001009   PANDEY R P, KUMAR P, PANDEY B K, TYAGI J V, SINGH R, KUMAR S, SAINI S (National Institute of Hydrology, Uttarakhand) : Development of rejuvenation plan for rispana river system, Uttarakhand, India. Water Energy Int 2021, 64r(2), 6-18.

The Rispana river has been lifeline of Dehradun city from ancient time. However, with the growth of the Dehradun, it has turned into a polluted stream with ephemeral characteristics. Review of historical literature indicates that the existence of flour mills and Rajpur diversion canal are reasonable indications to accept that Rispana River was perennial up to the Rajpur Canal Head Works (RCHW) site in the mid of 19th century and may be in the downstream too. However, at present, it is perennial up to Shikhar Fall only. The annual water budgeting of Rispana catchment indicates that there is total inflow of water from rainfall is about 120.102 MCM, out of which, about 55.607 MCM and 40.939 MCM goes out flow as evapotranspiration and runoff, respectively. Total water utilization from springs and river flow tapping is about 5.200 MCM. The annual water requirement for flow in Rispana River during lean season (Nov-May) has been estimated as 38.447 MCM. Due to the topographic limitations in upper hilly reaches and urban settlement in the lower reaches, creation of storages for 38.447 MCM is not feasible. Therefore, land and water management interventions remain one of the preferred alternative to enhance ground water recharge in the Rispana catchment. In the present study, the scientific land and water management plan for Rispana river rejuvenation has been prepared based on monitoring and assessment of available water resources, water utilization, hydro-geology, topography, slope, soil characteristics, stream order of drainage network and land use/land cover. The total estimated volume of annual ground water recharge through the proposed interventions may be achieved as 7.738 MCM. The assessments indicate that the rooftop rainwater harvesting and staggered trenching are the two most effective interventions to augment groundwater recharge in the Rispana catchment. The additional recharge may augment the groundwater and subsequently, may get translated into the flows of Rispana river in future during non-monsoon season.

15 illus, 5 tables, 12 ref

001007   JOSHI A, KUMAR A (Fidato Consultants Pvt. Ltd, Uttrakhand) : Review of Uttarakhand solar policy in perspective of rural development and sustainable livelihood in hilly areas. Water Energy Int 2021, 64r(3), 44-51.

Uttarakhand is one of the fastest growing states in India maintaining GDP growth rate of around 7-9 % in recent years. The plain districts have major influence in the growth of Uttarakhand rather than the hilly districts which are vulnerable in terms of socio-economic development. The lack of holistic approach towards community development at grassroot level in rural areas has put them far behind in terms of overall growth. Although, Uttarakhand has emphasized to establish the relationship between solar energy and sustainable development through Uttarakhand’s solar policy but somehow it still requires transformation in terms of rural centric approach. Inadequate support from policy and infrastructure puts solar energy out of reach of rural community. The paper critically reviews the Uttarakhand solar policy through SWOT analysis and recommends how the gaps in existing policy can be bridged affecting the development of rural hilly areas.

2 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

001006   PHOGAT N (Central Soil and Materials Research Station, New Delhi) : Stablization of expansive soil. Water Energy Int 2021, 64r(3), 24-34.

Expansive soil is prone to large volume changes which are related to changes in water content of the soil. Soil with smectite clay minerals has the most dramatic shrink-swell capacity. This continuous change in soil volume can cause foundation movement and damage to structures built on expansive soil. Remediation of expansive soil with chemicals such as, cement, fly ash, lime, polymer alters the clay mineralogy and reduce the shrink-swell potential thus making it suitable for construction purposes. In this review, various aspects of remediation of expansive soil by using chemicals including polymers are being discussed.

90 ref

000834   Ramhari, Ghosh A K, Kurrey P M (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi- 221 005, Uttar Pradesh, Email: ramhari.bhu@gmail.com) : Effect of pgpr and organic manure and plant growth, yield attributes in wheat under organic farming system Triticum aestivum L. Agric Biol Res 2021, 37(3), 163-70.

In the development and implementation of sustainable agriculture techniques, bio-fertilization is of great importance in order to alleviate deterioration of natural and environmental pollution. There is an increasing need for the management of the traditional processes of nutrient management, to result in higher nutrient concentration in soil and also to are able to exert a beneficial effect on plant growth. Bio-fertilizers combined with organic manure influences the plant growth by enhancing biomass; total root surface facility at as. Higher absorption of nutrient's and increase in yield by reducing consumption of natural. Sources of energy. The organic fertilizers have proved that their application has. The potential to increase the biomass and productivity of a wide range of crops. Hence, the research findings pertaining to these aspects on wheat crop have been reviewed.reduce environmental pollution. A considerable number of bacterial species are able to exert a beneficial effect on plant growth. Bio-fertilizers combined with organic manure influences the plant growth by enhancing biomass; total root surface facility at as. Higher absorption of nutrient's and increase in yield by reducing consumption of natural. Sources of energy. The organic fertilizers have proved that their application has. The potential to increase the biomass and productivity of a wide range of crops. Hence, the research findings pertaining to these aspects on wheat crop have been reviewed.

