Search

The experiment was conducted during winter (rabi) seasons of 2021–22 and 2022–23 at ICAR-Directorate of Rapeseed Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan to assess the effect of nano urea (NU) spray in conjunction with different rates of soil applied fertilizer (conventional urea) N on growth, yield, nutrient content and uptake of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. and Coss.] in a calcareous soil of arid and semi-arid region. The experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) and replicated thrice The treatment combinations consisted of basal applications of fertilizers and foliar spray (FS) of nano urea (NU) either once 30 days after sowing (DAS) or twice 30 and 50–55 DAS. The field experiment comprised of 9 treatments, viz. Control; Recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF); RDN25 + NU-1FS; RDN25 + NU-2FS; RDN50 + NU-1FS; RDN50 + NU-2FS; RDN100 + NU-1FS; RDN75 + NU-1FS; and RDN75 + NU-2FS. Results revealed that treatment RDN100 + NU-1FS (single sprays of nano urea together with the 100% prescribed dose of N) produced the maximum values of 24.30 and 66.62 q/ha yield of seed and stover, respectively. However, RDN75 + NU-2FS produced statistically comparable yield to the treatment RDN100 + NU-1FS. By applying nano urea, the recommended N dose can be reduced up to 25% without compromising yield. One FS of NU with RDN100 registered highest plant height, main shoot length, main shoot siliquae number, total siliquae number/plant and the number of secondary branches of the plant, and proved superior over other treatments. Further, results exhibited that RDN100 + NU-1FS increased N, P, and K uptake values to 66.74, 10.42, and 17.85 kg/ha in seed and 44.23, 9.48, and 78.98 kg/ha in stover. Overall, it has been determined that the most efficient way to increase the yield, concentration, and uptake of N, P, and K in Indian mustard is to apply nano urea foliar at 30 and 60 DAS in conjunction with RDF.

The present study was carried out during 2019–20 and 2020–21 at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand to assess the combined effects of deficit irrigation and mulching on a 5-year- old VNR Bihi guava (Psidium guajava L.) orchard. The experiment consisted of three irrigation regimes, viz. deficit irrigation at 50% ETc (DI50); deficit irrigation at 75% ETc (DI75); and full irrigation at 100% ETc (FI100); and four mulching treatments, viz. silver-black mulch (MSB); black mulch (MB); organic mulch (MOM); and without mulch (MWM) laid out in a factorial randomised block design (F-RBD) with three replications. Results showed that fruit number and yield/tree were recorded highest in trees irrigated with DI75 and mulched with silver-black mulch. Under treatment DI50 fruit had the highest concentration of soluble solids, with Brix levels of 12.35°B and 12.78 °B during the years 2019–20 and 2020–21, respectively. Total sugars content was significantly increased under DI50 by 7.73 and 7.36%, respectively as compared to FI100 during both the years of experimentation. The biochemical properties such as total phenolics, total flavonoids and antioxidant (DPPH) activity also increased as irrigation regimes decreased from FI100 to DI50. The total phenolic and flavonoids content were improved by 19.19 and 33.44%, respectively under DI50 when compared to FI100. Significant differences among different mulch treatments with respect to quality parameters were also observed except DPPH activity. Silver-black mulch followed by black mulch resulted in higher soluble solids content, total sugars, ascorbic acid, total phenolic content, total flavonoids and DPPH activity. These findings demonstrate the positive effect of water deficit practice on bioactive compounds and the appropriateness of deficit irrigation and mulching as irrigation management strategies in the fruit orchards that improve fruit commercial value and conserve water.

An experiment was conducted out during winter (rabi) seasons of 2021–22 and 2022–23 at the Research Farm of Maharana Pratap Univesity of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan to study the effect of nutrient management practices and sowing methods on the development and production of organic wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The experiment was conducted in a split plot design (SPD) with 4 replications. The experiment consisted of 3 sowing methods in main plots, viz. Flat row sowing; FIRB (Furrow Irrigated Raised Bed) sowing; and zero tillage sowing and 8 nutrient management practices, viz. 100% RDN through FYM as basal; RDN through FYM as basal + 50% RDN with first irrigation; 75% RDN through FYM as basal + 25% RDN with first irrigation; 50% RDN through FYM as basal + 25% RDN with first irrigation + 25% RDN with second irrigation; 100% RDN through FYM as basal + jeevamrit @500 litre/ha at sowing and first irrigation + panchagavya @5% at booting stage; 50% RDN through FYM as basal + 50% RDN with first irrigation + jeevamrit @500 litre/ha at sowing and first irrigation + panchagavya @5% at booting stage; 75% RDN through FYM as basal + 25% RDN with first irrigation + jeevamrit @500 litre/ha at sowing and first irrigation + panchagavya @5% at booting stage; 50% RDN through FYM as basal + 25% RDN with first irrigation + 25% RDN with second irrigation + jeevamrit @500 litre/ha at sowing and first irrigation + panchagavya @5% at booting stage in sub plots. The experimental results revealed that the FIRB sowing method recorded significantly higher plant height at 45 DAS (42.56 and 42.66 cm) during both the years of study over zero tillage sowing method and remain at par with flat row sowing method, respectively. The same sowing method resulted into statistically higher grain yield (42.88 and 43.87 q/ha) and biological yield (106.89 and 108.48 q/ha) compared to flat row sowing and zero tillage sowing methods during both the years, respectively. During the second year of study (2023) significantly highest crop growth rate (CGR) (1.1240 g/m2/day) and relative growth rate (RGR) (0.0083 g/g/day) between 90 DAS to harvest were recorded with flat row sowing over zero tillage sowing and remain at par with FIRB sowing method. Regarding the nutrient management practices the highest plant height (43.43 and 44.51 cm), grain yield (44.52 and 44.84 q/ha) and biological yield (110.35 and 110.58 q/ha) were recorded with 75% RDN through FYM as basal + 25% RDN with first irrigation + jeevamrit @500 litre/ha at sowing and first irrigation + panchagavya @5% at booting stage.

An experiment was conducted during 2020–21 and 2021–22 at Horticulture farm of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana to study the effect of different plant nutrients and organic substances on growth, flowering, quality and yield attributes of the apple (Malus × domestica Borkh) cultivar Anna. The experiment consists of 19 treatments laid out in a randomized block design. Among the various treatments used, T12 (2.0% nitrogen plus 15% cow urine) was found superior for the growth characteristics of plants, viz. plant height (2.87 m) and plant spread (3.02 m). However, the number of days taken for flowering (70.83), fruit set (19.72 %), fruit weight (177.68 g), fruit diameter (6.40 cm), yield (11.25 kg/plant), TSS (11.45 °Brix), acidity (0.51%), total sugars (10.01%), total phenol (70.72 mg GAE/g), total anthocyanin (19.11 mg/100 g) and total carbohydrate (155.55 mg/g) content were significantly influenced by treatment T6 (400 ppm Boron + 4% Humic acid) during both the years.

The present study was carried out during 2019–20 and 2020–21 at the research farm of ICAR-Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan to scale out the conservation agriculture (CA) practices in Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern.]-based cropping systems for enhancing production and farm profitability. Experiment was conducted in the split-plot design (SPD) after randomization, and replicated three times in the permanent plots. The treatment comprised of 3-tillage and crop residue re-cycling [permanent beds with residue (PB+R); zero tillage with residue (ZT+R); and conventional tillage without residue (CT-R)] in main-plots; and 6-oilseed brassica-based cropping systems [Fallow-mustard (F-M); Cluster bean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.]-mustard (CB-M); Greengram [Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek-mustard (GG-M); Maize (Zea mays L.)-mustard (Mz-M); Pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]-mustard (PM-M); and Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)-mustard (S-M)] in sub-plots. The mean mustard seed yield increased 28 and 11% under permanent beds with residue (PB+R) and zero tillage with residue (ZT+R) compared to conventional tillage without residue (CT-R), respectively. The mean seed yield of kharif crops also increased by 37.1 and 31.7% in the PB+R and ZT+R compared to CT-R, respectively. The maize-mustard (Mz-M) cropping system recorded significantly higher yield of mustard across the years followed by greengram-mustard (GG-M) cropping system. The mean mustard equivalent yield (MEY) increased by 33.4 and 24.2% in PB+R and ZT+R over the CT-R, respectively. The total system grain yield (TSGY) also increased by 29.6 and 14.7% in the PB+R and ZT+R over the CT-R, respectively. Among the cropping systems, GG-M followed by Mz-M system recorded highest MEY and TSGY in both the years. The Mz-M cropping system under PB+R recorded maximum net returns and B:C ratio which was higher by 40.7 and 41.1 compared to traditional F-M cropping system under CT-R, respectively. Thus, CA-based Mz-M/GG-M system should be out scaled in the traditional rainfed mustard based production system to improve the farm production and income on holistic basis to increase the edible oil production in the country.

