DEEP SINGH  , A.K. VYAS  , SHIVA DHAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi), summer and rainy (kharif) seasons of 201112 and 201213 at New Delhi, to evaluate the productivity, profitability and land-use efficiency of 4 wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.]-based cropping systems involving wheat, vegetable cowpea [Vigna sinensis (L.) Walp.], mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek], maize (Zea mays L.) and potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), and under 4 nutrients-management practices. System productivity of wheat-based cropping system in terms of wheat- equivalent yield (WEY) was significantly the highest under wheatfallowmaizepotato (14.12 t/ha and 15.02 t/ ha), followed by wheatvegetable cowpeamaize (11.54 t/ha and 12.78 t/ha) during both the years. The land-use efficiency was comparatively higher in wheatvegetable cowpeamaize and wheatmungbeanmaize systems than to wheatfallowmaizepotato and wheatfallowmaize systems during both the years. Wheatfallow maizepotato system recorded the highest system production efficiency (37.86 and 41.16 kg WEY/ha/day), whereas wheatvegetable cowpeamaize recorded highest system economic efficiency ( 339 and 416/ha/day). Wheatvegetable cowpeamaize recorded maximum net returns ( 123.7 103/ha and 151.7 103/ha) during both the years. Application of 100% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) in wheat, vegetable cowpea, mungbean, maize and potato gave significantly highest yield, followed by 50% RDF + 50% RDN through FYM and 50% RDF + 25% RDN through FYM + biofertilizers during the first years. However, all these 3 treatments did not differ significantly during the second year. Highest wheat equivalent yield (WEY) was achieved with the applica- tion of 100% RDF followed by 50% RDF + 50% RDN through FYM and 50% RDF + 25% RDN through FYM + biofertilizers during the first years. However, all these three treatments did not differ significantly during the second year. Substitution of either 50% or 25% RDN through FYM and biofertilizers significantly increased the available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content at the harvest of different crops over control as well as 100% RDF alone.
Efficacy of new formulations of triasulfuron on weeds in wheat (Triticum aestivum) and their residual effects on succeeding maize (Zea mays)
Authors: D.R. BAJYA  , T. PARWEEN  , M.C. LAKHARAN  , S.K. RAZA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out at research farm, Institute of Pesticide Formulation Technology, Gurgaon over 2 years (2011 and 2012) to evaluate the bioefficacy of triasulfuron 20 WG (New source) in wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.] and its residual effect on succeeding maize (Zea mays L.) crop. Different doses of triasulfuron 20 WG (New source) @ 75 and 100 g/ha; triasulfuron 20 WG (existing source) @ 75 and 100 g/ha; metsulfuron 20 WG @ 20 g/ha were applied at 35 days after sowing of crop with knapsack sprayer using flat fan nozzle @ 450 litres water/ha and 3 hand weedings at 15 days interval after emergence of the crop in weed free check. The effect of above mentioned treatments on weed density, weed biomass and weed control index (WCI %) were recorded at 60 days after application (DAA) against broad leaved weeds in wheat fields. The results indicated that the main broad-leaved weeds in wheat field were Chenopodium album L., Anagallis arvensis L., Melilotus sp., Rumex sp. and Lathyrus aphaca L. Metsulfuron 20 WP @ 20 g/ha and existing source of triasulfuran 20 WG @ 75 g/ha was least effective against broad leaf weeds. New source of triasulfuran 20 WG @ 100 g/ha was most effective in respect of weed control and dry-matter accumulation by weeds. Grain yield of wheat with the use of triasulfuron 20 WG (New source) @ 100 g/ha was 3.96 and 3.95 t/ha during first and second year of experimentation, which was the highest among the herbicide formulation. No carry over effect of these her- bicides was observed on succeeding maize.
Intercropping of medicinal and high value crops in autumn sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid) for higher productivity and profitability
Authors: RAJENDER KUMAR  , JAYESH SINGH  , S.K. UPPAL
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during autumn season of 2006-07, 2007-08 and 2008-09 at sugarcane ex- perimental area (Ladhowal), Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana to assess the profitability of intercropping of medicinal and high value crops in autumn planted sugarcane(Saccharum spp. hybrid). Gobhi sarson (Brassica napus L.), canola type GSC 5 and GSC 6 and non canola type varieties GSL 2, celery (Apium graveolens L.) local, barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) VJM 201 and radish (Raphanus sativus L.) Punjab Pasand for seed purpose were evaluated as intercrops. Out of 9 combinations of intercropping, sugarcane+ gobhi sarson GSL 2 (1: 1) re- corded the highest cane equivalent yield of 87.95 t/ha, which was 22 % higher than that of sole crop of sugarcane. The economic analysis also indicated that sugarcane+gobhi sarson GSL 2 (1: 1) recorded the highest net profit of 80,894/ha, followed by intercropping of sugarcane + celery (1:2) and sugarcane + gobhi sarson GSC 5 (1:2) + with 29.0%, 26.9% and 22.2% higher net returns over sole crop of sugarcane, respectively. However, different intercrops did not show any significant effect on cane quality in terms of pol % juice and commercial cane sugar (CCS %).
