041067   NAJAR N A, MANSOOR A (Awadhesh Pratap Singh Univ, Rewa - 486 003, Email: nazirnajar45@gmail.com) : Ethno botanical use, conservation, and livelihood of important medicinal plants grown in the Gulmarg Himalaya region of Jammu and Kashmir (India). Indian J Applied & Pure Bio 2020, 35(1), 33-8.

Medicinal plants form a diverse group of flowering plants comprising approximately 8000 species and these accounts for around 50 percent of all the higher flowering plants of India. A large number of people use different medicinal plants for the treatment of various human and livestock ailments in India. Over one and half million practitioners of the Indian system of medicine in the oral and codified streams use medicinal plants in preventive, promotive and curative applications. This demand had shown a quantum jump in recent years in the supply of plant materials used and treaded across India. Medicinal plants have thus become major sectors of trade and commerce and are significantly contributing to the socio-economic developments of certain developed and developing countries like India. Among various states of India, Jammu and Kashmir harbour great rich biodiversity of economically important medicinal plants because it provides a diverse type of habitats for their growth. The Kashmir Himalayas supports a rich and spectacular biodiversity of great curiosity and promising economic benefits owing to its topographic variations. Keeping in view the significance of the subject, the present study was carried out to document the various aspects of ethno medicinally important plants of Gulmarg Himalayas (Jammu and Kashmir). The present study focuses on ethno medicinal use, conservation, and livelihood of the economically important medicinal plants of Gulmarg hills. It also aims at various essential medicinal products extracting from these medicinal plants from this region. In this study, a large area was studied in Gulmarg hills by questioning local Gujar and bakarwall people (nomad people) about the beneficial use of locally medicinal plants available there and the economic value of these medicinal plants.

2 tables, 11 ref

042870   KUMARI R, KUMARI A, SINGH A K (Botany Dep, B.R. Ambedkar Bihar Univ, Muzaffarpur, Bihar) : Tissue culture study for efficient callus induction from internodal explants of Asparagus racemosus willd an important medicinal herb. Indian J Sci Res 2020, 10(2), 15-20.

Tissue culture study was performed to standardize the technique and select suitable plant growth regulators and their concentrations for efficient callus induction from the nodal explants of Asparagus racemosus willd, an important medicinal herb. Different concentrations of NAA, 2,4-D, BAP and KN were supplemented in MS basal medium in which the nodal explants were inoculated. It was observed that MS + 0.2 mg/l NAA was the best culture condition in which maximum percentage of response 90.36 was obtained. This was followed by the culture conditions that were MS+ 2.0 mg/l where the percentage response was 88.68 %. Similarly, next higher percentage 88.62 was observed in MS+1.0 mg/l BAP + 1.0 mg/l NAA. It was further observed that growth rate was excellent where the percentage response was higher. Second it was noted that the calli had both compact and friable texture and their colour varied from green yellow to brown even where the growth was excellent. It was further noted that, NAA or BAP alone at higher concentration and KN alone at lower concentration when used alone had no response for callusing. However, KN at higher concentration 2.0 mg/l gave the highest percentage of response for callusing. NAA + BAP and NAA + KN at the similar concentrations gave different result. In the MS medium having 1.0 mg/l BAP + 1.0 mg/l NAA the percentage of response was 88.62 while MS + 1.0 mg/l KN + 1.0 mg/l NAA the percentage of response was 62.34 only. Growth rate of the calli also differed in different culture conditions.

1 table, 33 ref

041064   CHAVRE B W (Botany Dep, Arts, Commerce and Science Coll, Nandgaon - 423106, Email: chavrebhagwat@gmail.com) : A Comprehensive Review On Cadaba fruticosa (L.) Druce. Indian J Applied & Pure Bio 2020, 35(1), 7-15.

Cadaba fruticosa commonly called as ‘Kalitaka” or ‘Indian Cadaba’ belongs to family Capparidaceaeis a frequent plant found in deciduous forests of Maharashtra and in the tropical region of Indian sub-continent. The different medicinal uses of the plant are appreciated by Siddha. It is noted that the leaves and roots of the plant are used to cure some urinary complaints. Also it is recommended on, infestation, swelling, Eczema, constipation, gonorrhea and to cure such an other ailments. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also declared the importance of such medicinal plants for public health care in developing nations. It is evident that, plant shows, anti-diabetic, anti-pyretic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cyto-toxic and so many important activities which will be applicable for the invention of novel drugs from the plant.

1 illus, 29 ref

041062   FATIMA A, DUARY B, SINGH V K, KUMAR B (Agronomy Div, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi - 110 012, Email: ayesharahman2507@gmail.com) : Effect of integrated use of competitive cultivars, herbicide and mulch on weed dynamics, weed-control efficiency, weed index and yield of summer sesame (Sesamum indicum). Indian J Agron 2020, 65(2), 238-41.

A field experiment was conducted during the summer (pre-kharif) season of 2016 at Sriniketan, Birbhum, West Bengal, to study the effect of sesame cultivar (Sesamum indicum L.) on weed management by straw mulching along with or without pre-emergence herbicide. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with factorial concept, replicated thrice. The integrated use of cultivar Rama with pendimethalin at 1.0 litre/ha + straw mulching @ 3.5 t/ha resulted in significantly lower weed density and weed dry weight 45 days after sowing (DAS). The same combination recorded higher seed yield (1,496 kg/ha) and stick yield (3,404 kg/ha) which was significantly at par with the combination of cultivar Rama with weed-free check. The application of pendimethalin at 1.0 litre/ha + straw mulching @ 3.5 t/ha resulted in higher weed-control efficiency (98.36 %) and lower weed index (7.89 %). The loss of seed yield of sesame due to weed infestation was to the tune of 70 % and it was comparatively less in ‘Rama’ cultivar (66.7 %) than ‘Tilottoma’ (74.6 %) and ‘Savitri’ cultivar (67.8 %). The cultivar Rama with pendimethalin at 1.0 litre/ha + straw mulching @ 3.5 t/ha was found to be effective in controlling composite weed flora. Thus, this treatment can be the best weed control option for obtaining higher productivity of summer sesame in lateritic belt of West Bengal.

1 table, 11 ref

041061   RAJPUT P, SINGH A K, RAJPUT R K, SINGH A (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Acharya Narendra deva Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh - 224 229, Email: pradeep16041996@gmail.com) : Effect of nitrogen levels on yield and yield attributes of rice (Oryza sativa) grown under different planting geometry. Indian J Agron 2020, 65(2), 235-7.

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season (kharif) 2017 at Kumarganj Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, to study the effects of nitrogen on rice (Oryza sativa L.) grown under different planting geometry. Four planting geometry, viz. 15 cm × 10 cm, 15 cm × 15 cm, 20 cm × 10 cm and 20 cm × 15 cm and 4 nitrogen levels (0, 60, 120 and 180 kg/ha) were tested in a split-plot design, keeping as main and subplots, respectively, with 3 replications. The crop received a total rainfall of 804.9 mm, while the evaporation was 869.7 mm during the entire crop season. The experimental result revealed that different planting geometry and level of nitrogen had a remarkable influence on the yield-attributing characters and yield of rice. Yield-attributing characters, viz. panicle length, panicles/m², grains/panicle and test weight were increased significantly with the increasing level of nitrogen from 0 to 180 kg/ ha. Of the different planting geometry, plant spacing 20 cm × 10 cm resulted in significantly the highest grain yield (5.40 t/ha). The highest grain and straw yields were recorded with the treatment of 20 cm × 10 cm plant spacing and 180 kg N/ha.

1 table, 11 ref

041054   LAL M, YADAV R S, REAGER M L, SHRIRAKESH, KUMAR S (Agronomy Dep, Swani Keshwananda Rajasthan Agricultural Univ, Bikaner, Rajasthan - 334 006, Email: manoharlal00291@gmail.com) : Yield, quality and nutrient status of pearl millet (Cenchrus americanus) as replacement crop after stand failure in sandy soil under different tillage, herbicide and planting delay. Indian J Agron 2020, 65(2), 198-202.

A field experiment was carried out during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2018 and 2019 at Bikaner, Rajasthan, to study the effect of tillage, herbicide and planting delay on nutrient, yield and quality of pearl millet [Cenchrus americanus (L.) Morrone; syn. Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] as replacement crops following pearl millet stand failure in arid Rajasthan. The experiment was laid out in strip-plot design in 3 factors with 24 treatments comprising 4 tillage (T₁: no-tillage; T₂: tillage with disc plough with planking; T3: tillage with cultivator with planking; T4 : tillage with harrow with planking), 2 herbicide (H₀: control; H₁: atrazine 0.5 kg a.i/ha) and 3 planting delay (P₁: 10 days after herbicide application; P₂: 20 days after herbicide application; P3 : 30 days after herbicide application) treatments, times replicated 3 time. The disc plough (T₂) and early planting (10 July) P₁ significantly increased N, P, K, total nutrient uptake, partial nutrient balance (PBN), and nutrient efficiency ratio (NER) than the other treatments. The grain, stover, and crude protein yields of pearl millet were found significantly higher with disc plough and early planting (10 July) treatment compared to other treatments on pooled basis. The interactions were found non-significant between tillage × herbicide × planting delay in yield of pearl millet.