The present study was carried out during winter (rabi) seasons of 2020–21 and 2021–22 at Sri Karan Narendra College of Agriculture, Jobner, Jaipur, Rajasthan to evaluate the impact of nitrogen management (organic and inorganic sources), biofertilizer and foliar spraying of nano-urea on yield, quality and storage attributes of garlic (Allium sativum L.). The experiment consisted of 3 levels of organic and inorganic fertilization, 2 levels of bio-fertilizers in main plot, and 4 levels of nano-urea arranged in split plot design (SPD) in sub plot. The results showed that yield, quality and storage attributes of garlic, viz. number of cloves/bulb (16.46%), clove length and girth, average weight of clove (1.56 gm), nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in bulb (1.10, 0.31 and 0.51%), physiological loss in weight, shelf-life of bulbs and rooting percentage of bulbs were significantly enhanced by 100% recommended dose of nitrogen through inorganic fertilizers and bio-fertilizer in main plot. In sub plot, the foliar spray of nano-urea @75 ml/ha recorded highest number of cloves per bulb (16.26%), clove length and girth (2.86 and 1.07 cm), average weight of clove (1.55 gm), nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in bulb (1.09, 0.31 and 0.51%), shelf-life of bulbs and rooting percentage of bulbs. Therefore, this study concluded that the nitrogen management and nano-urea in garlic crop gives better yield, quality and storage attributes, and can be opted in semi-arid climatic conditions.

A study was carried out during the winter (rabi) seasons of 2020–21 and 2021–22 at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi to assess the effects of diverse tillage and nitrogen management scenarios on growth, development, and yield of a conservation agriculture (CA)-based wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) crop grown in sequence with maize (Zea mays L.). Experiment was conducted in split plot design (SPD) comprised of 3 different tillage practices in main plots [Conventional tillage + residue (CT); Zero tillage + residue (ZT); and Permanent beds + residue (PB)] and 5 nitrogen (N) options in sub plots [Control (zero nitrogen); Recommended dose of N-RDN @150 kg N/ha (50 kg N/ha Basal + 2-equal splits at 37 days after sowing (DAS) and 84 DAS); Green Seeker (GS) based application of N @148 kg N/ha (GS); Urea super granules applied as basal @75 kg N/ha + GS based N application (USG); and Slow release fertilizer as 100% basal application @150 kg N/ha (SRF)] with 3-replications. The findings revealed that in both the seasons, both tillage and nitrogen management approaches significantly affected wheat growth, yield characteristics, and overall yield, whereas the time to anthesis and physiological maturity, and test weight remained unaffected. Within the spectrum of tillage practices, leaf area index (LAI) and yield attributes exhibited the trend PB>ZT>CT. PB recorded the highest grain yield (5159 kg/ha), followed by ZT (4916 kg/ha) and the lowest grain yield was observed with CT (4578 kg/ha). The wheat grain yields were 12.7% and 7.4% higher in PB and ZT, respectively, over to CT. Among nitrogen management options, the grain yield exhibited the pattern USG>N150>SRF>GS>N0. This study emphasizes that adopting conservation agriculture (CA) practices, particularly CA-based permanent beds using urea super granules (USG) for nitrogen management can improve wheat growth and yield.

In Afghanistan the information on the performance of sorghum crop to applied nitrogen (N) fertilizer coupled with water management are still scarce. Therefore, a field study was carried out during rainy (kharif) season of 2020 at the research farm of Afghanistan National Agricultural Science and Technology University, Kandahar, Afghanistan. Kandahar in collaboration with ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi evaluated the effect of different irrigation scheduling and nitrogen management options on growth, yield and economics of sorghum. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with 3 replications consisting of 3 irrigation schedules in main-plots and 4-N rates in sub-plots. Growth parameters of sorghum, viz. plant height, dry matter accumulation, crop growth rate and leaf area index were significantly increased by N120 and N80 compared to N0 plots. Significantly superior yields, viz. seed yield (1546 and 1476 kg/ha), straw yield (5546 and 5467 kg/ha), biological yield (7092 and 6943 kg/ha) and harvest index (21.3 and 21.8%) were observed with N120 and N80 plots, respectively. The N120 and N80 plots remained at par with each other with respect to net B:C ratio (1.87). However, the highest production efficiency (14.7 kg biomass/day) and monetary efficiency (773.90 AFN/day) was obtained with N120 plots. Therefore, the findings of present study suggest that N application @80 kg/ha could be a viable option to attain higher productivity, farm profitability and input-use efficiency irrespective of 2 or 3 irrigations in sorghum in Kandahar region of Afghanistan.

The present study was carried out at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur, Bihar during 2021–2023 to focus on examining alterations in SOC pools resulting from conservation agriculture (CA) practices in R-W system in the eastern IGP, following the collection of soil samples from a long-term trial that was initiated in rainy (kharif) season 2006. The trial included eight combinations, namely: conventional tilled rice (Oryza sativa L.) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) (CTR-CTW); CT rice and zero till wheat (CTR-ZTW); direct seeded rice (DSR) and wheat on permanent raised beds (PBDSR-PBW); ZTDSR and CT Wheat (ZTDSR-CTW); ZTDSR and ZT wheat without residue (ZTDSR-ZTW -R); ZTDSR-ZT wheat with residue (ZTDSR-ZTW +R); unpuddled transplanted rice- ZTW (UpTR-ZTW) and ZTDSR-sesbania brown manure-ZTW (ZTDSR-S-ZTW). Results revealed that implementing zero tillage (ZT) combined with residue retention in rice and wheat cultivation led to enhanced levels of soil organic carbon (SOC) across all four fractions, namely very labile (CVL), labile (CL), less labile (CLL), and non-labile (CNL), in comparison to the continuous and rotational tillage practices. The tillage and residue management options significantly affected the lability index (LI) and C pool index (CPI), with zero-tillage and residue retention leading to lower LI and higher CPI values. The management practices significantly affected the C management index (CMI), with zero-tillage and residue retention showing the highest CMI values. Findings showed the potential of CA practices for enhancing soil C quality as well as C sequestration in soil of the Eastern IGP of India.

The conventional non-basmati rice (Oryza sativa L.) is neither economical nor sustainable in IGP. Therefore, an on-farm study was carried out at the farmer’s field in Karnal district of Haryana to find out alternative by diversified crops having legume (summer mungbean) with the best tillage and residue management practices. The intensification through conservation agriculture (CA)-based crop management within the RW system (CTR–ZTWMb and DSR– ZTWMb) and beyond with diversification by maize (ZTMWMb and ZTMMuMb) gave statistically on par yield to conventional non-basmati rice (CTRW). Compared to CTRW, total water use was reduced by 0.8 and 14.8% in CTR– ZTWMb and DSR–ZTWMb, respectively. The total water use was significantly reduced by 53.9 to 60.8% with maize and soybean (ZTMWMb, ZTMMuMb, and ZTSWMb) over DSR–ZTWMb and CTRW. The net returns increased by ₹3.7–6.5 × 103/ha in CTR–ZTWMb and DSR–ZTWMb over the CTRW. In diversified systems, net returns increased by ₹10–16.5 × 103/ha with maize systems compared to three rice production scenarios. Similarly, in soybean, net returns enhanced by ₹4.6 × 103/ha over the CTRW systems. Moreover, there was a significant decrease in global warming potential (GWP) by 53.4–69.1, 53.3–69.0 and 46.9–64.8% was observed under ZTMWMb, ZTMMuMb and ZTSWMb, respectively over the three RW system treatments. These results demonstrate that crop diversification with the inclusion of maize and soybean with CA may be opted to improve crop and water productivity and farmer's income replacing traditional rainy (kharif ) season non-basmati rice in Western Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP).

Optimization of nitrogen (N) fertilization is vital for minimizing losses and realizing the yield potential of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern.] under different tillage and residue management options. Hence, a field experiment was conducted during winter (rabi) seasons of 2021–22 and 2022–23 at research farm of ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi to study the effect of nitrogen placement methods under conservation agriculture (CA) for augmenting crop growth, productivity and profitability of Indian mustard. Experiment consisted a split-plot design with three crop establishment practices (CEP) [ZT-R, Zero tillage without residue retention; ZT+R, Zero tillage with residue; CT, Conventional tillage] in main-plots and nitrogen placement methods (NPM) [control (no N); recommended dose of N (RDN)-conventional; RDN-SSB (subsurface band placement of second N split along the crop rows); 80% RDN-SSB] in sub-plots. The ZT+R enhanced crop growth rate by 6.0–36.1% over CT at various crop stages. The ZT+R reported higher soil moisture by 9–20.7% over CT and ZT-R. Significantly superior seed yield (14.3–28.5%), net return (20.5–53.9%) and benefit cost ratio (21.8–79.0%) was obtained with ZT+R over ZT-R and CT while RDN-SSB recorded 7.3–9.1% higher seed yield over other treatments. Statistically at par results were obtained under RDN-conventional and 80% RDN-SSB for yield attributing characters and seed yield delineating that a saving of 20% N in mustard production is possible without compromising yield and this can reduce environmental footprint as well. Therefore, this study concluded that the residue retention under ZT along with subsurface N placement in mustard crop gives better vegetative growth, yield attributes and yield with a potential to save 20% N and can be opted in semi-arid Indo-Gangetic plains and similar agro-ecologies.

