bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of land configuration and mulching on productivity and energy use in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea)
Authors: A.S. KAMBLE  , B.D. WAGHMODE  , V.V. SAGVEKAR  , V.C. NAVHALE  , U.V. MAHADKAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 201315 on acid lateritic soils of Konkan, to study the effect of land configuration and mulching on resource use efficiency and productivity of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). The experiment consisted of 4 land configuration and 3 mulching treatments. The pooled results revealed that, groundnut pod yield was significantly influenced by various land configuration and mulching treatments and it was significantly highest under broad bed and furrow method of land configuration (8020 cm) i.e. 2.48 t/ha over flat bed sowing, ridges and furrow method (50 cm) and raised bed and furrow (30 width with 30 cm furrow) method of sowing. However, use of transparent polythene (7 micron) film mulch resulted in significantly higher pod yield of 2.50 t/ha over paddy straw mulching (2.18 t/ha) and no mulching (control), i.e. 1.70 t/ha. The maximum field water-use efficiency was observed under broad bed and furrow method with transparent polythene mulch (1.77 kg/ha-mm) treatment. Economics of the treatments indicated that, groundnut sown on broad bed and furrow method topped in the rank for net returns ( 31,392/ha) with benefit: cost ratio of 1.41:1. However, trans- parent polythene mulch noticed higher net returns of 26,341/ha with benefit to cost ratio 1:1.32 followed by paddy straw mulching ( 17,597/ha with 1.23 : 1 benefit: cost ratio). Broad bed furrow method with polythene mulch treatment showed the highest field water-use efficiency of 1.77 kg/ha mm, highest energy balance (63629 MJ/ha) with higher energy-use efficiency (4.11) and energy productivity of 0.14 kg/MJ.
Crop-weed competition in Napier Bajra hybrid (Pennisetum purpureum Pennisetum glaucum) under different planting materials
Authors: P.K. GILL  , U.S. TIWANA  , SIMERJEET KAUR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted to find out critical period of crop-weed competition and to determine the ex- tent of green fodder yield loss in Napier Bajra hybrid (Pennisetum purpureum Pennisetum glaucum) at forage re- search farm, Ludhiana, Punjab, during 2014 and 2015. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design, keeping two planting materials (rooted slips and stem cuttings) in main plot and weed-infestation durations (weed infested till initial 10, 20, 30, 40 and 60 days after planting and weed-free for initial 10, 20, 30, 40 and 60 days after plant- ing) in subplot. Rooted slips recorded significantly higher green fodder yield than stem cutting. The higher fodder yield with rooted slips might be owing to more vigorous plant growth at early stage. The reduction in fodder yield in the control (weedy check) was 43.2% as compared to weed-free conditions. The critical period of crop-weed com- petition was found to be 1030 days after planting on the basis of different weed-infestation durations. Gompertz and logistic equations fitted to yield data in response to increasing period of weed control and weed interference showed that rooted slips (432 days) had longer critical period that stem cutting (527 days). Critical weed-free period for rooted slips planting was more than stem planting by 6 days during both years. However, Napier Bajra hybrid planted with rooted slips significantly overcome the weed pressure than stem cutting during both years.
Effect of irrigation scheduling and nitrogen application on productivity and profitability of direct seeded rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: ANITA KUMAWAT  , SEEMA SEPAT  , RAMANJIT KAUR  , DINESH KUMAR  , DINESH JINGER
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif), season of 2015, to study the effect of irrigation scheduling and split application of nitrogen on productivity and profitability of direct-seeded rice (DSR) (Oryza sativa L.). The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with 12 treatment combinations including 4 irrigation schedules, viz, 0 kPa; 10 kPa, 20 kPa and 10 kPa during entire stage except 40 kPa at tillering to flowering stages in main plot and 3 N (120 kg/ha) application methods, viz. control (N ), half recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) 0 as basal + one-fourth RDN at week 2 + one-fourth RDN at week 5, and one-fourth RDN as basal + one-fourth RDN at week 2 + one-fourth RDN at week + one-fourth RDN at week 9 after sowing in subplot were taken with 3 replications. Irrigation scheduling at 0 kPa resulted in the highest yield attributes, grain and straw yields and net returns of DSR, which was remained at par with 10 kPa. Four times split application of N as one-fourth RDN as basal + one-fourth RDN at 2 week + one-fourth RDN at week 5 + one-fourth RDN at week 9 recorded significantly high grain and straw yields and net returns over half RDN as basal + one-fourth RDN at week 2 + one-fourth RDN at week 5 and control. Thus, irrigation threshold of 10 kPa with 4 times split application of RDN can be applied to DSR to get higher yield and net returns.
Effect of different nitrification inhibitors doses and varying nitrogen levels on productivity and economics of hybrid maize (Zea mays)
Authors: KAMLESH KUMAR  , ASHOK KUMAR  , K.S. RANA  , S.L. JAT  , ARVIND KUMAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season of 2013 at New Delhi, to study the yield and eco- nomics of PMH 3 maize hybrid (Zea mays L.) under different doses of nitrification inhibitors and varying levels of nitrogen. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 14 combinations of 3 nitrification inhibi- tors (dicyandiamide, neem oil and meliacin) each with 2 different concentrations and 2 levels of nitrogen (135 and 180 kg/ha). Highest number of cobs/plant, grain rows/cob and grains/row were recorded with the application of MCU @N The grain yield, stover yield and harvest index of maize as influenced by different doses of nitrifica- 350 180. tion-inhibitors and varying levels of nitrogen were found significant and the highest grain and stover yield (7.25 and 7.93 t/ha) were recorded with the application of MCU @N . DCD @ N recorded the highest cost of cul- 350 180 10% 180 tivation ( 38,813/ha), whereas highest net returns ( 68,482/ha) and net returns/rupee invested (1.99) were re- corded under MCU @N followed by MCU @N ( 66,832/ha, 1.93), while the minimum ( 23,633/ha, 0.74) 350 180 700 180 in the control.