5 tables, 34 ref

000833   Fikre K, yohannes D B, Woldekirstos A N (Horticulture Dep, Wolkite Univ, Ethiopia, Email: kibebewfikre@gmail.com) : Effects of blended(NPSB) fertilizer rate on growth, yield and yield component of onion (Allium cepa L.) varieties at jimma condition by Wolkite, Ethiopia. Agric Biol Res 2021, 37(4), 152-57.

Onion (Allium cepa L.) is of the most important vegetable crops produced on large scale in Ethiopia. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of blended NPSB fertilizer rate on the growth and yield of onion varieties during 2018/2019 cropping season. The experiment was laid out in an RCBD with three replications. The study consisted of four levels of NPSB fertilizer rate (0, 62.5, 125, and 187.5 kg ha^-1) and three onion varieties. Data were collected for growth and bulb yield parameters. The main effect of blended NPSB and onion varieties influence only the harvest index significantly (p<0.001). Blended NPSB fertilizer and onion varieties were interacted to significantly (p<0.001) influence all parameters. The highest value for each response variables were recorded at variety Nafis with NPSB at rate of 125 kg ha^-1. The highest marketable bulb yield of 35.1 t/ha was recorded in response to 125 kg ha^-1 of NPSB with Nafis. However, as the experiment was done for only one season and single location, it has to be repeated over seasons and locations to make a conclusive recommendation by including urea and organic fertilizer.

5 tables, 62 ref

000832   Kelarijani S M J, Tari D B, Niknejad Y, Fallah H, Amiri E (Agronomy Dep, Islamic Azad Univ, Iran, Email: davoodbarari@yahoo.com) : Response of rice crop plant to nitrogen management in different geographical regions in Northern Iran. Agric Biol Res 2021, 37(3), 143-50.

The experiment was conducted to investigate the response of rice crop plant to nitrogen management in in different geographical regions in northern Iran as factorial based on a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications in Mazandaran province (Band pay Babol and Babol Plain) and Guilan province (Lahijan region) during 2019 and 2020. Three levels of nitrogen fertilizer including 50, 90 and 130 kg N ha^-1 from urea sources were used as main plots and three levels of nitrogen splitting in basal applied, initial heading stage and full heading stage were used as sub plots. The findings revealed that grain yield in Lahijan region (6044 kg ha^-1) was 6.57% and 5.53% lower than Band pay region and Babul Plain. With increase of 90 and 130 kg N ha^-1 compared to 50 kg N ha^-1, panicle length, number of panicle per hill, number of spikelet per panicle, filled spikelet percentage, grain nitrogen uptake, protein yield and nitrogen harvest index (0.77% and 2.44%, respectively) were significantly enhanced which resulted in enhance of grain yield (24.87% and 12.71%, respectively). GY with application of 50, 90 and 130 kg N ha^-1 was 5602, 6314 and 6995 kg ha^-1, respectively. In contrast, nitrogen utilization efficiency (108.21% and 30.37%, respectively) and nitrogen uptake efficiency (26.02% and 16.53%, respectively) were significantly decreased. Therefore, nitrogen management in the paddy field could be an effective approach to enhance performance of rice and nitrogen utilization efficiency is a major objective of future.

7 illus, 4 tables, 34 ref

000831   Wafa N, Sofiane G (Ferhat Abbas Setif Univ, Algeria, Email: noioua.wafa@yahoo.fr) : Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities development of methanol extracts of two endemic species growth in the park TAZA JIJEL–Algeria (Genista ferox Poiret and Genista ulicina Spatch). Agric Biol Res 2021, 37(3), 139-42.

Genista ferox Poiret and Genista ulicina Spatch are Algerian endemics species growth in the park TAZA JIJEL – Algeria valorized for the first time for their medicinal aspects. This experiment was carried out by the quantification of polyphenols and flavonoids, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of methanol extracts of the two species. The antioxidant activities were evaluated by scavenging assays of 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and the reducing power and the anti-inflammatory activity by Human Red Blood Cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization method was used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity. The obtained results indicate an important anti-inflammatory activity at a very low concentration; encourage further biological investigation.

