PhenotyPic And PlAnt groWth Promoting (PgP ...

Contents Advances in Plant Breeding and Prospects for the Future RK Gumber and RS Gill

1

Wheat Improvement Strategies for Warmer Areas of the Country SK Singh, SA Desai, RS Shukla, V Tiwari & Indu Sharma

5

Role of Marker-Assisted Selection in Plant Breeding Manoj Kumar, Narendra Singh, Paritosh Kumar, Dr. P.C.Gupta

9

An Over-View of Somatic Embryogenesis in Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) 16 Hira Singh and T S Dhillon Impact of Alien Cytoplasms on Phenological and Yield Traits under Different Irrigation Environment in Sunflower 18 Vikrant Tyagi and S. K. Dhillon Characterisation of Male Sterile and Male Fertile Lines for Floral Traits in Wheat Ashwin B. Dahake, A.K. Chhabra, S.K. Sethi and Ravika

20

Study the Genetic Divergence among Different Genotypes through D2 and Molecular Marker Analysis in Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Chandanshive Aniket Vilas, Sabina Islam, Subodh Joshi, M K Rana A D Munshi

22

Morpho-Physiological Response of Drought Stress in A Diversity Fixed Foundation Set of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.Czern & Coss) Javed Akhatar* and S. S. Banga

25

Agronomic Performance of Novel Terminal Flowering Variants in Brassica juncea L. Czern & Coss (Indian mustard) 28 Harjeevan Kaur and S.S. Banga Selection Indices for Earliness, Yield and Quality Traits in Sugarcane for Subtropical Region of India Gulzar S. Sanghera, Vikrant Tyagi, Rajinder Kumar and K S Thind

31

Sensory Evaluation of Carrot Vegetable Prepared from Organically and Inorganically Grown Carrot Bajpai Preeti and Punia Darshan

35

Identification of Stem Rust Resistance Genes in Elite Bread Wheat Genotypes Manoj Saini, SK Singh, P Sharma, V Tiwari and Indu Sharma

38

Plant Disease Management: Innovative and Modern Approaches Jagtar Singh Dhiman

41

Inheritance of Powdery Mildew Resistance in WH542 X Synthetic 43 RIL Population Meha Sharma, Parveen Chhuneja, Kuldeep Singh, Satinder Kaur

49

Screening of Recombinant Inbred Lines (RILs) of Wheat Triticum Aestivum L. for Karnal Bunt Resistance Ravika, A.K.Chhabra, V.Chawla, Rajender Baniwal and Ashwin B. Dahake

52

Defending Wheat from Stripe Rust in Punjab 55 Madhu Meeta Jindal, Achla Sharma,Vijay Kumar, Jugraj Singh Marok, Indu Bhagat, Puja Srivastava and N. S Bains Bacterial Leaf Blight Disease of Rice: Its Occurrence and Biological Control Anil K. Singh, Prakash Singh, P. K. Singh1 Ravi P. Singh, H. B. Singh and Jitendra Kumar

59

Management of Chickpea (K 850) Wilt against Fusarium oxysporum ciceri Vipul Kumar, Mohammad Shahid, Anita Puyam and Mukesh Srivastava

63

Bio-Efficacy of Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis against Bacterial Wilt of Tomato caused by Ralstonia solanacearum E.F. Smith (Yabuuchi et. al.) 67 C. Gopalakrishnan, Rashmi B. Artal and B. Thippeswamy Bioefficacy of Insecticides, Biopesticides and their Combinations against Peach Leaf Curl Aphid, Brachycaudus helichrysi (Kaltenbach) infesting peach Gagandeep Singh and Divender Gupta

71

Distribution of Anthocorid Bugs on Different Flora in Sub-Temperate and Temperate Zone of Himachal Pradesh (India) Nisha Devi, P R Gupta and KC Sharma

74

Biology of Citrus Psylla, Diaphorina Citri Kuwayama on Three Host Plants During Summer Season Hijam S. Devi And D. R. Sharma

78

Prospective of Black Gram PIs as Pest Control Agents by Targeting Development of Melon Fruit Fly Amrit Pal Kaur, Satwinder K. Sohal

81

Insect Pests Association and Evaluation for Efficacy of Organic Inputs in Organically Grown Cabbage Surender Kumar Sharma and Neha Thakur and K.S. Verma

83

Ant Biodiversity and its Relationship to Ecosystem Rakesh Kumar, Himender Bharti & Gurjant Singh Gatoria

90

Effect of Some Plant Extracts on the Parasitization of Egg Parasitoid Trichogramma Chilonis Ishii (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) Kangjam Bumpy and Neerja Agrawal

99

Implementation and Impact of IPM in India Narendra Singh, Manoj Kumar, A.R.Naqvi

102

Prospective of Microbial Chitin Deacetylase Enzyme in Improvement of Agriculture Sonu Rani Kashyap and Neelam Garg

106

Pest Diversity of Arctiid Moths (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae) from India Rahul Joshi

109

Diversity of an Economically Important Group of Moths – Geometridae (Lepidoptera) from Western Ghats of India 111 Tarun Goyal Resource Conservation Technologies in Agriculture S S Manhas, K S Brar & J S Brar

115

Furrow Irrigated Broad Bed Planting System: For Better Water Management in Kharif Maize Jasvir Singh Gill and Gurpreet Kaur

118

Factors Influencing Adoption of Direct Seeding of Rice Technology in Punjab Agriculture Sumit Bhardwaj, Baljinder Kaur Sidana and Parminder Kaur

120

Comparative Performance of Different Resource Conservation Technologies System in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Dipender Kumar, R.K. Naresh, Madhulika Pandey

129

Nitrous Oxide Mitigation Potential of Conservation Agriculture Practices for Wheat Crop Vivek Shankar, Grewal, M. S., Tek Sapkota and Jat, M.L

131

Phenotypic and Plant Growth Promoting (PGP) Diversity of Mesorhizobia from Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L. Rhizosphere 138 Gaganpreet Kaur, Poonam Sharma and Kailash Chand Kumawat Effect of Rock Phosphate Incubated with FYM and Bio-Fertilizer on Productivity, Soil Fertility, Quality and Economics of Wheat 143

K.G. Vyas, A.M. Patel, P.K. Bhatt, C.H. Raval, B.L. Yadav, V.B. Mor and Monika Sharma

Productivity and Economics as Influenced by Different Summer Pearl Millet Based Intercropping Systems B.L. Yadav, B.S. Patel, K.G. Vyas, P.K. Bhatt, C.H. Raval, V.B. Mor, B. Saini and Monika Sharma

147

Influence of Plant Growth Regulators on Chlorophyll of Cotton Plants Rajni and J S Deol

150

Crop Performance and Irrigation Water Productivity of Rice (Oryza sativa) in Relation to Divergent Establishment Methods 152 Rajan Bhatt and S S Kukal Isolation and Characterization of Non-Rhizobial Endophytes Bacteria in Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) K.C. Kumawat, Poonam Sharma, B.S. Gill and G. Kaur

155

Economic Returns and Enhanced Quality in Orchid (Dendrobium Sonia 17 ) Using Biosafe Compound-Chitosan Dr. SunilaKumari, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Dr. Panj F. G.

161

Effect of Microbial Inoculation in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) On Soil Microflora D S Khurana, Madhu Gangwar, Sakshi Verma, Kulbir Singh and Hira Singh

166

Effect of Inorganic Fertilizer, Organic Manure and Bio-Fertilizer on Growth, Yield and Quality of Plum cv. Santa Rosa 170 Archana Chauhan and Neena Chauhan Wedge Grafting a New Method of Mango Propagation Neena Chauhan and V K Joshi

182

Carnation cv. ‘Master’ Response to Fertilization Arvinder Singh, Nomita Laishram, B.P. Sharma, Y.C. Gupta, B.S. Dilta and S.K. Bhardwaj

185

Persistence and Metabolic Degradation of Imidacloprid in Sandy Loam Soil Romila Akoijam and Balwinder Singh

190

Effect of Different Sources and Levels of Phosphorus With and Without Psb on Yield and Economics of Isabgol V.B. Mor, J.J. Patel, A.M. Patel, K.G.Vyas, P.K. Bhatt, C.H. Raval and B.L. Yadav

193

Storage Root Number and Nitrogen Fertigation Enhances Clonal Multiplication of Alstroemeria cv. ‘Pluto’ Arvinder Singh, I.T. Nazki and Z.A. Qadri

197

Soil Bacteria as Protease Producer and Genomic Library Construction of Protease Gene Amandeep Kaur, Seema Ahuja and Geetika Sharma

203

Enhancement of Indoor Environment through Interiorscaping B. S. Dilta, Suman Thapa, B. P. Sharma and Narender Negi

206

Relationship to Fluoride Content with Various Parameters of Ground Waters in Nawan Tehsil (Nagaur) Rajasthan 210 R. Anwala, V. Bhunwal, I.J. Gulati Concept of High Density Planting in Fruit Crops Wineet Chawla, Tamasi Koley and S. S .Bal

222

Studies on Integrated Nutrient Management in Soybean (Glycine max L). 235 D. Sridevi, Syed Ahmad Hussain, M. Yakadri, and A.Vijaya Gopal Phytoremediation Potential of Brassica Juncea L.Cultivars Surbhi Sharma and Shanti S.Sharma

238

Effect of Organic Fertilizer vs. Biofertilizer on Biochemical Parameters of Bread Wheat. [Triticum aestivum L.] 244 Kowsar Jan, Aabid M. Rather and M.V. Boswal Optimisation of Agronomic Management Practices towards Exploration of the Possibility of Growing Jute Seed Crop in the Northern Humid Part of West Bengal P. Poddar & H. Das

248

Pushkarmool: a Potential Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Harpal Singh, Bhupender Dutt and Chanderlekha Sharma

256

Challenges and Approaches to Development of Sustainable Agriculture in India R. K. Mahajan

261

Agricultural Economy of Punjab: Growth to Crisis Sukhpal Singh, H S Kingra, Sangeet and Shruti Bhogal

269

A Study on Co2 Emission in Relation to Agricultural Growth and Food Security in India G.S. Mahadevaiah, Gunjan Bhandari and Gourav Kumar Vani

271

Crop Productivity, Diversification and Sustainability Sukhpreet Singh, Ram Sharn and Meenakshi Mohinia

274

Assessment of Extent of Entrepreneurial Success among the Protected Agriculture Entrepreneurs. Gondkar Sachin Sopan, B.K. Singh & R.S.Hudda

279

An Economic Analysis of Happy Seeder Technology for Paddy Straw Management G. S. Romana, Mandeep Singh and Gurmeet Singh

283

Hydroponics – Most Potential way to Sustainable Agriculture Sandeep Singh, Research Scholar

288

Compatibility Studies on the Development of Finger Millet Flour Based Pasta Amir Gull, P. Kumar and K. Prasad

292

Studies on Physicochemical and Phytochemical Parameters of Spinach Juice Stored with Thermal and Chemical Presevation 295 Gurpreet Kaur, Poonam Aggarwal and Amarjit Kaur Advances in the Production Technology of Phalaenopsis Narender Negi, S. R. Dhiman and B. S. Dilta

299

Harnessing Potentials of Seabuckthorn for Ecological and Economical Development of Cold Deserts of Himachal Pradesh 301 H.P Sankhyan Rajan Bawa and D.P Sharma Development and Conservation of Bamboo Resources for Environmental Sustainability in Himachal Pradesh H.P Sankhyan and N.B Singh

306

Role of Floriculture in Sustainable Development of Socio-economic Status of Indian Farmers Tamasi Koley, Arvind Kumar Verma, Wineet Chawla

310

Spatial Temporal Variation in Agricultural Productivity in Punjab Imrozpreet Singh, Maninder Kaur, Ram Sharn

316

Rural Tourism: Tool for Environment Conservation and Management Arminder Singh

328

Comparative Study of Physical Properties of Ambient and Cryoground Coriander Powder Sakshi, S. Balasubramanian, B. S. Khatkar

338

Some Problems Concerning Sustainability of Agriculure Balwinder Singh Brar

341

Abstracts 345

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” AO-I

Advances in Plant Breeding and Prospects for the Future 1

RK Gumber1 and RS Gill2 Additional Director Research, 2Plant Breeder, PAU

During the last 50 years, significant improvement has been achieved in the production and productivity of all major crops including cereals, legumes, and oilseeds. This progress was mainly achieved through conventional breeding, utilizing important genes for yield contributing traits such as the dwarfing genes in wheat and rice, which led to the so-called green revolution (Reynolds and Borlaug 2006). The successful development and utilization of maize hybrids beginning in about 1930 was another landmark in crop breeding which gave idea about the exploitation of heterosis being presently used in several crops. Hybrid maize has made significant contribution to increased maize productivity during 20th century both in developed and developing countries. The average yield advantage of hybrids versus cultivars is approximately 15%. Spectacular enhancement of inherent potential of crops in the form of unexpected levels of agricultural production belied the predictions of famous British economist ‘Thomas Malthus’ who prophesised in 1798 that ‘the power of the population is infinitely greater than the power of the earth to produce subsistence for man. The world witnessed a massive increase in the productivity levels of all the major crops especially in the 20th century. The yield levels have been in general doubled , though even five to six fold increases have been witnessed during last half of a century. The plant breeding became the centre stage of this transformation in the form of enhanced inherent potential of crop plants (Chahal and Gosal 2002). The coordinated efforts of plant breeding and crop management technology was able to meet man’s basic need for food so effectively that less than 5 per cent of our people can produce food for all of us that has freed rest of us to develop the culture and way of life that prevails today (Burton 1981). However, the world’s capacity to sustain favorable food production -population balance has again come under spotlight in view of continued population growth and drastic slowdown in growth of cereal production. The population growth curve is maintaining its trend and 9th doubling is expected to end up with 8 billion people by 2020. Nobel Laureate Norman Borlaug believed that the average yields of corps need to be increased by 50 percent by 2025 if food demands are to be met. At the global level, the rate of yield growth for most crops has been decelerating in the past few decades, while still increasing in absolute terms (FAO production year book 2012). Rice production increased at the rate of about 2% during 1970s, and during 1980s and at 1.1% during 1990’s but during the first three years of this century there has been no increase (Khush 2006). In an assessment of genetic gains for grain yield in CIMMYT spring bread wheat across international environments by Sharma et al (2012) across 919 environments in 69 countries, mean yields of the five highest yielding entries showed an annual gain of 27.8 kg ha−1 (0.65%) compared to Attila a widely grown international check. To meet with the demands of burgeoning population the agriculture production needs to be enhanced not only at a higher rate but also in higher magnitude than what already been achieved in the past. The production and productivity of several crops further continues to be adversely affected due to various biotic and abiotic stresses. Plants are attacked by many disease-causing organisms including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and nematodes. These pathogens cause large crop losses and probably since the beginning of agriculture have contributed to human hunger and malnutrition. The control of plant diseases is thus of fundamental importance and is a major objective of plant-breeding programs worldwide. Use of chemicals against pests leads to environmental pollution and health hazards. Therefore, development of cultivars with inbuilt resistance is the most effective, most economical and least hazardous method of pest control. Genetic resistance in plants can be considered a major form of biological control of pest. Resistant cultivars have been used effectively for the control of diseases and insect pests. Multiple disease resistance has been an integral component trait in crop improvement and integrated disease management strategies. The abiotic stresses and climate change are becoming increasingly serious threats to crop production worldwide at a time when staple food supply will need to be significantly higher to meet the demand of the growing human population. It has been estimated that approximately 70% of yield reduction is the direct result of abiotic stresses. Crop breeding for adaptation to abiotic stress–prone environments remains a challenging task because of the complexity of the stress adaptive mechanisms in plants and particularly cereal crops, which are the staple food of most of the world’s population. Limited available water is the single most important factor that reduces global crop yields. Agriculture currently accounts for 70% of the fresh water used by humans, an amount that is expected to increase17 % by 2025 (Molden 2007). The underground aquifers are rapidly being depleted due to excessive water use. Although the perception of .drought .may

1

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” be distinctly different among people, farmers and scientists agree that water shortage is a key limiting factor for crop yields (Passioura 2007). Water deficiency significantly impedes sexual plant reproduction, particularly at the early stages, when development may irreversibly cease although the plant may remain alive (Boyer and Westgate 2004). Ovule abortion or pollen sterility occurs in cereal crops underwater stress and this in turn increases abscisic acid in the plant that may lead to inhibited photosynthesis. . Salinity affects crop yields and pollutes the environment, thereby negatively impacting the economic welfare of nations. There are about 100 countries directly affected by salinity (Rengasamy 2006) with the major impact in those where soil degradation, aridity, and salinization, in part caused by deforesation, prevail. Most of the commonly used food staples are sensitive to salinity. Researchers are assessing halophytes (i.e., salt-tolerant plants), which constitute about 1% of the world’s flora, as potential gene sources to improve salinity tolerance in field crops. Halophytes have evolved a range of adaptation mechanisms to tolerate high salinity. These include adjustment of their internal water relations through ion compartmentation in vacuoles, the accumulation of compatible organic solutes, succulence, and salt-secreting glands and bladders (Flowers et al. 1986). In addition, acid soils constitute about 38% of farmland in Southeast Asia; 31% of Latin America; and 20 % in East Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and North America. Aluminum (Al) toxicity in these soils is the major constraint to crop production. It is the second most important abiotic constaint to world food production after drought. At low pH ( 4.5

< 8.0

8

10

2

14

8.0 – 8.2

11

8

5

12

> 8.2

10

6

3

11

4.0

3

6

2

15

< 1.5

25

18

9

19

1.5 – 3.0

4

5

1

12

> 3.0

-

1

-

6

< 7.2

5

5

3

9

7.2 – 7.6

15

12

5

15

> 7.6

9

7

2

13

< 25

22

12

4

14

25 – 50

2

5

4

7

> 50

5

7

2

16

pH 0.174

EC (dS m-1) 0.304**

RSC (me L-1) 0.461**

pHc -0.012

Adj. SAR

213

0.336**

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future”

Table 4.5 : Fluoride in water and its relation with cations of ground water Chemical characteristics

Fluoride (ppm)

“r”

< 1.5

1.5 – 3.0

3.0 – 4.5

> 4.5

40.0

3

5

2

14

< 0.25

6

5

2

8

0.25 – 0.5

17

11

8

14

> 0.5

6

8

-

15

< 2.0

13

10

2

11

2.0 – 4.0

16

8

7

21

> 4.0

-

6

1

5

2.0

-

6

1

12

Na+ (me L-1) 0.307**

K+ (me L-1) -0.023

Ca++ (me L-1) 0.138

Mg+ (me L-1) 0.281**

Table 4.6 : Fluoride in water and its relation with anions of ground water Chemical characteristics

Fluoride (ppm) < 1.5

“r” 1.5 – 3.0

3.0 – 4.5

> 4.5

Cl- (me L-1) < 10

23

13

5

17

10 – 30

4

5

3

6

> 30

2

6

2

14

< 4.0

12

9

3

8

4.0 – 8.0

17

9

7

18

> 8.0

-

6

-

11

< 2.5

8

6

-

7

2.5 – 5.0

17

8

7

16

> 5.0

4

10

3

14

0.294**

CO3-- + HCO3- (me L-1) 0.332**

SO4-- (me L-1) 0.116

SO42- : Data on distribution of F content under different ranges of SO42- of water indicated that 8, 6 and 7 per cent water samples fall in fluoride category below 1.5, 1.5 – 3.0 and above 4.5 ppm, respectively in the SO42- range below 2.5 me L-1 (Table 4.6), whereas, in SO42- range of 2.5 – 5.0 meL-1, 17, 8, 7 and 16 per cent water samples had fluoride content between below 1.5, 1.5 – 3.0, 3.0 – 4.5 and above 4.5 ppm, respectively. Further in SO42- range of above 5 me L-1, 4, 10, 3 and 14 per cent water samples had fluoride in the range of upto 1.5, 1.5 – 3.0, 3.0 – 4.5 and above 4.5 ppm, respectively. A critical examination of data presented in Table 4.6 and Fig. 4.5c evidently show that a positive but non-significant (r=0.116) relationship existed between fluoride content and SO42- anion of ground water, even when this relationship was factored further at smaller interval of SO42-ranges, it remained non-significant at all the ranges (Fig. 4.6c), however, weakest relationship was noticed at SO42- anion range 2.5 – 5 me L-1. Similar type of attempts have also been made by Singh and Sinsinwar (1975), Gupta et al. (2006) and Nayak et al. (2009a).

214

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” (a) Fluoride and DH Y = 1.408x - 8.0907

9

Y = 0.3128x + 2.5131

9

8

8

7

7 Fluoride (ppm)

Fluoride (ppm)

(b) Fluoride and EC

6 5 4 3 2

6 5 4 3 2 1

1

0

0 7.2

7.4

7.6

7.8

8.0

8.2

8.4

8.6

8.8

0.0

9.0

2.0

4.0

pH

(d) Fluoride and pHc Y = -0.0763x + 3.9078

Y = 0.9604x + 2.1405

8

Fluoride (ppm)

7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 0

10

20

30

40

50

8.0

EC (dS m-1)

(c) Fluoride and RSC 9

6.0

60

70

80

90

100

RSC pHc (e) Fluoride and Adj. SAR Y = 0.0264x + 2.3307

Adj. SAR Fig. 4.1: Relationship between fluoride and pH, EC, RSC, pHc and Adj. SAR of ground water

215

10.0

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” (a) Fluoride and pH

0.317

0.60

0.307

0.30

0.40

0.25 0.20

Correlation coefficient


0.35

(b) Fluoride and EC

0.215

0.15 0.10 0.05 0.00 8.2

0.00 7.6


(a) Fluoride and Na+ cation

y = 0.0346x + 2.5893 R2 = 0.0945**

9 8

y = -0.2237x + 3.4363 R2 = 0.0005

9 8

7

7

6

6

Fluoride (ppm)

Fluoride (ppm)

(b) Fluoride and K+ cation

5 4 3 2

5 4 3 2

1

1

0 0.0

20.0

40.0

60.0

0

80.0

0.0

Na + (me L-1)

8 Fluoride (ppm)

Fluoride (ppm)

6 5 4 3 2

1.0

7 6 5 4 3 2

1

1

0

0 5.0

0.8

1.2

y = 0.624x + 2.3676 R2 = 0.0789**

9

7

0.0

0.6

(d) Fluoride and Ca2+ cation

y = 0.1832x + 2.824 R2 = 0.0191

8

0.4

K+ (me L-1)

(c) Fluoride and Ca2+ cation

9

0.2

0.0

10.0

Ca2+ (me L-1)

2.0 2+

Mg (me L-1)

Fig. 4.3 Relationship between fluoride and cations of irrigation waters

217

4.0

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” (a) Fluoride and Na+ cation

0.50

(b) Fluoride and K+ cation

-0.10 Correlation coefficient


0.40 0.30 0.20

0.103

0.10 0.00 -0.10

40

-0.212

-0.30

-0.030

0.00

0.426**

0.50 -0.099

-0.20

+ Na range (me L )

0.06

0.25 - 0.50

Mg2+ range (me L-1)

Fig. 4.4 Correlation coefficients between fluoride and cations of irrigation water

218


(b) Fluoride and CO32- + HCO3- anion

(a) Fluoride and Cl- anion

9

y = 0.037x + 2.7405

9

R = 0.0865**

8

2

8

R2 = 0.1101**

7 Fluoride (ppm)

7 Fluoride (ppm)

y = 0.2434x + 1.9706

6 5 4 3

6 5 4 3

2

2

1

1

0

0

0.0

0.0

50.0

5.0

10.0

CO32-+ HCO3- (me L-1)

Cl- (me L-1)

(c) Fluoride and SO42- anion

Fig. 4.5 Relationship between fluoride and anions of irrigation waters

219

15.0


(b) Fluoride and CO32- + HCO3- anion

(a) Fluoride and Cl- anion

0.40

0.60

0.30 Correlation coefficient


0.40 0.20

0.021 0.00 30.0

-0.20 -0.40 -0.60

0.363*

0.35

0.401**

0.25 0.20 0.141

0.15 0.10 0.05

-0.008

0.00 -0.05

-0.526*

8

CO32- + HCO3- range (me L-1)

Cl- range (me L-1)

(c) Fluoride and SO42- anion

Fig. 4.6 Correlation coefficients between fluoride and anions of irrigation waters

220


Conclussion

Flouride content had positive and significant relation with EC, RSC, Adj. SAR, Na+, Mg2+, Cl- and CO32- + HCO3- of ground water and they shown marked effect on fluoride content of ground water. The fluoride content in ground water increased with increasing Adj. SAR and RSC indicating that groundwater with high Na+, Adj. SAR and RSC values i.e. mostly alkali waters are likely to have higher F- content in irrigation water. References Ayers, R.S. and Westcot, D.W. (1976). Water quality for agriculture, irrigation and drainage. Paper 29. FAO, Rome, 97p. Dave, R.S. Acharya, D.G., Vediya, S.D. and Machhar, M.T. (2010) Status of fluoride in ground water of several villages of Modasa Tatuka, Nourth Gujrat for drinking purpose. Der Pharmachica, 2(2): 237-240. Gautam, R. Bhardwaj, N. and Saini,Y. (2011). Study of fluoride content in ground water of Nawa tehsil in Nagour,Rajasthan. Journal of Environment Biology, 32(1): 85-89. Grandjean, P. Olsen, J.H.; Jonsen, O.M. and Juel, K. (1992). Cancer incidence and mortality in workers exposed to fluoride. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 84 : 1903-1909. Gupta, S., Banerjee, S., Saha, R., Datta, J.K. and Mondal, N. (2006). Fluoride geochemistry of groundwater in Nalhati-1 block of the Birbhum district, West Bengal, India. Research report Fluoride, 39(4) :318–320. Handa, B.K. (1983). Hydro geochemical zones of India. Proc. Sem. Groundwater Development – A perspective for 2000 AD. Vol. I, JWRS, Roorkeee Uttrakhand, India. Pp. 439 – 50. Khan S. M. M.N. and Ravikumar, A. (2013). Role of Alkalinity for the Release of Fluoride in the Groundwater of Tiruchengode Taluk, Namakkal District, Tamilnadu, India. Chemical Science Transactions, 2(S1) : S302-S308. Nayak, B., Roy, M.M., Das, B., Pal, A., Sengupta, M.K., De, S.P., Chakraborti, D., (2009ª). Health effects of groundwater fluoride contamination. Clinical Toxicology (Phila), 47: 292–295. Ozha, D.D. and Golani, F.M. (2005). Rajasthan mai Bhu-Jal ka vihangavlokan and Sanrakshan ke prabhavi kadam. Bhagirath, July- Dec.; 30-38. Paliwal, K. V. Mehta K.K. and Gandhi, A.P. (1969). Fluorine in irrigation water of Bhilwara district of Rajasthan. Indian Journal of Agriculture Science.1083-87. Short, H.E. G.A. Mc Robort, T.W. Bernard and Mahnadinayed, A. S. (1937). “Endemic fluorosis in in the medves pousidency.” Indian Journal of medical Research, 25: 553-561. Singh, V. and Sinsinwar, P.S. (1975). Note on the toxicity of fluorine in ground water of Bharatpur District of Rajasthan. Indian Journal of Agriculture Science, 45: 495-497.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” CO-XXIII

Concept of High Density Planting in Fruit Crops Wineet Chawla, Tamasi Koley and S. S .Bal Department of Agriculture, Baba Farid College, Deon, Bathinda E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Accommodation of the maximum possible number of the plants per unit area to get the maximum possible profit per unit of the tree volume without impairing the soil fertility status is called High density planting. High density planting were first established in apple in Europe during the 1960s. High density planting may be achieved by different approaches like use of dwarf cultivars, dwarfing rootstocks/ interstocks, use of growth retardants, training/pruning, planting systems and specific management of irrigation. Tree density is one of the most important factors that influence the production of fruit in an orchard particularly in its early years. Many studies with various varieties and rootstocks of fruit crops have shown that increasing tree densities will result in earlier production of fruit crops. At present majority of temperate fruit orchards in Europe, America, Australia, New Zealand, Israel and Japan are under intensive systems of fruit production. In India, HDP technology has been successfully applied in banana, pineapple, papaya and recently in mango, guava and citrus. Presently, the continued decline in the availability of cultivable land, rising energy and land costs together with the mounting demand for horticultural produce, have given thrust to adoption of HDP in horticultural crops. For modelling viable multispecies, high density cropping systems, precise information on root distribution pattern and canopy characteristics such as architecture, vigour, light transmission, shade tolerance as well soil micro flora etc, are needed. Higher values of fruit set was observed in square system whereas fruit drop was more in double hedge row system in guava. Higher fruit yield per plot was recorded in Double hedge row with 20 plants per plots followed by cluster planting (16plants /plot) (Anbu, 2001). An increase in plant density increased the yield per hectare area from 102.4q to 446.5 q/ha in guava (Kundu, 2007).Tatura trellis was found most suitable for rainfed July Elberta peach growing under High density planting systems (Awasthi,2003).

Introduction

Accommodation of the maximum possible number of the plants per unit area to get the maximum possible profit per unit of the tree volume without impairing the soil fertility status is called High density planting (Goswami et al, 2001). High Density planting can be defined as planting fruit trees at a density in excess of that which suffices to give maximum crop yield at maturity if individual tree grows to its full normal size .In other words, it is the planting of more number of plants at a closer spacing to accommodate more number of plants than optimum per unit area. HDP aims to achieve the twin requisites of productivity by maintaining a balance between vegetative and reproductive load without impairing the plant health. The exact limits of plant density to be termed as high density is not yet well defined. It varies with the region, species, variety, rootstock, cost of planting material, labour and the likely return from the orchard, and agro-techniques adopted for a particular crop. Higher density planting system is normally understood as one in which a higher number of plants of the plants of the same fruit species is accommodated within unit land area, in comparison to the conventional planting density. However, it would be more purposeful to orchardists as well as the researchers, if its definition were widened to include the accommodation of even more than one species, so that the maximum potential of a unit land area could be economically utilized for increased production. Thus the high density orchards may be attempted with one species (monospecies, single-tier or single-storied) or with different species (multi-species, multi-tier or multi-storey). Tree density is one of the most important factors that influence the production of fruit in an orchard particularly in its early years. Many studies with various varieties and rootstocks of fruit crops have shown that increasing tree densities will result in earlier production of fruit crops. This is because higher tree densities result in a closed canopy and higher light interception earlier in the life of the orchard when compared with low densities (Kappel and Brownlee 2001, Balkhoven-Baart et al. 2000). Planting densities are classified as follows: viz., Low density, Moderate density, High density or semi intensive system ,Very high density or intensive system, Ultra high density or Super high density planting super intensive system.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Table 1: Comparison between traditional systems & modern systems of fruit growing Attribute

Traditional System

Modern system

Tree number

Few large trees/ha (150-200 trees/ha)

Many small trees/ha (500-1, 00,000 trees/ha).

Bearing

Late in bearing, usual time required 6-8 years or more.

Precocious in bearing, usual time required 2-3 years.

Production

Overall production per ha is low.

Increased overall production per ha.

Management

Difficult to manage due to large size of trees.

Easy to manage due to small size of trees.

Establishment cost

Low Cost.

Higher Cost.

Harvesting

Difficult (manual).

Easy (machine).

Table 2: Planting distance and density of various fruit crops

Spacing (m)

Tree (number/ha)

Fruit crops planted

2x2

2500

Dwarf Papaya, Dwarf Banana

3x3

1111

Tall Papaya, Tall Banana

5x5

400

Mango, Sapota, Fig, Pomegranate

6x6

277

Guava, Mulberry

7x7

204

Peach, Plum

8x8

156

Aonla, Ber, Litchi

9x9

121

Sapota

10 x 10

100

Mango, Sapota,Datepalm

12 x 12

68

Sapota, Jamun, Tamarind

Advantages

The HDP has certain definite advantages compared to the conventional low density planting. 1. 2. 3.

4. 5.

It facilitates better utilization of incident solar radiation and increase in bearing surface per unit land area. High Density orchards have better amenability to modern, input saving horticultural techniques such as drip irrigation, mechanical harvest etc. The use of dwarf trees and checking of excessive vegetative growth gives higher productivity and harvest index as well as early economic returns, through reduced competition between economic parts and alternate sinks such as supporting structures and through a reduction in the distance the assimilates have to be translocated from source to sink. High Density Planting system is more amenable to horticultural operations such as pruning and plant protection measures, which reduces the labour cost involved in addition to the increased effectiveness of these operations. Easy harvesting of fruits from such trees with lesser injury results in better post-harvest life Better fruit quality due to optimum exposure to sunlight is an added advantage of High Density Planting.

Limitations of HDP 1. 2. 3.

High Density Planting needs higher establishment cost. Need for a more professional and scientific approach for management, compared to the conventional planting at wider spacing. Crowding in high density plantings can result in restricted access into the orchard, inefficient pest and disease control, increased harvesting costs and loss of production through shading.

Strategies for high density planting 1. 2.

Improved planting systems. Control of tree size.

Improved planting systems

This means that the planting system needs to have a combination of components that ensures optimal light interception and distribution from an early stage. The planting system is the integration of tree arrangement, planting density, support systems and training schemes. There is no one planting system to suit all situations. Factors such as climate, soil, variety,

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” rootstock, quality of nursery trees, management regimes and economic conditions will determine the optimal combination for each orchard. The various planting systems adopted in fruit crops are square, triangular, quincunx, rectangular, hexagonal, hedgerow and cluster planting. Out of these, triangular and square systems are followed for HDP of mango, kinnow, banana, papaya and hedge row for apple and pineapple.

Square System - - - - - - - - - - - -

This system is most common for planting of mango orchards. In this system, the distance from plant to plant and row to row remains the same. The four adjacent plants of two rows form a square. It is easy to layout and permits cross cultivation. The only defect in this system is presence of small vacant space in the centre till the plants grow up sufficiently. For actual layout in the field, one boundary line is chosen and along with this line a base line is fixed. Then first line is made at the half of the proposed distance parallel to the base line. Constructing a right angle triangle in a ratio of 3:4:5 draws a second line. The lines of trees are drawn perpendicular to the base line. It is so fixed that the lines meeting it are parallel to the field. Now the position of trees on base line is marked with pegs. From these pegs perpendicular lines, should be marked with the help of cross bars. The plant positions can best be marked on all the four sides and finally in the field by running strings length and breadth wise and by putting pegs at the crosses.

Rectangle System - - - - -

This system is a modification of square system. It is adopted for planting of those fruit trees which require less distance between plant to plant than row to row distance. It has almost all the advantages of square system but cultivation between plant to plant is difficult. In field condition it is drawn in similar fashion as the square system except that the distance between plant to plant is difficult. In field condition it is drawn in similar fashion as the square system except that the distance between plant to plant is less than row to row.

Quincunx or Diagonal System - - - - - - -

This system of planting is exactly similar to the square system except that an additional sapling is planted at the centre of square at intersecting point of the diagonals of the square formed by four adjacent plants. This system accommodates about 10% more plants than the square. The additional plant at centre is temporary and termed as filler. The fillers are precocious and short-lived. They yield some crop before the permanent trees come into bearing. The fillers make cross cultivation difficult. Many times the grower often delays their removal and this adversely affects the performance of permanent plantation.

Triangular or Hexagonal System - - - - - -

This system is based on the principle of equilateral triangle. This layout accommodates approximately 15 per cent more trees per unit area than the square system. It is adopted with the advantage where the maximum use of the land is desired, especially on fertile soils. The cultural operations can be done in three directions in the mango orchards laidout on this system. For actual layout under this system in the field, a base line is fixed in the same way as done in square system. The pegs of the first row are fixed on it at the proposed distance.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” - - - -

While making the second row, the first peg on it is so adjusted that it is equidistant from the two pegs of the previous row. After adjusting two such pegs, a straight line is drawn through these and other pegs are fixed at the proposed distance along it. When second row is complete, the third row is drawn in similar fashion as previous one and so on. Six adjacent plants base are connected which form a hexagon and seventh plant is in centre of the hexagon.

Contour System - - - -

This system of layout is adopted where the mango orchard is established on sloping land of hilly regions. The pegs on each slope are so fixed that each one of them falls in the centre of the slope and makes on a straight line drawn from its bottom to the top. This is easily drawn by putting a string from the highest point to the lowest and locates the positions of the plants along the string. The actual planting is started from lower point towards the upper point.

Meadow or Bed

This system was developed in Israel and tested in Georgia and Florida. Trees are planted at about 45 x 75 cm in the row and 7-9 feet between row resulting in ultra high density plantation of 30,000 to 1, 00,000 trees per hectares. This system is designed to produce fruits on 2-year old plants which are chemically disciplined and regulated to produce a similar and smaller low-height framework rather than the traditional well-branched trees. The meadow orchard system may not be beneficial to those fruits which are difficult to propagate by cuttings because of initial high cost of establishment.In this system, a bed of 10-15 rows is closely planted (30 cm x 45 cm) and separated by alleyways of 2.5 m width between beds. This system is mostly followed in meadow orchards where trees are extremely small-sized.

Diagonal /Quincunx System

This system of planting is similar to square system with the addition of a tree in the centre of each square as filler of intercrop or the same crop. It accommodates about 1.5 to 2 times or (89%) double the number of plants in square system.

Hexagonal System

In hexagonal, triangles are equilateral. Trees are planted at corners of equilateral triangles. Distance from tree to tree in six directions remains the same. It accommodates 15% more trees than square system.

Triangular System

Difficult to layout and not of much practical importance in traditional plantations. It is used in high density planting in Amrapali mango to accommodate 1600 plants per hectare.

Contour System

Used in hills side plantings, trees are adjusted as per available contour. When slope exceeds 10% terraces are made to plant the tree.

Hedge-Row

It is generally followed in high density planting of apple and pineapple. It is followed for mechanized fruit cultivation. Dwarfed fruit trees can be grown in an unsupported hedge-row on semi dwarf or semi-standard rootstocks. The branches touch within a row, presenting a hedge-like appearance. The trees are kept up to 3 metres in height and are sheared in the direction of row on both sides. Number of trees may range from 2,500 to 10,000/ha. Tree walls (row direction) should be north-south so that light is equally available on both sides of the wall. The trees are kept in size by heading back and thinning out branches, but branches are encouraged in the direction of the row, and the hedge or wall of the trees is about 1.25 metres in thickness. So, this system is suitable for mechanized cultivation.

Backyard Orchard Culture

Families today have less space for fruit trees, less time to take care of them and less time to process or preserve large crops than in the past. Accordingly, today’s family orchards should be planned and managed differently. The objective of Backyard Orchard Culture is the prolonged harvest of tree-ripe fruit from a small space. This means planting close together several or many fruit varieties which ripen at different times, and keeping the trees small by summer pruning.

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Tree Size Control

The following methods are applied to control the size of plants in high density planting viz., Use of genetically dwarf scion cultivars, Use of dwarfing rootstocks and interstock,Pruning and training, Use of growth retardants, Induction of viral infection, Regulated deficit irrigation, Controlling root growth for reducing vegetative growth e.g. in peach.

Use of Genetically Dwarf Cultivars

The genetically dwarf cultivars offer a great scope for close planting. Such varieties are limited in number and available only in few crops as given in table 3 Table 3: Dwarf cultivars Crops

Dwarf Cultivars

Mango

Amarpali (Dwarf and Regular Hybrid) (Majumder et al., 1982)

Citrus

Meyer Lemon, Ponderosa Lemon, Kumquat(Bitters et al,1979) Satsuma Mandarin (C. unshiu), Kumquat (Fortunella Spp.), Busy Pummel (C. grandis) or Skaggs Bonanza & Tulegold Navel Oranges In Israel (Golomb, 1988) Kagzi Kalan Lemon (Goswami et al,1999)

Papaya

Pusa Nanha (Bear Regularly), Ranchi Dwarf Other Cultivars-Co-1,Co-2, Pusa Dwarf & Honey Dew-1

Peach

Shan i-Punjab ,Red Heaven, July Elberta

Litchi

Kwai May Pink, Salathiel and Wai Chee (Australia) , Bosworth 3(USA)

Banana

Pusa Cavendish, Robusta,

Sapota

Pkm1, Pkm3

Use of Dwarfing Rootstocks and Interstock

Dwarfing rootstocks are economical, effective and environmentally safe means controlling tree vigour for High density orchards. Rootstocks for high density planting must control tree size, reduce vigour and induce precocity or early fruiting. Many of the modern tree forms for intensive orchards such as slender spindle and vertical axis described earlier are achievable only with help of dwarfing rootstocks. They are classified as dwarfing, semi-dwarf and standard. Seedlings rootstocks are generally vigorous rootstocks. A dwarfing rootstock generally restricts tree height to less than 3m and takes only 2 to 3 years to bear fruit in most cases as opposed to a standard rootstock on which the tree requires 5 to 7 years. Table 4: Dwarfing rootstocks

Crops

Rootstocks

Mango Guava Ber Peach Citrus

Vellaikulumban Aneuploid No.82, Chinese guava(P. friedrichsthalianum) Zizyphus rotundifolia GF677 Sour orange , P. trifoliate, hybrid of Ranpur lime and Troyer citrange , Thomasville,Citrangequat etc

Pear

EM Quince A & C

Pruning

Pruning refers to the removal of any vegetative plant part to regulate the production and maintain the balance between vegetative and reproductive growth. Two types of pruning are employed in orchards: Heading back and Thinning. Most kinds of deciduous fruit trees require pruning to stimulate new fruiting wood, to remove broken and diseased wood, to space the fruiting wood and to allow good air circulation and sunlight penetration in the canopy. Pruning is most important in the first three years, because this is when the shape and size of a fruit tree is established. It is much easier to keep a small tree small than it is to make a large tree small. Pruning at the same time as thinning the crop is strongly recommended. By pruning when there is fruit on the tree, the kind of wood on which the tree sets fruit (one year old wood, two year old wood, spurs, etc.) is apparent, which helps you make better pruning decisions.

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Methods of Pruning Heading back

When only one-third to one-half terminal portions of the branches, having their basal portions intact, are removed. Such pruning encourages development of secondary branches, lateral bud growth and destroys apical dominance of twig, shoot or branch.

Thinning out

When the shoots or branches which are considered undesirable are removed entirely from the base or point of attachment with the main trunk or branches without leaving any stub. It encourages longer growth of the remaining terminals and net result in reduction of laterals. Sometimes this practice is used for the rejuvenation of older trees.

Dehorning

It consists of removal of all the wood after leaving 7-10 cm thick stub all over the tree. Such severe treatmen should normally not be given except when it is the last resort to bring it into control.

Summer Pruning Program for Size Control Characteristics

Trees in high-density planting should have maximum number of fruiting branches and minimum number of structural branches. In head and spread system of central leader, training in apple trees are developed with a central leader surrounded by nearly horizontal fruiting branches (Heincke, 1975). These branches should be so arranged and sized that each branch casts a minimum amount of shade on other branches. To develop favourable characteristics, some rules should be followed. These are: - - - - - -

Prevent upright growth of trees. The height should be one-and-a-half times its diameter at the base. Develop horizontal laterals. Space small laterals along the central leader. Develop and maintain fruiting spurs along entire branch as it develops. Develop rigid, strong, self supporting laterals. Maintain fruiting branches in one position. Develop fruiting spurs along the sides rather than top or bottom of lateral branches. Fruiting spurs on top of a branch become too vigorous. In the lower side of a branch they are weak producing small fruits. Those developed from the side of a branch maintain a good level of vigour and are less subject to sun burn yet well exposed to light for colour and size development.

Training Training systems need to be able to accommodate: - - - -

high, early fruit production good light penetration to all parts of the tree good control of the height and spread of trees easy access to fruit for harvest

Many new training systems have been developed for high density planting such as: Systems derived from Central Leader

There are various systems that use the central leader concept. The major differences between these systems include tree density, height, leader management and whether or not permanent scaffold branches are retained.

Spindle

The spindle system (sometimes referred to as the free spindle or bush spindle) is generally suited to densities up to 2000 trees/ha and has a height of 2-3m. The planting distance is usally 3-5m x 1-2m depending on rootstock vigour. Spindle systems are usually planted using well feathered two year old nursery trees. At planting, the leader is not headed and a number of laterals are selected to form part of the permanent scaffolds in the bottom of the tree. Competing laterals that develop on the leader are removed early. As the leader grows more scaffolds are selected and spaced equally.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Leader dominance is important and if lost will result in a reduced tree canopy. If it becomes too strong, lateral growth and development will be reduced. Spindle systems can be free standing, but mostly utilize some form of support (2-3 wire trellis).

Vertical Axis

The vertical axis is similar to the spindle and it is often hard to distinguish the difference, except that the vertical axis does not have permanent scaffolds. This system suits densities between 1000-2500 trees/ha with a spacing of 4-5m x 1-2m . Height can reach up to 3m. These systems are best planted with well feathered nursery trees. A central leader (axis) is developed with ‘weak’ (small diameter) fruiting branches arising around the leader. The leader is not headed back in the first few years of this system to ensure that weak fruiting branches are developed. These fruiting branches are systematically renewed to prevent them becoming permanent scaffolds. Support of a multi wire trellis is required for these systems.

Slender Spindle

The slender spindle system involves more severe pruning than the vertical axis and is suited to densities of 2000-5000 trees/ha. The planting distance is 3.5m x 1-1.5m and tree height is usually restricted to 2-3m. Well feathered nursery trees are preferred for planting the slender spindle system.

Super Spindle

The super spindle system is utilized for super high density orchards on weaker rootstocks such as Quince C. These systems have densities of greater than 4000 trees/ha. Planting distance is usually (Retrieved on October 13, 2011). Mithal Jiskani, M. (2001). Biofertilizers better source for protection and production of Crops. J. Plant patho., 321-322. pakissan.com Piccolo A, Nardi, S. and Concheri, G. (1992). Structural characteristics of humic substances as related to nitrate uptake and growth regulation in plant systems. Soil Biol. Biochem. 24 : 373-380. Ramesh, P. (2008). Organic farming research in M.P. Organic farming in rain fed agriculture: Central institute for dry land agriculture, Hyderabad. 13-17. Rashid, A. and Rafique, E. (1988). Annual Report. Cooperative Research Programme on Micronutrient Status of Pakistan Soils and its Role in Crop Production. NARC, Sangeetha, M.; Singaram, P. and Devi, U. (2006). Effect of lignite humic acid and fertilizers on the yield of onion and nutrient availability. 18th World Congress of Oil Science. July 9-15, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. Sharif, M.; Khattak, R.A. and Sarir, M.S. (2002). Wheat yield and nutrients accumulation as affected by humic acid and chemical fertilizers. Sarhad J. Agric. 8(3): 323-329. Singer, S.M.; Sawan, O.M.; AbdelMouty, M.M. and Salman, S.R. (1998). Study of the effects of the Delta mixTM and organic matter on growth and productivity of bean plants grown under calcareous soil conditions. Egyptian J of Hortic. 25: 335–47 Tan, K.H. (2003). Humic Matter in Soil and the Environment. Marcel Dekker. New York. Varanini, Z. and R. Pinton (1995). Humic substances and plant nutrition. Prog. Bot. 56:97–117. Welch, R.M. and Grahm, R.D. (2004). Breeding for micronutrients in staple food crops from a human nutrition perspective J. Exp. Bot. 55(396): 353-364. Wisal, M.; Iqbal, M. and Shah, S.M. (1990). Effect of mode of application of Zn and Fe on the yield of wheat (CV. 81). Sarhad J. Agric. 6:615– 618 Wroble, S. (2009). Response of spring wheat to foliar fertilization with boron under reduced boron availability. J. Elementol. 14: 395 -404 Wu, S.C.; Cao, Z.H.; Li, Z.G. and Cheung, K.C. (2005). Effect of biofertilizer containing N-fixer, P and K solubilizers and AM fungi on maize growth: a greenhouse trial. Geoderma. 125: 155-166.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” CO-XXVII

Optimisation of agronomic management practices towards exploration of the possibility of growing jute seed crop in the northern humid part of West Bengal P. Poddar & H. Das Discipline of Agronomy, RRS (TZ), Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Coochbehar-736101, West Bengal, India E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

An experiment was conducted at farm of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya between July 2011 to December 2011 to optimize the most suitable date of sowing, spacing and topping schedule in case of seed production of white jute. Jute cultivar JRC 321 was sown on 25th July, 9th August and 24th August with 45 x 10 cm, 45 x 15 cm and 60 x 15 cm spacing and topping was done at 30 and 45 DAS (days after sowing). First two dates of sowing gave significantly higher seed yield (5.12 and 5.45 q/ha respectively) over third date of sowing (2.05 q/ha). There was significantly higher seed yield (4.42 q/ ha) obtained with 45 x 15 cm spacing. Topping at 45 DAS (4.48 q/ha) gave significantly higher seed yield than topping at 30 DAS (3.94 q/ha). Approximately, a net return of Rs. 7130.00 to 20732.00 per hectare can be achieved from the cultivation of jute (capsularis) for seed crop. Key Words: Jute seed, Spacing, Topping, Yield

Introduction and Backdrop

Among the fibre crops jute (Family: Tiliaceae), known as ‘Golden Fibre of Bengal’, is the second most important commercial fibre yielding cash crop next to cotton. Jute is used extensively in the manufacturing of different types of traditional packaging fabrics, manufacturing hessian, sacking, carpet backing, mats, bags, tarpaulins, ropes and twines. Recently, jute fibres are used in a wide range of diversified products namely decorative fabrics, dresses, soft luggage, footwear, greeting cards, model door panels and other innumerable useful consumer products. About 80 % of jute sticks are used as fuel wood by villagers and 15 % as structural material for rooms as well as fencing. Jute sticks, waste jute fibre or even the dried jute plants and seed plants can be pulped by chemical and chemi-mechanical processes viz. soda, kraft, alkaline sulphite processes etc. for making particle boards, paper sheet, paper boards, paper bags both on a large or rural scale (Nayak and Roy, 2011). Jute leaves contain all vital nutrients needed by the human body. It is a rich source of protein, fat, carbohydrate, calcium, phosphorus and vitamins like A, B and C. (Shitanda and Wanjala, 2006). About 04 million farm families are involved with raw jute farming and an employment to the tune of 10 million paid man-days is generated in this sector (Poddar & Misra, 2006). India exports jute goods to the tune of 166 thousand tons per annum amounting to Rs. 10736 million (average of 2007—2010, Source: Indian Jute, VOL.XXII NO.1, December, 2010). At global level also, a renewed thrust has been given to the improvement of this eco-friendly crop through diversified uses. This crop is environment friendly because of the following facts a) it is an annually renewable energy source with a high biomass production per unit land area b) highly biodegradable products can easily be disposed off without any environmental hazard like synthetics c) Co2 assimilation rate of jute is higher than that of trees & d) Jute mitigates green house effect to some extent as 01 hectare of jute plants can consume about 15 tons of Co2 from the atmosphere and release about 11 tons of O2 in 100 days of jute growing season (Inagaki, 2000). In India, as a fibre crop, it is mainly cultivated in the humid tropical climate mainly under rainfed condition, predominantly by marginal and small farmers of eastern India. The state of West Bengal alone contributes 75.71% of total national area under jute and 82.97% of total Indian jute production (Source: Indian Jute, VOL.XXII NO.1, December, 2010). Non-availability of quality jute seed to the farmers at a lower price and at proper time is one of the major constraints faced by jute community. In India, requirement of certified, foundation and breeder seed of jute are 5000 tons, 62.5 tons and 0.8 tons respectively (Kumar et al., 2010). There is also an imbalance between total seed requirement for fibre production and total seed production in this zone as a result of which seed for this zone is to be imported from other dry states. Fibre and seed are two different crops of jute and climatic requirements for them are also different. Though jute as a fibre crop is grown in Eastern and North Eastern states, at present jute seed crop particularly of olitorius varieties is grown mainly in non- efficient areas of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat where the weather, particularly rainfall and soil is ideal

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for jute seed production and cost of production is less largely due to less weed growth and comparatively less labour wages. Now the prices of seeds from non-fibre producing states are rising and very often jute seeds from non- fibre producing states are not available in time. If fibre producing states together produce some quantity of jute seed, it may arrest steep increase in prices of seed and at least some quantity of good quality jute seed may be available in time.

Materials and Methods

A field experiment was conducted at the farm of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya (26019’86” N latitude, 89023’53” E longitude and at an elevation of 43 meters above mean sea level.), Cooch Behar, West Bengal to optimize the most suitable date of sowing, spacing and topping schedule in case of seed production of capsularis jute (JRC 321). The rainy season in this region starts from 1st week of May and continues up to last week of September having intermittent, drizzling and occasional heavy rainfall. The average rainfall per annum of this zone varies between 2100 to 3300 mm. The maximum rainfall, i.e., about 80% of the total, is received from south-west monsoon during the rainy months of June to September. The soil was sandy loam on texture, having pH of 5.39, medium in organic C (0.58%), low in available N (175.62 kg/ha), medium in available P (14.56 kg/ha) and medium in available K (204.51 kg/ha). The crop was cultivated under rainfed condition with different treatments including recommended package of practices. The three dates of sowing [25th July (D1), 9th August (D2) and 24th August (D3)], three spacing treatments [45 x 10 cm (S1), 45 x 15 cm (S2) and 60 x 15 cm (S3)] and two topping schedules [30 DAS (T1) and 45 DAS (T2)] were laid out in randomized complete block design with splitsplit-plot arrangements and three replications. Date of sowing was assigned to the main plots, spacing to the sub-plots and topping was assigned to the sub-sub-plots having total 18 treatment combinations.

249


Results and Discussion Effect of date of sowing

The analysis of variance (Table: 1 & 1.1) revealed that planting dates influenced different growth parameters significantly. Similar finding was also reported by Guha and Das (1997) & Sarkar and Sinha (2004). Up to 30 DAS, 25th July sown (D1) crop recorded highest plant height (cm), dry matter production/plant (g), leaf area/plant (cm2) and leaf area index but at 60 DAS, 90 DAS and at harvest, sowing on 9th August (D2) out-yielded first date of sowing in terms of all the abovenamed parameters. So far as number of primary branches/plant and number of secondary branches/plant were concerned, 9th August sown crop exhibited the best result. Regarding all the growth parameters, last date of sowing i.e. 24th August (D3) performed significantly worst at all growth stages of jute seed crop. Factually, not only the total rainfall but also the distribution of rainfall during the entire vegetative growth period is of paramount importance in case of jute fibre as well as jute seed production. Better performance of the earlier sown crop (D1) at initial stages of growth may be attributed to the fact that up to 30 DAS, 25th July sown crop received total 546 mm. of rainfall while D2 & D3 received only 260.5 and 367.5 mm rainfall respectively (Table: 2). High rainfall at initial stages promoted luxurious vegetative growth in 25th July sown crop. From 60 DAS, second date of sowing (9th August) started gaining much growth over D1 probably due to the following two reasons. Firstly, high rainfall in the early stage of 25th July sown crop resulted into higher weed infestation and growth which ultimately hampered the crop growth in the later stages. Secondly, as during 31 to 45 DAS, D2 i.e. 9th August sown crop received much higher amount of rainfall (329 mm) in comparison with that received by 25th July sown crop (38.5 mm), a much more favourable soil moisture regime was prevalent leading to the promotion of higher growth in case of D2. Achievement of pronounced growth by D2 over other dates of sowing at 60 DAS ultimately tantamount to better performance in terms of all growth parameters at later stages also like 90 DAS & at harvest. Treatment D3 always gave the worst results because total rainfall received by 24th August sown crop during entire growing period was only 403 mm while D1 and D2 received total rainfall of about 945 and 624.5 mm respectively. On account of the receipt of a very meagre amount of rainfall (38.5 mm) during first 15 days, 24th August sown crop suffered a lot in terms of growth which could not be compensated during the later stages of the crop. Observations furnished in Table: 3 & 3.1 exhibited that seed yield, stick yield along with different yield parameters like capsules/plant, seeds/capsule and thousand seed weight were statistically influenced by different dates of sowing. Guha and Das (1997) also reported that in case of jute seed production number of capsules/plant, number of seeds/capsule and seed yield were significantly influenced by different dates of sowing. Roy and Mazumdar (1995) reported significant effect of date of sowing on 100 seed weight in case of tossa jute. Similarly, Mishra and Nayak (1997) reported that different sowing dates had significant effect on stick yield of seed crop of jute. It was recorded that 9th August sown crop achieved significantly higher number of capsules/plant, thousand seed weight, seed yield and stick yield. This phenomenon may be attributed to the sound and better crop stand attained by 9th August sown crop at later and final stages of growth as evident from the Table: 1. In case of seed yield, first two dates of sowing were statistically at par. Only, in case of number of seeds per capsule, D3 (sowing on 24th August) performed the best. This might be explained by the fact that as D3 obtained statistically least number of capsules per plant, the size of the capsule was enhanced which might bear more seeds. But in terms of seed yield, stick yield and all the yield parameters except number of seeds per capsule, D3 (24th August) evidenced significantly lower output keeping consonance with its worse performance with regard to all the growth components. Highest harvest index was found in case of D1 followed by D2 & D3. In terms of seed quality, little better results were recorded with the seeds obtained from 25th July sown crop (D1) in comparison with the seeds obtained from D2 and seeds from D3 i.e. sowing on 24th August performed the worst. Highest gross return, net return (Rs.20732.00 ha-1) & B: C ratio (1.76:1) was manifested by D2 closely followed by D1. Treatment D3 recorded the least value and even negative net return.