1 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref

041051   SUBRAMANIAN E, AATHITHYAN C, RAGHAVENDRAN V B, VIJAYAKUMAR S (Agronomy Dep, Agricultural Coll and Research Institute, Madurai - 625 104, Email: esubramanian@tnau.ac.in) : Optimization of nitrogen fertilization for aerobic rice (Oryza sativa). Indian J Agron 2020, 65(2), 180-4.

Field experiments were conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2014 and 2015 at Aduthurai, Tamil Nadu, to assess the efficiency of N scheduling and dosage for aerobic rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivation. The soil was clay loam. The experiments were laid out in a split-plot design with 3 replications. The main plot treatments consisted of 4 nitrogen(N) levels and the subplots 6 N split doses. Among the N levels, application of 200 kg N/ha registered higher growth parameters, N uptake and yield attributes. The growth attributes of aerobic rice increased with the increased N dose up to 200 kg N/ha and was comparable with 175 and 150 kg N/ha. The higher grain yield and benefit: cost (B: C) ratio were observed with the application of 175 kg N/ha. Among the split doses, N at 4 splits (1/4 at 10–12 days after emergence + 1/4 at active tillering stage + 1/4 at panicle-initiation stage + 1/4 at flowering) recorded higher growth parameters, yield attributes, grain yield, gross returns, net returns and eventually higher B: C ratio. Achieving higher yield with remunerative B: C ratio, a nitrogen dose of 175 kg N/ha in 4 splits 1/4 at 10–12 days after emergence + 1/4 at active tillering stage + 1/4 at panicle-initiation stage + 1/4 at flowering can be recommended for sustaining the aerobic rice yield.

1 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

041044   GUPTA M, BHARAT R, KOUR S, KACHROO D (Agronomy Dep, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, Chatha Jammu and Kashmir - 180 009, Email: meenakg13@gmail.com) : Effect of mixed farming on farm productivity and income in Kandi areas of North-Western plains. Indian J Agron 2020, 65(2), 144-50.

An on-farm study was carried out during the rainy season (kharif) of 2015 to the winter season (rabi) of 2017– 18 at Samba District of Jammu region to assess the effect of mixed farming production systems on the farm productivity and income. The study indicated enhanced growth of citrus (Citrus sp.) along with wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) grown as intercrops. The increase in fruit yield of citrus after interventions was recorded to the tune of 22, 23 and 24 % during first, second and third year of study, respectively, over that before the study. Among all the production systems, fruit yield increased significantly owing to intercrops and it was the maximum (4.92 t/ha) with the citrus associated with the intercropping of wheat and Indian mustard during rabi 2017–18. The highest benefit: cost ratio (6.04) was obtained with citrus trees. Maize (Zea mays L.)– wheat–fruit–goat was noticed highly profitable production system which fetched highest net returns of `210,327.0 and system profitability of `576/ha/day followed by pearlmillet (Cenchrus americanus)–wheat–fruit–goat system. The maximum employment generation (146 days) was recorded with maize–wheat–fruit–goat followed by pearlmillet–wheat–fruit–goat (125 days) production systems.

4 illus, 4 tables, 9 ref

041037   OBEROI H K, PANDOVE G, KAUR A (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana, Punjab - 141 004, Email: harpreetoberoi@pau.edu) : Effect of pre-sowing seed inoculation with liquid biofertilizers on fodder yield and quality of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor). Indian J Agron 2020, 65(1), 100-6.

An experiment was carried out during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2016 and 2017 at 2 locations of Punjab (Ludhiana and Bathinda), to study the effect of N-fixer (Azotobacter species) and P-solubilizers (Sphingobacterium species, Burkholderia species and Streptomyces badius) inoculations and their interactions, in the presence of recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) on ‘SL 44’ single-cut forage sorghum [Sorghum bicolour (L.) Moench]. A total of 9 liquid microbial inoculant combinations were used as seed treatment before sowing. All the microbial treatments along with chemical fertilization resulted in non-significant numeric increase in yield and growth of sorghum at both the locations in 2 consecutive years. The dual inoculation, i.e. Azotobacter species + Burkholderia species along with RDF resulted in 21.5 % and 16.8 % percent increase in crude protein (CP) and in-vitro dry-matter digestibility (IVDMD) over the control, observed from 2 locations pooled mean respectively. Similar combination of biofertilizer with recommended dose of fertilizer resulted in lower acid detergent fibre (ADF) and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) content of 40.40 % and 53.53 % respectively. The hydrocyanic acid (HCN) production was also noticed to be lowered down with the use of liquid dual inoculum of Azotobacter species + Burkholderia species. Green fodder yield (GFY) had positive significant correlation with all yield, growth and quality parameters, whereas negative correlation with HCN (–0.09), ADF (–0.34) and NDF (–0.18). Dry-fodder yield (DFY) exhibited the highest significant correlation coefficient with IVDMD (0.92) followed by CP (0.71). The results of correlation also indicated that the plant height should be given due importance as it showed significant correlation with dry-fodder yield. Therefore, there was synergetic effect of nitrogen-fixing and phosphate-solubilizing microbial inoculants on fodder quality improvement of sorghum.

3 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

041035   KAUR H, SARDANA V, SHARMA P (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana, Punjab - 141 004, Email: puneet.hmander@gmail.com) : Optimizing sowing time of Spanish bunch groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) cultivars for spring-summer season in North-West India. Indian J Agron 2020, 65(1), 88-93.

A field experiment was conducted during the spring-summer seasons of 2018 and 2019 at Ludhiana, Punjab, to study the performance of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) cultivars under different sowing dates. The experiment was laid out in 3 replications in a split-plot design with 4 sowing dates (25 February, 10 March, 25 March and 10 April) in main plots and 4 cultivars, viz. ‘SG 99’, ‘TG 37A’, ‘TAG 24’ and ‘J 87’ in subplots. The crop sown on 25 February took 6, 10 and 12 days more for emergence (17 days) and 11, 20 and 25 days more for maturity (133 days) than that sown on 10 March, 25 March and 10 April sowing dates, respectively. The highest pod yield (5.61 t/ ha) was obtained from 10 March and oil yield (1.88 t/ha) from 25 February sowing date, whereas 10 April sowing resulted in the lowest pod yield (4.78 t/ha) and oil yield (1.43 t/ha). Gross returns, net returns and benefit: cost (B : C) ratio were the highest from 10 March-sown crop. Effect of sowing dates on yield attributes was variable. Cultivar ‘J 87’ gave the highest pod yield (5.78 t/ha), oil yield (1.96 t/ha), haulm yield (8.51 t/ha), resulting in higher gross returns and net returns than the other cultivars. ‘TG 37A’ gave higher pod yield than ‘SG 99’ and ‘TAG 24’ and the highest B : C ratio. Cultivar ‘J 87’ sown on 25 February gave significantly higher pod yield (6.73 t/ha) and oil yield (2.71 t/ha) than the other sowing dates. The highest pod and oil yields were recorded by ‘SG 99’ when sown on 25 February; by ‘TG 37A’ when sown on 25 March and by ‘TAG 24’ when sown on 10 March sowing date.

3 tables, 13 ref

041034   WALIA S S, SINGH G, SAINI K S (Agronomy Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana, Punjab - 141 004, Email: waliass@pau.edu) : Effect of integrated nutrient management on microclimatic environment, quality and yield of baby corn (Zea mays) in North-Western India. Indian J Agron 2020, 65(1), 83-7.

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season of 2013 and 2014 on sandy-loam soil of Ludhiana, Punjab, to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on yield and quality of baby corn (Zea mays L.). The maximum photosynthetically active radiation interception was recorded 60 days after sowing in plants receiving NP-K @ 75-15-11.3 kg/ha through chemical fertilizer, which was statistically at par with 15 kg N/ha through FYM + 60 kg N/ha. The lowest soil and canopy temperature was recorded in N-P-K @ 75-15-11.3 kg/ha 30 days after sowing. The maximum baby corn yield was recorded in N-P-K @ 75-15-11.3 kg/ha which was statistically at par with 15 kg N/ha (FYM) + 60 kg N/ha and N-P-K @ 60-12-6 kg/ha. The protein content was significantly higher in plants received N-P-K @ 75-15-11.3 kg/ha, while sugar content was higher in plants received 30 kg N/ha through FYM + 30 kg N/ha through fertilizer than the other treatments. The starch, crude fibre, cob texture, total soluble solid and total solids were not significantly affected by both chemical and integrated nutrient management treatments.

4 tables, 10 ref

041033   UMESH M R, BASAVANNEPPA M A, SHIVAKUMAR, MALLESH, CHITTAPUR B M, AJAYAKUMAR M Y, DESAI B K, ANANDA N (Agronomy Div, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Raichur, Karnataka - 584 104, Email: mrumeshagri@gmail.com) : Optimization of nitrogenous fertilizers using leaf-colour chart for irrigated hybrid maize (Zea mays) grown in Vertisol of sub-tropical India. Indian J Agron 2020, 65(1), 77-82.