Productivity, profitability and nutrient uptake of maize (Zea mays) as influenced by management practices in North-East India
Authors: RAKESH KUMAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the 2 winter (rabi) seasons of 201011 and 201112 at Jharnapani, Medziphema, Nagaland, to evaluate the best management practices, i.e. mulching, liming and farmyard manures for maximizing the productivity, profitability, nutrient uptake and quality of winter maize (Zea mays L.). The experi- ment was laid out in a split-split plot design, having 24 treatment combinations of mulching and lime along with farmyard manures and replicated thrice. Application of straw mulches significantly increased all the growth and yield attributes, grain yield, protein content and nutrient uptake by maize. Among the levels of lime, higher grain yield (3.91 t/ha) and stover yield (4.24 t/ha) were noted with application of lime @ 0.6 t/ha. Similarly, significantly higher grain (3.79 t/ha) and stover yields (4.17 t/ha), nutrient uptake, protein yield of maize were recorded with ap- plication of farmyard manures @ 12 t/ha. Application of straw mulch along with 0.6 t/ha lime and FYM @ 12 t/ha recorded markedly higher total rainfall and effective rainfall use efficiency. Hence, straw mulching with 0.6 t/ha fur- rows lime and 12 t FYM/ha should be adopted to obtain the maximum grain yield, net profit and nutrient uptake by winter maize.
Effect of integrated nutrient management on growth, productivity and quality of sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)
Authors: KULDEEP SINGH  , Y.P. JOSHI  , HEM CHANDRA  , DINESH KUMAR SINGH  , RAJNISH SINGH  , MUKESH KUMAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 200708 at Nagla, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, to find out effect of or- ganic and inorganic sources of nutrients on growth, productivity and quality of sweet sorghum [Sorghum bicolar (L.) Moench] forage crop. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design consisting total 12 treat- ments with 4 replications. Treatments comprised control, recommended dose of NPK through inorganic source and different combinations of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients. Application of 75% dose of recom- mended nitrogen through inorganic sources + 25% through vermicompost significantly improved the growth, pro- ductivity and fodder quality over the control. The highest total green fodder yield (52.8 t/ha), dry-matter yield (13.5 t/ha), total crude protein yield (0.92 t/ha), digestible dry-matter yield (6.6 t/ha), juice yield (9,910 kilo litre/ha), sugar yield (0.91 t/ha) and calculated ethanol yield (2,762 kilo litre/ha) was recorded with application of 75% recom- mended dose of N through inorganic sources + 25% through vermicompost during both the years. Fodder quality parameters like juice percentage (26.2), dry-matter content (25.6%), digestibility (48.7%) and neutral detergent fi- bre content (61%) were also highest with this treatment. Available nitrogen and phosphorus content did not vary significantly at harvesting of crop due to different treatments.
Effect of sources and levels of phosphorus on productivity, economics, nutrient acquisition and phosphorus-use efficiency of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) under hilly ecosystems of North-East India
Authors: GULAB SINGH YADAV  , M. DATTA  , SUBHASH BABU  , P. SAHA  , RAGHAVENDRA SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at the ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Tripura Centre during 2013 and 2014, to study the effect of Godawari phosgold (organic source) and single supperphosphate (in- organic source) at varying rates of application on yield, economics, nutrient uptake, and phosphorus (P) use effi- ciency of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Phosphorus supplied through Godawari phosgold (GPG) gave signifi- cantly more pods/plant (60.7), pod yield (1.89 t/ha) and haulm yield (3.22 t/ha) than single supperphosphate (SSP). This resulted in 10.5% and 9.9% increment in pod and haulm yields, respectively, over SSP. Among the P levels, application of 27 kg P/ha recorded significantly higher pods/plant (70.8), kernels/pod (2 kernels/pod), pod (2.09 t/ha) and haulm (3.58 t/ha) yields over rest of the P levels. With respect to nutrients acquisitions, groundnut plot treated with GPG resulted in higher NPK uptake (108.3, 15.8 and 64.0 kg/ha, respectively) over the SSP- treated plots. Among the rate of application, 27 kg P/ha recorded highest NPK uptake. The lowest cost of cultiva- tion was recorded in SSP-treated plots. However, the net returns and benefit: cost ratio was higher under GPG- treated groundnut plots. Although the highest net returns (65.45 103 /ha) and benefit: cost ratio (2.54) were no- ticed in groundnut plots, where 27 kg P/ha was applied. Application of P through GPG significantly increased the partial factor productivity (98.1 kg grain/kg P applied), agronomic efficiency (19.9 kg grain yield increase/kg P ap- plied), recovery efficiency (20.4%) and utilization efficiency (2,185.5 kg biomass/kg P uptake) as compared to SSP. The maximum agronomic efficiency, recovery efficiency and utilization efficiency were recorded with applica- tion of 27 kg P/ha.