Effect of spacing

Spacing influenced all growth parameters significantly (Table: 1 & 1.1) except number of primary branches/plant. Highest plant height was recorded from the most wide spacing up to 60 DAS, but at 90 DAS and at harvest a moderate spacing of 45 x 15 cm recorded higher plant height than others. Spacing of 60 x 15 cm performed excellent in terms of dry matter production/plant, leaf area/plant, number of primary branches/plant and number of secondary branches/plant in the final stages of crop growth. Achievement of more vigour by an individual plant in case of wider spacing might explain the result as all the above-mentioned growth parameters were taken, calculated and quantified per individual plant. It was observed in Table: 3 & 3.1 that spacing had no significant effect on the yield components like capsules/plant, seeds/capsule and thousand seed weight. Madakadze et al. (2007) also made similar observation for thousand seed weight. Spacing of 45 x 15 cm gave the best result in terms of capsules/plant and thousand seed weight while spacing of 60 x 15 cm showed the highest number of seeds/capsule. More vigour of plants resulted from widest spacing might enhance the size of the capsules leading

250

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” to more number of seeds/capsule. As the number of capsules per plant and thousand seed weight were maximum with 45 x 15 cm spacing, seed yield was found maximum with this treatment being statistically at par with 60 x 15 cm spacing. As a matter of fact, though widest spacing (spacing of 60 x 15 cm) performed excellent in terms of growth parameters like dry matter production/plant, leaf area/plant, number of primary branches/plant and number of secondary branches/plant in the final stages of crop growth and also in terms of yield component like number of seeds/capsule, yield might not increase up to the highest extent due to less plant population per unit area. But, the difference in seed yield in between S2 and S3 was insignificant (only 0.08/ha). Poorest performance of S1 might be attributed to its worst performance with regard to almost all the growth and yield parameters. S1 (45 x 10 cm spacing) being the closest spacing recorded more stick yield probably due to more plant population per unit area. Stick yield gradually decreased with wider spacing in a significant manner because of difference in plant population per unit area. Similar finding was also reported by Mishra and Nayak (1997). Seeds obtained from S2 recorded more germination percentage followed by S3 & S1. In the laboratory studies on seedling length, seeds from S1 & in the field studies, seeds from S3 performed better. Seedling dry matter production at laboratory study and SVI were recorded best with S2. Highest gross return, net return (Rs.9608.00 ha-1) & B: C ratio (1.35:1) was manifested by S2 i.e. 45 cm x 15 cm.

Effect of topping

From the data (Table: 1& 1.1) it was observed that different topping schedules had significant effects on the growth parameters like plant height at 90 DAS and at harvest; dry matter production/plant at 60 DAS, 90 DAS and at harvest; leaf area/plant at 60 DAS and 90 DAS, leaf area index at 90 DAS and number of primary as well as secondary branches/plant. Actually, topping management practices did not influence the growth parameters at early stage of crop growth because first topping was done after 30 days of sowing. Earlier topping i.e. topping at 30 DAS had harmful effect on plant height throughout the crop growing stage and also dry matter accumulation/plant at initial growth stage but rendered beneficial effect in terms of other growth parameters like dry matter production/plant at 60 DAS, 90 DAS and at harvest; leaf area/ plant and leaf area index at 30 DAS, 60 DAS and 90 DAS and number of secondary branches/plant. This is because of the fact that in T1, early removal of apical portion of the plant checked the vertical growth from early growing stage. Naturally, branching started earlier in case of earlier topping and the primary branches remained in vegetative stage for long time leading to the formation of more number of secondary branches. In early topping, as duration of branching was higher, an individual plant attained more vigour. On the contrary, topping at 45 DAS exhibited higher number of primary branches/plant. Dey et al. (1998) and More et al. (2005) reported almost similar results with some of the growth parameters considered in the present experimentation. It was furnished in Table: 3 & 3.1 that thousand seed weight, seed yield as well as stick yield were significantly influenced by topping management practices, but topping had no significant effect on the yield components like capsules/plant and seeds/capsule. More et al. (2005) and Sarkar and Sinha (2004) observed that thousand seed weight of jute was found higher with topping at 45 DAS. Topping at 45 DAS exhibited superior performance with regard to all the yield parameters like number of capsules/plant, seeds/capsule and thousand seed weight. Topping at 30 DAS promoted much vegetative growth but better reproductive growth was obtained with topping at 45 DAS. More number of primary branches in T2 resulted into more number of capsules/plant. Due to the combined effect of higher number of primary branches/plant, number of capsules/plant, seeds/capsule and test weight topping at 45 DAS gave 12.05 % higher seed yield of jute than topping at 30 DAS. Almost similar result was found in the experiment conducted in Kendrapara (2008) as per AINPJAF Annual Report (2009-10). On the contrary, stick yield was significantly more when topping was done at 30 DAS. Attainment of higher vigour by the plants receiving the treatment topping at 30 DAS might lead to such result. Though not significant, seeds obtained from treatment T1 recorded slightly higher value for germination %, seedling root length, shoot length, total length of seedling and seedling dry matter at laboratory condition as well as SVI. But while studied under field condition, seeds from T2 performed better. It was also noted that higher gross return, net return (Rs.9764.00 ha-1) and B: C ratio (1.36:1) was achieved by T2 in comparison with T1.

Conclusions: Thus, it may be inferred that through some agronomic management like direct seeding during last week of July to first week of August with 45 x 15 cm spacing and topping at 45 DAS, jute (capsularis) seed production can be taken up profitably in terai region of North Bengal and jute farmers will definitely be benefited upon getting good quality seed at proper time and at moderate price. Approximately, a net return of Rs. 7130.00 to 20732.00 per hectare can be achieved from the cultivation of jute (capsularis) for seed crop.

251

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Table: 1 ANOVA of effect of date of sowing (D), spacing (S) and topping management (T) practices for the growth attributes of jute seed crop Sou- df rce

Plant height 30 DAS

60 90 DAS DAS

Harv- 30 60 est DAS DAS

90 Harv- 30 60 90 30 DAS est DAS DAS DAS DAS

Prim- Secon60 90 dary DAS DAS ary

D

2

***

***

***

***

***

***

***

***

***

***

***

***

***

***

***

***

S

2

*

***

***

***

***

***

***

**

***

***

***

***

***

***

NS

**

Dx S

4

NS

**

***

*

***

*

*

*

***

NS

***

***

***

***

NS

NS

T

1

NS

NS

***

***

NS

***

**

*

NS

*

***

NS

NS

**

***

***

Dx T

2

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

***

**

NS

NS

*

NS

NS

NS

NS

***

*

Sx T

2

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

**

NS

NS

**

*

NS

***

NS

NS

NS

NS

Dx Sx T

4

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

**

NS

NS

NS

*

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

* Significant at P= 0.05,

Dry matter production/plant Leaf area/plant

** Significant at P= 0.01,

Leaf area index

Branches/plant

*** Significant at P= 0.001, NS: Non significant at P≤ 0.05

Table: 1.1 Effect of date of sowing, spacing and topping management practices on the growth attributes of jute seed crop Variable / Treatment

Plant height (cm) 30 DAS

Dry matter production/plant (g)

Leaf area/plant (cm2)

Leaf area index

Branches/plant

60 DAS

90 DAS

Harvest

30 DAS

60 DAS

90 DAS

Harvest

30 DAS

60 DAS

90 DAS

30 DAS

60 DAS

90 DAS

Primary

Secondary

Date of sowing D1 (25.07.11)

63.03 a

137.81 b

165.28 a

168.53 b

1.51 a

14.50 b

38.53 b

39.11 b

204.23 a

2520.99 b

1492.75 b

0.318 a

3.939 b

2.338 b

10.33 a

6.73 b

D2 (09.08.11)

61.91 a

165.00 a

167.61 a

172.93 a

1.48 a

36.98 a

52.55 a

52.59 a

179.46 b

4118.04 a

1568.94 a

0.292 b

6.495 a

2.445 a

10.99 a

12.12 a

D3 (24.08.11)

47.58 b

104.23 c

110.04 b

115.63 c

0.89 b

9.08 c

20.22 c

30.99 c

141.94 c

1504.19 c

392.00 c

0.224 c

2.371 c

0.607 c

7.76 b

6.20 b

MSD (P=0.05)

3.12

5.60

3.12

4.22

0.05

2.13

3.50

3.16

5.62

231.40

71.87

0.009

0.434

0.104

1.18

1.79

S1 (45 x 10 cm)

55.30 b

126.11 b

141.72 b

145.31 b

1.17 b

16.29 b

33.69 b

38.08 b

164.72 b

2435.28 b

1013.83 c

0.366 a

5.412 a

2.253 a

8.98 a

6.84 b

S2 (45 x 15 cm)

57.93 ab

139.13 a

152.03 a

156.17 a

1.35 a

22.29 a

36.24 b

41.86 a

180.53 a

2837.29 a

1151.55 b

0.267 b

4.203 b

1.706 b

9.98 a

8.91 a

S3 (60 x 15 cm)

59.28 a

141.80 a

149.18 a

155.61 a

1.35 a

21.98 a

41.36 a

42.76 a

180.37 a

2870.65 a

1288.31 a

0.200 c

3.189 c

1.431 c

10.12 a

9.30 a

MSD (P=0.05)

3.12

5.60

3.12

4.22

0.05

2.13

3.50

3.16

5.62

231.40

71.87

0.009

0.434

0.104

NS

1.79

T1 (30 DAS)

57.08 a

133.88 a

145.12 b

149.29 b

1.28 a

21.90 a

38.99 a

42.09 a

176.15 a

2792.57 a

1196.79 a

0.280 a

4.353 a

1.860 a

7.48 b

10.52 a

T2 (45 DAS)

57.93 a

137.48 a

150.17 a

155.44 a

1.30 a

18.47 b

35.20 b

39.71 b

174.27 a

2636.24 b

1105.68 b

0.276 a

4.184 a

1.734 b

11.91 a

6.19 b

MSD (P=0.05)

NS

NS

2.10

2.84

NS

1.43

2.35

2.13

NS

155.53

48.31

NS

0.070

0.79

1.20

Spacing

Topping

NS

Means in a column followed by same letter do not differ significantly at P ≤ 0.05 [Tukey’s Studentized Range (HSD) test] MSD: Minimum Significant Difference

252

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Table: 2 Total rainfall during the period of growth for different planting dates Planting dates

Rainfall (mm)

Duration

Sowing to 15 DAS

16 to 30 DAS

31 to 45 DAS

46 to 60 DAS

61 to 75 DAS

76 to 90 DAS

91 to 105 DAS

106 DAS to harvest

Total

D1(25.07.11)

324.0

222.0

38.5

329.0

20.5

10.0

00.0

1.0

945.0

D2(09.08.11)

222.0

38.5

329.0

20.5

10.0

00.0

1.0

3.5

624.5

D3(24.08.11)

38.5

329.0

20.5

10.0

00

1.0

3.5

0.5

403.0

(days)

128 125 124

Source: Integrated Agromet Advisory Services, UBKV, Cooch behar, West Bengal, personal communication. Table: 3 ANOVA of effect of date of sowing (D), spacing (S) and topping management (T) practices for yield and yield attributes of jute seed crop Source

df

Capsules/plant

Seeds/capsule

Thousand seed weight

Seed yield

Stick yield

D

2

***

***

**

***

***

S

2

NS

NS

NS

*

***

DxS

4

NS

NS

NS

NS

*

T

1

NS

NS

*

**

**

DxT

2

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

SxT

2

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

DxSxT

4

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS



*** Significant at P= 0.001, NS: Non significant at P≤ 0.05

Table: 3.1 Effect of date of sowing, spacing and topping management practices on yield and yield attributes of jute seed crop Variable / Treatment

Capsules/plant

Seeds/capsule

Thousand seed weight (g)

Seed yield (q/ ha)

Stick yield (q/ ha)

D1 (25.07.11)

91.05 b

36.24 b

3.63 b

5.12 a

33.51 b

D2 (09.08.11)

113.43 a

37.11 b

3.82 a

5.45 a

51.40 a

D3 (24.08.11)

66.20 c

39.23 a

3.65 b

2.05 b

23.98 c

MSD (P=0.05)

15.22

1.39

0.13

0.53

3.43

S1 (45 x 10 cm)

82.44 a

37.59 a

3.64 a

3.86 b

45.72 a

S2 (45 x 15 cm)

94.18 a

37.34 a

3.75 a

4.42 a

34.92 b

S3 (60 x 15 cm)

94.07 a

37.64 a

3.72 a

4.34 ab

28.26 c

MSD (P=0.05)

NS

NS

NS

0.53

3.43

T1 (30 DAS)

89.13 a

37.33 a

3.65 b

3.94 b

38.35 a

T2 (45 DAS)

91.33 a

37.72 a

3.75 a

4.48 a

34.24 b

MSD (P=0.05)

NS

NS

0.09

0.36

2.31

Date of sowing

Spacing

Topping

Means in a column followed by same letter do not differ significantly at P ≤ 0.05 [Tukey’s Studentized Range (HSD) test]. MSD: Minimum Significant Difference

253


Table: 4 ANOVA of quality of jute seeds obtained from different dates of sowing (D), different spacing (S) and different topping management (T) practices Source

df

Seedling

Seedling dry matter

At laboratory condition

At field condition

Root length

Shoot length

Total length Root length

Shoot length

Total At laboratory length condition

At field condition

Seedling vigour index

D

2

NS

NS

NS

NS

*

*

**

**

**

S

2

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

DxS

4

NS

NS

NS

NS

*

NS

NS

NS

NS

T

1

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

DxT

2

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

SxT

2

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

DxSxT

4

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS



*** Significant at P=0.001, NS= Non significant at P= 0.05

Table: 4.1 Quality of jute seeds obtained from different dates of sowing (D), different spacing (S) and different topping management (T) practices

Variable / Treatment

Date of sowing D1 (25.07.11) D2 (09.08.11) D3 (24.08.11) MSD (P≤ 0.05) Spacing S1 (45 x 10 cm) S2 (45 x 15 cm) S3 (60 x 15 cm) MSD (P≤ 0.05) Topping T1 (30 DAS) T2 (45 DAS) MSD (P≤ 0.05)

Seedling At laboratory condition

Seedling dry matter At field condition Total At laboratory At field length (cm) condition condition (mg plant-1) (g plant-1)

Seedling vigour index

Root length (cm)

Shoot length (cm)

Total length (cm)

Root length (cm)

Shoot length (cm)

2.78 a

4.41 a

7.18 a

9.92 a

57.94 a

67.86 a

1.717 a

1.273 a

167.22 a

2.71 a

4.29 a

6.99 a

9.54 a

56.22 ab

65.77 ab

1.700 a

1.236 a

165.03 a

2.62 a

4.11 a

6.73 a

9.13 a

53.00 b

62.13 b

1.444 b

1.012 b

139.13 b

NS

NS

NS

NS

4.04

4.62

0.181

0.204

17.61

2.78 a

4.44 a

7.22 a

9.49 a

56.22 a

65.72 a

1.617 a

1.193 a

156.02 a

2.61 a

4.05 a

6.66 a

9.45 a

54.67 a

64.12 a

1.656 a

1.172 a

161.38 a

2.72 a

4.32 a

7.04 a

9.64 a

56.28 a

65.92 a

1.589 a

1.156 a

153.99 a

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

2.77 a

4.28 a

7.05 a

9.31 a

55.48 a

64.79 a

1.630 a

1.173 a

158.71 a

2.63 a

4.26 a

6.89 a

9.75 a

55.96 a

65.72 a

1.611 a

1.174 a

155.55 a

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

NS

Means in a column followed by same letter do not differ significantly at P ≤ 0.05 [Tukey’s Studentized Range (HSD) test]. MSD: Minimum Significant Difference

254

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Table: 5 Effect of date of sowing, spacing and topping management practices on gross return, net return & benefit : cost ratio for jute seed production Variable / Treatment

Gross return (Rs. ha-1)

Net return (Rs. ha-1)

Benefit: cost ratio

D1 (25.07.11)

40773

13385

1.49:1

D2 (09.08.11)

48120

20732

1.76:1

D3 (24.08.11)

19494

-7894

0.71:1

S1 (45 x 10cm)

36876

9488

1.35:1

S2 (45 x 15cm)

36996

9608

1.35:1

S3 (60 x 15cm)

34518

7130

1.26:1

T1 (30 DAS)

35145

7757

1.28:1

T2 (45 DAS)

37152

9764

1.36:1

Date of sowing

Spacing

Topping

References AINPJAF (2009) Annual Report, 2009-10, All India Network Project on Jute and Allied Fibres, Central Research Institute for Jute and Allied Fibres, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal, pp. 67-68. DEY, P., N. C. BANERJEE, S.P. BHATTACHARYA, D. DAS & M. BHATTACHARYYA (1998) Effect of weed management and pruning on jute seed production. Environment and Ecology 16: 1-6. GUHA, B. & K. DAS (1997) Effect of spacing and planting date on seed production of jute (Corchorus capsularis) propagated by vegetative means. Indian Journal of Agronomy 42: 385-387. INAGAKI, H. (2000) Progress on kenaf in Japan. Proceedings of Third annual conference, American Kenaf Society, Texas, USA. INDIAN JUTE (2010) A Bulletin of National Jute Board, Kolkata, West Bengal. Vol. XXII No. 1. KUMAR, D., SAHA, A., BEGUM, T. and CHOUDHURY, H. (2010) Possibility of jute seed production in jute growing states of India. In: Jute and Allied Fibres Production, Utilization and Marketing. Indian Fibre Society, Eastern region. 230 - 234 p. MADAKADZE, R.M., T. KODZANAYI & R. MUGUMWA (2007) Effect of plant spacing and harvesting frequency on Corchorus olitorius leaf and seed yield. African Crop Science Conference Proceedings, African Crop Science Society 8: 279-282. MISHRA, G.C. & S.C. NAYAK (1997) Effect of sowing date and row spacing on seed production of jute (Corchorus species) genotypes with and without clipping. Indian Journal of Agronomy 42: 531-534. MORE, S.R., S.B. RAJMANE, P.P. SURANA, S.S. MEHETRE & V.S. WANI (2005) Effect of sowing dates and topping on seed yield of jute. Annals of Plant Physiology 29: 64-66. NAYAK, L. and ROY, A ( 2011) Utilization of jute by products: A review. Agril. Review 32(1): 63 - 69. PODDAR, P. and MISHRA, A. (2006) Production technology of jute crop with particular reference to North Bengal condition. In: State level workshop-cum-training on jute and allied fibres, UBKV, Coochbehar, West Bengal, 16 – 18 p. ROY, B. & T.K. MAJUMDAR (1995) Effect of sowing date and nitrogen level on seed yield of white jute (Corchorus capsularis) and tossa jute (C. olitorius). Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences 65: 891-893. SARKAR, A. K. & A.C. SINHA (2004) Seed production of tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) as influenced by time of sowing and clipping apical bud under rainfed condition in Terai region of West Bengal. Journal of Interacademicia 8: 21-26. SHITANANDA, D. and WANJALA, N.V. (2006). Effect of different drying methods on the quality of jute (Corchorus olitorius L.). Drying Technology 24: 95 - 98.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” CO-XXVIII

PUSHKARMOOL: A POTENTIAL MEDICINAL AND AROMATIC PLANT Harpal Singh, Bhupender Dutt* and Chanderlekha Sharma* Department of Agriculture, (MA&Ps) Baba Farid College, Deon Bathinda Punjab *Department of Forest Products, Dr YS Parmar UHF Nauni Solan (HP) E-mail: [email protected])

Abstract

Inula racemosa Hook.f. is a perennial medicinal and aromatic plant belonging to family Asteraceae. It is locally known as Pushkarmool and manu. The plant is critically endangered and is distributed in north-western Himalayas. The roots are widely used locally in indigenous medicine as an expectorant and in veterinary medicine as a tonic. The rhizome is sweet, bitter and acrid in taste with a neutral potency and act as antiseptic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and mild diuretic. Due to ruthless extraction and fragile nature it has been extracted very drastically. This little known aromatic plant of Lahul valley is considered a rare species according to the Red Data Book of Indian plants. The species was categorized as critically endangered in the Conservation Assessment and Management Prioritization (CAMP) workshop 1998. In natural habitats, due to ruthless extraction unsystematic collection, the reduction and fragmentation of plant population and habitats is occurring at a rapid and accelerating rate. These factors may result in extinction of species, especially those already with threatened status. Present review article is based on the published literature and personal observations of this potential little known medicinal and aromatic plant.

Introduction

Inula racemosa Hook.f. commonly known as pushkarmool is a perennial herb belonging to family Asteraceae occurs in the North Western Himalayas at an altitude of 2000 to 3200 m and falls under endangered category (Anonymous, 1998). In India it is found in areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The plant is about 1.5 m tall stout herbaceous i.e. non woody but firm structure with radical, 20-45cm x 12-20 cm long, stalked, broad elliptical leaves. The leaves have long petioles and are scabrid above and tomentose beneath. The stem is grooved, rough and very hairy with terminally borne yellow flower heads. Flowers are hermaphrodite, 3-5 cm in diameter and bright yellow in colour and pollinated by bees and flies. Fruits are slender achenes of 0.4 cm long, bearded with 1 cm long pappus hairs. Plant can be propagated through division of roots and seeds. Flowering is from July to August and the seeds ripen from August to October (Chauhan, 1999). Among the 20 species of Inula (Asteraceae) occurring wild in India, five are considered to be of economic value and pushkarmool (Inula racemosa) is one of them because its roots are expectorant, seeds aphrodiac (Sarin, 1996). Pushkarmool has gained prominence as a medicinal and aromatic plant, and is now grown on a small scale in northwestern Himalaya. The domesticated forms of these incipient cultigens have been selected by the natives from the wild types as a traditional crop. At present, its cultivation is restricted to borders of agricultural fields of wheat, barley and buckwheat, in the Lahul valley of Himachal Pradesh. The fragrant aromatic roots of this plant are likely to find a place in natural perfumery materials (Arora et al., 1980). Fresh roots are stout have a strong aromatic odour resembling orris and camphor; dried roots have a weak odour and used in Kashmir as adulterant of Kuth (roots of Saussurea lappa). Fresh root is brown which becomes greyish on drying and resembles camphor in aroma. Roots contain inulin (polydisperse carbohydrate) 10% and an essential oil (1.3%, alantolactone - C15H20O2; m.p.760) (Anonymous, 1959). It is commercially useful herb and paste of roots is effectively used in dressing the wounds and ulcers as the herb possess antiseptic properties also alleviates pain along with oedema. The paste of the roots is specially recommended, to be applied on the chest in pleurisy and inflammatory conditions of pleura, to mitigate the pain (Kaul, 1997). Internally, pushkarmool is used to boost appetite and digestion. Hence it is beneficial in anorexia i.e. loss of appetite and dyspepsia (indigestion). Clinical reports of Inula racemosa confirm its use as hypoglycemic agent (Chaturvedi et al., 1995). Pushkarmool is used as an antispasmodic and diuretic in treatment of hiccough, asthma and bronchitis. Further, the alantolactones present in the root, when used in low concentration of 1:1,000 dilutions, are reported to kill Ascaris within 16 seconds. Standard forms of pushkarmool are not yet known under cultivation, the domesticated type has more sweet odour and higher essential oil content than Kuth roots (Saussurea costus) (Bhavaprakash, 1961).

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Due to fragile nature of its habitat and exploitation due to commercial medicinal properties, the species is facing the onslaught of indiscriminate over exploitation, habitat destruction and competition. Population of the species in the entire North West Himalayan range is witnessing a speedy decline in density and diversity, thus dwindling both in size and number. Unabated as the plant extraction and habitat destruction continues to be, far are not days when these herbal gems will become extinct from globe. It indeed is a crucial situation for this species, calling for salvage of whatever is left and if not rescued now, irretrievable loss of this precious legacy from the globe will be the eventual and inevitable consequence (Wani et al., 2006). The rhizome part is also used in Tibetan medicine and it is said to have a sweet, bitter and acrid taste with a neutral potency. It is used in treatment of contagious fevers that have not fully ripened and pain in upper body, especially between the neck and the shoulders (Tsarong and Tsewang, 1992). Root is the official part of pushkarmool which has at least four sesquiterpene lactones, namely alantolactone, isolantolactone, dihydroalantoctone and dihydroisolantolactone. Sesquiterpene lactones are the chief constituents which possess antiseptic, expectorant and diuretic properties e.g., βetasitosterol, daucosterol and inunolide provide the healing properties. Isolantolactone major sesquiterpene lactones have been found to be active against the human pathogenic fungi especially Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Geotrichum candidum, Candida tropicalis and Candida albicans (Tan et al., 1998). Pushkarmool is used to mitigate Vata-kappa Jawara (a type of fever) as an indigenous medicine. The drug is considered more potent and less pungent in taste. It provides relief for Vata, nausea, swellings breathlessness, and chest pain (Charak, 1941). The root oil is strong purgative and used in stomach troubles, also used as a tonic in veterinary medicine. It is reported to be good for boils, inflammations, cough and ear pain. It is also found beneficial for cardiovascular system, angina and dyspnea (Kashyap, 2009).

Composition of Chyavanaprasha

The drug chyavanaprasha is a mixture of Emblica officinalis, Agele marmelos, Clerodendrum phlomidis, Oroxylum indicum, Gmelina arborea, Stereospermum suaveolens, Sida cordifolia, Desmodium gangeticum, Uraria picta, Teramnus labialis, Piper longum, Tribulus terrestris, Solanum indicum, Solanum xanthocarpum, Pistacia integerrima, Phaseolus trilobus, Phyllanthus niruri, Vitis vinifera, Leptadenia reticulata, Inula racemosa., Aquilaria agallocha, Tinospora cordifolia, Terminalia chebula, Ellettaria cardamomum, Habenaria intermedia, Microstylis walichii, Microstylis museifera, Hedychium spicatum, Cyperus rotundus, Boerhaavia diffusa, Polygonatum verticillatum, Nymphaea alba, Santalum album, Pueraria tuberosa, Adhatoda vasica, Roscoea alpina, Martynia diandra and Sesamum indicum in definite proportions (Jagetia et al., 2004).

Medicinal Properties

The genus Inula (Asteracea) is known for diverse biological activities viz., anticancer, antibacterial, hepatoprotactive, cytotoxic, and anti-inflammatory properties (Ali et al., 1992). Inula racemosa find use in Indian System of Medicine for cardiac asthama cough, pulmonary infections and skin diseases and as aldurant for Saussurea costus (Sarin, 1996). The herb can be used both internally, as well as externally. The roots of Inula species are used for the medicinal purpose. Externally, the paste of its roots is used effectively in dressing the wounds and ulcers as the herb possesses antiseptic property. Inula racemosa has therapeutic benefits in cardiorespiratory and cardiovascular diseases (Patel et al., 1982). In Ayurvedic, Chinese and Mediterranean traditional system of medicine, Inula species are used in angina pain (Zhang and Li, 2009). The herbal formulations of Pushkarmool have shown protective effects in animal models of myocardial necrosis. Ability of Inula racemosa, as β- blockers and antioxidant has generated interest to explore it as a cardioprotective agent (Tripathi et al., 1988). Pushkaramoola is one of the herbs mentioned in all Ayurvedic scriptures (Jamna, 2012). It possesses various synonyms like kasari - an enemy of cough, sulahara - pain killer, svasari- an enemy of breathlessness. The great sage Charaka has categorized it as hikka nigrahana- stops hiccup and he has also cited it as the best medicament for pleurisy along with cough and asthama (Anonymous, 2004). Roots are bitter, acrid, thermogenic, cardiotonic, expectorant, alexipharmic, anodyne, anti-inflammatory, digestive, carminative, aphrodisiac, febrifuge and tonic (Ojha, 2011; Ayurveda Pharmacopeia, 2004). Inula racemosa is the highly praised panacea for cough, hiccup and bronchial sthama. It reconciles the pulmonary functions by abolishing the bronchospasm, relieving the mucous and hence, the obstruction in bronchial asthma. The herb restrains the itching sensation and oozing in the skin diseases and thus facilitates the wound healing. It is pacifying to the brain and helps in strengthening it in mental debility. The herb also accords a stimulant action to genital system in both the sexes. In males it works well as an aphrodisiac and in females, it augments the quantity of menstrual bleeding. Thus, it can be used both, in amenorrhoea as well as dysmenorrhoea. It possesses a mild diuretic property hence,

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” is used with benefit in dysuria (Zawar, 2011; Prajapati, 2004). Medicinally the powdered roots and dried foliage is used as anti-spasmodic, hypotensive and for treatment of cardiovascular and liver troubles. It is used for treatment of respiratory tract disorders, foul ulcers, and chronic bronchitis and as an antiseptic. The roots collected for usage as an aromatic source. The dry are as an insect and pest repellants. Also decreases the blood pressure and stimulates peristaltic movements of intestine (Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants, 2001; Wani et al. , 2006).

Chemical constituents of Inula racemosa and their medicinal properties Chemical Constituents of essential oils

Medicinal Properties

Source (s)

Inulin 10% & roylene 3%

Decreases blood pressure & stimulates peristaltic movements of intestine

Wani et al., 2006

Major constituents Sesquiterpene lactones (Alantolactone & Isoalantolactone ) Sesquiterpenes 60%, aplotaxene 22 % & phenylacetonitrile 2%

Healing properties, cytotoxic activity against the K562 human leukemia cell line, Possesses strong antifungal, anthelmintic and hypolipidemic properties more potent and less toxic than santonin. Alantolactone kills Ascaris in 16 hr; antiseptic, expectorant, diuretic; a ringworm fungicide; and found to be beneficial in histamine induced bronchospasm.

Li, et al 1993; Sharma et al., 2011

Minor-constituents Dihydroalantolactone, Inunolid, alkaloids, tannins and sugars.

Anthelmentic,and hypolipidemic properties; antiseptic, expectorant, diuretic & kills Ascaris in 16 hours, anti-inflammatory in animals to stimulate the immune system

Singh et al., 1980

Traditional use of Inula racemoca reported from different Sources. Plant part

Use

Source(s)

Rhizomes and roots

Used as anthelmintic for children, antiasthmatic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory & diuretic agents and digestive properties in India & Tibetin

Sharma et al., 2006

Pounded roots

Treatment of rheumatism, hypertension, cardiovascular and liver disease respiratory tract disorder, pulmonary infections, skin diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, fever and pain.

Gholap and Kar , 2005; Rawat and Everson, 2011

Seeds

Aphrodisiac

Veterinary medicine

Tonic and stomachic

Flowers

Flowers used as offerings to various deities in religious ceremonies,

Leaves and stems

Leaves and stem fodder and fuelwood

Roots

Extract prepared from roots is frequently used for diarrhea in children and abdominal pain, dosage 0.5-1 ml once in in day in alternate days till cure

Malik, et al., 2011; Liu et al., 2001

References Ali S I, Qaiser, M and Abid R. 1992. Flora of Pakistan - Asteraceae. University of Karachi, Karachi Printing Press 210: 71 p. Anonymous. 2004. CSIR, CCRAS and PLIM, Ayurveda Pharmacopea of India, Controller of publication , Civil lines, Delhi 5:102-103. Anonymous. 1959. Wealth of India. Raw Materials. Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, New Delhi, 236-237. Anonymous. 1998. Threatened Medicinal Plants of Himalaya-a check list. CIMAP, Workshop, Lucknow, 14-16. Arora R K, Maheshwari M L, Chandel K P S and Gupta R. 1980. Mano (Inula racemosa): little known aromatic plant of Lahul valley, India, Economic Botany, 34 (2):175-180. Bhavaprakash N. 1961. Chowkhamba Sanskrit series Publication, Varanasi, 246 p Charak S S. 1941.3rd ed. Narayana Sagar Press, Sagar, 131p. Chaturvedi P, Shukla S, Tripathi P, Charurasia S, Singh S K and Tripathi Y B. 1995.Comparative study of Inula racemosa and Saussurea lappa on the glucose level in albino rats, Ancient Science of Life, 15(1):62-70 Chauhan N S.1999. Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of Himachal Pradesh. Indus Publishing Company, New Delhi, India, 632p Jamna J, Balakrishnan R, Ramakrishnana P, Sarala S and Jolly C I. 2012. Comparative pharmacognostic of Inula racemosa Hook.f and its adulterant Coffea travancorensis Wight & Arn, Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources 3(3):386-394.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Jagetia G C, Rao S K, Baliga M S and Babu K S. 2004. The Evaluation of Nitric Oxide Scavenging Activity of Certain Herbal Formulations in vitro: A Preliminary Study. Phytotherapy Research 18: 561-565 Kashyap A. 2009. Studies on in vitro propagation and conservation of Inula racemosa Hook.f. Ph.D Thesis submitted to Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, H.P. Kaul M K. 1997. Medicinal Plants of Kashmir and Ladakh. Indus Publication Company F-5, Tagore garden, New Delhi. Patel V, Banu N and Ojha J K. 1982. Effect of indigenous drug (Pushkarmula) on experimentally induced myocardial infarction in rats. Act. Nerv. Super., 3(Suppl.), 387-394. Sarin, Y K. 1996. Illustrated Manual of Herbal Drugs used in Ayurveda National Institute of Science Communication (CSIR), Dr. K S. Krishnan Marg. New Delhi-India. Tan R X, Tang H Q, Hu J and Shuai B. 1998. Lignans and sesquiterpene lactones from Artemisia sieversiana and Inula racemosa, Photochemistry, 49:157-161. Tripathi, Y B Tripathi P and Upadhyaya B N. 1988. Assessment of the adrenergic beta-blocking activity of Inula racemosa. J. Ethanopharmacol 23(1):3-9. Tsarong and Tsewang J. 1992. Tibetan Medicinal plants, Tibetan Medical Publications, India, 200p. Wani P A, Ganaie K A, Nawchoo I A and Wafai B A. 2006. Phenological episodes and reproductive strategies of Inula racemosa (Asteraceae)-a critically endangered medicinal herb of North West Himalaya, International Journal of Botany, 2 (4): 388-394. Li Y, Zhang Y and Li L. 2009. Comparison of the therapeutic effects of different compositions of muskone in the treatment of experimental myocardial infact in rats and analgesia in mice, Phytotherap Res.22:1219. Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants. 2001. A handbook Kapoor, K.L.D.(Ed.), CRC Press Boca Raton New York Washington, DC. Zawar S N. 2011. Monograph of few selected plants - Holistic approaches. New India Publishing Agency Pitam Pura, New Delhi-110088 pp 430-431. Prajapati N D, Purohit S S, Sharma A K and Kumar T. 20007. A handbook of Medicinal plants (India) Jodhpur 342002 pp 289. Sharma M, Sharma A, Singh R, and Katiyar KC. 2011. Der Pharmacia Sinica, (USA): PSHIBD 2(6):6-10. Singh N, Nath R, Gupta MC, Kohli RP.1980. Quaterly Journal of crude drug and Research 18:39. Sharma R K, Sharma S and Sharma S S. 2006. Seed germination behavior of some medicinal plants of Lahaul and Spiti cold desert (Himachal Pradesh): implications for conservation and cultivation. Current Science 90(8):11131118. Gholap S and Kar A. 2003. Efficacy of some plant extracts in regulating corticosteroid-induced hyperglycemia in mice. Pharmaceutical Biology 41(5):315-318. Rawat Y S and Everson C S. 2011. Inula racemosa Hook.f: A potential medicinal crop in the cold desert agro-ecosystem of North Western Himalaya, India. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research 5(26):6218-6223.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” DO-I

CHALLENGES AND APPROACHES TO DEVELOPMENT OF SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN INDIA R. K. Mahajan Professor, Deptt. Of Postgraduate Studies, Punjabi University Regional Centre, Bathinda-151001

Introduction

Agriculture is still an important and critical sector of the Indian economy. Though its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country has fallen from about 30 percent in 1990-91 to less than 15 percent in 2013-14, yet agriculture forms the backbone of development. About 50 percent of the work force is engaged in agriculture and on an average Indian still spends almost half of his/her total expenditure on food. Being both a source of livelihood and food security for a vast majority of the population of India, its performance still assumes greater significance. We also know that 8-10 percent growth rate of the economy cannot sustain unless there is at least 4 per cent growth rate of agriculture sector. Though this magic figure has been over emphasized even by our Prime Minister at different forums but nothing concrete has been done to achieve this target. The advent of agrarian crisis and rural distress would have continued unabated, but a spate of farmers’ suicides in different states shocked the nation. Infact farmer suicide is not the crisis, it is the outcome of the (agrarian) crisis (Sainath, 2012). The PM Prof. Manmohan Singh, who was reluctant to admit any crisis in agriculture until 2005, has to visit Vidherbha area of Maharashtra to endorse the agrarian crisis which was manifested by peasant suicides. However, the adhoc and populist measures were taken to quell the agrarian crisis i.e. loan waiver, interest relief, food security bill etc., but no elaborate policy framework and action plan prepared by the govt. to improve the crisis ridden agriculture. The new economic reforms elaborated the development policies concerning industry and trade. There is no specific policy provision made for the development of agricultural sector. The WTO exposed the agricultural sector, but nothing has been done to adequately protect agriculture from global competition. The agricultural sector has been badly affected by declining public investments, which in turn caused agricultural growth to decelerate significantly. The profit margin in agriculture has also declined in agriculture. All these factors cause a severe crisis in agriculture. Therefore, there is need to discuss some of the challenges faced to Indian agriculture and suggest ways to the development of sustainable of agriculture.

Critical Challenges Facing Indian Agriculture

A critical assessment of agricultural transformation in India reveals that the benefits of the Green Revolution (GR) did not reach millions of small farmers. Moreover, agricultural growth in regions that adopted GR practices has become saturated with stagnant yields. There are also the problems of depletion and degradation of natural resources as well as intensive use of energy, fertilisers and pesticides. There are also challenges of dwindling institutional support and trade reforms to Indian agriculture. There are also biotechnology and environment challenges. All these challenges cause agrarian crisis. There is disagreement of causes of agrarian crisis amongst economists. However, it is generally regarded that agrarian crisis are policy driven.

Capital Formation in Agriculture

Sustainable rate of growth of agriculture depends upon perpetuated investment. Higher level of investment in agriculture sector is essential for capital formation to generate agriculture growth. Since agriculture is important for the development of the economy, the growth of that sector should be ensured for Indi’s overall economic growth. On the other hand, there is an insufficiency in the capital in India. However, the trend shows that there has been declining public sector capital formation for the development of agriculture since 1980s. The declining trend of capital formation as a percentage of total capital formation is shown in the diagram.

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Per cent Share of Agriculture & Allied Sector in Total Gross Capital Formation

Note: All the figures are at 2004-05 prices. Source: CSO.

The perusal of the diagram shows that the share of capital formation in agriculture to gross capital formation on 2003-4 prices declined significantly from 18.4 percent in 1980-1 to 14.4 percent in 1990-91 which further decreased to 7.7 percent in 2009-10. This has also a significant effect on the decrease in private investment in agriculture.

Price Policy and Unviable Agriculture

The cost of production per unit has also been increasing. As a result, the revenue has been falling or stagnant. The neoliberal policies advocate reduced subsidies on fertilizer and diesel, reduction of public expenditure on infrastructure, opening up of the import and export of agricultural crops, increase in the cost of electricity, etc. However, the technology and land fatigue is noticed as the average growth rate of production of wheat, rice and foodgrains during 1990-2010 has been coming down to 2.6 per cent, 1.4 per cent and 1.6 per cent, respectively. This was due to stagnancy in yield of wheat, rice and foodgrains which grew at an average rate of 1.7 per cent, 1.2 per cent and 1.6 per cent, respectively, during the same period. Moreover, the average growth rate of foodgrains production at 1.6 per cent during 1990-2010 trailed the average population growth of 1.9 per cent (Table-1). It has been observed that the yield per unit of land is continuously decreasing. On the other hand, in order to maintain the productivity of land, more quantities of the inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides, irrigation etc. have to be used. Moreover, the cost of inputs has been rising since 1991 which results into the cost of production of important crops. The comparatively fast wave of farmers’ suicide has been noticed in the areas which grow cotton crop. The cotton crop has the distinct features as compared to other foodgrain crops. Production of cotton requires large capital outlays, large in comparison to typical earnings of farmer households. There are out-of-pocket expenses for the purchase of most of the inputs. GM cotton seeds need to be bought from the market every year (because of restrictions put in place by the MNCs selling the seeds and for maintain the productivity); large quantities of fertilizers and pesticides are also needed (whose prices are increasing because of reduction of subsidies). Therefore, the cost of production has been continuously rising. Most of the time, these costs could only be met with credit. The credit was provided by the same agency (often a branch of some MNC like Monsanto) that sold the seeds, the fertilizer and the pesticide, along with the knowledge that was required to carry out the cultivation. Table-2 shows the comparative statement of cost of production, prices recommended by state government and MSP fixed by central government of India for the major crops e.g. wheat, paddy and cotton. The perusal of Table-2 shows that cost of production of various crops has been continuously rising since 1995-96. However, the support price of these crops has not been rising at the same pace. The central government used to fix the MSP much below the cost of production. It has been observed that at the time of harvest of crops, MSP of the crop becomes the market price and most of the farmers have to

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” sell their produce at that price. As a result of this pervasive agricultural price policy, there is downward bias in crop prices, especially for small and marginal farmers who lack storage and transportation facilities and have to pay back the loan to local traders. As a result the revenue accrue to majority of the farmers has been falling or stagnant. Moreover, a crop failure becomes disastrous for the farmers. Unremunerative prices and crop failures make the farmers defaulter of credit. Thus, continuous economic pressure on the farmers forces them to take the extreme step like suicide.

Deceleration in Agricultural Growth

An important feature of present agrarian crisis is the sharp deceleration in agricultural growth because of the agricultural technology fatigue, inefficiency in inputs use and increase in input costs. The Planning Commission’s document The Agricultural Strategy for the Eleventh Plan shows that the agricultural GDP growth declined from 3.62 percent during 1984-85 to 1995-96 to 1.85 percent during 1995-96 to 2004-05. Even in Punjab, average of annual growth rate of agriculture was 2.5 percent per annum during 1995-2000, 1.8 percent during 2001-2005 and remained the same i.e. 1.8 percent during 2006-2012. Due to stagnation of foodgrains production in India, the per capita annual production of cereals has declined from 192 kg in 1991-95 to 174 kg in 2004-07 and pulses from 15 kg to 12 kg.

Research, Extension, Technology Fatigue

Research, extension and technology are three main things which make agriculture more scientific and increase in productivity. The yield for many crops declined in the 1990s. This is mainly due to technology fatigue. The National Commission on Farmers indicates that there is a large knowledge gap between the yields in research stations and actual yields in farmers’ fields; the yield gaps given by the Planning Commission range from 5 to 300 percent depending on the crop and the state. There is challenge of public sector research to increasing the resources poor farmers and less privileged areas such as dry lands, hill area etc.

Indebtedness and Suicides

The agrarian crisis is also manifested by growing farmers’ indebtedness and suicides. The NSS 59th round Survey on Indebtedness of Farmer Households reported that 48.6 percent of farmer households were indebted. A similar survey in 1991 found only 26 percent of farmer households was indebted. In Punjab, Kerala and Karnataka, the proportion of farmers under debt was nearly two-thirds and in Maharashtra, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal more than half of the farmers surveyed were in debt. This has increased the incidence of suicide amongst the farmers and agricultural labourers. Recently Parliament is informed that a total of 290,740 farmers have committed suicide during 1995-2011 due to various reasons, including bankruptcy or sudden change in economic status and poverty. A government survey conducted in Punjab by three varsities says 5,000 farmers and farm labourers committed suicide in Punjab, which was once a state of plenty, during 2000-2010. About 4,500 deaths occurred in six Malwa districts - Sangrur, Bathinda, Ludhiana, Moga, Barnala and Mansa. Here also the financial crunch that forced these suicides was due to rising agricultural input cost, drug addiction and unsurmountable debts for meeting both farm and household expenditure.

Environmental Challenges in Indian Agriculture

A number of studies conducted by different agencies has shown that the focus of the Indian agriculture planning had been only on maximization of agricultural production. As a result, the environment impact of this planning were either not considered or sacrificed deliberately. However, Chadha et al (2004) in his study found that there was a significant negative relationship between land and water degradation and foodgrain productivity in both 1980s and 1990s. By the early 1980s approximately 53 percent (173.6 million hectares) of India’s geographical area had been considered degraded according to the Ministry of Agriculture (GoI, 2001): Agriculture alone through irrigation has accounted for 83 percent of the total water use in the country during 1990 (Vyas 2003). This has questioned the sustainability of agriculture in India.

Suggestions for Sustainable Development of Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture is a set of farming practices which can continue to maintain the farm productivity, efficiency and profitability in the long run, without depleting the natural resources and the environment. New high-yielding varieties of seeds are really “high responders” rather than high yielder, i.e., with increasing amount of fertilizer and water they respond more efficiently and yield is higher than other varieties. Under poor conditions, i.e., in absence of sufficient water and fertilizer these seeds do not give higher yield compared to traditional crops. It is presumed that high dose of fertilizers cause faster depletion of soil nutrients and in a way we are mining soil, since nutrients are being used much faster than they are being replaced. On the other hand, with the use of organic manures the soil nutrients are maintained for longer periods. We shall now discuss a few measures which can make farm business more sustainable and profitable.

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High Value Crops

There has been a considerable change in both domestic and international demand for agriculture. Therefore, agriculture should not be confined to foodgrain crops, but certain other high value crops are to be grown. On the domestic front, with the rise in per capita income, demand for fruits and vegetables will continue to grow. Estimated income elasticities of demand for fruits at the mean are well above one in rural areas and are much higher in low income households. In case of urban areas, the elasticity is higher than one for fruits in all income groups (Sharma and Jain, 2011). The scenario of the agricultural sector has also changed considerably with the advent of WTO. With the liberalization of trade and providing the market access to agricultural produce, a country will be required to promote much more diversified agriculture. Since India is a producer of traditional crops, it is observed that the share of agricultural exports in total export value declined from about 18.5 percent in 1990-91 to about 10.6 percent in 2009-10, while share of agricultural imports to total national imports increased from 2.8 percent in 1990-91 (pre-reforms period) and reached a high of 8.2 percent in 1998-99 and declined to about 4.4 percent in 2009-10 (GoI, 2010). There is a scope for increase in export of high value crops, provided that the quality and food safety issues are well taken care of. This may be improved by quality control and adhering to the international standard. For the promotion of High Value Crops, gross returns from the fruits and vegetables are much more than the field crop groups. Providing investment grants to farmers, communities and horti-business could help compensate farmers and at the same time, facilitate diversification towards high value crops or horticultural undertakings. As a one time grant, there would be lesser permanent subsidy burden, which would help in containing annual fiscal costs. Hills and mountains, arid & semi-arid regions, and coastal areas do offer opportunities for area expansion under horticultural crops. Rationalization of input subsides, strengthening of market institutions through promotion of vertical coordination between farms and firms, and reinvigorating R & D institutions need focus. A future road map for high-value agriculture development should focus on investment in technology development and dissemination, basic infrastructure, improve the technical capacity of producers and other players in the value chain, institutional support in core functions of production, logistics and marketing through concerted public sector support and active public-private partnerships, and provision of inputs, in particular planting materials for fruits and seeds for vegetables.

Smallholder Agriculture in India: Evolving Perspectives and Policies

Majority of the farmers are characterized by small farm holdings in India. The average farm size is only 1.57 hectares. Around 93 percent of farmers have land holdings smaller than 4 ha and they cultivate nearly 55 percent of the arable land. On the other hand, only 1.6 percent of the farmers have operational land holdings above 10 ha and they utilize 17.4 percent of the total cultivated land. Due to diverse agro-climatic conditions in the country, a large number of agricultural items are produced. Broadly, these can be classified into two groups - foodgrains crops and commercial crops. Therefore, any policy for development in agricultural may have to involve small farmers. Uptill now most of the agricultural development policies and programmes as well as technological and institutional developments have been focusing on planning from macro perspectives without understanding the importance of micro environments and the socioecological systems that shape smallholder livelihoods. There is also need to remove subsidies on unsustainable fertilizers and subsidizing practices that encourage soil and water conservation can help small producers green their own supply chains (agricultural inputs, feed and drip irrigation). Another thing which is compulsory, i.e. investing in the modernization of extension services is essential, including approaches such as farmer field schools (FAO 2008), the use of rural radios and other mobile telecommunication methods (Munyua 2000; Bhavnani et al. 2008).

Biotechnology and Environmental Challenges

There has been widespread propaganda of the multinational companies producing GM seeds for the spread of this technology in the developing country like India. Though empirical literature available shows the economic benefits of growing GM crops, yet reservations are related to actual and perceived environmental and health risks. There has been relatively little bio-safety research on the health and environmental effects of GM crops (UNESCAP, 2009). The problems in the adoption of GM crops are also a matter of serious debate, needing systematic and long-term studies specific to these crops across countries. Dr. Antoniou said: “Research studies show that genetically modified crops have harmful effects on laboratory animals in feeding trials and on the environment during cultivation. They have increased the use of pesticides and have failed to increase yields. Our report concludes that there are safer and more effective alternatives to meeting the world’s food needs.”

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Not surprisingly, many countries do not have strong regulatory systems and rural institutions that facilitate an informed choice of GM crops by resource-poor farmers (Tripp 2009). There is need to thoroughly study the actual and perceived environmental and health risks, intermingled with broader concerns about intellectual property rights and corporate dominance before adopting this technology. The need for well founded research on the social effects of GM crops stems from that some parts of India that adopted Bt cotton when it was introduced in 2001 have been in the throes of an agrarian crisis, even leading to farmers’ suicides.

Technological Change

There has not been a revolutionary change in agricultural technology since 1970s. The yield for many crops declined in the 1990s. The issue of technology fatigue in agriculture is well known. There is a need to shift away from individual crop-oriented research focused essentially on irrigated areas towards research on crops and cropping systems in the dry lands, hills, tribal and other marginal areas. In view of high variability in agro-climatic conditions in such unfavourable areas, research has to become increasingly location-specific with greater participation or interaction with farmers. Private sector participation in agricultural research, extension and marketing is becoming increasingly important especially with the advent of biotechnology and protection being given to intellectual property.

Agro-processing Units in Rural Areas

There is need for agro-processing units started in the rural areas. These units are crucial both in generating productive employment and alleviation of poverty in rural areas. The agro- based industry is regarded as an extended arm of agriculture. The development of the agro based industry can help in stabilising and making agriculture more lucrative and create employment opportunities both at the production and marketing stages. The broad-based development of the agro-products industry in rural areas will add value to agricultural output. It will help in developing rural areas, generate employment, income and alleviate poverty. Table-1: All India Average Annual Growth Rates of Area, Production and Yield of Principal Crops (%)

265

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Table-2: Comparative Statement Of Agricultural Cost/Prices And MSP of Wheat Year

(Rs./Qtls.)

Cost of Production

MSP Recommended by State Govt.

MSP Recommended by CACP

MSP Fixed by Govt. of India

455

440

380

380

CROP-WHEAT 1995-96 1996-97

488

490

405

415+60=475

1997-98

549

600

455

455+55=510

1998-99

612

615

490

550

1999-2000

638

640

550

580

2000-2001

669

675

580

610

2001-2002

687

690

610

620

2002-2003

695

700

620

620 (+10)

2003-2004

697

700

630

630

2004-2005

716

725

640

640

2005-2006

759

760

650

650+50

2006-07

795

800

700

750+100

2007-08

807

950

1000

1000

2008-09

1153

1200

1080

1080

2009-10

1211

1250

1100

1100

2010-11

1218

1275

1120

1120

Comparative Statement Of Agricultural Cost/Prices And MSP Of Paddy Year

Cost of Production

(Rs./Qtls.)

Recommended by State Govt. Recommended By CACP

Fixed by Govt. of India

CROP-PADDY 1996-97

490

C F S.F.

500 520 540

C F S.F.

370 390 410

C F S.F.

380 395 415

1997-98

506

C F S.F.

510 530 550

C F S.F.

415 435 455

GRADE(A)

415 445

1998-99

536

C F S.F.

500 520 540

440 GRADE(A)470

GRADE(A)

440 470

1999-2000

603

C F S.F.

575 600 625

465 GRADE(A)495

GRADE(A)

490 520

2000-01

665

C F S.F.

600 620 650

510 GRADE(A)540

510 GRADE(A) 540

2001-02

706

C F S.F.

620 640 670

520 GRADE(A)550

530 GRADE(A) 560

2002-03

717

C F S.F.

640 660 690

530 GRADE(A)560

530 GRADE(A) 560 (+20)

2003-04

716

C F S.F.

650 670 700

550 GRADE(A)580

550 GRADE(A) 580

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” 2004-05

725

C F S.F.

680 700 730

560 GRADE(A)590

560 GRADE(A) 590

2005-06

746

C F S.F.

700 720 750

560 GRADE(A)600

570 GRADE(A) 600

2006-07

756

C F S.F.

720 750 780

570 GRADE(A)600

620 GRADE(A) 650

2007-08

759

C F S.F.

730 760 790

645 GRADE(A)675 Basmati 1120

GRADE(A)

645+50 675+100

2008-09

1088

C F S.F.

1200 1300 1400

1000 GRADE(A)1050

GRADE(A)

850 880

2009-10

1126

C F S.F.

1250 1350 1450

950 GRADE(A)980

950+50 GRADE(A)980+50

2010-2011

1204

C F S.F.

1300 1400 1500

1000 GRADE(A)1030

1000 GRADE(A)1030

2011-2012

1277

C F S.F.

1350 1450 1550

Comparative Statement Of Agricultural Cost/Prices And MSP of Cotton Year

Cost of Production

(Rs./Qtl. Kapas)

Recommended by State Govt. Recommended By CACP

Fixed by Govt. of India

CROP-COTTON 1996-97

1680

1700

1380

1380

1997-98

1851

1850

1530

1530

1998-99

1993

2000

1650

1650

1999-2000

2253

2200

1750

1775

2000-01

2362

2300

1825

1825

2001-02

2394

2350

1875

1875

2002-03

2446

2400

1875

1875 (+20)

2003-04

2496

2500

1925

1925

2004-05

2619

2650

1960

1960

2005-06

2063

2650

1980

1980

2006-07

1829

2700

1990

1990

2007-08

1965

2700

2030

2030

2008-09

2630

3000

3000

3000

2009-10

2777

3050

3000

3000

2010-11

2547

3100

3000

3000

2011-12

2667

3150

Figures in bracket bonus for drought relief. Source: agriharyana.nic.in/Stat_Info/COST%20AND%20PRICE-I.doc concluded

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CONCLUSION

Agriculture is still an important and critical sector of the Indian economy, but it is passing through the phase of crisis of low productivity, high cost of production and low profit margin. WTO has exposed to the international competition, but Indian agriculture is not in a position to withstand this challenge. Both public and private sector capital formation in agriculture is very low. Moreover, there is predominance of small farmers in Indian agriculture. The question arise how we can change the existing gloomy scenario of Indian agriculture and develop it to make it sustainable and economically viable. It is suggested that the farmers must shift from tradition crops to high value crops. There has been tremendous change in demand for agricultural products in India as well as in foreign countries recently. The government must come out to help the farmers for this type of shift. There is also need to develop technology to involve small farmers so that they remain in this vocation profitably. The corporatization of agriculture is not the solution because it will forcibly make small farmers unemployed. Though GM crops may be economically viable, but there is a number of issues related to health, biodiversity, environment, etc. which are to be settled first. Research and development in the agricultural technology is necessary to bring in cheap technology. There must be development of the agro-based industry which will add value to agricultural output. It will help in developing rural areas, generate employment, income and alleviate poverty. Reference Chadha, G.K., Sen, S., and H.R. Sharma (2004), State of the Indian Farmer: A Millenium Study, Vol. 2: Land Resources, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, New Delhi, India. FAO. 2008b. Farmer Field Schools On Land And Water Management In Africa. Proceedings of an international workshop in Jinja, Uganda, 24-29 April 2006. Rome: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Government of India (2001), India: Nation Action Programme to Combat Desertification, Volume – I. Ministry of Environment and Forests, New Delhi. GoI (2010), “Agricultural Statistics at a Glance 2010 and previous issues”, Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of India, New Delhi. Munyua, H. 2000. Information And Communication Technologies For Rural Development And Food Security: Lessons From Field Experiences In Developing Countries. Rome: Sustainable Development, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Muradian, R., Corbera, E., Pascual, U., Kosoy, N. and May, P. 2010. Reconciling Theory And Practice: An Alternative Conceptual Framework For Understanding Payments For Environmental Services. Ecological Economics 69: 1202-1208. Sainath P. (2012), ‘Farm suicides rise in Maharashtra, State still leads the list’ July 3, The Hindu, http://www.thehindu.com/ opinion/columns/sainath/article3595351.ece (downloaded on 10/2/2013) Sharma, Vijay Paul and Dinesh Jain(2011). ‘High-Value Agriculture in India: Past Trends and Future Prospects’, Indian Institute Of Management Ahmedabad, India, Research and Publications, W.P. No. 2011-07-02 Tripp, Robert (2009). Biotechnology and Agricultural Development: Transgenic Cotton, Rural Institutions and ResourcePoor Farmers. New York: Routledge, Taylor and Francis Group United Nations ESCAP (2009), Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security in the Asia Pacific, http://www.unescap. org/65/documents/Theme-Study/st-escap-2535.pdf Vyas V. S. (2003), India’s Agrarian Structure, Economic Policies and Sustainable Development, Academic Foundation Publishers, New Delhi.