Deep placement and foliar fertilization of nitrogen for increased use efficiency An overview
Authors: RAJENDRA PRASAD  , Y.S. SHIVAY
Published: December 2023

Fertilizer nitrogen is the most important plant nutrient in agriculture all over the world. It accounts for about 68% of the total plant nutrients (NPK) consumed in India. About an 80% N is consumed as urea in India. Since the effi- ciency of fertilizer N is 50% or less, efforts are needed to increase it, because unutilized N is lost to atmosphere and groundwater creating pollution problems. Deep placement and foliar application of urea can significantly in- crease nitrogen-use efficiency, but adequate data on these aspects are not available and need to be created with- out further delay.
Influence of irrigation schedules and fertilizer levels on barley (Hordeum vulgare) in western Uttar Pradesh
Authors: JAIBIR TOMAR  , PRAWANEESH KUMAR  , ARVIND KUMAR  , ASHOK KUMAR  , SANDHYA  , SUDHIR KUMAR  , S.R. KUSHWAHA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out at the Janta Vedic (P.G.) College, Baraut, Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, to study response of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) to irrigation scheduling and fertilizer levels during the winter (rabi) sea- son of 201415. The experiment was conducted in split-plot design with three irrigation levels viz. one irrigation at tillering stage, 2 irrigations at tillering and flag-leaf stage, 3 irrigations at tillering, flag leaf and milking stage and 4 fertility levels, viz. recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) : 60 kg N : 30 kg P O : 30 kg K O/ha, RDF + biofertilizer 2 5 2 [Azotobacter + phosphate solubilizing bacteria), RDF + biofertilizer + vermicompost (2.5 t/ha) and RDF + biofertilizer + FYM (5 t/ha) in subplots. The growth attributes, yield and yield attributes were the maximum with 3 ir- rigations applied at tillering, flag leaf and milking stage as compared to 2 irrigations applied at tillering and flag-leaf stage and once at tillering stage. Three irrigations applied at tillering, flag leaf and milking stage also registered the maximum gross and net returns of barley. The combined application of RDF + biofertilizer + FYM (5 t/ha) re- sulted in significantly highest grain, straw and biological yields of barley as compared with the rest doses of fertil- izer application. Maximum nitrogen uptake and higher net returns were also higher with recommended dose of fer- tilizer + biofertilizer + FYM (5 t/ha). Thus for getting higher yield and net returns in barley, 3 irrigations should be applied at tillering, flag leaf and milking stage and crop should be fertilized with RDF + biofertilizer + FYM (5 t/ha) in Indo-Gangetic plains.
Efficacy of sequential application of imazethapyr + imazamox and propaquizafop in cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) in two texturally different soils
Authors: MEENAKSHI SANGWAN  , SAMUNDER SINGH  , SATYAVAN
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during winter (kharif) season of 2013 to evaluate at the farmers field in Kheri Batter, Bhiwani on loamy sand soil and at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar on sandy loam soil efficacy of sequential application of different herbicides on cluster bean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub] Pre-emergence (PRE) application of pendimethalin @ 1.0 kg/ha provided 8590% weed dry weight re- duction up to 30 days after sowing (DAS); however at 60 DAS percent reduction of weed dry weight was lowered by 2530% under both the soil texture. At 60 DAS, maximum dry weight reduction (95% at Kheri Batter and 91% at Hisar) was recorded, under post-emergence (POE) sequential application of imazethapyr 100 g/ha fb propaquizafop 62.5 g/ha; which was at par with imazethapyr + imazamox (Odyssey) 70 g/ha fb propaquizafop 62.5 g/ha. The efficacy of imazethapyr + imazamox was lower in sandy loam soil than loamy sand. A sequential application of imazethapyr 100 g/ha fb propaquizafop 62.5 g/ha and imazethapyr + imazamox 70 g/ha fb propaquizafop 62.5 g/ha POE resulted in the highest seed yield and maximum net returns at the Kheri Batter loca- tion; but at Hisar location, highest seed yield and maximum net returns were observed under imazethapyr 100 g/ ha fb propaquizafop 62.5 g/ha. Lower yield and net returns were observed under imazethapyr + imazamox 70 g/ ha at 3 weak after sowing (WAS) fb propaquizafop 62.5 g/ha at 6 WAS at location Hisar, due to lower efficacy of Odyssey in sandy loam soil against Trianthema portulacastrum.