Alternate cropping system for central plateau zone of Maharashtra
Authors: W.N. NARKHEDE  , M.S. DESHMUKH  , B. GANGWAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 200810 at Parbhani, to evaluate the production potential of 12 crop- ping systems in central plateau zone of Maharashtra. Of the 12 cropping systems, turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) + castor (Ricinus communis L.) (4:1) intercropping system gave significantly highest net profit ( 171.10 103/ha), economic efficiency of 616.9/day/ha on net monetary return (NMR) basis and soybean-equivalent yield (SEY) (10.5 t/ha), followed by soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]onion (Allium cepa L.), which recorded the net profit of 125.2 103, economic efficiency of 536.4/day/ha, soybean-equivalent yield of 8.2 t/ha, and Bt. cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol]coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) (SEY 8.5 t/ha). Among the cropping sequences, maize (Zea mays L.)chickpea (Cicer arientinum L.)okra (Abelomoschus esculentus L) recorded the highest land-use efficiency (83.6%) followed by maizewheat greengram (83.4%), Bt cottonwheatcoriander (81.7%) and turmeric + castor intercropping system (75.9%). The lowest land-use efficiency was recorded in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]wheat sequence (62.1%). The highest benefit: cost ratio was recorded in turmeric + castor (4:1 ratio) intercropping system (3.8), followed by pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.]groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) (3.7). The employment generation was the highest (317 man-days/ha/year) in maizechickpeaokra system, followed by Bt cottonwheatcoriander (289 man-days/ha/year). The turmeric + castor intercropping system (4:1) recorded the lowest employment generation (136 man-days/ha/year). The highest consumptive use of water (140.2 cm) and water-use efficiency (56 kg/ha-cm) were recorded in maizewheatgreengram cropping sequence, followed by Bt cottonwheatcoriander cropping sequence. The highest soil-nutrient status was maintained in pigeonpeagroundnut cropping system, followed by cottonsummer groundnut.
The role and value of crop residues in dryland agriculture
Authors: W.K. ANDERSON  , K.H.M. SIDDIQUE
Published: December 2023

The major reasons advanced for the retention of crop residues in rainfed systems include increased water infil- tration, reduced evaporation from the soil surface, increased soil organic carbon, reduced soil erosion and ulti- mately the yield of following crops. The residues of crops are valued in various ways in the cropping systems of the dryland regions of the world, including feed for livestock, protection against soil erosion and for maintenance of soil organic matter. Minor uses include building materials, bio-energy production and fuel. Retention of crop resi- dues forms a major part of the system of conservation agriculture along with zero tillage and diverse crop rotation, but retention of crop residues has not been as widely adopted as the other components. This review discusses some of the reasons that crop residues are valued in various agro-ecological environments. It reveals some gaps in knowledge about the short and longer term effects of retaining or removing crop residues and the need to clearly separate the contributions of the components of conservation agriculture. There may be a trade-off be- tween the value of crop residues for livestock feed and the value for soil protection and fertility maintenance. It is suggested that the relative values for different purposes and in a variety of situations requires further elucidation of the impact of residue retention on soil water storage, organic matter content, grain yield increases, and reduction of soil erosion in relation to the potential gains from animal production and survival.