268


DO-II

AGRICULTURAL ECONOMY OF PUNJAB: GROWTH TO CRISIS Sukhpal Singh, H S Kingra, Sangeet and Shruti Bhogal Department of Economics and Sociology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana Keywords: Agriculture, Punjab, crisis, growth. The adoption of new agricultural technology in mid sixties, backed with adequate agricultural policies, catapulted the state of Punjab to the status of being called the ‘grain bowl of India’ as it transformed the state from being food deficit to food surplus. With only 1.5 per cent of geographical area of the country, besides feeding its growing population, the state has been contributing 35-40 per cent of rice and 45-70 per cent wheat to the central pool since last two decades. Based on the secondary data from different research reports the paper is focused on the growth as well as crisis phase of Punjab agriculture. The paper reveals that Punjab state is witnessing an increase in production of various crops as during the last four decades total food grain production increased by more than three and half times, and yields of wheat, paddy and total food grains nearly doubled. The production of wheat increased from 5.62 million tonnes to 17.98 million tonnes; similarly, production of rice increased from 0.92 million tonnes to 10.54 million tonnes, and production of cotton and potato has gone up by 1.57 and 9.47 times, respectively, from 1970-71 to 2011-12 (GoP). However, production of pulses and oilseeds declined drastically over this period and that of sugarcane with some variations remained almost the same. One of the dominant reasons for fall of production of these crops was the drastic decline of area under these crops due to shift to paddy and wheat. Green revolution brought significant changes in the cropping pattern of Punjab. There was a remarkable shift in cropping pattern to mainly wheat and rice from other alternative crops. The increase in wheat cultivation has been at the cost of gram, rapeseed and mustard, while that of rice has been obtained by shifting the area from maize, groundnut, millets and cotton. During 1970-71, about 41 per cent of the gross cropped area (GCA) was under wheat which increased to 44.50 per cent in 2010-11. Rice occupied around 6.87 per cent of the GCA in 1970-71, which increased to 35.75 per cent in 201112. The proportionate area under cotton in 1970-71 was 7 per cent of gross cropped area and increased to 9.34 per cent in 1990-91 but after mid 1990s the area under cotton has been adversely affected due pest attack as its share in GCA went down to 5.97 per cent in 2000-01. With introduction of Bt varieties, area under cotton started increasing and rose to 7.69 per cent in 2007-08, and slightly declined to 6.53 per cent of the GCA in state during 2011-12. The areas under sugarcane and potato have not remained stable; and share of pulses and oilseeds in GCA has recorded a sharp decline from 7.29 and 5.20 per cent in 1970-71 to 0.20 and 0.63 per cent in 2011-12, respectively (GoP). This imbalance in the cropping pattern noted in favour of mainly two main cereals viz. rice and wheat was due to higher relative profitability along with minimum production and marketing risk for these crops. The degree of development can be judged from the level of capitalisation and mechanisation. The capital investment in agriculture has been increasing steadily in response to the rapid adoption of green revolution technology in Punjab. Growth driving factors like number of tubewells, tractors, use of chemicals are rising over the years. The number of tube wells per thousand hectare (ha) has gone up from about 47 in 1970-71 to 333 in 2011-12. Similarly the number of tractors per thousand (ha) in state was only 1.3 in 1970-71, which increased to 72 in 2011-12. The per hectare consumption of chemical fertilizers (NPK) which was merely 37.50 kg in 1970-71 has reached the levels of 246 kg in 2011-12. Consumption of insecticides and pesticides (Technical Grade) has increased from 3200 MT in 1980-81 to 6150 MT in 2011-12. Development of irrigation infrastructure along with large scale mechanization of state agriculture helped in increasing the cropping intensity in the state. The other side of this glorious picture is the one which indicates decline in the overall conducive growth of the state agriculture. Due to ever increasing demands from increasing population of country, the main emphasis of the model of development in Punjab state has remained on increasing the food production with little attention on managing its natural resource base. Unfortunately, in the past two decades, intensive agricultural practices have put tremendous pressure on the soils and resulted in steady decline in its fertility (nutrient availability), both with respect to macro and micronutrients. The crops of paddy and wheat have high nutritional requirements but the most commonly adopted double cropping system (paddy and wheat) has been heavily depleting the nutrient contents of soil. For example, a rice – wheat sequence that yields 7 tons/ha of rice and 5 tons/ha of wheat removes more than 300 kg N, 30 kg P and 300 kg of K per ha from the soil. Even with recommended rate of fertilization in this cropping pattern, a negative balance of primary nutrients still exists (Benbi et al., 2006). Also, the water table is severely depleting due to excessive use for the changed cropping pattern where wheat and paddy are being widely produced.

269

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Among other problems faced by agriculture in Punjab, declining profitability is a major setback. Although, the income of the farmers increased up to mid 1980s, but after that the farm profitability started declining due to higher input costs, constant productivity and declining prices of crops. The real farm income declined which has plunged agriculture in to a crisis of unprecedented scale, the consequences of which are not just economic but multi-dimensional. A large number of proximate and structural factors have pushed farming and farmers towards distress conditions (Singh et al., 2012). Also, due to the declining productivity and returns, Punjab economy faces the problem of labour absorption on small farm land holdings; as a result, the number of small land holders has declined over time. Unlike India, Punjab witnessed a different trend as the number of operational land holdings of marginal and small farmers declined from 3.96 lakh in 1980-81 to 3.87 lakh in 1995-96 to 2.96 lakh in 2000-01 and further to 2.68 lakh in 2005-06. This decline in the number of small holdings is a pointer to the fact that the small holdings are non-viable under modern capital intensive farm technologies. Even holdings up to four hectares in Punjab find it increasingly difficult to maintain their living from the farming activity alone and given an opportunity, will also leave farming. Also, the capacity of agricultural sector to absorb population is declining over a period of time. The total workforce engaged in agriculture as agricultural labourers followed a rising trend up to 1991 but then declined. The estimated figures of workforce engaged in agriculture declined from 24.79 per cent in 1971 to 23.9 per cent in 2011due to unfavourable conditions and non-viability of agriculture (Singh and Bhogal, 2013). Among other hurdles of development, the rural economy of the state is reeling under debt as about 89 per cent of the total farmer households are indebted (Singh et al., 2007). The issue of growing indebtedness has become central and is being associated positively with farmers’ suicides. Various studies exhibit that farmers and agricultural labourers have been committing suicides primarily due to economic hardship and indebtedness. Small and marginal farmers are the main victims, as they are not in a position to eak out their lives with meagre earnings reaped from their tiny size of holdings, which of course are capital intensive. As reported in a study by Singh et al., 2012, about 78 per cent of the total small farmers that committed suicide for being distressed by indebtedness. Though the overall growth, mechanisation, capital investment, use of fertilizers, pesticides, is increasing, the profitability and viability of agriculture for small farmers is declining. The small farmers are committing suicide following the debt crisis. Alongside, other aspects like natural resources and capacity of agriculture to absorb labour which is declining need to be mulled over in order to avoid ambiguous development. References Benbi DK, Nayyar VK and Brar JS, 2006, The Green Revolution in Punjab: Impact on Soil Health, Indian Journal of Fertilizers, 2(4), 57-66. GoP (Govt. Of Punjab): Statistical Abstract of Punjab, various issues. Singh, Sukhpal, Majeet Kaur, H. S. Kingra (2007) “Flow of Funds to Farmers and Indebtedness in Punjab”, Research Report, Punjab States Farmers Commission, Government of Punjab, Department of Economics and Sociology, Punjab Agricultural University. Singh, Sukhpal, Sidhu R. S., Sidhu S. K., Kingra H. S. and Sidhu M. S. (2012), “Farmers’ and agricultural labourers’ suicides due to indebtedness in the Punjab state”, Research Report, Department of Economics and Sociology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. Singh, Sukhpal and Shruti Bhogal (2013) “Changing Pattern of Rural Workforce and Process of Depeasantisation in Punjab” in Proceedings of 55th Annual Conference of Indian Society of Labour Economics at JNU, New Delhi on December 16, 2013.

270

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” DO-III

A STUDY ON CO2 EMISSION IN RELATION TO AGRICULTURAL GROWTH AND FOOD SECURITY IN INDIA G.S. Mahadevaiah1, Gunjan Bhandari2 and Gourav Kumar Vani3 1. Assoc. Prof., 2. & 3. M.Sc. Students. [email protected] Dept. of Agricultural Economics, UAS, Bangalore, (Karnataka)

Abstract

The ongoing development process is continuously adding to the pool of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Increasing CO2 level has been viewed as a mixed blessing for agriculture. Although, it’s exact impact is not known but through global warming it can have a direct bearing on food production. ICAR report said that net agriculture revenue would decline by 12.3 percent if temperature increases by 2 degree Celsius and rainfall decreases by just 7 percent. Keeping this in view, the present study attempts to find out the contribution of the growth in three sectors of Indian economy viz., agriculture, manufacturing and service sectors to increased CO2 emission and study its relation to agricultural GDP and poverty(as a measure of food security). Secondary data for fifty years and simple regression and tabular analysis have been used for this purpose. The findings of the study indicate that the CO2 emissions due to growth in agriculture are not significant but increased CO2 emissions have resulted in increased temperature. In the short run, agricultural production seems to vary directly with CO2 emissions while poverty decreases with increase in agricultural GDP and in CO2 emissions. Key words: CO2, Agriculture, Poverty and Food Security

Introduction

With a population of 1.2 billion growing at a rate of 1.76 percent, food security will continue to remain a major concern for Indian economy. Ensuring food security requires continuous agricultural growth. This is only possible under favourable climatic conditions. It is proven fact worldwide that increase in green house gas emission lead to increase in temperature. Net agriculture revenue would decline by 12.3 percent if temperature changes by 2 degree Celsius and rainfall by just 7 percent according to ICAR report6 (2012). This decline in revenue from agriculture will have cascading effect on 52.8 percent of Indian population which directly and indirectly depend on agriculture as source of livelihood. This will impact the purchasing power and in turn food security status. In this context a study was planned with the following objectives: To study the short term relationship between agriculture and climate change in India To analyze the impact of climate change on food security

Methodology

Present study is based on time series data obtained from World Bank Development Indicators web site5, RBI Hand Book of Indian Economy 20121, Data Portal of Govt. of India4. In order to carry out the study, carbon emission, poverty rate and agricultural GDP were used as proxy for climate change, food security and agriculture respectively. Data was collected on contribution of different sectors in GDP, CO2 emission from India, Poverty status in India, mean annual temperature and population of India for a period of 50 years spanning from 1960-61 to 2010-11. Data on Poverty status (at national poverty line) was only available for the years 1993-94, 2004-05 and 2009-10. Tools used in the analysis are compound annual growth rate (CAGR) 2, percentage, regression analysis3. Regression analysis was performed for following regression equations 1. CO2=b0+b1*AgGDP+b2*ManufGDP+b3*ServiceGDP+

e1

2. AgGDP=b0+b1*C O2+e2 3. Temp= b0+b1*CO2+e3 Co2^: Carbon Emission from India per capita;

AgGDP#: Agricultural GDP per capita of India;

ManufGDP#: Manufacturing GDP per capita of India;

ServiceGDP#: Service Sector GDP per capita of India;

Temp: Mean Annual Temperature of India (degree Celsius). Since, population has effect on all variables in present study and therefore to remove the effect of increase in population it

271

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” is imperative to take the variables per capita. Compound Annual Growth Rates were calculated for Poverty, Co2 emission and share of Agriculture in GDP.  Vn 1/ n  Formula to calculate CAGR is CAGR=  V  − 1 *100   0 

Where Vn: Value in nth year, V0: Value in initial year, n: no. of years from initial to final value. To calculate percentage points change in X per unit percentage change in Y formula used is =

Results

Table No. 1 shows the data on poverty, carbon emission, share of Agriculture in GDP and Agricultural GDP. From CAGR it can be observed that during 16 year period (1993-94 to 2009-10) poverty and share of agriculture in GDP registered negative growth of 2.58 and 2.79 percent per annum. While carbon emission and value of agricultural GDP increased at a rate of 5.41 and 2.72 percent per annum. Table 1: Compound Annual Growth Rates Years

#

Poverty rate@

Carbon Emission ^

Share of Agriculture In GDP@

Ag GDP#

93-94

45.3

864.93

28.27

429.98

04 to 05

37.2

1411.13

18.81

565.423

09 to 10

29.8

2008.82

17.98

660.99

CAGR

-2.58

5.41

-2.78

2.72

(Rs.000’ crore at 2004-05 constant prices) (000’ kt) (%) ^

@

If poverty and share of agriculture continues to decline at their negative CAGR then their values will reduce to half in 27 and 25 years respectively. Carbon emission and agricultural GDP will double in 13 and 26 years if they continue to increase at their CAGR. One percent increase in Carbon emission will reduce poverty rate by 0.1172 percent points. One percent increase in agricultural GDP will reduce poverty rate by 0.2885 percent points. Table No. 2: Results of Regression Analysis CO2

AgGDP

Temp.

Intercept

-527.39* (250.74)

371.46*** (6.11)

24.05*** (0.05)

CO2

-

0.12*** (0.007)

5.07e-07*** (6.04e-08)

AgGDP

1.32 (0.66)

-

-

ManufGDP

4.41*** (1.16)

-

-

ServiceGDP

-0.57 (0.29)

-

-

R2 Adjusted

0.949

0.86

0.5864

F statistic

309.128***

310.4***

70.48***

Significance Codes: 0 ‘***’ 0.001 ‘**’ 0.01 ‘*’

Figures in parenthesis indicate standard error. Results of regression are provided in Table No. 2. In first regression we can find that carbon emission per capita is significantly affected by manufacturing sector GDP per capita while agriculture and service sector does not contribute significantly to carbon emission in India. From second regression it can be observed that carbon emission had positive

272

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” impact on agriculture in India in past 50 years. But it does not mean in future carbon emission will not hurt agriculture sector. It is also clear from third regression that carbon emission per capita has significant impact on temperature increase. Cent percent increase in carbon emission from 2009-10 level will reduce poverty by 11.72 percent points. This implies that increased carbon emission will lead to an increase of approximately 2 degree Celsius in mean annual temperature making it to reach a level of 26.1 degree Celsius. This will reduce net agricultural revenue by 12.3 percent.

Conclusion

From the foregoing analysis, it is evident that though in the short run agriculture sector does not seem to be harmed by increase in Carbon emission but in long run it will lead to decline in food security status by reducing affordability of poor to purchase food items. References Anonymous, 2011-12, Hand book of Indian Economy, published by RBI. Chandra Prasanna, 2009, Projects, Tata McGraw-Hill, New Delhi: chapter. 7.20. Porter. D. C., Gunasekar S., Gujarati D. N., 2011, Basic Econometrics, Tata McGraw-Hill, New Delhi. data.gov.in data.worldbank.org/indicator http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/alarm-bells-at-crop-summit--acute-food-scarcity-in-india-by-2020-/737239/

273

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” DO-IV

CROP PRODUCTIVITY, DIVERSIFICATION AND SUSTAINABILITY Sukhpreet Singh, Ram Sharn and Meenakshi Mohinia

Abstract

More than half of the world’s labour force is engaged in agriculture. Most of the food comes from it and it supplies various raw materials to our industries. If we talk about agriculture in Indian context then also more than three-forth of our population is engaged in agricultural activities. Agriculture sector, world over has experienced a phenomenal growth since the mid 20th century. During the past 40 years, scientists have used biotechnology for genetic crop improvement i.e. for genetic modification. Crop diversification, crop rotation, new genetic varieties of seed, pest and disease control programs, irrigation technology, fertilizers, mechanical equipment has drastically increased the crop production world over which is known as the Green Revolution. It has dramatically increased staple food production in the world. A network of international agricultural research institutions has been established to carry on with this task. Green revolution has been a mixed bag of success for agriculture as it has raised a new set of problems, over use of water and fertilizers, water logging and salinization and excess of fertilizer and pesticide cause pollution of water bodies and contamination of ground water. In such a situation a renewable and lasting alternative is sustainable agriculture that has to emerge for successful agricultural revolution.

Introduction

More than half of the world’s labour force is engaged in agriculture. Most of the food comes from it and it supplies various raw materials to our industries. Now, many of the countries which were once colonies of Europe, especially those in Central America, are still heavily involved in the agricultural production as they were hundreds of years ago. About 45% of the world’s population makes their living through agriculture. The proportion of the population involved in agriculture ranges from about 2% in the United States to about 80% in some parts of Asia and Africa. There are millions of subsistence farmers in the world, those who produce only enough crops to feed their families. Agriculture uses about a third of the land on the planet and occupies the lives of about two and a half billion people. Farming in the twentieth century has become highly technological in more developed nations with geographical technologies like GIS, GPS, and remote sensing while less developed nations continue with practices which are similar to those developed after the first agricultural revolution, thousands of years ago. It’s important to understand where our food comes from. Growing need of agricultural production has been greatly felt with the growth of population, not only for the sake of food security but also for providing employment. Crop diversification within the sector has also been noticed to a great extent. Agriculture plays an essential role in the process of economic development of less developed countries like India. Besides providing food to nation, agriculture releases labour, provides saving, contributes to market of industrial goods and earns foreign exchange. Agricultural development is an integral part of overall economic development. In India, agriculture was the main source of national income and occupation at the time of Independence. Agriculture and allied activities contributed nearly 50 percent to India’s national income. Around 72 percent of total working population was engaged in agriculture. These confirm that Indian economy was a backward and agricultural based economy at the time of Independence. After 61 year of Independence, the share of agriculture in total national income declined from 50 percent in 1950 to 18 percent in 2007- 08. But even today more than 60 percent of workforce is engaged in agriculture. In spite of this, it is also an important feature of agriculture that is to be noted that growth of other sectors and overall economy depends on the performance of agriculture to a considerable extent. Because of these reasons agriculture continues to be the dominant sector in Indian Economy. Since independence India has made much progress in agriculture. Indian agriculture, which grew at the rate of about 1 percent per annum during the fifty years before Independence, has grown at the rate of about 2.6 percent per annum in the post-Independence era. Expansion of area was the main source of growth in the period of fifties and sixties after that the contribution of increased land area under agricultural production has declined over time and increase in productivity became the main source of growth in agricultural production. Another important facet of progress in agriculture is its success in eradicating of its dependence on imported food grains. Indian agriculture has progressed not only in output and yield terms but the structural changes have also contributed. All these developments in Indian agriculture are contributed by a series of steps initiated by Indian Government. Land reforms, inauguration of Agricultural Price Commission with

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” objective to ensure remunerative prices to producers, new agricultural strategy 1, investment in research and extension services, provision of credit facilities, and improving rural infrastructure are some of these steps.

Hypothesis -

-

Govt. policies and scientific innovations i.e. the high yielding varieties programme, multiple cropping programme, integrated development of dry areas, plant protection measures, increased use of fertilizers, and new irrigation, always prove a boon for the production and development of overall agriculture practices. The new strategy, New Agricultural Strategy, is beneficial for all states as equal.

Objectives - -

To trace out the principle government policies for promoting agricultural development. To see the relationship between the diversification of agriculture and increased production of food grains.

Research Questions - - - -

Do green revolution change the cropping pattern? How Green Revolution changes the land use pattern of particular areas? Do farmers convinced to grow other than traditional crops after green revolution? Do diversification or crop specializations fulfill the need of grains in India?

Analysis

For the overall development of Indian agriculture, many institutional and infrastructural changes have been introduced since Independence. Broadly, agricultural policy followed during this period can be distinguished in four phases: first phase considered from 1947 to mid sixties; second phase considered period from mid sixties to 1980; third phase included period from 1980 to 1991; and forth phase includes period from 1991-92 onwards. The first phase of agricultural policy witnessed tremendous agrarian reforms, institutional changes, development of major irrigation project and strengthens of cooperative credit institution. The most important contribution of land reforms was abolition of intermediaries and giving land titles to the actual cultivators. Land reforms were important in increasing agricultural production during this phase. The Community Development Programme, decentralized planning and the Intensive Area Development Programmes were also initiated for regenerating Indian agriculture that had stagnated during the British period. In order to encourage the farmers to adopt better technology, incentive price policy was adopted in 1964 and the Agricultural Price Commission was set up to advice the Government on the fixation of support prices of agricultural crops. Despite the institutional changes and development programmes introduced by the Government during this phase, India remained dependent upon foreign countries for food to feed the rising population. The second phase in Indian agriculture started in mid 1960s with adoption of new agricultural strategy known as Green Revolution. The new agricultural strategy relies on high-yielding varieties of crops, multiple cropping, the package approach, modern farm practices and spread of irrigation facilities. The biggest achievement of this strategy has been attainment of self sufficiency in food grains. Agrarian reforms during this period took back seat while research, extension, input supply, credit, marketing, price support and spread of technology were the prime concern of policy makers.The third next phase in Indian agriculture began in early 1980s. This period started witnessing process of diversification which resulted into fast growth in non-food grains output like milk, fishery, poultry, vegetables, fruits etc which accelerated growth in agricultural GDP during the 1980s There has been a considerable increase in subsidies and support to agriculture sector during this period while public sector spending in agriculture for infrastructure development started showing decline in real term but investment by farmers kept on moving on a rising trend. The fourth phase of agricultural policy started after initiation of economic reform process in 1991. This raised new challenges among policymakers. Because of this, a New Agricultural Policy was launched by Indian Government in July 2000. This seeks to attain output growth rate of 4 percent per annum in agriculture sector based on efficient use of resources. It seeks to achieve this objective in a sustainable manner and with equity. This was first time when government released a national agriculture policy. The policy document discusses what ought to be done in agriculture.

Methodology

Changing Agrarian Economy since Independence:- agrarian economy has changed since Independence. Keeping this view in mind we took two indicators of agricultural growth i.e. land use pattern, and cropping pattern.

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Land Use Pattern

The basic factor in agriculture is land. Knowledge about land use pattern is vital to understand whether the utilization of land in India is at its full potential or far from its full potential. In India the classification of land has had its roots in agricultural statistics. Till 1950, the land in India was broadly classified into five categories. Hence, a reclassification was adopted from March 1950. Table: 1 Changes in Land Use Pattern in India from 1950-51 to 2001-02 Category

1951-52

1971-72

2001-02

Non-Agricultural Land

12690 (4.41%)

16972 (5.58%)

24070 (7.89%)

Barren and Uncultivable Land

37484 (13.02%)

27996 (9.20%)

17709 (5.81%)

Net Sown Area

119400 (41.4% )

139721 (45.94%)

141416 (46.36%)

Forest Land

48889 (16.98)

63771 (20.97)

69511 (22.79)

Other

201368 (24.19%)

221590 (18.31%)

238143 (17.15%)

Note: Figures in bracket italics indicates percentage to Reported Area Source: Agricultural Statistics at a Glance (2008)

Under it, land in India now classified under nine different categories. These are as: (i) forests; (ii) barren and uncultivable lands; (iii) land put to non-agricultural uses; (iv) cultivable wastes; (v) permanent pastures and other grazing lands; (vi) miscellaneous tree crops and groves not included in the net area sown; (vii) current fallows; (viii) other fallows; and (ix) net sown area.

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Changes in Cropping Pattern

Cropping pattern means the proportion of area under different crops at a particular period of time. A change in cropping pattern means a change in the proportion under different crops. Table 4 indicates that the area under non-food crops as a proportion of the total cropped area is increasing but still there is dominance of food crops. At the beginning of the economic planning in India, 76.7 percent land was put under food crops and about 23.3 percent on non-food crops. By 2001, area under food crops had come down to 65.83 percent and under non-food crops has increased to 34.17 percent. This shift in the allocation of area from food crops to non-food crops reflect a change from subsistence cropping to commercial cropping. This shifting of land from food crops to non-food crops was mainly influenced by the prevailing price in market and profitability per hectare. Similarly, here it can also be concluded that, there is preponderance of cereals, about 54.43 percent of the area is devoted to the production of cereals, while only 11.4 percent is devoted to pulses. Though, the area under both cereals and pulses is increasing but the rate of increase in area under cereals is greater than that of pulses. It means whatever cropped area increased as a result of irrigation facilities, chemical fertilizer, and high yielding varieties of seeds, a greater part of it is devoted to food grains. Within cereals, area under coarse cereals is gradually declining since 1950/51. This is due to fact that coarse cereals are inferior goods. Table 2: Changes in Cropping Pattern in India since 1950-51 CROPS

1950-51

1970-71

2000-01

Rice

23.50

22.60

24.03

Wheat

7.60

11.00

13.84

Corse Cereals

29.90

27.80

16.55

Sugar Cane

1.30

1.60

2.49

Total Oilseeds

8.3

8.90

13.56

Source: Agricultural Statistics at a Glance (2008)

Furthermore, Table 4 also shows that area under fruits and vegetables and oilseeds is gradually increasing since 1950/51. This is because the consumption pattern is shifting from cereals to non-cereals. These growth rates are lower than the growth rate of rural population. Thus, the clear implication of this growth trends is that the per capita output in agriculture is declining.

Conclusion

In India, “while population grows, the land surface is fixed and of this only a certain proportion is available for cultivation” (Planning commission, 1961). Further scope for bringing extra land under the plough is limited. This can be done by applying inputs in a more intensive way and by adopting modern methods of production through use of improved technology, besides making an adequate provision for institutional financing, better methods of marketing, etc. These technological factors comprise (i) irrigation; (ii) Consumption of fertilizers and manure; (iii) Improved seed, and (iv) agricultural implements. Water is another basic factor in agriculture next only to land. Only rainfall is the natural source

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of water in agriculture. But rainfall is the most unreliable Therefore, only artificial supply of water through irrigation is the way to overcome the problem of deficiency of water, water of tanks, ponds, lakes, and artificial reservoirs. The surface water is carried to the filed by canals, distributaries, and channels. Ground water is tapped by sinking wells where drought animals, diesel or electric power is utilized to take out water. In India canals, tanks, wells including tubewells are the principal sources of irrigation. Since 1950-51, considerable importance had been attached to the provision of canal irrigation and well irrigation. Even though 40 percent of irrigation is supplied by canals, now well irrigation has caught up rapidly irrigation by tubwells has been expanded considerably. In the meantime, tanks and other source of irrigation are declining in importance. In any scheme for boosting agricultural output, the use of chemical fertilizer has an important role. India’s soil though varied and rich in deficient in nitrogen and phosphorus- two plants nutrients which together with organic manure influence crop return, which population rising at a first rate, the use of larger and larger doses of chemical fertilizer is the only way to augment our food grains production. The new agricultural strategy was based on increased use of fertilizer. Reference Azam-Ali, S. N. and Squire, G. R. 2002. Principles of Tropical Agronomy. Oxon, UK: CABI Publishing. Balakrishnan, P. and M. Parameswaran (2007), “Understanding Economic Growth in India: A Prerequisite”, Economic and Political Weakly,. Chand Ramesh (2001), “Emerging Trends and Issues in Public and Private Investments in Indian Agriculture: a State wise Analysis”, Indian Journal of Agricultural Economics, Government of India (2008), Agricultural Statistics at a Glance. Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture, New Delhi. Sharma, K. L. (1977), “Measurement of the effect of area, yield, and prices in the increase of value of crop output in India”, Agricultural Situation in India,

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” DO-V

Assessment of Extent of Entrepreneurial Success Among the Protected Agriculture Entrepreneurs Gondkar Sachin Sopan, B.K.Singh & R.S.Hudda M.Sc Agri. Extension, IARI, New Delhi, Senior Scientist, CATAT, IARI, New Delhi, Professor, Dept. of Extn. Education, CCS HAU, Hisar. [email protected] Key Words: protected cultivation technology, sustainability, profitability, entrepreneurial success The present challenge of climate change, degradation of natural resources, effects of hazardous agricultural chemical residues offer us a great opportunity to shift towards more sustainable and higher efficient use of available natural resources. This situation calls for more intensive but sustainable options like green house or protected agriculture. ‘Protected Agriculture’ is the modification of the natural environment to achieve optimum plant growth. Foreseeing need for wider adoption of technology, the investigation was done in Maharashtra (in 2010-11), as the state has gone miles in adoption of the technology. For measurement of the extent of entrepreneurial success, a special index was developed which included parameters focusing profitability, sustainability, enterprise expansion, and socio-psychological dimensions. The results revealed that the extent of entrepreneurial success among the entrepreneurs was found to be moderate (71.6 %) to high level (16.7%). Correlation of entrepreneurial success with socio-personal-economic, psychological and communication characteristics of protected cultivation entrepreneurs with multiple correlation coefficient was analyzed, result indicated positive correlation with education (R value=0.306**), experience in protected cultivation (R= 0.248*), risk orientation (R=1.026**), and economic motivation (R=0.552*). Results on sustainability parameters indicated that most of the entrepreneurs viewed protected cultivation technology as sustainable cultivation practice. As the entrepreneurs experience higher productivity with less or optimum natural resources. The practice of protected cultivation technology had given impetus and scope for more diversified production base as combining vegetables, flowers and fruits.. Hence more innovative sustainable technologies like protected cultivation need to be given higher attention and spread to the potential geographical locations.

Introduction

India today is earmarked by the world as one of the fastest developing countries with the potential to become a super power. The country has always been an agri-oriented country, with a surplus in food grain production due to the wide adaptation of new emerging technologies and methods in production. The present challenge of climate change, degradation of natural resources, effects of hazardous agricultural chemical residues offer us a great opportunity to shift towards more sustainable and higher efficient use of available natural resources. This situation calls for more intensive but sustainable options like green house or protected agriculture. ‘Protected Agriculture’ is the modification of the natural environment to achieve optimum plant growth (Jensen, 1995). Eentrepreneurships is the dynamic process of creating incremental wealth. The wealth is created by individuals who take the major risks in terms of equity, time and career commitment of providing value to some product or service (Kuratko , 2001).

Objective

1. Assessment of Extent of Entrepreneurial Success Among the Protected Agriculture Entrepreneurs.

Methodology

Foreseeing need for wider adoption of technology, the investigation was done in Maharashtra (in 2010-11), as the state has gone miles in adoption of the technology. The sample included protected agriculture entrepreneurs, who have launched their own enterprises of greenhouses and started cultivating, trading and exporting flowers and vegetables. For measurement of the extent of entrepreneurial success, a special index was developed which included parameters focusing profitability, sustainability, enterprise expansion, and socio-psychological dimensions. Parameters for assessing entrepreneurial success under Entrepreneurial Success Index (ESI)

A. Profitability Indicators

i. Gross return per unit investment:

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” ii. Net income (Rupees) per annum): iii. Percentage reinvestment of profit:

B. Enterprise expansion parameters.

iv. Employment generated in protected agriculture units: v. . Growth in number of protected agriculture units: vi. Degree of market expansion:

C. Sustainability parameters. vii. Adaptability: viii. Sustainability: ix. Degree of diversification:

D. Socio-psychological parameters. x. Degree of satisfaction: xi. Prestige earned in Society: xii. Occupational Leadership:

Results

Entrepreneurial Success: The entrepreneurial success score is a cumulative total of the obtained scores of the respondent expressed as a percentage over total obtainable score on entrepreneurial success index. Table 1: Distribution of respondents on Entrepreneurial Success Index (ESI). No.

Entrepreneurial success index

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Mean Standard Deviation Range Categories Very low (Mean+2SD)

N=60 59.95 11.70 31.43 – 86.43 Frequencies 3 4 43 9 1

Percentage 5.0 6.7 71.6 15.0 1.7

The results revealed that the extent of entrepreneurial success among the entrepreneurs was found to be moderate (71.6 %) to high level (16.7%). It was also found that, the mean score per cent of entrepreneurial success of Protected Cultivation entrepreneurs was 59.95, which is just above fifty per cent .This indicates that the degree of success achieved by the entrepreneurs was just above average. Thus it can be concluded that the Protected Cultivation entrepreneurs were successful in their enterprises at moderate. Shelke et al. (2002), reported similar findings on their studies of entrepreneurship.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Table 2: Correlation analysis between entrepreneurial success and selected independent variables.

Sr. No.

Socio-personal-economic Variables

Correlation coefficients (r) of adoption behavior of improved cultivation practices

1.

Age

-0.194

2.

Education

0.306**

3.

Caste

0.142

4.

Family size

0.058

6.

Social participation

0.271*

5.

Land holding

0.212

6.

Annual family income

0.117

7.

Experience in Protected Cultivation

0.248*

Psychological variables

8.

Risk orientation

1.026**

9.

Economic motivation

0.552*

Communication Variables

10.

Extension contact

0.227*

11.

Mass media exposure

0.552**

** Significant at 0.01 level of probability * Significant at 0.05 level of probability

Correlation of entrepreneurial success with socio-personal-economic, psychological and communication characteristics of protected cultivation entrepreneurs with multiple correlation coefficient was analyzed, result indicated positive correlation with education (R value=0.306**), experience in protected cultivation (R= 0.248*), risk orientation (R=1.026**), and economic motivation (R=0.552*). The results also reveal that high cost involved in the initial investment of protected cultivation was a major factor hindering in establishing the enterprise. Age of cut flower cultivators was however, having negative correlation with entrepreneurial behaviour. It shows that if entrepreneur is young age then chances of success are high. Educational status was found to be positive and significant at 0.01 level of probability. It shows that education an important factor in determining entrepreneurial orientation as cited by Shivaramane et al. (2008). Risk orientation of entrepreneurs was also showing positive relationship with entrepreneurial orientation. Mass media exposure was also a important factor determining the entrepreneur orientation as it showed positive and significant relationship with enterprise success. The reason could be higher exposure to information sources leading to more knowledge related to various activities and functions necessary for protected cultivation technology. Results for profitability parameters revealed that majority of entrepreneurs were gaining high on profit and productivity parameters. The increase net annual income shows that entrepreneurs had been benefited economically through practice of protected cultivation. Findings on enterprise expansion parameters show higher levels of perennial employment generation in the study area. Some of protected cultivation entrepreneurs were also progressively converting their open field cultivable area into protected cultivation structure. Sustainability parameters indicated that most of the entrepreneurs viewed protected cultivation technology as sustainable cultivation practice. As the entrepreneurs experience higher productivity with less or optimum natural resources utilization. The practice of protected cultivation technology had given impetus and scope for more diversified production base as combining vegetables, flowers and fruits in the study area. With adoption of this innovative technology farmers in the study area had showed greater adaptive skills in relation to various dynamic processes going in and around the entire socio-gio economic setup. Results on socio-psychological parameters indicated greater achievements on satisfaction levels, prestige gained and occupational leadership attained. Majority of the responded positively to various dimensions of socio-psychological

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” variables. But lack of coordination and cooperation among the entrepreneurs were also found to be impediments to cooperative marketing and input purchasing.

Conclusion

Hence it can be concluded that adoption of protected agriculture resulted in increasing productivity, sustainability and higher level of economic, social satisfaction among the entrepreneurs. The success of entrepreneurs in protected cultivation were moderate to high levels The major hurdles in wider spread of protected agriculture was higher initially investment, lack of training in protected cultivation technology, and unavailability of quality inputs in the study area. Thus the present challenge of rapid population growth, urbanization, climate change, rapid depletion of natural resource base demands for more sustainable but productive technology use. Increase in input use efficiency, conservation of natural resources without compromising the future generation demands is need of the hour. Hence more innovative sustainable technologies like protected cultivation need to be given higher attention and spread to the potential geographical locations. References Jensen, M. H., Malter, A. J. (1995). Book on “Protected Agriculture: A Global Review”. Published by World Bank, Washington DC. Shelke, R.D., Kalyankar, S.P. and Dhoke, P.K. 2002. Essential qualities of successful entrepreneur. National Seminar on Entrepreneurship Development in Agriculture. 2&3 March, 2002,Marathwada Agricultural University, Parbhani. Abstract: 34 Sivaramane, N., Kumar, A., Singh, D. R., and Arya, P. (2008). “An economic analysis o traditional and hi-tech rose (Rosa spp) cultivation”. Journal of Ornamental Horticulture,vol-11(1):21-26. Kuratko, D.F.et al. (2001). An examination of owner‟s goals in sustaining entrepreneurship. Journal of Small Business Management, 35(1), January: 24-33

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” DO-VI

An Economic Analysis of Happy Seeder Technology for Paddy Straw Management G. S. Romana, Mandeep Singh and Gurmeet Singh Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana Email: [email protected] Paddy- wheat crop rotation is dominant in the state covering about 28 lakh hectares of cultivable land. This crop rotation is supposed to produce about 40 million tonne of crop waste every year. Out of this wheat straw is mostly used as dry fodder for cattle, a small part of paddy straw is utilised in generating power at biomass thermal plants while rest about 20 million tonne of the paddy straw is set on fire in the fields. Owing to high silica content, paddy straw cannot be directly fed to animals. It has been officially stated that the burning of paddy straw residue causes soil nutrient loss worth 3.85 million tonne of organic carbon, 59000 tonne nitrogen, 20000 tonne phosphorus and 34000 tonne of potassium besides severely affecting the quality of ambient air. Straw carbon, nitrogen and sulphur are completely burnt and lost to the atmosphere in the process of burning (Singh et al 2012). These nutrients then have to be replenished through organic or inorganic fertilisers, which increase the cost of production. A study conducted by the National Remote Sensing Agency indicated that paddy burning in Punjab contributed 261 giga gram (Gg; 1 Gg=1,000 metric tonne) of carbon mono dioxide, 19.8 Gg of nitrogen oxide, and other gases to the atmosphere. These gases cause green house effect which in turn disturbs the natural climate of the planet. Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, has estimated that total crop residue (paddy and wheat) contained 6 million tonne of carbon, which on burning could produce 22 million tonne of carbon dioxide. It is further estimated that 25 percent nitrogen, 30-35 percent phosphorus, 50 percent sulphur and 75 percent potash applied to the paddy crop remains in the paddy straw. Heat generated by burning paddy straw kills useful microbes in the soil leading to poor soil health and loss of soil fertility. Farmers generally burn paddy straw before wheat sowing as the cheap and easy option for residue management as spreading, removal and incorporation of paddy straw in the field are labour-intensive and expensive tasks. Further decomposition of paddy straw delays the sowing of wheat. The delay of sowing wheat after 15 November results in yield losses of 1 % per day (Brar et al., 2010). To solve the problem of burning of paddy straw and late sowing of wheat, a machine called Happy seeder has been developed for in-situ management of paddy straw (Sidhu et al., 2007) that allows direct drilling of wheat in standing as well a loose paddy straw. The present paper is an economic analysis of the happy seeder technology used for the paddy straw management. The following objectives were proposed for this paper to conclude the results –

Objectives - - -

To study the costs involved and returns thereof in happy seeder technology. To assess the benefits of using happy seeder To compare the normal sown wheat and happy seeder sown wheat.

Methodology

The Front Line Demonstrations on happy seeder technology were conducted on 12 hectares of 17 farmers in Bathinda and 53 hectares of 14 farmers in Sangrur districts during the year 2012-13 to popularise the available technology for the management of paddy straw. These demonstrations were analysed to conclude the results. The normal wheat crop grown on these farms were compared with that of wheat crop sown with happy seeder. The various preparatory tillage operations have been assessed at the prevailing custom hiring rates in the respective district. The inputs have been assessed at the prevailing rates in the open market. Weighted averages and simple tabular analysis carried out to achieve the objectives.

Results and discussion Cost structure in using happy seeder

The happy seeder for sowing of wheat crop after paddy harvesting can be used in the field as such without ploughing it. However the bundles of loose paddy straw left over after the combine harvesting get choked in seed drill, disturbing the uniform distribution of seed in the field. Thus, to assure the smooth functioning of the seed drill in the field, the loose paddy straw needs to be distributed uniformly in the field. The cost worth Rs.412 per acre was spent for this operation as stated in table 1. Apart from this Rs.150 per acre were spent more on sowing of wheat with happy seeder over the normal seed drill. This is because the custom hiring rates of happy seeder are higher than the normal seed drills due its limited availability

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” and higher price. Further Rs.100 per acre was also spent more on insecticides as happy seeder sown wheat crop is more susceptible to stem borer. Overall Rs. 5142 per acre were spent on Table 1: Costs involved in happy seeder sown wheat (Rs/Ac) S. No 1.

Operations

Amount (Rs.)

Management of loose paddy straw

Bathinda

Sangrur

Mean

425

400

412

2.

Preparatory tillage

Nil

Nil

Nil

3.

Sowing

400

400

400

4.

Weedicide use

380

380

380

5.

Urea @110kg / Ac (Rs.277/ bag)

595

595

595

6.

DAP @ 60 kg / Ac (Rs.1125/ bag)

1350

1350

1350

7.

Irrigations - 4 only labour 5 hours

180

160

170

8.

Insecticides and fungicides

400

400

400

9.

Harvesting with combine

1000

1000

1000

10.

Labour used 12 hours

450 5180

420 5105

435

Total Costs

different operations in the field where happy seeder was used. These costs were Rs.75 per acre were more in Bathinda district over the Sangrur due to the different prevailing custom hiring rates there.

Cost structure in using normal drill

Under the conventional method of wheat sowing the loose paddy straw left over by the combine harvester is burnt in the open sky. The field is then cultivated 2-3 times with discs and cultivators for seed bed preparation. On the sample farms these operations were carried out and spent Rs.1550 per acre as shown in table 2. Apart from this the sowing with the normal seed drill cost Rs.150 per acre less than the happy seeder. The insecticide cost per acre was also less in the normal sown wheat worth Rs.100. The overall cost on different farm operations done for sowing wheat crop under the normal conditions came out to be Rs.6030 per acre in Bathinda and Sangrur districts. However there is slight variation in these costs in both the districts due to different custom hiring rates prevailing there. Table 1: Costs involved in normal sown wheat (Rs/Ac) S.No

Operations

Amount (Rs.) Bathinda

Sangrur

Mean

1.

Harvesting and burning of paddy straw

500

450

475

2.

Preparatory tillage

1100

1050

1075

3.

Sowing

250

250

250

4.

Weedicide use

380

380

380

5.


595

595

595

6.

DAP @ 60 kg / Ac (Rs.1125/ bag)

1350

1350

1350

7.


180

160

170

8.


300

300

300

9.


1000

1000

1000

10.


450

420

435

Total Costs

6105

5955

Comparative Cost structure

The costs incurred in sowing of wheat crop with happy seeder as well as normal drill are discussed in table 3. As it is clear from the table, Rs.63 per acre was spent more while handling the paddy straw before using happy seeder over normal sown fields. Further Rs.1075 per acre was spent additional for the preparatory tillage carried out before using the normal drill over the happy seeder fields. However the sowing was costly worth Rs.150 per acre by the happy seeder over the

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” normal drill. Apart from this Rs.100 per acre was also spent more in controlling the insect pests in happy seeder sown wheat over the normal sown wheat. The overall comparison shows that Rs.888 per acre was spent more in the normal sown wheat fields over the happy seeder sown wheat. Thus, apart from saving the burning of the paddy straw the happy seeder technology was able to save Rs.2220 per hectare over the normal sown wheat during the field preparation, sowing and management operations of the crop. Table 3: Costs involved in wheat sown with S.No

Operations

Amount (Rs. / acre) Happy seeder

Normal sown

1.

Management of loose paddy straw

412

475

2.

Preparatory tillage

Nil

1075

3.

Sowing

400

250

4.

Weedicide use

380

380

5.


595

595

6.

DAP @ 60 kg / Ac (Rs.1125/ bag)

1350

1350

7.


170

170

8.


400

300

9.


1000

1000

10.


435

435

Total Costs

5142

Productivity of wheat

The productivity of happy seeder sown and normal sown wheat is compared in table 4 which shows that the productivity was slightly more in happy seeder sown wheat over the normal sown wheat crop. The overall productivity of happy seeder sown wheat in Sangrur district was 50.10 quintal per hectare while that of normal sown wheat was 49.40 quintal per hectare accounting for 1.42 per cent increase. This increase was 2.75 per cent in Bathinda district explaining 56.00 quintal per hectare in happy seeder sown wheat and 54.50 quintal per hectare in normal wheat crop. Overall happy seeder sown wheat gave 51.19 quintal yield per hectare over the normal sown wheat that yielded 50.34 quintal per hectare, thus, reporting 1.69 per cent increase. Table 4: Yield of happy seeder sown wheat (q / ha) District

No of farmers

Area (ha)

Average Wheat Yield (q / ha) Demo.

Local check

% age change

Sangrur

14

53.0

50.10

49.40

1.42

Bathinda

17

12.0

56.00

54.50

2.75

Overall weighted Average

31

65.0

51.19

50.34

Saving nutrient enriched paddy straw

The happy seeder technology was demonstrated during the year 2012-13 in district Bathinda and Sangrur. The loose paddy straw left over after the combine harvesting was not burnt but uniformly distributed in the same field. The wheat was then sown with the happy seeder machine. The nutrients left in the paddy straw got conserved in the field contributing towards the yield of the succeeding wheat crop as well as improving the physical properties of the soils like water retention capacity, infiltration rate, bulk density etc. the Punjab Agricultural University has estimated that 25 percent nitrogen, 30-35 percent phosphorus, 50 percent sulphur and 75 percent potash applied to the paddy crop remains in the paddy straw. The nutrients, thus, saved have been calculated equivalent to the prevailing market price of Urea, DAP and Potash fertilizer. The paddy straw biomass added 36 kilogram nitrogen, 8 kilogram phosphorus and 71 kilogram potash in one hectare area. These nutrients, thus, saved Urea, DAP and Potash fertilizer worth Rs.423, Rs.392 and Rs.1988 respectively totalling the amount to Rs.2803 per hectare besides improving the physical properties over longer period of time (Table 5).

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Table 5: Nutrients Saved by conserving paddy straw (Rs./ ha) S.No

Particulars

Amount (Rs.)

1.

36 kg N saved from paddy straw (78.26 kg Urea @ Rs.5.40 / kg)

423.00

2.

8 kg P saved from paddy straw (17.40 kg DAP @ Rs.22.50 / kg)

392.00

3.

71 kg K saved from paddy straw (118.33 kg Potash @ Rs,16.80 / kg)

Gross Saving by happy seeder

All the savings by the happy seeder sown wheat over the normal sown wheat were summarized in table 6. The happy seeder technology saved during preparatory tillage, resulted in additional yield and saved nutrients by way of conserving paddy straw enriched Table 6: Savings by happy seeder over normal sown wheat S. No

Particulars

Amount (Rs. / Acre)

1

Saving on account of preparatory tillage

888.00

2.

Gain on account of additional yield of 85 kg / ha @ Rs.1400 / q.

476.00

3.

Fertilizers saved by conserving paddy straw

1120.00

4.

Pollution check by zero smoking of paddy straw

Unaccountable

Total savings of using happy seeder per acre

2484.00

with nitrogen, phosphorus and potash. These saving were respectively Rs.888, Rs.476 and Rs.1120 per acre totalling to Rs.2484 per acre. Apart from above savings happy seeder saved huge amount of paddy straw from burning, checking large volume of toxic gases decreasing the green house gas effect, thus, pollution to the great extent.

Conclusion

From the above discussion it is very much weighted observation that paddy straw after the combine harvesting can be managed effectively as well as profitably by using the happy seeder machine specially designed for this task besides sowing of succeeding wheat crop. Further happy seeder is the most efficient method to reduce the cost of production and manages the combine harvested paddy straw and ultimately improves the soil productivity over the longer period of time. This machine saved Rs.2220 per hectare during various operations of wheat sowing over the normal practice of burning of paddy straw followed by seed bed preparation and sowing of wheat. The results of this study also indicated that the happy seeder produced slightly higher grain yield worth Rs.1190 per hectare as compared to normal sown wheat, thus, proving to be profitable practice. Apart from this if paddy straw not burnt and conserved in the same field saved nutrients left over in it from the previous paddy crop worth Rs.2800 per hectare. So on an average the happy seeder saved about Rs.3400 and Rs.6200 per hectare if the paddy straw is partially burnt and if not burnt but conserved in the field, respectively. Least but not the last, large volume of harmful gases and a thick smoke cover over the entire state pushing the majority of the old age population towards the dead end can also be saved. Therefore, the farmers are advised to adopt the happy seeder technology for sowing wheat crop in the combine harvested fields, for management of paddy straw, for sowing of wheat in time and also for higher profit. References Brar, Navneet Kaur, Condon Jason, Evans Jeffrey and and Yadavinder-Singh (2010), “Nitrogen management in wheat sown in rice straw as mulch in North-West India.” 19th World Congress of Soil Science, Soil Solutions for a Changing world 1-6 August, 2010, Brisbane., Australia. Published on DVD. Rahman, M.A., Chikushi, J. and Saifizzaman, M. (2005). Rice straw mulching and nitrogen response of no-till wheat following rice in Bangladesh. Field Crops Res., 91: 71–81. Sardana, V., Sharma, S.K. and Randhawa, A.S. (2002). Yield performance of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties to late and very late sowing dates under the extreme north-west conditions of Punjab. J Res Punjab Agric Univ., 40: 177182. Sidhu, H.S., Manpreet-Singh, Humphreys, E., Yadvinder-Singh, Balwinder-Singh, Dhillon, S.S., Blackwell, J. Bector, V., Malkeet-Singh and Sarbjeet- Singh. (2007). The Happy Seeder enables direct drillingof wheat in to rice stubble. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture, 47: 844-854.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Singh, Avtar, Kaushal, Meenakshi and Singh, Harmeet. (2012). Improvement in productivity of wheat with crop residue and nitrogen-a review. Asian Journal of Biological and Life Sciences 1 (3): 139-146. Singh Avtar Singh, Maninder Kaur, J. S.Kang and Ashu Geol (2013), “Happy Seeder and Rotavator Technology for In-Situ Management of Paddy Straw.” International Journal of Advanced Research, Vol.1, Issue 8, 372-379. Statistical Abstract of Punjab (Various issues)

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” DO-VII

HYDROPONICS – MOST POTENTIAL WAY TO SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE Sandeep Singh, Research Scholar Dept. of Floriculture and Landscaping,Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana (Punjab) Dr. SunilaKumari, Asst. Professor/SMS (Horticulture), K.V.K.,Navsari Agricultural University, Surat (Gujarat) E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

With the alarmingly increasing population and decreasing cultivable lands there is intense pressure on land and urgent need to search and develop technologies so that we can feed ourselves. The intensive agricultural practices in last few decades ignited by green revolution have led to hysterical use of chemicals, thus adding to land degradation and environmental pollution, ultimately affecting our health. Thus focus is required on improved technologies for efficient input uses. In such scenario hydroponics seems to be most potent cultivation system which is future agriculture. Our % of urban population suffers from malnutrition due to either unavailability of fruits and vegetables or due to their probative prices. Basically growing plants without soil in a liquid or soilless media with mineral nutrient solution is known as ‘Hydroponics’. Simplified Hydroponics (SH) can help low income families organize and run farming mini-enterprises to help improve their income and living standards – ensuring their food security and income generation. SH uses very low cost, simple technology; requires almost no investment; and uses family labour. Generally, it is located in urban or peri-urban areas, although it is also suited to rural conditions. Advantages connected with this type of hydroponics include, it promotes the use of recycled materials, thus making low-cost materials such as wood and disposable containers, useful. It allows the growth of a wide variety of vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, garlic, strawberries, melons, flowers, aromatic and medicinal plants, etc. It is ideal for food production in urban and suburban areas (Urban Agriculture). It offers the advantage of using places that have not previously been considered appropriate for food production (courtyards, small gardens, walls, balconies, rooftops). Allow the production of high quality harmless food. The resultant fruits and vegetables have a high biological and nutritional value. Hydroponics helps maximizing the available space by following advanced systems like vertical gardening. Maximizing the input use efficiency thus, leading to precision farming and sustainability. Although at present the break even price for hydroponics is higher than conventional agriculture but with present situations sooner or later we have to adopt it and standardize the technologies for simplified hydroponics. Key words: hydroponics, sustainable farming, agriculture, simplified hydroponic system

Introduction

The burgeoning world population that has crossed 7 billion with India alone contributing 1.2 billion have created a huge pressure on land to feed and sustain it. Thus, the challenge before agricultural scientist is to provide adequate quantity and quality of produce for food and nutritional security. According to the provisional data released by Census India, rural population of India is: 68.84% and urban population in India is 31.16% and level of urbanization increased from 27.81% in 2001 to 31.16% in 2011. And this Urbanization leads to massive movement of people from rural to urban areas in search of work and making better money. When this happens there are few people left to tend to the fields or the labor is inadequate to do agriculture. In a country like India where rural areas have been neglected both in economic and development terms, people are coerced to move to urban cities and towns. Urbanization leads to the demand for the land (non renewable/ precious resource) to build new houses, industries, parks etc to cater to the increasing population in the urban regions so the agricultural lands are decreasing day by day in India. So the present extent of farming is dependent on such smalland marginal farmers, whose land holdings are below 2 hectares, constitute almost 80% of all Indian farmers, and more than 90% of them are dependent on rain for their crops. The World Bank estimates that India is one of the highest ranking countries in the world for the number of children suffering from malnutrition. India is one of the fastest growing countries in terms of population and economics, sitting at a population of 1.2 billion and growing at 10–14% annually (from 2001–2007). Despite India’s 50% increase in GDP since 1991, more than one third of the world’s malnourished population live in India.One of the major causes for malnutrition in India is increasing urbanization and decreasing land holdings. Due to the low financial status of Indian farmer, their diet often lacks in both quality and quantity. Women who suffer malnutrition are less likely to have healthy babies. In

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” India, Poor labour class generally lack proper knowledge and resources in feeding children; therefore Urbanization and decreasing land holdings are major cause of Malnutrition in Cities of India. Today, agriculture is faced with many problems including fast depleting natural resources and declining growth rate in productivity. These problems are further compounded by climate change. The intensive agricultural practices in last few decades ignited by green revolution have led to hysterical use of chemicals, thus adding to land degradation and environmental pollution, ultimately affecting our health. Thus, a sustainable agriculture production system which could improve input use efficiency is pre-requisite to sustain crop production without soil. In such scenario hydroponics seems to be most potent cultivation system which is future agriculture. Hydroponics can be defined as ‘Cultivation of plants in nutrient-enriched water, with or without the mechanical support of an inert medium such as sand or gravel. Fertilizer solution is pumped through the system periodically. As the plants grow, concentration of the solution and frequency of pumping are increased. A wide variety of vegetables and florist crops can be grown satisfactorily in gravel. And high quality crop plants are produced’.It is a more efficient way to provide food and water to plants. Plants don’t use soil – they use the food and water that are in the soil. Soil’s function is to supply plants nutrients and to anchor the plants roots. Hydroponics is not a newly invented practice, it is actually in use since thousands of years, one of the seven wonder of world - the famous Hanging Gardens of Babylon are one such example. In present time it has developed to level of highly sophisticated science. Their are six basic types of hydroponic systems and there are hundreds of variations (and combinations) of these hydroponic systems, but all hydroponic systems are based on these six system types. By understanding what makes these systems work you can understand how all variations of hydroponic systems work. These Hydroponic systems are fairly simple in concept, and if you understand how the systems work, building your own Hydroponic system wont be hard and can even be fun. These six different types of hydroponic growing systems, are: Aeroponic, Drip system, Ebb- Flow, Nutrient film technology (N.F.T.), Water Culture and Wick system.

Aeroponic System

The aeroponic system is probably the most high-tech type of hydroponic gardening. Like the N.F.T. system the growing medium is primarily air. The roots hang in the air and aremisted with nutrient solution. The mistings are usually done every few minutes. Because the roots are exposed to the air like the N.F.T. system, the roots will dry out rapidly if the misting cycles are interrupted.A timer controls the nutrient pump much like other types of hydroponic systems, except the aeroponic system needs a short cycle timer that runs the pump for a few seconds every couple of minutes.

Drip System

Drip systems are probably the most widely used type of hydroponic system in the world. Operation is simple, a timer controls a submersed pump. The timer turns the pump on and nutrient solution is dripped onto the base of each plant by a small drip line. In a Recovery Drip System the excess nutrient solution that runs off is collected back in the reservoir for re-use. The Non-Recovery System does not collect the run off.

Ebb and Flow (Flood and drain)System

The Ebb and Flow (Flood and Drain) system works by temporarily flooding the grow tray (root zone) with nutrient solution and then draining the solution back into the reservoir. This action is normally done with a submerged pump that is connected to a timer.When the timer turns the pump on, nutrient solution is pumped into the grow tray. When the timer shuts the pump off, the nutrient solution flows back into the reservoir. The Timer is set to come on several times a day. Like in any hydroponic system the timer settings vary depending on the size and type of plants, the temperature and humidity, the type of growing medium used, as well as many other variables. The Ebb & Flow (Flood and Drain) system is a versatile system that can be used with a variety of growing mediums.

N.F.T.

Nutrient Film Technique System -This is the kind of hydroponic system most people think of when they think about hydroponics. N.F.T. systems have a constant flow of nutrient solution so no timer requiredfor the submersible pump. The nutrient solution is pumped into the growing tray (usually a tube) and flows over the roots of the plants, and then drains back into the reservoir.There is usually no growing medium used other than air, which saves the expense of replacing the growing medium after every crop. Normally the plant is supported in a small plastic basket with the rootsdangling into the nutrient solution. N.F.T. systems are very susceptible to power outages and pump failures.