A field experiment was conducted at Raichur, Karnataka, India, during the rainy seasons of 2016 and 2017, to study the response of hybrid maize leaf-colour chart (LCC) to N and evaluate threshold to enhance crop yields, Nuse efficiency (NUE) by altering splits as per crop need guided by LCC. Treatments included LCC thresholds of 1, 2, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5 and 6 compared with fixed splits at definite growth stages and absolute control. Application of 30 kg N/ha, whenever greenness of first fully opened leaf from the top was less than shade of the thresholds on the LCC. Hybrid maize showed significant response to application of N up to 120 kg N/ha in 3 equal split doses. Beyond this level, fertilizer NUE was significantly reduced. The LCC < 5 proved better than other LCC shades for guiding real-time N management and achieving higher NUE. Application of 80–110 kg N/ha using threshold LCC < 4.5 inclusive of 62.5 kg N/ha basal resulted in higher grain yield of maize which was at par with the application of 150 kg N/ha applied in 3 equal split doses.

3 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref

041032   RAY K, BANERJEE H, BANDOPADHYAY P (Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia, West Bengal - 741 252, Email: krishnenduray.bckv@gmail.com) : Effect of cultivars and levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium on growth, yield and nutrient uptake of maize (Zea mays) hybrids. Indian J Agron 2020, 65(1), 68-76.

A field study was conducted during the winter season of 2013–14 and 2014–15 at farmer’s field, Gayeshpur, Nadia, West Bengal, to evaluate the performance of maize (Zea mays L.) as influenced by cultivars and levels of NPK. The experimental soil was clay in texture and neutral in reaction, having low available N, high available P and medium available K. The experiment was laid out in a strip-plot design with 3 maize hybrids (‘P 3522’, ‘P 3396’ and ‘Rajkumar’) in vertical strip and 9 NPK levels [50 % recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), 75 % RDF, RDF (200 kg N, 60 kg P and 60 kg K/ha), 125 % RDF, 150 % RDF, 100 % PK, 100 % NK, 100 % NP and control (zeroNPK)] in horizontal strip, replicated thrice. Maize hybrid ‘P 3396’ recorded better cob characteristics (cob length, cob girth and cob weight) and test weight, while other yield attributes (number of cobs/plant, number of grain rows and grains/cob) were higher in ‘P 3522’. Across cultivars, 125 % RDF application resulted in significant increase in yield attributes over the control. The cultivar ‘P 3396’ recorded second best yield (grain and stover) after ‘P 3522’. Application of 125 % RDF resulted in the maximum grain and stover yield with 124.5 and 91.2 % increase over the control respectively. Total P and K uptake increased up to 125 % RDF; however, total N uptake increased till 150 % RDF application. Grain yield reduction, in comparison with RDF plots, was estimated to be 43.90 % due to N omission, 16.76 % due to P omission, and 26.94 % due to K omission. Net returns and benefit: cost ratio continued to increase till 125 % NPK, and decreased further with addition of NPK (150 %).

5 tables, 19 ref

041031   KALHAPURE A, SINGH V P, KUMAR R, PANDEY D S, SINGH S (Govind Ballabh Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand - 263 145, Email: aniketmpkv@gmail.com) : Influence of tillage and nutrient management on productivity and profitability of wheat (Triticum aestivum). Indian J Agron 2020, 65(1), 61-7.

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) seasons of 2012–13 to 2015–16 at Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, to study the effects of tillage and nutrient management on performance of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The experiment was laid out in a strip-plot design with 3 tillage treatments, conventional tillage (CT) without chiseling, chiseling followed by CT and chiseling followed by rotavator) and 3 nutrient-management options [100 % recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), combined application of 100 % RDF along with FYM @ 15 tonnes/ha and 125 % RDF combined with FYM). Results showed that, inclusion of chiseling either before disk harrowing or rotavator in tillage along with application of 125 % RDF of nutrients and FYM efficiently improved the soil properties, viz. decrease in bulk density (by 0.14 Mg/m³), penetration resistance (by 1.05 MPa) and pH (by 0.15) and increase in infiltration rate (by 0.8 cm/h), organic carbon (by 0.06 %), available P₂O₅ and K₂O content (by 3.2 kg/ha and 45.8 kg/ha and dehydrogenage activity (by 116 units) compared with the initial status. This tillage and nutrient management combination resulted in superior growth attributes, viz. plant height, dry-matter, leaf-area index (LAI), crop-growth rate (CGR), leaf chlorophyll content, tillering along with higher grain yield (5.4 t/ha). Similarly, treatments 100 % RDF + FYM and 125 % RDF + FYM recorded 114 and 128 % higher grain yield, respectively, over application of only RDF.

6 tables, 22 ref

041030   DHALIWAL L K, BUTTAR G S, KINGRA P K, KAUR S (Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana, Punjab - 141 004, Email: dhaliwal1969@pau.edu) : Effect of sowing time, planting methods and irrigation scheduling on yield response, water and radiation-use efficiencies of wheat (Triticum aestivum) in Punjab, India. Indian J Agron 2020, 65(1), 53-60.

A field experiment was conducted during the winter season (rabi) of 2016–17 and 2017–18 at Ludhiana, Punjab, to evaluate the photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) interception, yield response, water and radiationuse efficiencies of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in response to sowing time, planting methods and irrigation treatments. Wheat variety ‘WH 1105’ was sown on 2 dates (10 and 30 November) under 2 planting methods (flat planting and bed planting) and 3 irrigation treatments (I₁, 3 post-sowing irrigations at crown-root initiation (CRI), flag-leaf emergence and soft dough stages; I₂, I₁+ 4^th irrigation during the last week of March; and I₃, recommended 4 post-sowing irrigations) with 4 replications. Crop sown on 10 November under bed planting with I₂ irrigation treatment had the maximum dry matter accumulation, leaf area index, number of effective tillers, ear length, grains/ ear and 1,000-grain weight as compared to the other treatments. The PAR interception was also higher in 10 November sowing under bed planting in I₂ irrigation treatment, which had direct effect on radiation-use efficiency (RUE) of the crop. Water-use efficiency (WUE) was higher (12.5 and 11.4 kg/ha/mm) under I₁ treatment followed by I₃ treatment (12.3 and 10.6 kg/ha/mm) and the lowest in I₂ , treatment (10.5 and 9.3 kg/ha/mm). The grain yield, WUE and RUE were higher by 5–10, 10–15 and 1–5 %, respectively under bed planting compared to flat planting during both the seasons. Significant and positive correlation (r) of grain yield with yield-attributing characters, viz. no. of effective tillers (0.71), grains/ear (0.76), ear length (0.74), 1,000-grain weight (0.65), water (0.76) and RUE (0.69) were observed with pooled analysis.

4 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

041029   GOSWAMI S, MONDAL R, PUSTE A M, SARKAR S, BANERJEE H, JANA K (Agronomy Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia, West Bengal - 741 252, Email: ampustebckv2014@gmail.com) : Influence of irrigation and tillage management on growth, yield and water-use efficiency of wheat (Triticum aestivum) in Gangetic plains in West Bengal. Indian J Agron 2020, 65(1), 47-52.

A field experiment was carried out during the winter seasons of 2016–17 and 2017–18 at Gayeshpur, Nadia (West Bengal) in the Gangetic alluvial soil, to assess the impact of irrigation and tillage-management practices on growth attributes, yield components, yield and water-use efficiency of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cv. ‘UP 262’ Results revealed that increase in irrigation frequency from irrigation water : cumulative pan evaporation (IW : CPE) 0.4 to 1.0 significantly promoted growth parameters, and 6 irrigations at 16–17 days interval (IW : CPE ratio of 1.0) was found to be superior. Growth parameters were significantly higher under conventional tillage over minimum tillage. The plants receiving 6 irrigations (IW : CPE 1.0) recorded the highest consumptive use (CU), while the highest consumptive-use efficiency (CUE) was obtained with the plants receiving 5 irrigations. The maximum number of spikes/m², spike length and number of filled grains/spike were found in plants irrigated 6 times (IW : CPE 1.0) at an interval of 16–17 days. Maximum wheat grain and straw yield were obtained with 6 irrigations, closely followed by those obtained with 5 irrigations (IW : CPE 0.8). Tillage practices showed significant variation in the number of spikes/m² and it was maximum with crops grown under conventional tillage. Both grain and straw yields were significantly higher for plants grown under conventional tillage than those obtained under the minimum tillage. The gross returns, net returns and benefit: cost ratio were maximum when the crop received 6 irrigations under conventional tillage management. Hence, 6 irrigations under conventional tillage could be more effective in augmenting wheat yield, CUE and economics in the Gangetic plains of West Bengal.