Impact of zinc application methods on zinc concentration and zinc-use efficiency of popularly grown rice (Oryza sativa) cultivars
Authors: BHOLANATH SAHA  , SUSHANTA SAHA  , GORA CHAND HAZRA  , SUSMIT SAHA  , NIRMALENDU BASAK  , ANUPAM DAS  , BISWAPATI MANDAL
Published: December 2023

In the present investigation, 26 rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars viz., some locals, aromatics, high yielding variet- ies (HYVs) and hybrids were evaluated for yield efficiency, Zn content in grains and also Zn recovery efficiency in a strip plot design during the rainy (kharif) season for the consecutive 2 years (2009 and 2010) under varied Zn application practices. Rice cultivars differed significantly in their yield and native Zn contents as well as recovery of applied Zn allocation in grains, straw and roots. Grain and straw yields as well as harvest index of different cul- tivars showed wide variations both with and without Zn applications. On an average, grain yields of different rice cultivars increased by 29 and 22% with soil + foliar and only soil application of Zn, respectively. HYVs showed highest yield efficiency followed by hybrid, aromatic and local cultivars, irrespective of methods of Zn fertilization. The content of native Zn in whole rice grain was the highest in aromatics (27.8 mg/kg) followed by locals (26.3 mg/ kg), HYVs (23.0 mg/kg) and hybrids (22.0 mg/kg). Zinc content in whole grains increased significantly in all the cultivars with Zn-application and the magnitude of increase was higher when Zn was applied as soil + foliar appli- cation (118%) than soil application only (30%). Zinc concentration in milled grains increased to the extent of 29.5 and 119.5% upon soil application and soil + foliar application of Zn fertilizers. In rice bran and husk Zn concentra- tion increased to the extent of 21 and 155% and 41 and 373% through soil and soil + foliar application, respec- tively. Zinc-use efficiency varied from 0.53 to 2.83% with a mean value of 0.90% upon soil application of 20 kg Zn as ZnSO .7H O and 1.89 to 4.80% with a mean value of 2.74% upon application of 20 kg Zn as ZnSO .7H O with 4 2 4 2 two foliar spray @ 0.5% ZnSO .7H O solution i.e. soil + foliar applied Zn increased the Zn-use efficiency, on an 4 2 average, three fold than with only soil applied Zn. Thus, soil + foliar application of Zn offers a useful means for en- riching rice grain Zn concentrations irrespective of the cultivars tested and contributed towards enhanced Zn-use efficiency by rice.
Impact of different crop-establishment methods and weed management practices on productivity of lowland rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: C. SANGEETHA  , A. VELAYUTHAM  , N. THAVAPRAKAASH
Published: December 2023

Field experiments were conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, during winter (rabi) sea- son of 201112 and 201213 to evaluate different crop-establishment methods and weed management practices in lowland rice (Oryza sativa L.) in strip-plot design with three replications. The experiment consisted of 3 estab- lishment methods, viz. conventional planting (C ), system of rice intensification (SRI) marker planting (C ) and SRI 1 2 machine transplanting (C ) assigned in horizontal strips and six weed management practices, viz. conoweeding 4 3 times at 10, 20, 30 and 40 days after transplanting (DAT) (W ), pre-emergence (PE) pretilachlor 50% EC @ 0.75 1 kg/ha + conoweeding at 20 and 40 DAT (W ), PE pretilachlor 50% EC @ 0.75 kg/ha + early post-emergence 2 (EPOE) bispyribac-sodium 10% SC @ 20 g/ha (W ), PE pretilachlor 50% EC @ 0.75 kg/ha + EPOE bispyribac 3 10% SC @ 20 g/ha + conoweeding at 40 DAT (W ), EPOE bensulfuron + pretilachlor @ 0.66 kg/ha + 4 conoweeding at 30 and 40 DAT (W ) and unweeded control (W ) were allotted in vertical strips. The results re- 5 6 vealed that machine planting resulted in significant increase in growth characters, viz. plant height and leaf area index; yield attributes, viz. tillers/m2, panicles/m2, grains/panicle and yields (grain and straw) of rice. With regard to weed management practices, conoweeding 4 times at 10 days interval starting from 10 DAT exhibited maximum values of growth and yield components and recorded higher grain yield. The combination of mechanical trans- planting with conoweeding four times at 10 days interval starting from 10 DAT registered significantly higher growth characters and yield attributes, which in turn exhibited higher grain yield, which was comparable with me- chanical transplanting with pretilachlor (0.75 kg/ha PE) + bispyribac (20 g/ha EPOE) + conoweeding at 40 DAT.
Response of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) to irrigation schedules, sulphur levels and sources in alluvial zone of West Bengal
Authors: D. DUTTA  , D. DUTTA MUDI  , P. MURMU  , T.L. THENTU
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted from 2010 to 2012 at Gayeshpur, West Bengal to investigate the effect of irri- gation schedules, and sources and levels of sulphur on yield and water-use efficiency (WUE) of summer ground- nut (Arachis hypogaea L.). The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with 3 irrigation schedules (0.5, 0.75 and 1.0 IW/CPE) in main plots and 2 sulphur sources (elemental S and gypsum) along with 4 levels of sulphur (0, 15, 30 and 45 kg/ha) in sub-plots. Pooled results showed that the highest pod (2.03 t/ha) and haulm (3.40 t/ha) yields were observed with 0.75 IW/CPE, whereas maximum WUE of 5.99 kg/ha-mm with 0.5 IW/CPE. The highest pods/plant, 100-kernel weight, shelling out-turn, pod yield, oil yield and sulphur-use efficiency were recorded with 30 kg S/ha, however, maximum oil content (48.7%) with 45 kg S/ha. From the quadratic response curve, the pod yield of 2.09 t/ha was calculated with optimum 35.7 kg S/ha. Sources of sulphur had no significant differences in pod yield, oil yield, nutrient uptake, consumptive use and WUE. Uptake of N, P, K and S was significantly varied with irrigation levels and sulphur doses. Soil residual fertility was not affected by treatments except residual sul- phur. The highest gross returns, net returns and benefit: cost ratio were recorded with 0.75 IW/CPE and 30 kg S/ ha.