289


Water Culture System

The water culture system is the simplest of all active hydroponic systems. The platform that holds the plants is usually made of Styrofoam and floats directly on the nutrient solution. An air pump supplies air to the air stone that bubbles the nutrient solution and supplies oxygen to the roots of the plants.Water culture is the system of choice for growing leaf lettuce, which are fast growing water loving plants, making them an ideal choice for this type of hydroponic system. Very few plants other than lettuce will do well in this type of system. Wick System The Wick system is by far the simplest type of hydroponic system. This is a passivesystem, which means there are no moving parts. The nutrient solution is drawn into the growing medium from the reservoir with a wick. This system can use a variety of growing medium. Perlite, Vermiculite and Coconut Fiber are among the most popular. The biggest draw back of this system is that plants that are large or use large amounts of water may use up the nutrient solution faster than the wick(s) can supply it.

Significance of Hydroponics

Growing plants hydroponically is a strategy for producing fruits, flowers, and vegetables in areas where the soil is unsuited for gardening or where space is at a premium. On a commercial scale, hydroponics is used to grow tomatoes and other crops out of season in large greenhouse operations. It is also an enjoyable hobby for the home gardener which also encourages healthy food habits. Hydroponics is a convenient means of cloning hybrid cultivars that would otherwise not grow trueto-type from seed.

Sustainability of Hydroponics – Hydroponics growing practices have the following environmental benefits:

Integrated Pest Management Practices (IPM) : - Farmers canpractices an intensive Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program that uses beneficial insects to eliminate pests and stimulate healthy plant growth. In fact, hydroponics is a leader in the IPM movement that results in naturally-perfect produce. - Water is conserved and recycled - Despite being nourished by a nutrient-rich water, Hydroponic growing actually uses less water than field growing, due to two factors: In open field cultivation water is used only once and has to go through the soil before reaching the plant roots, resulting in water loss, whereas 100% of water is used and further conserved by this practice. This water is sterilized, recirculate and delivered to plants four times before it leaves the greenhouse and is further used in open field cultivation.

Soil conservation -

In an enclosed indoor garden, there is no depletion of soil nutrients because soil isn’t used in the growing process! This also means that soil erosion is impossible. Instead, the plants are rooted in a reusable coconut fiber that is a sustainable by-product of coconut production.

Land conservation.

Hydroponic farming yields 20-30 times more product per acre than conventional field production utilizing far less water per pound. This high yield means fewer acres needed for growing and more open space left to nature. Farmers plants the same indoor area every growing season. Thus there is no need to clear more acres to find rich soil or leave fields fallow to let the soil “recover.”

Other benefits of hydroponics include: - -

It’s a very profitable practice for low income families. Marginal farmers and city people can plant a Simple hydroponics (SH) which is not even costly and provide the farmer a good quality and quantity of product. - Hydroponics is soilless cultivation so a marginal farmer and city people need to to worry about the land management. - It is easy and too efficient method of cultivation. - One can do hydroponics cultivation by making slabs in their home with the involvement of his family. Hydroponicsproduceshigh quality product thatfetches high price in the market.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Conclusion: Looking to present scenario of Indian agriculture and increasing level of urbanization, hydroponics, seems to be an important type of agricultural technology as it minimizes the use of limiting land here. Although the cost of setting up is high, we believe that the future of India’s agriculture industry lies with this hi- tech farming system and alsothat crops produced through this system shall be enough to sustain India’s population in a few more years without the help of external food imports. References www.homehydrosystems.com/hydroponic-systems/systems.html‎/‎date 15/2/14 time 12:23am www.stuifbergenbulb.com/significance-of-hydroponics-gardening‎/‎date 15/2/14 time 12:37am www.future-agricultures.org/.../1560-small-farm-commercialisation-in-af. /‎date 15/2/14 time 12:49am www.agro.basf.com/agr/AP-Internet/en/content/competences/.../index‎/‎date 15/2/14 time 12:53am articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com › Collections › Farmers‎/‎date 15/2/14 time 12:55am www.plantmethods.com/content/9/1/4/abstract‎ sustainablog.org/2012/10/hydroponic-garden-sustainable/‎/‎date 15/2/14 time 12:29am en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malnutrition_in_India‎/‎date 15/2/14 time 12:59am gghydroponics.blogspot.com/2009/09/conclusion.html‎/‎date 15/2/14 time 01:09pm hydroponics.about.com/od/glossary/‎/‎date 15/2/14 time 12:32am www.unicef.org/india/children_2356.htm‎/‎date 15/2/14 time 01:06pm

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” DO-VIII

Compatibility studies on the development of finger millet flour based pasta Amir Gull, P. Kumar and K. Prasad* Department of Food Engineering and Technology, S. L. I. E. T., Longowal – 148106, Punjab, India (Email: [email protected])

Abstract

Convenience and palatability make the pasta more popular worldwide and very recently it is gaining popularity among the common man in India too. This traditional cereal based food is a result of dough or moisture enriched flour, shaped in various forms. Spaghetti, macaroni and vermicelli are the popular pasta forms. Normally, this product is high in starch but low in dietary fiber, minerals, vitamins and phenolic compounds. Increased concern for health consciousness, nutritious pasta products rich in fibre and various essential micronutrients having low glycemic index may be of preference. Finger millet is an extensively grown tiny millet grain and found rich in dietary fibre and essential minerals. High polyphenol content of seed coat gives this millet a dark brown tinge. Addition of finger millet flour to semolina in making the pasta not only improves the nutritional properties but also found an attractive colour and thus affected the appearance. The extent of tinge may thus be considered as an indicator of finger millet addition and reflects the nutritional enhancement. Physical, chemical, cooking rheological and sensory evaluation was carried out for the developed pasta and found the optimal cooking time lesser than control pasta with softer texture. Therefore, quality pasta by substituting semolina with finger millet flour could be developed, which not only enrich the pasta with various phytochemicals but also give variety to the range of pasta and options to use the millet in value addition. Key words: Finger millet, phytochemicals, semolina, cooking quality, texture and sensory.

Introduction

Pasta is a general term for fresh or dried dough with various shapes. It is usually made from durum wheat to get an elastic texture. Pasta consumption is steadily increasing around the world mainly due to convenience. These products are normally high in starch but low in dietary fiber, minerals, vitamins and phenolic compounds. With an increasing concern by the health conscious population, more nutritious pasta products rich in minerals, phenolic compounds and dietary fiber become the subject of prior significance. Emphasizing on this, an effort was put forth to develop pasta supplemented with finger millet (Eleucina coracana) flour which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. As small millet it is commonly known as ragi or mandua in India. It has assumed a status of important staple food in East and Central Africa and in India (Jenkins et al., 1982). India is the major producer of finger millet contributing nearly 60% of the global production (Shukla and Srivastava, 2011). Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and parts of North India witness the production at the larger scale (Vijayakumari et al., 2003). It is consumed generally by a as porridge and roti. The tiny millet grain has a dark brown seed coat, rich in polyphenols compared with other continental cereals such as barley, rice, maize, and wheat. Use of finger millet in pasta may thus reflect the nutritional enhancement and to give variety to the range of pasta and options to use the millet in value addition.

Materials and Method

Semolina and finger millet were procured from local market Sangrur, Punjab. The samples were grounded to flour in an electric grinder and passed through 60 mesh sieve. Semolina and finger millet flours were used in a ratio of 100:0, 20:80, 40:60, 60:40, and 80:20 to make the pasta using the extruder. Pasta was prepared from a mixture of semolina and finger millet dough with 30 ml of water. Mixing and kneading the mass for 15 min was done to produce stiff, plastic, homogeneous dough. The dough was then passed through an extruder fitted with an adjustable die. The extruded pasta was cut into pieces of uniform size with a knife moving over the outer die surface. Extruded samples were dried in cabinet drier at 45 °C for 2hr and packed in commercially available low density poly ethylene pouches (Badwaik et al., 2014; Singh et al. 2004). Proximate analysis of semolina and finger millet flour was carried out and hardness of the uncooked and cooked pasta was carried out using Kramer Shear Cell of a texture analyzer. Rapid Visco Analyzer (RVA) was used to determine the pasting properties. Optimum cooking time for each type of pasta was determined (AACC, 2000). For the determination of solid loss and water absorption, ten gram of pasta was weighed and cooked it in 250 ml boiling water for optimal cooking time. The cooked sample was taken out from water and cooking water was drained into 250 ml volumetric flask and volume was made up to 250 ml. 25 ml of cooking water was evaporated in an hot air oven at 100 °C to determine the weight of residue. The sensory analysis of freshly cooked pasta was carried out and average values are reported.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Table 1: Pasting characteristics of flour admixture of finger millet and pasta flour Flours Raw flour

Pasta flour

*

Peak Viscosity

Trough Viscosity Break down Final Viscosity

Set Back Peak Time Pasting Temperature

F0:S100 3384

2558

826

4659

2101

5.67

83.15

F20:S80 3586

2457

1129

4311

1854

5.80

74.20

F40:S60 3343

2386

957

4257

1871

5.73

75.00

F60:S40 3592

2544

1048

4452

1908

5.8

75.05

F80:S20 3336

2433

903

4437

2004

5.67

79.90

F0:S100 1985

1634

351

3713

2079

5.80

87.15

F20:S80 2206

1713

493

3416

1703

6.00

88.05

F40:S60 1833

1516

317

3102

1586

5.93

89.55

F60:S40 2160

1721

439

3299

1557

6.07

88.85

F80:S20 1519

1181

338

2373

1192

7.00

92.80

Viscosity in centi poise, S – Samolina flour, F – Finger millet flour

Table 2: Cooking and sensory characteristics of pasta Sample

Cooking Time Water absorption (/10g)

Cooking loss (%)

Sensory Appearance

Sensory Firmness

Sensory Texture

Sensory OAA

F0:S100

7.20±0.26

177.33±8.15

14.66±0.57

8.65±0.54

8.23±0.83

8.42±0.54

8.08±0.73

F20:S80

4.33±0.10

161.30±0.70

11.02±0.05

8.02±0.71

8.04±1.03

8.23±0.81

7.63±0.57

F40:S60

5.31±0.10

148.10±0.56

10.01±0.03

6.85±1.04

7.02±0.74

7.01±0.76

7.21±0.82

F60:S40

5.55±0.10

115.80±0.47

14.66±0.57

6.26±1.33

7.03±1.11

7.09±1.73

7.24±1.31

F80:S20

6.52±0.20

113.77±0.68

14.33±2.30

5.68±2.05

6.86±1.38

6.42±1.92

6.62±0.56

Table 3 Firmness of raw and cooked pasta Sample

Uncooked

Cooked

F0:S100

50.13±6.35

6.86±0.00

F20:S80

44.56±8.64

6.04±0.14

F40:S60

27.46±4.02

7.60±0.40

F60:S40

27.46±6.41

6.99±0.29

F80:S20

47.57±9.42

8.38±1.83

Result and discussion

The semolina and finger millet flour were found to have the moisture content of 9.43 and 12.06%; while the protein content was 12.37 and 7.63%; fat content 1.81 and 2.33% and the ash content found were 0.71 and 2.13%, respectively. The pasting properties of semolina and finger millet flour admixture clearly indicate the partial gelatinization of starch during the pasta making (Table 1). As per reduction in all kinds of viscosities with the increase in the peak time and pasting temperature further confirms the facts. The cooking performance of pasta variants in terms of optimal cooking time, water absorption and solid loss are presented (Table 2). It was found that optimal cooking time (OCT) decreased as finger millet content was increased (p≤0.05) with the durum wheat semolina. The optimal cooking time of pasta from durum wheat semolina (DMS) and finger millet flour (FMF) ranged from 7 to 4 minutes. Pasta prepared from 100% DMS required maximum cooking time i.e. 7 minutes to reach the optimal cooking, where as lowest OCT was shown by the pasta prepared from 80:20 (DMS) and (FMF). Water absorption of pasta prepared from different blends was in the range of 113.73 to 177.33% depending upon the cooking time. Water absorption was maximum in the control sample being 177.33% after 7 minutes of cooking, respectively (Table 2) .With the increase in cooking time, water absorption of pastas prepared from different levels of FMF decreased (p≤0.05) for 80 and 60% use of finger millet, respectively. However, for a given cooking time water absorption decreased as the FMF concentration increased from 40- 80%. The total solid loss of control pasta was found as 14.66% after 7 minutes of cooking. It was observed that as the cooking time was increased from 5 to 6 minutes there was substantial increase in total solid loss. They reported that the total solid losses in the range of 6.1 to 12.9% with the increase in cooking time from

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” 10 to 25 minutes. Control raw and cooked pasta had the firmness value of 50.13 and 6.86 kg (Table 3) and observed the change in the firmness on substitution of semolina with finger millet flour. Variation in the firmness of the pasta linked with the sensory score revealed that acceptable quality pasta with nutritional enhancement can be prepared by substituting the semolina till 60 % level. References American Association of Cereal Chemists (AACC) (2000). Approved Methods of the AACC (10th Ed.). AACC Method 44-15A, One Stage Moisture-Air-Oven Method; AACCMethod 08-01, Ash – Basic Method; AACCMethod 46-13,Micro-Kjeldahl Method; AACCMethod 22-10A; AACCMethod 16-50; Pasta Cooking Time- 66–50, AACC, St. Paul, MN. Badwaik, L. S., Prasad, K. and Seth, D. 2013. Optimization of ingredient levels for the development of peanut based fiber rich pasta, Journal of Food Science and Technology, 10.1007/s13197-012-0779-8. Jenkins, D. J. A., Ghafari, H. and Wolever, T. M. S. (1982). Relationship between the rate of digestion of foods and postprandial glycaemia. Diabetologia 22:450–455. Singh, S., Raina, C. S., Bawa, A. S. and Saxena, D. C. (2004) Sweet potato based pasta product: optimization of ingredient levels using RSM. Int J Food Sci Tech 39:191–200. Sukla, K. and Shrivastava, S. (2011). Evaluation of finger millet incorporated noodles for nutritive value and glycemic index. J Food Sci Technol DOI 10.1007/s13197-011-0530-x Vijayakumari, J., Mushtari, B. J., Shamshad, B. and Sumangala, G. (2003).Sensory attributes of ethnic foods from finger millet. Paper presented at CCSHAU, Hisar. Recent trends in millet processing and utilization: 7–12.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” DO-IX

STUDIES ON PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND PHYTOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF SPINACH JUICE STORED WITH THERMAL AND CHEMICAL PRESEVATION Gurpreet Kaur, Poonam Aggarwal and Amarjit Kaur Department of Food Science and Technology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab 141004

Abstract

Spinach is considered as a super food all over the world. It acts as a natural agent for purifying the blood and maintaining healthy cell activity, which may inhibit cancer. It plays an important role in neutralizing acids in the body, as its natural alkalinity lowers pH levels. This cool season and highly perishable vegetable can be made available for the consumers in off seasons also in the form of juice. The juice can be made shelf stable by using chemical additives and heat treatment. So, the aim of the experiment was to compare the effect of chemical additive namely Sodium benzoate, open vat sterilization and autoclaving on physicochemical and phytochemical parameters and antioxidant activity of Spinach juice. The storage was done for 6 months at room temperature and the analysis was conducted at the interval of one month. For the physicochemical parameters like TS, TSS and b values, very slight but non-significant change was observed. Color values (L & a), titratable acidity, Vitamin C, Total Phenols and Antioxidant activity changed significantly (p≤0.05). Considering all the parameters, samples treated with Sodium Benzoate maintained the maximum nutrient stability. Keywords: Spinach, Phytochemicals, Antioxidant activity, Storage, Correlation

Introduction

Spinach has been cultivated for its healthy traits in Asia and Iran as far back as 2,000 years ago. It has long been known as a natural agent for purifying the blood and maintaining healthy cell activity, which may inhibit cancer. Evidence also suggests that the benefits of spinach juice include oral health, such as prevention of diseases like pyorrhea or gum inflammation and bleeding. Spinach contains 13 different types of antioxidant compounds that are known to prevent free radical damage of cells in the body.. Spinach is a cool season crop and during the harvesting season, large quantities get spoiled due to excess production. This is a highly perishable commododity. So a quick and Long term preservation method is required that could be useful to prevent spoilage of Spinach such that it could be consumed in off seasons as well. For such reasons, Spinach can be processed into juice in order to increase its shelf stability. Keeping in view, the present study was conducted to process and preserve the Spinach juice. Therefore, effect of chemical additive i.e. Sodium benzoate and open vat sterilization and autoclaving on physicochemical and phytochemical parameters and antioxidant activity of Spinach juice.

Materials and Methods

The study was conducted in the Department of Food Science and Technology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. Spinach was procured from the vegetable science Department. P.A.U Ludhiana only. Fresh Spinach were washed and chopped and juice was extracted in a juicer extractor (Kalsi: 9001-2008). The juice was pasteurized at 83°C for 3 min. Citric acid @ 0.15% was added and further treatments were given. The pre-sterilized glass bottles were filled with the hot juice and corked for T1 and T2. Sample

Treatment

T1

Na-benzoate @ 3000ppm

T2

processing at 100°C for 20 min in boiling water bath and cooled

T3

Autoclaved for 20 min at 15 psi/121°C

These processed juices were kept for storage at room temperature for six months.

Physico-chemical and Phytochemical analysis

Spinach juices were analysed at regular interval of one month for the parameters like Total solids, Titratable acidity using AOAC methods. TSS was taken using hand refractometer(ERMA, Japan), color using Minolta Hunter colorimeter. For phytochemical parameters, Vitamin C was determined by the titrimetric method using dichlorophenol indophenol dye [Ranganna 1986]]. Total phenolic content was determined by Folin-ciocalteau reagent [Singleton and Rossi 1965].

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” The % Antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) method [Brand-Williams 1995]. The results were evaluated by Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post hoc tests using Systat statistical program version 16 (SPSS Inc., USA).

Results and Discussion

The samples were studied for the effect of different chemical additives on Physicochemical [TS, TSS, Acidity, Color (L, a, b)], Phytochemical (Ascorbic acid, Total phenols) and % antioxidant activity for the storage period of 6 months.

Effect on Total solids and TSS

TS and TSS increased non-significantly (p≤0.05) in all the samples during the storage. An increase in soluble content of apple pulp was reported during storage when preserved with chemical preservatives [Kinh et al]. The treatments had no significant effect (p≤0.05) on Total solids as well as TSS.

Effect on acidity

According to the results, chemical additives as well as storage has a significant effect (p≤0.05) on acidity of the Spinach juice (Table 1). A increase in titratable acidity was also found during storage of papaya products (Kulwal et al. 1985). The acidity of the sample T2 increased more as compared to other samples and the change was least in Sodium benzoate (T1) sample. These results are in agreement with the findings of Muhammad et al. (2011)

Effect on Color (L a b values)

Color is one of the most important visual attributes for juices. The L value varied significantly (p≤0.05), both for storage as well as treatments. On the day of preparation, the lightest sample was T3 followed by T2 and T1. At the end of 6 months, T3 remained the lightest and T1 was found dull than the other samples. The ‘a’ value changed significantly (p≤0.05) (Table 2) but the b values changed non-significantly (p≤0.05). On the whole, sample T1 with Na benzoate retained the best green color of all the samples Tomato juice with Na benzoate seems to be more stable than the other preservatives during 6 months of storage and developed lesser off color and turbidity [Hossain et al 2011].

Effect on Vitamin C content

Vitamin C is light and heat sensitive, the concentration of Vitamin C follows first order kinetics and thus storage time affects Vitamin C content [Heldman and singh 1981]. Spinach is a good source of Vitamin C. According to the results, treatments have significant effect (p≤0.05) on Vitamin C content. Also the Vitamin C content decreased significantly (p≤0.05) during the storage (Table 3). Out of the treated samples, the sample with Na benzoate as chemical additive retained the maximum Vitamin C. In a finding, during the preservation of beverages with sodium benzoate the loss of added ascorbic acid was much lower than in thermally treated samples (Cvetković and Jokanović 2009).

Effect on Total Phenols

The phenolic content was found more in chemically treated sample (T1) than the heat treated sample. But both the treatments and storage affected the Total phenols significantly (p≤0.05)(Table 4). According to the findings, a decrease in total polyphenol content of tomato juices after 3, 6 and 9 months of storage were reported [vallverdu-Queralt et al 2011].

Effect on Antioxidant activity

Antioxidants delay the oxidation process, inhibiting the polymerization chain initiated by free radicals and other subsequent oxidizing reactions (Halliwell and Aruoma, 1991). According to the results, on the day of preparation, percent Antioxidant activity for samples T1 to T3 was found to be 56.03, 49.92 and 47.95 respectively (Table 5). Significant (p≤ 0.05) decrease in antioxidant activity was found during storage for 6 months. At the end of 6 months, the percent antioxidant activity decreased to 32.73, 23.95 and 27.69 percent respectively. Also, the percent antioxidant activity for the three treated was different significantly at the end of 6 months. However, the decrease was found to be least in sample T1. It has been reported that the decrease in antioxidant activity may be linked to a decrease in total phenolic content and vitamin C during storage [Klimczak et al 2007]. According to them, antioxidant activity of orange juices decreased by 45 percent after 6 months of storage at 28°C. But in case of Spinach, the vitamin content is relatively high. So the reduction of antioxidant activity is mainly associated with significant decrease in vitamin C content (Fig. 1). Vitamin C and % antioxidant activity shares linear relationship

Conclusion

The experiment was to compare the effect of different chemical additives on the storage stability of Spinach juice. In this study, it is evident that Sodium benzoate proved to be a better preservation method than the vat sterilization and

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” autoclaving for the stability of physicochemical and phytochemical parameters and maintaining the antioxidant activity of the Spinach juice. Table 1: Effect of storage period (months) and treatments on Titratable acidity (%) of Spinach juice* Treatments

0

T1

0.365

T2 T3

1

2

3

4

5

0.371

0.375

0.262eC

0.271deC

0.295 cdC

0.326cB

0.351 bB

0.375 aA

0.496 aA

0.326

0.331

0.339

0.349

0.362

0.378

0.391aB

aA

cdB

aA

cdB

aA

bcB

aA

0.378

6

0.369

dB

abAB

aA

0.382

abA

aA

0.389 aB

Table 2: Effect of storage period (months) and treatments on the color values (L a b) of Spinach juice* Treatments

0

L

T1

35.23

T2

32.84 aAB

32.12 aB

31.43 abB

30.86 abcB

T3

30.61

29.83

29.11

28.37

T1

-1.85eB

-1.8 deB

-1.72 deB

-1.58 edB

T2

-1.96 eB

-1.88deB

-1.78cdeB

T3

-1.37

-1.31

-1.23

T1

0.55 aA

0.52 abB

0.47 abA

0.41 abA

0.32 abA

0.23 abA

0.13bA

T2

0.78

0.75

0.71

0.65

0.58

0.49

aA

0.41 aA

T3

0.64 aA

0.35 aA

0.27 aA

a

b

1 aA

aB

dA

aA

2

34.88

aA

abB

dA

aA

0.61 aA

3

34.12

abA

abcB

edA

aA

0.56 aA

4

33.64

5

31.73bA

30.06 abcB

29.23 bcB

28.26 cB

27.46

26.62

cdC

25.88 dB

-1.42 bcB

-1.27 abB

-1.11 bA

-1.67cdB

-1.55bcB

-1.39abB

-1.22aB

-1.14

-1.02

-0.89

-0.73aA

abcdB

bcdA

aA

0.5 aA

33.04

6 abA

abA

abA

bcdC

bcA

aA

0.43 aA

32.57

abA

Table 3: Effect of storage period (months) and treatments on Ascorbic acid content (mg/100g) of Spinach juice* 1

0

T1

43.51

T2

40.67 aA

36.19 aA

32.98 abA

27.63 bcA

23.39 cdA

19.03 dAB

15.84 dAB

T3

39.75 aA

37.28 abA

34.79 abcA

32.07 abcdA

29.68 bcdA

27.17 cdB

24.63 dB

aA

2

38.76

abA

3

34.37

bcA

4

6

Treatments

29.86

cdA

5

28.14

cdA

25.95

dA

22.65 dA

Table 4: Effect of storage period (months) and treatments on Total Phenols (mg/100g) of Spinach juice* Treatments

0

1

2

3

4

5

T1

68 aB

66aB

63 abA

59 bcB

55 cdB

51 deB

46 eB

T2

64

61

57

51

45

38

30 fA

T3

65 aA

aAB

abAB

63 abA

bA

60 bcA

cAB

57 cdA

dAB

52 dA

6 eAB

48 eA

42 fA

Table 5: Effect of storage period (months) and treatments on % Antioxidant activity of Spinach juice* 2

1

3

4

5

6

Treatments

0

T1

56.03

T2

49.92 aB

46.47 abB

42.02 bcB

38.68 cdB

33.26 deAB

28.06 efAB

23.95 fAB

T3

47.95 aB

44.23 abB

41.86 abcB

38.17 bcB

35.72 cdB

31.42 deB

27.69eB

aA

53.42

aA

49.89

abA

45.12

bcA

41.07

cdA

37.13

deA

32.73eA

* Data is expressed as means of three readings and values followed by different upper case or lower case letters are significantly different (p≤0.05) within columns and rows respectively

REFERENCES AOAC (2000) Official Methods of Analysis. 17th ed. Association of official Analytical Chemists, Washington. DC. Brand-Williams W, Cuvelier ME, Berset C(1995) Use of a free radical method to evaluate antioxidant activity. LWT-Food Sci Technol. 28: 25-30. Cvetković B R and. Jokanović M R (2009) Effect of preservation method and storage condition on ascorbic acid loss in beverages.Acta periodica technologica APTEFF, 40: 1-220. Halliwell B and Aruoma OI (1991). DNA damage by oxygen derived species: its mechanism and measurement in mammalian systems. FEBS Letters. 281: 9-19.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Heldman DR, Singh RP (1981) Food Process Engineering. AVI Publishing Co., New York. Hossain MN, Fakruddin M, Islam MN (2011) Effect of Chemical additives on the shelf life of Tomato juice. Amer J Food Technol. 6: 914-923. Kinh SAEH, Dunne CP, Hoover DG (2001) Preparation and preservation of apple pulp with chemical preservatives and mild heat. J Food Protect 28: 111-114. Klimczak I, Matecka M, Szlachta M, Gliszczynska- Swiglo A (2007) Effect of storage on the content of polyphenols, Vitamin C and the antioxidant activity of orange juices. J Food Compos Anal. 20: 313-22. Kulwal LV, Patwardhan MV and Sulladmath UV (1985). Studies on chemical changes and corrosion in canned products of papaya. Indian Food Packer 39: 33-37. Muhammad A, Ayub M , Zeb A , Durrani Y, Ullah J and Afridi SR (2011) Physicochemical analysis of apple pulp from Mashaday variety during storage Agric. Biol. J. N. Am. 2: 192-196 Ranganna S (1986) Handbook of Analysis and Quality Control for Fruit and Vegetable Product. Tata McGraw Hill Pub Co. Ltd., New Delhi, India. Singleton VL, Rossi JA (1965) Colorimetry of total phenolics with phosphomolybdic-phosphotungstic acid reagents. Amer J Enol Viticul 16: 144–53. Vallverdu-Queralt A, Arranz S, Medina-Remon A, Casals-Ribes I, Lamuela- Raventos RM (2011) Changes in phenolic content of tomato products during storage. J Agric Food Chem. 59: 9359-9365. http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-benefits-of-spinach-juice.htm

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” DO-X

ADVANCES IN THE PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY OF PHALAENOPSIS Narender Negi, S. R. Dhiman and *B. S. Dilta Department of Floriculture & Landscaping, Dr Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan - 173 230 *[email protected], [email protected] Orchidaceae, the perennial family of monocots, includes about 800 genera and 25,000-35,000 species and has to its credit of being the one of the largest assemblage of flowering plants. The family Orchidaceae accounts for above seven per cent of the species of flowering plants of the world (Pijl and Dodson, 1966). They are either epiphytic, terrestrial or lithophytes; a few are saprophytic, subterranean or semi-aquatic. Phalaenopsis and their related hybrids are the most common commercially produced flowering pot orchids. It is also called as the moth orchid. It is derived from the Greek words ‘Phalaena’ and ‘opsis’ meaning ‘resembling moth’. Phals are short stemmed monopodial orchids i.e. they exhibit indeterminate nature of growth without lateral branching. Phalaenopsis do not produce pseudo bulbs, but grow from a single rhizome from which new leaves are continually being produced at the apex. These leaves are thick, fleshy and broad. Phalaenopsis or moth orchids are epiphytic, Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) plants. Phalaenopsis are epiphytic by nature and cling to the tree trunks with stout, flattened aerial roots which will grow to several feet in length. Roots are with spongy tissues called velamen, which helps in absorption of moisture; tips of roots have chlorophyll thus contributing to photosynthesis (Rittershausen, 1979). It is a long, arching raceme with an indeterminate growth habit. The inflorescence usually emerges from the 3rd or 4th node. It stays on plant for 2 to 4 months (Bose et al., 1999). It has a zygomorphic (bilaterally symmetric) flower; a characteristic feature of the family Orchidaceae. The three sepals are similar is shape, size and colour. Petals are three in number; two are similar and the third petal is modified into labellum or a lip. The genus Phalaenospis has around 80 species and over 40,000 man-made hybrids, i.e. over 25 per cent of orchid hybrids are contributed by Phlaenopsis alone. Based on floral characters, Phalaenopsis can be broadly classified as grandiflora (cut flower) and multiflora (pot plant) types. Grandiflora types have long, arching inflorescence with large flowers, whereas, the multiflora types have short multiple inflorescence with numerous smaller sized flowers. Every year new cultivars/ hybrids of Phalaenopsis are adding to its group. For successful cultivation of Phalaenopsis different type of growing structures are used. Fan and pad system is suitable for tropical and subtropical area where summer temperature exceeds 35 ºC while growing Phalaenopsis in sub tropical to temperate region its requires heating system to protect plants from winter cold when temperature reduce beyond 10 ºC. Rajeevan (1995) reported that Kerala is one of the few places in the world where sophisticated infrastructure is not required for orchid cultivation. Negi (2012) studied the effect of two growing structure (top ventilated rain shelter and fan and pad system) on vegetative and floral characters and found that number of leaves, leaf number, leaf area were higher in top ventilated structure while percentage of flowering was higher in fan and pad system. Kaveriamma (2012) evaluated two varieties each of pot plant and cut flower under rain- shelter and fan and pad systems of greenhouse. Significant differences with regard to vegetative growth were observed between growing systems. Phalaenopsis are propagated in laboratories by tissue culture, and are usually grown in sealed flasks for 10 to 12 months under low light. Most commercial growers mix their own growing media and most of the mixes still contain bark, but they also have one or more other materials such as perlite, sphagnum peat, sphagnum moss and coconut husk chips, etc. that absorb water. Growing pots play very important in Phalaenopsis cultivation. Size of pots, opacity of pots, and type of pots are to be considered while selecting pots for Phalaenopsis cultivation. Plastic pots are convenient for handling and they last very long.The plants are held in centre position in empty pots and the substrate is then poured in around them. When potting the plants, it is important to ensure that they are vertical, located in the centre of the pot and planted at the correct height. Phalaenopsis requires a period of exposure to relatively moderate temperature (I. This may be due to higher fineness and hence more mass retained in same volume for grade III followed by II and I.

True density

True density of coriander powder under ambient and cryoground condition for cultivar RCR-41 and ACR-1 and their grades is presented in Figure 2. The true density was observed to be higher for cryoground coriander powder than that ground at ambient conditions for cultivar RCR-41 and ACR-1. An increase in true density was observed as grade III>II>I for coriander powder under ambient and cryoground conditions for both cultivars.

Porosity

Porosity of coriander powder under ambient and cryoground condition for cultivar RCR-41 and ACR-1 and their grade (I, II and III) is presented in Figure 3. Porosity was found to be lesser for cryoground coriander powder compared to that ground at ambient condition for cultivar RCR-41 and ACR-1. The reason may be due to more uniform packing of cryoground product due to more fineness compared to product obtained after ambient grinding. A difference in porosity of cultivar RCR-41 and ACR-1 was also observed for coriander powder under ambient and cryoground conditions. Higher porosity value was observed for grade I> II> III for coriander powder under ambient and cryoground conditions for cultivar RCR-41 and ACR-1.

Hunter color value

Hunter color value of coriander powder under ambient and cryoground conditions for cultivar RCR-41 and ACR-1 and their grades (I/II/III) is presented in Figure 4a, 4b, 4c. L, a and b value were found to be higher for cryoground coriander powder in comparison to that ground at ambient conditions. Cryogenic grinding has improved the yellowness index also whereas, ambient grinding produced darker color product. Similar results with improved yellowness indices for cryoground black pepper powder have been reported by Meghwal and Goswami (2010) and also stated that color is an important quality attribute to accept or reject the spices as it has direct effect in mind of consumer. The reason for lower L, a and b values for coriander powder ground at ambient condition may be the heat generated during conventional grinding process which might have produced darker color product.

Conclusion

Physical properties reveal that product with more fineness can be obtained using cryogenic grinding having better quality and handling of the product. Fineness of cryoground coriander powder also avoids flake formation during cooking. References Meghwal, Murlidhar, and Goswami, T.K. (2010). Cryogenic grinding of spices is a novel approach whereas ambient grinding needs improvement. Continental Journal of Food Science and Technology, 4: 24-37.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” DO-XVII

SOME PROBLEMS CONCERNING SUSTAINABILITY OF AGRICULURE Balwinder Singh Brar Department of Applied Sciences, Baba Farid College of Enggineering & Technology, Bathinda. E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Our country is basically an under-developed region of the world. The overall economic development can be pushed forward, if there is balanced development of the three basic sectors of the economy, viz, heavy industry, small scale industry, and agriculture. There is an organic relation among the development of the three basic aspects of the economy. The agriculture is the basis factor; heavy industry is the leading factor; and the small-scale industry is the bridging-factor between the agriculture and the heavy industry. Advancing on these lines, the over-all economic development of our country can be pushed forward in a satisfactory way. Such an economic development will certainly be sustainable. Central thrust of sustainable development is to develop, maintain, and advance the quality of human-life on a continuous basis. Sustainable agriculture is organic part of overall sustainable development. Central thrust of sustainable agriculture is to develop, maintain, and advance the quality of human-life of broad masses of peasantry, and hence of rural-life on a continuous basis. The factors on which crop productivity depends are : role of manure and chemical fertilizers; role of developing the local varieties/landraces ; putting more emphasis on bio-insecticides, bio-weedicides, bio-fungicides; enthusiasm of broad masses of peasantry; use of local resources; need for combining agro-ecological knowledge of both scientists and peasants; proper utilization of Nature, not degradation of Nature, moreover enrichment of Nature; conservation of water and soil; integrated concept in agriculture; and so on. There should a correct balance of the two aspects---- presence of organic matter and humus; and use of chemical fertilizers. Instead of developing high yielding varieties from our own original varieties/landraces, which were well-adapted to our own climate and environment over centuries, varieties were developed from foreign genotypes. The use of exotic high yielding varieties/hybrids required more and more irrigation and use of chemical fertilizers on the one hand, and on the other hand, being more prone to diseases due to quite different environment of our country, the crops grown from the use of such varieties needed more and more insecticides, pesticides, and fungicides. As a result, the soil-chemistry changed and problem of pollution of water and soil has become serious. Soil has become degraded leading to damage the productivity of soil. Cost of production has increased many-fold. Way out lies in developing the high yielding varieties/landraces from our own local varieties/landraces; striking a correct balance between organic matter and chemical fertilizers, restricting the use of chemical fertilizers and insecticides, pesticides, and fungicides as far as possible: putting more emphasis on bio-insecticides, bio-weedicides, bio-fungicides as compared to chemical-insecticides, chemical-weedicides, chemical-fungicides, or a combination of both; generating enthusiasm of broad masses of peasantry by implementing Land-Reforms thoroughly.

Introduction

Our country India is basically an under-developed region of the world. Here, national industrial development is too low, whole industrial sector is dominated by small scale industry, and this vast region is predominantly agrarian. For our country, the overall economic development can be pushed forward, if there is balanced development of the three basic sectors of the economy, viz, heavy industry, small scale industry, and agriculture. There is an organic relation among the development of the three basic aspects of the economy. The agriculture is the basis factor; heavy industry is the leading factor; and the small-scale industry is the bridging-factor between the agriculture and the heavy industry. Advancing on these lines, the over-all economic development of our country can be pushed forward in a satisfactory way. Such an economic development will certainly be sustainable. The World Commission on Environment (1988) defined sustainable development as development which meets the requirements of the present without compromising the ability of the future generations to meet their own requirements. The World Conservation Union (1991) defined sustainable development as improving the quality of human-life while living within the carrying-capacity of supporting eco-systems. Therefore, central thrust of sustainable development is to develop, maintain, and advance the quality of human-life on a continuous basis. Sustainable agriculture is organic part of overall sustainable development. The Technical Advisory Committee of the Consultative Group of Internal Agriculture Research (CGIAR) defined sustainable agriculture as successful management of resources for agriculture to satisfy changing human-needs while maintaining or enhancing the quality of environment

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” and conserving natural resources. Here also central thrust of sustainable agriculture is to develop, maintain, and advance the quality of human-life of broad masses of peasantry, and hence of rural-life on a continuous basis. Sustainability of overall development will assist the process of developing sustainability of agriculture; on the other hand, sustainability of agriculture will become the basis for advancing the process of sustainability of overall economic development.

Present Situation and Question of Sustainability of Agriculture

The factors on which crop productivity depends are : role of manure and chemical fertilizers; role of developing the local varieties/landraces; putting more emphasis on bio-insecticides, bio-weedicides, bio-fungicides; enthusiasm of broad masses of peasantry; use of local resources; need for combining agro-ecological knowledge of both scientists and peasants; proper utilization of Nature, not degradation of Nature, moreover enrichment of Nature; conservation of water and soil; integrated concept in agriculture; and so on. Due to various factors it may happen that there may be deficiency of various inorganic substances in the soil. As a result, to compensate this deficiency we require the addition of these in the form of chemical fertilizers. But there should a correct balance of the two aspects---- presence of organic matter and humus; and use of chemical fertilizers. The importance of manure is contained in the peoples wisdom in the form of an ancient Tamil proverb: “No fodder, no cattle; no cattle, no manure; no manure, no crop”. During these last 45 years since the beginning of Green Revolution until now, instead of developing high yielding varieties from our own original varieties/landraces, which were well-adapted to our own climate and environment over centuries, varieties were developed from foreign genotypes. The use of exotic high yielding varieties/hybrids required more and more irrigation and use of chemical fertilizers on the one hand, and on the other hand, being more prone to diseases due to quite different environment of our country, the crops grown from the use of such varieties/hybrids needed more and more insecticides, pesticides, and fungicides. As a result, the use of chemical fertilizers became more and more at the cost of organic matter and humus. The ruthless and one-sided use of chemical fertilizers, (ignoring and neglecting organic matter and humus), began to destroy the balanced soil chemistry. As a result, the soil began to become acidic or alkaline. The chemical fertilizers, insecticides, pesticides, and fungicides used on a large scale began to seep into the earth, to mingle with the ground water, and as a result the ground water began to get polluted on a large scale. The pollution of water and soil began to kill the friendly micro-organisms present in the soil, resulting in damaging the continuity of the transformation of organic matter into humus, which ultimately decomposes to give useful inorganic compounds to be assimilated by the crops. With the development of local varieties/landraces, the yield increases slowly and steadily, but without side-effects. As a result, soil also gets enrichment. It is observed that with the development of varieties from foreign genotypes, the yield increases not slowly and steadily, but increases with a sudden jump, but on reaching a certain stage, yield becomes stagnant. Also so many side-effects are involved. As a result, soil becomes degraded leading to damage the productivity of soil. Sideeffects are: soil-erosion, lowering of water-table, growth of plant-diseases, increased cost of production, change of soil chemistry (either acidic or basis or both), indebtedness of peasantry, environmental-pollution leading to human-diseases and animal-diseases.

Conclusion and Way-Out

As a result of all this, Indian agriculture has become stagnant, and broad masses of the peasantry have ruined or going to be ruined. Way out lies in: - - -

- - -

Developing the high yielding varieties from our own local varieties/landraces; Striking a correct balance between organic matter and chemical fertilizers, taking organic matter as the basis factor; Restricting the use of chemical fertilizers as far as possible; use of these must be need-based and not ruthless, these must be applied on the basis of concrete analysis of soil and the requirement of the crop/crops to be grown in various areas; Restricting the use of insecticides, pesticides, and fungicides as far as possible, develop these according to our concrete needs, so that the friendly micro-organisms would not be destroyed on a large scale. Putting more emphasis on bio-insecticides, bio-weedicides, bio-fungicides as compared to chemical-insecticides, chemical-weedicides, chemical-fungicides, or a combination of both. Generating enthusiasm of broad masses of peasantry by:

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” (a) (b) (c) (d)

by providing adequate land to the peasants; by providing loans at reasonable low interest-rates; by abolition of money-lenders (abolition of usury loans); by providing cheap agriculture inputs like chemical fertilizers, chemical-insecticides, chemical-weedicides, chemical-fungicides, petroleum products (diesel, lubricating oil, mobile-oil etc), machinery, and electricity. For this, national development of agro-industry is necessary. National development of agro-industry means that it should be independent from imperialist exploitation in any form and control. Otherwise due to the drainage of national-wealth via super-profits of imperialists will hinder the national development of agro-industry. (e) by making land-rent reasonable and not to be influenced by speculation. (f) by implementing Land-Reforms thoroughly; complete elimination of feudal relations of production; and abolition of landlordism in all old and new forms. - Need to organize the best optimal use of our resources including our rich and diverse flora and fauna in the context of limitations and constraints of land, water, and climate. - To make agriculture sustainable, there is also need to organize the major management practices effectively: soilmanagement; water resources management; rain-water management; integrated pest and disease management; and integrated weed management. References Lekhi, R.K. and Singh, Joginder (2006): “Agricultural Economics”, Kalyani Publishers, Ludhinana, 5th edition (2006). Reddy, SR (2008): “Principals of Crop production”, Kalyani Publishers, Ludhinana, 3rd edition (2008). Surekha, K. and Rao, K.V. (2009): “Direct and Residual Effects of Organic Sources on Rice Productivity and Soil Quality of Vertosols”, JISSS (Journal of the Inidan Society of Soil Sciences), vol. 57, No. 1, March. 2009, p. 53-57. Ghose, Kunal; Nayak, D. C. and Ahmed, Nayan (2009): “Soil Organic Matter”, JISSS (Journal of the Inidan Society of Soil Sciences), vol. 57, No. 1, March. 2009, p. 494-501. Rao, DLN and Patra, A.K. (2009): “Soil Microbial Diversity & Sustainable Agriculture”, JISSS (Journal of the Inidan Society of Soil Sciences), vol. 57, No. 4, Dec. 2009, p. 513-530. Sharma, K. L. and Mandal, Biswapati (2009): “Soil Quality and its Relevance for Sustainable Agriculture, JISSS (Journal of the Inidan Society of Soil Sciences), vol. 57, No. 4, Dec. 2009, p. 572-586. Dhillion, Hardial S. (2010): “Restoring Soil Fertility in Punjab”, published in The Tribune, 10th June 2010. Gill, Anita(2011): “Save Farmers From Debt Trap”, published in The Tribune, 19th February, 2011. Sharma, Vibha (2011): “Agriculture At Crossroads: Capital investment Needed”, published in The Tribune, 26th February, 2011. Lohumi, Bhanu P (2011): “Experts: Rise in GDP Rate Not Helping the Poor”, published in The Tribune, 11th March, 2011. Chhina, SS(2011): “Growth Without Jobs”, published in The Tribune, 11th November, 2011. Singh, SS and Singh, AK(2013): “Agronomic Research and Technological Development for Improving Agricultural Productivity in Eastern India”, published in Indian Farming, 63(9):3-7, December, 2013(A Journal of ICAR). Pooniya, Vijay; Choudhary, AK; Bana, RS; Puniya, MM (2013): “Biofertiliser As Low External Input for Sustainable Agricultural and Environmental Quality”, published in Indian Farming, 63(9):3-7, December, 2013(A Journal of ICAR). Johl, SS(2014): “Sir Chhotu Ram: Messiah of Peasants”, published in The Tribune, 04th February, 2014. Singh, Sukhpal(2014): “Making Direct Payments To Farmers”, published in The Tribune, 08th February, 2014.

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IDENTIFICATION OF QTLS FOR RICE GRAIN SIZE AND SHAPE IN EMS INDUCED RICE (ORYZA SATIVA L.) VARIETY NAGINA 22 AmandeepKaur* YogeshVikal and Kuldeep Singh School of Agricultural Biotechnology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004 E-mail: *[email protected]

Abstract

Grain size is the major determinant of yield and this trait can be exploited in breeding for development of high yielding rice varieties.In the present investigation to understand the genetics of EMS induced short grain mutant, N22_SGM, a cross was made between N22_SGM (short grain mutant) and IR64 (long grain)to generateF2 mapping population. The parents IR64, N22_SGM and N22 had grain length of 6.85, 4.33 and 5.59 mm and grain width of 2.02, 2.68 and 2.38 mm respectively. The range of grain length of F2 population fall between 4.47-7.56 mm whereas the grain width ranged from 1.57-2.80 mm.GL and GW in the F2 population exhibited a normal distribution, suggesting that both traits were controlled by polygenic gene loci. Parental polymorphism was surveyed using a set of 404 SSR between N22, N22_SGM and IR64. A total of 121 (29.95%) were polymorphic out of which 70 SSR markers were genotyped on 85 F2plants. Both phenotypic data and genotypic data was analyzed to generate linkage maps and the total map length was 867.5cM.TwoQTLs for grain width (qGW3.1, qGW3.2) found on chromosome 3 and three QTLs for grain length (qGL3.1,qGL3.2 and qGL7.1) were found on chromosome 3 and 7. The others QTLs for various agronomic traits were also found like percent fertility, fertile grains per panicle, sterile grains per panicle, panicle size on different chromosomes. The identified QTLs can be further fine mapped and dissected to candidate genes for exploitation in breeding programs to bred high grain yield. Keywords: Oryzasativa, SSR markers, QTLs AP-2

MARKER-ASSISTED INTROGRESSION OF OPAQUE2 GENE INTO NON-QPM MAIZE INBRED LINES S Lata1*, SK Guleria1, TR Sharma1, Kalpna Thakur1 and Reena Kumari1 1CSKHPKV, Palampur-176062, Himachal Pradesh, India E-mail:[email protected]

Abstract

Development of the medium maturity QPM inbreds for the production of QPM hybrids with higher level of lysine and tryptophan content. Normal inbred of promising medium maturity hybrid, EHL 161708 (BAJIM-08-27) was targeted for conversion into high quality protein maize (QPM). The cross was attempted between BAJIM-08-27 (non-QPM) and CML193 (QPM donors) to get heterozygous plants (F1). Foreground selection of the F1’s was done using phi057 SSR marker. The selected heterozygotes were backcrossed with recipient parent to generate backcrossed population. Biochemical analysis for tryptophan content in endosperm protein was determined using method given by Mertz et al. (1975). The marker phi057 identified 98 heterozygotes in a population of 215 BC1. The selected single recombinants were subjected to whole genome background selection in BC2F1. The plants showing 90% recurrent parent genome recovery were selfed to generate BC2F2 generation and surveyed for homozygous opaque2( o2) locus and then selfed to get BC2F3 generation. The BC2F3 seeds were phenotypically evaluated for kernel modification and tryptophan concentration. Kernels with less than 25% opaqueness were selected over 25–50% and more than 50% opaqueness. The tryptophan concentration in endosperm protein was significantly enhanced as compared to original recipient line. An integrated strategy of phenotypic selection for endosperm modifiers coupled with marker-assisted selection for o2 allele significantly reduces time for the conversion of non-QPM line into QPM line.

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MARKER-ASSISTED IMPROVEMENT OF BACTERIAL BLIGHT RESISTANCE IN HUR 4-3, A HIGH YIELDING POPULAR RICE CULTIVAR OF UTTAR PRADESH PRAKASH SINGH1*, RAVI P. SINGH1, O.N. SINGH2, H.B. SINGH3, C. MOHAPATRA3 AND M. K. SINGH1 1 Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Institute of Agricultural sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India, 2 Crop Improvement Division, Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, Odisha 753006, India, 3 Department of Mycology and Plant Pathology, Institute of Agricultural sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India * Author for Correspondence: E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

In rice, pyramiding dominant and recessive bacterial leaf blight resistance genes with the help of Marker Assisted Selection (MAS) technique was accomplished to improve conventional susceptible inbred varieties. Therefore, incorporation of resistance genes Xa21 and xa13 through MAS were attempted in the popular fine grain rice cultivar of Eastern Uttar Pradesh namely HUR 4-3. HUR 4-3, is susceptible to bacterial leaf blight (BLB) disease caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae. Pusa 1460, a basmati rice variety, was utilized as the donor for introgressing Bacterial Blight resistance genes xa13 and Xa21 into HUR 4-3 using a marker assisted backcross breeding programme. The markers RG136 (CAPS) or xa13p (gene based SSR) and pTA248 (STS) primer linked to BB resistance genes xa13 and Xa21, respectively, were used for foreground selection. Seventy-eight SSR markers polymorphic between HUR 4-3 and Pusa 1460 were utilized for background selection to recover the recurrent parent genome ranging from 84.14 to 95.20% in the 12 best selected BC2F2 plants. The extent of donor segments in the improved version of HUR 4-3 was estimated to be 0.93 and 2.17 Mb in the genomic regions flanking xa13 and Xa21, respectively in the corresponding genomic regions. Improved lines of HUR 4-3 showed yield advantages of up to 6.94 to 3.93%, respectively. The performance of the BB-resistant version of HUR 4-3 produced by intercrossing the improved lines of Pusa 1460 was on a par with or superior to the original HUR 4-3. Keywords: Genomic region, polymorphic, bacterial blight resistance, SSR marker, AP-4

THE STUDIES ON DNA METHYLATION FOR CROPS IMPROVEMENT Ravindra Donde,* Jitendra Kumar, Prakash Singh,Dr. S. K.Dash, Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack-753006. Email:*[email protected]

Abstract

The new findings shows that changes in the climate are severely affects the crops and organisms developments, adaptation and their gene expression in new environments. In response to studies on the epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation and histone modification, play a crucial role in regulating gene expression in plant responses to environment stress (Razin and Cedar, 1992; Boyko et al., 2007; Boyko and Kovalchuk, 2008). Environmental stimuli such as drought, salinity, cold, high temperature and water stress can cause demethylation at coding regions of certain genes and subsequently activate their expression.Specific gene expression patterns under epigenetic control are reversible and may show transgenerational inheritance (Bender, 2004; Long et al., 2006; Zhao et al., 2007).DNA methylation within genes is a common feature of eukaryotic genomes (Tranet al., 2005).DNA methylation is a biochemical process frequently occurs in presence of DNA methyltransferase enzymes.DNA methylation at 5-position of cytosine, yielding5-methylcytosine or the number 6 nitrogen of the adenine purine ring. Under normal conditions, the ratio of methylated to total cytosine’svaries from 20% to 30% in plants (Finnegan et al., 1998), andmethyl cytosine usually occurs in CpG, CpNpG and CpHpH (H=A, T, C) sequences (Cao and Jacobsen, 2002; Zhanget al., 2006). Arabidopsis DNA methyltransferase enzymes, which transfer covalently attach methyl groupsonto DNA, i.e. DRM2, MET1, and CMT3. Both the DRM2 and MET1 proteins also present in mammalian homology methyltransferases i.e. DNMT3 and DNMT1 respectively, whereas the CMT3 protein is unique to theplant kingdom. DNA methyltransferases enzymes torecognize the methylation marks onthe parental strand of DNA and transfers new methylation to the daughter’s strands after DNA replication. DRM2 isthe only enzyme that has been implicated as a de novo DNA methyltransferase. MET1 and CMT3 to be involved in maintaining methylation marks through DNA

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” replication.DNA methylation is typically removed during zygote formation and re-established through successive cell divisions during development. DNA methylation suppresses the expression of viral genes. Thus DNA methylation plays crucial role in the crops improvements it directly or indirectly controlled the gene expression i.e. short methylated genes are poorly expressed, and loss of methylation in the body of a gene leads to enhanced transcription. DNA methylation induced epigenetic changes in crops genome can be considered as a very important regulatorymechanism for plants to adopt biotic and abiotic environmental stresses. Key words: DNA methylation, Epigenetic, Gene expression, Crop improvements. AP-5

ASSESSMENT OF DROUGHT TOLERANCE IN SUNFLOWER HYBRIDS Vikrant Tyagi* and S. K. Dhillon Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, PAU, Ludhiana E.mail: *[email protected]

Abstract

Sunflower is an important oilseed crop and in Punjab it is cultivated as a spring season crop. It is classified as low to medium drought sensitive crop. The present research was carried out at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, during spring season 2011 and 2012. A total of thirteen CMS lines comprising nine different alloplasmic CMS lines (belong to different wild sources) and four CMS lines from cultivated CMS source PET-1 were crossed with four common restorer lines to generate a set of fifty two hybrids (synthesized in offseason 2011 and 2012). These hybrids were evaluated using a randomized block design with three replications to assess their performance for grain yield under two environments (normal irrigation and water stress). In stress environment the irrigation was stopped after the anthesis was complete. The pooled data over the years was recorded on grain yield under both the environments and the stress susceptibility index values were calculated. The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the hybrids for grain yield under both the environments. Hybrid PRUN-29A × RCR-8297 (1.55) and 40A × P100R (1.55) had the maximum Stress tolerance index (STI) value and hybrid ARG-2A × P69R recorded the lowest value (a high STI rate for the genotype represents its high drought resistance and its high yielding potential). The hybrid ARG-6A × P69R (2.41) recorded the highest value of Stress susceptibility index (SSI), while hybrid E002-91 × RCR-8297 (0.13) recorded the minimum (resistant) value for SSI indicating susceptibility of the hybrid ARG-6A × P69R to drought. In terms of Yield stability index (YSI), the hybrid 40A × RCR-8297 (0.51), ARG-6A × P69R (0.51) and hybrid ARG-2A × P69R (1.18) had the highest and the lowest values respectively (genotypes with high YSI are expected to yield high in stress conditions. Hybrid 40A × RCR-8297 (30.36) and PRUN-29A × P69R (-10.07) displayed the minimum and the maximum values of tolerance index (TOL), a high amount of TOL is a sign of genotype susceptibility to stress. Hybrid PRUN-29A × P69R (1.53) displayed the least extent of yield index (YI), while hybrid ARG-6A × P69R (0.51) and 40A × RCR-8297 (0.51) displayed the highest extent. Correlation coefficients were used to identify the best criterion for selecting drought tolerant genotypes. Results indicate that seed yield was significantly and positively associated with SSI (0.356**), TOL (0.522**), STI (0.834**) and YI (0.524**), while significant negative correlation was observed with YSI (-0.359**) under normal environment. But, under stress environment significant positive correlations was recorded between seed yield and STI (0.901**), YI (1.000**) and YSI (0.581**), while negative association with SSI (-0.585**) and TI (-0.450**). All these indices also observed positive and negative relationship with each other. According to previous studies, a suitable index must have a significant association with yield in both stressed and non-stressed states. Indices SSI, TOL, STI and YI were highly significantly correlated with each other as well as with seed yield under stress and normal environment. The hybrid E002-91 × RCR-8297 was observed stable for both environments, PRUN-29A × P69R good performing under stress environment while, hybrids E002-91 × P100R and ARG-6A × P69R were recorded best performing under normal environment.

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GROWTH AND YIELD IN CHICKPEA (CICER ARIETINUM L.) GENOTYPES IN RESPONSE TO WATER STRESS Navkiran Randhawa*, Jagmeet Kaur, Sarvjeet Singh and Inderjit Singh Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, 141001, Punjab, India Email: *[email protected])

Abstract

Field experiment was conducted to investigate the influence of water stress treatments imposed at varied growth stages viz. T1; irrigated, T2; sown with one pre-sowing irrigation, T3; irrigation withholded at flower-initiation, T4; irrigation withholded at pod-initiation in chickpea genotypes. Twenty chickpea (GL21107, GL22044, GL26054, GL26074, GL281137, GL28151, GL28186, GNG1594, GNG1861, DCP 92-3, GG1362, RSG811, RVSSG4, RSG963, RSG957, BGM547, PDG3, PDG4, PBG1, GPF2) genotypes were grown under rainout shelter in field area of Plant Breeding and Genetics Department. Growth parameters were studied at 120 days after sowing, while yield traits were recorded at maturity. Restricted irrigation had prominent effect on plant height, number of branches, biomass, leaf number, leaf area, leaf area index, yield and yield traits viz. 100 seed weight, total number of pods, percentage filled pods, causing significant reduction over control, however genotype and treatment interactions were observed to be non-significant in 100-seed weight and percentage filled pods. Among studied treatments, T2 sown with one presowing irrigation was most adversely affected. The grain yield under stress treatment T2 was reduced by 55.91% over control. Under water stress conditions, genotypes GL28151, RSG963, PDG3 maintained higher growth attributes, yield and yield traits showing their tolerance, while GL22044, RSG1861 and RVSSG4 were identified as water stress sensitive genotypes. Keywords: Chickpea, genotypes, treatments, water stress AP-7

STUDIES ON EFFECT OF HEAT STRESS ON VIGOUR PARAMETERS IN HEAT TOLERANT AND SUSCEPTIBLE WHEAT VARIETIES ARUN KUMAR* AND RPS KHARB Department of Seed Science and Technology CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004 Email: *[email protected] / [email protected]

Abstract

Wheat is the second most important cereal crop of India. It is a cool season crop. In India wheat is being cultivated on the area of 29.9 mha with a production of 93.9 mt and productivity of 3.14t/ha. The newly developed wheat varieties attained the production potential about 6 t /ha, whereas the national productivity remained at 3.14 t/ha. High seed germination and vigour are pre- requisites for the success of stand establishment of crop plants which leads to higher yield. Generally stress (heat/moisture) has deleterious effect on germination and vigour of crop particularly during reproductive phase. Keeping this in the mind a study was conducted to see the effect of heat stress on heat tolerant as well as susceptible varieties. It was observed that physiological maturity (PM) for late sown for both heat tolerant and susceptible variety have been reached at 145 DAS or 36 DAA and for late sown it was 121 DAS or 34 DAA, means for late sown the PM stage has been reached by some 24 days earlier than normal sown. Vigour is higher for late sown condition in comparison to normal sown condition for both heat tolerant and susceptible variety at PM. However, vigour indices were higher for heat susceptible variety in comparison to heat tolerant variety in both normal and late sown conditions. The study can suggest that if seed production is purpose then it will better to go for late sown condition for both the heat tolerant as well as susceptible variety.