1 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

041025   NAROLIA R S, SINGH P, RAM B, DHAKAR R R, MEENA H (Agriculture Univ, Kota, Rajasthan - 324 001, Email: narolia2007@gmail.com) : Effect of irrigation schedule, residue incorporation and nutrient management on system productivity and profitability of soybean (Glycine max)–wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system in Vertisols of Rajasthan. Indian J Agron 2020, 65(1), 17-24.

A 3-year field experiment was carried out at Kota, Rajasthan during 2015–16 to 2017–18, to study the effect of irrigation schedule, residue incorporation and nutrient management on system productivity and profitability of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]–wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cropping system in Vertisols of Rajasthan. The treatments consisted of 24 combinations of 2 irrigation schedules in soybean, viz. 1 irrigation at flowering stage and 2 irrigations at flowering and other pod-development stages -in main plots; 4 wheat residue-management practices, viz. sowing of soybean after wheat-residue burning, wheat-residue incorporation without irrigation, residue incorporation with irrigation and application of urea @ 25 kg/ha and residue incorporation with irrigation and application of urea @ 25 kg/ha + cellulolytic microbes @ 2.0 kg/ha in subplots; and 3 nutrient-management practices, viz. 75 % recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF), 100 % RDF (20 kg N, 40 kg P₂O₅, 40 kg K₂O/ha) and 125 % RDF in subsubplots. The experiment was laid out in a split split-plot design with 3 replications. Wheat crop was sown every year with the adoption of recommended package of practices. Pooled data of 3 years revealed that 2 irrigations at flowering and other at pod development stages-in soybean crop significantly increased dry-matter production, unitarea efficiency, branches/plant, pods/plant, seeds/pod, seed index, seed and straw yields and net returns of soybean, grain yield of wheat, soybean-equivalent yield (SEY), profitability, production- and economic-efficiency of system, available N, P and K status of soil after harvesting of wheat and soybean as compared to 1 irrigation at flowering stage. However, available K status of soil after harvesting of soybean was found non-significant in relation to irrigation. Wheat-residue incorporation with irrigation and application of urea @ 25 kg/ha + cellulolytic microbes @ 2.0 kg/ha resulted in the highest growth and yield attributes, seed and straw yields and net returns of soybean, water-use efficiency (WUE), water productivity (WP), soybean-equivalent yield (4.51 t/ha), system profitability (` 96,520/ha), production (12.35 kg/ha/day) and economic (264`/ha/day) efficiency of system, organic carbon, bulk density of soil after harvesting of soybean and N, P and K status of soil after harvesting of both soybean as well as wheat over wheat-residue burning. Application of 125% RDF resulted in the maximum growth and yield attributes, seed (1.51 t/ha) and straw (2.17 t/ha) yield, net returns (`25,700), benefit: cost ratio (1.09) of soybean and SEY (4.44 t/ha), system profitability ( 95,740/ha), production (12.15 kg/ha/day) and economic efficiency (262` /ha/day), bulk density (1.42 Mg/m³), N (282, 288 kg/ha) P₂O₅ (24.6,25.9 kg/ha) and K₂O (293, 299 kg/ha) of soil after harvesting of wheat and soybean respectively.

4 tables, 13 ref

041018   SOFIYA M, ESWARAN R, SILAMBARASAN V (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, Email: eswargene@gmail.com) : Correlation and path coefficient analysis in rice (Oryza sativa l.) genotypes under normal and cold condition. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(2), 237-41.

An experiment was conducted with the objective of determining the magnitude of association between seedling vigour index and its component characters. Fifty rice genotypes were evaluated in completely randomized design with three replications. Correlation coefficient analysis of vigour index showed positive and significant association with total seedling length, root length, total seedling dry weight, root dry weight, shoot length, germination percentage and first leaf area under normal condition. Germination percentage, total seedling length, root length, shoot length and first leaf area showed strong and significant positive association with seedling vigour index under cold condition. Thus, these traits could play pivotal role in developing cold tolerant rice. Separation of correlation coefficients into direct and indirect effects of component traits for vigour index revealed that the traits total seedling length and root dry weight exerted maximum positive direct and indirect effect respectively on vigour under normal condition. Under cold stress the traits shoot length and root length exerted maximum positive direct and indirect effects respectively for vigour index. These characters, therefore, are required to be considered during selection for vigour improvement in rice under normal and cold condition in rice.

4 tables, 22 ref

041016   KRISHNA K V, DEEPTHI C H, REDDY M D, RAJU P S, PAL A (Agronomy Dep, Centurion Univ of Technology and Management, Sitapur - 761 211, Odisha, Email: vamsin111@gmail.com) : Effect of nitrogen and phosphorus levels on growth and yield of finger millet [Eleusine coracana (l.)] during summer. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(2), 227-31.

A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of nitrogen and phosphorous on growth and yield of finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) at Centurion University, Paralakhemundi during summer (February-May), 2018. The combination of four nitrogen levels (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg ha^-1) and three levels of phosphorus (0, 20 and 40 kg ha^-1) were tested in Split plot design with three replications. There was a significant improvement in plant height and yield attributes with the application of 90 kg N ha^-1 as compared to lower levels of N application. With increase in levels of Phosphorus from 20 and 40 kg ha^-1 has significantly increased yield. Significantly higher grain (1054kg ha^-1) and straw yield (4369kg ha^-1) were recorded with the application of 90kg N ha^-1 and 40 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 while, the minimum yield was observed with 0 kg N ha^-1 and 0 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 .

5 tables, 17 ref

044812   KUKRETI S, VISHWAKARMA M P, BHATT R P (Botany Dep, PDBH Govt. PG Coll, Kotdwar, Email: mpvishwakarma62@gmail.com) : Diversity, distribution and ecology of boletoid mushrooms from Garhwal Himalaya, Uttarakhand. J Mountain Res 2020, 15, 201-7.

The present investigation was carried out in different mixed broadleaf and coniferous forests of Garhwal Himalaya. Major associates trees are Quercus, Rhododendron, Betula, Pinus, Cedrus and Cupressus in the explored forest. The specimens were collected from these forests between July 2000 to September 2004, in the elevation range of 1600–3000 m above sea level from districts Chamoli, Pauri, Rudraprayag and Tehri. As a result of an extensive field survey and microscopic study in laboratory, 7 genera spread over into 35 taxa belonging to 3 families (Boletaceae, Gyroporaceae and Suillaceae) were identified. Of these, 7 taxa were known to be edible and consumed in various parts of Garhwal region.

1 table, 17 ref

044811   BHANDARI B S, FALSWAL A, RANCHI, PRIYANKA (Botany and Microbiology Dep, HNB Garhwal Univ, Srinagar Garhwal- 246 174, Uttarakhand, Email: bhandaribs11@gmail.com) : Dominance and diversity of fallen epiphytic lichens in a broadleaved forest ecosystem of Garhwal Himalaya, India. J Mountain Res 2020, 15, 197-200.

The communication is aimed at providing quantitative information on fallen epiphytic lichens in a broadleaved forest ecosystem dominated by Oak (Quercus semecarpifolia). A total of 17 lichen species were encountered during the field samplings. Parmotrema perlatum was the dominant lichen species with higher values of density and diversity followed by Lecanora chlaroteraa, the co-dominant species. Medium diversity index (Shannon-Wiener) is an indicator for further investigation at broader level of forest ecosystems.

1 table, 13 ref

044803   KHAJURIA A K, CHOWDHARY F, BISHT N S (Botany Dep, Cluster Univ, Jammu- 180 001, Jammu and Kashmir, Email: arun.khajuria20@gmail.com) : Biogenic synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using leaf extract of Justicia adhatoda and their antimicrobial activity. J Mountain Res 2020, 15, 135-40.

In the present study, an inexpensive green route has been demonstrated for the formation of ZnO nanoparticles by biogenic method using aqueous leaf extract of Justicia adhatoda which acts as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesized ZnO nanoparticles were preliminarily characterized by UV-VIS followed by using different analytical techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The XRD pattern confirmed that, the synthesized ZnO nanoparticles are of hexagonal wurtzite structure with average calculated grain size less than 9.40 nm. The FT-IR spectra indicated the presence of hydroxyl groups, carboxylic acids which may be responsible for biochemical reaction. The clear zone of inhibition against both gram- positive and gram-negative bacteria confirmed the antimicrobial potential of synthesized ZnO nanoparticles.

3 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

044800   CHAMOLI K (Botany Dep, Govt. P. G. Coll, Uttarakhand- 246 421, Email: kpchamoli5@gmail.com) : Studies on the weed flora of agastyamuni block, Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand. J Mountain Res 2020, 15, 117-26.