Yield, quality, nutrient uptake and economics of spring sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) as influenced by balanced fertilization in clay loam soils of Rajasthan
Authors: B.S. MEENA  , BALDEV RAM  , R.S. NAROLIA  , PRATAP SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted from 201112 to 201314 at Agricultural Research Station, Kota, Rajasthan, to find out suitable nutrient-management practices for sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.). The experiment was consisted of 13 nutrient management practices, viz. control, N , N P , N P K (RDF), N P K +S , 200 200 60 200 60 40 200 60 40 40 N P K +Zn , N P K +Fe , N P K + Mn , N P K +S +Zn , N P K +S +Zn +Fe , N P K +S + 200 60 40 5 200 60 40 1 200 60 40 1 200 60 40 40 5 200 60 40 40 5 1 200 60 40 40 Zn +Fe +Mn , N P + S +Zn kg/ha as soil-test recommendation (STR) and FYM @ 20 t/ha were laid out in ran- 5 1 1 150 50 25 4 domized block design with 3 replications. Balanced fertilization of N P K along with S +Zn kg/ha had signifi- 200 60 40 40 5 cant influenced on tillers, number of millable canes (126,060/ha), single cane weight (880 g), cane yield (91.70 t/ha), commercial cane sugar yield (11.96 t/ha) and net profit ( 90,974/ha) over rest of the treatments being on a par with treatments of N P K +S , N P K +Zn , N P K +Fe , N P K +Mn , N P K +S +Zn +Fe , 200 60 40 40 200 60 40 5 200 60 40 1 200 60 40 1 200 60 40 40 5 1 N P K +S +Zn +Fe +Mn , N P +S +Zn kg/ha. Maximum nutrient uptake of N, P and K (265.3, 21.3 and 260 200 60 40 40 5 1 1 150 50 25 4 kg/ha) was recorded with application of N P K +S +Zn kg/ha over rest of the treatments and it was observed 200 60 40 40 5 higher positive net gain of N, P, K and S (8.5, 3.4, 16 and 3.7 kg/ha) was recorded over initial status of soil. The result showed that balanced application of N P K +S +Zn kg/ha may be recommended for obtaining higher 200 60 40 40 5 millable cane yield, net return and sustained soil health in spring planted in clay loam soils of Rajasthan.
Maize (Zea mays)wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system: Intensification through introduction of pulses
Authors: N.K. JAIN  , HARI SINGH  , L.N. DASHORA  , S.L. MUNDRA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out in 3 tehsils, namely Nathdwara, Rajsamand and Kumbhalgarh, of Rajsamand district (Sub-humid Southern Plain and Aravalli Hills Zone) of Rajasthan (IVa) in farmers fields from rainy season (kharif) 2007 to winter season (rabi) 201011, to study the intensification of maize (Zea mays L.) wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.] cropping system through introduction of pulses crop. The ex- periment comprised 5 cropping systems, viz. maizewheat, maizebarley (Hordeum vulgare L.), maize + blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] (2:2)wheat, sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] + greengram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] (2:1)wheat and clusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.]wheat. Maize + blackgram (2:2)wheat cropping system gave the highest maizegrain-equivalent yield (8.22 t/ha), gross returns (87.4 103 /ha), net returns (57.5 103 /ha), land-use efficiency (64.9%), production efficiency (34.7 kg/ha/ day), monetary efficiency (242.8 /ha/day), sustainable yield index (0.65), sustainable value index (0.55), relative productivity efficiency (21.3%), relative economic efficiency (17.4%) and total calorific value (94.7 103 MJ/ha) and could intensified the existing maizewheat cropping system. However, benefit: cost ratio was the maximum (3.18:1) in clusterbeanwheat cropping system. The maximum values of total input energy (36.97 103 MJ/ha), output energy (234.2 103 MJ/ha) and energy-output efficiency (988.3 MJ/ha/day) were recorded in maize + blackgram (2:2)wheat, while energy intensiveness (9.37 MJ/ ) and energy-use efficiency (7.88) in maizebarley cropping system. The maximum values of specific energy (5.10 MJ/kg) and energy productivity (240.0 MJ/ha/day) were recorded in maizewheat and clusterbeanwheat cropping systems respectively.