Application of water directly to the root zone through micro-irrigation system can reduce the water, fertilizer and labour requirements by improving their availability and use-efficiency. An experiment was conducted during winter (rabi) seasons of 2019–20 and 2020–21 at the research farm of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Regional Research Station, Bawal, Haryana to study the relative performance of drip irrigation in comparison to conventional methods of irrigation in Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern.]. The experiment consisted 7 treatments, viz. two irrigations through flooding (as per state recommendation) at flowering and siliqua formation stage; two irrigations through sprinkler at flowering and siliqua formation stage; three irrigations through sprinkler at flowering, siliqua formation and seed development stage; and 6, 8, 10 and 12 split irrigations were applied from 30 days after sowing (DAS) through drip at 12, 9, 7 and 6 days interval, respectively. Volume of irrigation water under each treatment was same as under recommended practice of two flood irrigations (120 mm). Irrigation applied through drip at 6 days interval in 12 splits and at 7 days interval in 10 splits produced statistically similar seed yield to each other (22.51 and 21.94 q/ha, respectively) and significantly higher than recommended irrigation practice (18.92 q/ha) and sprinkler method of irrigation (18.62 and 19.32 q/ha) during 2019–20. The irrigation through drip in 12 splits (10 mm each) at an interval of 6 days between 30 to100 days after sowing also recorded the highest irrigation water-use efficiency (IWUE) (188 and 181 kg/ha-cm in 2019–20 and 2020–21, respectively). Based on these findings, it can be suggested to apply irrigation in Indian mustard through drip in 12 splits (10 mm depth each) at an interval of 6 days between 30 to100 DAS to get higher yield and water use efficiency.

A field experiment was conducted during rainy (kharif) seasons of 2020 and 2021 at research farm of Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agriculture University, Bikaner, Rajasthan to study the effect of planting methods, Mycorrhiza and zinc fertilization on growth and productivity of pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L) R.Br.] in hot arid region. The experiment comprised 24 treatments combination having 3 planting methods (S1, flat bed; S2, ridge and furrow; S3, pit technique) and two Mycorrhiza level (M0, control; M1, 8 kg/ha Mycorrhiza basal) in main plot and 4 zinc fertilization practices (Z0, control; Z1, 0.5% ZnSO4 two foliar spray; Z2, zinc sulphate @10 kg/ha basal + 0.5% foliar spray and Z3, zinc sulphate @20 kg/ha basal) in sub plots were laid out in split-plot design and replicated thrice. It may be inferred that in pearl millet pit planting technique (S3), Mycorrhiza (M1) + fertilized with zinc sulphate (Z2) practice gave significantly higher growth parameters, viz. plant stand (141.20 thousand/ha), plant height (171.1 cm), dry matter accumulation, crop growth rate, relative growth rate, chlorophyll content (4.3 mg/g), root dry weight (9.8 g/plant) and number of green leaves/plant (13.9 no./plant), quality parameters, viz. protein content (12.5%) and protein yield (384 kg/ha) in grain, ash (12.1%) and fibre content (44.3%) in stover and grain yield (3.1 t/ha) as compared to all other treatment combinations on pooled basis. The findings emphasize the potential of this technique for enhancing pearl millet productivity and quality in hot arid regions.

A study was carried out during 2020–21 and 2021–22 at the research farm of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana to investigate efficacy of different fertilizers on yield, yield attributing characters and biochemical parameter on pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa. Different doses of RDF 50%, 75%, 100% FYM, biofertilizers were evaluated against control by following randomized complete block design, 22 treatments with 3 replications. The results revealed that yield parameters, viz. fruit weight (260.83 g), aril weight (168.00 g), rind weight (92.83g), rind thickness (3.63 mm), fruit length (6.64 cm) and fruit diameter width (4.82 cm), number of fruits per tree (105.61), yield (27.55 kg/tree), fruit firmness (28.76 lb/inch2), fruit cracking (26.17%), fruit set (42.30%), fruit retention (76.19%), fruit drop (23.81%); and biochemical parameters, viz. juice content (35.23%), TSS (14.15 °Brix), acidity (0.82%) and TSS acid ratio (17.37), total sugar (12.06%), reducing sugar (9.86%), non- reducing sugar (2.31%), sugar: acid ratio (41.00) ascorbic acid (16.79 mg/100 g) and anthocyanin content (4.94 mg/100 g) were significantly affected by different organic amendments and biofertilizers treatment against control. Treatment T21-100% RDF + FYM + Azotobacter + PSB proved most effective in enhancing yield attributing characters and biochemical parameters of pomegranate. This treatment gave best result by increasing the nutritional status of the plant through the beneficial effects of different fertilizers.

Despite many studies reporting conservation agriculture (CA) impacts on soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration, the impacts of long-term permanent bed planting under CA on SOC sequestration are rarely reported. Hence, this study assessed the permanent bed planted CA impacts on SOC sequestration rates in 0–30 and 30–60 cm soil depths under a cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)-wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) system in the Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP). The treatments comprised diverse combinations of tillage and residue retention (R), viz. conventional tillage (CT), narrow bed, narrow bed + R, broad bed, broad bed + R, flat bed + R and flat bed. Results indicated that the total SOC stock was ~32, 31 and 29% higher in CA plots than in CT plots (farmers' practice), in 0–30 cm soil depth. The SOC sequestration rate (over CT plots) in the CA plots was ~0.76 Mg C/ha/yr. The broad bed + R, narrow bed + R and flat bed + R plots had appreciably high total SOC sequestration (~0.24 Mg C/ha/yr) compared to CT plots in deep soil layer (30–60 cm). The yield data (2-year mean basis) was recorded highest in the broad bed + R (3.48 tonnes/ha and 8.11 tonnes/ha for cotton and wheat, respectively) and flat bed + R (3.38 tonnes/ha and 8.46 tonnes/ha for cotton and wheat, respectively) treatments showing a positive impact of the adoption of long-term CA in the IGP. Thus, adopting raised beds with residue retention has great potential for higher carbon sequestration and improving yields and can be recommended for sustainable intensification of arable lands in the region.

This study evaluated the impact of contrasting tillage and nitrogen management options on the growth, yield attributes, and yield of maize (Zea mays L.) in a conservation agriculture (CA)-based maize-wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) system. The field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2020 and 2021 at the research farm of ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi. The experiment was conducted in a split plot design with three tillage practices [conventional tillage with residue (CT), zero tillage with residue (ZT) and permanent beds with residue (PB)] as main plot treatments and in sub-plots five nitrogen management options [Control (without N fertilization), recommended dose of N @150 kg N/ha, Green Seeker-GS based application of split applied N, N applied as basal through urea super granules-USG + GS based application and 100% basal application of slow release fertilizer (SRF) @150 kg N/ha] with three replications. Results showed that both tillage and nitrogen management options had a significant impact on maize growth, yield attributes, and yield in both seasons. However, time to anthesis and physiological maturity were not significantly affected. Yield attributes were highest in the permanent beds and zero tillage plots, with similar numbers of grains per cob (486.1 and 468.6). The highest leaf area index (LAI) at 60 DAP was observed in PB (5.79), followed by ZT(5.68) and the lowest was recorded in CT (5.25) plots. The highest grain yield (2-year mean basis) was recorded with permanent beds plots (5516 kg/ha), while the lowest was observed with conventional tillage (4931 kg/ha). Therefore, the study highlights the importance of CA practices for improving maize growth and yield, and suggests that farmers can achieve better results through the adoption of CA-based permanent beds and use of USG as nitrogen management option.

A field experiment was conducted at the Instructional farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur for two years (2017–18 and 2018–19) during the winter (rabi) season. The experiments were arranged in a randomized block design (RBD) manner with 3 replications. The results showed that, seed inoculation with biofertilizers (Azotobacter + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria + Potash mobilizing bacteria + Zinc solubilizing bacteria) improved physico-chemical properties of soil except bulk density, particle density, pH, EC and showed higher availability of nutrients over control plot. Whereas in case of vermicompost (VC), physical properties such as BD, PD, porosity, WHC and chemical properties like pH, EC, CEC, OC and available nutrients were found distinctly enhanced under 50% VC at sowing + 50% VC at tillering in post-harvest soil over control. However, 50% VC at sowing + 50% VC at tillering significantly reduced bulk density, particle density, pH and EC. Furthermore, both biofertilizers and split application of vermicompost also significantly improved the productivity of wheat. It is concluded that application of biofertilizers and vermicompost could reliably be used to improve soil physico-chemical properties of wheat cultivated soils.