3 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref

000828   RANJBAR R, SHAYANFAR P, MANIATI M, KHAMESIPOUR F (Islamic Azad Univ, Tehran, Iran, Email: Faham.Khamesipour@yahoo.com) : Investigation of in vitro anti-leishmaniasis effect of quercetin. Agric Biol Res 2021, 37(2), 112-15.

The five-capacity antimony compounds, as the current treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis, have disadvantages such as drug resistance and risk of relapse. Therefore, we studied the effect of quercetin on the growth of Leishmania major promastigotes and amastigotes as a new therapeutic approach. The effect of various concentrations of quercetin on Leishmania major promastigotes and amastigotes viability was evaluated after 24 hours of treatment. The percentage of parasite viability was determined by MTT colorimetric method. Thirty Wistar male rats were divided into 5 groups (n=6) including A1, A2, A3 and control which received 12.5, 25, 50 and 0 µg/ml of quercetin respectively after being infected by leishmaniasis through IP injection. The fifth group was SHAM which did not receive any compounds and were studied only for the confirmation of optimized housing conditions of rats. All rats were followed up every 5 days by measurement of lesion size and counting existing amastigotes in sample via Giemsa staining during the treatment period.  After 24 hours of parasite culture, the promastigotes and amastigotes populations decreased in the presence of various concentrations of Quercetin, and at 1.61 and 50 μg/mL concentrations, the lethality rate was 21.65% and 73.29%, respectively. Data displayed that this compound efficiently relieved the lesions on the 30th day of treatment (1.8 compared to 9.1mm in control) and reduced amastigotes population present in samples. Also, the mortality rate was not affected by Quercetin in rats 8 weeks after treatment. Our data indicated that Quercetin has in-vivo and in-vitro anti-leishmanial effects, triggering ideas to replace ordinance therapies with such new treatment which leads to patient improvements and reduced the side-effects. Therefore, further studies on quercetin in human subjects are recommended.

2 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

000827   Gedamu M T (Agriculture Dep, Swabi Univ, Ethiopia, Email: mogestadesse76@gmail.com) : Assessment of soil quality index for agricultural purpose in agamsa sub-watershed, Ethiopia. Agric Biol Res 2021, 37(2), 102-7.

Assessment of soil quality has been recognized as an important step in understanding the effect of land management practices within agricultural lands. This study was designed to assess the quality soil based on some  selected soil quality parametrs for agricultural purpose at Agamsa sub-watershed. Soil samples were collected from the 0-30 cm depth from eight locations in the study area. For the present study, SOC, electrical conductivity, available P, soil pH, total nitrogen, CEC, bulk density, soil separates (sand, silt, and clay), plant available water, exchangeable basic cations (Ca, Mg, and K), and DTPA extractable micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn) were selected as potential soil quality indicators. A minimum dataset and linear scoring technique were used to evaluate the soil quality index. The PCA analysis identified total nitrogen, soil pH, DTPA-extractable Fe, available P, plant available water, bulk density, sand, and silt as an indicator for soil quality evaluation. The result of the study revealed that 25 %, 37.5 %, 12.5 %, and 12.5 % of the soil sampling unit was very high, high, moderate, and low in its quality index classes, respectively. Therefore, periodically assessing and maintaining soil quality will be indispensable for better yield and sustainable productivity in the study area.

3 illus, 7 tables, 35 ref

000826   SHAWAL, JAMAL Y, ILAHI H, ADNAN M, REHMAN F U, ULLAH A, REHMAN M U, ULLAH A, ZUBAIR S (Agriculture Dep, Swabi Univ, Pakistan, Email: soilscientist.uos@gmail.com) : Evaluation of fodder crops for hydroponic green fodder potential. Agric Biol Res 2021, 37(2), 108-111.

Soil-based agriculture is now experiencing challenges due to numerous anthropogenic reasons, such as deforestation, urbanization and industrialization. Scientists have therefore established a new alternative solution to the farming system, named as soil-less or hydroponic cultivation. Keeping in mind this situation an experiment was conducted to evaluate the best fodder crop for hydroponic green fodder potential at CSI, NARC, Islamabad under laboratory conditions in which comparative study of green fodder was done on seven treatments with three replications in plastic trays of size 12 × 18 inches. This research study was performed in completely randomized design (CRD). The temperature during experiment was (30 ± 10 °C). The treatments were T1=Maize (300 g), T2=Oat (300 g), T3 Sorghum, T4=Maize+Oat (150+150 g), T5=Oat+Sorghum (150+150 g), T6=Millet+Oat (150+150 g) and T7=Maize+Sorghum (150+150 g). The water was applied three times a day and the temperature was also noted thrice a day. The results revealed that maximum amount of green fresh produce were recorded as for millets+oat, maize and oat with 888.00 g, 883.53 g, and 727.21 green fresh yield/tray respectively. From the current study it is concluded that producing green fodder in indoor condition maize and oat may be used as they produce more green fodder. Further it is stated that combination of maize and oat may be used for better production and water use efficiency under hydroponic condition.