Influence of rice (Oryza sativa)wheat (Triticum aestivum) system diversification on productivity and profitability under Garhwal Himalayan region
Authors: DINESH KUMAR SINGH  , ROHITASHAV SINGH  , GAURAV DEEP SINGH  , AJIT PRATAP SINGH  SUMIT CHATURVEDI  , AMARJEET RATHI
Published: December 2023

The experiment was conducted at 12 farmers fields during 200910 and 201011 to find out the alternate effi- cient cropping systems in rice (Oryza sativa L.)wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cropping system in Garhwal Himalayas. Five cropping systems including the existing ricewheatfallow cropping system were tested at 12 farmers fields as researcher designed farmer managed trials. Highest rice-equivalent yield (26.45 t/ha) was re- corded with the ricevegetable pea (Pisum sativum L.)vegetable Frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cropping system and it was followed by riceIndian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj. & Cosson]blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] (16.0 t/ha), ricemustardgreengram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] (14.97 t/ha) and ricewheat + Indian mustardfallow (10.43 t/ha) cropping systems. Highest net returns ( 236.7 thousand/ha) was also re- corded under ricevegetable peavegetable Frenchbean system and it was followed by riceIndian mustard blackgram ( 115.5 thousand/ha), riceIndian mustardgreengram ( 109.5 thousand/ha). The highest benefit: cost ratio (2.74) was recorded with ricevegetable peavegetable Frenchbean cropping system. The highest in- crease in net profit over the traditional ricewheat cropping system ( 150.8 thousand/ha) was recorded under the ricevegetable peavegetable Frenchbean cropping system
Productivity and profitability of wheat (Triticum aestivum) as influenced by different cropping systems and nutrient sources
Authors: RAKESH KUMAR VERMA  , YASHBIR SINGH SHIVAY  , DINESH KUMAR  , PRAKASH CHAND GHASAL
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) seasons of 201415 and 201516 at New Delhi, to evaluate the effects of cropping systems and nutrient sources on yield attributes, yields and economics of wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol]. Of the tested cropping systems, direct-seeded basmati rice (DSBR) (Oryza sativa L.)wheatmungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek] system exhibited the highest values of yield at- tributes, viz. effective tillers, grains/spike and 1,000-seed weight which led to the highest grain yield (4.44 t/ha) and wheat equivalent yield (WEY) (11.7 t/ha). Among the nutrient sources, application of 50% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) + 25% recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) through vermicompost (VC) + bio-fertilizer re- sulted in the highest yield attributes, grain (4.76 t/ha) and straw (6.86 t/ha) yields and gross returns (105.07 103 /ha) followed by 50% RDF + 25% RDN through leaf compost (LC) + bio-fertilizer. A strong positive correlation (r2 = 0.690.97) was also observed between yield attributes (effective tillers/m2 and grains/spike) and yield of wheat. The uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in grain and straw of wheat remained statistically identical in DSBRwheatfallow and DSBRwheatmungbean systems. Application of 50% RDF + 25% RDN-VC + bio-fertilizer registered significantly the highest uptake of N, P and K in both grain and straw of wheat and found on a par with 50% RDF + 25% RDN-LC + bio-fertilizer and 100% RDF. On the basis of net returns an application of 100% RDF was found superior to all the treatments. Therefore, DSBRwheatmungbean cropping system in conjunction with 50% RDF + 25% RDN-VC + bio-fertilizer or 50% RDF + 25% RDN-LC + bio-fertilizer significantly improved the yield attributes, leading to higher productivity and profitability of wheat over the control.
Long term effect of nutrient management practices on performance of quality protein maize under maize (Zea mays)wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping sequence
Authors: R.P. MANJHI  , P. MAHAPATRA  , S. SHABNAM  , M.S. YADAVA
Published: December 2023

An investigation was carried out during (200911) at Ranchi, Jharkhand, in the field under long-term experi- ment since 1983, to evaluate the performance of HQPM 1 maize (Zea mays L.) as affected by continuous appli- cation of different nutrient-management practices under maize (Zea mays L.)wheat [Ttriticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.] cropping sequence. Combined application of organic sources, namely farmyard manure (FYM), cut paddy straw and green karanj [Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre] leaves along with chemical fertilizers im- proved maize grain yield, yield-attributing characters, viz. cobs/plant, length of cob, girth of cob, grain rows/cob, grains/row, grains/cob and 1,000-grain weight, and growth parameters, viz. plant height, leaf area index (LAI), dry matter production (DMP), net assimilation rate (NAR) and crop growth rate (CGR). Highest LAI (3.6), DMP (1190.6 g/m2), NAR (6.4 g/m2/day), CGR (12.2 g/m2/day), maize grain yield (4.37 t/ha), MEY (9.69 t/ha), production effi- ciency (40.4 kg/ha/day), protein content (9.56%) and benefit: cost ratio (0.87) was observed for the treatment re- ceiving integrated nutrient-management practices through FYM. The results revealed that substitution of N through FYM up to 50% along with 50% RDF for maize followed by 100% RDF for wheat was found to be superior for increasing growth and yield parameters of QPM, protein content, higher income and enhances soil fertility un- der maizewheat cropping sequence in upland soils of Jharkhand.
Effect of conservation agriculture practices and irrigation scheduling on productivity and water-use efficiency of maize (Zea mays)wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system
Authors: SUNIL KUMAR  , S.S. PARIHAR  , MAN SINGH  , S.L. JAT  , V. SEHGAL  , PANCH RAM MIRJA  , SAROJ DEVI
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out during 201112 and 201213 at the research farm of IGAR-lndian Agricul- tural Research Institute, New Delhi, India, in sandy-loam soil, to study effect of conservation agriculture practices and irrigation scheduling on productivity and water-use effi0ienoy of maize (Zea mays L.)wheat [Triticum aestivum (L) emend. Fiori & Paol.l cropping system. The grain yield of maize was significantly higher under raised bed (RB) planting to the tune of 13.3% over conventional tillage (CT) during both the years. The increase in irriga- tion water-use efficiency (IWUE) of maize was 4046% and higher with RB and zero tillage (ZT) over CT respectively. Residue retention was more beneficial under RB than residue incorporation in CT. In wheat, 613% higher grain yield under RB was found in comparison to GT. The increase in IWI-JE of wheat was found higher in RB (3240%) compared to ZT (812%) over CT, as the grain yield was more with per unit of water applied under RB- The highest system productivity was recorded under RB (9.92 and 9.80 t/ha) followed by ZT (9.08 and 9.04 t/ ha) and the minimum under GT (8.63 and 8.84 t/ha during 201112 and 201213 respectively) during both the years. The yield of crops and system productivity improved owing to application of crop residue. The results also revealed that system productivity of maizewheat cropping system was significantly influenced because of ditfer- ent irrigation scheduling during both the years. Adoption of RB with crop residue along with 40% available soil- moisture depletion (ASMD) can be recommended for improving resource-use efficiency and productivity of maize wheat cropping system.