Weed commonly called ‘khar- kabad’ in Uttarakhand or ‘kharpatvar’ in India, and is one of the major biological constraints that limits crop productivity. The present communication pertains to survey and inventory of weed flora in Agastyamuni block of district Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand. The study was based on extensive and intensive field survey made during July 2018 to October 2019. During the study period the authors have reported a total 312 species belonging to 188 genera and 54 families from dicots, monocots and pteridophyta. Asteraceae was found to be the most dominant family followed by Poaceae, Lamiaceae and Fabaceae respectively. Survey results also revealed that most of the recorded species were annuals followed by perennials and biennials. Most abundant species were Bidense pilosa, Chenopodium album, Erigeron canadensis, Cynodon dactylon, Gallinsogo parviflora, Eupatorium adenophorum, Oxalis conrniculata, Parthenium hysterophorus, Lantana camara, Soncchus arvensis, Ageratum conozoides, Plantago major, Ganaphallium lutealbum, Siegesbeckia orientalis, Youngia japonica, Amaranthus virids, Stellaria media and Phalaris minor. Many weeds are ethnobotanically important and utilized by the local community.

1 table, 13 ref

044797   BALUNI P, KURIYAL S K (Botany Dep, SDM PG Coll Doiwala, Dehradun- 248 001, Uttarakhand, Email: prati.baluni@gmail.com) : Ethno-medicinal documentation of plants used by the rural folk of Pauri and kot blocks in District Garhwal, Uttarakhand. J Mountain Res 2020, 15, 91-5.

The Garhwal Himalaya is rich in medicinal plant diversity. Several medicinal plants are used to cure various ailments since time immemorial. The present study is an attempt to enumerate the ethno-medicinal use of some rare plants by the rural folk of Pauri and Kot block around the Randi stream catchment area, district Pauri Garhwal. Elderly people and Vaidyas (local herbal healers) were interviewed for their knowledge on the various uses of the medicinal plants found in the adjacent areas. A total of 89 medicinal plants species were recorded and documented along with their botanical name, family, vernacular name, parts used etc. The study emphasizes the herbal potential of Uttarakhand and will also provide a base line for conservation and further scientific investigation.

1 table, 13 ref

046337   ARUTSELVAN R, DEVI G U, PRASAD R D, SARADA C (Plant Pathology Dep, Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural Univ, Hyderabad - 500 030, Email: rarutselvan@gmail.com) : Effect of temperature and culture media on mycelial growth and sporulation of Botryotinia ricini causing gray mold of castor. The J Res PJTSAU 2020, 48 (1&2), 21-7.

Gray mold diseases of castor caused by the fungus Botryotinia ricini is responsible for disease epidemics and heavy yield losses in castor growing regions of Telangana state.  A laboratory experiment was conducted to study the mycelial growth rate, colony character and sporulation pattern of Botryotinia ricini on ten different culture media viz., corn meal agar, pikovskayas agar, carrot agar, potato carrot agar, glucose agar, oat meal agar, potato dextrose agar, czapek’sdox agar, soybean meal agar and water agar. The mycelial colony diameter, culture characteristics (texture, pigmentation, and pattern) and sporulation of B.ricini were greatly influenced across the culture media tested. OMA and PDA evinced higher mycelial growth and sporulation of B. ricini, whereas remaining eight media revealed low sporulation. Colony colour varied from grayish-white to brown across the culture media tested. Findings revealed that oat meal agar was the most suitable culture medium for growth and sporulation of B. ricini. The optimum temperature for its growth and sporulation was found to be 22 ^oC under in vitro conditions.

1 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

041014   SUJATHA K, AMBIKA S (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Agricultural Coll and Research Institute, Madurai - 625 104, Tamil Nadu, Email: sujathakvk@gmail.com) : Designer seed for enhancement of yield in cotton. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(2), 217-21.

Field experiments were carried out at Agricultural Research Station, Vaigai Dam, to identify the performance of designer seed on yield of cotton. Seeds fortified with KCl 1 % for 6 h followed by polymer coating @ 3ml/ kg + Carbendazim @ 2 g/kg + imidachloprid @ 2 ml/kg + Tichoderma viride @ 4 g/kg + Azospirilum @ 40 g /kg. The effect was more beneficial through increased field emergence (86 %) population at maturity/plot (57.34), number of sympodial branches (13.62), number of. bolls/ plant (64.50), kapas yield/plant (71.02 g), kapas yield/plot (2.43 kg) and seed yield/ plant (43.72 g) compared to untreated control (73 %, 48, 12.04, 50.99, 59.67 g, 1.93 kg and 37.9 g, respectively for field emergence, population at maturity/plot, number of sympodial branches, number of. bolls/plant, kapas yield/plant (g), kapas yield/plot (kg) and seed yield/ plant (g). Days to 50 % flowering and pest and disease incidences (%) were higher in untreated control compared to control. The per cent decrease over control was 12.5 and 52.4 %, respectively for days to 50 % flowering and pest and disease.

1 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

042814   MANDAL A, ADHIKARY T , CHAKRABORTY D, ROY P , SAHA J , BARMAN A , SAHA P (Botany Dep, A. B. N. Seal Coll, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, Email: mandal.aninda@gmail.com) : Ethnomedicinal uses of plants by Santal tribe of Alipurduar district, West Bengal, India. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(20), 2021–9.

To document the traditional knowledge on medicinal plants used by the Santal tribe residing at seven different villages in Alipurduar district of West Bengal, India to treat common human ailments. The field survey was conducted during July 2018 to January 2020 using guided fieldwalk method. Santal traditional medicinal practitioners (locally called Kabiraj) and local knowledgeable Santal men and women were interviewed with the help of pretested semi-structured questionnaries to record their knowledge on ethnomedicinal uses of local vegetation in their surroundings. The questionnaire covered aspects like local name, scientific name, family, used parts, ethnomedicinal uses, among others. Plants were collected mostly during the flowering stage and routine method of herbarium techniques was followed and the collected plants were identified using relevant sources. Altogether 73 medicinal plants of 45 families were recorded to be used to treat 38 types of diseases ranging from very common physical problems to complex diseases. Fabaceae represents the highest number (5 species) of medicinal plants. Herbs (39.73 %) and trees (38.36 %) represents the dominant life-forms and mostly the plants were collected from the natural habitat (56.16 %). For the preparation of medicine, leaves were found to be most frequently used (47.50 %) plant part than the others. In general, ethnomedicines were prepared from the fresh plant materials and were administered orally (66.25 %) or topically (33.75 %). Documentation of medicinal plants used by the Santals in the treatment of various diseases could further be utilised to develop new drugs and pharmaceutical products. However, to achieve sustainable development, conservation, cultivation and proper utilisation of medicinal plants should be monitored scientifically. Utilization of medicinal plants by the Santal tribe has been documented for the first time from Alipurduar district and has enriched the existing database of medicinal plants.

4 illus, 1 table, 55 ref

041010   ORAON S, MONDAL S (Botany Dep, Visva-Bharati Univ, Santiniketan - 731 235, West Bengal, Email: submondal@rediffmail.com) : Studies on allelopathic effect of aqueous leaf extract of Putranjiva roxburghii wall. on seed germination and early growth of chickpea (Cicer arietinum l.). Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(2), 193-8.

The present study reveals the allelopathic effect of aqueous leaf extracts of Putranjiva roxburghii Wall. on seed germination and early growth stages of an economically important plant chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Aqueous leaf extracts at 0, 5, 10, 15, 25, 35, 50, 75 and 100 % concentrations were applied to determine their effect on seed germination and early growth stages under laboratory conditions. Laboratory-based experiments with three replicates were used to arrange treatments accordingly. After 5 days of incubation the rate of seed germination, radicle length and hypocotyls length etc. of chickpea seeds were observed after treatment with aqueous leaf extracts. Highest inhibitory effect was noticed in 100 % of aqueous leaf extract. Results indicated that the inhibitory effect was proportional to the concentration of the extracts. The water soluble leaf extracts contain allelochemicals, which inhibit the seed germination and reduced the early growth of chickpea.

2 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

041007   HENDAWY S F, HUSSEIN M S, AMER H M, SALAHELDIN S (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Dep, National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza, Egypt, Email: sabri.salaheldin@agr.aswu.edu.eg) : Productivity of summer savory (Satureja hortensis l.) in different locations of Egypt. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(2), 175-80.

Field experiment was conducted to evaluate the growth, yield and essential oil constituents of savory at three different locations across Egypt (El-Minya, El-Sharkia and Sinai). Plants cultivated in El-Sharkia showed significantly higher values of plant height, number of branches and herb fresh and dry weights. Also, the highest quality was observed on plant cultivated in El-Sharkia region. Thirty one main compounds were detected in GC-MS analysis of essential oil. There were obvious differences in chemical constituents of essential oil of plants cultivated under different locations. The main components were γ-Terpinene and Carvacrol. The highest γ-Terpinene and Carvacrol were observed also in plants cultivated in El-Sharkia. These results suggested that agro-climatic zone is very important for maximizing the content and composition of essential oils.Further studies are still needed to determine the precise factors of agro-climatic zoning which could be important strategies for optimizing the yield and quality

2 illus, 4 tables, 29 ref

041005   GHORBANI E, MOTALLEBI-AZAR A, BOLANDNAZAR S (Horticultural Science Dep, Tabriz Univ, Tabriz, Iran, Email: motallebiazar@gmail.com) : Agro-morphological variation in some iranian melon (Cucumis melo l.) genotypes revealed by multivariate analysis. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(2), 161-7.