Long-term (13 years) impact of organic and conventional farming on soil physical properties was evaluated under a rice (Oryza sativa L.) – wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cropping system in a sandy clay loam soil at New Delhi. The treatments included unfertilized control (T1), conventionally managed (T2) and five organic treatments (T3: FYM @ 10 t/ha to rice and wheat, T4: SGM for rice and LGLM for wheat, T5: SGM + BGA for rice and LGLM + Azotobacter for wheat, T6: SGM + FYM for rice and LGLM + FYM for wheat, and T7: SGM + FYM + BGA for rice and LGLM + FYM + Azotobacter for wheat). The application of organic amendments had positive influence on soil physical properties such as saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks), field capacity (FC) and permanent wilting point (PWP), plant-available water capacity (PAWC), water holding capacity (WHC), distribution of aggregate size fractions, bulk density (Db), and porosity in the 0-15 and 15-30 cm soil layer. A favourable effect of organic amendments was also found on soil strength (at depth 0-70 cm). Even, values related to these properties were significantly affected by the kinds of organic amendments. But, T1 and T2 had no improvement in soil physical properties over the organic ones. Value of Ks decreased with increase in soil depths. T7 and T3 were superior in Ks to other treatments for 0-15 and 15-30 cm soil depths. Volumetric moisture content at FC (θFC) and PWP (θWP) increased with addition of organic amendments and got varying response due to the kinds of organic amendments or their combinations. θFC and θWP were decreased substantially under T1 and T2, because of no addition of organic inputs. As a result of θFC and θWP, PAWC had also signified an improvement under the influence of different organic amendments over T1 and T2. Generally (for both depths), PAWC of T3, T6 and T7 were 17-26% more than T1, T2, T4 and T5. WHC of upper soil layer (0-15 cm) was greater for organic amended plots than plots devoid of organic inputs and lower values were recorded for 15-30 cm soil layer. WHC of T3, T7 and T6 was highest in comparison to plots amended only with (without FYM) green manure, BGA or Azotobacter as well as T1 and T2 for both depths (0-15 and 15-30 cm). A better soil aggregation was observed under organic amended plots for large and small macro-aggregates (LM - >2 and SM-0.25-2 mm) in both soil depths. Lowest value of Db with highest percentage of pore space was noted under T7 than other treatments in both soil layers. Soil strength was significantly lower in organic amended plots than T1 and T2. This study clearly indicated that application of organic inputs especially FYM, improved the soil physical properties, which resulted in better soil aggregation, porosity and soil moisture retention.

Present study was carried out during 2018–19 and 2019–20 at ICAR-Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan to evaluate the effect of nitrogen (N) and sulphur (S) nutrition on production efficiency, water productivity, and economics of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.] under irrigated conditions. The experiment was conducted in a split plot design with 5 nitrogen levels (0, 60, 80, 100 and 120 kg/ha) as the main plot treatment and 4 sulphur levels (0, 20, 40, and 60 kg/ha) as subplot treatment with 3 replications. Results revealed that the application of 120 kg N/ha recorded the highest plant height (205 cm), leaf area index (5.4), number of leaves/ plant (47.3), primary branches/plant (6.8), secondary branches/plant (18.9), SCMR (46.5), number of siliquae/plant (382), number of seeds/silique (18), stem girth (6.65 cm), test weight (5.79 g) and seed yield (3.04 t/ha). Among the different S levels, the maximum values of growth and physiological parameters, yield attributes and seed yield were recorded at 60 kg S/ha (2.71 t/ha). Similarly, production efficiency (22.1 kg/ha/day) and water productivity (1.53 kg seed/m3) were found higher than 120 kg N/ha and 60 kg S/ha. The highest net monetary returns and Benefit cost (B: C) ratio were recorded with 120 kg N/ha and 60 kg S/ha.Thus, the application of N and S may be revised to 120 and 60 kg/ha, respectively for Indian mustard in the irrigated semi-arid climates to achieve higher productivity, efficiency and profitability.

A field experiment was conducted during 2018–19 and 2019–20 at the research farm of ICAR-Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan to evaluate the effect of organic and inorganic nitrogen sources on yield, water productivity, system productivity and economics of maize (Zea mays L.)-mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern.] cropping system. The experiment was conducted in split-plot design with recommended levels of fertilizers (RDF)/FYM/biofertilizer/mustard straw/Jivamrat in main-plots and recommended doses of nitrogen (RDN) 100, 125 and 150% in sub-plots to maize and Indian mustard and replicated thrice. Application of RDF + FYM @2.5 t/ha + Azotobacter + mustard straw @2.5 t/ha recorded highest SCMR (41.2), leaf area index (4.42), number of siliqua/ plant (440.7), number of seeds/siliqua (18.4), test weight (5.83 g) and seed yield (3.36 t/ha) of mustard. Application of RDN 150% recorded highest physiological and yield attributes and seed yield (3.22 t/ha) of mustard. Results also showed the highest physiological and yield attributes and grain yield (3.73 t/ha) of maize with RDF+FYM @2.5 t/ ha+Azotobacter+mustard straw @2.5 t/ha. System productivity (4.84 t/ha) and water productivity (2.14 kg seed/m3) were found higher with RDF+FYM @2.5 t/ha +Azotobacter+mustard straw @2.5 t/ha and RDN 150%. The highest net monetary return 51715, 81040 and 132755 `/ha and B:C ratio 3.09, 3.22 and 3.15 were recorded for maize, mustard and system with RDF+FYM @2.5 t/ha+Azotobacter+mustard straw @2.5 t/ha and RDN 150%, respectively. Thus, integrated use of RDF+FYM @2.5 t/ha+Azotobacter+mustard straw @2.5 t/ha with RDN @150% improved maize–mustard system yield and profitability under semi-arid climates.

A field experiment was conducted in maize under medium-term conservation agriculture (CA) based maizewheat system at BISA-CIMMYT, Ladhowal, Punjab during kharif 2019 to assess the effect of CA+ practices (CA with sub-surface drip irrigation) with variable N doses on maize. The CA+ treatments were residue retained (WR) permanent bed (PB) with sub-surface drip fertigation (PB-SSD): without N (N0), 120 kg N/ha,150 kg N/ha applied in 4-equal (Eq) and differential splits (Df); CA alone treatment includ PB furrow irrigation with 120 kg N/ha (PBWRFurrow- N120); conventional tillage (CT) involved furrow irrigation with 120 kg N/ha (CTWOR-Furrow-N120) and other treatments were residue removed (WOR) PB: PBWOR-without N (N0), with 120 kg N/ha, and 150 kg N/ha applied in four Eq-splits and Df-splits. The findings of the present experiment showed that the numerical value of yield attributing characters were higher under CA+ plots as compared to CA alone (PBWR-Furrow-N120) and CT (CTWOR-Furrow-N120). Biological yield of maize was significantly higher in all CA+ plots as compared to CA alone and CT plots. Highest biological yield was recorded under PBWR-SSD-N150 Df (23.45 t/ha). Highest no. of cobs (72800/ha), no. of grains/cob (605) and cob length (22.61cm) along with dry matter resulted highest biological yield in PBWR-SSD-N150 plots. The grain N content remained statistically similar across all the N management plots, but in case of total N uptake, PBWR-SSD-N150 Df (CA+) plots dominated due to higher biomass. Besides, CA+ based PBWR-SSD-N120 (average of Df and Eq) registered 23-24% higher total N uptake than CA alone (PBWRFurrow- N120) and conventional (CTWOR-Furrow-N120) plots. Improved agronomic N use-efficiency was also recorded under CA+ plots as compared to CA alone (36.4 kg/kg N) and CT (36.7 kg/kg N) plots.

A field study was framed in rice crop under conservation agriculture (CA) based rice-wheat system at experimental farm of Borlaug Institute for South Asia (BISA)-CIMMYT, Ladhowal, Punjab, India during kharif 2019. In the present study, nine treatments were imposed out of which four are CA-based treatments (ZT-N0, ZT-N50, ZT-N75 and ZT-N100), four are CA coupled with subsurface drip fertigation (CA+) based treatments (SSD-N0,SSD-N50, SSD-N75 and SSD-N100) and puddled transplanted rice (PTR) treatment as farmer's practice. The findings of the study showed that PTR treatment out yielded in terms of yield attributing characters and biological yield than other treatments. CA+ treatment (SSD-N100) resulted higher biological yield (2.8%) than CA-based treatments (ZT-N100). SSD-N100 dominated ZT-N100 and PTR treatment in terms of plant N content (both grain and straw), total N uptake and N harvest index. PTR treatment resulted 22-33% higher ANUE than ZT-N100 and SSD-N100 treatments.