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STUDIES ON EFFECT OF HEAT STRESS ON VIGOUR PARAMETERS IN HEAT TOLERANT AND SUSCEPTIBLE WHEAT VARIETIES ARUN KUMAR* AND RPS KHARB Department of Seed Science and Technology CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004 Email: *[email protected] / [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Wheat is the second most important cereal crop of India. It is a cool season crop. In India wheat is being cultivated on the area of 29.9 mha with a production of 93.9 mt and productivity of 3.14t/ha. The newly developed wheat varieties attained the production potential about 6 t /ha, whereas the national productivity remained at 3.14 t/ha. High seed germination and vigour are pre- requisites for the success of stand establishment of crop plants which leads to higher yield. Generally stress (heat/moisture) has deleterious effect on germination and vigour of crop particularly during reproductive phase. Keeping this in the mind a study was conducted to see the effect of heat stress on heat tolerant as well as susceptible varieties. It was observed that physiological maturity (PM) for late sown for both heat tolerant and susceptible variety have been reached at 145 DAS or 36 DAA and for late sown it was 121 DAS or 34 DAA, means for late sown the PM stage has been reached by some 24 days earlier than normal sown. Vigour is higher for late sown condition in comparison to normal sown condition for both heat tolerant and susceptible variety at PM. However, vigour indices were higher for heat susceptible variety in comparison to heat tolerant variety in both normal and late sown conditions. The study can suggest that if seed production is purpose then it will better to go for late sown condition for both the heat tolerant as well as susceptible variety. AP-9

ABIOTIC STRESS MANAGEMENT IN VIEW OF SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION Navjot Singh Brar, 1Naval Kishor Kamboj, 1Pravin Kumar Sharma, 2Baldeep Singh and 2Sukhdeep Singh 1 Department of Vegetable Science, 2Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar- 125004 Email: *[email protected]

1

Abstract

The term stress can be stated to be a set of conditions that cause an aberrant change in physiological process that adversely influence growth. Abiotic stresses such as drought, frost, heat, excess water and salinity result in losses in yield and quality of crops. These stresses also limit the areas that can be cultivated because of yield instability and crop loss. Global warming models predict erratic weather patterns making the impact of these stresses more severe and unpredictable. As per the report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) the net increase in temperature is likely to be 5.8 degrees Celsius by 2100 AD. This is likely to impact a series of inter-related environmental systems like global hydro-eco-systems, sea level, crop production and related agricultural activities. Agriculture, and the techniques of cultivation employed in a particular region also affect the rate outcome of climate change. In fact, agriculture itself is a major contributor to climate change as it involves process 1ike deforestation, desertification, higher use of fuels and fertilizers which might contribute to increase nitrogen concentration in earth’s atmosphere. Two general approaches can be undertaken to develop strategies for sustainable production in a changing climate are: (a) Understanding and exploiting the genetic and physiological variations that exist in the germplasm in relation to abiotic stresses (i.e. mining the germplasm). Study should be aim at identifying physiological and genetic traits that are linked to abiotic stresses. For example a Phytohormones and number of genes encoding proteins such as thermal induced proteins (Heat shock proteins, HSP) Oxidation induced proteins and anaerobically stimulated proteins (Alcohol dehydrogenase, ADH) have been studied in relation to abiotic stress resistance. (b) Develop production practices such as a forestation, drip irrigation system etc., for mitigating the impact of abiotic stresses. Before these approaches can be implemented it is necessary to understand the physiological and genetic mechanisms for plant responses to environmental stresses such as mechanism of injury and survival by abiotic stresses and

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” acclimatization to abiotic stresses. Thus, these approaches need to be given utmost priority at this point of time as it will not only provide an insight to the mechanism of plant response to abiotic stresses but they may also provide practical means for sustainable agricultural production. AP-10

COMPARATIVE RESPONSE OF SIX WHEAT GENOTYPES TO HEAT AND DROUGHT STRESS SHASHI BALA*1, BAVITA ASTHIR1, N.S. BAINS2 1Department of Biochemistry, 2Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana – 141004, India E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) represents about 30% of the world’s cereal area, with over 220 million ha cultivated worldwide is often under heat stress. Presently, India contributes approximately 15% of global wheat production but it is anticipated that heat stress accompanied by drought can reduce grain yield by 4 % for every 1°C rise in temperature. The objective of this experiment was to determine the effect of heat and drought stress on physiological parameters in relation to yield. Six wheat genotypes (PBW 621, PBW 175, PBW 343, PBW 550, HD 2967, C 306) were evaluated under heat and drought stress. Raising the crop under late planting conditions leads to terminal heat stress and drought was created by withholding water. Heat and drought stress caused reduction in plant height, tiller no, ear weight and thousand grain weights in all the studied cultivars. Heat stress caused maximum reduction in plant height in PBW 343 and PBW 550 while minimum reduction was in HD 2967 and PBW 621 and C 306. Heat stress caused more reduction in tiller no as compare to drought stress. Maximum reduction in thousand grain weight was in cultivar PBW 343 and PBW 550 while minimum reduction was in PBW 621 and C 306 under drought and heat stress. The results indicated that both the stresses caused significant reduction for all physiological parameters but high temperature has more impact in comparison to drought. AP-11

Variations Among Rice Landraces In Terms of Abiotic Stress Tolerance At Phenotypic And Genotypic Level Bharathkumar S., Pragnya P.J., Jitendra K., Archana B., Singh O.N. and Reddy J.N. Crop Improvement Division, Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack -753006, India Author for correspondence: [email protected]

Abstract

Rice landraces are the groups of lineages that originated and evolved in the field over millennia through selective breeding by generations of farmers. Each landrace has particular properties or characteristics; early maturity, adaptation to particular soil types, resistance or tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses, and in the expected end usage of the grains. India is home to many such landraces and beginning from the 1960s, a large number of these landraces have been replaced with modern varieties introduced over the past four decades. In the present study, number of one hundred-twenty four landraces of rice was screened for detection of tolerance to various abiotic stresses. In submergence screening, from these landraces, we selected a number of 19 landraces as submergence tolerant in the range of 60-100 per cent survival rate. Furthermore, in molecular analysis for checking multiple abiotic stress tolerance, we documented the presence of gene specific alleles which are associated with various abiotic stresses such as salinity, drought, cold and heat in these landraces and we identified the association of a single genotype with more than one stress tolerance. In this analysis, we recorded only a few genotypes (6) associated with tolerance to three or four abiotic stresses (such as submergence, salinity, drought, cold and heat) as well as more number of genotypes for single stress (i.e. 19 genotypes to salinity, 43 genotypes to drought, 54 genotypes to cold and 60 genotypes to heat stress). In this analysis, we found various combinations of stress tolerance in these genotypes i.e. 33 genotypes for cold and heat, 19 genotypes for drought and cold, 15 genotypes for salt and cold, 13

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” genotypes for drought and heat, 12 genotypes for salt and heat, 6 genotypes for submergence and heat/submergence and drought, 5 genotypes for submergence and cold/salt and drought, 1 genotype for submergence and salt stress. This analysis is provided the genetic information of rice landraces in order to understand the feasibility for usage as well as combination of QTL/genes to help in rice breeding programme. Key words: Rice landraces, multiple abiotic stress tolerance, gene-specific marker, quantitative trait locus. AP-12

Stability Analysis in Taramira In Three Environment conditions (Eruca sativa Mill.) Babu Lal Jat1, M.L. Jakhar2 Ph.D Scholar, Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India Email Id. [email protected] 2 Professor, Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India 1

ABSTRACT

Forty-two genotypes of taramira (Eruca sativa Mill.) were evaluated for genetic parameters of variation and stability of yield and its related traits over three different environments created by three dates of sowing during Rabi 2009–2010. Environment-wise analysis of variance revealed that in first environment significant differences were observed for all the characters except oil content, in second environment significant differences were observed for all the characters except seed yield and test weight, where as in third environment, days to maturity showed non-significant difference. The stability analysis following Eberhart and Russell model revealed that based on stability parameters the genotypes RTM-619, RTM715 and RTM-751 were found suitable for optimum sowing conditions. Genotypes RTM-603, RTM-644,RTM-673, RTM707, RTM-754 and RTM-781 were found stable and desirable, therefore, these genotypes should be used in hybridisation programme to get segregantes, which will also be high yielding. Keywords: Genotype, Genotype x environment interaction, Taramira, Stability. environments AP-13

SCREENING OF MUSKMELON GENOTYPES FOR DROUGHT TOLERANE THROUGH OSMOTI STRESS INDUCED BY POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL (PEG)-6000 Sheshnath Mishra* KantiLal Solanki*, Dr.ShekharBhargav and Dr. A.K. Sharma * Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, SKRAU, Bikaner-334006 E-mail: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

A set of 10 genotypes of CucumismeloL. (muskmelon) were screened for drought tolerance using PEG-6000 under invitro conditions. Seeds were sown in tubes on Paper Bridge, made by using what mannumber two filter paper and saturated with 1/4th MS media and 16/8 hours light/dark photoperiod and 2500-3000 lux light intensity. Stress conditions were created by supplying 10 ml PEG-6000 (8%) to each tube. Observations were taken on root length, shoot length and days taken in germination of seeds. The root length, shoot length an overall decreasing trend with increasing unstressed plants. Simulation of all these parameters indicated that out of ten genotypes of muskmelon only two genotypes IIHR-RM-380 and IIHR-RM-595 showed drought tolerant.

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PERFORMANCE OF PEARL MILLET GENOTYPES IN TERMS OF PHENOLOGY AND YIELD UNDER DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTS Arvind Kumar Yadav*, Anil Kumar, R D Jat and K M Choudhary *Ccs Haryana Agricultural Universiyt Hisar Email: [email protected]

Abstract

The present experiment was conducted at Research Farm Area of Crop Physiology, Department of Agronomy, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during kharif seasons of 2011 and 2012 to study the four genotypes viz. HHB 67 Improved, HHB 197, HHB 223, and HHB 234 under two environments viz. rain fed and irrigated were tested in factorial randomized block design with three replications. Results showed that all the phenological events including 50% flowering and maturity were early under rain fed condition than irrigated situation except days taken to emergence and five leaf stage. Among the genotypes, HHB 67 ‘Improved’ was earliest to reach various phenophases than all other genotypes. The grain yield under irrigated condition was higher compared to rainfed environment and increase was 28.4% under irrigated condition. The interaction effect between environment x genotypes for grain yield was found significant. The genotypes behaved differently under two environments. Interaction effect showed that maximum grain yield was recorded by the genotype HHB 223 under the irrigated environment whereas under rain fed situation, this genotype had the lowest yield. Under rain fed situation, HHB 234 (26.72 q ha-1) was highest yielder than all other genotypes. AP-15

HETEROSIS FOR YIELD AND ITS ATTRIBUTING TRAITS IN CUCUMBER (CUCUMIS SATIVUS L.) P.S. BRAR*, GURPREET SINGH, AND R.K.DHALL Department of Vegetable Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004 *Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Eight genetically divergent inbred lines were crossed in a diallel pattern excluding reciprocal during April-May of 2007. The experimental material consisted of eight inbred parents, twenty eight hybrids and one check (Punjab Naveen) was replicated thrice in a randomized complete block design to check the performance. Cross combination of ACC-1 X ACC-4 and ACC-2 x ACC-6 showed 39.25 and 32.23 heterosis for yield over standard check, respectively. Key Words: Cucumber, Diallel, Heterosis, Yield. AP-16

HETEROSIS STUDIES FOR YIELD AND WATER USE EFFICIENCY IN FORAGE SORGHUM [SORGHUM BICOLOR (L.) MOENCH] Minal Goyal, R.K. Bajaj and B.S.Gill Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India. email: [email protected]

Abstract

Sorghum is an important fodder crop of Punjab during Kharif season. There is deficiency of fodder during this season and increase in productivity through hybrid breeding is a viable solution. The topcross offers some advantages over single cross hybrids and are easy to breed. Water stress is one of the major causes for crop losses worldwide, Therefore, the

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” present investigation was planned to study the worthfulness of top cross hybrids for the improvement of yield and water use efficiency (WUE) through assessing the extent of heterosis for these traits. For this purpose 15 male sterile lines were crossed to four random mating populations to generate 60 topcrosses and heterosis over respective male parents was estimated for forage yield and physiological traits affecting WUE in 2012. Eighteen crosses exhibited positive heterosis for green fodder yield ranging upto 24.7%. These crosses involved the cms lines viz., 94003A, 940012A, NSS1002A, NSS1007A, 2077A and AKMS-14A with HC308 as pollinator 940056A, 2077A, NSS1007A and NSS1008A with Ramkel as pollinator NSS1008A, NSS1006A, 94003A, 2077A, AKMS-14A, AKMS27-A, NSS1005A and 94002A with RSSV-9 as pollinator. Twenty-two crosses expressed positive heterosis upto 57.4% for dry fodder yield. For relative leaf water content heterosis ranged up to 25.8% and was exhibited by 34 top crosses. A similar trend was observed for leaf area index where 44 top crosses manifested positive heterosis ranged upto 483.0%. Thirty four top crosses showed maximum positive heterosis for photosynthetic capacity upto 46.4%. Heterosis ranged upto 107.3% for specific leaf weight and 425% for proline content manifested by 34 and 39 hybrids, respectively. The presence of considerable amount of heterosis over male parents proved that the top cross hybrids were better than their respective male parents and can be considered for further evaluation in the future breeding programs. AP-17

GENETICS OF SOME HORTICULTURAL TRAITS IN MUSKMELON (CUCUMISMELO L.) Nirmal Singh*,V.K. Vashisht Department of Vegetable Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004, India *[email protected]

Abstract

Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) is an important cucurbitaceous crop relished for its sweet taste. The present investigation was aimed at the mode of inheritance of some horticultural traits in muskmelon by evaluating biparental progenies (BIPs) which were developed and statistically analyzed by North Carolina Design-III. The sixteen BIPs of two crosses, IC-274014 × Punjab Sunehri and IC-274014 × MM-28 were evaluated.For node at which first pistillate flower opens, the BIPS of cross IC-274014 × Punjab Sunehri showed that additive genetic variance was highly significant but variance due to dominance was non-significant. The average degree of dominance was less than one. For polar diameter of fruit, both additive genetic variance and dominance variance were significant but the value of additive genetic variance was more than double to that of dominance variance. The average degree of dominance was nearly one but the value of additive genetic variance was highly significant and variance due to dominance was non-significant for equatorial diameter of fruit. The average degree of dominance was less than one.Vine length results were obtained in value of additive genetic variance and dominance variance were highly significant but the value of additive genetic variance was more than the dominance variance. The average degree of dominance was more than one. Similarly, the BIPs of cross IC-274014 × MM-28, exhibited significant additive genetic variance but variance due to dominance was non-significant and the average degree of dominance was less than one for node at which first pistillate flower opens. But additive genetic variance was highly significant and dominance variance was non-significant in case of polar diameter of fruit. The average degree of dominance was less than one. For equatorial diameter of fruit, additive genetic variance was significant and dominance variance was highly significant. The average degree of dominance was more than one but in case of vine length, additive genetic variance and dominance variance were significant but additive genetic variance was higher than the dominance variance. The average degree of dominance was equal to one.

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GENETIC VARIABILITY, HERITABILITY AND GENETIC ADVANCE IN TOMATO (Solanum lycopersicum L.) GENOTYPES UNDER PROTECTED ENVIRONMENT Parveen Sharma, Yashi Sadhwi, Vidyasagar, Pardeep Kumar and Neelam Bhardwaj* Department of Vegetable Science and Floriculture, CSKHPKV, Palampur – 176062 E-mail: *[email protected]

ABSTRACT

India is the second largest vegetable producer after China with 11% production share in the world. It is second largest producer of tomato followed by potato at global level. Tomato is a premier vegetable crop of round the year and one of the prominent eco-industrial crops of India generating sizeable employment. Ripe fresh tomato fruit is consumed fresh as salads and consumed after cooking and utilized in the preparation of range of processed products such as puree, paste, powder, ketchup, sauce, soup and canned whole fruits. Unripe green fruits are used for preparation of pickles and chutney. Tomatoes are important source of lycopene (an antioxidant), ascorbic acid and β-carotene and valued for their colour and flavour. Considering the potential of this crop, there is a need for genetic improvement and to develop varieties suited to specific agro-ecological conditions for open and protected cultivation. A thorough knowledge regarding the amount of genetic variability existing for various characters is essential for initiating the crop improvement programme. The present study was aimed to investigate the yield and quality traits in tomato in order to generate information regarding the extent of genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance in Solanum lycopersicum L. The experiment was laid under Randomized Block Design with three replications at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, Palampur in 2011-12 to investigate the genetic variability among fourteen hybrids. Analysis of coefficient of variation revealed that magnitude of phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than genotypic coefficient of variation for all the characters under study. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for number of marketable fruits per plant, total number of fruits per plant, marketable yield per plant, gross yield per plant, plant height, number of nodes, plant survival and acidity indicates the presence of additive gene action and these traits are likely to respond better to selection based on phenotypic performance. Low heritability in combination with low genetic advance was observed for days to first harvest, pericarp thickness and TSS content which means these characters are more under the influence of non-additive gene action do not respond to selection. For the remaining traits, heritability estimates were high to moderate coupled with moderate to low genetic advance. AP-19

GENETIC VARIABILITY, CHARACTER ASSOCIATION AND GENETIC DIVERGENCE IN OKRA (ABELMOSCHUS ESCULENTUS L. MOENCH.) Pravin Kumar Sharma, Amit Kumar Pandey, G.C. yadav and Pankaj Rai Department of Vegetable Science, N.D. University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Faizabad-224 229 (U.P.) India Email: *[email protected]

Abstract

The present investigation was executed at Main Experiment Station of Department of Vegetable Science, Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar (Kumarganj), Faizabad. During kharif, 2012, to assess variability, heritability and genetic advance for quantitative characters, estimate correlation coefficients among the important economic traits and, find out the direct and indirect effect of yield components on yield by path coefficient analysis and judge the genetic divergence within the genotypes for various quantitative traits. Experiment material for the study was consisted of 24 genotypes including four checks (Pusa Sawani, Arka Anamika, Arka Abhay and VRO-6). The experiment was conducted in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Each treatments consisted of 18 plants in two row, having spacing of 60 cm x 30 cm. Observations were recorded on ten quantitative characters viz.,

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), primary branches per plant, nodes per plant, days to first harvest, fruits per plant, fruit length (cm), fruit circumference (cm), fruit weight (g) and fruit yield per plant (g). The analysis of variance for the design of experiment indicated highly significant differences among the genotypes for all the characters. Based on mean performance of genotypes NDO-29 followed by NDO-52,and NDO-33 were found as most promising genotypes for fruit yield per plant. High magnitude of variability were observed in case of fruit yield per plant followed by primary branches per plant, average fruit weight, fruit length, fruits per plant, plant height and. Days to 50 per cent flowering exhibited low value of variability. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance in per cent of mean were observed in case fruit yield per plant followed by average fruit weight, plant height, fruit length and fruit per plant indicating opportunity for selection response. The fruit weight, fruit length and fruits per plant and primary branches plant showed positive and desirable association with fruit yield and selection of these traits would be effective for yield improvement in okra. The highest magnitude of positive effect showed major contribution towards yield per plant was exerted by fruit weight. While substantial positive indirect effect were exerted by fruit per plant and negative indirect effect exerted by days to 50% flowering towards fruit yield per plant. AP-20

GENETIC DIVERSITY IN PIGEONPEA (CAJANUS CAJAN L.) USING RAPD ANALYSIS Grover Sheetanshu and Grewal Satvir Kaur Department of Biochemistry, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India 146004 Email : *[email protected]

Abstract

10 pigeonpea genotypes (AL 1770, AL 1495, AL 1747, AL 1735, AL 201, AL 15, AL 1755, AL 1677, AL 1753 and PAU 881) were obtained from Pulses Section, Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. Young shoots from one-week old seedlings were ground in excess liquid nitrogen and plant genomic DNA was extracted using CTAB method. 20 RAPD primers obtained from Operon Biotechnologies, Germany were used for DNA amplification. The amplified PCR products were resolved using horizontal electrophoresis unit. Resolving powers and Polymorphic Information Content (PIC) values were calculated to test the efficiency of these parameters in identifying primers that could best distinguish the cultivars. 128 bands were produced with 20 primers, out of which 102 are polymorphic, with 81.9% polymorphism. Number of bands produced with RAPD primers varied from 3 to 13, average being 6.4. Ten out of twenty primers gave 100% polymorphism. Jaccard similarity coefficient ranged from 0.38679 to 0.83505. A dendrogram constructed based on the UPGMA clustering method revealed two major clusters. Genetic diversity among pigeon pea cultivars could be exploited further by increasing the number of random primers and by validating it with other available DNA markers. AP-21

DIVERSITY IN AGRO-MORPHOLOGICAL TRAITS OF AMARANTH IN THE NORTH - WESTERN HIMALAYA 1

Anju Pathania 1*, S.K.Sharma 1, J.C.Rana 2 and Suman Kumar 1# Mountain Agriculture Research and Extension Centre Sangla, 2 NBPGR Regional Station, Phagli, Shimla, # Senior Research Fellow, * Corresponding author, email: [email protected]

Abstract

Assessment of genetic diversity helps in identification of diverse parental combinations to create segregating progenies with maximum genetic variability and facilitates introgression of desirable genes from diverse germplasm in to the available genetic base. In the present study, fifty three accessions of amaranth from different parts of India were evaluated consecutively two years at Mountain Agriculture Research and Extension Centre, Sangla, Kinnaur (2590m amsl) to study the genetic divergence among the strains. Morphological characterization revealed differences among accessions for various qualitative traits viz., growth habit, leaf color, inflorescence color, different types of inflorescences, inflorescence

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” compactness, stem color and seed color. Correlation studies indicated that leaf length was positively correlated with leaf width and petiole length. Days to flowering and maturity were negatively correlated with seed yield per plant. Multivariate analysis performed to assess the patterns of agro-morphological variation showed that the first five principal components accounted for ~80% of the total variability. Accessions collected from Akola, Maharashtra (280m amsl) have positive values for PC1, were suitable as leafy vegetable, whereas accessions collected from Pauri, Uttrakhand (1650m amsl) have high positive values for PC2 were suitable for seed purpose. The cluster analysis grouped the fifty three accessions of amaranth into five clusters. Diverse strains falling in different clusters were identified which can be utilized in different hybridization programme to develop high yielding varieties. Accessions IC042279-5, IC042282-1, IC042290-20, IC042290-21, IC042310-1, IC042311-6 and IC042312-4 have high seed yield/plant and early maturity and can be exploited in future amaranths breeding programme for north western Himalayan region. AP-22

PER SE PERFORMANCE OF GARLIC (ALLIUM SATIVUM) GENOTYPES FOR YIELD ATTRIBUTING TRAITS R.K. DHALL and P.S. BRAR Department of Vegetable Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004, Punjab Email: *[email protected]

Abstract

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a commercially important spice vegetable crop grown in India. Garlic has been recognized for all over the world as a valuable spice for food as well as for its medicinal value. In order to identify large size bulbs having large clove diameter, available genotypes were tested during 2011 to find the suitable genotype for the Punjab state. The present study was conducted to investigate performance on the basis of nine morphological characteristics of 24 diverse genotypes collected from different sources. Key words: Clove, Diameter, Garlic, Genotypes AP-23

SIMULTANEOUS IMPROVEMENT OF GRAIN YIELD AND GRAIN PROTEIN CONCENTRATION IN WHEAT (TRITICUM AESTIVUM L.) 1

Dinisha Abhishek1, Silke Ruppel2, S.K.Sethi1, Chetan Choudhary1 and R.K.Behl1 CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125004 2 Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ), Theodor-Echtermeyer-weg 1, 14979 Grossbeeren, Germany

Abstract

Grain yield and grain protein concentration (GPC) are important traits in global wheat breeding programmes. Improving these two traits simultaneously is difficult due to the negative association between grain yield and GPC. We investigated the relationship between grain yield and GPC in 107 F2 plants obtained from a cross between PBW 343 × KRL 19. The data in F2 population were continuous in distribution but deviated from normal distribution. Correlation coefficients revealed no clear association of grain protein concentration (GPC) with grain yield indicating that variation in grain protein is independent of yield and that simultaneous breeding advances in yield and protein are possible. Key words: Wheat, F2 population, grain yield, grain protein

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ESTABLISHMENT OF GENETIC PURITY THROUGH BIOCHEMICAL TESTS IN BARLEY 1

D.P.Deswal1* ; V.S.Mor1; Vikram Singh2 & Axay Kumar1 Dept. of Seed Science and Technology 2Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding CCS Haryana Agricultural university, Hisar-125004 Email:[email protected]

Abstract

Establishment of identity and genetic purity are crucial to varietal improvement, protection of plant varieties and maintenance of seed quality in seed production programmes. Therefore, besides the plant morphological characters, the quick reliable and reproducible biochemical identification tests are also important especially of seed testing in laboratory and seed law enforcements regulations. In barley, six biochemical tests were conducted upon 27 varieties to establish the genetic identity. It was observed that the peroxidase enzyme test reaction was present only in BH 885 while in all others, there was no reaction i.e. absent. In Phenol test, brown colour was observed in BH 885, BG-25, BH 935, BH 855, BH 935, DWR 28, RD2668, K-551, BH902, BH 938, BH 933, BH 936, BH 939, and RD 2035. Only one variety BH294 gave dark brown colour.In case of Ferrous sulphate test, dark brown was observed in BH05-9, BH-941, BH 935, DWR 28 and RD 2668 while rest of the varieties (Second group) depicted light brown colour. Thus, biochemical tests would be helpful in genetic purity establishment in addition to morphological characters especially the key characters. AP-25

EVALUATION OF LENTIL GENOTYPES FOR SEED VIGOUR AND PREDICTION OF FIELD EMERGENCE AND STORABILITY THROUGH DIFFERENT VIGOUR TESTS D.P.Deswal*1 ; V.S.Mor1; Rajesh Yadav 2 & Axay Kumar1 Dept. of Seed Science and Technology 2Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding CCS Haryana Agricultural university, Hisar-125004 Email:[email protected]

1

Abstract

Twenty-four genotypes of lentil were subjected to various viability and vigour tests to find out the reliable vigour test/s for the prediction of field emergence and also to evaluate the relative storability through accelerated ageing (AA) and electrical conductivity (EC) tests and simultaneously evaluate the seed vigour of the genotypes. Significant variability was observed among the genotypes for different seed vigour parameters. It was observed that field emergence (FE) had the significant positive correlation with standard germination (0.965**), AAT-48 (0.951**), seed vigour index I & II (0.898**) and (0.797**) and seedling length (0.412*) while highly negative significant correlation with E.C. (-0.927**). Standard germination (SG) was found highly significantly associated with seed vigour index I & II (VI-I & II), AAT-48h (0.982**), shoot length (Sh.L) and highly significant with E.C.(-0.930**). It is evident from the data that field emergence may be predicted by either of the single test such as SG, AAT, EC, VI-I & II and more precisely by combination of above tests. To assess the relative storability which may be judged by AAT and EC tests, it was observed that EC had the highly significant negative correlation with SG(-0.930**), AAT(-0.911**), VI-I(0.857**), VI-II (-0.710**)etc while the AAT was found highly significantly positive correlation with SG (0.987**), VI-I(0.932**), VI-II (0.810**), S.L(0.472*) and shoot length (0.441*). Thus, AAT and EC are found to be relative predicator of relative storability/longitivity. The genotypes LH09-27, LH09-3, LH09-1, LH09-13 and LH09-4 were observed as vigourous among the 24 tested genotypes

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STORABILITY BEHAVIOUR OF SELFED AND OPEN POLLINATED INBRED LINES OF PEARL MILLET IN DIFFERENT STORAGE CONDITIONS *

1

V.S. Mor1; Ramesh Kumar2; R.C. Punia 1& O.S.Dahiya1 Dept. of Seed Science and Technology 2Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding CCS Haryana Agricultural university, Hisar-125004 *Email:[email protected]

Abstract

The seed of two bajra inbred lines (HBL-11 and H-77/833-2-202) was produced by open pollination and selfing under isolation. The freshly harvested seed was air-dried in January, 2012 and kept at three different storage conditions in different packaging material. There was a significant difference in the initial germination and vigour potential of open pollinated seed (90.30% and 1948.8) and selfed seed (80.50% and 1577.2). The open pollinated seed of both bajra inbreds was found superior in viability and vigour status as compared to selfed seed. To assess the suitability of packaging material with respect to storage conditions, the observations were recorded quarterly. The means across the packaging material revealed that the germination of open pollinated inbred lines was maintained above the IMSCS (75%) upto 12 months (77.83%) of storage in ambient condition. Whereas, the germination of selfed seed was maintained above the IMSCS upto 9 months (77.03%) of storage in the same condition. However, the germination potential of open pollinated inbred line was maintained upto 15 months in refrigerator (79.13%) and in incubator 20oC (77.77%). Whereas, the germination of selfed seed was maintained above the IMSCS upto 12 months (76.34%) in refrigerator and upto 9 months (78.33%) in incubator 20oC. Similar trend was also observed for vigour among all the three storage conditions in the seed of both open pollinated and selfed pollinated inbred lines . The means across the storage condition revealed that the germination of open pollinated inbred lines was maintained above the IMSCS (75%) upto 9 months (81.83%) in the cloth bags, whereas the germination of selfed seed was maintained above the IMSCS upto 6 months (76.61%) of storage. However, the germination potential of open pollinated inbred line was maintained upto 15 months in polybin (75.33%), aluminum foil (75.50%), poly bag (77.72%) and super bag (80.33%). The highest germination potential was maintained in super bag (80.33%), upto 15 months. Whereas, the germination of selfed seed was maintained above the IMSCS upto 9 months in polybin (77.28%), aluminum foil (77.89%), poly bag (78.50%), super bag (78.50%). The selfed seed was maintained upto 15 months in super bag (75.72%). Similar trend was also observed for vigour among all the packaging material in the seed of both open pollinated and selfed pollinated inbred line. Overall, it was concluded that to maintain the longevity of both types of seed, refrigerator storage in super bag was the best.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” BP-1

INTEGRATED DISEASE MANAGEMENT (IDM) Dushyant, Dr. N.K.khatri and Jagdish Prasad Department of Plant pathology, SK Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner- 334006 Email: *[email protected]

Abstract

Integrated disease management (IDM) is a disease control approach that uses all available management strategies to maintain disease pressures below an economic injury threshold. It does not advocate a routine chemical application program to prevent disease, but promotes the integration of cultural, physical, biological and chemical control strategies. The routine application of fungicides for insurance purposes is not appropriate, as it does not focus the proper attention on the real problem and can lead to resistance and potential environmental issues. The basic objectives of any IDM program should be to achieve at least the following:reducing the possibility of introducing diseases into the crop, avoid creating conditions suitable for disease establishment and spread. Five disease management tactics: Biological - the conservation or release of bio-control agents that attack on pathogens e.g. - Trichoderma, Bacillus, Pseudomonas etc. Cultural - such as crop rotation, deep summer ploughing, change the date of sowing, depth of sowing, trap cropping, removal or destruction of diseased plants. Chemical - use of pesticides as a last resort only and favoring those products that conserve natural enemies. Physical or mechanical - barriers such as covers and screens plus vacuums. Resistance- utilize resistant / tolerant cultivars. Advantages of IDM are: Improve profitability, a reduced amount of broad-spectrum pesticide use in the environment, a reduced chance of peathogen developing resistance towards a specific pesticide, a reduced health risk to humans, a reduced health risk to pets and organisms that aren’t being targeted, less harm for the environment. BP-2

INTEGRATED DISEASE MANAGEMENT IN BROCCOLI (BRASSICA OLERACEA ITALICA): A BETTER APPROACH FOR RESIDUE FREE DIET Prashant Chauhan, Ravika1 and SK Dhankhar2 Department of Plant Pathology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (India)-125004 1 Department of Genetics & Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (India)-125004 2 Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (India)-125004 Email: *[email protected]

Abstract

India has a wide range of climates ranging from temperate to tropical, where different bracicacae crops are grown all over the country. Among them, broccoli is being a temperate crop grown mainly in hilly area for table purposes and fresh vegetable consumption. The crop suffers from a number of diseases including, damping off (Pythium spp.), downy mildew, leaf spot (Alternaria spp.), black rot (Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris), black leg (Phoma lingam), wire stem (Rhizoctonia solani), white blister (Albugo candida) and Fusarium yellows (F. oxysporum f.sp. conglutinans) and some other viral diseases are very common. Losses due to diseases have been substantial and can cause crop failure under favorable environmental conditions. With the time and changes in dietary habits, broccoli is occupying its place in our daily diets. The use of chemical pesticides to control the diseases of broccoli can put a threat of chemical residues to the consumers. Therefore, an integrated approach for the control of the diseases has been of utmost importance in case of broccoli to minimize the residual effects on human being. By following clean cultivation, improved cultural practices, better management of water for irrigation, use of biocontrol agents and by using resistant varieties a better disease control could be achieved and disease incidence can be minimized in broccoli as compared to the use of chemicals. So, following IDM in broccoli cultivation can be useful approach for healthy environment and healthy diet.

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Pathogenic variability among isolates of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum infecting Indian mustard Pawan Kumar, A.S. Rathi and Anil Kumar Department of Plant Pathology CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125 004 E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Study was conducted to evaluate the pathogenic variability among fourteen isolates of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum obtained from infected plant of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) from different mustard growing regions of India. The significant differences were observed between the genotypes in relation to the per cent disease intensity across the isolates and all the isolates had shown varying degree of per cent disease intensity depending on genotype tested. However, non-significant variation was observed among the isolates in relation to initial appearance of disease symptoms in days after inoculation. The average disease intensity of different isolates varied between 28.7 to 53.1 per cent on all the genotypes under field condition. Note worthy, HSR and FTH were the most pathogenic isolates with mean disease intensity of more than 50 %, while ALW was least pathogenic isolate with disease intensity of less than 30% under field conditions. Variation for days to stem breaking was also observed among some of the isolates inoculated on different genotypes. However, some of the isolates caused stem breaking on some genotypes while, other isolates could not cause stem breaking on some genotypes. Isolates produced varying number of sclerotia on different genotypes. However, all the isolates resulted in formation of less than 7 sclerotia in one genotype Varuna albino, indicating its tolerance to all the available isolates. There were also some genotype-isolate interactions, where less sclerotia were obtained from some genotypes due to one isolate. BP-4

RESIDUE DYNAMICS OF ACEPHATE, PROFENOPHOS AND TRIAZOPHOS IN BRINJAL (SOLANUM MELONGENA L.) Gaganpreet Singh Brar and SK Patyal Department of Entomology Dr.Y.S.Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry Nauni (Solan)-173 230 (HP) E mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) is a popular solanaceous and economically important vegetable crop. It is attacked by a number of insect pests affecting its growth and productivity. Different insecticides are used to control insect pests. In the present investigation persistence of acephate, profenophos and triazophos on brinjal was studied. Treated fruits were also subjected to common household decontamination processes. The brinjal crop was sprayed with each insecticide twice at 10 days interval. Each insecticide was applied at two concentrations i.e. single and double doses, acephate applied @ 560 and 1120 g a.i. ha-1, profenophos and triazophos applied @ 500 and 1000 g a.i. ha-1. Brinjal fruit samples were analysed by QuEChERS method and residues were estimated on SHIMADZU-2010 GC equipped with FPD and Rxi-5 capillary column. The initial deposits due to single dose each of acephate, profenophos and triazophos on brinjal fruits were 0.683, 1.966 and 1.100 mg kg-1, respectively. However, at double dose the initial deposits of acephate, profenophos and triazophos were 1.080, 2.460 and 2.233 mg kg-1 on brinjal fruits. Acephate, profenophos and triazophos residues persisted in brinjal fruits upto 7 and 10 days at single and double dose, respectively. The residues of acephate, profenophos and triazophos in fruits reduced to half in less than 2 days. The waiting periods for the respective insecticides were worked out at their limit of determination (0.05 mgkg-1) due to lack of MRL value in India. The safe waiting periods on brinjal were suggested as 7.9, 6.3 and 7.1 days for acephate, profenophos and triazophos, respectively. The tap water washing, saline water washing and lukewarm water washing of brinjal fruits were found effective in removing residues 20.00 to 43.83, 28.65 to 54.54 and 35.31 to 61.81 per cent, respectively. Open pan and microwave cooking provided 50.21 to 68.42 and 58.53 to 73.68 per cent relief, respectively from insecticide residues. Cooking (open pan and microwave) was found as the most effective decontamination process.

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BIO-EFFICACY OF INSECTICIDES AGAINST CORIANDER APHID Chhiter Mal Ola and H.L. Deshwal College of Agriculture, SK Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner, Rajasthan

Abstract

Insect pest are one of the limiting factors for higher production of good quality coriander leaves as well as seeds. Among the insect pests of this crop, coriander aphid, Hyadaphis coriandari (Das) has been reported to be of regular nature and major insect pest in Rajasthan and other parts of country to study the efficacy of seven safe insecticide along with two pant prodeucts (viz., neem and neem based insecticides) for evolving an effective management schedule. Keeping these view an investigation was conducted in the Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Bikaner during rabi seasion the experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with treatments viz. Malathion 50 EC, Thiamethoxam 25 WG, Acetamiprid 20 SP, Imidacioprid 17.8 SL, Carbosulfan 25 EC, Diclorvos 76 EC, Dimethoat 30 EC, N.S.K.E, Azadirachtin 0.03 EC and control with nphicated thrice. The coriander variety, RCR-684 was sown on November, 2009 in a plot size of 3x2m2 keeping row to row and plant to plant distance of 30 and 15 cm, respectively. Two spray of imidacloprid (0.005%), thiamethoxam (0.0005%) and acetamiprid (0.004%) were found highly effective in crop protection, whereas dimethoate (0.03%), dichlorvos (0.05%), carbosulfan (0.05%) and malathion (0.05% were found moderately effective the treatments of NSKE (5.0%) and azadirachtin (0.5%) were found less effective in reducing the aphid population. BP-6

EFFECT OF VARIETAL SCREENING, AND DATE OF SOWING OF HELICOVERPA ARMIGERA (HUB.) ON CHICKPEA [CICER ARIETIINUM (L.)] O.M.Choudhary1, M.M. Sharma2, R.Anwala3 and V.Bhunwal4 Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner-334006

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted on screening of chickpea varieties/genotypes, dates of sowing of H. armigera (Hub.) on chickpea were conducted at Experimental Farm, College of Agriculture. Ten varieties/genotypes of chickpea were tested for relative incidence of the pest. Among these varieties RSG-44 and RSG-945 were found to be highly susceptible followed by CSJ-104, RSG-959, RSG-895, RSG-888, RSG-897 and RSG-973 as moderately susceptible while, CSJD-884 and RSG-931 as least susceptible. The maximum yield was obtained in CSJD-884 (14.54 q ha-1) at par with RSG-931 (14.36 q ha-1), while lowest yield was from RSG-44 (11.13 q ha-1).The experiment on dates of sowing revealed that early sown crop (5th October) had the lowest larval population (2.50 larvae/five plants) of gram pod borer, minimum pod damage (14.50%) with relatively better yield (13.04 q ha-1) as compared to late sown (20th November) crop with higher larval population (6.13 larvae/five plants), higher pod damage (28.96%) and lower yield (9.77 q ha-1)

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BIOLOGY OF LEAF EATING CATERPILLAR, SPODOPTERA LITURA (FABRICIUS) ON DIFFERENT BIDI TOBACCO VARIETIES 1

R. A. PATIL1, D. M. MEHTA2 AND B. L. JAT* Department of Entomology, AAU, Anand 2Bidi Tobacco Research Station, AAU, Anand – 388 110 (Gujarat) *CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004 (Haryana)

Abstract

Tobacco leaf eating caterpillar, Spodoptera litura (Fab.) is one of the most important insect pests of tobacco in nursery as well as in field. The biology of S.litura on different tobacco varieties, Anand-119, GT-5, GT-9, MRGTH-1, ABT-10 and ABD-101, was studied at 26 ± 1°C and 75 ± 1% relative humidity. All of the biological parameters included in the study were affected by the host varieties. The larval period ranged from 22 to 31 days on MRGTH-1 was longer than other tobacco varieties. Fecundity of females was more on GT-9, least on ABD-101, and intermediate on Anand-119, ABT-10, GT-5 and MRGTH-1, respectively. Pupal period, adult period and growth index were significantly higher on GT-5 than on others and larval mortality per cent was also significantly lower on GT-5 than other varieties. Pupal mortality per cent was lower on ABD-101 than on other varieties. BP-8

EFFICACY OF VARIOUS INSECTICIDES FOR THE CONTROL OF SPODOPTERA LITURA (FABRICIUS) ON KHARIF MUNGBEAN Harpreet K. Cheema, Ravinder Singh and G.K. Taggar Deptt. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Tobacco caterpillar, Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) is a serious insect pest of mungbean, soybean, urdbean and cotton during kharif (rainy) season in India. The pest usually appears during August-September and continues till maturity. The young larvae are gregarious in nature and nibble the leaf from the lower surface, leaving the upper surface intact. The later instars become widely distributed in the field and cause widespread defoliation of the crop. Under favourable conditions, its populations increase to cause total defoliation of the crop. Keeping in view its damage potential, trials were conducted during kharif 2011-2013 to test the efficacy of various insecticides viz., emamectin benzoate 5SG @ 8 and 10g, flubendiamide 480SG @10 and 30g, novaluron 10 EC @ 30 and 37.5g and profenophos 50EC @ 500 and 625g a.i./ha against S. litura on kharif mungbean variety PAU 911. Treatment novaluron 10 EC @ 37.5g, emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 10g and emamectin benzoate 8g a.i./ha significantly reduced pest population, three and seven days after spray. Highest grain yield was obtained in treatment emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 10 g a.i./ha and it was on par with novaluron 10 EC @ 37.5 g a.i./ha. Maximun net returns and benefit:cost were obtained from the treatment novaluron 10 EC @ 37.5 g a.i./ha. Earlier studies have shown that one to two sprays of insecticide novaluron 10 EC at 37.5 g, acephate 75 SP at 1500 g, chlorpyriphos 20 EC at 1000 g and indoxacarb 14.5 SC at 73 g a.i./ha proved to be quite effective in controlling this pest. Hand picking and mechanical destruction of the young instar gregarious larvae can greatly help in reducing infestation during early stage of attack followed by timely spray of insecticides identified effective against this insect pest.

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EVALUATION OF LOCALLY AVAILABLE RAW MATERIAL FOR DEVELOPMENT OF BAIT APPLICATION TECHNIQUE (BAT) AGAINST FRUIT FLY SPECIES Yendrembam K. Devi*, P. K. Mehta and C. S. Prabhakar Department of Entomology, CSK HPKV, Palampur-176062, Himachal Pradesh E-mail : [email protected] and [email protected]

Abstract

Cucumber is an important vegetable crops cultivated extensively in India. Fruit flies have been identified as one of the ten most serious problems of cucurbits. Evaluation of locally available raw material for development of bait application technique (BAT) against Bactrocera tau (Walker) has been conducted under laboratory condition. 25 males and 25 females of this species were released together with different concentrations of each baits solution and flies visiting each concentration were recorded for 15 minutes. Laboratory evaluation of attractancy of different baits to B. tau under no choice and multiple choice test revealed maximum attractancy in hydrolysed protein (46.00 and 46.50%), followed by molasses (41.11 and 36.50%), respectively. Exposure of B. tau to different bait-insecticide combinations under laboratory conditions indicated highest mortality (97.50%) in molasses + dichlorvos followed by banana pulp + dichlorvos (96.50%) and hydrolysed protein + dichlorvos (96.00%). Key Words: Bactrocera tau, cucumber, bait, insecticide BP-10

INDUCTION OF OXIDATIVE COMPONENTS FOLLOWING HELICOVERPA ARMIGERA (HUBNER) INFESTATION IN PIGEONPEA (CAJANUS CAJAN L.) Rimaljeet Kaur1, Anil Kumar Gupta1, Gaurav Kumar Taggar2 Department of Biochemistry, 2Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004, India. email ID: [email protected]

1

Abstract

Helicoverpa armigera is a polyphagous pest that attacks more than 200 plant species, including cotton, pigeonpea, maize etc. Investigating the inherent host plant resistance mechanisms might be helpful in reducing the losses due to herbivores. Therefore, the study was conducted to evaluate the potential of oxidative enzymes in deterring Helicoverpa armigera infestation. Nine pigeonpea genotypes, four moderately resistant (AL 1495, AL 1735, AL 1747 and AL 1770), three intermediate (AL 1753, AL 1755 and AL 201) and two moderately susceptible (AL 1677 and AL 15) were exposed to fourth instar larvae of H. armigera. Leaves, pod wall and developing seeds were collected from uninfested and infested plants for biochemical assays. Pod borer infestation resulted in increase in polyphenol oxidase (PPO), diamine oxidase (DAO), polyamine oxidase (PAO) activities and decrease in ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activity. The increase in PPO, DAO and PAO activity was more in moderately resistant genotypes than in moderately susceptible genotypes in infested leaves. The decline in APX activity was less in moderately resistant genotypes than moderately susceptible genotypes. The greater increase in activities of PPO, DAO and PAO after H. armigera feeding and lower decline in APX activity in moderately resistant genotypes indicates their contribution in providing induced resistance in pigeonpea. Keywords: Pigeonpea, Helicoverpa armigera, Oxidative enzymes.

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ROLE OF MICRONUTRIENTS IN CONTROLLING PLANT DISEASES IN SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE 1

Bikesh Yadav1*, Ramji Singh2, Wineet Chawla1 and G.S. Gatoria1 Department of Agriculture, Baba Farid College, Deon, Bathinda, Punjab-151001 India. 2 Department of Plant Pathology, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel crop season i.e. (SVP) University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut-250110 (U.P.), India.

Abstract

Experiments were conducted at S.V.P. University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut , during 2008-09 & 2009-10 crop season, to know the effect of deficient and recommended doses of micronutrients (Zinc, Iron, Manganese, Boron, olybdenum and Sulpher). The control of plant diseases using classical pesticides raises serious concerns about food safety, environmental quality and pesticide resistance, which have dicteatd the need for alternative pest management techniques. The effect of micronutrients on reducing the severity of diseases can be attributed to the involvement in physiology and biochemistry of the plant, as many of the essential micronutrients are involved in many processes that can affect the response of plants to pathogens (Marschner 1995).Micronutrients can affect resistance indirectly, as in deficient plants they become more suitable feeding substrate. In most of the studies reported here the addition of micronutrients decreased the incidence of the diseases in crop plants. It seems that due to iron application to the wheat plant, the quantity of phenols in wheat plant might increase as reported by Singh et al. (2009). Micronutrient application had a much greater effect on reducing diseases when the plants were at deficiency levels. In cases where the addition of a micronutrient has exacerbated the diseases it is possibly because of toxicity rather than deficiency; or in other cases, the addition of a nutrient can aggravate the primary deficiency. Also, in sustainable agriculture balanced nutrition is an essential component of any integrative crop protection program because in most cases it is more cost-effective and also environmentally friendly to control plant diseases with the adequate amount of micronutrients and with no pesticides. Among micronutrients, application of molybdenum, boron and manganese resulted in minimum disease incidence when applied at tillering and boot leaf stages on wheat. Micronutrients can reduce disease to an acceptable level, or at least to a level at which further control by other cultural practices or conventional organic biocides are more successful and less expensive. BP-12

DIFFERENT HONEYBEE SPECIES AS POLLINATORS ON PARENTAL LINES OF BRASSICA NAPUS L. Dr Jasvir Singh Dalio* Street No. 12 Yog Nagar Budhlada – 151502 E-Mail: *[email protected]

Abstract Hybrid seed production is feasible, only when pollen is transferred from flowers of male line to those of female line. Success of hybrid seed production programme depends upon maximizing the seed set on female line rows. Hybrid seed production essentially require the pollinators to move between male and female lines during a single visit. Every insect can not be an efficient pollinator. Honeybees are the most efficient and abundant amongst insect pollinators . Main aim of the study was to compare pollinating abilities of different Apis species on parental lines of Brassica napus . Study revealed that as far as parameters like abundance, foraging behaviour , number of seed set with one visit, number of loose pollen grains adhering to the body surface, intersexual flower visits etc. were concerned, different species had different abilities but on the whole Apis mellifera was the best pollinator as compared to other three bee species (A. dorsaa, A.florea and A.cerana). so A. mellifera colonies should be kept in hybrid seed production plots of B.napus. Major problem noted during study was that intersexual flower visits of bees were very less because flowers of cytoplasmically male sterile ( CMS) line were very less attractive to all kinds of honeybees as compared to those of restorer (R) line. Research work is urgently required to make the CMS line equally attractive so that intersexual flower visits may be increased, which will increase yield of hybrid seeds. Beekeeping should be made an integral part of agricultural management technology.

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Cheyletid Mites (Acari: Trombidiformes) In Stored Grains In PUNJAB Parminder Singh Dehar Dept. of Zoology and Environment Science Punjabi University, Patiala – 147002 – Punjab, India E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

Cheyletid mites in stored cereal were second dominated after astigmatic mites. Some of these species of this family are predators of acarid mites and they were collected from soils, flour-mills, barn and rice-mill in 11 Provinces located in Sangrur and Patiala districts of Punjab and then identified. In this study, nine genera and 11 species are identified as follows: Acaropsellina sollers (Kuzin, 1940), Cheletomorpha lepidopterorum (Show, 1794), Cheyletus bidentatus Fain & Nadchatrum, 1980 Cheyletus carnifex Zachvatkin, 1935, Cheyletus eruditus (Schrank, 1781), Cheyletus malaccensis Oudemans, 1903, Cheyletus trouessarti Oudemans, 1903, Culifella variegate (Barilo, 1985), Eucheyletia sp., Lepidocheyla sp., Nodele calamondin Muma, 1964, Neocheyla iranica Fain & Ardeshir, 2000, Zachvatkiniola reticulate (Cunliffe, 1962). The most distributed mites were Cheyletus malaccensis and Acaropsellina sollers. The most common species on wheat and rice was Cheyletus malaccensis BP-14

LIFE FECUNDITY TABLES OF SPODOPTERA LITURA (FABRICIUS) ON BIDI TOBACCO, NICOTIANA TABACUM 1

R. A. Patil1, D. M. Mehta2 and B. L. Jat* Department of Entomology, AAU, Anand 2Bidi Tobacco Research Station, AAU, Anand – 388 110 (Gujarat) *Department of Entomology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004 (Haryana) *E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

Studies on life fecundity tables of Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) were carried out on bidi tobacco cv. GTH-1 under laboratory condition at 26 ± 1 °C temperature. The net reproductive potential (Ro) obtained was 353.85 females with the mean length of generation period (T) 50.29 days. The innate capacity for increase (rm) and finite rate of increase (l) were found to be 0.1172 and 1.1243 females/female/day, respectively with a weekly multiplication rate (λ)7 of 2.27 times. The hypothetical F2 females were found to be 125209.75. The % contribution of eggs, larvae, pupae and adults were 48.49, 50.39, 1.01 and 0.09, respectively at stable age distribution of S. litura on bidi tobacco cv. GTH-1. BP-15

EFFECT OF TRIPTOLIDE ON REPRODUCTION OF MALE LESSER BANDICOOT RAT, BANDICOTA BENGALENSIS Parul Dhar and Neena Singla Department of Zoology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004, India. E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

Present study was aimed to evaluate the effect of triptolide on reproduction of wild male rodent pest species, Bandicota bengalensis for its further use under field conditions in integration with chemical control. Methodology: Mature and healthy male lesser bandicoot rat, B. bengalensis, were live-trapped from crop fields in and around Ludhiana. Four different groups of rats (n = 15 each) were fed on bait containing different concentrations (0, 0.15, 0.2 and 0.25%) of triptolide for

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” a period of 15 days in bi-choice. Bait acceptance and effect on reproductive output, reproductive organs, body weight, testosterone and sperm parameters were recorded. Results: Acceptance of bait containing triptolide in choice with plain bait was found to vary from 20.69 to 25.91%. The consumptions of treatment bait by rats during treatment period were found to be significantly less than the consumptions of plain bait. No effect of treatment was observed on body weight and plasma levels of testosterone. Triptolide affected the breeding output of male rats as indicated by inhibition of pregnancy in female rats paired with male rats treated with 0.25% triptolide immediately and after 30 days of treatment withdrawal. Significant effect of treatment was observed on weights of reproductive organs, sperm motility, viability, density and sperm morphology immediately and after 30 and 60 days of treatment withdrawal. Conclusion: The present study suggests triptolide to be a strong candidate for reducing reproductive output of male B. bengalensis via significantly affecting reproductive organs, cauda epididymal sperm motility, viability, density and morphology. Keywords: Triptolide, Reproduction, Bandicota bengalensis BP-16

mite associated with stored GRAIN AND HEALTH ISSUES Parminder Singh Dehar Zoology Department, Punjabi University, Patiala - 147 002 (Pb.) Email- [email protected]

Abstract

Stored grain and stored products mites are found different products stores and sometimes, in high concentration. Mites that occur these commodities belong to many different families and genera. Mites cause significant grain Weight losses and decrease of germinability. Their activities cause heating of grain mass and moisture translocation which permits the development of molds and germination of the grain, contamination by alive and dead mites different stages as well as exuviae and feaces resulting in being harmful for human consumption. Mites are vectors of toxicogenic fungi, which contribute to contamination of food and feed with mycotoxins it is possible for the workers and even the customers to be exposed to mites and their allergen. Either by handling inhaling or ingestion of mites contaminated food. BP-17

GUJHIA WEEVIL- A NEW INSECT PEST OF CHICKPEA IN PUNJAB Ravinder Singh, G. K. Taggar and P.C. Pathania* Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics *Department of Entomology PAU, Ludhiana

Abstract

Chickpea, Cicer arietinum (L) is the third most important grain legume in the world, after dry beans and peas. In India, chickpea is grown on 9.21 million ha producing 8.88 million tons of grain with productivity of 995 kg per ha (DAC Statistics, 2013), which is far lower than its potential (up to 4 t/ ha) yield. There has been no significant increase in chickpea yield as compared to the cereal crops because of several biotic and abiotic constraints. Among the biotic factors, damage due to insect pests mainly pod borer is the major limiting factor for its low yield (Sharma, 2005). Besides pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera the crop is also attacked by several other insect pests like sucking insect pests and defoliators . During Rabi 2012-13 & 2013-14 severe incidence of a new insect pest, Gujhia weevil, Tanymecus indicus Faust (Curculionidae: Coleoptera) was noticed on the chickpea crop sown at research farms of KVK Faridkot. The new insect pest nibbles the tender shoots of chickpea seedlings just above the ground level. The pest scratches the green portion of the shoot, girdles the stem region making a constriction in the shoot, which further weakens the plant. As a result of the attack, the plant withers, wilts, turns yellow, brown and ultimately dies. The attack of the pest was observed in patches in the field. The damage due to this pest ranged from 12 to 15% and as a result, the plant stand remained thin in the field.

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SOIL SOLARIZATION:AN ECO FRIENDLY CROP PROTECTION MEASURE FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF FUSARIUM WILT OF CHILLI Anand Kumar Meena1 , K.D. Thakur2 and Paritosh Kumar3 Plant Pathology Section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola 440 010 ,Maharastra,INDIA E-mail: *[email protected] 1Ph.D.Scholar ,3 M.Sc. Scholar, SKRAU Bikaner. 2 Professor Plant Pathology,Dr.PDKV,Akola.