Diversity of 9 local Iranian genotypes of melon was studied based on 28 quantitative and qualitative agro-morphological traits, using multivariate statistical methods. Analysis of variance showed significant differences between genotypes for all quantitative traits. However, the studied melon genotypes were previously clustered in two main groups of inodorous and cantalopensis, cluster analysis classified them in four different groups based on all traits, in particular outlaying Shadegani genotype from Inodorous group. Clustering was also supported by principal components analysis (PCA). The first two PCs contributed 60 % of the total variability and demonstrated variations mainly on the basis of yield related traits including fruit number, day to flower, day to harvest, fruit weight, fruit length and other distinctive traits such as rind pattern, peduncle attachment strength, fruit firmness and aroma. Accordingly, agro-morphological traits could be used for variation studies in melons and results might be useful for improving breeding programs.

3 illus, 4 tables, 21 ref

041002   SANGLE S M (Botany Dep, Rajaram Coll, Kolhapur - 616 004, Maharashtra, Email: sunilsangle10@gmail.com) : Induced genetic variability for quantitative traits in pigeonpea. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(2), 139-46.

Seeds of two pigeonpea varieties namely BDN 708 and BSMR 853 were treated with Gamma rays, ethyl methane sulphonate (EMS) and Sodium azide (SA). The treated as well as control plant populations were screened to study the induced variability for quantitative characters. Positive shift in mean values for number of primary branches per plant was observed except 0.10 % EMS in variety BSMR 853 and BDN 708 in M₂ generation. The effect of all the mutagenic treatments on pods per plant revealed statistically significant negative as well as positive shifts in mean values in BSMR 853 in M₂ and M₃ generations.

4 tables, 42 ref

041001   AMINA B, RIDA M M, ABDELKADER A A, SRIPADA U, SEMIR G S B (Abou-Bekr Belkaïd Univ, Chetouane, Algeria, Email: bouri.amina@ymail.com) : Genetic diversity analysis in chickpea (Cicer arietinum l) genotypes grown in Northwestern Algeria using microsatellite markers (SSR). Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(2), 129-38.

The present study aimed to characterize a subset of 10 selected chickpea accessions (Cicer arietinum L.) using SSR. The result indicated a presence of a total of 59 alleles. The genetic diversity at the 15 microsatellites loci was varied from 0, 32 for TA22 to 0.78 for TA72 and TA117 with an average of 0.66. Polymorphic information content (PIC) values ranged from 0.27 to 0.74. This study also detected a high significant (P < 0.01) positive correlation between alleles per locus, gene diversity (H) and polymorphism information content (PIC). In the dendrogram and on the PCoA bi-plots, chickpea genotypes were adjoined according to their geographic origin, type of chickpea (Kabuli/ Desi). Nevertheless, the distribution of the different grouping through the factorial correspondence analysis (AFC) is due to the genetic variability.

6 illus, 3 tables, 36 ref

041000   ALKOORANEE J T, AL-KHSHEMAWEE H H, AL-BADRI M A K, AL-SRAI M S, DAWERI H H (Plant Protection Dep, Wasit Univ, Wasit, Iraq, Email: jalkooranee@uowasit.edu.iq) : Antifungal activity and GC-MS detection of leaves and roots parts of Chenopodium album extract against some phytopathogenic fungi. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(1), 117-21.

Antifungal potential of leaves and roots parts of Chenopodium album was evaluated against five phytopathogenic fungi including Alternaria alternata, Fusarium solani, Rhizoctonia solani, Pythium aphanidermatum and Sclerotinia sclerotium using four concentrations viz. 0, 5, 10 and 15% of leaves and roots water extract led to significantly reduced of fungi mycelial growth. GC-MS analysis of leaves and roots water extract showed the presence of 7 compounds. 2(3H)-furanone, dihydro-4,4-dimethyl; 9-octadecenoic acid (Z), methyl ester; 9,12-octadecenoic acid (Z), methyl ester; 6-methylene bicyclo (3.2.0) hept-3-en-2-one., 1,2-benzene dicarboxylic acid, mono (2-ethylhexyl) ester and hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester. Five phytopathogenic fungi could be managed and controlled by the water leaves and roots extract of C. album. The antifungal activity of this extract was possible could be used to control a wide range of fungi.

1 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

040999   ALI H G I, SUNDUKOV O V, ASTARKHANOVA T S (RUDN Univ, Moscow 117198, Russia, Email: Hassan.g.el-shrief@agr.sohag.edu.eg) : Comparative toxicity and synergism in two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) under disruptive selection. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(1), 112-6.

The two-spotted spider mite is a destructive phytophagous of agricultural and horticultural crops. The disruptive selection had fulfilled on T. urticae females in 20 inbred generations. The selection of individual female genotypes was carried out according to a lethality rate of  diagnostic  concentrations  of  each acaricides.  Malathion  and  fenpyroximate  strains  performed  for  comparative  toxicity to  five acaricides belonging to different chemical groups: dimethoate, bifenthrin, pyridaben, brompropylate and abamectin. The results allow us to conclude the malathion and fenpyroximate in mites with resistance alleles to one of these acaricides showed that, normalization of biochemical processes on the mitochondrial membrane depends on the function of the transport plasma membrane system. The expression of the malathion resistance gene was completely suppressed by the butyphos esterase inhibitor, while fenpyroximate resistance gene was not manifested in the inhibition of PBO activity of monooxygenases enzymes.

2 illus, 4 tables, 19 ref

040997   LABAD R, HARTANI T, SHINDE G U (Agronomy Dep, Ferhat Abbes Univ, Setif, Algeria, Email: ryma_loulou308@hotmail.fr) : Effect of weed treatment on cereal yield in direct seeding: A challenge between soil pollution and seeds quality. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(1), 101-6.

The study was conducted at Technical Institute of Cereals (ITGC- Setif) during the years 2014-2018 for understanding the effect of weed treatment in direct seeding on cereal yield, soil and seeds quality. Two horizons were considered: horizon one (0< H₁< 20 cm) and horizon two (H₂ < 20 cm) and four herbicide doses were applied: D₁ =1080g ha^-1, D₂ = 900g ha^-1, D₃ = 720 g ha^-1 and D₄ = 540 g ha^-1 . The yield results depended on the herbicide doses applied before seeding. The highest yield responded to the highest dose of herbicide applied (1080g ha-1). Study indicated that glyphosate reached soil during weed treatment and transferred in deep soil layer and to harvested seeds. Half-live values (DT₅₀) of glyphosate found under field conditions were high.

6 illus, 3 tables, 35 ref

044780   PRIYANKA ( Botany Dep, Patna Univ, Patna, Bihar) : Qualitative phytochemical constituents of some medicinal plants. J Med Plants Stud 2020, 8(1), 62-5.

The Qualitative analysis is very important to identify the phytochemical constituents present in medicinal plants. The medicinal properties of plants is due to the presence of particular bioactive costituents. In present study qualitative analysis of ten medicinal plants namely Syzygium aromaticum (Clove), Oxalis corniculata (Wood sorel), Solanum nigrum (Black nightshade), Azadirachta indica (Neem), Bauhinia variegata (Kachnar), Coriandrum sativum (Dhania), Anesomeles indica (Indian catmint), Terminalia bellirica (Bahera), Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) and Citrus sinensis (Orange) were done and reveals the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, Saponins, terpenoids and Steroids. Except saponins were absent in Coriandrum sativum, Terpenoid in Anesomeles indica and Terminalia bellirica. Steroids and Sterols were not present in Bauhinia variegata, Coriandrum sativum and Anesomeles indica.

1 table, 43 ref

040996   DHALI S, PRADHAN M, SAHOO R K (Botany Dep, Utkal Univ, Bhubaneswar - 751 003, Odisha, Email: chinmay_pr@yahoo.com) : Growth and biochemical variations in Macrotyloma uniflorum var. madhu under chromium stress. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(1), 95-100.

The discharge of contaminated mining and industrial residues has become a major cause of environmental pollution. Seed is highly protective against external metal stresses. But they are highly sensitive during vegetative developmental process. In this study, germination was conducted in Macrotyloma uniflorum var. Madhu, in order to find out the effect of chromium toxicity on germination, growth and biochemical variations. The seeds were germinated in five different concentrations of chromium (25μM, 50μM, 100μM, 150μM and 200 μM) solution. The hydroponically grown plants revealed the toxic phenotypic expression (root length, shoot length, seedling length, shoot vigor index, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, root fresh weight and root dry weight) of plant after 3 growth stage (15 d, 30 d and 45 d). Similarly biochemical characteristics as well as antioxidant activities (Chlorophyll, carotenoid, carbohydrate, reducing sugar, catalase, proline content and peroxidase) were studied to see the toxic effect of chromium.

3 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

040995   ELAYARAJA D, SATHIYAMURTHI S (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Naga r- 608 002, Tamil Nadu, Email: md.elayaraja@yahoo.in) : Influence of organic manures and micronutrients fertilization on the soil properties and yield of sesame (Sesamum indicum l.) in coastal saline soil. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(1), 89-94.