Effect of tillage and crop-establishment techniques on productivity, profitability and soil health under maize (Zea mays)maizefield pea (Pisum sativum) cropping system
Authors: GULAB SINGH YADAV  , M. DATTA  , SUBHASH BABU  , ANUP DAS  , S.N. BHOWMIK  , HEMAVATI RANEBENNUR  , C. DEBNATH  , P. SAHA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at ICAR Research Complex for North-Eastern Hills Region Tripura Centre, Tripura (W), to study effect of tillage and crop-establishment techniques on productivity, profitability and soil health under maize (Zea mays L.)maizefield pea (Pisum sativum L.) cropping system. The experiment comprised 6 treatments, viz. conventional tillage with flat bed planting (CT-FB), conventional tillage with ridge and furrow plant- ing (CT-RF), conventional tillage with raised bed planting (CT-RB), no-till with flat bed planting (NT-FB), no-till with ridge and furrow planting (NT-RF) and no-till with raised bed planting (NT-RB). Green cobs yield of summer maize was 25.327.4% and field pea seed yield was 17.932.2% higher under NT-RF and NT-RB than CT-RF. Rainy season (kharif) maize grown under NT-RF recorded 12.66% less grain yield than the CT-RF. The NT-RB resulted in the maximum system productivity to the tune of 16.34 and 14.55 t/ha in 201213 and 201314, respectively. The average system productivity was 6.1% higher under systems than to CT systems. Net returns and benefit: cost ratios showed the similar trends as shown by system productivity. Under the NT-FB, soil organic carbon was 13.2% higher than CT-FB. However, the CT-RB recorded higher soil pH as compared to all the other treatments. The available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were higher with NT systems compared to CT systems. There- fore, cultivation of maizemaizefield pea cropping system under NT-RB system may be adopted for higher pro- ductivity and profitability and for sustaining the soil health.
Weed regimes in agro-ecosystems in the changing climate scenarioA review
Authors: BHAGIRATH S. CHAUHAN  , KULASEKARAN RAMESH
Published: December 2023

Changes in temperature, and the amount, intensity, frequency, and distribution of rainfall, collectively known as climate change, can have beneficial or adverse effects on weeds interfering with agriculture. Implicit in discussion of weed management and climate change is the assumption that we know what to do in relation to soil and crop management, but these strategies might not apply to the unexpected future climate change conditions, particularly weed menace. There is confusion in interpreting weed management for the weather fluctuation in a region, as there is a clear-cut distinction between climate change and climate variability. Soil warming could enhance the availability of certain elements in the soil by faster ion-diffusion rate and the soil-moisture stress could boom weed proliferation. Judicious agronomic practices would partially help to offset weed pressure, but climate may have over-riding influence on weeds, as they share the same trophic level with crops. Implications of climate change would be identical with crops, aggravating the crop-weed competition. Many of the most troublesome weeds in crop ecosystems follow C pathway. As atmospheric CO increases, it is conceivable that competitive ability of 4 2 weeds could be similar to C crops, such as rice, if there is no dearth of soil moisture and nutrients. From a weed- 3 management perspective, C weeds would flourish under the increased temperature scenario and pose serious 4 yield limitation. It is speculated that reduced water availability due to recurrent/unforeseen droughts would alter the competitive balance between crops and some weed species, intensifying the crop-weed competition pressure. Research conducted indicated that a rise in temperature would benefit C weeds but not the rising CO levels. 4 2
Integrating herbicidal and conventional approach for profitable weed management in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea)
Authors: PARVENDER SHEORAN  , VIRENDER SARDANA  , ASHWANI KUMAR  , ANITA MANN  , SUKHVINDER SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy seasons of 2009 and 2010 at Ludhiana, Punjab in the Indo- Gangetic alluvial plains, to work out an effective weed-management strategy in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Almost two-thirds of the weed infestation was dominated by sedges, followed by broad-leaf (26.3%) and grassy (9.3%) weeds. Season long weed competition reduced the mean seed yield of groundnut by 60.9%. Alone appli- cation of herbicides either through pendimethalin or imazethapyr provided effective weed control (43.553.3% weed-control efficiency) but the late flushes and escaped/ regenerated weeds at later stages hampered the crop yield significantly. Integrated approach involving sequential application of pendimethalin 0.75 kg/ha pre-emer- gence (PE) and imazethapyr 0.05 kg/ha post-emergence (POE) supplemented with 1 hand-weeding 45 days after sowing (DAS) provided 83.7% weed-control efficiency, 2.11 Vha pod yield, '(4.3 x 103ma net returns with benefit: cost ratio of 2.99 which was as good as implying 2 hand-weedings 3 and 6 weeks after sowing.