Sulphur fertilization and food qualityA review
Authors: RAJENDRA PRASAD  , Y.S. SHIVAY
Published: December 2023

About 42% of Indian soils are deficient in sulphur(s) and good yield responses to S fertilization are reported in cereals, pulses and oilseeds. However, little information is available in the country on the effect of S fertilization on quality of grain, seed or oil. Soil or fertilizer S is the main source of S for the plants, which in part being the main source of S-containing essential amino acid methionine and essential vitamin thiamine for the humans. In addi- tion, plants also synthesize a number of metabolites, such as alliin/ allicin, glucosinolates (GSLs) and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), which have great medicinal value. Studies on the effect of S fertilization on the content of essential amino acids and vitamins and some of the discussed metabolites in grain or seed of food crops will go a long way in enhancing their commercial value and in improving human health. Effects of S fertiliza- tion on the composition of fatty acids are also suggested. Development of such analytical facilities at agricultural institutes/ universities will also help in developing varieties with higher contents of desired S compounds.
Fertilizer band placement-cum-earthing machine effects on growth, productivity and profitability of maize (Zea mays) under varying nitrogen levels
Authors: AMIT BHATNAGAR  , ARUN KUMAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season (rabi) of 201112 and 201213 at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology (GBPUAT), Pantnagar, to study the effect of mechanized earthing, conventional earthing and nitrogen dose on productivity and profitability of maize (Zea mays L.). The experiment included 4 earthing treatments in main plots, viz. no earthing, manual earthing, inter-cultivation by cultivator and earthing by Pant fertilizer band placement-cum-earthing machine) and 4 levels of nitrogen, i.e. 90, 120, 150 and 180 kg/ha as subplots was arranged in splitplot design. The Pant fertilizer band placement cum earthing machine was designed and developed at the Department of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, College of Technol- ogy, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand. The machine was designed to perform continuous placement of fertilizer along the row crop, earthing-up and weed cutting operation simultaneously. Significantly higher productivity and monetary advantage was noted under earthing by Pant fertil- izer band placement-cum-earthing machine. The average increase in grain yield in mechanized earthing over no- earthing, manual earthing and inter-cultivation by cultivator was 24.5, 6.5 and 14.5%, respectively. The highest monetary advantage of 46.3 thousands/ha and benefit: cost ratio of 1.22 was obtained in mechanized earthing. Application of nitrogen @ 150 kg/ha was helpful in improving grain yield by 26.2% and net returns by 63.5% over 90 kg/ha.
Response of popcorn (Zea mays everta) varieties to varying plant densities and fertility levels
Authors: A.K. MEENA  , D. CHOUHAN  , D. SINGH  , V. NEPALIA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season of 2013 and 2014 at Instructional Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur, to ascertain suitable popcorn (Zea mays everta) variety, its fertility level and plant density. Treatments consisted 3 popcorn varieties, (VL Amber Popcorn, Bajaura Popcorn and Amber Popcorn), 3 fertility levels, viz. (90 + 30 and 110 + 40 kg N + P O /ha) and site-specific nutrient management (SSNM) based 2 5 fertility level, viz. (134 + 52 kg N + P O /ha) and 2 plant densities, viz. (66,666 and 83,333 plants/ha). The soil of 2 5 experimental site was having medium fertility status. Pooled results indicated that highest values of growth, yield- attributing parameters, grain (1.62 t/ha), stover yield (2.47 t/ha), net returns ( 103 65.21/ha and benefit: cost ratio 3.29) were obtained with VL Amber Popcorn. Application of SSNM-based fertility level improved the growth, yield components and consequently the grain (1.68 t/ha), stover (2.65 t/ha) over rest of the fertility levels and proved economically beneficial with the highest net return (103 68.03/ha) and B:C ratio (3.34). Significantly highest grain (1.55 t/ha), stover (2.39 t/ha), net returns (103 61.51/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (3.09) recorded under 83,333 plants/ha, being significantly higher than those with 66,666 plants/ha. At harvesting experimental soil with VL Amber Popcorn had significantly lower N and P status; however, K status of soil did not vary significantly. At
Effect of different sowing times and potash levels on insect pest populations, nutrient availability, uptake, yield and economics of soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: B.M. KAMBLE  , R.G. JADHAV
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during rainy (kharif) seasons of 201215 at Kasabe Digraj, Sangli, Maharashtra, to study the effect of different sowing times and potash levels on insect-pest populations, nutrient availability, uptake, yield and economics of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. The treatments consisted of 3 sow- ing times, viz first, second fortnight of June and first fortnight of July as a main treatments; and 0, 15, 30 and 45 K O kg/ha as subtreatments. The stem length tunnelling percentage, caused by stem fly and Spodoptera signifi- 2 cantly increased with the late sowing and ranged between 12.84 14.12 among the sowing times. The reduction in population of aphids, Spodoptera and stem tunneling was recorded in 45 K O kg/ha applied to soybean as com- 2 pared to the control. The effect of different sowing times was found non-significant on soil properties except elec- trical conductivity (EC). Different levels of potash given to soybean exerted significant influence on EC of soil, available nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and also potassium (K) in soil after crop harvest. The highest EC of soil and available K were recorded in treatment where potash was applied @ 45 kg/ha as compared to rest of the levels of this nutrient tried and at par with application of potash @ 30 kg/ha in respect of EC, available N, P and K content in soil. Significantly highest total uptake of N, P and K of soybean was observed in the first fortnight of June as compared to the first fortnight of July. The highest total uptake of N, P and K by soybean was recorded in treat- ment with potash applied @ 45 kg/ha as compared to the remaining levels of potash. Significantly highest grain yield (1.99 t/ha) of soybean was registered in plot sown during the first fortnight of June over all those sown there- after. Similarly, it also remained highest in treatment receiving potash @ 45 kg/ha. The sowing of the soybean crop during the first fortnight of June resulted in significantly higher net monetary returns of 15.49 103/ha with significantly highest benefit: cost (B:C) ratio of 1.58. The benefit: cost ratio of potash applied @ 30 and 45 kg/ha remained at par. Application of 5 tonnes FYM/ha with 50, 75 and 45 kg N, P O and K O kg/ha to soybean sown in 2 5 2 first fortnight of June is recommended as a revised fertilizer nutrient dose for medium deep black soils for minimiz- ing insect-pest populations, getting higher yield, monetary returns and maintaining soil fertility.