The light texture coastal saline soils are well known for the deficiency of both macro and micronutrients especially zinc, boron, iron and manganese, etc. The zinc (Zn) and manganese (Mn) plays an important role in improving the growth, yield and quality of sesame. A field experiment was conducted to find out the influence of organics and micronutrients fertilization on the soil properties and yield of sesame in coastal saline soil. The experiment was carried out in a farmer’s field at Ponnanthittu coastal village, near Chidambaram Taluk, Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu. The Physico-chemical properties and nutrient status of initial soil were: pH- 8.43, EC- 4.25 dS m^-1, organic carbon- 2.30 g kg^-1 and DTPA Zn – 0.70 mg kg^-1 and Mn- 0.96 mg kg^-1, respectively. The treatments included were T₁ - Control (Recommended dose of NPK), T₂ –125 % NPK + Composted coirpith (CCP) @ 12.5 t ha^-1, T₃ -T₂ + ZnSO₄ @ 25 kg ha^-1 soil application (SA), T₄ -T₂ + MnSO₄ @ 5 kg ha^-1 (SA), T₅ -T₂ + (ZnSO₄ + MnSO₄) SA, T₆ -T₂ + ZnSO₄ @ 0.5 % foliar application (FA),T₇ - T₂ + MnSO₄ (FA), T₈ -T₂ + (ZnSO₄ + MnSO₄)FA, T₉ -T₂ + ZnSO₄ (SA) + ZnSO₄ (FA), T₁₀-T₂ + MnSO₄ (SA) + MnSO₄ (FA) and T₁₁-T₂ + (ZnSO₄ + MnSO₄) SA + (ZnSO₄ + MnSO₄) FA. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications, using sesame variety TMV 7. The results of the study indicated that the combined application of 125 per cent NPK + composted coirpith (CCP) @ 12.5 t ha^-1 + ZnSO₄ @ 25 kg ha^-1 + MnSO₄ @ 5 kg ha^-1 through soil application along with foliar application of ZnSO₄ @ 0.5 % + MnSO₄ twice at 0.5 per cent significantly increased the soil nutrient availability, microbial population, enzyme activity and yield of sesame in coastal sandy soil. This treatment recorded the highest sesame seed yield of 815 kg ha^-1 and stalk yield of 1805 kg ha^-1 as compared 100 % recommended NPK alone 421 and 944 kg ha^-1 of seed and stalk yield, respectively

2 tables, 23 ref

044779   VERMA A B (Botany Dep, Marwari Coll, Darbhanga, Bihar) : Vetiveria zizanioides (L.) Nash: A review of magic grass. J Med Plants Stud 2020, 8(1), 58-61.

North Bihar floodplains witness lush growth of Vetiveria [Vetiveria zizanioides (L.) Nash. syn. Chrysopogon zizanioides (L.) Roberty], locally identified as “Kataraghas” of the family Poaceae. The plant has an important role in addressing current environmental concern of human being all across the globe, specially in tropical and subtropical countries. This has attracted worldwide attention and several conferences on international basis have already been organized on its properties and uses. The morphological & physiological characteristics of Vetiveria grass make it a unique bioengineering tool for utilization in various ways including the livelihood means. Vetiveria has multidirectional environmental application such as conservation and detoxification of degraded soil and water, check in erosion of soil during flood and landslide disaster, mitigation etc. besides having its perpetual need in performing some rituals of Indian culture.

2 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

040993   YAKOVENKO R V, KOPYTKO P G, PETRISHINA I P, BUTSYK R M, BORYSENKO V V (Uman National Univ of Horticulture, Uman, Ukraine, Email: plodroma78@gmail.com) : Productivity of pear plantings depending on the content of main macroelemants (n, p, k) in the soil after optimized fertilization. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(1), 77-82.

The results of changes in the yield and quality of pear fruit on the clone rootstock of A quince grown again after a logged-off old pear tree garden using optimum levels of N and K₂O content in the rooting soil layer in the presence of P₂O₅ in it more optimal level without fertilizers are given. Norms of nitrogen and potassium fertilizers are calculated on the basis of agrochemical soil analyzes in such quantities to compensate for the lack of N-NO₃ (in terms of nitrification capacity of the soil) and available K₂O forms for plant nutrition and bring their content to the optimal levels determined by studies for apples and recommended for pears. The studies have established that pear fertilizers are calculated on the basis of agricultural chemical analysis of soil with fertilizer standards containing only those elements and in such quantities that are not sufficient in the soil for optimal nutrition of trees, contribute to a significant increase in the yield of fruits with less technological costs. Accordingly, higher profitability of production and safety for the ecological state of the environment are ensured, compared to the annual introduction of the recommended norm of N₉₀Р₆₀K₉₀.

2 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

042787   CHOUDHARY A K, TUDU S , KUMARI P , RANJAN A (Botany Dep, Tilka Manjhi Bhagalpur Univ, Bhagalpur - 812 007, Bihar, Email: choudharyakbot@gmail.com) : Present status, prevalence and seasonal variations of aflaxtoxin in cattle feed, Bihar, India. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(17), 1738–45.

Aflatoxin B₁, a potent carcinogen is produced by Aspergillus flavus Link ex Fries. Natural contamination of aflatoxin in Bihar is fairly high due to socio-economic backwardness and also outdated agricultural and storages practices. In the present investigation cattle feeds collected in different seasons (Winter, Summer and Monsoon) from three different localities (Bhagalpur, Banka and Naugachia) were screened for aflatoxin B₁. Analysis of Variance has been done with the help of Microsoft Excel, 2013 (USA). CD has been calculated at 5 %. The amount of aflatoxin B1 was significantly high (P<0.05 %) in household cattle feeds followed by commercial cattle feeds, where the mean value of AFB1 was 5.02 ± 2.46µg/kg and 4.19 ± 1.05µg/kg, respectively. Freshly harvested cattle feeds (maize, paddy husk, paddy straw, maize straw and green grasses) were comparatively safe. Seasons had marked influence on aflatoxin B1 contamination on various types of cattle feeds. Maximum levels of aflatoxin B1 was detected during wet seasons in household cattle feeds (Mean value = 7.79 ± 2.07µg/kg). Maize grains because of high nutritional value and production, it is one of the major ingredients of cattle feeds. In the locality of Naugachia, flood and frequent rains delay the natural drying of maize kernels during harvesting in monsoons resulting thereby, high mould infestation and aflatoxin synthesis. In order to check the risk of aflatoxin M1 toxin entrance in food chain and subsequent human/ cattle health and economic losses, frequent evaluation of AFB1 in cattle feeds be monitored.

3 illus, 2 tables, 36 ref

040990   BOUKHALFA-DERAOUI N, HANIFI-MEKLICHE L, MEKLICHE A, CHELOUFI H, BABAHANI S (Kasdi Merbah Ouargla Univ, P.O. Box: 511. 30,000, Ouargla, Algeria, Email: boukhalfan2005@yahoo.fr) : Influence of phosphorus fertilizers application on phosphorus use efficiency and grain protein of winter wheat in alkaline-calcareous soil, Southern Algeria. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(1), 51-7.

Three field experiments (2008 to 2011) were conducted to evaluate the ability of winter wheat (Triticum durum Desf. var. Carioca) to utilize and acquire soil phosphorus and nitrogen under different sources of phosphate fertilizers (Fosfactyl, Single super phosphate and Mono-ammonium-phosphate) and rates of applications (30, 60, 90 and 120 kg Pha^-1) with a fixed level of nitrogen fertilization. Results revealed a significant effect of P rates on phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE); however, P sources fertilizer had non-significant effect in all three cropping seasons. PUE and NUE decreased markedly with increasing P supply that did not result in an improvement of P and N uptake. Grain protein content was significantly influenced by phosphorus fertilization in 2008-09. The best values were obtained by Single super phosphate and P rate 60 kg ha^-1 .

2 illus, 3 tables, 41 ref

044776   HALIMAT A, YUSUF M S, YUSUF D O A, SIDI A B, USMAN A N, UNEKWU H R (Plant Biology Dep, Federal Univ of Technology Minna, Nigeria) : Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used in the treatment of gastrointestinal tract infections in Ebiraland Kogi state, Nigeria. J Med Plants Stud 2020, 8(1), 38-44.

An ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used in the treatment of gastrointestinal tract infection in Ebira land Kogi State, Nigeria was carried out to obtain relevant information on their uses and potentials. Informed consent was obtained orally from traditional heads of the communities and all the participants before inception of the interview. Ethnobotanical data were collected by oral interview with the aid of a semi-structured questionnaire administered to the respondents which were mainly Herbalists/Traditional medical practioners (TMPs), Herb sellers, Elders and others (Housewives and Mothers). A total of 87 medicinal plant species representing 80 genera and 41 families were documented. The Common names, Local names, Habit, Habitat, Plant parts used, Indications and mode of preparation were also recorded. The Family Fabaceae was the most represented plant family with 8 species. The trees were the dominant plant habit (35.63 %). Leaves were the most used plant part (50.27 %), the plants obtained from the wild represented 38 % while those cultivated made up 62 %. Medicinal plants play a substantial role in the management of gastrointestinal tract infection in the study Area. However efforts should be made to conserve medicinal plant genetic resources and reduce pressures on the remaining germplasm to ensure continued access to these plant materials.