Influence of seasonal variability and conservation tillage on flower production and boll retention of Bt cotton (Gossypium hirsutum)
Authors: D. BLAISE
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted at Central Institute for Cotton Research, Nagpur, Maharashtra, to monitor flower and boll production in Bt transgenic cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) hybrid (RCH 2 Bt. hybrid) as influenced by climatic factors and conservation tillage practices in selected treatments. Two reduced tillage (RT) systems, with limited soil disturbance in the form of inter-culture operations (RT1) and no soil disturbance (RT2), were compared with the conventional tillage treatment (CT). The tillage treatments comprised subplots with and without green ma- nure. Conservation-tillage treatments had 1215% more bolls retained on a plant than the conventional tillage. Ir- respective of the tillage systems, flower and boll production varied among years. Flower production correlated negatively with the maximum and minimum temperature (P
Precision nitrogen-management practices influences growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum) under conservation agriculture
Authors: S.K. MOHANTY  , A.K. SINGH  , S.L. JAT  , C.M. PARIHAR  , V. POONIYA  , S. SHARMA  , SANDHYA  , V. CHAUDHARY  , BAHADUR SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at New Delhi during the winter (rabi') season of 201213, to study the preci- Sion nitrogen management in wheat [Triticum aestivum emend. Fiori & Paol-] grown under conservation agri- culture. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized-block design with 20 treatments combinations of four nutrient management in preceding maize (Zea mays L.) [absolute control, recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF), 50% RDF and site-specific nutrient management (SSNM)] and 5 precision nitrogen-management practices in Wheat [control, RDF, green seeker, SPAD and soil-test crop response (STCR)]. Among the tested technologies for precision N management; a saving of N by 9.5 and 30 kg with green seeker and SPAD, respectively, while en- hancement of 18.4 kg Wha by STCR was found compared with RDF. The STCR-based nutrient-management plots received very less potassium (5.6 kg/ha) than RDF (40 kg/ha). The wheat growth parameters, viz. plant height, dry-matter accumulation, leaf-area index (LAI), tillers, crop-growth rate (CGR), relative growth rate (RGR) and net assimilation rate (NAR) were significantly higher by STCR-based nutrient management as well as with nu- trient expert-based SSNM applied in maize as residual effect. The yield attributes, viz. effective tillers/m2, grains/ spike, harvest index and 1 ,OOO-grain weight, were also recorded significantly higher with STCR and SSNM. How- ever, the grain yield was 5% higher with STCR compared to RDF which was on a par with green seeker-based N management. Thus, the RDF in wheat needs to be revisited in westem Indo Gangetic plains (IGP) as it responded to higher N levels and lower K application and green seeker sensor can be used for real time N management of wheat in this region while SSNM found best for maize.
Efficacy of pre- and post-emergence herbicides with and without weeding in forage cowpea (Vigna unguiculata)
Authors: TARAMANI YADAV  , NISHA. K. CHOPRA  , N.K. CHOPRA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Forage Research and Management Centre of the National Dairy Re- search Institute, Karnal, Haryana during the rainy season (kharif) of 2014 on sandy clay loam soils, to find out cost-effective weed-control method in forage cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.]. Application of pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha as pre-emergence followed by 1 hand-weeding (HW) 40 days after sowing (DAS) resulted in the lowest weed density, weed dry matter and the highest weed control efficiency, herbicide efficiency index and weed-man- agement index and was followed by imazethapyr 0.075 kg/ha followed by hand-weeding (HW) at 40 DAS due to the efficient control of dominant weed Trianthema monogyna. Uncontrolled weeds reduced the seed yield by 43% compared to weed-free treatment. Pendimethalin @ 1.0 kg a.i./ha + 1 HW at 40 DAS recorded maximum seed yield, net returns and benefit: cost ratio.
Productivity, resource-use efficiency and economics of maize (Zea mays)wheat (Triticum aestivum)greengram (Vigna radiata) cropping system under conservation agriculture in irrigated north-western Indo-Gangetic plains
Authors: A.A. SAAD  , T.K. DAS  , D.S. RANA  , A.R. SHARMA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 201112 and 201213 in New Delhi, to evaluate conservation agricul- tural practices on crop productivity, profitability and resource-use efficiency of maize (Zea mays L.)wheat [Triti- cum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.] greengram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] cropping system. Four main plots treatments, viz. conventional tillage with flat and raised bed planting (CTF and CTB) and zero tillage with flat and raised bed planting (ZTF and ZTB) were supplemented with 4 subplots treatments, viz. no residue control (CON), wheat residue in maize crop (WR), maize residue in wheat crop (MR) and wheat + maize residue (WMR) in both maize and wheat crops. Each residue was applied at 2.5 t/ha. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design. Greengram was grown during summer under zero till condition and its residue was retained in all the plots except CON. The results of 2 year pooled data revealed that the system productivity (maize grain-equivalent yield, MGEY) was found comparable among ZTF, ZTB and CTB (13.013.2 t MGEY/ha). The ZTF incurred the least cost ( 73.4 thousand/ha), but fetched significantly higher net returns ( 94.1 thousand/ha) and benefit: cost (1.28) in the cropping system. Irrigation water productivity and energy productivity of the system were significantly higher with ZTB. The WMR increased the total cost by 16.5% in comparison to CON, however, showed the highest crop productivity, profitability and water productivity of the system. The WMR showed the least energy productivity. Overall, zero tillage with residue retention throughout crop cycle was more productive, remunerative and irrigation water-use efficient in the maizewheatgreengram system.