Response of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) to in-situ green manuring and nitrogen: phosphorus levels under rainfed condition
Authors: T.C. YOGESH  , S.M. HIREMATH  , S.I. HALIKATTI  , P.L. PATIL  , S.P. HALAGALIMATH  , G. SOMANAGOUDA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) and winter (rabi) seasons of 201112 and 201213 at Agricultural Research Station, Annigeri (Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka-Zone-3), Dharwad, Karnataka, re- sponse of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) to in-situ green manuring and NP levels under rainfed condition. The experiment consisted of 4 green-manure crops, viz. sunhemp (Crotalaria juncea L.), greengram [Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek], cowpea [Vigna unjuiculata (L.) Walp] and fallow, grown during the rainy season 4 fertility levels to succeeding safflower (0 : 0, 20 : 20, 30 : 30 and 40 : 40 N : P O kg/ha) during the winter (rabi) season. The ex- 2 5 periment was laid out in split-plot design with 3 replications. Among the green manures, incorporation cowpea and sunnhemp resulted in significantly higher safflower seed yield (1.25 and 1.15 t/ha), net returns( 22,319 and 19,551) and benefit: cost ratio (3.17 and 2.89), respectively, than greengram and fallow treatments. Among the fertility levels, higher fertility level (40 : 40 N : P O kg/ha) recorded significantly higher seed yield (1.32 t/ha), net 2 5 returns ( 23,833/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (3.25) than lower fertility levels. Among the interaction, significantly higher seed yield (1.57 and 1.42 t/ha), net returns ( 30,227 and 26,263/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (3.85 and 3.45), respectively, were recorded in cowpea and sunnhemp plots coupled with higher fertility level (40 : 40 N : P O kg/ha) than fallow-safflower system with higher fertility level. 2 5
Productivity, nutrient uptake and economics of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea)- toria (Brassica rapa subsp. dichatoma) cropping system as influenced by direct and residual effects of micronutrient and liming
Authors: SANTANU DAS  , ANUP DAS  , RAMKRUSHNA G.I.  , JAYANTA LAYEK  , SAMIK CHOWDHURY
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at the ICAR Research complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, during the rainy (kharif) and winter (rabi) seasons of 2013, to assess the direct and residual effect of micronutrients and liming on productivity, nutrient uptake and economics of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)toria [(8rasstca rapa subsp_ dichotoma (Roxb_) Hanelt)l cropping system. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design With 6 micronutrients (soil application) treatments, viZ_ control (no micronutrient), Zn @ 5 kg,'t-va, B @ kgi ha, Mo @ 0.5 kg/ha, Zn + Mo, Zn + B + Mo, and 2 levels of lime, viz. lime @ 500 kg/ha (application in furrow) and no lime. Sole application of Mo produced significantly higher yield ot groundnut (I _ 72 t/ha) compared to control (I .32 t/ha) and was at par with Zn + Mo (I _ 78 tma) and Zn + B + Mo (I .8 Vha)_ The maximum yield of succeeding toria was recorded with the residual effect of Zn + B + Mo (0.53 Vha) which remained at par with residual effect of B (0.52 Vha)_ Direct and residual effects ot liming increased the yield of groundnut and of succeeding toria by 13.3% and 21.9%, respectively, over no liming. Integrated applition of Zn + Mo and Zn + Mo recorded signifi- cantly highest N, P and K uptake of groundnut, whereas, residual effect of combined application of Zn + B + Mo recorded the highest N, P and K uptake of succeeding toria. Direct effect ot Mo in groundnut and residual effect of B in toria was more pronounced in enhancing productivity and nutrient uptake than other sole micro nutrient appli- cation. Direct and residual effect of Zn +B + Mo resulted in the highest groundnut-equivalent yield (2.18 t/ha) and net returns (e52.8,/ha) of the system which was at par With Zn + Mo (2.11 Vha and ?49.8/ha, respectively).