Maize is one of the prominent cereal crops locally as well as internationally for both biological and industrial processing. The nutritional value of maize grains is graded to be poor due to limiting essential amino acids mainly lysine and tryptophan. A series of events beginning by the discovery of the opaque-2 mutation until the development of enhanced protein quality cultivars paved the way for the role of amino acid modifiers genes and proteins. Quality Protein Maize (QPM) is the improved variant of the normal maize with enhanced protein quality. Protein body (PB) formation and the association of the molecular structure of the starch and PB has been a study of concern. Various changes in biochemical pathways leading to the changed zein and non-zein proportions have been studied using transgenic technology which forms an important component of maize protein. Maintaining the quality parameter of QPM inbreds, hybrids and populations so developed is a scientific concern to the speedy and precise determination of quality parameters and further maintaining these parameters using standard breeding methods. The role of biochemist and biochemical techniques are of great significance in maize quality protein research since high throughput and precise nutrient profiling of breeding lines, populations, inbred lines and hybrids support a sound QPM development programme. Various advanced techniques have been developed so far, for the protein isolation till detection and quantification of protein.Among these, the most advanced is the Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography(UPLC) technique which is highly accurate and can be used efficiently for amino acid profiling of the maize germplasm, breeding lines and hybrids to support the decision making the process in QPM breeding programme. Thus, this review gives us an overview of the breeding methods and biochemical techniques utilized in the development of QPM in the current year 2019 and beyond.

A field experiment was conducted during 2018–19 and 2019–20 to assess the influence of precision nitrogen management options in preceding maize (Zea mays L.) on succeeding mustard (Brassica juncea L.) under conservation agriculture in sandy loam soil of Delhi. The experiment had two main plots of with residue (WR) and without residue (WoR) retention and four sub-plot treatments of N management applied in maize {recommended dose of N (RDN), 33, 50 and 70% basal RDN +green seeker (GS) based N application} and uniform recommended dose of 90 kg N/ha was applied for mustard in all treatments. A positive response to residual plus directly applied N and residue application was observed on growth, dry matter accumulation, yield attributes, yield and nutrient uptake of mustard. On a pooled mean basis, crop residue mulching enhanced 7.1 and 8.3% in seed and stalk yield of mustard with 9.4 and 5.2% higher net returns and B:C ratio. The 50% basal RDN + GS guided N applied treatment on pooled basis gave 5.9 and 5.2% higher seed and stalk yield and 7.7 and 7.9% higher net returns and B:C ratio compared to conventional RDN. The highest land productivity in mustard was also obtained with residue retention (`654/day) and 50% RDN +GS (`674/day). Overall, the study concluded that zero tillage with maize residue mulching and recommended nitrogen application in mustard in rotation with 50% basal RDN+GS guided N applied maize improves the crop growth, yield attributes, yield and net returns of mustard, and could be implemented in maize-mustard cropping system under resource-poor semi-arid conditions

Area under organic cultivation of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is increasing in India. The present two-year study was carried out during 2017–18 and 2018–19 to observe the yield performance of wheat with application of silicon solution (amorphous silica SiO2) under sub-humid conditions of southern plains and Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan. Factorial RBD with five levels of silicon concentration and three growth stages, viz. CRI, tillering and jointing stages were replicated thrice during rabi season of 2017–18 and 2018–19 at Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. Results revealed that application of silicon 8 g/litre water at tillering stage proved significantly superior in enhancing growth characteristics, yield attributes, yield and also gave maximum net returns of 110281/ha and B:C ratio of 2.32

A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2018 at Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan), to study the effect of phospho enriched compost and zinc on soil properties and productivity of blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) in Typic Haplustepts soil of sub-humid southern plain of Rajasthan. The treatments comprised of four levels of phospho enriched compost (PEC), i.e. control, PEC @ 2, 4 and 6 t/ha and four levels of zinc i.e. control, Zn @ 2, 4 and 6 kg/ha.The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with three replications. Results revealed significant increase in soil available nitrogen, potassium and zinc content with increasing levels of phospho enriched compost and zinc up to 4 t/ha and 4 kg/ha, respectively and also significantly enhanced the crop yield, protein content and economics of blackgram. However, interactive effect of the seed and stover yield was found to be significantly higher in combined application of phospho enriched compost @ 6 t/ha and zinc @ 6 kg/ ha as compared to other combinations of phospho enriched compost and zinc. The application of phospho enriched compost @ 4 t/ha and zinc @ 4 kg/ha along with the recommended dose of fertilizer results in significantly higher productivity, protein content and economics of blackgram under Typic Haplustepts soil.

Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.] is traditionally sown either by broadcasting or with ordinary wheat seed drill having drawbacks of high seed rate, seed breakage, less seed germination, uneven and dense plant population resulting into low seed yield. A Mustard Planter was developed and evaluated at research station as well as farmers' field against wheat seed drill (farmer's practice) during 2016-18 to vanquish the pre-taxed constraints in Indian mustard. Results showed significant improvement in branches per plant, girth of basal node, leaf area index (LAI), relative water content (RWC), seed yield, harvest index, test weight and accrued higher benefit margin in the station trials. Farmer's field trials also recorded optimum plant population, higher plant height, branches per plant and stem girth. Mustard Planter sown crop recorded more seed yield (+9-22%), harvest index (+11.7%), Test weight (+13.6%), net return (+13.3-30.6%) and B/C ratio (+16%) in the station as well as farmer's field trials. The fields sown with Mustard Planter also conserved soil moisture (>100%) over wheat seed drill in 0-60 cm soil depth during the crop mid-season. The results endorsed that the Mustard Planter is an efficient seeding machine for sowing of rapeseed-mustard in the rainfed situation and may be recommended for its wider adaptability in the region for the benefit of the farmers.

The present experiment on genetic inheritance of fruit traits (ridgeness, tubercles and curviness) and seed coat colour of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) was carried out at experimental farm of Division of Vegetable Science, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi in 2014–16. The study provides genetic information for development of new varieties and hybrids as per the consumer preference. The classical Chi-square (χ2) test was used to estimate the inheritance pattern of qualitative traits using six generations (P1, P2, F1, F2, BC1P1 and BC1P2; F3 generation as F2 for seed coat colour). Inheritance of fruit traits like continuous ridges (Cr: in DBGS-54 × DBGS-2 and DBSS-54 × Pusa Vishesh; χ2 = 0.09; P = 0.76 and χ2 = 0.50; P = 0.48, respectively), tubercles (Tb: DBGS-54 × DBGS-2 and DBSS-54 × Pusa Vishesh; χ2 = 0.50; P = 0.48and χ2 = 0.01; P = 0.92, respectively), fruit curviness (Cf: DBGS-54 × DBGS-2; χ2 = 0.02; P = 0.89) and black seed coat colour (Bs: Pusa Aushadhi × DBGS-54 and DBGS-54 × DBGS-2; χ2 = 0.73; P = 0.39 and χ2 = 0.02; P = 0.89, respectively) were found to be controlled by single dominant gene. Simple inheritance of these fruit traits will enable the bitter gourd breeder to incorporate these traits in hybrids. The black seed coat colour will act as a morphological marker for hybrid seed purity test too.

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate agrometeorological parameters associated with seed yield of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) varieties in an organic production system. During the study, significant variation was recorded in crop phenophases, growth, yield attributes, and seed yield of mustard. Varieties NRCHB-101 and Pusa Mustard-25 have taken significantly minimum days to commence flowering (46–48 days) and attaining physiological maturity (89–90 days). Variety RGN-48 being at par with RH-406 and RGN-229, recorded significantly higher plant height, while RGN-229 recorded the significantly highest biomass accumulation at all the growth stages. Varieties RH-406, Pusa Bold, and DRMRIJ-31 recorded significantly higher seeds per siliqua (16.2–16.5), whereas significantly higher test weight was recorded in Pusa Bold (6.3 g) and DRMRIJ-31 (6.0 g). In seed yield, variety RH-406 (1.97 t/ha) and DRMRIJ-31 (1.42 t/ha) were found significantly highest and lowest, respectively. A significant positive correlations of mustard seed yield was noticed with biomass accumulation at 30 DAS (r=441**), 60 DAS (r=0.614**), 90 DAS (r=0.620**) and biological yield at harvest (r=0.496**). Contrary to test weight, seeds per siliqua had shown a positive effect (r=0.266*) on the seed yield of the mustard. Seed yield of mustard was also influenced by some agrometeorological indices with correlation coefficients (r) of mean minimum temperature at flowering and physiological maturity and mean maximum temperature at physiological maturity were -0.207*, -0.249*, and -0.241*, respectively. Net solar radiation and cumulative temperature difference at physiological maturity also had significant and positive effects on the seed yield of mustard.