Yield and nutrient uptake of maize (Zea mays)wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system as influenced by integrated potassium management
Authors: SANJEEV KUMAR  , SHIVA DHAR  , ASHOK KUMAR  , DILEEP KUMAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) and winter (rabi) seasons of 201011 and 201112 at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, to study the performance of maize (Zea mays L.)wheat [Triticum aestvum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.] cropping system with integrated potassium fertilization through muri- ate of potash and farmyard manure. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design, consisting of 10 treatments and replicated thrice. All the treatments with potassium irrespective of sources resulted in significantly increased grain yield, straw yield and nutrient uptake in soil. The application of 60 kg K through muriate of potash + 30 kg K through farmyard manure resulted in the highest grain yield (4.9 t/ha) and stover yield (6.8 t/ha) in maize and grain yield (5.4 t/ha) and straw yield (8.6 t/ha) in wheat which was found significantly superior to grain yield (2.5 t/ha) and stover yield (4.9 t/ha) in maize and grain yield (3.8 t/ha) and straw yield (7.4 t/ha) of wheat in the control. All treatments applied with farmyard manure showed higher nutrient uptake as well as increased nutrient availability in soil over the control.
Need for determining ecofriendly optimum fertilizer nitrogen level for better environment and for alleviating hunger and malnutrition
Authors: RAJENDRA PRASAD  , GURBACHAN SINGH  , YASHBIR SINGH SHIVAY  , HIMANSHU PATHAK
Published: December 2023

Asia accounts for about two-thirds of hungry and malnourished people in the world and within Asia, South Asia, which includes India, Pakistan and Bangladesh accounts for about 34.3%, which in absolute numbers are 276.4 million people. Cereals are the staple food in Asia and alleviation of hunger aims at increasing the availability of cereals (rice, wheat, maize etc.) in these countries. It is estimated that without fertilizer nitrogen about half of the world population would have remained hungry and malnourished. However, excess fertilizer nitrogen is detrimen- tal to the environment. Ammonia volatilized from surface applied fertilizer nitrogen reduces air quality, while ni- trous oxide is a powerful greenhouse gas contributing to global warming and is also responsible for depletion of atmospheric ozone. Excessive nitrogen fertilizer is reported to increase nitrate concentration in drinking water leading to blue baby syndrome or methaemoglobinemia, while eutrophication of surface water is responsible to mortality of fish and other sea creatures. Therefore, efforts are underway to increase the efficiency of fertilizer ni- trogen by using 4Rs, namely, right source applied at the right rate, time and depth. A number of studies have indi- cated that it is possible to obtain the desired production of cereals with much lesser nitrogen rates and it is sug- gested to shift from economic optimum rate (Econ ) to ecological optimum rate (Ecol ) rate of nitrogen applica- opt opt tion to cereals in making out fertilizer recommendations. This exercise has not yet been done by the agronomists in India and is strongly recommended.
Evaluation of leaf-colour chart for need-based nitrogen management in maize (Zea mays) grown under irrigated condition of Mollisols
Authors: VEER SINGH  , AMIT BHATNAGAR  , AJEET PRATAP SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field study was conducted at Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, during the rainy (kharif) season of 2013 and 2014 us- ing leaf-colour chart (LCC) as a tool to know nitrogen demand in maize (Zea mays L.) crop and to evaluate and establish LCC threshold value for saving fertilizer N and achieve higher grain. The LCC-treated plots showed higher increase in grain yield/kg N applied over fixed time interval of N treatments. Using of LCC score 3.0 with 90 kg N/ha showed grain-yield equivalent to 120 and 150 kg N/ha applied at fixed time interval and gave higher re- covery efficiency to the tune of 12.118.1 unit and 4.15.1 kg higher grain yield/kg fertilizer N applied, whereas LCC 5.0 resulted in significant higher grain yield. Application of fertilizer N with 1.0 unit increase in LCC score sig- nificantly enhanced grain yield but no response of fertilizer N was seen when applied at reproductive stage. Soil- available N increased significantly with increasing the LCC values and was significantly superior at LCC < 5.0 fol- lowed by 150 kg N/ha applied at fixed time interval. Leaf-colour chart-based N management reduced anthesis silking interval by 0.21.4 days compared to fixed time interval. Strong correlation was obtained for LCC score with N content and grain yield at the reproductive stage. Leaf-colour chart values against grain yield indicated that LCC 4.6 at vegetative stage and LCC 4.9 at reproductive stage can guide crop demand-driven N application to en- hance yield and saving N in maize under irrigated condition of Mollisols in tarai region.