Yield components, yield and nutrient uptake pattern in maize (Zea mays) under varying irrigation and nitrogen levels
Authors: KAVITA KUMARI  , ANCHAL DASS  , S. SUDHISHRI  , RAMANJIT KAUR  , ALKA RANI
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season of 2015 on sandy-loam soil at ICARIndian Agricul- tural Research Institute, New Delhi, to study the effect of variable irrigation regimes and nitrogen rates on yield- contributing parameters, yield and nutrient uptake in maize (Zea mays L.) hybrid PEEHM 5. Irrigating maize at 25% depletion of available soil moisture (DASM) improved the grain and stover yield by 26.7 and 15.4%, and 40.9 and 82.5% over irrigation at 75% DASM and rainfed crop respectively. Nutrient (N, P, K) uptakes in grain were sig- nificantly greater with irrigation at 25% DASM than 75% DASM and rainfed crop. The highest grain yield (4.35 t/ ha) was obtained with 160 kg N/ha, while the stover yield was the highest with 240 kg N/ha. Uptake of N and K in grain increased significantly up to 160 kg N/ha; however, P uptake by grain increased significantly up to 120 kg N/ ha. Further, the combination of irrigation at 25% DASM and 200 kg N/ha resulted in the highest grain yield (5.56 t/ ha). Overall, maize crop may be irrigated at 25% DASM and supplied with 160 kg N/ha to obtain higher yield with major nutrient-enriched grains.
Yield and soil organic carbon pool in relation to soil fertility of sugarcane (Saccharum species hybrid complex) plant-ratoon system under integrated nutrient management
Authors: S.K. SINHA  , C.K. JHA  , VIPIN KUMAR  , S.S. PANDEY
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted for consecutive 6 years ( from 200809 to 201314) at Pusa, Bihar, to evalu- ate the integrated effect of organic and inorganic fertilizer on soil organic carbon pool, nutrient status and produc- tivity of sugarcane (BO 137) plantratoon system in Typic Ustochrept. The application of organics, viz. farmyard manure (FYM), bio-compost and bio-methanated distillery effluent (BMDE), along with inorganic fertilizer (100% NPK) in canes plant and its residual effect in ratoon significantly increased number of millable cane, cane yield and sugar yield over the control. The highest increment in yield in plant (24.95%) and ratoon (16.05%) was ob- served in plots treated with BMDE @ 150 m3/ha. The mean uptake of nutrients (N, P, K and S) and sugar yield varied and followed the similar trends as cane yield. The soil organic carbon pool, viz. carbon storage (180.9 235.2 kg/m2), water-soluble carbon (52.882.4 mg/g), CO evolution (48.570.1 mg/100 g soil) and soil microbial 2 biomass carbon (88.7121 mg/g) varied significantly due to different treatments. The highest amount of soil or- ganic pools were recorded in treatments receiving BMDE (150 m3/ha) followed by bio-compost (20 t/ha) and the lowest being in the control. Integrated use of organics with inorganic fertilizers facilitated the accumulation of or- ganic carbon which in turn had significant increment effect on the soil carbon pool and fertility status (N, P, K and S) of soil with reduction in bulk density beneficial for sustaining productivity of sugarcane plant - ratoon system. Thus, it is imperative that application of either 100% NPK recommended dose of fertilizer along with bio-compost 20 t/ha or 100% NP along with bio-methanated distillery effluent 150 m3/ha (supplying 100% K) improved the fertil- ity of soil which were reflected in increased productivity of sugarcane plant-ratoon system.
Productivity and energy use efficiency of wheat (Triticum aestivum) genotypes under different tillage options in rainfed ecosystem of middle Indo-Gangetic Plains
Authors: SANTOSH KUMAR  , S.K. DWIVEDI  , RAKESH KUMAR  , J.S. MISHRA  , S.K. SINGH  , VED PRAKASH  , K.K. RAO  , B.P. BHATT
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the winter seasons of 201314 and 201415 at Patna, Bihar, to as- sess the productivity of 5 promising genotypes K 9351, K 7903, HD 2967, DBW 14 and HI 1563 of wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.] under 2 tillage systems (no-till and conventional tillage). No-till (NT) resulted in grain yield on a par with conventional tillage (CT). Among the wheat genotypes, K 7903 gave signifi- cantly higher grain yield under both NT (3.4 t/ha) and CT (3.46 t/ha), followed by HD 2967 owing to better growth, yield attributes and physiological parameters than the other genotypes. Higher grain yields of K 7903 and HD 2967 under both tillage systems were directly correlated to their better leaf chlorophyll retention and maintenance of higher photosynthetic rate during grain-filling period. The maximum net income ( 19,687/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (1.71) were recorded with NT. Among wheat genotypes, K 7903 had significantly highest net income ( 26,759/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (1.92). Significantly higher energy ratio (8.43), energy profitability (6.0 MJ/kg) and energy-output efficiency (1015.6 MJ/ha/day) were recorded under NT than CT. Among the genotypes, K7903 was the most energy efficient than rest of the cultivars. Hence, growing of wheat genotypes K 7903 and HD 2967 under NT system proved better option in obtaining the maximum productivity, profitability and energy ef- ficiency in middle Indo-Gangetic Plains.