Long melon [Cucumis melo var. utilissimus (Roxb.) Duthie & Fuller] cultivation in open field condition in northern India is hampered due to extremes of the temperature from September to January. Therefore, the present study was carried out to explore possibility for off-season production of long melon under protected conditions at Center for Protected Cultivation Technology (CPCT), ICAR-IARI, New Delhi in 2016–17 and 2017–18. Seedlings were transplanted as per five different spacing and branch pruning methods. The combination of closer spacing with maximum branch node pruning method under polyhouse structure was found better for off-season long melon production. Flowering appeared earlier by 4.02 days, first fruit picking by 5 days, additional number of pickings (5 times) and harvesting period extended by 60 days in polyhouse compared to insect proof net-house structure. The closer spacing S1 (50 cm × 20 cm) exhibited maximum weight of fruits, fruit yield, gross income as well as net-income and B: C ratio. Among pruning methods, complete branch pruning method P1 (single stem cultivation or branch less cultivation) contributed positively significant effect on all parameters of long melon. The combination of polyhouse structure with closer spacing (50 cm × 20 cm) and optimum branch pruning (after one node cutting) gave highest yield and net income per unit area for off-season cultivation of long melon.

Proper plant spacing and foliar application of micronutrients is necessary for higher yield and quality. The experiment was conducted to determine the effect of spacing and micronutrients on fruit yield of bitter gourd grown under protected structures (nethouse and polyhouse). The variety Pusa Rasdar (27.06 days) showed superior performance over Selection 32 (30.03 days) for opening of first female flower under net house. The wider spacing (30 cm × 50 cm) enhanced early female flower (28.29 days) compared to closer spacing (under nethouse). The Pusa Rasdar was superior for node number of first female flower (11.25 nodes) followed by Selection 32 (13.28 nodes) (under nethouse). The wider spacing (30 cm × 50 cm) had a significant effect on first node of female flower appearance (12.37 and 11.87 nodes) under polyhouse and net house. The maximum fruit weight was in Pusa Rasdar (206.89 g) (under nethouse). The application of boron @0.2% and calcium @0.6% enhanced the number of fruits per plant (11.00 and 10.80) (under net house). The wider spacing (30 cm × 50 cm) also produced the highest number of fruits per plant (11.37) in Pusa Rasdar (under net house) condition. The maximum fruit yield per plant was recorded in Pusa Rasdar (2122.70 g) compared to Selection 32 (1646.61 g) (under net house). The wider spacing (30 cm × 50 cm) also produced maximum fruit yield (2137.25 g) in Pusa Rasdar (under net house). Therefore, higher yield of bitter gourd could be obtained under net house with broader spacing (30 cm × 50 cm) along with proper doses of micronutrients (0.2% boron and 0.6% calcium).

Increasing energy use efficiency and reducing greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions from agriculture are major challenges to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs). An experiment, comprising 14 treatments, viz. sole peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.), peanut-fallow-sesbania, peanut-fallow-green gram (GG), peanut-conventional tilled wheat (CTW), peanut-CTW-sesbania, peanut-CTW-GG, peanut-CTW-wheat straw incorporation (WSI), peanut-zero tilled wheat (ZTW), peanut-ZTW-sesbania, peanut-ZTW-GG, peanut-ZTW-WSI, peanut+pigeonpea, peanut+pigeonpeasesbania and peanut+pigeonpea-GG was laid out in randomized block design with three replications for five consecutive years (2011–12 to 2015–16) at Junagadh, Gujarat, at fixed site to study the influence of conservation agricultural practices on energetics and profitability of peanut-based cropping systems. Green manuring with sesbania significantly improved the pod yield of peanut (12.8%) and seed yield of pigeonpea (8.9%). Zero tillage (ZT) improved wheat yield by 4.8% over Conventional tillage (CT). The energy requirement of peanut+pigeonpea intercropping was 16.7% lower than peanut–wheat cropping system irrespective of GM and WSI. Peanut–ZT wheat with sesbania green manure recorded highest energy output (251.2 × 103 MJ/ha) and net energy (201.0 × 103 MJ/ha). This cropping system also fetched the highest system productivity (4551 kg/ha), and system profitability (` 125.7 × 103/ha) followed by peanut–ZT wheat (INR 120.6/ha × 103/ha). Therefore, peanut–ZT wheat–green manuring (sesbania/greengram) cropping system was found as productive, economical and energy efficient which might be promoted to intensify the sole peanut cropping in Saurashtra region of Gujarat.

Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith)) is an invasive pest reported in 2018 from India which principally attacks maize during vegetative and reproductive stages. Investigations were carried out to understand biology of the pest in new tropical and sub-tropical environment for devising effective management strategies in maize. The biological aspects included morphometrics and life cycle of fall armyworm reared on maize under laboratory conditions at 26–31ºC and 50–65% relative humidity during August- September, 2018 to January-February, 2019 i.e. 34th to 6th standard weeks (SDW). Life table parameters including stage specific and age specific fecundity, population growth attributes and life expectancy of fall armyworm were computed. The diameter of eggs, length and width of body and their head capsules of different larval instars, pre-pupa, pupa, male and female adults were also measured.

The present investigation was carried out to study the soil microbial dynamics and enzyme activities as influenced by organic nutrients management in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] under Typic Haplustepts soil of Rajasthan. The experiment comprised 12 treatment combinations of organic source of nutrients, i. e. control (T1), 100% RDF (T2), 100% FYM (T3), 100% vermicompost (T4), 100% compost (T5), 100% green-leaf manure (T6), 50% FYM + 50% vermicompost (T7), 50% FYM + 50% compost (T8), 50% FYM + 50% green-leaf manure (T9), 50% vermicompost + 50% compost (T10), 50% vermicompost + 50% green leaf manure (T11) and 50% compost + 50% green-leaf manure (T12). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with four replications. The soil microbial population (bacterial, fungal, actinomycetes) at 30 DAS, 60 DAS, dehydrogenase activity and alkaline phosphatase activity of soil significantly influenced due to organic nutrient fertilization, viz. 100% vermicompost treatment (T4) in pooled analysis. However, the application of 100% vermicompost (T4) on bacterial population, fungal population, actinomycetes population of soil at 30 DAS and 60 DAS was found statistically at par with the application of 50% FYM + 50% vermicompost (T7), 50% FYM + 50% compost (T8), 50% vermicompost + 50% compost (T10) and 50% vermicompost + 50% green-leaf manure (T11) in pooled analysis.

Sweet corn (Zea mays saccharata) under organic farming is becoming popular in India. Field experiment was conducted during 2019 and 2020 to investigate the effect of nitrogen through FYM and silicon on growth and yield of sweet corn under organic farming at Organic Farming Unit, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan. The experiment was conducted in split-plot design with three replications and treatments consisted of four doses of recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) applied through farmyard manure (FYM), i.e. control, 100, 75 and 50% of RDN through FYM and four levels of silicon, i. e. control, 100, 150 and 200 kg silicon/ha. Significantly higher plant height, dry matter accumulation, leaf area index, cob length, number of grains/cob, green-cob yield, green fodder yield and biological yield of sweet corn were obtained with the application of 100% RDN through FYM followed by application of 75% RDN through FYM and silicon @ 200 kg/ha followed by application of silicon @ 150 kg/ha. Interaction effect of application of 100% RDN through FYM in combination with silicon @ 200 kg/ha recorded significantly higher green-cob yield in comparison to 100% RDN through FYM without silicon as well as at lower levels of silicon. Thus, it may be concluded that application of 100% RDN through FYM with integration of silicon @ 200 kg/ha gives better green-cob yield of sweet corn under organic farming.