Abstract

An experiment was conducted to study the effect of soil solarization on chilli wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp capsici. Transparent polythene sheets covered plots with different combination of Irrigation and ploughing treatment for up to 4 weeks maintaining appropriate controls. It was observed that soil temperature at different soil depth i.e 5 to 15 cm varied widely among different treatment and especially in the Irrigated ploughed combination it had a maximum average of 51.0 0C compared to 39.8 0C in control. Soil population of Foc in Irrigated ploughed treatment was reduced to non detectable levels. Key words : Soil solarization, chilli wilt, Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. capsici BP-19

Bees as a natural input resource for increasing crop productivity and agricultural sustainability G.S.Gatoria1, Reet Verma2 and Rakesh Kumar1 1

Deptt of Agriculture, BFC, BFGI, Deon : Bathinda-151 001; 2 K.V.K. , Fatehgarh Sahib-140 006 Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Angiosperms and insect pollinators have been co-evolved for mutual benefit and insects play over 85 per cent role in the cross pollination of crops. About 33 percent of the human diet is, directly or indirectly, derived from insect pollinated plants. To feed the ever increasing mouths on the globe, we need to increase food production by increasing crop productivity. But despite all the best material inputs, crop yields are low because of inadequate population of pollinators & pollination service. Several breeding barrios necessitate the cross pollination among angiosperms. Except bees, pollination by other insects is an incidental event. Unlike insecticides, crop yield enhancement through bee pollination also does not degrade the environment, rather helps in the continuation and increasing natural biodiversity. Moreover, because of their several traits, although bees are considered as the best agents of cross pollination but bees are not given due importance as an input for crop production in agriculture . Various bee spp. can even play a significant role in the pollination of high value crops grown under poly / green-house conditions too. Estimation of huge monetary benefits of bee pollination across the globe supports the role of bees in agricultural sustainability. However, the ever declining density and diversity of natural / wild bees, is the matter of concern and necessitates the efficient management of this natural resource for increasing crop productivity and agricultural sustainability.

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HONEY BEES AS POLLINATORS AND CAUSES OF THEIR DECLINE Anita Devi* and Neelima R Kumar Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh *E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Honey bees are perceived beneficial primarily owing to the various rewards they offer in shape of different hive products like honey, pollen, propolis, bee venom, royal jelly, etc. However, their importance as pollinators is usually poorly understood. Among the various insects honey bees assume the status of major pollinator of wide variety of agricultural, horticultural and vegetable crops. The economic benefits of honey bees as pollinators far more exceeds the monetary benefits from production of honey and other hive products. Pollination services to flowering plants represent a key ecosystem service by honey bees. The close synergistic relationship between plants and pollinators suggests that bee biodiversity and by extension, plant and ecosystem biodiversity is central to food security and to the health of the biosphere as a whole. Increasing the efficiency of pollination represents a way of increasing crop yield without any increase in agricultural intensity or area. However, the decline in honeybees’populations, especially of feral colonies is a serious concern and need immediate attention. Among the potential cause of this decline injudicious use of pesticides, prevalence of various insect pestsincluding mites, disease pathogens, viruses, intensive agriculture and global warming are some important ones. Organized research based steps must be initiated for the conservation of these pollinators. Key Words:Conservation,decline,honey bees, pollination BP-21

Host Range and Pathogenic Variation in Isolates of Rhizoctonia solani Incitant of Wet Root Rot in Chickpea Pawan Kumar Panwar*, VK Gaur, Jagdish Prasad and Lekhraj Katariya Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Swami Kehshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner-334001, India. *E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Studies were conducted to find out the extent of host range and pathogenic variation among seven isolates of Rhizoctonia solani collected from Rajasthan, Haryana and New Delhi. All seven isolates tested for their pathogenicity using susceptible varieties viz. C-235 of chickpea, RC-101 of cowpea, RMO-225 of mothbean and RMG-344 of mungbean, had varying disease incidence levels in pot culture experiment using sterilized and unsterilized soil. The isolate Hisar-2775 on chickpea, Delhi-4097 on cowpea and Hisar- 2775 on mothbean were highly virulent in both types of soil, while Delhi-4097 was highly virulent on mungbean in sterilized soil but not in unsterilized soil. Contrary to this the isolate Hisar-2775 was highly virulent in unsterilized soil. The incidence of disease appeared first on mungbean followed by chickpea, mothbean and cowpea in both soil types. This may be due to genetic variations in host crops or variation in degree of aggressiveness of isolates of Rhizoctonia solani. Key words: chickpea, pathogenic variations, Rhizoctonia solani

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IN VIVO TESTING OF EFFICACY OF VARIOUS CHEMICALS AGAINST PURPLE BLOTCH OF ONION CAUSED BY ALTERNARIA PORRI BS Dudi, Prashant Chauhan*, MS Bochalya, Dinisha Abhishek and Sachin Kumari Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (India)-125004 *Department of Plant Pathology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (India)-125004 Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Among the various foliar diseases of onion, purple blotch (c.o. Alternaria porri) has been very common under north Indian conditions. An experiment was carried out at vegetable research area of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during 2011-12 rabi season. The experiment was carried out to find out the better chemical control and the suitable crop stage for the control of purple blotch. The treatments included, first Spray at 30 days after transplanting (DAT)- T1=Mancozeb 0.25%, T2= Mancozeb 0.25%, T3= Mancozeb 0.25% and Methomyl 0.8g/L, T4= Mancozeb 0.25% and Methomyl 0.8g/L, T5= Untreated check and T6= Methomyl 0.8g/L, second spray at 45DAT- T1= Propiconazole 0.1%, T2= Tricyclazole 0.1%, T3= Propiconazole 0.1% and Carbosulfan 2ml/L, T4= Tricyclazole 0.1% and Carbosulfan 2ml/L, Untreated check and T6= Carbosulfan 2ml/L and third spray- 60DAT- T1= Copper oxychloride 0.25%, T2= Hexaconazole 0.1%, T3= Copper oxychloride 0.25% and Profenofos 1ml/L, T4= Hexaconazole 0.1% and Profenofos 1ml/L, T5= Untreated check and T6= Profenofos 1ml/L. Maximum per cent disease incidence (PDI) observed in untreated check recorded was 28.4% at 30DAT. Though all treatments showed significant reduction in disease incidence, however, treatment T4 have shown the best control at 50 DAT and have shown 43.61% disease reduction i.e. from 13.3 to 7.5% as compared to other treatments and stages of application. The results concluded that Tricyclazole 0.1% in combination with Carbosulfan 2ml/L applied at 45DAT were more effective as compared to their single application. BP-23

Repellent effect of eucalyptus oil encapsulated in wax blocks against house rat, Rattus rattus Linnaeus Neena Singla and Ramandeep Kaur Department of Zoology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004, India E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

To determine the efficacy of eucalyptus oil (EO) encapsulated in wax blocks as repellent against house rat, R. rattus. Mature and healthy house rat, Rattus rattus of both sexes were exposed to 5, 10 and 20% EO in laboratory pens in bi-choice tests. Each concentration of the oil was applied as wax blocks encapsulating 3 drops (0.5 ml) of oil. Rats were exposed to each concentration of the oil for 3 weeks using three different modes of application i.e. applied daily, once a week and alternatively in a week. Repellent effect of the oil was assessed based on food consumption from treated and untreated sides for four days. Statistical analysis of the data (using SAS 9.3 software) revealed significantly (P ≤ 0.05) low consumption of bait from treatment side compared to untreated side at all three concentrations of EO and three modes of application. Percent repellency (PC) was found to be significantly (P ≤ 0.05) high with 5% EO applied daily in female rats and 10% EO applied daily in male rats. No significant difference in PC among the three modes of application was found with 20% EO in both male and female rats. In overall, PC was low when the oil was applied once a week and alternatively. Present studies thus reveal the potential of eucalyptus oil in repelling away R. rattus, however, further studies are required to be conducted to enhance the persistence of the repellent effect for longer period of time. Key words: eucalyptus oil, wax blocks, Rattus rattus

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TOXICITY OF DIFFERENT INSECTICIDES AGAINST Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) IN PUNJAB, INDIA Prabhjot Kaur1, B.K. Kang2 and Balwinder Singh3 Ph.D. Student, Deptt. Of Entomology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana – 141004, India. E-Mail: [email protected] Associate Professor, Deptt. Of Entomology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana – 141004, India. E-Mail: [email protected] Head, Deptt. Of Entomology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana – 141004, India.

Abstract

Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is one of the major pests of many crops in India. Toxicity of different insecticides was evaluated against this pest in populations collected from four different locations viz. Malerkotla, Hoshiarpur, Amritsar and Samrala of Punjab. Presently quinalphos, deltamethrin and one new chemistry indoxacarb insecticides at their lethal concentrations were tested against third instar larvae of S. litura, under laboratory conditions using leaf dip method recommended by IRAC. Based on LC50 values obtained, indoxacarb (0.000000056%) was found to be most toxic against all the pest populations followed by quinalphos (0.003%) and deltamethrin (0.0003%). This insecticide can thus prove to be promising substitutes for the effective control of insecticide resistant population of S. litura. Keywords: Spodoptera litura, indoxacarb, quinalphos, deltamethrin, toxicity

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” CP-1

ACCELERATING THE ADOPTION OF RESOURCE CONSERVING TECHNIQUES IN RICE – WHEAT CROPPING SYSTEM K.M. Choudhary1, Love Kumar Singh2, R.D. Jat3, A.K. Yadav4 and H.S. Jat5 Department of Agronomy, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural, Hisar – 125004 2&5 International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center(CIMMYT) -India

1,3&4

Abstract

The resource conservation technologies (RCTs) primarily focus on resource savings through minimal tillage, ensuring soil nutrients and moisture conservation through crop residues and growth of cover crops, and adoption of spatial and temporal crop sequencing. As a part of this strategy, resource conserving technologies (RCTs) play a major role in sustaining and enhancing the productivity of the rice-wheat system at a lower cost of production. Rice-wheat cropping system is the predominant cropping system in India as both rice and wheat are main staple food for the people of the country. Some of the RCTs that are being promoted in the rice-wheat belt of the Indo-Gangetic Plains are: zero tillage, laser land levelling, bed planting, surface seeding, rotary tillage, use of leaf colour chart, SPAD, Green Seeker and mechanical rice transplanter, etc. Resource Conservation Technologies Promote: Timely sowing- Better crop stands, Higher yields- Lower costs, Better nutrient & water use efficiency - Less water pollution and less groundwater mining, More diverse rotations- Fewer weeds and pests, Less use of fossil fuel- Reduced cost & CO2 emission, Prevent residue burning- More C sequestration & better soil health. Present agriculture scenario, especially in irrigated areas is dominated by monoculture of certain crops as more than 80% food comes from about 10 crop species. For instance diversifying rice-wheat system with berseem, mustard, sugarcane effectively minimizes Phalaris minor infestation where as inclusion of legumes for grain, fodder and green manure improves the fertility and soil health. CP-2

Improving the Productivity and Grain Biofortification of Rice and Wheat by Zinc and Boron Application through Seed Invigoration Techniques Abdul Rehman 1, * and Muhammad Farooq1, 2, 3 Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad-38040, Pakistan 2 The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia 3 College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia. *Corresponding author’s e-mail: [email protected] 1

Micronutrient deficiency is major health issue in the developing world. Pakistani soils are highly deficient in zinc (Zn) and boron (B) and these are the major micronutrient disorder in wheat and rice resulting in severe losses in yield and nutritional quality. Moreover, there is need to screen wheat and rice genotypes for higher uptake of Zn and B and their portioning in grains which will help in reducing malnutrition. Due to uneven distribution, repeated spraying and amount of nutrient required soil and foliar application of nutrients is difficult to practice by resource poor farmers. Micronutrient delivery through seed treatment is an attractive alternative as very little amount is needed in seed treatment and also the nutrients are available in the vicinity of emerging seedlings. However, there is need to optimize concentration of these nutrients through seed priming and seed coating as very narrow margin between the deficiency and toxicity of these nutrients exist. To optimize Zn and B application through seed treatment and screening of wheat and rice genotypes for Zn and B uptake and their grain partitioning a series of experiments were conducted. Micronutrient application (Zn, B) through seed treatment i.e. seed priming and seed coating improved seedling establishment, crop yield, and helped in improving Zn and B contents in grains of rice and wheat. There was a great variation among Zn and B portioning in the grains of rice and wheat genotypes. Wheat and rice cultivars better able for Zn and B acquisition and their partitioning in grains may be used for future breeding programs. Zinc and B application through seed treatment is cost effective and efficient method for correcting Zn and B deficiency and fortification of these nutrients in the grains.

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Soil Health, Resource Use Efficiency and System Productivity in Conventional and Conservation Rice-Wheat Cropping Systems Ahmad Nawaz1, * and Muhammad Farooq1, 2, 3 Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad-38040, Pakistan 2 The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia 3 College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia. * e-mail: [email protected] 1

Abstract

Looming water, labor, energy and environmental issues are threating the productivity of conventional rice wheat production systems. Conservation rice-wheat systems offer a pragmatic option to address all these issues. A series of experiments was conducted to compare the conventional and conservation rice-wheat cropping system for soil health, resource use efficiency and system productivity. The first experiment was conducted to evaluate the role of seed priming in improving the stand establishment and productivity of wheat in conservation and conventional rice based cropping systems. Seed priming not only improved the stand establishment but also the productivity of wheat in conventional and conservation wheat production systems. Wheat yields were higher after direct rice in primed seeds than transplanted rice. In second experiment, brown manuring and residue management were evaluated in conventional and conservation rice-wheat cropping system. Soil health was better after conservation systems as indicated by low values of soil bulk density than the conventional rice systems. Yields of rice in conservation and conventional rice systems were same but resource use efficiency was higher in conservation rice systems. Brown manuring with sesbania not only helped to control weeds in direct seeded rice but it also improved post rice wheat yield, which was similar to the wheat yield when it was sown after transplanted rice through conventional tilled method. System productivity was higher in direct seeded rice + Sesbania manuring followed by zero tillage wheat. In third experiment, the direct seeded rice and transplanted rice were evaluated at farmer’s fields in two location viz. Nankana Sahib and Sheikhupura for resource use efficiency and system productivity. The yield of direct seeded rice and transplanted rice were the same at both sites but resource use efficiency was better in direct seeded rice. Thus resource conservation promotion technologies must be promoted in rice-wheat belt to save water, labor and fuel resources. CP-4

Conservation Agriculture: an approach for resource saving agriculture P.S. John Daniel, Dheeraj Tiwari and V.P. Sriharsha Department of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana. Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Indian agriculture has been successful in increasing food grains production in the past, guided by the goals of ‘selfsufficiency’ in the country. The mission of increasing food grains production somehow stands achieved, however, accompanied by series of problems related to the environment and natural resources. Conservation agriculture can be seen as a new way forward for conserving resources and enhancing productivity to achieve the goals of sustainable agriculture, which demands a strong knowledge base and a combination of institutional and technological innovations. Conservation agriculture is a concept for resource-saving agricultural crop production that strives to achieve acceptable profits together with high and sustained production levels while concurrently conserving the environment. Interventions such as mechanical soil tillage are reduced to an absolute minimum and the use of external inputs such as agrochemicals and nutrients of mineral or organic origin are applied at an optimum level and in a way and quantity that does not interfere with or disrupt the biological processes. One of the soil conservation techniques developed known as ‘conservation tillage’, involves soil

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” management practices that minimise the disruption of the soil’s structure, composition and natural biodiversity, thereby minimising erosion and degradation. Conservation agriculture systems utilize soils for the production of crops with the aim of reducing excessive mixing of the soil and maintaining crop residues on the soil surface in order to minimize damage to the environment. Conservation agriculture can be done with objective to: (1) Provide and maintain an optimum environment of the root-zone to maximum possible depth. (2) Avoid physical or chemical damage to roots that disrupts their effective functioning. (3) Ensure that water enters the soil so that (a) plants never or for the shortest time possible, suffer water stress that will limit the expression of their potential growth; and so that (b) residual water passes down to groundwater and stream flow, not over the surface as runoff. (4) Favour beneficial biological activity in the soil. Because of increasing population and rising standards of living, it is essential to develop those agricultural practices that maximize agricultural production while also enhancing ecosystem. Keywords: Conservation agriculture, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, erosion, degradation. CP-5

ECO-FRIENDLY NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT IN WHEAT FOR ENHANCED SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION: A REVIEW Dheeraj Kr. Tiwari; Sanjay Kr. Thakral; Pardeep Sagwal; P. S. John Daniel; Sriharsha V. P. Department of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana. Email: [email protected] [email protected]

Abstract

At global level, India ranks as second largest wheat producing nation and contributing approximately 11.9% to the world wheat production from about 12% of global area. The area under wheat in India has become nearly constant around 29.65 million ha with the production of 92.46 million tonne. Application of all the needy nutrients through chemical fertilizers has deterious effect on soil health leading to unsustainable yields. One of the major constraints in boosting up the wheat production has deterious effect on soil health. Therefore; there is a need to improve nutrient supply system in terms of eco-friendly nutrient management involving the use of chemical fertilizers in conjunction with organic manures coupled with input through biological processes. Balanced fertilizer is the application of essential plant nutrients in light proportion and in optimum quantity for a specific soil crop condition. Continuous imbalanced use of fertilizer led to the deterioration in the soil fertility and decrease in soil productivity. Higher yield at balanced nutrition safe guard soil fertility. The basic concept underlying the eco-friendly nutrient management system, nevertheless, remains the maintenance and possible improvement of soil fertility for sustained crop productivity on long term-basis and also to reduce inorganic (fertilizer) input cost. the three main components of eco-friendly nutrient management system as defined by maintain or enhance soil productivity through a balanced use of fertilizers combined with organic and biological sources of plant nutrients, improve the stock of plant nutrients in the soils and improve the efficiency of plant nutrients, thus, limiting losses to the environment. Thus, eco-friendly nutrient management system aims at maintenance or adjustment of soil fertility and of plant nutrient supply to an optimum level for sustaining the desired crop productivity through optimization of benefit from all possible sources of plant nutrients in an integrated manner. Keywords: Sustainable, eco-friendly, nutrient management, organic, soil health.

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Magnetic field stimulation can improvestand establishment, growth and yield of late sown wheat Saman Saleem1*, Irfan Afzal1, Shahzad Maqsood Ahmad Basra1, Zia Ul Haq2and Hafeez Ur Rehman1 1 Seed Physiology Lab, Department of Crop Physiology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan 2 Department of Physics, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Low temperature at early seedling stage resulting in delayed stand establishment and high temperature at reproductive stage affecting grain filling period ultimately lowers the yield of late sown wheat.Magnetic field can enhance the germination and seedling growth of different crops but still is an ambiguity about prospects of magnetism. A field study was conducted to explore the potential of magnetic field for improving the performance of two late sown wheat cv. Lasani-2008 and Punjab-2011. Seeds were directly exposed to different magnetic field strengths (75 and 150 mT) as well as primed with magnetized treated water for 10 min. Seeds exposed to magnetic field and magnetic treated water considerably benefited stand establishment and subsequent growth of both cultivars. Likewise yield contributing factors, grain yield and harvest index were maximally improved in plants raised from magnetic field and magnetic treated water. Overall, results suggest that seed priming with magnetic treated water being simple and economical was comparatively better than magnetic field treatments. CP-7

Weed management in wheat crop Charanpreet Singh Buttar Associate Professor, Botany, Govt. Ripudaman College, Nabha, Patiala, Punjab, India Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Though weeds are the integral part of an area, these are known to cause loss in the production to various crops varying from 11.6% globally and 25% in India. Out of 30,000 species of weeds reported throughout the world nearly 18,000 species cause damage to crop plants in different ways(Sen. 1981). Wheat is the principal crop of Punjab, the area of which has increased significantly with the introduction of its new yielding varieties. In Punjab wheat crop about 70 species of weeds are reported. The agro-climatic conditions, types of soil and agricultural practices determine the weedy status of different weeds. Major weeds of wheat crop: Fumaria indica, Arabidopsis thaliana, Arenaria serpyllifolia, Silene conoidea, Ageratum conyzoides, Coronopus didymus, Lepidium sativum, Medicago polymorpha, Chenopodium album, C.murale, Vaccaria pyramidata, Stellaria media, Malva parviflora, Speragula fallax, Meliolotus alba, M. indica, Vicia hirsuta. V. sativa, Lathyrus aphaca, L. sativus, Orabanche aegyptiaca, Sonchus arvensis, S. oleraceus, Anagallis arvensis, Antrirrhinum orontium, Asphodelus tenuifolius, Phalaris minor var. nepalensis, Avena fatua, Polypogon monspeliensis, Lolium temulentum and Poa annua.

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Moringa Leaf Extract: A very effective natural crop growth enhancer ShahzadMaqsood Ahmed Basra, Irfan Afzal and Hafeez-ur-Rehman Department of Crop Physiology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

Crop plants have to face more than one abiotic stressintheir life cycle due to climate change. Development of tolerant varieties is a way to cope abiotic stresses. The performance of crop plants under such stresses can be enhanced by the exogenous application of growth promoting substances.Moringa oleifera L. is a rich natural source zeatin (a cytokinin), ascorbate, phenolics and minerals like Ca, K, Fe etc.Its leaf extract makes it an excellent growth enhancer.This paperfocusesthe role of moringa leaf extract (MLE) as natural plant growth enhancer when applied exogenously as seed priming or foliar agent in cereals i.e. wheat, rice and maize and horticultural crops i.e. pea under normal and stressful environments. CP-9

CONSERVATION TILLAGE IN WHEAT CULTIVATION FOR SOIL CARBON SEQUESTRATION Jagdish Singh*, M S Hadda and Dhanwinder Singh Department of Soil Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab-141004 Email : [email protected]

Abstract

Agriculture affects the environment by a number of ways including impacts on global warming through the emission of ‘greenhouse gases’, such as CO2, CH3, NOx , etc. Agriculture and land-use change contributes about 20% of the anthropogenic emissions of CO2. Agriculture has the potential to act as a sink for storing and sequestering CO2 from the atmosphere in the form of soil carbon. Agricultural management interventions can be adapted for the dual benefits of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing carbon sequestration. Tillage practices affect soil C reserve by exposing soil organic carbon to the climatic elements thereby increasing mineralization of C. Conservation tillage reduces the extent, frequency and magnitude of mechanical disturbance caused by the ploughing and protect soil organic carbon to be exposed to environment, thus slows the rate of carbon oxidation. Any effort to decrease tillage intensity and maximizing residue retention may result in carbon sequestration for enhanced environmental quality. Conservation tillage practices could serve the purpose of carbon sequestration by minimizing soil disturbance, carbon oxidation from surface soil and retrain more crop residue, which result in increase in soil organic carbon. Conservation tillage practices such as Zero tillage drill and Happy Seeder (another form of zero till drill) for wheat cultivation saves energy (fuel), reduces cost of production (Labour), helps reverse soil and land degradation (i.e decline of soil organic matter, soil structural breakdown, and soil erosion), and leads to improved water productivity and soil health.

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Variation in Phosphorus Uptake through Root Associated Traits in PigeonpeaGenotypes Sukhpreet Kaur Sidhu, Jagmeet Kaur *and Jasdeep Kaur * Department of Botany (*Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics) Punjab Agricultural University E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

The study was designed to assess genotypic variation among pigeonpea genotypes for phosphorus uptake through root associated traits at Punjab Agricultural University. Forty three genotypes were screened for their ability to take up and utilize soluble phosphorus at different rates of P supply. The experiment was conducted in completely randomized block design with eight replication in pots with two phosphorus levels (No added phosphorus and supplied with recommended dose of phosphorus).The objective of the study was to investigate the root morpho-physiological traits. Significant variation was observed among genotypes for root associated traits. P use efficient genotypes showed higher root length, root dry weight and shoot dry weight under low P conditions. The Genotype AL-1843 recorded highest root length under P deficient condition. The genotypes IC-245507, AL- 1881, P-954 and ICPL 91024 depicted better shoot and root parameters.The P use efficient genotypes recorded higher root dry weight over low P uptake types. P use efficient genotypes showed better root associated traits. Keywords: Pigeonpea genotypes, P acquisition, P utilization, Root traits, CP-11

EFFECT OF DIFFERENT MEDIA AND GROWING CONTAINERS ON GROWTH, YIELD AND QUALITY OF STRAWBERRY (Fragaria x ananassa DUCH.) Vikas Kumar Sharma and A.K. Godara Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) is the most refreshing and delicious fruit crop which belong to the family Rosaceae. It is a rich source of vitamins and minerals with delicate flavors. An experiment was conducted at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during the year 2012-13 under poly house condition with seven treatments and five replications in pot culture. Organic media like: control (garden soil), Cocopeat + Perlite + Vermicompost (2:1:1), Cocopeat + Perlite + Vermicompost (3:1:1), Cocopeat + Perlite + Vermicompost (4:0:1), Cocopeat + Perlite + Vermicompost (4:1:0), Cocopeat + Perlite + Vermicompost (4:1:1) and Cocopeat + Perlite + Vermicompost (4:1:2). Among all the treatments the increase in number of leaf, Petiole length, plant height, plant spread and crown diameter was recorded with Cocopeat + Perlite + Vermicompost (4:1:2) and early flowering was observed with Cocopeat + Perlite + Vermicompost (3:1:1) maximum yield and quality fruit was found with cocopeat + Perlite + Vermicompost (3:1:1) which was at par with Cocopeat + Perlite + Vermicompost (4:1:2). Cocopeat + Perlite + Vermicompost (3:1:1) recorded the best organic media for growth, yield and quality attributes of strawberry.

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MANAGEMENT OF CROP RESIDUES FOR SUSTAINABLE CROP PRODUCTION Bhani Ram1, P.S. Pandit and Tanveer Ahmad Center of Excellence on Post Harvest Technology, ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agriculture University, Navsari, Gujarat, 396 450 Email- [email protected]

Abstract

Crop residues are the parts of plants left in the field after the crops have been harvested and thrashed. It is well recognized that the organic matter content of a soil is a key attribute of fertility. The beneficial effects of organic matter on the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil are well documented. Decline in organic matter content and cut down soil fertility in intensive cropping systems is considered to be the major problem. Additions of organic materials such as crop residues play a vital role in the recycling of nutrients. Moreover, More than one half of all dry matter in the global harvest is in the form of residues, and in most developing countries the amounts of nutrients in residues are often several orders of magnitude higher than the amounts applied as fertilizers. Thus, soundly management of crop residues for the maintenance of soil fertility cannot be overstressed. India produces about 500 million tons (Mt) of crop residues annually. These residues are used as animal feed, composting, thatching for rural homes and fuel for domestic and industrial use. What is more, about 25% of Nitrogen, 25% Phosphorus, 50% of Sulphur and 75% of Potassium uptake by cereal crops are retained in residues. Such residues can be utilized as organic manures and can improve soil fertility for long term. In the contrary, the chemical fertilizers more hazards for soil property and human beings and animals who use the produce. CP-13

INTERCROPPING OF CHLOROPHYTUM BORIVILIANUM WITH VIGNA RADIATA: AN ECONOMICAL VIABLE APPROACH FOR SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE *Dr. Rajinder Kaur, *Professor Saroj Arora, **Professor Avtar Singh and *Professor A.K. Thukral *Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar-143005, Punjab, India ** Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, PAU, Ludhiana. *Email:[email protected]

Abstract

Chlorophytum borivilianum is a medicinal plant and commonly known as safed musli. The tuberous roots of this plant are used in Ayurvedic, Unani, Homeopathic and Allopathic systems of medicine. It is useful in curing impotency and is referred to as ‘Natural Viagra’. In Ayurveda, it is called as Vajikaran Rasayana because of its positive influence on sexual performance in man. It is enlisted among the list of 59 selected priority medicinal plants, the cultivation and export of which is being actively encouraged by the Government of India through the National Medicinal Plant Board, and a subsidy of 20% is provided by the Government for its cultivation. The demand for C. borivilianum in the world market is resulting in it’s over exploitation in the wild state, pushing the plant to the verge of extinction. Keeping this in mind, cultivation of C. borivilianum was done in the experimental field and intercropping studies with Vigna radiata (moong) were carried out to reduce the cost of cultivation. The field in the botanical garden was ploughed and harrowed. After land preparation, furrows and ridges were made. Plants were propagated by tubers on ridges in the month of June. Seeds of moong were dibbled on both slopes of furrows. It was found that safed musli growing with moong was found to be better in growth as compared to control. Intercropping of C. borivilianum with moong can reduce the cultivation cost as well as promote the growth of this valuable plant.

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INTERCROPPING SYSTEM OF GOBHI SARSON (BRASSICA NAPUS VAR. NAPUS) AND OATS FODDER (AVENA SATIVA L.) Charanpreet Singh and Thakar Singh Department of Agronomy, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004, Punjab, India E-mail:[email protected]

Abstract

A field experiment was carried out at Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana during 2012-13. Fifteen intercropping systems ( gobhi sarson verities GSL 1 and GSC 6, row spacing i.e. 45, 60, 75 and 90 cm, three planting patterns i.e. 1:1, 1:2 and 1:3) were evaluated in a randomized block design with four replications with dual objective to find optimum row spacing and suitable variety of gobhi sarson. There was no significant difference for number of seed per siliquae and 1000-seed weight among all the intercropping systems. Growing of oats fodder as an intercrop in gobhi sarson did not show any adverse effect on the seed yield of gobhi sarson sown at 45 and 60 cm row spacing. All the intercropping systems recorded significantly higher gobhi sarson equivalent yield and net returns as compared to sole cropping systems. It was also observed that variety GSL 1 sown at 45, 60, 75 and 90 cm row spacing with oats fodder as an intercrop at planting patterns of 1:1, 1:2, 1:2 and 1:3, respectively and GSC 6 at 60 and 90 cm row spacing with oats fodder at planting patterns of 1:2 and 1:3, respectively can be grown for getting higher total productivity and net returns per unit area per unit time. CP-15

MANAGEMENT OF CROP RESIDUES FOR SUSTAINABLE CROP PRODUCTION Bhani Ram1, P.S. Pandit and Tanveer Ahmad Center of Excellence on Post Harvest Technology, ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agriculture University, Navsari, Gujarat, 396 450 Email : [email protected]

Abstract

Crop residues are the parts of plants left in the field after the crops have been harvested and thrashed. It is well recognized that the organic matter content of a soil is a key attribute of fertility. The beneficial effects of organic matter on the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil are well documented. Decline in organic matter content and cut down soil fertility in intensive cropping systems is considered to be the major problem. Additions of organic materials such as crop residues play a vital role in the recycling of nutrients. Moreover, More than one half of all dry matter in the global harvest is in the form of residues, and in most developing countries the amounts of nutrients in residues are often several orders of magnitude higher than the amounts applied as fertilizers. Thus, soundly management of crop residues for the maintenance of soil fertility cannot be overstressed. India produces about 500 million tons (Mt) of crop residues annually. These residues are used as animal feed, composting, thatching for rural homes and fuel for domestic and industrial use. What is more, about 25% of Nitrogen, 25% Phosphorus, 50% of Sulphur and 75% of Potassium uptake by cereal crops are retained in residues. Such residues can be utilized as organic manures and can improve soil fertility for long term. In the contrary, the chemical fertilizers more hazards for soil property and human beings and animals who use the produce.

378


MOISTURE STRESS MANAGEMENT IN WHEAT (Triticum aestivum L.) M. D. Patil*, A. S. Dhindwal and Sriharsha. V. P. CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar 125004

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important cereal crops in the world. It is grown across a wide range of environments around the world and has the highest adaptation among all the crop species. A field experiment entitled, “Moisture stress management in wheat” was conducted at Agronomy Research Farm of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, during rabi seasons of 2010-11 and 2011-12. The treatment consisted of four moisture regimes in main plots viz., irrigation at crown root initiation (CRI) + 100 mm cumulative pan evaporation (CPE), CRI + 150 mm CPE, CRI + 200 mm CPE and CRI only, and six moisture stress management practices in sub plot viz., No moisture stress management, seed hardening (SH) by CaCl2, SH + KCl spray at 90 days after sowing (DAS), SH + mycorrhizae application at sowing + KCl spray, SH + mycorrhizae + KCl spray + kaolin spray at 115 DAS and pusa hydrogel application at sowing. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications in sandy loam soil. The parameters like, plant height, numbers of tillers, leaf area index, leaf area duration, dry matter accumulation, crop growth rate, during both the season were found to be highest with irrigation at CRI + 100 mm CPE and lowest with irrigation at CRI only. Similar trend was recorded in terms of grain, straw and biological yields, harvest index, number of spikes per m2, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, grain weight per spike and test weight. Moisture stress management practices involving SH + mycorrhizae + KCl spray + kaolin spray had favorable impact on growth parameters viz., plant height, numbers of tillers, leaf area index, leaf area duration, dry matter accumulation, crop growth rate, and yield parameters viz., number of spikes per m2, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, grain weight per spike and test weight. Similarly this practice of moisture stress management produced higher grain, straw and biological yield as well. CP-17

ECONOMICALLY VIABLE APPROACHES FOR ADVANCEMENT IN AGRICULTURE INTERCROPPING OF CHLOROPHYTUM BORIVILIANUM WITH VIGNA RADIATA: AN ECONOMICAL VIABLE APPROACH FOR SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE *Dr. Rajinder Kaur, *Professor Saroj Arora, **Professor Avtar Singh and *Professor A.K. Thukral *Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar-143005, Punjab, India ** Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, PAU, Ludhiana.*Email:[email protected]

Abstract

Chlorophytum borivilianum is a medicinal plant and commonly known as safed musli. The tuberous roots of this plant are used in Ayurvedic, Unani, Homeopathic and Allopathic systems of medicine. It is useful in curing impotency and is referred to as ‘Natural Viagra’. In Ayurveda, it is called as Vajikaran Rasayana because of its positive influence on sexual performance in man. It is enlisted among the list of 59 selected priority medicinal plants, the cultivation and export of which is being actively encouraged by the Government of India through the National Medicinal Plant Board, and a subsidy of 20% is provided by the Government for its cultivation. The demand for C. borivilianum in the world market is resulting in it’s over exploitation in the wild state, pushing the plant to the verge of extinction. Keeping this in mind, cultivation of C. borivilianum was done in the experimental field and intercropping studies with Vigna radiata (moong) were carried out to reduce the cost of cultivation. The field in the botanical garden was ploughed and harrowed. After land preparation, furrows and ridges were made. Plants were propagated by tubers on ridges in the month of June. Seeds of moong were dibbled on both slopes of furrows. It was found that safed musli growing with moong was found to be better in growth as compared to control. Intercropping of C. borivilianum with moong can reduce the cultivation cost as well as promote the growth of this valuable plant.

379


PRODUCTIVITY, PROFITABILITY AND INDICES AS INFLUENCED BY PEARLMILLET + CLUSTERBEAN INTERCROPPING SYSTEMS IN ARID WESTERN RAJASTHAN Ashish Kumar, B L Pareek, and Amit Kumawat1 Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, SKRAU, Bikaner, 1CAZRI, RRS, Bikaner Email : [email protected]

Abstract

Intercropping provides better opportunity to accommodate legume which are otherwise neglected crops. Among the major crops compatible with Pearlmillet as intercrops, clusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.)Taub] is one of them. It is an annual legume of dry and warm habitat and characterized as one of the most drought hardy annual legumes in arid regions. Clusterbean with deep and fast penetrating root system with drought avoidance capabilities, can survive and thrive up to long period in open fields exhibiting fast depletion of soil moisture coupled with very high atmospheric temperature values. The multi adaptive and adjusting nature of this crop has enabled it to become a crucial part of all type of cropping and farming system of the arid regions. Keeping these views a field experiment was conducted during kharif 2010 at Agronomy farm, college of Agriculture, Bikaner. The experiment comprising 12 treatments combination replicated four times, was laid out in randomized block design with combination of one sole pearlmillet, one sole clusterbean and ten pearlmillet+clusterbean treatments (1:3, 1:7, 2:2, 2:6, 3:1, 3:5, 4:4, 5:3, 6:2 and 7:1 row ratio). Results showed that the sole pearlmillet at 45 cm recorded significantly higher grain, stover and biological yields compared to all the intercropping treatments except 5:3 and 3:1 row ratios. Among intercropping treatments 7:1 row ratio recorded significantly higher grain, stover and biological yield over other treatments, however in case of clusterbean the sole clusterbean recorded significantly higher mean grain and straw yield compared to all intercropping treatments. However, among intercropping treatments 1:7 row ratio was significantly higher to all other treatments. The sole clusterbean had maximum net returns. Among intercropping treatments 1:7 row ratio had maximum return (Rs.35790) but statistically at par with 1:3, 2:6 and 3:5 row ratio. The pearlmillet+clusterbean at 1:3 row ratio recorded significantly highest mean B:C ratio over all other systems closely followed by 1:7 and sole clusterbean (30cm). The intercropping of pearlmillet + clusterbean at 1:7 row ratio recorded maximum pearlmillet equivalent yield and was statistically at par with sole clusterbean (30cm), pearlmillet + clusterbean 1:3 and 2:6 row ratio. The intercropping system in which 1:7 row ratio recorded maximum land equivalent ratio (LER) followed by 1:3, 2:2, 2:6, 5:3 and 3:5 row ratio. Intercropping of pearlmillet and clusterbean in all the row ratio recorded positive sign of aggressivity which indicates that clusterbean offered no competition to pearlmillet in these treatments. In all the intercropping treatments of pearlmillet + clusterbean there was yield disadvantage in clusterbean except 4:4 row ratio, whereas, in case of pearlmillet there is yield advantage in all intercropping combination. CP-19

RELATIVE EFFICIENCY OF PHOSPHATIC FERTILISERS (SSP+PSB) IN SOYBEAN Ekta Kumari1 and kamalesh kumar2 Banaras Hindu University,Varanasi 1 Central agricultural University Imphal Manipur 2

Abstract

Phosphorus is an important plant nutrient involved in several energy transformation and biochemical reactions including biological nitrogen fixation. Phosphatic fertilizers have low efficiency of utilization due to chemical fixation in soil (Mengel and Kirkby, 2001) and due to poor solubility of native soil phosphorus, sometimes there is a buildup of insoluble phosphorus as a result of chemical phosphorus application (Dubey, 1997). Phosphorus (P) is a major growth-limiting nutrient, and unlike the case for nitrogen, there is no large atmospheric source that can be made biologically available (Ezawa et al., 2002). Root development, stalk and stem strength, flower and seed formation, crop maturity and production, crop quality, and resistance to plant diseases are the attributes associated with phosphorus nutrition. Although microbial inoculants are in use for improving soil fertility during the last century, however, a meager work has been reported on P

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” solubilization compared to nitrogen fixation. Soil P dynamics is characterized by physicochemical (sorption-desorption) and biological (immobilization-mineralization) processes. P is needed in relatively large amounts by legumes for growth and nitrogen fixation and has been reported to promote leaf area, biomass, yield, nodule number, nodule mass, etc., in a number of legumes (Berg and Lynd, 1985; Pacovsky, et al., 1986; Kasturikrishna and Ahlawat, 1999). Phosphorus deficiency can limit nodulation by legumes and P fertilizer application can overcome the deficiency (Carsky et al., 2001). CP-20

RESPONSE OF SULPHYDRYL COMPOUNDS WITH MOISTURE STRESS ON YIELD AND QUALITY OF SUMMER GREENGRAM (Vigna radiata L.) UNDER NORTH GUJARAT AGRO CLIMATIC CONDITION Soma Devi1, P.T. Patel2, K.M. Choudhary3 and P.Meena4 Department of Agronomy, Chimanbhai Patel College of Agriculture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar - 385 506

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during summer 2011 at Agronomy Instructional Farm, C. P. College of Agriculture, S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar. It was laid out in split plot design and replicated four times. Sixteen treatment combinations comprising of two moisture stress treatments viz., M1- No moisture stress (irrigation at all growth stages) and M2 – Moisture stress at vegetative stage (missing irrigation at vegetative stage) with eight treatments of SH-compounds viz., S1 – control, S2 – water spray, S3 – Thiourea 250 ppm, S4 - Thiourea 500 ppm, S5 – Thiourea 750 ppm, S6 – Thioglycolic acid 100 ppm, S7 - Thioglycolic acid 200 ppm and S8 - Thioglycolic acid 300 ppm were tested on summer green gram cv. GM 4. Both the SH compounds and water spray was performed twice i.e., at 25 and 45 DAS. With regard seed yield was not influenced but stover yield was significantly reduced due to imposing of moisture stress at vegetative stage (M2). More over moisture stress treatments did not reflect conspicuous effect on protein content and protein yield. The increase in seed yield and stover yield with Thiourea 500 ppm (S4) over control (S1) was to the tune of 58 and 84% respectively. In case of protein content and protein yield, the Thiourea 500 ppm (S4) emerged out as a leading treatment among the SH compounds. Foliar spray of thiourea@ 500 ppm twice at 25 and 45 DAS proved most effective to get higher yield from summer greengram. CP-21

RESPONSE OF SOURCES AND LEVELS OF SULPHUR ON YIELD, QUALITY AND ECONOMICS OF SESAME (SESAMUM INDICUM L.) B. Saini, B. T. Patel, B. L. Yadav, S. K. Yadav and B. K. Yadav Department of Agricultural Chemistry & Soil Science, C. P. College of Agriculture, S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar - 385 506 (Gujarat)

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at Agronomy Instructional Farm, S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar during kharif 2012. Two sources of sulphur viz., S1= Elemental sulphur and S2= Gypsum and four levels of sulphur viz., L1= 15 kg S ha-1, L2= 30 kg S ha-1, L3= 45 kg S ha-1 and L4= 60 kg S ha-1 were tried in randomized block design with factorial concepts with four replications. The soil of the experimental field was loamy sand in texture, alkaline in reaction and soluble salt content under safe limit. It was low in organic carbon, available N and S; medium in available P2O5, K2O and DTPA-extractable Fe and Zn and having sufficient DTPA-extractable Mn and Cu status. An application of S @ 45 kg ha-1 significantly improved all the growth and yield attributes such as plant height at harvest, number of branches plant-1, number of capsules plant-1, length of capsule and 1000-seeds weight, seed and stalk yield over its lower levels, but remained at par with 60 kg S ha-1. Similarly, application of 45 kg S ha-1 produced significantly higher seed, stalk yields, oil content in seed and its yield, net return and BCR over other levels of sulphur.

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Respones of vermicompost and fertility levels on growth, yield, nutrient uptake and net returns on pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) Rakesh choudhary and Suman Parihar* Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Agronomy, CCS HAU, Hisar-125004 *Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334006 E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

The result of the study indicated the application 6 t/ha vermicompost remaining at par with 4 t/ha significantly increased plant height, effective tiller, grain weight per ear head, nutrient content and uptake . While application of 100% RDF (60 kg N and 30 kg P2 O5/ha) significantly enhanced plant growth at all stage of crop and the treatment recorded an increase of 15.9, 9.2, and 3.2 percent over control, 50 and 75% RDF, respectively. That result indicated significantly higher grain (1988 and 1853 kg/ha) yield with vermicompost @ 6 t/ha and 4 t/ha, respectively. While grain yield of 1916 kg/ha and 1799 kg/ ha with application 100% RDF and 75% RDF, respectively. Application of vermicompost @ 6 t/ha recorded significantly higher N content in grain (1.90%) and stover (0.64%) indicating an increase of 10.4 and 16.3 over control,13.5 and 8.4 over 2 t/ha and 16.6 and 3.2 percent over 4 t/ha, respectively. While, use of 100% RDF topped the list by recording remarkably higher N content in grain (2.04%) and stover (0.68 %). Application of 6 t/ha of vermicompost significantly increased N and P uptake in pearl millet. The highest net return (Rs. 11785) was obtained with vermicompost @ 2 t/ha and minimum with 6 t/ha vermicompost. Application of 100% RDF significantly increased nutrient content, nutrient uptake and net return (Rs. 13798 per ha) and proved significantly superior to all the lower levels of fertility. CP-23

Rice Grain Enrichment for Zinc, Agronomic or Genetic Interventions 1

Hafeez ur Rehman1*, Abdul Wakeel2, Muhammad Farooq3 and Shehzad Maqsood Ahmed Basra1 Department of Crop Physiology, 3Department of Agronomy, 2Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad-38040 Pakistan E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

Zinc (Zn) deficiency is widespread problem in rice systems. Changes in soil, plant and fertilizer application method and time have great implication for Zn bioavailability. We conducted pot and field experiments to evaluate the Zn application time effect on soil and plant Zn status, nursery seedling growth, dry matter accumulation, panicle sterility, crop yield and grain Zn contents. Rice systems i.e. flooded (CF), water saving direct seeded (DSR), alternate wetting drying (AWD) and system of rice intensification (SRI) were studied. Zn was applied as soil (25 kg ha-1 ZnSO4) or foliar (0.5% ZnSO4) at critical growth stages (basal at transplanting, tillering and panicle initiation) or as root dipping of nursery seedlings. Fine grain aromatic rice genotypes Super Basmati, Bas-515, Bas-385 and Bas-2000 were used. All other practices were kept uniform. Results suggested that variation exist among rice genotypes, rice systems and fertilizer application time and methods. Among the rice systems, highest paddy yield was found for flooded rice followed by AWD or DSR. Soil Zn application at transplanting or tillering stages had greater plant, soil and grain Zn contents and reduced panicle sterility. Among genotypes highest grain Zn contents were recorded for Super Basmati or Bas-385 followed by Bas-2000 and Bas515. Nonetheless, for agronomic biofortification, necessary variability among rice genotypes should be considered without sacrificing yield and paddy soil condition needs to be managed for high soil Zn availability. Further, mechanisms for soil Zn uptake at root and plant level are warranted.

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INTEGRATED NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT IN POTATO (Solanum tuberosum L.) UTILIZING BIOFERTILIZERS D S Khurana, Sakshi Verma, Kulbir Singh and Hira Singh Department of Vegetable Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004

Abstract

Potato, being a shallow rooted crop is highly responsive to the application of inorganic fertilizers as compared to other solanaceous vegetable crops like tomato and capsicum. Excessive use of fertilizer results in loss of soil fertility and soil health. Biofertilizers are cost effective, eco-friendly and renewable source of plant nutrients to supplement the chemical fertilizers. The present investigation was thus undertaken by utilizing inoculants of biofertilizers in order to either enhance atmospheric nitrogen or activate the unavailable form of nutrients into available form. The study was conducted in randomized complete block design which was replicated thrice with ten treatment combinations during 2010-2012. The plant material comprised potato cultivar Kufri Chandramukhi of potato. The tubers were treated with the cultures of Azospirillum, Azotobactor and Phosphorous solublising bacteria (PSB) @ 250g/acre while culture of Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizae (VAM) was applied in the soil at the same rate before planting the crop. The cultures were applied with 25 % reduction of either nitrogen or phosphorous. The observations recorded were various growth and yield contributing parameters. The study depicted improvement in the growth in form of leaf area, leaf chlorophyll content, number of tubers per plant thus yield of the tubers with the use of Azotobactor and Azospirillum alongwith 75 % nitrogen applied through inorganic source which did not differ significantly where recommended dose of fertilizers was applied. It was revealed from the study that inoculation with phosphorous solublising biofertilizers cultures also saved 25 % phosphorous when applied alongwith recommended dose of nitrogen and potassium. CP-25

MAXIMIZATION OF WATER USE EFFICIENCY AND PRODUCTIVITY IN KABULI CHICKPEA THROUGH PLANTING METHODS AND IRRIGATION SCHEDULING Navneet Aggarwal1, Guriqbal Singh2 and Hari Ram3 Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Email: [email protected] Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India

1,2,3

Abstract

Continuous cultivation of rice-wheat crops in sequence in North western India has led to irrigation water crisis due to excessive withdrawal of underground water. Chickpea is one of the promising crops which can replace wheat crop. Field experiment comprising four irrigation treatments viz. no irrigation, one irrigation at branching stage, one irrigation at podding stage and two irrigations (branching and podding stage) and two planting methods viz. flat sowing at 30 cm row spacing and raised bed sowing (67.5 cm wide beds having 2 rows at 30 cm ) was conducted in a sandy loam soil at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India during winter season of 2008-09 in split plot design to find out suitable planting method and phenological stage for irrigating kabuli chickpea for higher productivity and water use efficiency. Irrigation at branching stage gave statistically similar yield (1804 kg ha-1) to irrigations at branching + podding stage (1885 kg ha-1) but out yielded significantly no irrigation (1456 kg ha-1) and irrigation at podding stage (1599 kg ha-1). Raised bed sowing of kabuli chickpea yielded significantly higher (1749 kg ha-1) than flat sowing (1623 kg ha-1) due to significantly higher number of pods plant-1 and seed size. One irrigation at branching stage gave 12.8 and 13.4 % higher water use efficiency than one irrigation at podding stage and two irrigations (branching and podding stage), respectively. Raised bed sowing gave higher water use efficiency (5.94 kg ha-1 mm-1) over flat sowing (5.25 kg ha-1 mm-1). So, under limiting water conditions, kabuli chickpea sowing on raised bed with irrigation at branching stage results in the high water use efficiency and productivity is comparable to two irrigations (branching and podding stage). Key words: Chickpea, irrigation, planting methods, water use efficiency

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Sustainable agriculture through natural resource management Improved technologies for efficient input use Interactive effects of irrigation regimes and cultivars on water productivity of dry-seeded rice. Ritika Joshi Department of Soil Science Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Ludhiana-141004 (Punjab), India Email: [email protected]

Abstract

An alarming fall in groundwater table in India demands a major shift from traditional method (transplanting) of rice cultivation to direct seeding of rice. Irrigated lowland rice is the most important agricultural ecosystem in Asia, and the food security of most of its population depends on it. Flood-irrigated rice utilizes two or three times more water than other cereal crops such as maize and wheat. In dry-seeded rice seeds are directly broadcasted in the main field under non puddle conditions. On the face of global water scarcity and escalating labour rates, when the future of rice production is under threat, direct-seeded rice offers an attractive alternative (Farooq et al 2011). Direct sowing of rice refers to the process of establishing a rice crop from seeds sown in the field rather than transplanting seedlings from the nursery. The various management techniques that reduce irrigation water amount and labor requirement with sustaining yields are urgently required. Proper irrigation regimes and cultivars were adopted to improve water productivity in dry-seeded rice and reduce ground water depletion. Water productivity was higher in I1.2 than I2.4 IW (irrigation water) to CPE (cumulative pan evaporation) ratios because higher number of irrigation in higher irrigation ratio as compared to lower irrigation ratio. And also water productivity was higher in PR115 (short duration) as compared to PR114 (medium duration) cultivar. The combination of I1.2 PR115 revealed highest water productivity followed by I1.2 PR114, I2.4 PR115 and lowest in I2.4 PR114. Yields were also observed to be higher in PR115 as compared to PR114 with lower irrigation ratio than higher irrigation ratio in both the cultivars. Keywords: Irrigation regimes, Cultivars, Water productivity, Dry-seeded rice. CP-27

Growth and Yield Response of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum L.) to applied phosphorus, molybdenum and PSB. Shweta Sharma, Yogesh Sharma and B.L. Kumawat Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, SKRAU, Bikaner – 334 006, Rajasthan, India. Email : [email protected]

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at Agronomy farm, College of Agriculture, Bikaner during rabi season, 2010-11. Results showed that application of 40 kg P2O5 ha-1, increasing dose of molybdenum up to 0.5 kg Mo ha-1 and inoculation of seed with PSB significantly enhanced the branches per plant, chlorophyll content at flowering stage, nodules per plant, pods per plant, seeds per pod, seed and straw yield, protein and nitrogen content in seed whereas, nitrogen content in straw increased significantly only up to 20 kg P2O5 ha-1. The optimum dose of phosphorus was worked out to be 50.72 kg ha-1 and of molybdenum was 0.65 kg ha-1. The seed yield was significantly and positively correlated with yield attributes. Keywords: Fenugreek, Molybdenum, Phosphorus, PSB

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GROWTH AND YIELD OF INTERCROPPED MUNGBEAN (VIGNA RADIATA) UNDER DIFFERENT ROW ARRANGEMENTS ON VARIABLE PLANTING TIME IN PAIRED ROW TRENCH PLANTED SPRING SUGARCANE (SACCHARUM OFFICINARUM) Baltej Singh, Jayesh Singh, Avtar Singh and Guriqbal Singh Department of Agronomy, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004, Punjab, India E-mail:[email protected]

Abstract

The greatest concern of burgeoning population of India is the food and nutritional security. The per capita availability of dietary protein below the nutritionally recommended level to a self sufficient level can only be obtained with increased production of pulses. Limited availability of area under pure pulse crop puts more pressure to explore the possibility of including short duration pulses particularly mungbean as an intercrop in a widely spaced crop like sugarcane. Hence a field investigation consisting of twelve treatments in randomized block design with four replications was carried out at Punjab Agricultural University’s Sugarcane Experimental Area, Ladhowal, Punjab during spring 2012. The mungbean was intercropped on 1st, 14th, 28th March and 11th April in 1:1, 1:2 and 1:3 row arrangements in paired row trench planted spring sugarcane. The soil of experimental site was loamy sand, normal in reaction, low in organic carbon and available nitrogen, medium in phosphorus and potassium. The periodic delay in intercropping of mungbean from 1st March to 11th April in paired row trench planted spring sugarcane within the same row arrangement improved germination percentage, plant height and dry matter accumulation of mungbean significantly. However, other growth parameters like number of nodules, dry weight of nodules per plant, 100 seed weight and harvest index remained uninfluenced with mungbean intercropping in different row arrangements on different sowing dates. The maximum grain yield of intercropped mungbean (687.1 kg/ ha) was obtained when it was planted on 28th March in 1:3 row arrangements in sugarcane and it was statistically on par to the yield of mungbean (677.6 kg/ha) intercropped on similar dates in 1:2 row arrangements. Also on increasing the plant density of intercropped mungbean from 1 row to 3 rows on variable dates in paired row trench planted spring sugarcane significantly improved it’s grain and biological yield. CP-29

FERTILIZERS RECOMMENDATION BASED ON SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION OF SOIL AVAILABLE NUTRIENTS USING GIS AND REMOTE SENSING IN THE POTATO GROWING POCKETS OF HOSHIARPUR DISTRICT OF PUNJAB MK Jatav* and BD Sharma** Senior Scientist, Crop Production, Central Institute for Arid Horticulture, Bikaner Head, Crop Production, Central Institute for Arid Horticulture, Bikaner *email id: [email protected]

Abstract

In order to apply nutrients based upon soil status, it is necessary to know the location specific variability in nutrient supply to overcome the mismatch of fertilizer rates and crop nutrient demand. The soil samples of the many pockets of Hoshiarpur district of Punjab were collected and analysed for pH, OC and available NPK. Results were fed into GIS software and spatial maps were generated. The results showed that the soils of the district in general, are slightly acidic to slightly alkaline in reaction. The reaction of the soil samples varies from 5.0 to 8.2 with a mean value of 6.8. About 90% of the total area fell in pH value less than 7.5, a situation considered much suitable for potato cultivation. The organic carbon in these soils ranged from low to medium (0.2 to 0.7%) with an average value of 0.40%. Available N ranged from 186.3 to 355.6 with

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” mean value of 242.5 kg/ ha. While more than 88% samples had available P more than 20 ppm. None of the sample was deficient in available P, suggesting very liberal use of P fertilizers in these areas. Less than 2% samples were found to be high in available K, whereas, 79% samples were low and remaining 19.2% samples were medium in available K status. After kriging, results showed that 30.5 and 18.8% area was under high and very high in P but low in N and K. Similarly, about 17.3% area was medium in available N and very high in P but low in available K and 12.8% area was medium in both available N and K but very high in P. Since farmers are not aware of the available soil nutrient soil status, application rate are not matching with the requirement of the crop. In the majority of area where available P was more than 50 kg ha-1 recommendation for P fertilizer application reduced to a meager amount. However, for the same target yields when soil test values in some part of the pocket increased the recommendation of fertilizers of NPK will be decreased. Maps can further be overlaid on the digitized boundaries of village/block/tehsil to prioritize the villages which need immediate attention of the district officials, scientists, and individual farmer in respect of application/management of required amount and kind of macro nutrients. It is also possible to monitor the changes taking place at different locations over a period of time due to different cropping systems and management practices with respect to nutrient status and other soil properties. CP-30

Strategies for Water-wise Rice Production Muhammad Farooq Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad-38040, Pakistan The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia. E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Rice is lifeline for the peoples of Asia; for them, life without rice is unthinkable. However, food security in the world is challenged by increasing food demand and threatened by declining water availability owing to changing climate. Developing the strategies for producing rice in changing climate is imperative to ensure food security for the future generations. Aerobic rice culture is an attractive alternative in this regard, which can drastically cut down the unproductive water outflows and increase water-use efficiency. This shift will produce profound changes in water conservation, soil organic matter turnover, nutrient dynamics, carbon impounding, weed flora, and greenhouse gas emissions. Although some of these changes can be positive, for example, water conservation and decreased methane emission, others might be negative, for example, release of nitrous oxide from the soil and decline in soil organic matter. The challenge will be to develop effective integrated natural–resource–management interventions, which would allow profitable rice cultivation with increased soil aeration, while maintaining the productivity, environmental safety, and sustainability of rice-based ecosystems. In my talk, I shall discuss the integrated approaches like genetics, breeding, and resource management to increase rice yield and to reduce water demand for rice production. CP-31

Effect of Zinc, Iron and Thiourea application on productivity of Forage Oats and Groundnut crop in Arid lands of Rajasthan S.M. Kumawat1, M.K. Yadav2, Phool Singh3 and M.P.Sahu4 Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner (Rajasthan) 334 006 (India) E-mail: [email protected] Professor Agronomy, AICRP on Forage Crops, Centre for Forage Management, Agriculture Research Station, SKRAU, Bikaner-334 006. Note-2. PG student. 3. Research Scholar. 4. Ex-Dean & Director Research, SKRAU, Bikaner.