Effect of fertility levels and antitranspirants on productivity and profitability of wheat (Triticum aestivum) varieties
Authors: BALWAN  , L.R. YADAV  , H.P. VERMA  , RAJESH KUMAR  , S.S. YADAV
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner (Jaipur), Rajasthan, during 2 con- secutive winter (rabi) seasons 201314 and 201415, to study productivity and profitability of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) as affected by fertility and antitranpirants. The results revealed that variety Raj 3077 showed signifi- cantly higher values of growth parameter, viz. plant height, dry-matter accumulation, crop-growth rate (CGR) and relative growth rate (RGR), yield-attributing characters (number of effective tillers and number of grains/spike) and grain yield (4.12 t/ha) and straw yield (5.45 t/ha) than Raj 3765. The highest net returns of 66,220/ha with ben- efit: cost (B:C) ratio of 3.42 was obtained with Raj 3765 wheat. Application of 100% recommended dose of fertil- izer (RDF) resulted in significantly higher growth parameter (plant height, dry-matter accumulation, CGR and RGR), yield-attributing characters (number of effective tillers, number of grains/spike, ear length and 1,000-grain weight) and grain yield (4.88 t/ha) and straw yield (6.41 t/ha). The highest net returns of 81,290/ha with benefit: cost ratio of 3.84 were obtained application of 100% RDF. The foliar application of cycocel @ 1,000 ppm resulted in significantly higher growth parameter like dry-matter accumulation, CGR and RGR, yield-attributing characters like number of effective tillers, number of grains/spike and 1,000-seed weight and grain yield (4.04 t/ha) and straw yield (5.32 t/ha) in Raj 3765. However, plant height was significantly decreased owing to the antitranspirants. The application of cycocel @ 1,000 ppm gave the highest net returns of 64,960/ha with benefit: cost ratio of 3.43.
Impact of moisture conservation and nutrient-management practices on performance of maize (Zea mays) in Tarai Region of West Bengal
Authors: BINOY CHHETRI  , A.C. SINHA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during Pre Kharif seasons (February to May) of 2013 and 2014 at the In- structional Farm, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Coochbehar, West Bengal to evaluate the growth, yield and economics of maize (Zea mays L.) under moisture conservation and nutrient-management practices. Among the moisture-conservation practices, irrigation resulted in the highest yield attributes such as cob length, cob girth, 100-grain weight, cob/plant, grain/cob, rows/cob and grain weight/cob, leading to the highest grain yield (4.35 t/ha), stover yield (12.0 t/ha), harvest index (26.4%), water-use efficiency (0.11 kg/ha/mm), net returns (30.1 103 /ha) and benefit: cost ratio (1.19). Application of irrigation significantly increased the plant height (218 cm at harvesting), leaf-area index [4.41 at 75 days after sowing (DAS)], dry-matter accumulation (1,203 g/m2 at harvest- ing), crop-growth rate (20.2 g/g/m2 at 6175 DAS), nitrogen (89.9 kg/ha), phosphorus (54.3 kg/ha) and potassium (104.1 kg/ha) uptake. Among the nutrient management practices, the highest plant height (216 cm at harvesting), leaf-area index (4.26 at 75 DAS), dry-matter accumulation (1,167 g/m2 at harvest), crop-growth rate (19.5 g/g/m2 at 6175 DAS), grain yield (4.21 t/ha), stover yield (11.7 t/ha), harvest index (26.3%), nitrogen (90.3 kg/ha), phos- phorus (51.5 kg/ha), potassium (99.4 kg/ha) uptake, net returns (25.8 103 /ha) and water-use efficiency (0.10 kg/ha-mm) were recorded under treatment receiving 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) + phosphate- solubilizing bacteria (PSB) + Azotobacter + vermicompost @ 5.0 t/ha but the highest benefit: cost ratio (0.98) was recorded under 100% RDF + PSB + Azotobacter (N ). Our result showed that maize grown with irrigation and sup- 2 plied with 75% RDF + PSB + Azotobacter + vermicompost @ 5.0 t/ha (N ) proved the best for obtaining overall 3 gain on a sustainable basis.
Energy saving and profitability of rice (Oryza sativa) under mechanized and conventional system of rice intensification
Authors: T.M. SUDHAKARA  , A. SRINVAS  , R.M. KUMAR  , T. RAM PRAKASH  , G.A. RAJANNA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy seasons of 2013 and 2014 at Hyderabad, Telangana, to evaluate the effect of mechanized and conventional system of rice (Oryza sativa L.) intensification. From the 2 years data, significantly higher gross energy output, net energy, energy-use efficiency, energy productivity and en- ergy intensity were recorded with system of rice intensification (SRI) over mechanized system of rice intensifica- tion (MSRI). Energy-use efficiency, energy productivity and energy intensity recorded were significantly higher with irrigation at 3 days after disappearance of pounded water (DADPW) and these were at par with saturation treatment. Nitrogen application based on leaf colour chart (LCC) recorded higher gross energy output, net energy, energy-use efficiency, energy productivity and energy intensity in economic terms as compared to other nitrogen management practices. MSRI and SRI performed equally better with respect to benefit: cost ratio. Considerably higher gross and net returns were obtained with SRI as compared to MSRI. The labour saving was 2125% higher with MSRI than SRI. Irrigation at 3 DADPW recorded significantly higher net returns and benefit: cost ratio, which was comparable with saturation treatment. Gross returns, net returns and benefit-cost ratio, were significantly higher with nitrogen application based on LCC, except soil test crop response based nitrogen application.
Alleviation of weed stress in wheat (Triticum aestivum) through herbicides and their combinations
Authors: JAGDISH CHOUDHARY  , V. NEPALIA  , HANSRAM MALI  , H.K. SUMERIA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) seasons of 201213 and 201314 at Udaipur (Rajasthan), to study the effect of 12 different herbicide combinations to control complex weed flora in wheat (Triti- cum aestivum L.) crop. Pooled data of 2 years experimentation indicated that the application of various herbicide combinations significantly reduced density and biomass of complex weed flora. The yield attributes, viz. plant height, effective tillers, days to heading; days to maturity and 1,000-seed weight were significantly influenced by application of various herbicide combinations. The application of herbicides increased the yield, harvest index and monetary income of wheat crop compared to weedy check, although maximum grain yield was recorded under weed free plots. Amongst the herbicides, application of sulfosulfuron + metsulfuron @ 30 + 2 g a.i./ha rsulted in higher number of effective tillers (485.8/m2), the maximum grain yield (5.29 t/ha), harvest index (37.9%), net re- turns ( 79,480/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (3.06), which was superior to rest of the treatments, as the same treat- ment caused significant reduction in weed density (6.65/m2) and weed biomass (6.24 g/m2). Two-year study indi- cates that application of a ready-mixed herbicide (sulfosulfuron + metsulfuron) @ 32 g a.i/ha was best for weed- control, higher yield and net returns from wheat in southern plain zone of Rajasthan.