The escalating labour prices have significantly increased the production cost of kharif maize in India. To addressthis, a field experiment was conducted (2017) to evaluate the efficacy of post-emergence herbicide in kharif maize(Zea mays L.) at ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research, Pusa Campus, New Delhi. The tank-mix post-emergenceherbicide application, viz. tembotrione (120 g/ha) or topramezone (25.2 g/ha) at 15 DAS with 75% atrazine (750 g/ha) or as a sequential application at 25 DAS after pre-emergence (PE) 75% atrazine gave significant weed control inkharif maize by reducing density and dry weight. Significantly higher weed-control efficiency, weed-control index,herbicide efficiency index and lower weed persistence index were found in weed-free check, which was at par withPE atrazine (1000 g/ha) followed by hand weeding at 25 DAS and the post-emergence herbicide application oftembotrione (120 g/ha) /topramezone (25.2 g/ha) as tank-mix with 75% atrazine dose as early post-emergence at 15DAS or as the sequential application of these combinations. Significantly lowest weed index was observed in thesequential application of tembotrione/topramezone at 25 DAS after 75% atrazine dose as PE while the highest weedindex (49.3) with alone halosulfuron application. It was concluded that the application of post-emergence herbicide,viz. tembotrione (120 g/ha) /topramezone (25.2 g/ha) as tank-mix at 15 DAS with 75% dose of atrazine (750 g/ha)or as a sequential application at 25 DAS after 75% atrazine as PE found promising for better weed control and grainyield in kharif maize.

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the impacts of phospho-enriched compost and fertility levels on soil biological properties in Typic Haplustepts soil of Sub-humid Southern Plain and Aravalli Hills Region in Rajasthan. The experiment was undertaken during kharif 2018 and 2019 at Instructional Farm (Agronomy), Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan). The treatments comprised four levels of phospho-enriched compost (PEC), i.e. control, PEC @ 2.0, 4.0 and 6.0 t/ha and four levels of fertility (kg/ha) i.e. control, 50% RDF + foliar spray of Zn @ 0.5%, 75% RDF + foliar spray of Zn @ 0.5% and 100% RDF + foliar spray of Zn @ 0.5%, respectively. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with three replications. Significant improvement in different soil biological properties, i.e. alkaline phosphate activity, dehydrogenase activity and soil microbial biomass carbon was observed with increasing levels of phospho-enriched compost and fertility up to 6 t/ ha and 100% RDF + foliar spray of Zn @ 0.5%, respectively after harvest of the maize (Zea mays L.) crop during both the years as well as in pooled analysis. In case of fertility levels, however, the microbial populations in soil after harvest of crop increase was significant up to 75% RDF + foliar spray of Zn @ 0.5% which was found statistically at par with 100% RDF + foliar spray of Zn @ 0.5%. The application of phospho-enriched compost @ 6 t/ha and 100% RDF + foliar spray of Zn @ 0.5% along with the recommended dose of fertilizer results in significantly higher biological properties of soil under Typic Haplustepts.

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is the center of all physical, chemical and biological properties of soils, its maintenance and buildup in soils is necessary to sustain the intensive cereal-based cropping system of Indo Gangetic plains. Intensive tillage, residue removal and indiscriminate use of fertilizers led to a continuous deterioration of soil health in Indo Gangetic parts of the country. Under this context, a field experiment on conservation agriculture (CA) was conducted at Taroari, Karnal, comprising four combinations of tillage and residue management [i.e. conventional tillage (CT) with complete residue removal (CT-RR), CT with 20% residue incorporation of wheat, 50% residue incorporation of maize and incorporation of green gram residue (CT+RI+GI), permanent beds (PB) with 20% residue retention of wheat and 50% residue retention of maize (PB+RR), and PB with 20% residue retention of wheat, 50% residue retention of maize and retention of green gram residue (PB+RR+GR)] and three nutrient management options [viz. farmers fertilization practice (FFP), recommended fertilizer dose (RDF) and site-specific nutrient management (SSNM)]. The results showed that, there was an increase in SOC mainly the active SOC pools, permanganate oxidizable-C (1.70 g/kg), hot water extractable-C (0.32 g/kg) and soil microbial biomass C (310 mg/kg) under CA-based treatment (PB+RR+GR) compared to CT (0.58, 0.23 g/kg, 183 mg/kg, respectively). Also, the mineral N was invariably greater under residue treatments. Therefore, crops residue retention as well as balanced fertilization (RDF and SSNM) under CA helped in improving SOC; mineral N and soil aggregation stability which can lead to increased sustainability under cereal-based intensive cropping systems.

Farm record keeping can provide a look into the health of farm business, its profitability, and a snapshot in time of its present equity. However, farmers in developing country seldom maintain written records of farm operations. In many cases, farmers consider it worthless exercise. They feel overwhelmed by record keeping because it takes time, a change in behavior and for some, the requirement to learn a new skill. This study assesses the role of record keeping, particularly among women and youth using data collected in afarmers participatory research undertaken under the CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS). Farmers (both male and female) in climate smart villages (CSVs) of Haryana were acquainted with farm Lekha Jokha (farm budgeting) booklet designed by CIMMYT-CCAFS partners and training to fill the information was given by the field staff including male and females (CIMMYT-CCAFS 2014). The study was undertaken during 2014-15 and 2015-16. Based on the data recorded through Lekha Jokha, the study also estimated the adoption and economics of different climate smart agricultural practices (CSAPs). The farm budgeting found to be very effective tool for increased awareness among women and men farmers especially youth which lead to accelerated adoption of CSAPs. With adoption of CSAPs proven reduced climatic risk was observed in terms of yield penalty, income and distress. The results identifies a platform for social inclusive development in agriculture to promote evidence based informed policy decisions for investment prioritization.

In Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP, ~18 mha geographical area), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a predominant crop grown in rabi. Improving the productivity of wheat in a rice-based farming system through a suitable cultivar in IGP is necessary to evaluate under the agro-ecological condition of IGP of India. A farmer’s participatory field experiment was studied at three villages Saunta, Sathedi and Bhangela situated in Khatauli block of Muzaffarnagar (Uttar Pradesh) under two crop environments (low rainfall and high temperature, LRHT and heavy rainfall and low temperature, HRLT) with four wheat varieties during rabi of 2017–18 and 2018–19. In this study we have evaluated the productivity in isolation as well as in combination of prevailing weather scenario (2017–18 and 2018–19) under irrigated agro-ecosystems of Western Plain Zone of Uttar Pradesh. Interaction studied between crop environments and varieties indicated that PBW-550 and PBW 658 registered higher grain yield of 5514 and 5475 kg/ha, respectively than farmers practice (PBW-226, 4659 kg/ha) and DBW-90 (4647 kg/ha) in LRHT. However, under HRLT, PBW-658 performed better (5326 kg/ha) over other cultivars. Mean grain yield of all four cultivars were recorded significantly higher under LRHT with 5074 kg/ha compared to HRLT where mean grain yield was 4710 kg/ha. A highly significant (P=0.01) negative association was found between grain yield and monthly rainfall (except December month) and cumulative rainfall of the crop season (-0.322**). Prevailing mean monthly air temperature during grain filling to maturity phenophase was found to be positively associated with grain yield (r = -0.322*).

Area under organic cultivation of crops is increasing not only in India but also in Rajasthan as well. Weeds are often recognized as the most serious threat to organic crop production and fear of ineffective weed control is often perceived by farmers as one of the major obstacles to conversion from conventional to organic farming. A two years field experiment was conducted to study the non-chemical methods of weed management in organically grown sweet corn (Zea mays L.) during 2018-19. Among the 12 organic weed management treatments, soil solarization + plastic mulch at sowing resulted in significantly lower weed density, weed dry matter, higher yield attributes and yield over other treatments but at par with stale seed bed preparation + plastic mulch at sowing during both the years. Stale seed bed preparation + plastic mulch at sowing gave highest net returns and benefit-cost ratio of ₹ 62746 and 105201 and 1.62 and 2.35, respectively followed by weedy check, which gave the net returns and benefit: cost ratio of ₹ 16093, 26858 and 0.96 and 2.18, respectively.

A field experiment was conducted during rabi 2017-18 and 2018-19 at organic farming unit of Instructional Agronomy Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur, Rajasthan to study the influence of different concentrations of jeevamrut and its time of application on growth, yield attributes and yield of wheat grown under organic farming. Results revealed that a significant increase in plant height, dry matter accumulation, number of effective tillers, number of spikelets/ear, number of grains/ear, ear length and grain weight/ear, was observed with the application of 10% jeevamrut over control, 4% jeevamrut and 6% jeevamrut. There was no significant difference observed in grain and straw yield of wheat with the application of 4% and 6% jeevamrut over control. However, application of 8% and 10% jeevamrut significantly increased the grain and straw yield of wheat over control. Application of jeevamrut at 60 and 75 DAS significantly increased plant height, dry matter accumulation, number of effective tillers, number of spikelets/ear, number of grains/ear, ear length and grain weight/ear over the application of jeevamrut at 75 and 90 DAS. Application of jeevamrut twice at 60 and 75 DAS and 75 and 90 DAS significantly increased the grain and straw yield of wheat as compared to one time application of jeevamrut 75 and 90 DAS alone. There was no significant interaction found in the concentration of jeevamrut and its time of application.