3 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

040989   SINGH S, SAXENA A K (Shri Guru Ram Rai Univ, Dehradun - 248 001, Uttarakhand, Email: drsuneetaksaxena@gmail.com) : Effect of picking dates on physico-chemical characteristics of karonda (Carissa carandas l.) cultivars. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(1), 43-50.

An experiment was carried out during 2017-18 at Department of Horticulture, School of Agricultural Sciences, District Dehradun, Uttarakhand to see the effect of picking dates on physico-chemical characteristics of Karonda cultivars. The treatments comprised three different dates of picking of berries (40, 60 and 80 Days after fruit set) and three cultivars viz Pant Manohar, Pant Sudarshan and Pant Suvarna. All the 9 treatment combinations were laid out in a 3 x 3 factorial randomized block design with 3 replications. Observations were recorded at three different picking dates. The treatment combination C₃D₃ (Pant Suvarna + 80 Days after fruit set) was found better in terms of moisture, total soluble solids, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar, total sugar, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, phosphorous, calcium and iron content i.e. maximum moisture content (89.41 %), highest TSS (8.53ºBrix), highest reducing sugar (6.20 %), highest non-reducing sugar (2.03 %), highest total sugar (8.33 %), highest iron (6.74 mg/100g), maximum ascorbic acid (12.06 mg/100g) and lowest titratable acidity (1.74 %), followed by C₁D₃ (Pant Manohar + 80 Days after fruit set) and C₂D₃ (Pant Sudarshan + 80 Days after fruit set). The treatment combination C₃D₂ (Pant Suvarna + 60 Days after fruit set) recorded maximum pectin content.

2 tables, 9 ref

040988   KUMAR B, SARLACH R S (Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Harike - 143 412, Tarn Taran, Punjab, Email: dr.balwinderkumar@rediffmail.com) : Effect of foliar sprays of sulfuric acid and thiourea on herbage and seed yield in berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum l.). Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(1), 35-42.

An abiotic stress such as low temperature or frost poses serious challenge for proper growth and development of the crop. The study was carried out for two consecutive years to investigate the effect of mixed cropping (berseem + oat vs pure berseem) and two bioregulators (H₂SO₄ and Thiourea) applied at different concentrations (0.05 and 0.1 %) during low temperature conditions on growth, fodder yield and seed yield of berseem. Berseem + oat cropping recorded significantly higher green fodder yield, dry matter yield and crude protein yield by 7.0 %, 6.1 % and 3.4 % respectively over pure stand. Bio-regulators sprays viz. H₂SO₄ and Thiourea after first cut recorded 5.2-11.2 % increase in green fodder yield. Berseem seed yield and harvest index were significantly superior in pure stand than intercrops. An increase of 21.4 % in berseem seed yield was recorded with foliar sprays of 0.05 % TU over control.

6 tables, 19 ref

040986   AYISI K K, MUNJONJI L, MASEKELA K V (Limpopo Univ, Sovenga, 0727, South Africa, Email: munjonji@gmail.com) : Yield and physiological response of common bean in three semi-commercial farmers’ fields in limpopo province. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(1), 19-26.

Despite the importance of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) in human nutrition, its production in developing countries is far below consumption rates. A study was established to understand the yield performance and physiological response of common bean under three farmers’ field in the Limpopo Province. The results revealed significant variation in grain yield and biomass between the locations. Physiological parameters such as the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Leaf Area Index (LAI), SPAD value and leaf gas exchanges were strongly influenced by the location, the crop growth stage and crop management. Dry bean crop performance was significantly lower at Masemola. Grain yield at Masemola was 30 % less than that achieved at Dalmada and Mokopane. NDVI and LAI were also consistently lower at Masemola when compared to the other locations. This study revealed that poor yields by emerging farmers in dry areas are due to poor agronomic and irrigation management.

6 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

040985   GHOSH S, DAS D, NANDY P, RAY A (Scottish Church Coll, Kolkata - 700 006, West Bengal, Email: satabdighoshbotany@gmail.com) : Study of germin like oxalate oxidase enzyme in monocot plants. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(1), 10-8.

Oxalate oxidase enzyme in monocotyledonous plants, act as a scavenger to breakdown oxalic acid into carbon dioxide and hydrogen peroxide. They perform several important functions in early plant defence responses, including induction of PR protein synthesis and systemic resistance. In the present study oxalic acid, the virulence factor of fungi, was applied to monocotyledonous plants and it was observed that it activates the innate host immune system, along with secretion of oxalate oxidase. The enzymatic activities of other host defence related enzymes like catalase, superoxide dismutase, ascorbic acid oxidase, phenolic content, phenylalanine ammonia lyase were compared between the control and oxalic acid treated (2mM) plants.

9 illus, 50 ref

042778   MANDAL A, SAHA P , BEGUM A , SAHA A , CHAKRABORTY B , DUTTA S , ROY K K (Botany Dep, A.B. N. Seal Coll, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, Email: mandal.aninda@gmail.com) : Ethnomedicinal plants used by the ethnic people living in fringe villages of rasikbil of Cooch Behar district , West Bengal, India. Indian J Sci Technol 2020, 13(16), 1676–85.

The field study was undertaken at the adjoining villages of Rasikbil of Cooch Behar district, West Bengal, India to record the ethnomedicinal plants used by the Rava, Santal and Oraon people and to explore their traditional knowledge to treat common ailments. With the help of pretested semi-structured questionnaire, tribal men and women were interviewed on ethnomedicinal uses of local flora during July 2018 to January 2020. The questionnaire covered aspects like local name, scientific name, family, used parts, ethnomedicinal uses, among others. Routine methods of plant collection and herbarium techniques were followed and the collected species were identified using relevant sources. A total of 57 plant species of 34 families were found to be used to treat several diseases like cough and cold, diabetes, among others. In few cases, the plant parts were used in combination with other plant parts to prepare traditional medicine. The plant family Fabaceae represents the highest number (6 species) of ethnomedicinal plants among others. Among different plant parts used for the preparation of medicine, leaves were most frequently used (49.12 %) for the treatment of diseases. Besides, fruits, seeds, roots, etc. were also found to be used as traditional medicine for the treatment of ailments among human beings. The traditional knowledge of ethnic people regarding the utilisation of ethnomedicinal plants may be used in the preparation of pharmaceutical products which could contribute towards availability of essential drugs at much reduced cost. In addition, populations of medicinal plants must be monitored in order to conserve them and aid in planning sustainable utilisation. In comparison to earlier reports, present study revealed 14 more plant species having immense ethnomedicinal values and frequently used by the tribal people in the area. In this regard, the study is significant to enrich the existing database.

3 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

040984   KICHU A, AJUNGLA T, NYENTHANG G, YEPTHO L (Botany Dep, Nagaland Univ, Lumami - 798 627, Nagaland, Email: asanglakichu15@gmail.com) : Colonial and morphological characteristics of soil fungi from jhum land. Indian J Agric Res 2020, 54(1), 1-9.

Soil fungi represent one of the important microbial groups that are actively involved in enhancement of environmental quality and plant nutrient supply. Studying native soil fungal species and their accurate identification is crucial for contribution to the checklist of fungi. The present study aimed at isolation and identification of some soil fungi from Jhum land, Mokokchung district, Nagaland. Serial dilution method was used to isolate soil fungi on RBA (Rose Bengal Agar) and PDA (Potato Dextrose Agar) plates. Altogether fourteen fungal species belonging to genera Absidia, Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Geotrichum, Mortierella, Mucor, Penicillium and Trichoderma were identified by studying their macro- and micro-morphological characteristics.

4 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

044774   NATH A, ALI K, CHAKRABORTY S K (Samhita & Siddhanta Dep, Govt. Ayurvedic Coll, Ghy, Assam) : A detailed pharmacognostic, physicochemical and phytochemical study of Haridra, Haritaki and Guduchi Churna. J Med Plants Stud 2020, 8(1), 31-3.

A large number of plants are claimed to possess the medicinal properties in the system of Ayurveda. Among those Haridra (Curcuma longa), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) are commonly used in many formulations to treat Kustha (Skin disorders). But these herbs are needed to be standardized to prove their authenticity and establishment of a unique identification data. Present study is carried out to establish a standard pharmacognostic profile & phytochemical standard of these three herbs to find out the bioactive compounds which will be helpful to ensure the purity, safety and efficacy. Here in this present work the powdered form of combined Haridra, Haritaki and Guduchi is subjected to physiochemical and phytochemical analysis. The microscopic study shows different significant cell structures and exhibits the unique identification characteristics. Hereby the present study will be beneficial for future references for standardization.

3 illus, 4 tables, 8 ref