Influence of moisture-management practices on productivity, profitability and energy dynamics of rainfed maize (Zea mays) in semi-arid sub-tropical climate
Authors: PRAVEEN JAKHAR  , K.S. RANA  , ANCHAL DASS  , ANIL K. CHOUDHARY  , MUKESH CHOUDHARY
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2014 and 2015, to study the impact of moisture-conservation techniques on growth, pro- ductivity and profitability of maize (Zea mays L.). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 3 replications in a fixed lay-out. The treatments consisted of 4 moisture-conservation practices, viz. ridge and furrow (RF), RF + crop residue (CR) @ 4 t/ha, RF + CR @ 2 t/ha + VAM and flat sowing (FS). Among different moisture conservation techniques, RF with 4 t/ha CR recorded significant effect on growth parameters, viz. plant height, dry-matter accumulation (DMA) and leaf-area index (LAI) of maize in comparison to non-residue plots and FS. Values of canopy temperature depression (CTD) were significantly influenced by treatments 30 and 60 days after sowing (DAS), but remained unaffected at 90 DAS. SPAD values at 30, 60 and 90 DAS differed significantly at all stages and showed normal curve pattern with maximum values at 60 DAS. The treatment crop residue @ 4 t/ha in RF system produced numerically higher grain and stover yields of 3.43 and 9.51 t/ha respectively. Maize planted under RF with 4 t/ha CR exhibited significantly higher water-use efficiency (WUE) of 12.3 kg/ha-mm, followed by RF + CR 2 t/ha + VAM (10.9 kg/ha-mm) as compared to FS (8.45 kg/ha-mm) maximum net returns were obtained under RF + CR 4 t/ha (35.8 103 /ha) and the least under FS (22.7 103 /ha). Residue-based treatment, RF + CR 4 t/ha resulted in benefit: cost ratio of maximum value (1.39) maximum energy intensiveness (2.32 MJ/ ) and specific energy (17.57 MJ/kg) were also obtained for treatment RF + CR 4 t/ha.
Efficiency of herbicides in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) under hot arid conditions of Rajasthan
Authors: S.P. SINGH  , R.S. YADAV  , S.L. GODARA  , AMIT KUMAWAT
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy seasons of 2014 and 2015 at A.R.S. Bikaner, Rajasthan to test the efficiency of different weed-control measures in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). The experiment com- prising 14 weed-control treatments of 1.0 kg pendimethalin (PPI), 1.0 kg pendimethalin (PE), 800 g imazethapyr + pendimethalin (PE) (2 + 30% Ready mix), 900 g imazethapyr + pendamethalin (PE) (2 + 30% Ready mix), 1,000 g imazethapyr + pendamethalin (PE) (2 + 30% Ready mix), 50 g imazethapyr (34 leaf stage), 70 g imazethapyr (34 leaf stage), 60 g imazethapyr + imazemox (Ready mix at 34 leaf stage), 70 g imazethapyr + imazemox (Ready mix at 34 leaf stage), 40 g oxyfluorfen (34 leaf stage), 50 g fenoxaprop p-ethyl (34 leaf stage), 62 g propaquizafop (34 leaf stage), 2 hand-weedings and weedy check in randomized block design (RBD) with 3 rep- lications. 2 hand-weedings were found most effective in the controlling weeds in groundnut and recorded the low- est weed count and weed dry matter of both broad-leaf and grassy weeds. Among the different herbicides, appli- cation of imazethapyr + pendamethalin 1,000 g resulted in the lowest weed count and weed dry matter of both broad-leaf and grassy weeds as well as significantly highest yield attributes and yield, viz. dry-matter accumula- tion, pods/plant, pod, haulm and biological yield/ha in groundnut over all the other herbicidal treatments. The maximum net returns of 97.2 103 /ha and benefit: cost ratio (2.41) were recorded under 2 hand-weeding treat- ment. Among the different herbicides, application of imazethapyr + pendamethalin 1,000 g resulted in higher net returns of 88.1 103 /ha and benefit: cost ratio (2.29).
Productivity and economics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) and maize (Zea mays) as influenced by nutrient management practices in winter maize based cropping system
Authors: O.V.S. THENUA  , SUDHIR KUMAR  , VIVEK RAJ  , S.P. SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during winter (rabi) seasons of 200910 and 201011 to find out the effect of various nutrient management practices on productivity and economics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) and maize (Zea mays L.) grown as a sole crop and as an intercrop in winter maize based intercropping system. The highest biological yield, grain yield, haulm yield and harvest index of fenugreek were recorded with the com- bined application of nutrients through organic (50%) and inorganic (50%) sources, followed by recommended dose of nutrients (RDF) through organic sources and recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) through inorganic sources. Application of Azotobacter + Azospirillum + PSB for maize and Rhizobium + PSB for fenugreek too re- corded higher values of biological yield, grain yield, haulm yield and harvest index of fenugreek as compared to control. The gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio were significantly higher with maize + fenugreek sown in 1:1 ratio among the cropping systems, followed by the sole maize. Among the nutrient management practices, the highest gross returns, net returns and benefit: cost ratio were observed with the combined application of nutrients through organic (50%) and inorganic (50%) sources.