A field experiment was conducted to study the influence of soil applied zinc on productivity, nutrient uptake and profitability of soybean (Glycine max L.) under Typic Haplustepts soil of sub-humid southern plain and aravalli hills region of Rajasthan during kharif 2016 and 2017. The treatments were consisted of five levels of zinc, viz. zero (control), 3 kg Zn/ha, 4 kg Zn/ha, 5 kg Zn/ha and 6 kg Zn/ha with four replications. Results revealed that significantly (P=0.05) maximum number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, test weight, seed yield, haulm yield, biological yield, nutrient content and uptake (N, K and Zn) in seed and haulm, net return and B:C ratio were recorded with the application of zinc @ 6 kg/ha along with the recommended dose of fertilizer (NPK) during 2016-17 and in pooled basis. However, the increase was significant up to 5 kg Zn/ha during both the years as well as in pooled analysis which was found statistically at par with 6 kg Zn/ha. Whereas, the application of zinc significantly decreased the phosphorus content in seed and haulm as compared to control and phosphorus uptake by seed and haulm was found to be non-significant with the application of zinc during both the years as well as in pooled analysis. The application of recommended dose of fertilizer along with combined application of Zn @ 5 kg/ha offered the best combination in realizing maximum yield of soybean and maximizing the economics both in absolute terms (net returns) and benefit-cost ratio.

The present experiment was conducted in naturally ventilated polyhouse structure at CPCT, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi for off-season cultivation of long melon (Cucumis melo var. utilissimus) during 2016 and 2017 under five plant spacing and five branch pruning methods. Plant spacing and pruning methods revealed significant positive influence on yield and net return. Fruit yield decreased with increasing plant spacing and it was found maximum in closer spacing of 50 cm × 20 cm. The net return and B:C ratio also followed similar trends. Among different pruning methods, node branch pruning method (P3) gave highest yield (76.35 q/1000m2) with maximum net return of ₹ 81020/1000m2 and BC ratio 1:1.36 compared to other pruning intensity or no pruning (control). Pruning method involving three nodes per branch was statistically at par in net return and BC ratio with two-nodes per branch method. Study showed that off-season cultivation of long melon under polyhouse structure is a good option to farmers for generating more income and employment.

Varietal evaluation of maize under organic input management provides protection against reduction in yield due to lack of suitable technology for growing potential varieties with organic inputs especially for plant nutrition supply. In this study 12 varieties of different types of maize comprising Hybrids, Sweet corn, Baby corn, Popcorn and Local were grown in southern west tribal part of Rajasthan, India for evaluation under organic system of plant nutrient management during kharif 2015-16. Sweet corn variety, Misty recorded significantly higher plant height at flowering during kharif 2015-16 (121.44 cm and 117.67 cm, respectively), maize hybrid variety T3 (PHM-3) recorded significantly higher dry matter accumulation at tasseling stage (83.33 g/plant & 81.00 g/plant, respectively) and sweet corn variety T4 (Sugar-75) recorded significantly higher leaf area index at silking stage (4.23 and 4.23, respectively) as compared to other varieties of different types of maize grown under organic system of plant nutrient management. During 2015 and 2016, variety T9 (VL-Amber of popcorn) recorded maximum maize equivalent yield (165.57 q/ha and 117.03 q/ha, respectively) and net return (₹ 218120/ha and ₹ 139741/ha, respectively).

The present field experiment was conducted at ICAR-Directorate of Groundnut Research, Junagadh (Gujarat) for two consecutive summer of 2014 and 2015 to investigate the influence of drip fertigation on yield, nutrient uptake and soil properties of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in Saurashtra region of Gujarat. There were 10 treatments including 100% normal fertilizers (NF) with surface method of irrigation as contral which were replicated three times. The study revealed that drip fertigation with 100% NF (T10) produced significantly higher pod yield over control and was at par with other treatments. However, haulm yield was significantly higher under the application of 100% WSF fertigation half at sowing and one-fourth each at 20 and 40 DAS (T4) over T6 to T9 and was at par with other treatments including control. Soil moisture status showed declining trend with successive increase in plant age but could not reach the level of significance. Drip fertigation with 100% NF (T10) registered markedly higher uptakes of N (114.4 kg/ha), P (30.5 kg/ha) and K (67.2 kg/ha) over all the treatments. As compared to initial status, available soil NPK status improved after harvest at all soil depths and showed declining trend with increase in soil depth. The study indicated the saving of 25% NPK fertilizers by adopting 75% WSF fertigation through drip irrigation at sowing in summer peanut with comparable yield.

To assess the influence of conservation agriculture (CA) practices on productivity and sustainability of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) - based cropping systems, the present field experiment was conducted for five consecutive years (2011-12 to 2015-16) at Junagadh, Gujarat, India. The experiment, comprising 14 treatments, viz. sole peanut, peanut-Sesbania, peanut-green gram (GG), peanut-conventional tilled wheat (CTW), peanut-CTW-Sesbania, peanut- CTW-GG, peanut-CTW-wheat straw incorporation (WSI), peanut-zero tilled wheat (ZTW), peanut-ZTW-Sesbania, peanut-ZTW-GG, peanut-ZTW-WSI, peanut+pigeonpea, peanut+pigeonpea-Sesbania and peanut+pigeonpea-GG was laid out in randomized block design with three replications at fixed site. Peanut -CTW-Sesbania cropping system (2.94 t/ha) recorded maximum pod yield of peanut while haulm yield was higher under peanut-ZTW-Sesbania (3.24 t/ha). Green manuring with Sesbania in peanut-ZTW and peanut+pigeonpea recorded higher grain yield of wheat (2.91 t/ha) and sud yield of pigeonpea (1.93 t/ha), respectively. System productivity (4.55 t/ha) was significantly higher under peanut-ZTW-Sesbania cropping system over sole peanut (with or without GM), peanut-CTW/ZTW, peanut- ZTW-WSI and peanut+pigeonpea (with or without GM). Peanut-ZTW-Sesbania also recorded maximum sustainable yield index (0.46) and sustainable value index (0.48) than other cropping systems. Thus, peanut followed by ZTW or CTW and GM was more productive and sustainable than sole peanut.

Genetic interaction and inheritance study in bitter gourd was carried out using six-generation mean analysis to determinate the types and magnitude of gene effects for yield and its attributes. The knowledge portioning to gene action and interaction, is tool for designing appropriate breeding strategy for developing varieties in bitter gourd. Four crosses, viz. DBGS-54 × DBGS-34, DBGS-2 × DBGS-34, PVGy-201 × Pusa Do Mousami and DBGS-2 × DBGS-3 were used for studying six generation (P1, P2, F1, F2, B1 and B2) model. The presence of non-allelic interaction were detected by both scaling test and joint scaling test and observed inadequacy of the additive-dominance model for all traits except vine length in cross PVGy-201 × Pusa Do Mousami.The results revealed the contribution of additive (d), dominance (h) and epistasis interaction (i, j, l) towards expression of all traits studied. In most of the characters magnitude of dominance gene effect was greater than additive gene effect suggested that recurrent selection or heterosis breeding would prove useful. Duplicate epistasis was prevalent in most of the traits like vine length, days to first female flower and fruit weight. Fruit epicarp colour and seed coat colour inheritance suggested these traits were controlled by monogenic.

Maize (Zea mays L.) has diversified uses in the form of food, feed and fodder. In India green fodder deficit of 61.1 % has been reported. Under this scenario, maize and its wild relatives with its wide adaptability have enormous potential to serve as nutritious fodder. The annual teosinte, Zea mays ssp. parviglumis, the closest ancestor of modern maize has good tillering and re-growth ability. In an experiment on parviglumis, the effect of 30 kg higher nitrogen than recommended dose showed 12.5% and 20% improvement in tiller re-growth ability (multi-cut) and green fodder yield, respectively. In a pilot trial, fresh cut (first cut) and re-growth (at the second cut) whole/unchaffed fodder samples of parviglumis were fed to the adult goats and grower kids (9 months old) of beetal breed. Re-growth based fodder samples were consumed completely (no leftover) by adult goats as well as grower kids, while fresh (first cut) samples had negligible leftover for adult goats but 32% leftover for grower kids. Goats being selective in feeding habits tend to eat soft and leafy parts and avoid hard and thick (stem) parts of fodder plants hence leftover might be lesser if fed to large ruminants. To exploit these traits, parviglumis was crossed to fodder variety, African tall and 11 promising fodder maize inbred lines. The F1 generation of different wide crosses exhibited a good amount of tillering with many tillers ranging from 1 to 15 indicating partial dominant nature of tillering trait and background effect. The further advancement of promising crosses through backcrossing can help to develop multi-tiller as well as multi-cut trait possessing fodder maize cultivars. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study on the systematic use of Zea mays ssp. parviglumis for harnessing its tillering and re-growth ability in fodder maize breeding programme.