Abstract

Arid lands are those regions where rainfall is low (less than 350 mm) and different aspects of rainfall like amount, duration, intensity and distributions are uncertain. Moreover, the regions are accompanies with temperature extremes, as low as 0oc in winters to as high as 45oc during summers and cold and hot waves at higher speed make the crop cultivation very difficult.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” These uncertainties are highly unstable and lead to low productivity no income and employment opportunities ultimately resulting in poverty and poor civic amenities and degradation in living standards of the people. But with the advent of irrigation facilities through canals and tube wells, arable farming is gaining importance in arid region of western Rajasthan. To ensure certain degree of stability to agricultural production, soil and crop management practices are to be adopted. Crop management technique and soil fertility management are also required since the soils of arid areas are not only thirsty but hungry also. Keeping these facts in view, the study on effect of zinc, iron and TU application on productivity of oat forage and groundnut crop was planned. The results of the study indicated that zinc and thiourea application schedule showed superiority over control with respect to yield, yield attributes and quality parameters of forage oats. The highest GFY, DMY and grain yield and test weight was recorded with 12.50 kg ZnSO4/ha basal application + 0.05% TU foliar spray which was at par with same dose ZnSO4 as basal application + 0.5% ZnSO4 + 0.05% TU solution spray. However, the maximum protein yield of 2.00 q/ha was noted with 25 kg ZnSO4/ha basal application which was significantly higher by 5.4 and 8.6% over 12.50 kg ZnSO4/ha basal + 0.5% ZnSO4 spray and control treatment, respectively. The highest zinc content in grain and straw was also noted by 12.50 kg ZnSO4 basal + 0.5% TU solution spray application against the minimum values under control treatment. Similarly, foliar spray of 0.05% FeSO4 + 0.05% TU at 45 and 65 DAS was the superior among all foliar applied treatments and statistically at par with 37.5 kg FeSO4/ha applied as soil application with respect to yield, yield attributes, quality and net profit of groundnut cultivation in arid regions of Rajasthan. Thus, zinc + TU application in forage oats production and also iron + TU application in groundnut oilseeds which are the most economical crops of arid areas gave higher profit, employment and nutritive fodder for poor civic and livestock, respectively under western Rajasthan. The aforesaid soil and crop management technique will be beneficial for optimum forage production, which is a key factor for successful livestock production in the region. CP-32

Effect of organic and inorganic sources on yield, quality and soil fertility status of summer greengram under North Gujarat Agro-climatic condition P.K. Bhatt1, A.M. Patel2, K.G. Vyas3, C.H. Raval4, B.L. Yadav5, V.B. Mor6 and Monika Sharma7 Ph.D Scholar & SRF (Agronomy), 2Associate Director of Research, 4Research Associate (Agronomy), S.D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar (Gujarat) 385506 7 M.Sc Student Agronomy, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi (U.P.) Email: [email protected] mob.: 09016025086 Department of Agronomy, C.P. College of Agriculture S.D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar -385506 (Gujarat) 1, 3, 5 & 6

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at the instructional farm, S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar during 2010 on loamy sand soil to investigate the effect of levels of vermicompost and phosphorus with PSB on yield, quality, nutrient content, uptake of summer greengram (Vigna radiate L.) and soil fertility status after harvest of the crop. Among the levels of vermicompost @ 1t ha-1 sowed its superiority, producing highest seed (1105kg ha-1) and stover yield (2379 kg ha-1). The same treatment exhibited significant improvement in recording maximum values for the protein content, nutrients content and uptake of summer greengram. Among the levels of phosphorus @ 40 kg P2O5 ha-1 + PSB standing statistically at par with 40 kg P2O5 ha-1 recorded significantly higher seed (1099 kg ha-1) and stover yield (2301kg ha-1) over PSB only and 20 kg P2O5 with and without PSB. Phosphorus application @ 40 kg ha-1 + PSB performed equally as that of P2O5 40 kg ha-1 without PSB, significantly improved the protein content, nutrients content and uptake as well as soil fertility status after harvest the crop.

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Effect of organic manures and fertilizers on seed quality parameters in wheat 1

V.S. Mor1; Devraj2;D.P.Deswal1; R.S. Antil2 & Vikram Singh3 Department of Seed Science & Technology 2Department of Soil Science 3 Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125004 Email:[email protected]

Abstract

The long-term effect of using various combinations of organic manures and chemical fertilizers was evaluated in respect of seed quality parameters of wheat (WH-711). The wheat seed crop was grown under various treatments T1 N 7 5 + P30 (kg/ha) ; T2 N150 + P60 (kg/ha) ; T3 FYM15 (tons) ; T4 FYM15 + N150 ; T5 FYM15 + N150 + P30 ; T6 P o u l t r y manures5 (tons) ; T7 Poultry manures5 + N150 + P30 ; T8 Pressmud7.5 (tons) ; T9 Pressmud7.5 + N75 + P30 ; T10 Pressmud7.5 + N150 + P30. The seed was harvested from various treatments and the seed quality was evaluated by different seed quality parameters. The results showed that among various treatments, use of the combination of organic manures along with chemical fertilizers produced the seed with better quality as compared to pure organic manure or chemical fertilizers alone. The combinations of organic and chemical fertilizers resulted in higher seed germination, shoot length, root length, seedling length, seedling dry weight, vigour index- I & II, Tetrazolium test, Dehydrogense activity test, field emergence index, seedling establishment etc. The highest values for many seed quality parameter was recorded in T7 (poultry manure 5t+N150kg. +P2O5 30kg per ha.) which was followed by T5 (FYM 15t+N150kg.+P2O5 30kg per ha.). Whereas the lowest seed quality was observed when organic manure was applied alone. CP-34

Effect of Organic Sources of Nutrients on Yield and Quality of Onion (Allium cepa L.) Ramandeep Kaur Brar* and Rakesh Sharma Department of Agriculture, Khalsa College, Amritsar-143001. Email : [email protected]

Abstract

Onion (Allium cepa L.), a bulbous biennial herb of family Alliaceae is one of the commonest and indispensable vegetable cum condiment crops grown for local consumption, export and processing. Therefore onion is popularly referred as ‘Queen of the Kitchen.’ To study the effect of organic sources of nutrients viz FYM, VC and biofertilizers on yield and quality of onion a field experiment was conducted at Khalsa College Amritsar during Rabi 2012. The experiment was laid in Randomized Complete Block Design with 4 replications of blocks and 12 treatment combinations. The application of RDF(i.e. 100kg N, 50kg P2O5 and 50kg K2O along with 25 tonnes FYM)/ha and vermicompost(100% of N by VC) played a significant role in yield and quality parameters of onion. The fresh weight of bulb, dry weight of bulb, dry weight of plant & bulb yield were found maximum under RDF which remained at par with application of vermicompost(100% of N by VC). However, the highest bulb diameter & TSS content was recorded from application of vermicompost(100% of N by VC). Whereas lowest yield and quality parameters were obtained in control treatment. From the experiment it is concluded that NPK along with FYM gives better results than FYM, VC, BF applied alone and their combinations. Among organic manures, VC appears to be superior over other organic manure treatments.

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EFFECT OF PHOSPHORUS AND VARIETIES ON GROWTH PARAMETER AND YIELD OF SOYBEAN Kamalesh Kumar* Santosh kumar** and ** ekta kumari * College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur **IAS,Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, U.P.

Abstract

This experiment was conducted on College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur during the kharif season of 2010.The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with 3 replications. The treatment consisted of four levels of phosphorus (Po- control, P1-30kg P2O5/ha, P2-60kg P2O5/ha, P3-90kg P2O5/ha) and three varieties (V1-Bragg, V2- JS-335 and V3-Local. Application of phosphorus significantly influenced the plant height, number of branches per plant, fresh weight of plant, dry weight of plant, and seed yield. The highest seed yield was recorded with the application of phosphorus at 60 kg P2O5/ha which remained at par with 90 kg P2O5/ha. Residual available nitrogen and phosphorus in soil were increased due to the application of phosphorus. Better growth characters like plant height, fresh weight, and number of branches were obtained in both Local and Bragg varieties. Though comparable seed yield was recorded in Local and Bragg varieties. CP-36

EFFECT OF NITROGEN AND SULPHUR FERTILIZATION ON PROTEIN QUALITY PARAMETERS AND OIL CONTENT OF SOYBEAN [GLYCINE MAX (L.) MERRILL] SEEDS Anju Sharma1, Sucheta Sharma1 and B. S. Gill2 Department of Biochemistry, 2Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004, India email : [email protected] 1

Abstract

Soybean is an important leguminous crop of the world and contains approximately 40% protein and 20% oil. Its high grain protein is necessary for processing and nutrition purposes. But, the overall sulphur amino acid content of soybean proteins is not sufficient to meet the nutritional demands in animals and livestock. Thus, a field experiment was conducted to study the response of sulphur and nitrogen fertilization on protein quality in soybean. Soybean (Cv SL 525) was subjected to fertilizer treatments viz. control (no fertilizer), urea, gypsum and urea + gypsum. Mature seeds were used for the determination of protein quality parameters and oil content. Total soluble proteins, free amino acids, methionine, cysteine and glutathione content were significantly increased whereas trypsin inhibitor activity decreased under treatments of sulphur and nitrogen. Nitrogen and sulphur alone or in combination significantly increased sulphur content and decreased N:S ratio in soybean seeds. Nitrogen supplementation decreased oil content significantly. Sulphur alone or in combination with nitrogen significantly increased the proportion of palmitic and linoleic acids and decreased oleic acid in soybean oil. Application of sulphur and nitrogen either alone or in combination can result in improvement of soybean seed storage protein quality parameters. Keywords: Nitrogen, sulphur, soybean, protein quality

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EFFECT OF NITROGEN AND PHOSPHORUS ON GROWTH AND FLOWERING IN TUBEROSE (POLIANTHES TUBEROSA L.) CV. DOUBLE. Ashutosh Sharma, Dr. S. V. S. Chaudhary, Nomita Laishram, Y.C.Gupta, B.S.SDilta Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh - 173 230.

Abstract

An investigation was carried out to develop “Effect of nitrogen and phosphorus on growth and flowering in tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) cv. Double.” The experiment was conducted at experimental farm of the Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (H.P) during 2011. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with three replication and having sixteen treatments N0P0- N3P3. Among the tested treatments, T11 (200 kg N/ha + 150 kg P/ha) recorded the maximum per cent sprouting of bulbs (100%), plant height (48.38 cm), number of leaves per plant (47.59), spike length (80.88 cm), number of florets per spike (30.48), rachis length (29.95 cm), fresh weight of spike (70.89 g), fresh weight of 100 florets (179.71 g), floret diameter (3.51 cm), number of flowering stem per plant (1.44), number of bulbs produced per plant (16.68), weight of bulbs/plant (276.03 g), early opening of basal florets (119.10 days), early opening of sprouting of bulbs (), available nitrogen (462.71 kg/ha), available phosphorus (66.39 kg/ha) and available potassium (192.52 kg/ha). However, maximum vase life (10.05 days) was recorded in N0P0 (control) which was closely followed by N0P1, N0P2. CP-38

Effect of inorganic fertilizers and organic sources of nutrients on NPK uptake, yield and economics of potato (Solonum tubersum L.) Rakesh Kumar and N.D. Singh P.G. Department of Agriculture, Khalsa College, Amritsar

Abstract

An experiment was conducted during 2011-12 and 2012-13 in the Division of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Khasla College, Amritsar to study the effect of inorganic fertilizers and various organic manures on productivity, nutrient uptake and profitability of processing type autumn potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). The large sized (>40g) potato tubers and total tuber yield was statistically at par with inorganic fertilizers and 100 per cent nitrogen through vermicompost. With inorganic fertilizers application the large sized potato tubers and total potato tuber yield was observed 5.82 per cent and 6.86 per cent more than application of 100 per N through vermicompost, but total income, net income and benefit cost ratio was found higher with 100% nitrogen through vermicompost followed by 100% N through DRS. These organic source of nutrients were statistically comparable with inorganic source of nutrients. Sole application of organic source of nutrients were equally efficient to inorganic fertilizers in improving the nutrients uptake, tuber yield and benefit: cost ratio (B:C). Key words: Autumn potato, farm yard manure, poultry manure, vermicompost, chopped rice straw, decomposed rice straw, nutrient uptake, tuber yield, economics.

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Effect of higher dose of inorganic fertilizer on the soil macro-faunal population in maize ecosystem Ngangom Umadevi Kumar, N.G. and Basavaraj,P.K*. Department of Agricultural Entomology * Department of Soil Science University of Agricultural Sciences,GKVK,Bangalore-56065 Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Now a day’s inorganic fertilizers are used to get target yield of agricultural crops to meet the demands of food grain production for an ever increasing population in a limited agricultural land. Hybrid maize also responds well to the nutrients. With this background an experiment was carried out to know the effect of higher NPK nutrient supplied through inorganic fertilizer alone (251.17:113.31:114.35 and 173.32:93.66:97.96 kg NPK/ha, with the target yield of 110 and 90 q/ha, respectively) and 50% through the organic manure on the activity of the soil macro-fauna. These were compared with the package of practices for maize cultivation and untreated control. Soil macro-fauna were collected in each treatment by fixing the pitfall trap at before application of treatments (BAT) and 10 days interval up to 30 days after germination (DAG) and 15 days interval from 30 DAG up to 300 DAG. The results showed that higher macro-fauna (65.11/trap) were collected in higher fertilizer alone treated plot and no significance differences were noticed among the treatments during cropping season. Higher macro-faunal activity was observed on 45 DAG (53.95/trap). However, fertilizer applied with FYM treatments supported higher macro-faunal activity during non- cropping season. Ants were relatively more abundant in all the treatments followed by other macro-fauna and beetles. Ant belongs to six genera and six species were collected in the experimental plot. Pheidole sp dominated in all the treatments followed by Camponotus compresus, Solenopsis germinata and Leptogenus chinensis,Manomorium indicum and Pachycondyla sp. were observed in two and one treatments, respectively. CP-40

EFFECT OF FYM, Fe AND Zn ON GROWTH, YIELD ATTRIBUTES AND YIELD OF FODDER SORGHUM V. Bhunwal1, V.R. Patel2, R. Anwala3 1 MSc.(Ag)Department of Agricultural Chemistry & Soil Science , Chimanbhai Patel College of Agriculture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar-385506 2Professor, Department of Agricultural Chemistry & Soil Science, Chimanbhai Patel College of Agriculture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar-385506 3 MSc.(Ag.) Department of Soil Science and Agriculture Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India Email : [email protected] Add. college of Ag. Bikaner

Abstract

An experiment was conducted at Sorghum Research Station, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Deesa on “Nutrient management in summer fodder sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. moench)” during summer, 2012. Sorghum variety CSV 21F was used as test crop. The soil of experimental plot was loamy sand in texture, low in organic C, available N, available Fe and P and medium in Zn and rich in K. The results of the experiment indicated that maximum value of growth parameters viz., plant height, leaf area, leaf and stalk weight and chlorophyll content were conspicuously increased with the application of 1t FYM/ha along with RDF + 3kg Zn/ha (T11) and was superior over rest of the treatments. However, the lowest growth and yield attributes were recorded with the treatments T1 (RDF). Different treatments of FYM, Zn and Fe were tried in this experiment exerted their significant effect on stover yield of sorghum crop. Key word: Sorghum bicolour, FYM , RDF.

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EFFECT OF VARYING LEVELS OF IRRIGATION AND NITROGEN TO MULTI-CUT SUMMER FORAGE PEARL MILLET UNDER SEMI-ARID CONDITION C.H. Raval1, A.M. Patel2, P.K. Bhatt3, K.G. Vyas4, V.B. Mor5, B.L. Yadav6 and Monika Sharma7 Research Associate (Agronomy), 2Associate Director of Research, 3,4,5&6 Ph.D Scholar & SRF (Agronomy), S.D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar (Gujarat) 385 506 7M.Sc. (Agronomy) Student, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi (U.P.) Email: [email protected] 1

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during summer seasons of 2011and 2012 on sandy loam soil at S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar to study the response of multi-cut summer forage pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) to varying levels of irrigation and nitrogen under semi-arid condition of North Gujarat. Twelve treatment combinations comprised four levels of Irrigation scheduling (0.6, 0.8, 1.0 and 1.2 IW: CPE) and three levels of Nitrogen (100, 150 and 200 kg N ha-1). The pooled results showed that irrigation levels at 1.2 IW: CPE ratio showed significant influence on growth attributes viz., plant height, number of tillers and leaf: stem ratio. The irrigation at 1.2 IW: CPE ratio resulted significantly higher green fodder (1192.34 q ha-1) and dry matter yield (288.37q ha-1) over other levels of irrigation. However, maximum water use efficiency (86.07 kg ha-1) was recorded with irrigation at 0.8 IW: CPE ratio. The net realization (Rs. 93963 ha-1) and B: C ratio (3.71) was recorded highest with Irrigation at 1.2 IW: CPE ratio. The N levels had significant effects on all the growth parameters like the plant height, number of tillers and leaf: stem ratio. Application of 200 kg N ha-1 gave significantly higher green forage yield (1145.19 q ha-1), dry matter yield (249.74 q ha-1), WUE (87.66 kg ha-1), net realization (Rs. 83015 ha-1) and B: C ratio (3.86) over 150 and 100 kg N ha-1. Consequently for higher productivity and profitability of multi-cut summer forage pearl millet, it should be grown with irrigation given at 1.2 IW: CPE ratio and fertilized with 200 kg N ha-1. CP-42

Impact of fortified vermicompost and sulphur on yield of mustard in western arid zone of India Suman Parihar and Rakesh Choudhary Department of Soil and Science and Agricultural Chemistry College of Agriculture, SKRAU, Bikaner Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Agronomy, CCS HAU, Hisar-125004 E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

This investigation was carried out during rabi season (2010-11) at the Agronomy Farm, College of agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner district of Rajasthan. Four levels of each of fortified vermicompost (0, 2, 4 and 6 t/ha) and sulphur (0, 20, 40 and 60 kg/ha) fertilizers were applied in RBD with three replications. The results of our experimental study revealed that successive increase in levels of fortified vermicompost from 0-6 t/ha enhanced significantly the seed and stover yield upto 6 t/ha. The increase in seed (32.8, 60.0 and 79.7%) and stover (21.3, 36.3 and 44.8%) yields were reported with application of 2, 4 and 6 t/ha, respectively, over their control. our results further reported that with successive increase in sulphur levels the seed and stover yield. The marked increase in seed (24.9 %) and stover (14.5%) yields over the control. significantly the highest seed (1609.5 kg/ha) and stover (4350.58 kg/ha) yield were recorded with 60 kg S/ha. Our results, further concluded that in coarse textured loamy sand soil of Rajasthan which is low in organic matter and deficient in sulphur, the application of 6 t/ha alongwith 40 kg S/ha was found to be optimum for obtaining higher yield in mustard.

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STUDIES ON INTEGRATED NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT IN SOYBEAN (GLYCINE MAX L ). D. Sridevi*, Syed Ahmad Hussain, M. Yakadri, G. Bhupal Raj and 1A.Vijaya Gopal Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, ANGRAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500030. 1 Department of Agricultural Microbiology and Bioenergy, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad- 500030.

Abstract

A field experiment entitled “ Studies on integrated nutrient management in Soybean (Glycine max) was carried out under Southern Telangana Zone agro climatic conditions in kharif season, the experiment was conducted in sandy clay loam soils in RBD with twelve treatments replicated thrice the treatments include application of 100%, 50% and 25% inorganic forms and as substituted with proportionate organic nitrogen forms ( Vermicompost, FYM ) and supplemented with Rhizobium and micronutrient application resulted in increase in growth yield attributes and yield of soybean crop. However substitution of inorganic form of RDN up to 50% with organic forms either with FYM or vermicompost resulted in increase in growth, yield attributes and yield whereas the substitution of inorganic form with that of organics of RDN beyond 50% lead to non significance performance. Application of Rhizobium either alone or in combination with micronutrients mixture over and above organic and inorganic sources of RDN at various levels (25%, 50% and 75% RDN) increased the performance of the crop. However highest grain yield (2238 kg ha-1 ), harvest index (40.7), highest net returns ( 58520 Rs/ha) and benefit cost ratio (2.73) was realized when 25% RDN is substituted with FYM besides supplementing with Rhizobium and micronutrients. Key words: Soybean, Recommended dose of Nitrogen, Rhizobium, grain yield, benefit cost ratio. CP-44

STUDIES ON NUTRIENT RESPONSE IN RICE-WHEAT CROPPING SYSTEM IN AMRITSAR Rajni* and S S Walia Department of Agronomy, Punjab Agricultural University Ludhiana – 141004 *Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Twenty four experiments during kharif and rabi season were conducted at farmers’ field in Amritsar during 2011-12 to study the response of N, P and K on rice-wheat system. After soil analysis of plots, seven treatments were kept. T1: control, T2: N, T3: N+P, T4: N+K, T5: N+P+K, T6: N+P+K+Micro-nutrient and T7: Farmer’s Practice. In T6 treatment, zinc was applied during kharif season and mangenese during rabi. Maximum rice yield (80.8 q/ha) was recorded, where balanced application of N, P and K was applied alongwith zinc (T6) and it was significantly higher than T5. Similarly, in wheat, maximum yield (53.0 q/ha) was observed under T6 but it was marginally higher over T5. This clearly indicated that the yield-increase sequence was N followed by K and P application. The nutrient response in rice for N, NP, NK and NPK was 13.5, 21.5, 17.8 and 25.2, respectively while the corresponding values for wheat were 11.4, 16.1, 13.5 and 19.0, respectively. The nutrient response in rice for P over N and over NK was 32.0 and 29.7, respectively. The corresponding values for wheat were 9.5 and 11.0, respectively whereas; micronutrient response in rice (Zn) and wheat (Mn) was 12.4 and 12.5, respectively. So, it is very clear that not only N and P but application of K was also very important in getting higher net returns from both rice and wheat crops.

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NUTRIENT FLOW IN AGROECOSYSTEMS OF COLD DESERTS OF HIMACHAL PRADESH Poonam, R. Bawa, H.P. Sankhyan and S. S. Sharma Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan – 173 230 (Himachal Pradesh) Email : *[email protected]

Abstract

A field investigation was carried out in the District Lahaul & Spiti cold deserts of Himachal Pradesh, India to study nutrient flow through different compartments of agroecosystem. We find that there is great difference in nutrient contents in the soil pool, supply, take up and their removal by the human beings for grasses, traditional crop: barley; and the cash crops viz., peas and potatoes. The total biomass production (above- and below-ground) was worked out for grasses barley, peas and potato and their harvest and split up of biomass in different categories. Total biomass of grasses in the ecosystem was 0.82 q/ha. Of this aboveground biomass was 0.76 q/ha (92%), from which 70% is grazed by the animals and some amount is returned back to the system in the form of FYM and through penning. In case of barley crop, total biomass produced was 49.80 q/ha (16.80 q/ha grains and straw 29.30 q/ha of above-ground and 3.63 q/ha of below-ground). Of this total biomass, 32.93 % of the biomass returned back through decomposition of the roots and through FYM (grazing and stall feeding), and 16.80 % was extracted through grains, of which, maximum also returned back as night soil application in the fields. Now in case of cash crops and taking the case of potato crop, it was observed that a total biomass produce was 49.80 q/ha (on dry weight basis). Here in this system hardly any part was left in the field after the final harvest, tubers are harvested, and the rest of above-ground parts were stored and fed to the husbandry during the winters as stall feed. So there was higher percentage of biomass extraction from the fields % as compared to the barley. In case of peas crop, after the harvest, only 0.31q/ha was returned back to the fields of total 19.78q/ha, through root decomposition and FYM, and the rest was extracted out through pods, which are sold in the open market and this biomass never returns back to the fields. Hence we find major difference in the traditional crops (barley) and the cash crops (potatoes and peas), that more of biomass returns back to the system through decomposition of the roots or through FYM and human night soil, thus major part of the energy, biomass and nutrients recycle with in the system in case of traditional cropping as compared to cash cropping system. Keywords: Nutrient flow, Agroecosystem, traditional cropping, cash cropping, biomass. CP-46

Conjunctive use of Mesorhizobium sp. cicer, Pseudomonas spp. and Piriformospora indica for Sustainable Chickpea Production 1

Pallavi Mansotra1*, Poonam Sharma2 and Sunita Sharma2 Department of Microbiology, 2Dept of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana 141 004, India *E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

The present investigation was undertaken under field condition to study interactions among Piriformospora indica with potential plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and Mesorhizobium sp. cicer to examine the synergistic effect of consortium of Mesorhizobium sp. cicer, Pseudomonas spp. and P.indica for improving growth, symbiotic efficiency, nutrient acquisition and yield in two chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) varieties viz desi PBG1 and kabuli BG1053. Different PGPR spp. used were isolates of Pseudomonas argentinensis (LPGPR1), Pseudomonas sp. (LPGPR2) along with national check Pseudomons diminuta (LK884). Prior to the field experiment, compatibility of Mesorhizobium sp. cicer (LGR33, MR), Piriformospora indica (PI) and different Pseudomonas spp. were studied for seed germination. In-vitro, consortium of MR+PI+LPGPR1 was the best compatible followed by MR+PI+LK884 and MR+PI+LPGPR2. Significant improvement in the symbiotic parameters was observed with multiple inoculation of MR+PI+LPGPR1 and MR+PI+LK884 treatments.

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Significant increase in grain yield was recorded with MR+PI+LPGPR1 (2450 and 2486 kg ha-1) over the MR alone treatment (2254 and 2308 kg ha-1 in desi PBG1 and kabuli BG1053 of chickpea varieties, respectively). It seems from foregoing study that tripartite combination can be explored as potent biofertilizer for improved productivity in chickpea. However, more informed and detailed explanation of the mechanisms that are involved in plant growth promotion and productivity should be carried out before bioaugmentation of mixed microbial inoculants as biofertilizer for sustainable crop production. Keywords: Chickpea, Synergism, Mesorhizobium sp. cicer, Pseudomonas spp. and Piriformospora indica CP-47

SHORT- TERM EFFECT OF TILLAGE, RESIDUE AND BIO-FERTILIZER ON LABILE SOIL ORGANIC CARBON POOLS UNDER RICE-WHEAT CROPPING SYSTEM. A.K.Sinha*, P.Mukhopadhyay, S.Biswas, P.M.Bhattacharya, P.Mukherjee, and A. Ghosh. Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Coochbehar, West Bengal Email : *[email protected]

Abstract

The present work evaluated the short – term effects of tillage, crop residue and bio-fertilizer management practices on changes in labile pools of organic carbon in post- wheat soils in a long- term field experiment with rice-wheat cropping system carried out since 2009 at the research farm of the University at Pundibari, Coochbehar in the state of West Bengal, India. Field experiment consist altogether eight (8) treatments such as two methods of tillage (Zero tilled –ZT and conventionally tilled – CT) along with two options for each of crop residue (residue added and removed) and Bio-fertilizer (with and without inoculation) laid out in a factorial RBD and replicated thrice. Experiment site (260 19’ N, 890 23’E; 43m above msl) belonged under sub-tropical per humid agro-ecological sub-zone featured with annual high rainfall (250 µm, 53-250 µm and 250 µm SOM fraction, followed by 53-250 µm fraction (305-1955 mg C kg-1) and the lowest from 250 µm fraction, 26-149 for 53-250 µm fraction, 9-105 for 250 µm fraction, 60 percent of C in 53-250 µm fraction, 10 percent of C 250 µm fraction, 1.6-1.8 for 53-250 µm fraction and 1.4-1.6 for 250 μm fraction) constituted only about 4-5 percent of the bulk soil organic matter, the results suggest that the effect of global warming on soil organic C content will probably be small.

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THE EFFECT OF GROWTH REGULATORS ON VEGETATIVE PROPAGATION OF DRACAENA Rajvir Kaur and HP S Garwal Department of Agriculture, Govt. Brijindra College, Faridkot

Abstract

In Dracaena experiments were conducted for (1) Multiple shoot production in Dracaena fragrans var. Lendeni, D. marginata ‘Tricolor’ and D. deremensis ‘Janet Craig’; and (2) for rooting of nodal cuttings in D. sanderiana virescens and D. deremensis ‘Janet Craig’ by using growth regulator treatments. Shingle spray of BA 250 ppm showed maximum mean emergence of shoot buds (15.00) and D. marginata ‘Tricolor’ showed the best response (15.37) for shoot bud emergance amongst in three Dracaena varieties. Double spray of BA 250 ppm esulted in highest mean length of shoot buds (8.42) and best response (6.74) was observed in D deremensis ‘Janet Craig’. Single spray of BA 250 ppm showed maximum mean increase in plant height (6.24 cm) 12 weeks after the spray. Treatment of nodal cuttings with IBA and NAA have been found useful for rooting of nodal cutting. IBA 250 ppm treatment took minimum mean number of days (51.33) for initiation of new shoots and showed maximum mean number of roots (3.580. NAA 250 ppm treatment showed maximum mean per cent appearance of shoots (53.65), shoot length (3.18), number of leaves (8.12), length of roots (7.80), per cent estalibhsment of plants (51.61) and minimum mean mortality percentage (38.33) averaged over duration of growth regulator treatments and varieties. Six hour duration treatment of nodal cuttings showed maximum mean percent appearance of shoots (42.17), shoot length (2.92 cm), number of leaves (5.58), number of roots (2.67), length of roots (6.60cm), percent establishment of plants (39.89) and minimum mean mortality percentage (50.22) averaged over growth regulator treatments and varieties. D. sanderiana virescens took minimum mean number of days (51.33) for initiation of new shoots. D. deremensis ‘Janet Craig’ showed maximum mean per cent appearance of shoot (38.67), number of leaves (4.84), number of roots (2.58), per cent establishment of plants (35.10) and minimum mean mortality percentage (50.20) averaged over growth regulator treatments and duration of growth regulator treatments. CP-94

TO STUDY THE SEED GERMINATION AND GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF DIFFERENT CULTIVARS OF LITCHI (LITCHI CHINENSIS). Sukhjit Kaur* Punjab Agricultural University,Regional Research Station Gurdaspur(Punjab),India-143521 E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

The present study was conducted on the seed germination and the growth performance of different cultivars of litchi was conducted at PAU, Regional Research Station, Gurdaspur during the years 2011-12.The freshly extacted seeds from the different cultivars of litchi viz. Dehradun, Calcuttia and Seedless late were sown under open field conditions by following normal cultural practices. It was observed that the maximum seed germination with greater plant vigour were observed in cultivar Calcuttia.

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Tolerance of cotton varieties to saline irrigation through drip AND FLOOD SYSTEM B.L. Kumawat, A.K. Singh, N.S. Yadava and I.J. Gulati Agricultural Research Station, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner- 334006 India Email: [email protected]

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2010 to evaluate the effect of saline irrigation, salinization pattern and critical level of ECiw on yield of cotton in sandy soil of western Rajasthan. The treatments consisted of two methods of irrigation (Drip and Flood), three levels of ECiw (BAW i.e. best available water from canal having ECiw 0.25, 3 and 6 dSm-1 and four cotton varieties ( F-846, RST-9, RG-8 and Bt Cotton) were laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replication. Results indicated that highest plant height, number of bolls per plant, boll size and seed cotton yield was obtained under drip irrigation having ECiw upto 3 dSm-1 with a significant decrease in yield attributes and yield at ECiw 6 dSm-1 . Drip method of irrigation was found superior in producing 16 per cent higher yield over flood irrigation. Among different varieties Bt cotton produced maximum yield both under drip and flood irrigation methods. Interaction effect between methods of irrigation and saline irrigation on seed cotton yield was found significant. The minimum seed cotton yield was obtained at ECiw 6 dSm-1 in flood method of irrigation. Seed cotton yield decrease significantly at ECiw 6 dSm-1 in both the methods of irrigation. Interactive effect between methods of irrigation and different varieties showed that Bt cotton produced significantly higher yield in both the methods of irrigation. Cotton variety RST-9 gave significantly higher yield than RG-8 in drip method of irrigation while F-846 produced minimum seed cotton yield in flood method of irrigation. The resulting ECe of soil at harvest of cotton was affected by levels of saline irrigation in 0-45 cm depth of soil profile at 0, 15 and 30 cm lateral distances from the emitters under drip system. The maximum soil salinity was observed at 30 cm distance from emitters with ECiw 6 dSm-1 whereas the minimum just below the emitters under BAW i.e. canal water (0.25 dSm-1). Zone of minimum salt concentration existed below the emitter. The trend clearly indicates that the salt concentration in soil profile increased with an increase in lateral as well as vertical distances from the emitters. It can be inferred that the salts are leached away from the active root zone of the plant providing better growth conditions for development. CP-96

Impact of antioxidAnts to mitigate adverse effects of saline irrigation through sprinkler for maximizing wheat yield S.M. Kumawat, B.L. Kumawat and A.K. Singh Agricultural Research Station, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner- 334006 India Email: [email protected]

Abstract

the primary effect of excess salinity is to render water less available to plants through adverse osmotic effects on the soil solution. In addition, excessive salt concentration and absorption of individual ions may prove toxic effects to plants and/or may refund absorption of other essential plant nutrients. Besides, plants exhibit a variety of biochemical and physiological responses to acclimatize saline environment. Of these salts induced changes, accumulation of compatible solutes, certain free radical scavenging compounds and enzymes as well as specific proteins that control ion and water homeostasis. Keeping these facts a field experiment was conducted during rabi 2010-11 to evaluate the effect of saline irrigation with antioxidants to mitigate adverse effects of saline water and critical level of ECiw under sprinkler irrigation on yield of wheat in sandy soil of western Rajasthan. The treatments consisted of four levels of ECiw (BAW i.e. best available water from canal having ECiw 0.25, 4, 8 and 12 dSm-1 and five sprays of antioxidants (Control, KNO3 at 5000 ppm, Thio

420

International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” Urea at 500 ppm, Kinetin at 10 ppm and Ethaphon at 50 ppm concentration at 30 and 45 DAS) were laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. Results indicated that increasing levels of irrigation water salinity up to 8 dSm -1 could not influenced the grain yield of wheat significantly. Application of ECiw 12 dSm -1 resulted lowest grain yield significantly over BAW, 4 and 8 dSm -1, respectively. Straw yield of wheat was not affected significantly with levels of irrigation water salinity. Application of different antioxidant sprays increased the grain yield of wheat significantly over control. Maximum grain yield of wheat was obtained under application of KNO3 spray at 5000 ppm which was being at par with ethaphon spray at 50 ppm and significantly higher over control, thio urea spray at 500 ppm and kinetin spray at 10 ppm, respectively. Straw yield was not affected significantly due to application of different antioxidants. Application of irrigation water salinity and antioxidants could not influence significantly harvest index as well as test weight of wheat. It may be concluded that wheat yield in sandy soil can be substantially maximized by using ECiw 8 dSm-1 and application of KNO3 spray at 5000 ppm. CP-97

USES OF ORNAMENTALS IN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE B. S. Dilta*, Jagreeti Gupta, B. P. Sharma and Narender Negi Department of Floriculture & Landscaping, Dr Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan-173230 Email: *[email protected]

Abstract

Landscaping is the segment of ornamental horticulture that focuses on beautification of outdoor terrain and to some extent, interior setting. Landscaping involves: softcape and hardscape. Softscape include: planting of trees, shrubs, climbers, bulbous plants, pot plants, grasses, cacti and succulents, whereas hardscape include: patio, benches, steps, water feature, garden path and garden drive. Landscape architecture is the blend of science and art relating to the systematic planning of land areas, the design of outdoor places and spaces, the conservation of our natural resources and the creation of more useful, safe and pleasing living environment. Major design areas are: public area, outdoor living area, service area and private area. To make a successful design we have to follow certain principles like: unity, rhythm, balance, emphasis, scale, accent and harmony and elements like: line, form, texture, colour, light and space. Trees can be used for landscape purposes like: specimen plant, shade tree, flowering tree, ornamental fruit tree, avenue tree, screening, wind break and checking air pollution. Shrubs can also be used for landscape purposes like: specimen plant, shrubbery border, avenue planting, hedge, edge, rockeries, pots, moonlit gardening and ornamental fruits. Climbers can be used for screening walls, ground covers, pergolas, avenue planting and to cover patio. Annuals can be used for specimen plant, fragrant flowers, hanging baskets, screening, bedding, edging, rockery, herbaceous border, for shady areas and as dry flowers. Caladium 75-14, a spotted, fancy-leaved cultivar is better suited for sunny landscapes. CP-98

ASSESSING IRRIGATION SYSTEM PERFORMANCE IN INDIRA GANDHI NAHAR PARIYOJANA STAGE-I Amit Kumawat, Ramesh Kumar, R S Yadav1, V S Rathore and N D Yadav CAZRI, Regional Research Station, Bikaner, Rajasthan-334001, 1 Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner Email : [email protected],

Abstract

An experiment entitled “Assessing irrigation system performance in Indira Gandhi Nahar Pariyojana Stage-I” was carried out at village Menawali, (74o 20’34”E to 074o 20’60” E longitude and 28o 37’62” N to 29o 21’39” N latitude), Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, India during kharif and rabi season of 2012-13 to assess productivity, economics, N–uptake, water use of different crops and calibrate the CropSyst model. An area of 187 ha comprising 25 farmers irrigated by common irrigation channels were selected to collect the information. The information required for calibrating the CropSyst model i.e. soil,

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” crop management, growth, phonological, yields, water balance, N – uptake and water use efficiency of each crops were collected from 15 farmers. Bt – cotton and clusterbean of kharif and wheat and Indian mustard in rabi were prominent crops; cotton – wheat, cotton – mustard, clusterbean –wheat and clusterbean – mustard were major cropping sequences of the study region. In kharif season, Bt-cotton gave higher economic yields than clusterbean and amongst rabi season crops, economic yields of wheat and mustard were 4255, 1778 kg /ha, respectively. The economic yield of cropping sequences varied from 3741–6514 kg/ha, and were higher for cotton wheat (6218 kg/ha), intermediate for clusterbean – wheat (5785 kg /ha) and lower for cotton–mustard (3741 kg/ha) and clusterbean–mustard (3308 kg/ha). The cotton-wheat (1181.2 mm) sequence had highest water use. Clusterbean-wheat cropping system recorded highest water productivity (16.5 kg/ha mm) followed by clusterbean-mustard (14.9 kg/ha mm). The clusterbean- mustard ( 456/ha mm) cropping sequence was most profitable and fetched highest net return followed by clusterbean-wheat ( 383/ha mm). The simulated GAI, economic yield, above ground biomass and N-uptake by calibrated CropSyst model were closer to the observed values of cotton and clusterbean during kharif season and in wheat, mustard, barley and chickpea during rabi season. The enhanced version of 4.15.24 of CropSyst crop model can be applied to predict the LAI, yield and water balance of cotton, clusterbean in kharif and wheat, mustard, barley and chickpea in the western plain zone of Rajasthan, India. CP-99

CAUSE, PATTERN AND CONSEQUENCE OF UNDERSTOREY HERBACEOUS VEGETATION AT A FOOTHILL FOREST IN INDIAN EASTERN HIMALAYA Gopal Shukla, 2Navin Pradhan and 1Sumit Chakravarty

1

Department of Forestry, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari-736165 (Cooch Behar) West Bengal, India 2 Department of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221005, Uttar Pradesh, India Email : [email protected])

1

Abstract

Herbaceous flora is dynamic layer in a forest stratum that protects the soil and water regimes and improves productivity and soil fertility. Thus a study was conducted at Chilapatta Reserve Forest, West Bengal India to document the status of herb diversity, biomass and carbon accumulation. Stratified random nested quadrate sampling was adopted for analyzing the qualitative and quantitative characters. Forty nine herb species were recorded, of which seven are yet to be identified. Identified species were of 21 families and 36 genera. The herb diversity index, concentration of dominance, Shannon and Wiener index and evenness index estimated was 0.62, 0.028, 4.46 and 2.27, respectively. Highest and lowest frequency recorded were 49.12 and 1.75 while relative frequency varied from 0.09 to 1.87. Herb density ranged from 2 to 11193 individuals ha-1 and relative density ranged from 0.05 to 1.76 %. Most of the species were widely distributed and its abundance ranged from 0.80 to 12.76 while relative abundance ranged from 0.16 to 1.73 %. IVI values ranged from 0.47 to 5.27. The above ground portion of herbs accumulated the major portion of biomass and carbon.

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Comparative performance of Horse gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum L.) genotypes under organic and chemical input conditions Neelam Bhardwaj, Tanu Saroch and J.P. Saini Department of Organic Agriculture, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya email : [email protected]

Abstract

Organic farming is being recognised as a growing economic activity, and one that meets many of society’s current demands on agriculture. However, as this method of farming is expanding, plant breeding is becoming a major bottleneck. The different requirements for varietal characteristics clearly highlight the importance of breeding and selecting varieties suitable for organic farming. In several circumstances varieties that perform well in organic systems have different yield ranking than those that do well under conventional management. In the developing countries like India, where organic movement is at the initial stage of development, varieties that are specifically bred for organic and low-input systems are almost nil whereas in developed countries, it is estimated that more than 95% of organic agriculture is based on crop varieties that were bred for the conventional high-input sector with selection in conventional breeding programmes. It is found that such varieties lack important traits required under organic and low-input production condition. This is primarily due to selection in conventional breeding programmes being carried out in the background of high inorganic fertilizer and crop protection inputs. Hence, in the present study an effort has been made to compare performance of different genotypes of horsegram for yield and related traits under organic and high input non-organic conditions and to find out suitable organic input responsive genotype for organic agriculture The material for this study comprised seven genotypes of horesegram raised in Randomized Complete Block design under two environments i.e. organic input conditions and non-organic input conditions in the Department of Organic Agriculture, CSKHPKV, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. Each genotype was raised in a four rowed plot of 3.0 m length with 30 cm spacing between rows. For the sowing of material under organic input conditions vermicompost was applied @5t/ha in a single dose at the time of sowing. For non-organic sowing N: P @15:45 Kg/ha at the time of sowing was used. Mean values for all the traits under study were low under non- organic sowing in comparison to the organic sowing. Among seven genotypes evaluated, VLG-1 exhibited highest yield in both the years followed by Himganga and HPKO-1 when sown under organic input conditions. On the other hand under non-organic input conditions, HPK-4 was the significantly highest yielder among all the genotypes in both the years followed by DHG-3 and DHG-2. Based upon the two years data it was found that ranking of varieties for most of the traits under study was different for organic in comparison to non-organic organic input conditions indicating towards a separate breeding programme for developing organic input responsive varieties.

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Improving the Productivity and Grain Biofortification of Rice and Wheat by Zinc and Boron Application through Seed Invigoration Techniques Abdul Rehman 1, * and Muhammad Farooq1, 2, 3 Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad-38040, Pakistan 2 The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia 3 College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia. E-mail: [email protected] 1

Abstract

Micronutrient deficiency is major health issue in the developing world. Pakistani soils are highly deficient in zinc (Zn) and boron (B) and these are the major micronutrient disorder in wheat and rice resulting in severe losses in yield and nutritional quality. Moreover, there is need to screen wheat and rice genotypes for higher uptake of Zn and B and their portioning in grains which will help in reducing malnutrition. Due to uneven distribution, repeated spraying and amount of nutrient required soil and foliar application of nutrients is difficult to practice by resource poor farmers. Micronutrient delivery through seed treatment is an attractive alternative as very little amount is needed in seed treatment and also the nutrients are available in the vicinity of emerging seedlings. However, there is need to optimize concentration of these nutrients through seed priming and seed coating as very narrow margin between the deficiency and toxicity of these nutrients exist. To optimize Zn and B application through seed treatment and screening of wheat and rice genotypes for Zn and B uptake and their grain partitioning a series of experiments were conducted. Micronutrient application (Zn, B) through seed treatment i.e. seed priming and seed coating improved seedling establishment, crop yield, and helped in improving Zn and B contents in grains of rice and wheat. There was a great variation among Zn and B portioning in the grains of rice and wheat genotypes. Wheat and rice cultivars better able for Zn and B acquisition and their partitioning in grains may be used for future breeding programs. Zinc and B application through seed treatment is cost effective and efficient method for correcting Zn and B deficiency and fortification of these nutrients in the grains. CP-102

Soil Health, Resource Use Efficiency and System Productivity in Conventional and Conservation Rice-Wheat Cropping Systems Ahmad Nawaz1, * and Muhammad Farooq1, 2, 3 Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad-38040, Pakistan 2 The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia 3 College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia. E-mail: [email protected] 1

Abstract

Looming water, labor, energy and environmental issues are threating the productivity of conventional rice wheat production systems. Conservation rice-wheat systems offer a pragmatic option to address all these issues. A series of experiments was conducted to compare the conventional and conservation rice-wheat cropping system for soil health, resource use efficiency and system productivity. The first experiment was conducted to evaluate the role of seed priming in improving the stand establishment and productivity of wheat in conservation and conventional rice based cropping systems. Seed priming not only improved the stand establishment but also the productivity of wheat in conventional and conservation wheat production systems. Wheat yields were higher after direct rice in primed seeds than transplanted rice. In second experiment, brown manuring and residue management were evaluated in conventional and conservation rice-wheat

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” cropping system. Soil health was better after conservation systems as indicated by low values of soil bulk density than the conventional rice systems. Yields of rice in conservation and conventional rice systems were same but resource use efficiency was higher in conservation rice systems. Brown manuring with sesbania not only helped to control weeds in direct seeded rice but it also improved post rice wheat yield, which was similar to the wheat yield when it was sown after transplanted rice through conventional tilled method. System productivity was higher in direct seeded rice + Sesbania manuring followed by zero tillage wheat. In third experiment, the direct seeded rice and transplanted rice were evaluated at farmer’s fields in two location viz. Nankana Sahib and Sheikhupura for resource use efficiency and system productivity. The yield of direct seeded rice and transplanted rice were the same at both sites but resource use efficiency was better in direct seeded rice. Thus resource conservation promotion technologies must be promoted in rice-wheat belt to save water, labor and fuel resources. CP-103

EFFECT OF DIFFERENT ESTABLISHMENT METHODS AND NITROGEN LEVELS ON ORGANIC CARBON AVAILBILTY IN SOIL 1

Jagjot Singh Gill3 and Sohan Singh Walia4 Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Pulses Section, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004, India E-mail [email protected]. 2 Department of Agronomy, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004, India E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

Soil organic carbon is important for the function of ecosystems and agro-ecosystems having a major influence on the physical structure of the soil, the soil’s ability to store water (water holding capacity), and the soil’s ability to form complexes with metal ions and supply nutrients. To assess the effect of different establishment methods and nitrogen levels on organic cabon built up in soil, a field experiment was conducted at Student’s Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana during kharif season 2010 and 2011 with 6 establishment methods in horizontal plots viz; direct seeded aromatic rice, direct seeded aromatic rice with brown manuring, machine transplanting in zero-tillage (ZT) with brown manuring, machine transplanting in zero-tillage (ZT) without brown manuring, machine transplanting after puddling and conventional practice in horizontal plots and 4 nitrogen levels viz; control, 75% of recommended dose of nitrogen, 100% of recommended dose of nitrogen and 125% of recommended dose of nitrogen in vertical plots in strip plot design. The soil was sandy loam with normal soil reaction (pH 8.10 and 8.00) and electrical conductivity (0.36 and 0.32 dSm-1), low in organic carbon (0.28 and 0.26 %) and available N (255.02 and 238.20 kg ha-1), medium in available P (19.10 and 17.20 kg ha-1) and K (155.00 and 140.00 kg ha-1). Results indicated that maximum organic carbon build up in soil after harvesting of aromatic rice was obtained with treatments in which Sesbania grown as brown manuring crop. Direct seeded aromatic rice with brown manuring and machine transplanted rice in zero tilled plots with brown manuring recorded maximum organic carbon build up (0.35 and 0.36%) in soil. However, the effect of different establishment methods and nitrogen levels on organic carbon built up in soil was non significant. Key words: Aromatic rice, Establishment methods, Nitrogen levels, Organic carbon.

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Strategies for Water-wise Rice Production Muhammad Farooq Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad-38040, Pakistan, The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia. E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Rice is lifeline for the peoples of Asia; for them, life without rice is unthinkable. However, food security in the world is challenged by increasing food demand and threatened by declining water availability owing to changing climate. Developing the strategies for producing rice in changing climate is imperative to ensure food security for the future generations. Aerobic rice culture is an attractive alternative in this regard, which can drastically cut down the unproductive water outflows and increase water-use efficiency. This shift will produce profound changes in water conservation, soil organic matter turnover, nutrient dynamics, carbon impounding, weed flora, and greenhouse gas emissions. Although some of these changes can be positive, for example, water conservation and decreased methane emission, others might be negative, for example, release of nitrous oxide from the soil and decline in soil organic matter. The challenge will be to develop effective integrated natural–resource–management interventions, which would allow profitable rice cultivation with increased soil aeration, while maintaining the productivity, environmental safety, and sustainability of rice-based ecosystems. In my talk, I shall discuss the integrated approaches like genetics, breeding, and resource management to increase rice yield and to reduce water demand for rice production. CP-105

Isolation and characterization of CO2 and temperature tolerant bacteria from wheat rhizospheric soil Jupinder Kaur*, S.K. Gosal and Prabhjyot-Kaur1 Department of Microbiology and School of Climate Change and Agricultural Meteorology1, PAU, Ludhiana-141 004, India *E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Climate change factors such as rising atmospheric CO2 and warming interact to modify ecosystem properties and processes. However, the response of the microbial communities that regulate ecosystem processes is less predictable. Although effects of elevated CO2 and temperature on plant growth and primary productivity have been established but their impact on functions of soil microbial communities are poorly understood. In the present study, a total of 21 different nitrogen fixing bacteria were isolated. Out of 21 isolates, 8 isolates were able to grow upto 20% concentration of CO2 and 7 isolates showed growth upto 60°C temperature. Tolerance to high CO2 and high temperature was observed to be more in the bacteria isolated from wheat grown under temperature gradient tunnel. The bacterial isolates were characterized biochemically and the isolates were found to be belonging to the genera of Pseudomonas, Azotobacter and Bacillus. The isolates were characterized for IAA production, siderophore production, P-solubilization and ammonia excretion. The isolate WT5 had highest IAA production. Five and six isolates were found to show siderophore production and P-solubilization, respectively. The maximum amount of ammonia (3.70 µg/ml) was excreted by isolate WF3. The isolate WF6 was found to be the best isolate in terms of the functional characteristics and tolerance to high CO2 and temperature levels. Key words: Biochemical characterization, CO2 IAA production, Temperature gradient tunnel, Wheat

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Isolation and characterization of Chlorella sp. for biofuel production Jyoti Rai, 1 S. K. Gosal1, and Sucheta Sharma 2 Department of Microbiology1 and Department of Biochemistry2, PAU, Ludhiana – 141004 *E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Escalating fuel prices, quest for economic growth, and growing demand for petroleum products have spurred interest in the search of alternative sources of oil from algae. In the present study, algal strains were isolated from stagnant water samples. Based on morphological characteristics, these isolates were tentatively identified as belonging to the genera of Chlorella. The isolate JA6 had highest growth rate after 15 days of incubation. Increase in pH of the medium was recorded with the growth of algal isolates. The highest pH (10.3) was recorded in the isolate JA6 which was significantly higher than control (7.0). The supplementation of urea to growth medium did not result in much increase in pH. All the isolates, were screened for their lipid content and the highest lipid content (5.60 %) was recorded in the isolate JA3. The addition of glucose (10 g/l) to the growth medium resulted in increase in lipid content of the isolate JA3 from 5.60% to 7.52%. The isolate JA3 showed the highest saponification (169.69 mg/g of oil) and acid value (4.75mg/g of oil). The fatty acid composition of three algal isolates JA3, JA4 and JA7 was determined using gas liquid chromatography. The isolate JA3 contained highest proportion of stearic acid (41.60) followed by pentadecanoic acid (38.32) and oleic acid (19.01).Isolate JA4 and JA7 contained saturated fatty acids only. Hence, the isolate JA3 may be considered to be the best among the algal isolates. However, this lipid content is too low to use this isolate for biofuel production Key words : Algae, Acid value, Fatty Acid, Lipid content, Morphological characterization CP-107

Managing paddy soils to improve Zn bioavailability and agronomic performance of fine grain aromatic rice Hafeez Ur Rehman1*, Faiz Rasool1, Shahzad M A Basra1 and Abdul Wakeel2 Crop physiology, Department of crop physiology, university of agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan 2 Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad,38040, Pakistan, Pakistan E-mail *[email protected] 1

Abstract

Growing rice under water saving cultivation have great implication for Zn bioavailability due to changes in soil moisture and physico-chemical properties. Zn application has large impact on its soil availability, plant uptake and grain loading (Rehman et al., 2012). Recent studies indicate that when paddy soils are provided with temporary drainage during critical growth stages of rice it may affect the plant Zn availability (Beebout et al., 2013, Rehman et al., 2012). Beebout et al. (2009) reported that moderately aerobic conditions due to increase in redox potential maintained througout rice growing period can result in increased Zn uptake and grain accumulation. We also hypothesized that Zn applied at transplanting may improve nursery seedling growth in different rice systems and result in high grain Zn if temporary drainage period is provided during later growth stages. Rice nursery seedlings (22 days old) of cv. Super Basmati were transplanted in continous puddle field with split plot arrangement in randomized complete block design. Zinc (Zn using 15 kg ha-1, ZnSO4 33%) was applied within each subplot and no Zn plots were taken as control. Rice systems studied were transplanting in system of rice intensification (SRI), aerobic condition (AR) and alternate wetting and drying (AWD) in comparison to continuous flooding (CF) as control. Soil was of silt loam with 0.85 mg kg-1 DTPA extrcatbale Zn, pH 6.99, ECe 2.64 dSm-1, 4.49 mmolc L-1 HCO31 . After soil analysis, 143 kg N, 88 kg P and 68 kg ha-1 of K were added. Measurements for nursery seedling growth,

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” soil and plant Zn at seedling and physiological maturity, agronomic and yield traits, spikelet sterility and grain Zn were determined. Plant, soil and grain Zn were analyzed through atomic absorption spectrophotometer using wet digestion method and DTPA extractable method. Among production systems, Zn application improved plant height with maximum seedling fresh and dry weights, number of leaf and roots, tillers per plant, chl “a” and “b” contents in conventional flooding followed by alternate we. This improved seedling performance was followed by system of rice intensification. Improved seedling performance was correlated with high soil Zn availability under flooded condition. Likely at physiological maturity, maximum panicle length, number of panicles, zinc contents in leaves, roots, stem and grain were attained in conventional system by zinc application. This was followed by alternate wetting and drying at this stage due to water deficit prevailed in system of rice intensification. Paddy harvesting showed that maximum biological, kernel and straw yield was obtained by Zn application in conventional flooding system, spikelet sterility was reduced by Zn application while days to maturity were decreased to some extent. This was followed by alternate wetting and drying. Performance of aerobic rice at all stages of investigation while of system of rice intensification at physiological maturity and harvesting was poor. Soil analysis at different stages revealed that at initial stages maximum DTPA-Extractable zinc was present in conventional flooding where Zn was applied while at physiological maturity AWD gave higher soil Zn contents followed by CF and at harvesting system of rice intensification was having more Zn in soil than all other systems with similar results. High soil Zn availability and plant uptake during grain filling stages might be contributed to increased soil redox potential under aerobic conditions after soil drainage period. Thus for high soil Zn availability, plant uptake for grain Zn and improved yield performance, soil management should be integrated with water management during critical growth stages. Keywords: water shortage, redox potential, soil fertility, flooded rice, Zn application CP-108

Managing paddy soils to improve Zn bioavailability and agronomic performance of fine grain aromatic rice Hafeez Ur Rehman1*, Faiz Rasool1, Shahzad M A Basra1 and Abdul Wakeel2 1 Crop physiology, Department of crop physiology, university of agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan 2 Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad,38040, Pakistan, Pakistan E-mail *[email protected]

Abstract

Growing rice under water saving cultivation have great implication for Zn bioavailability due to changes in soil moisture and physico-chemical properties. Zn application has large impact on its soil availability, plant uptake and grain loading (Rehman et al., 2012). Recent studies indicate that when paddy soils are provided with temporary drainage during critical growth stages of rice it may affect the plant Zn availability (Beebout et al., 2013, Rehman et al., 2012). Beebout et al. (2009) reported that moderately aerobic conditions due to increase in redox potential maintained througout rice growing period can result in increased Zn uptake and grain accumulation. We also hypothesized that Zn applied at transplanting may improve nursery seedling growth in different rice systems and result in high grain Zn if temporary drainage period is provided during later growth stages. Rice nursery seedlings (22 days old) of cv. Super Basmati were transplanted in continous puddle field with split plot arrangement in randomized complete block design. Zinc (Zn using 15 kg ha-1, ZnSO4 33%) was applied within each subplot and no Zn plots were taken as control. Rice systems studied were transplanting in system of rice intensification (SRI), aerobic condition (AR) and alternate wetting and drying (AWD) in comparison to continuous flooding (CF) as control. Soil was of silt loam with 0.85 mg kg-1 DTPA extrcatbale Zn, pH 6.99, ECe 2.64 dSm-1, 4.49 mmolc L-1 HCO31 . After soil analysis, 143 kg N, 88 kg P and 68 kg ha-1 of K were added. Measurements for nursery seedling growth, soil and plant Zn at seedling and physiological maturity, agronomic and yield traits, spikelet sterility and grain Zn were determined. Plant, soil and grain Zn were analyzed through atomic absorption spectrophotometer using wet digestion method and DTPA extractable method. Among production systems, Zn application improved plant height with maximum seedling fresh and dry weights, number of leaf and roots, tillers per plant, chl “a” and “b” contents in conventional flooding followed by alternate we. This improved seedling performance was followed by system of rice intensification. Improved seedling performance was correlated with high soil Zn availability under flooded condition. Likely at physiological maturity, maximum panicle length, number of panicles, zinc contents in leaves, roots, stem and grain were attained in

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” conventional system by zinc application. This was followed by alternate wetting and drying at this stage due to water deficit prevailed in system of rice intensification. Paddy harvesting showed that maximum biological, kernel and straw yield was obtained by Zn application in conventional flooding system, spikelet sterility was reduced by Zn application while days to maturity were decreased to some extent. This was followed by alternate wetting and drying. Performance of aerobic rice at all stages of investigation while of system of rice intensification at physiological maturity and harvesting was poor. Soil analysis at different stages revealed that at initial stages maximum DTPA-Extractable zinc was present in conventional flooding where Zn was applied while at physiological maturity AWD gave higher soil Zn contents followed by CF and at harvesting system of rice intensification was having more Zn in soil than all other systems with similar results. High soil Zn availability and plant uptake during grain filling stages might be contributed to increased soil redox potential under aerobic conditions after soil drainage period. Thus for high soil Zn availability, plant uptake for grain Zn and improved yield performance, soil management should be integrated with water management during critical growth stages. Keywords: water shortage, redox potential, soil fertility, flooded rice, Zn application CP-109

OPTIMIZING AGRONOMIC TECHNIQUES FOR MAXIMUM ECONOMIC YIELD OF SUNFLOWER (Helianthus annus L.) Sukhpreet Singh* and SK Dhillon Oilseed Section, Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana *E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Sunflower (Helianthus annus L.) is an important oilseed crop cultivated for its premier oil and manifold uses of both industrial and pharmaceutical importance. Its wider adaptability, day neutral nature and responsiveness to better management practices have played a significant role in its cultivation across varied agro-climatic zones within a span of three decades of its introduction in the country. In Punjab, Sunflower is grown in the spring season. With the development of new short duration hybrids, there is a need for optimization of agronomic techniques for this crop. Keeping this in view, an experiment was conducted at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana in spring 2013 to evaluate response of Sunflower to application of organics, varying plant population and different level of fertilizers. The experiment was conducted in split plot design with three replications. Main plot treatments comprised two levels of organics (no organics and 5 t compost/ha) and subplot treatments were factorial combination of 3 plant population levels viz. recommended, 25% lower and 25% higher plant population and 3 fertilizer levels viz. recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), 125% of RDF and 133% of RDF. The experiment was conducted on loamy sand soil with neutral pH, low in available N, high in available P and low in available K. The results revealed that application of compost resulted in significantly higher plant height over no compost but did not have any significant influence on stem girth, head diameter, leaf area index, hectolitre weight, number of seeds per head and 100-seed weight of sunflower Application of compost resulted in significantly higher seed yield of sunflower (2616 kg/ha) over no compost (2404 kg/ha). Oil content of sunflower seeds was not significantly influenced by application of compost. However, compost application recorded significantly higher oil yield (1005 kg/ha) over no compost (867 kg/ha). Maintaining recommended plant population resulted in significantly higher plant height, head diameter, 100-seed weight and yield per plant over lower and higher plant population. Recommended plant population gave significantly higher seed yield of sunflower (2749 kg/ha) over both lower plant population (2171 kg/ha) and higher plant population (2609 kg/ha). Though there was no significant influence of varying plant population on oil content yet oil yield was significantly higher in recommended plant population (1029 kg/ha) over lower and higher plant population. Among different fertilizer levels application of 133% RDF resulted in significantly higher plant height, stem girth, head diameter, seeds per head and yield per plant over RDF and 125% RDF. Seed yield of sunflower was significantly higher where 33% more NPK was applied (2665 kg/ha) over recommended NPK (2353 kg/ha) and 25% more NPK (2511). Varying fertilizer levels did not have any significant influence on oil content but oil yield was significantly higher where 133% NPK (1007 kg/ha) was applied over RDF (866 kg/ha) and 125% of RDF (935 kg/ha). Interaction effects of different main plot and sub-plot treatments were found to be non-significant for all the growth and yield parameters of sunflower.

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Productivity and economics of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) in response to nitrogen applied through different sources integrated with biofertilizer consortium Davinder Singh, *Rajender Kumar, Avtar Singh, **S K Gosal, S S Walia and Roopinder Singh Department of Agronomy, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana – 141004, Punjab

Abstract

A Field investigation was carried out to study the effects of nitrogen applied through organic (FYM) and inorganic and biofertilizer consortium (Azotobacter, phosphate solubilising bacteria and plant growth promoting rhziobacteria) on growth, yield attributes, yield and economics of turmeric during 2012-13 at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. The treatments were comprised of 75, 100 (25 t ha-1 FYM ~ 125 kg N ha-1) and 125 per cent of recommended N through organic and inorganic source of nitrogen alone and in combination with the biofertilizers and control. The treatments were evaluated in randomized complete block design with four replications on loamy sand soil with low in organic carbon, available nitrogen and medium in available phosphorus and potassium. Results revealed that application of organic manures (FYM) had beneficial effects on growth, yield attributes and yield of turmeric. Crop growth was better and yield of turmeric was significantly higher with application of organic manure (FYM). The maximum yield of 204.4 q ha-1 was obtained with application of 125 percent of recommended organic manure combined with the biofertilizers, which was statistically at par with 100 percent of recommended organic manure alone or in combination with the biofertilizers. The application of biofertilizers improved growth and yield of turmeric to some extent. The different levels of nitrogen applied through inorganic sources alone and along with biofertilizers did not show significant effect on growth and yield of turmeric. The cost benefit ratio was also higher under the treatments where organic manure alone or applied in combination with biofertilizers. Key words: Biofertilizers, FYM, inorganic nitrogen, turmeric, yield. CP-111

Response of wheat to different moisture regimes and moisture stress management M. D. Patil, A. S. Dhindwal and Dheeraj. K. R. Tiwari CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the important food crop of world and is grown under different agro climatic conditions. In India it is the second most important food crop, cultivated extensively in North-Western and Central zones. A field experiment on “Response of wheat to different moisture regimes and moisture stress management” was conducted at Agronomy Research Farm, CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar during rabi seasons of 2010-11 and 2011-12. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications. There were 24 treatment combinations consisting of four moisture regimes as main plots and six moisture stress management practices as subplots. Four moisture regimes are S1-CRI (irrigation at crown root initiation) + 100 mm CPE (cumulative pan evaporation), S2-CRI + 150 CPE, S3-CRI + 200 CPE. S4-CRI and six moisture stress management practices are M1: No moisture stress management practices, M2: Seed hardening (SH) by CaCl2, M3: SH + KCl spray at 90 DAS, M4: SH + Mycorrhizae application at sowing + KCl spray at 90 DAS, M5: SH + Mycorrhizae + KCl spray at 90 DAS + Kaolin spray at 115 DAS and M6: Pusa hydrogel (3 kg/ha) at sowing. The physiological parameters like relative water content, leaf water potential, chlorophyll content and canopy temperature depression, were found to be highest with irrigation at CRI + 100 mm CPE closely followed by CRI + 150 mm CPE, CRI + 200 CPE and lowest with irrigation at CRI only, during both the season. Similar trend was recorded in terms of grain, straw and biological yields and harvest index. Moisture stress management practices involving SH + mycorrhizae + KCl spray + kaolin spray had favorable and no management practices had unfavorable impact on the physiological

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” parameters like relative water content, leaf water potential, chlorophyll content and canopy temperature depression, and yield as well. CP-112

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia: A potential plant growth promoting nitrogen fixing bacterium S. K. Gosal, G. S. Saroa1, Yogesh Vikal2 and Amita Mehta* Department of Microbiology, Department of Soil Science1, and School of Agricultural Biotechnology2, PAU, Ludhiana-141004, India E mail: *[email protected]

ABSTRACT

Soil teems with diverse groups of microorganisms which are crucial to the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems. Bacterial diversity is the major driving force of fundamental metabolic processes in rhizosphere-dynamic environment; therefore a basic understanding of diversity of soil biota is required in order to preserve the integrity, function and long term sustainability of natural and managed terrestrial ecosystems. In the present study, a nitrogen fixing bacterium, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia was isolated from wheat based cropping system of Punjab, which is a gram negative, rod shaped bacterium. The physicochemical properties of the soil sample such as pH (7.9), EC (0.44 dSm-1), OC (0.13 %), ammonical (70 ppm) and nitrate nitrogen (120 ppm) were studied. The bacterial isolate was characterized culturally, morphologically and biochemically using standard techniques. The bacterium was screened for functional characteristics such as P-solubilization, IAA production, ammonia excretion and acetylene reduction assay. Molecular characterization of the bacterium was done using partial sequencing of 16S rDNA. Nitrogen fixing ability was determined using two primers as: Nif H1 and Nif H2. Plant growth promoting potential of the bacterium was assessed under glass house conditions using maize as host plant. Increased root - shoot biomass, root - shoot length, NPK and micronutrient content of the maize plants were observed with inoculation of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia as compared to uninoculated control plants. Key words: Functional characterisation, nif H, plant growth promotion, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, 16 rDNA

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” DP-1

Agricultural Economy of Punjab: Growth to Crisis Sukhpal Singh, H S Kingra, Sangeet and Shruti Bhogal Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana Email: [email protected], [email protected]

Abstract

The adoption of capital intensive technologies, following the green revolution model catapulted the state of Punjab to the status of ‘grain bowl of India’. The present study, based on secondary data, attempts to examine different aspects of agricultural sector with special emphasis on development and crisis related issues of the Punjab economy. Though the productivity of various crops has been increasing continuously overtime but due to various state policies more concentration is being laid on cultivation of a few crops, which is leading to change in the cropping pattern. The gross cropped area under maize, sugarcane, pulses and oilseeds is declining in favour of wheat and paddy which are remunerative and have assured marketing as facilitated by minimum support price by the government. The overall capital investment in the form of tubewells, tractors, use of fertilizers and chemicals, etc. has been rising to increase productivity. However, the agricultural sector of the state is witnessing a declining trend in share of employment and number of landholdings of small farmers. The number of small landholdings has declined from 3.96 lakh in 1980-81 to 2.68 lakh in 2005-06. Similarly, the percentage of cultivators and agricultural labourers to the total workforce has been declining since 1971, for capitalization and declining profitability. The current agricultural practices are posing a threat to the economic conditions of peasantry along with depletion of various natural resources especially water and soil. There is a need to develop alternative agricultural strategies for addressing the problems of Punjab agriculture. DP-2

Agriculture Development in Punjab: Recent Performances and Concerns Kulwinder Singh and Naresh Singla* *Assistant Professors, Centre for Economic Studies, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda

Abstract

Among Indian states, Punjab has been well known for its advanced agriculture and also called agricultural economy, contributing significantly in central foodgrain pool and thus having crucial role in national food security. In terms of per acre productivity it compares well even with advanced countries. Advanced agriculture without matching industrialisation is an imbalance in itself and has generated a number of problems and difficulties which are a reflection of a serious crisis. This sector is prone to multidimensional crisis in its various spheres not presently but also since the incidence of New Agricultural strategy led green revolution. In the point of view of emerging agrarian crises, this paper examines performance of Punjab’s agriculture sector and also explores some respective concerns. It is held that, in the context of structural change theory, declining share of agriculture sector in state income accompanied by raising prosperity among people is an important indicator of transforming a traditional economy into an advanced one. However this is quite evident in Punjab in terms of income and employment, but economic prosperity in the state in agriculture sector is witnessing an alarming situation. Inability to diversify the cropping pattern has created ecological imbalance and raised environmental concerns which further put question mark on the sustainability of agriculture. GSM based model of Second Green revolution if implemented in Punjab in near future without correcting prevailing imbalances/crises, will implicate Punjab economy by number of ways and would enhance the level of crises extensively and intensively. Keywords: Punjab Agriculture, Performances, Concerns. JEL Classification Code: Q10, Q18, Q56

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Growth of Agriculture and Environmental Issues in Punjab Sukhjeet K. Saran* and Arjinder Kaur** * Professor and **Associate Professor of Economics, Department of Economics and Sociology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab- India141001 E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

The sustainable growth has gained importance in the present context as many natural resources which were once regarded as free goods, have now become scarce on one hand and on the other, there is immediate need to prevent depletion/ degradation of these resources to make the sustainable growth feasible. Keeping in view the above mentioned facts, this secondary data based study was devised to highlight agricultural development and its adverse effect on resource sustainability and environment in the state. The population of Punjab has increased from 11.13 million in 1961 to about 28 million in 2010-11, resulting in growing pressure on land and environment. Punjab has achieved substantial increase in food grains production from 3.16 million tones in 1960-61 to 27.85 million tones in 2010-11. The gross cropped area has increased from 4.7 million hectares in 1960-61 to 7.9 million hectares in 2010-11. Increased cultivation involves increased use of implements, machinery, tractors, diesel engines, electric motors etc. The high productivity potential of rice and wheat crops have changed entire cropping pattern in Punjab. The state of Punjab with only 1.53 per cent of geographical area of the country became food bowl of the country. In 2010-11, the contribution of state has been 39 per cent in wheat and 26.7 per cent in rice to the central pool of the country. In the wake of new technologies adopted in state agriculture has put great stress on underground water reservoirs also. Due to high water intensity of prevailing crop rotation, along with decline in canal irrigation as well as rainfall trends has increased the area irrigated with tube wells. Huge investments have been undertaken by the farmers on irrigation structures to extract water from deeper layers of the soil. Excess and irrational use of water has caused water logging of 1.22 lakh hectares of land in Punjab. About 6.20 lakh hectares of land has been poor in fertility due to loss of nutrient with deep percolation and leaching. The rice-wheat system in Punjab, annually generate around 30 million tones of crop residues. 81 per cent of rice residue has been burnt in Punjab. Strong policy measures are required to turn the market forces in favour of other crops and taking some firm decisions to check the fragile ecological health of Punjab. DP-4

National Food Security and Sustainability of Punjab Agriculture Sangeet, Amarpreet Kaur and Shruti Bhogal3 Deptt. of Economics & Sociology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana e mail : [email protected]

Abstract

Sustainable agriculture is crucial for ensuring food, nutrition and livelihood security of a nation. India has made rapid progress in food grain production during second half of the 20th century in which Punjab played a leading role. Punjab province occupies an important place in the agricultural economy of India. It accounts for about 19 per cent of wheat and 11 per cent of rice production. Punjab State is a major contributor towards the public distribution system by supplying about 25 per cent rice and about 34 per cent wheat to the central pool and hence is a significant player in the food security of the India. Secondary data was collected from a number of reference books, State Government publications especially Statistical Abstract of Punjab and published documents, Economic Survey of India and various statistical tools were used. The favourable policy interventions made the wheat-rice combination as the most profitable crop sequence with minimum yield and absolutely no price risk. As a result of substantial area shifts in favour of these two crops, the traditional diversity of cropping pattern was eroded. The three pillars of the agricultural revolution in Punjab - high-yield crop intensification, subsidised access to electricity for drawing water for irrigation and increased chemical fertiliser use - have culminated in

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” several negative ecological externalities. The increasing costs, declining profits, receding water availability, declining soil fertility etc. coupled with future uncertainties have brought about an economic, environmental and social distress. These need to be probed, measured and valued in order to ensure future agricultural sustainability and enable Punjab to maintain its position of being the food security provider to the nation. DP-5

TECHNOLOGICAL IMPACTS ON AGRICULTURE *Arundeep Singh Brar, *Sharanpreet Singh Brar, *Amandeep Singh Brar, *Gurjiwan Singh Brar (Dept. of Applied Management, Otago Polytechnic Auckland International Campus, New Zealand) 2, 3, 4(Dept. of Agriculture Sciences, Baba Farid Group of Institutions, Bathinda) E-mail : [email protected], sharanbrar82@ gmail.com, [email protected] 1

Abstract

The history of agriculture dates back thousands of years, and its development has been driven and defined by greatly different climates, cultures, and technologies. Over one third of the world’s workers are employed in agriculture, second only to the services sector, although the percentages of agricultural workers in developed countries has decreased significantly over the past several centuries. Agricultural food production and water management are increasingly becoming global issues that are fostering debate on a number of fronts. Significant degradation of land and water resources, including the depletion of aquifers, has been observed in recent decades, and the effects of global warming on agriculture and of agriculture on global warming are still not fully understood. Technological improvements have sharply increased yields from cultivation, but at the same time have caused widespread ecological damage and negative human health effects. Governments usually implement agricultural policies with the goal of achieving a specific outcome in the domestic agricultural product markets. Agricultural policy can also touch on food quality, ensuring that the food supply is of a consistent and known quality, food security, ensuring that the food supply meets the population’s needs, and conservation. Key Words: Agriculture, Technological Improvements, Effects, Policies, etc. DP-6

Triggering Agricultural Development Through Horticulture Crops in Punjab Parminder Kaur and Poonam Kataria Department of Economics & Sociology, PAU, Ludhiana E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

The issue of diversification is of a serious concern for Punjab, the state aptly named as ‘The Granary of India’. The mono cropping of rice and wheat has already taking its toll in terms of deteriorating soil health and depleting water resources. Horticulture is the emerging sector in agricultural diversification that has the potential to augment income of the farmers and generate employment opportunities in rural areas. The advantage of higher employment opportunities is expected to benefit small holders more as they possess more family labour. Apart from the employment generation at farm level in the cultivation of fruits and vegetables, substantial demand for labour is expected in non-farm agricultural sector, agri-business and agro-based industries since these crops warrant scientific pre and post –harvest handling. The area under fruits and vegetables as percent of gross cropped area (GCA) has picked up from 0.7 percent in 1980-81 to 3.3 percent in 201011, testifying that crop diversification towards horticultural crops is underway. The strength of fruits and vegetables as diversification option is accentuated by significantly high share enjoyed by these high value crops (HYCs) in the value of output originating in the agriculture sector. Since fruits and vegetables are perishable in nature, lack of efficient marketing system and appropriate infrastructure result in post harvest losses. Infrastructural facilities like storage and processing of fruits and vegetables will encourage the farmers to increase crop diversification towards high value- crops and will raise the farm income in the state.

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Comparative Economics of paddy cultivation by different methods of sowing Gurpreet Kaur, Jasvinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh and Amandeep Kaur, FASS, Patiala *[email protected]

Abstract

The present study was undertaken with the objective to find out the most economical method of sowing in paddy. In Punjab paddy is the main crop and is grown on approximately 28 lakh hectare area. In the present study out of 22 districts of the state, 2 districts namely Patiala and Fatehgarh Sahib were selected randomly and by using probability proportion to size technique, a representative sample of 175 farmers were selected from both the district. The primary data pertaining to all the parameters of cost of cultivation was collected from the sample farmers by personal interview on specially designed questionnaire. Simple averages and percentages were used to draw some inferences from the study. The study revealed that in manual transplanting total variable cost comes out to be Rs. 21031 while it is Rs. 15767 in DSR and Rs. 19748 in mechanical transplanting. The gross return from the paddy crop is Rs. 40760 in manual transplanting, Rs. 40120 in DSR and Rs. 41400 in case of mechanical transplanting. DSR in turn provides a net return of Rs. 24353 where as manual transplanting yielded Rs. 19729 and Rs. 21652 in case of mechanical transplanting. The present study clearly indicate that DSR gave maximum return per acre over the other methods of sowing. Additionally there is 10-15% saving of irrigation water in DSR as compared to mechanical or manual transplanting. DP-8

Environmental Sustainability Agricultural Growth and Food Security. Effect of Polyamines on Seed Quality Parameters of Two Seed Lots of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) Kirandeep Kaur and Namarta Gupta Department of Botany, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Pb. [email protected], [email protected]

Abstract

The present investigation was undertaken with the objectives to study the effect of polyamines (Spermidine and Spermine) on seed quality parameters of fresh and aged seeds of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) using 0.5 and 1.0 mM concentration of spermine and spermidine. The spermine and spermidine at 0.5 mM and 1.0 mM for 12 h and 24 h significantly increased the germination parameters in both fresh and aged seeds. Though all the seed treatments improved the germination percentage, but the effect was maximum with spermidine (1.0 mM). Among the biochemical parameters sugar and protein content was significantly increased in both seed lots with various seed treatments. Spermidine 1.0 mM (24 h) increased the sugar as well as protein content maximally as compared to other treatments. Similar increase in catalase and peroxidase enzyme activity was recorded in seeds treated with Spermidine 1.0 mM followed by Spermidine 0.5mM in fresh as well as aged seeds.

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EFFECT OF STEAMING ON PHYSICAL, PHYTOCHEMICAL AND ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF HULLED BARLEY Davinder Jeet Kaur*, Hardeep Singh Gujral, Jessy Mojha and Hradesh Rajput Department of Food Science & Technology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar – 143005, Punjab E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

The hulled barley variety BH-902 was analyzed for physical parameters i.e. moisture content, water absorption capacity (WAC), water solubility index (WSI), phytochemical properties i.e. total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), reducing power and antioxidant properties after giving the treatment of different steaming time (20 min & 60 min) with fix steeping period of 24 h. Moisture content of the control sample of barley flour was 9.82% which get decreased up to 6.19% with 20 min steaming. WAC of the control sample was 1.52 g/g of flour which get increased up to 3.2 g/g of flour with steaming of 60 min. WSI of the control sample was 7.03% which get decreased up to 5.11% with 60 min steaming. TPC of barley flour get increased with 60 min steaming up to 1971.79 µgm FAE ∕ gm of flour from control sample i.e. 1241.02 µgm FAE ∕ gm of flour. TFC of control sample was 106.24µgm CE ∕ gm of flour. Steaming of 60 min get increased the content to 93.9 µgm CE ∕ gm of flour. Reducing power of control sample was 61.83 µgm AAE/ gm of flour. Steaming of 20 min get increased the value to 64.97 µgm AAE ∕ gm of flour. Antioxidant activity for the control sample was 40.38%. Steaming of 60 min get increased the antioxidant activity up to 68.8%. Key Words: Barley, steaming, antioxidant, flavonoids, WAC DP-10

Standardization of sieve size for grading wheat (Triticum aestivum) seeds S.S. Jakhar, Axay Bhuker and V.P. Sangwan Department of Seed Science & Technology, CCS, Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125004 E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Seeds may differ by size, weight and density due to production environment and cultivation practices. Generally, the seeds are being processed by cleaning and grading on the basis of sieve sizes. A considerable amount of quality seeds are being lost during cleaning and grading as undersize due to the use of unsuitable screens. The aim of seed grading is to get maximum seed recovery with better seed quality so that uniform seed size can be obtained which results in optimum plant population and higher yield. In order to minimize the loss and to meet the demand for good quality seeds for the farmers, the present study was carried out on four wheat varieties viz. PBW-343, WH-1025, HD-2967 and WH-283 were graded by using different sieves of 2.1 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.4 mm and 2.5 mm as a grading sieve while using 5.5 mm (r) as top sieve. The samples from seed retained over each sieve were collected separately and tested for seed quality parameters. The results revealed that sieve size of 2.2 mm was found effective and economical for grading wheat varieties viz. PBW343, WH-1025 and HD-2967 registered seed recovery 94.30, 92.43 and 90.80% respectively with germination (90,89 and 92%, respectively) and physical purity (98% each) above the IMSCS (Table 1.1). The sieve size of 2.4 mm was effective and economical for grading wheat variety WH-283 for better seed recovery (89.57%) with germination (95%) and physical purity (98%). Key words: Sieve size, grading, seed quality, wheat seed.

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Standardization of sieve size for grading green gram (Vigna radiata L.) seeds V.P. Sangwan, Axay Bhuker and V.S. Mor Department of Seed Science & Technology, CCS, Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125004 Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Seeds may differ by size, weight and density due to production environment and cultivation practices. Generally, the seeds are being processed by cleaning and grading on the basis of sieve sizes. A considerable amount of quality seeds are being lost during cleaning and grading as undersize due to the use of unsuitable screens. The aim of seed grading is to get maximum seed recovery with better seed quality so that uniform seed size can be obtained which results in optimum plant population and higher yield. In order to minimise the loss and to meet the demand for good quality seeds for the farmers the present study was carried out on four green gram varieties viz. Basanti, Satya, SML-668 and MH-421 were graded by using different sieves of 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.75 mm, 3.00 mm and 3.25 mm as a grading sieve while using 5.5 mm(r) used as top sieve. The samples from seed retained over each sieve were collected separately and tested for seed quality parameters in the seed testing laboratory of the department. The results indicated that 2.4 mm sieve size was found effective and economical for grading Basanti, Satya and MH-421for maximum seed recovery (78.35, 79.34 and 80.18% respectively) with high seed quality i.e. germination (75, 75 and 76 % respectively) and physical purity (98% each) above the IMSCS (Table 1.2). The sieve size of 3.00 mm was found effective and economical for grading variety SML-668 with seed recovery (72.65%), germination (79%) and physical purity (98%). It is concluded from this investigation that sieve size must be standardized for individual variety for maximum seed recovery with best quality. Key words: Sieve size, grading, seed quality, mungbean DP-12

STUDIES ON PHYSICOCHEMICAL, PHYTOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF SPINACH JUICE STORED WITH CHEMICAL ADDITIVES Gurpreet Kaur*, Poonam Aggarwal and Amarjeet Kaur Department of Food Science and Technology, Punjab Agricultural University Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Spinach is considered as a super food all over the world. It acts as a natural agent for purifying the blood and maintaining healthy cell activity, which may inhibit cancer. It plays an important role in neutralizing acids in the body, as its natural alkalinity lowers pH levels. It helps in prevention of diseases of the mouth like pyorrhea or gum inflammation and bleeding, and as a preventative measure against cavities. Spinach contains 13 different types of antioxidant compounds that prevent free radical damage of cells in the body. Therefore, this cool season and highly perishable vegetable can be made available for the consumers in off seasons also in the form of juice. The juice can be made shelf stable by using chemical additives and heat treatment. Hence, the aim of the experiment was to compare the effect of chemical additive namely Sodium benzoate, open vat sterilization and autoclaving on physicochemical and phytochemical parameters and antioxidant activity of Spinach juice. The storage was done for 6 months at room temperature and the analysis was conducted at the interval of one month. For the physicochemical parameters like TS, TSS and b values, very slight but non-significant change was observed. Color values (L & a), titratable acidity, Vitamin C, Total Phenols and Antioxidant activity changed significantly (p≤0.05). Considering all the parameters, samples treated with potassium metabisulfite (KMS) maintained the maximum nutrient stability.

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FATTY ACID PROFILE AND SENSORY CHARACTERISTICS OF CHAPATTIS AS INFLUENCED BY FLAXSEED Yogita Rana1, Alka Sharma2 Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering & Technology, Longowal-148106, Punjab 2 Guru Jambeshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar -125001,Haryana 1

Abstract

This study was carried to investigate the Fatty acid profile of chapattis as influenced by flaxseed. Microwave roasting reduced the cyanogenic glycosides content of flaxseed thus making it fit for human consumption. Microwave roasting achieved the highest level of HCN reduction in flaxseed. The partial defatting of flaxseed resulted in the improvement of chemical constituents of flaxseed meal. The flaxseed flours (partially defatted and full fat) supplemented wheat flour significantly improved the chemical composition (ash, crude fat, crude fiber and crude protein). The scores assigned to all the sensory parameters of chapattis affected significantly with the variation in levels of flaxseed supplementation in wheat flours. The scores for colour, overall acceptability, flavour and taste of chapattis decreased. The 15% defatted and 10% full fat flaxseed flours were found the maximum acceptable levels for replacement in chapattis. DP-14

Effect of honey on pasting and thermal properties of Barley Starch Gulzar Ahmad Nayik1*, Ishrat Majid1, Vikas Nanda1 Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering & Technology, Longowal, Sangrur, Punjab, India 1 [email protected]

1

Abstract

The effect of added honey (0 to 20%) was studied on pasting, thermal properties and extrusion cooking of barley starch. Barely starch showed increase in peak, final, breakdown and setback viscosity when levels of honey was increased from 0% to 10% while honey at concentration of 15% and 20% decreased all the pasting properties parameters. The difference in pasting properties behavior at different concentration of honey was attributed to honey amylase activity. Increasing the concentration of honey did not affect the gelatinization characteristics of starch. The indifference of starch gelatinization to varying honey concentration was attributed to the opposing effect of sugars and water on gelatinization. The increase in honey levels resulted in extrudate with increased bulk density, colour a* value and decreased lateral expansion, hardness colour L* value and b* value. Keywords: Extrusion cooking, barley, honey, gelatinization. DP-15

EFFECT OF UNSTABILIZED GEL ON THE PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF HOT FILLED AND CHEMICALLY PRESERVED ALOE VERA JUICE Desh Bharti, Pushpinder Singh Ranote and Arashdeep Singh* Department of Food Science and Technology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004 E-Mail : [email protected]

Abstract

Aloe vera is a succulent plant, mainly found in arid region. Due to its various medicinal properties with nutrient contents, it has been targeted to be used in various products ranging from cosmetic to nutrient supplement. Present investigation was

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” carried out to study the effect of unstabilized aloe vera gel on the physicochemical constituents of hot filled and chemically preserved aloe vera juice. Aloe gel prepared by traditional hand filleting method was kept unstabalized and processed into juice and was hot filled and chemically preserved and filled into pre sterilized bottles. Sodium benzoate and pottasium metabisulphite was added @ 100 ppm in Juice extracted from unstabalized Aloe vera gel prior to filling. Two different juices T1H (Unstabalized and hot filled), T1C (Unstabalized and chemically preserved), along with control were prepared and accessed for total solids, acidity, pH, TSS, total sugars, reducing sugars, crude proteins, phenols, ascorbic acid and sensory attributes. Hot filled juice was found to have high, TSS, moisture, reducing sugars, total sugars, crude proteins and low total solids, acidity, pH, ascorbic acid and phenols as compared to chemically preserved filled juice. Highest overall acceptability scores were awarded to T1C (unstabilized and chemically preserved) juice and liked most by the panellists as compared to other juice samples. Keywords: Aloe vera, unstabilized gel, hot filled and chemically preserved juice, physicochemical characteristics, sensory quality DP-16

INFLUENCE OF SULFUR AND NITROGEN AVAILABILITY ON STORAGE PROTEIN ACCUMULATION AT DIFFERENT GROWTH STAGES IN MUNGBEAN [VIGNA RADIATA (L.) WILCZEK] Arvind Kumar, Sucheta Sharma, J S Sital and Sarvjeet Singh* Department of Biochemistry, *Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004 E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

In the present investigation, accumulation of various protein fractions at different stages of development in mungbean seeds of varieties PAU 911 and ML 818 harvested from plants grown under different treatments of sulfur (gypsum, single super phosphate) and nitrogen (urea, ammonium nitrate) either alone or in combination (urea + single super phosphate and gypsum + ammonium nitrate) was studied. The contents of protein fractions viz. albumin, globulin, glutelin, prolamin and subfractions of globulin (legumin and vicilin) increased under the effect of various treatments from 4 to 24 days after flowering (DAF) with maximum accumulation at 20 DAF as compared to control (T1, without any sulfur and nitrogen source). Increased incorporation of radiolabelled leucine into albumin and globulin fractions of storage proteins in both the varieties was observed under the effect of different sources of sulfur and nitrogen. Maximum incorporation of C14 labelled leucine in storage protein was observed at 16 DAF (i.e. active stage of protein deposition in mungbean) and treatment with gypsum showed the highest incorporation of C14 labelled leucine in these protein fractions. DP-17

INFLUENCE OF SULPHUR ON PROTEIN QUALITY OF SOYBEAN [GLYCINE MAX (L.) MERRILL] SEED UNDER AGROCLIMATIC CONDITIONS OF PUNJAB Gurpreet Kaur, Sucheta Sharma and B S Gill* Department of Biochemistry, *Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004 E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Soybean protein is one of the important vegetable protein source for human and livestock, contributing to the nutritional value of foods and feeds. Accumulation pattern of various protein fractions in soybean seeds (cv. SL 525) harvested at different stages of development from plants grown under different treatments of sulphur i.e. gypsum and single super phosphate (SSP) @ 10, 20 and 30 kg S ha-1 were investigated. The contents of various protein fractions viz. albumin, globulin and glutelin increased under the effect of various treatments from 30 DAP to maturity with maximum accumulation

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” during mid-maturation stage i.e. 45 to 60 DAP. Sulphur fertilization significantly affected the accumulation of globulin subfractions viz glycinin and β-conglycinin. Both acidic and basic polypeptides of glycinins increased with sulphur treatments at all growth stages with maximum accumulation with gypsum @ 10 kg S ha-1as revealed by densitometric analysis of electrophoretic gels. Thus, sulphur nutrition specifically influenced the accumulation of sulphur rich proteins relative to sulphur poor proteins of soybean. The increase in 11S/7S ratio in mature seeds due to various levels of sulphur fertilization as compared to control indicated improvement of soybean seed quality. DP-18

Processing and nutritional quality evaluation of sand pear (Pyrus pyrifolia) based RTS Beverage Shilpa Sharma*, Ranjana Verma, Rajni Modgil and Y.S. Dhaliwal Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Technology CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur- 176 062 (HP) *Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Sand pear is the important pome fruit, commonly called Patharnakh and belongs to family Rosaceae. The fruit of sand pear is firm, juicy and has high water content. It is highly nutritious and contains various nutrients. A major portion of this crop is utilized as raw and also in the production of juice, wine making, canning, drying and cooking in some countries. Hence, attempts were made to standardize the methodology for preparation of ready to serve (RTS) beverage from sand pear. RTS is a fruit beverage which contains at least 10 per cent total soluble solids besides about 0.3 per cent acid. The prepared product was stored for 6 months of storage at ambient conditions. With storage, various parameters such as acidity, reducing sugars and total sugars increased. The ascorbic acid content of freshly prepared RTS was recorded as 1.52 mg/100ml which declined to 0.75 mg/100ml after six months. With storage, there was a significant decreased in TSS, pH, brix/ acd ratio and non-reducing sugars content after six months. Formulation of sand pear as RTS will provide an alternate utilization of sand pear and add to the wide spectrum of processed products at household as well as commercial level. Key words: Sand pear, Nutritional quality, Value addition, Storage stability. DP-19

Optimization of CMCase production from T. Reesei Pawanjot Kaur* and Seema Ahuja Department of Agriculture, BFC, Deon(Bti.)

Abstract

The present study had been attempted to use agro industrial wastes as raw material (as various pure forms of cellulose such as Avicel, Solka floc and cotton are expensive and had been used for large scale production of cellulases) for production of endoglucanases by T. reesei. and observing activity. The experiment comprised of two different growing media of T. reesei viz. Medium no. 65 (Malt Extract Agar) and Mineral salt solution for SSF. The nature of solid substrate is the most important factor which affect enzyme production in SSF. Four different solid agro industrial wastes were used as substrates viz. Wheat Bran, Rice husk, Rice Bran and Bagasse. The maximum endoglucanase activity was observed when rice husk was used as the substrate. Rice husk was observed to be the best substrate for CMCase production. Effect of different incubation temperature and pH was also studied and endoglucanasec activity assayed. Effect of pretreatment of substrate was also studied to optimize CMcase activity.

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GLUTEN FREE FOODS Navjot Kaur*, Baljit Singh and Savita Sharma Department of Food Science and Technology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana.

Abstract

Foods are not only intended to satisfy hunger and to provide necessary nutrients for humans but also to prevent nutrient related diseases and improve the physical and mental well-being of consumer. Due to increasing control over nutrition and health, consumers are becoming more proactive towards their health. Gluten is a protein complex found in Triticale family of grains has been reported to cause allergic reactions in people suffering from celiac disease. The celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder of small intestine. Gliadin fraction of protein, causes an inflammatory reaction leads to villous atrophy and interferes with the absorption of nutrients. The only treatment in celiac disease is a lifelong avoidance of wheat, barley and rye (WBR) in the daily nutrition. According to the Codex Alimentarius Commission of the Joint Food and Agricultural Organisation and the World Health Organisation of the United Nations, 100 ppm gliadin (10 mg gliadin/100 g dry weight) is the maximum allowed in food labelled as ‹gluten-free›. Gluten free foods are thus the foods that does not contains an ingredient from any species of wheat, barley, rye and crossbred of these grains (prohibited grains). The hydrolysis of gluten protein release longer peptides, which causes damage to hair like projections of small intestine and inte rferes with the ability to absorb basic nutrients caused by auto-immune response. Various gluten free products available in the market include gluten free breads, gluten free biscuits, gluten free atta, gluten free pasta, gluten free pan cakes and gluten free noodles. Keywords: Gluten, wheat, celiac disease and nutrition and health DP-21

POSTER Economically viable approaches for advancement in agriculture DEHDRATION OF BEETROOT IN FLUIDIZED BED DRYER Yashwant Kumar, 2M A Khan, 1Soumitra Tiwari, 1Rewa Kumari and 1G D Sharma Department of Food Processing and Technology, Bilaspur University, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, India 2 Deptt. of PHET, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India E-mail : [email protected] 1

1

Abstract

The experiments were conducted to study the fluidized bed drying system, during beetroots (Beta vulgaris L.) drying. All experiments were performed at the Department of Post Harvest Engineering and Technology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India. The setup was provisioned for air heating and air velocity control system. A drying chamber of circular cross section fabricated from Perspex pipe was prepared. A perforated Perspex plate, having an open area of about 50 % of the base plate, was fitted in the bottom of drying chamber. This was used to accommodate the food material to be dried. The air velocity and the temperature distributions across the container were found to be uniform. Inlet air temperatures selected were 60 °C, 67.50 °C & 75 °C and inlet air velocities were 9 m/s, 10.50 m/s & 12 m/s. Henderson & Pabis and Page’s model of dried beetroots were analyzed by using Sigma-plot. Page’s model showed a good fit to experimental data with high value of R² ranging from 0.9986 to 0.9998. Key-words: Fluidized bed drying, drying, beetroot, beta vulgaris and dehydration.

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COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF AMBIENT AND CRYOGROUND CORIANDER POWDER Sakshi1, S. Balasubramanian2, B. S. Khatkar3 Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering & Technology, Longowal-148106, Punjab 2 Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering- Regional Centre, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu- 641 003, India 3 Guru Jambeshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar -125001,Haryana 1

Abstract

The present study was carried out to measure the physical properties viz. bulk density, true density, porosity and color value of ambient and cryoground coriander powder. The effects of grinding temperature (ambient and cryoground) on the properties of both varieties RCR-41 and ACR-1 were studied individually. Bulk density and true density were found to be higher for cryoground coriander powder of both the varieties, however, porosity was found to be higher for coriander powder ground at ambient condition. Higher L, a, b color values were observed for cryoground coriander powder. Statistical analysis showed that physical properties viz. bulk density, true density, porosity and color value of ambient and cryoground coriander powder varied significantly at 1% level of significance. DP-23

DEVELOPMENT OF THE TECHNOLOGY FOR THE PRODUCTION OF DRIED ONION SLICES WITH IMPROVE QUALITY Poonam Aggarwal, Hradesh Rajput*, Amarjeet Kaur and Davinder jeet Kaur Dept of Food Science & Technology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004, Punjab Email : [email protected]

Abstract

Punjab white variety was used for the production of dried onion slices. Onion slices were dried using different drying methods, Mechanical drying (at 50 ± 5oC for 6-8 hrs), Solar drying (at 40 – 45oC for 2 days), Fan drying (at room temperature for 5 days) and Freeze drying (at -30oC for 68- 72 hours).The dried onion slices were analyzed and compared for their quality attributes such as moisture content, titratable acidity, total and reducing sugars, color values, ascorbic acid, total phenols and antioxidant activity. Among the various drying techniques tested, freeze drying gave best quality of onion slices. Freeze drying was found to be the best as the moisture content was minimum (7.03%) after freeze drying along with highest retention of acidity (3.19%), total sugars (42.87%) and reducing sugars (24.56%). The freeze dried sample was the lightest, as evident by highest L value (85.99), among the samples dried by different techniques. The phytochemicals (ascorbic acid and total phenols 25.29 mg /100gm and 11.17%) and antioxidant activity (3820.32% activity /100 gm of sample) were also found to be highest in freeze dried samples. Key Words: Onion, slices, drying and phytochemicals.

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A comparative analysis of chickpea and green pea based on chemical composition, functional properties and pasting properties Sajad Ahmad Wani*, Amir Gull, Pradyuman Kumar Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology, Longowal 148106 (India) *E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

The objective of this work was to investigate the proximate composition, pasting properties and some selected functional properties of flour from legumes such as chickpea and dried green pea. The proximate analysis showed that there is no significant difference in chickpea flour and dried green pea flour composition, except that of crude fat and fiber. The crude fat of chickpea flour shows a significant (p < 0.05) increase from that of dried green pea flour and crude fiber of dried green pea flour shows significant (p < 0.05) increase than chickpea. The result of functional properties showed a non significant difference of both the selected legumes. Pasting properties of both the flour of legumes were significantly different (P < 0.05). Chickpea flour had a lower pasting temperatures and the peak, final, and setback viscosities than dried green pea flour. These characteristics seem to be related to the increased fat content of chickpea flour than green pea flour. Key Words: chickpea, green pea, proximate, functional and pasting. DP-25

Fenugreek leaf powder: An approach to develop nutraceutical rich shelf stable biomaterial Ankita and K. Prasad* Department of Food Engineering and Technology, S. L. I. E. T., Longowal - 148106 * Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenumgraecum) is an important green leafy vegetable. Seeds as well as leaves of fenugreek are used as one of the major ingredients in Indian cousin due to is nutritional, therapeutic and pharmaceutical properties. The fenugreek leaves were made shelf stable using the process of dehydration in a cabinet drier maintained at different isothermal temperature in the range of 50 - 800C with an interval of 100C. Effect of pre treatment, dehydration temperature and fractionation of developed dehydrated leaf powder was assessed. The characteristics of dehydrated powder show that the developed powder could find its use in several foods preparations. Addition of fenugreek powder will not only enrich the characteristics of food but also help to incorporate the functionality aspects and the food becomes also suitable for the persons suffering from disorders like diabetes. Physico-chemical and optical parameters as affected by the pre treatments, dehydration temperature and powdered fractions were reported for Trigonella foenumgraecum powder. The dehydration process was found temperature dependent and increase in air temperature reduced the drying time for the fenugreek leaves up till 700C without affecting the major quality characteristics of final powder to be used as functional ingredient in various aspects in the food. The approach may help the farmers to adopt the process in order to prevent the post harvest wastage and improve their economic status through the production and marketing of this valuable shelf stable biomaterial. Keywords: Fenugreek, Trigonella, dehydration, medicinal uses, functional properties

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Fortification and fermentation of grape juice with probiotic Lactobacilli Gurleen Kaur1*, Dr. Ravinder Nagpal2, Ms. Seema Ahuja Shaheed Udham Singh College of Research & Technology, Tangori 140 306, Mohali, Punjab, India.

Abstract

Probiotics are live microbial feed supplements that have beneficial effects on the host by improving its intestinal microbial balance. In present study, an attempt was made to prospect the fortification and fermentation of grape juice with probiotic Lactobacilli. All the three cultures i.e. L. acidophilus, L. plantarum and L. casei survived at pH 5.5 as well at pH 4.5 for upto 3 hr, while L. plantarum and L. casei survived for 2 hr only. Only L. acidophilus was able to tolerate pH 2.5 for upto 1 hr. The initial sugar content of grape juice was 197.2mg/dl, which was reduced to 175, 179 and 184mg/dl by L. acidophilus, L. plantarum and L. casei, respectively, after 72 hr incubation. It was observed that after 72 hr incubation, the original pH 4.7 was reduced upto 3.5, 3.9 and 4.1 by L. acidophilus, L. plantarum and L. casei. Isolates L. acidophilus, L. plantarum and L. casei, were able to increase acidity from 0.38% at 0 hr to 0.58%, 0.53% and 0.45%, respectively, after 72 hr incubation. The initial cell count in juice sample was 2.40×107, 2.41×107 and 2.47×107 cfu/ ml and after 72 hr of incubation, it was increased upto 2.89×107, 2.84×107 and 2.80×107 cfu/ml for L. acidophilus, L. plantarum and L. casei respectively. During refrigerated storage of upto 30 days, the viable counts of L. acidophilus decreased from 2.89×107 to 2×107 cfu/ml , L. plantarum counts decreased from 2.84×107 to 1×107 cfu/ml and L. casei counts decreased from 2.8×107 to 0.9×107 cfu/ml. Supplementation of juice with inulin decreased the generation time from 53 min. to 50 min. in case of L. acidophilus, 54 min. to 50 min. for L. plantarum and for L. casei it was found to be decreased from 55 min. to 50 min. In present study, it can be advocated that fruit juices could be exploited as a carrier for the fermentation of probiotic lactic acid bacteria, and is beneficial for human health. DP-27

Impact of dairy industry level corruption on the food security of households in India Subrat Kumar Dash*1, Piyusha Bhainsare2 Ph.D. Scholar (Veterinary Biochemistry),Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Science,Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), Ludhiana- 141 004 (Punjab), India. 2 M.V.Sc. Scholar(Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine), Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science,Chhattisgarh KamdhenuVishwaVidyalaya (CGKV), Durg (Chhattisgarh), India *Presenting author: e. mail: [email protected] Co-author: e. mail: [email protected]

1

Abstract

Effect of corruption at dairy farm level on the food security of households in India was investigated in the present study. A survey was conducted to collect the data from 256 dairy farmers and 32 dairy industries in selected states of India. Econometric results suggested that calorie consumption of households was adversely affected by the corruption level. Impact of corruption was higher for low expenditure households relative to high expenditure households. High expenditure households exhibit more flexibility in terms of adjusting their budgets thus, able to cover the cost of corruption without compensating their dairy food consumption. However, due to limited flexibility among low expenditure households, they are forced to compromise on their dairy food budget. Our study suggests that better education of dairy farmers, proper management of dairy industries, product development and human resources positively contribute to the nation’s food security and thus affects the consumption rate of households.

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DETECTION OF HEAVY METALS IN VEGETABLES ON ATOMIC ABSORPTION SPECTROPHOTOMETER (AAS) Rubaljot Kooner* and W S Dhillon Punjab Horticultural Postharvest Technology Centre, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004 *Email: [email protected]

Abstract

Food safety is a major concern worldwide. Accumulation of heavy metals is a potential risk to living systems due to their uptake by plants and subsequent introduction into the food chain. We should have some standardized method to calculate the concentrations of these heavy metals in our food stuffs. Vegetables are an integral part of our diet. There are several reports revealing contamination of vegetables with heavy metals. The present study was planned to standardize methodology for estimation of heavy metals like Hg, Cd, Cr, Ar, Pb in locally available vegetables by atomic absorption spectrometry. The sample was prepared in microwave digestion system (MDS 3000). For this, the vegetables collected from different sites of Ludhiana city, Punjab, were blended and then digested with nitric acid in MDS. The digestion process renders the sample colourless and carbon free. The concentration of heavy metals in the digested samples was estimated by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS-800). The AAS consist of a light source, a sample compartment and a detector. Light from a source is directed through the sample to a detector. The source of light is a lamp whose cathode is composed of the element being measured. Each element requires a different lamp. The quantitative analysis can be achieved by measuring the absorbance of a series of solutions of known concentration. A calibration curve and the equation for the line can be used to determine unknown concentration based on its absorbance. This study helps to generate data on heavy metal pollution in and around Ludhiana city, Punjab and the associated risk assessment for consumer’s exposure to heavy metals. Key words: Vegetables, Pollution, Digestion, Heavy metals, Atomic absorption spectrophotometer. DP-29

ECONOMIC AND REMEDIAL USES OF MEDICINAL PLANTS Harpal Singh, Bhupender Dutt* Wineet Chawla and Jagsir Singh Department of Agriculture, BFGI, Deon, Bathinda- Punjab *Department of Forest Products, Dr YS Parmar UHF, Nauni Solan (HP) E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

Medicinal plants constitute a very important bioresource in India because it has one of the richest plant based ethnomedical traditions in the world. The global market for medicinal plants and herbal medicines is estimated to be worth US $80 billion a year. Use of botanicals especially medicinal plants as therapeutic agents has a very old history and according to World Health Organization, about 80% of the human populations use these. International export trade in medicinal plants from India is 32600 tonns a year. The demand for medicinal plants has increased globally due to the resurgence of interest in herbal medicine standardized plant extract, culinary herbs natural therapeutic essential oil and phytopharmaceuticals. Most of the demand is being met through collection of large quantities of these plant species and their parts from wild populations. The pharmaceutical industries procure raw materials of valuable species from its natural habitats and as a result existing their populations are diminishing day by day. To bridge the gap the National Medicinal Plant Board, Government of India, New Delhi, has enlisted 32 medicinal species prioritized for commercial cultivation in the country. Although extraction of valuable non - timber forest produce from forest is done without any prior authentication and permission but these methods of extraction employed are almost crude and unscientific. As a consequence, the rates of exploitation may exceed those of local natural regeneration. There is thus an urgent need to develop and implement regeneration/conservation strategies for over exploited medicinal plant species. Keywords: Medicinal plants, Herbs, Market, Demand

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Performance of Indian Agriculture and Food Security in India *Munish Kumar & **Satinder Singh Research Scholar (Ph.D), Jawahar Lal Nehru University, New Delhi E-mail: [email protected]. Research Scholar (Mphil), Central University of Punajb, Bathinda E-mail : [email protected].

Abstract

Since independence agriculture is a critical sector of the Indian economy which more than 50% to the overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 1950 and more than 60% of population directly dependent on agriculture. But, now these days its share in total GDP declined to 30% in 1990-91 to less than 13% 2012-13, a trend that is expected in the development process of any economy, agriculture yet forms the backbone of development. Agriculture Production is a source of livelihood and food security for a vast majority of low income, poor and vulnerable sections of society. Thus, the good performance of this sector has greater significance in providing food to the vulnerable section. India is still having the largest number of poor and malnourished people in the world, a higher priority to agriculture will achieve the goals of reducing poverty and malnutrition as well as of inclusive growth. The overall growth of the GDP revealed that the growth rate is not pro poor growth rate and it is evident from the rate of poverty reduction was less during the post as compared to pre reform period. The Indian economy from last five year plan grow at average 8% and the target of agriculture growth rate is 4% this sector grow at very low rate 1.2%. Therefore, there is much scope for agriculture and allied activities to grow at significant rate which provide food security to the total population of the country. The declining share of agriculture to GDP and the continuing high pressure of population on agriculture is a major challenge to food security in India. To ensure food security there will be more focus on the storage capacity and also ensure the farmers security because large numbers of farmers committed suicide and quit the agriculture in many states of India. Although government of india and states has started lot of programme (Financial Inclusion, Subsidy on Agriculture Inputs and Pesticides) which secure the farmers from insecurity in agriculture. The more secure a farmer, the more is the agriculture production which ultimately ensures food security for all.1 The study will be based on the secondary data and data will be collected from various government and semi government agencies such as (Ministry of Agriculture, RBI, Indiastat.com, NSSO Etc.). The study will be also analysis the relationship between the agriculture growth rate and poverty and food inflation because food inflation seriously hit the food security of poor people. DP-31

Saffron cultivation in Kashmir valley - myth and realities Aabid M. Rather, Irshad A. Nawchoo and Aijaz H Ganie Economic Botany and Reproductive biology Research Laboratory University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India-190006 E-mail : [email protected]; [email protected]

Abstract

The state of Jammu and Kashmir is the place where Saffron (Crocus sativusL.) is predominately cultivated in India. In fact Kashmir is considered to be one of the three (Iran, Spain and India) largest cultivating places of Saffron all over the world. Now apart from Pampore, Saffron is cultivated in most parts of Budgam, some parts of the district Srinagar and Anantnag as well. The present study also revealed that Saffron can be cultivated in Apple (Malus domestica Borkh), Pear (Pyrus communis L.)and Almond (Prunus amygdalus Batsch.) orchids as mixed crop and also under Populus (Populus alba L. ) and Walnut (Juglans regia L.) trees, Walnut is considered to be one of the strong allelopathic plant species which does not allow the other plant species to grow nearby but Saffron grows successfully under walnut trees. One of the interesting observations of present study was the highly asynchronous and temporally isolated vegetative and flowering/fruiting phases between Saffron and other fruit trees (Apple, Almond, Walnut etc.) which help the farmers to attend both these crops without

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” any problem and also both the plant species utilize the resources available without any competition because when Saffron attains its vegetative phase the other fruit trees are in dormant phase, and at the time of fruiting phases of Apples, Walnuts and Almonds, Saffron remains in quiescent phase. The prized plant species (Saffron) has been cultivated in plain, undulated lands, slopes and where not. The present investigation revealed that type of soil and intensity of light is not important for successful growth of this plant species. It has been observed during the present study that under shade the plants of Saffron flowers early and also yield is more as compared to open fields; the only problem is that age of corm is less under shade as compared open sunny conditions. After critical examination we found that quantitatively there is no difference in the yield of Saffron in Pampore and other parts of the valley. The saffron is also being cultivated in stony at Khrew area of Kashmir valley. Our study has shown that there is no special habitat for Saffron cultivation in Kashmir valley and in our opinion it would have been better if some areas of Baramulla e.g. Kreer Wuder from Sheikhpora to Kharpora , Poto-shahi area of Bandipora, Mutand karevas of Anantnag from Krangsoo to Kanganhal-Achabal and some areas of Marwaha- Kishtiwar has also been brought under Saffron cultivation. Saffron is characterized by cool and cold winters and grows well in the areas where there are winter chilling and warm dry summers. Therefore, keeping in view the present field experience we are of the opinion that Saffron cultivation might be possible in some parts of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand as well. Key words: Habitat specification; Mixed crop; shade; production DP-32

Quinoa: A Climate Resilient Grain Crop for Changing Climate Shahzad M.A. Basra, Irfan Afzal, Shahid Iqbal and Muhammd Sohail Saddiq Department of Crop physiology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

Humanity is facing one of the most important global environmental challenges in the form of “climate change” which drastically effected natural ecosystems food production, fresh water supply, heath etc. The harmful outcomes of climate change are extremes weather events like flood, drought, storms, frost, cyclones and soil salinization. Possible remedies for climate-proof cropping systems are to improve existing cropping by developing new technologies and use of new genetic material. Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.), a pseudo cereal, is a new introduction in Pakistan. Crop is abiotic stress tolerant and low input requiring with grains of superior nutritional profile as compared to common cereals. Quinoa is originated from area of harsh climatic and poor soils of South America; the plant had adapted accordingly to cope with frequent frost, drought, hail and wind. Quinoa is facultative halophytic crop plant which can tolerate salinity level of sea (50 dS m-2). It is imperative to evaluate production potential of halophytic plants under changing climate to be cultivated in arid and semi-arid areas, where most of the crop plant unable to grow as soil salinization is increasing and fresh water resources are diminishing. Quinoa has been acclimatized under central and south Punjab conditions successfully and need to be tested under diverse agro-ecological zones of the country. DP-33

Moringa Leaf Extract: A very effective natural crop growth enhancer Shahzad Maqsood Ahmed Basra, Irfan Afzal and Hafeez-ur-Rehman Department of Crop Physiology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Crop plants have to face more than one abiotic stress in their life cycle due to climate change. Development of tolerant varieties is a way to cope abiotic stresses. The performance of crop plants under such stresses can be enhanced by the exogenous application of growth promoting substances. Moringa oleifera L. is a rich natural source zeatin (a cytokinin),

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International Conference on “Crop Productivity and Sustainability - Shaping the Future” ascorbate, phenolics and minerals like Ca, K, Fe etc. Its leaf extract makes it an excellent growth enhancer. This paper focuses the role of moringa leaf extract (MLE) as natural plant growth enhancer when applied exogenously as seed priming or foliar agent in cereals i.e. wheat, rice and maize and horticultural crops i.e. pea under normal and stressful environments. DP-34

Proximate composition and nutritional quality of different parts of wildly grown Capparis spinosa Tehseen Gull*, Bushra Sultana, Ijaz Ahmed, Amir Jamil Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan E-mail : [email protected]

Abstract

The present research study was conducted to investigate the proximate analysis and mineral contents in different parts of Capparis spinosa i.e., stem bark, shoot, fruit, root and flower. The samples were collected from the Cholistan desert of Pakistan in different seasons i.e., April and September. It was observed that maximum crude protein, true protein and non-nitrogenous protein were present in fruits of C. spinosa in September followed by April. Moreover, the least neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber were also found in its fruits. Additionally, the flowers exhibited maximum ash contents in the present investigation in April. The fruits were also found rich in Ca, K, Na, Zn, Cu, Mn and Fe contents. Heavy metals like Ni, Cd and Co were found in trace amounts in all parts of C. spinosa especially in its edible parts i.e., fruits. The results of this investigation support the selection and harvesting of this species at an appropriate season to avail maximum nutritional benefits both human beings and livestock.

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