6 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

000825   Haque M E, Parvin M S (Plant Pathology Dep, North Dakota State Univ, North Dakota- 58108, USA, Email: mdehsanul.haque@ndus.edu) : Sugar beet, it ‘disease rhizoctonia root rot, and potential biological agents. Agric Biol Res 2021, 37(1), 96-101.

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is supplying approximately 35 % of sugar worldwide. Rhizoctonia root rots in sugar beet is a setback for commercial cultivation. Disease severity increases when the weather is warm and under wet field conditions. Generally, integrated disease management strategies that involves cultural practice, chemical control, and host resistance are routinely followed to reduce the pathogen propagules. Alternatively, biocontrol strategies are environmentally safe, generally pose little risk of developing resistant biotypes, nevertheless, there has not been much success achieved in controlling R. solani in sugar beet with biocontrol agents in the field. This review article discussed the traditional management strategies and potential biological agents of Rhizoctonia solani.

7 illus, 103 ref

000824   Godson-Ibeji C C, Chikaire J U, Ajaero J O, Markalbert U S (Agricultural Extension Dep, Federal Univ of Technology, Imo State, Nigeria, Email: futoedu23@gmail.com) : Rural energy needs of smallholder women farmers for improved farm productivity and rural business enterprises in Abia state, Nigeria. Agric Biol Res 2021, 37(1), 93-5.

The study investigated the energy needed by rural women farmers to improve their livelihood and agricultural production in Abia state. The specific objectives were to identify the energy needs, identify energy needs rural business enterprises; and to identify the energy sources available to the respondents in the study area; identify the effects of access to energy on women farmers. A purposive sampling technique was adopted in selecting 150 respondents. Data were collected by use of structured questionnaire and interview schedule. Simple descriptive statistics such as mean, percentage and frequency distribution and a 4-scale likert type scale were used to analyse the data. The result revealed that women in the study area need energy for many activities, both on farm and off farm and some of the areas include cooking, processing, storing, telecommunication, infrastructure and transportation and others. Increased productivity, high income generation, reduced stress, increased living conditions are some of the effects of access to energy have on rural women farmers. The women in the area have few energy sources on which they depend on to carry out their various activities and these sources include machines, electricity and human power. Based on the findings, recommendations were made on women being seen as great movers of agricultural production and should be allowed and assisted to have better access to energy sources just like their male counterparts.

4 tables, 13 ref

000823   Aziz A, Asif M, Munawar A, Majeed M Z, Nadeem M A, Akhtar N, Ashraf M, Javaid M M, Adnan M, Bhatti M A (Agronomy Dep, Sargodh Univ, Pakistan, Email: ahsan.aziz@uos.edu.pk) : Exploring the herbicidal potential of some weed species by using two distinct extraction methods. Agric Biol Res 2021, 37(1), 88-91.

Weed management is extremely important for sustainable crop production in all cropping systems. The use of weedicides is one of the best approaches to keep the weeds under check but the repeated use of few selective herbicides is giving rise to problem of herbicide resistant weeds and environmental pollution. Therefore, it is imperative to identify plant species having herbicidal potential so that their bio-extracts may be used as more safe and effective novel weed management means. The present study was conducted to explore the plant growth inhibitory activity of aqueous and N-hexane extracts of Adiantum capillus-veneris, Parthenium hysterophorus and Sisymbrium orientale. A completely randomized design with factorial arrangements was used for the experiment with four replications. Aqueous and N-hexane extract of Sisymbrium orientale completely inhibited lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) seed germination while maximum mean germination time, time taken to 50 % germination, lowest germination index and seedling dry weight was observed when N-hexane extract of Parthenium hysterophorus was applied. Generally, N-hexane extracts showed more phytotoxicity than aqueous extracts. Thisstudy demonstrates that S. orientale extract have comparatively more activesubstances with ability to suppress germination and growth of plants whichcould be exploited as prospective source of bio-herbicides.

8 illus, 36 ref

000822   Chikaire J U, Godson-Ibeji C C, EI O (Agricultural Extension Dep, Federal Univ of Technology, Imo State, Nigeria, Email: futoedu23@gmail.com) : Perceived rural interventions for meeting the energy and agri-food needs of smallholder farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. Agric Biol Res 2021, 37(1), 80-2.

The study examined rural intervention programmes for meeting the energy and agri-food needs of smallholder farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to identify energy sources available to farmers in the study area; examine energy and agri-food needs of respondents and ascertain perceived rural interventions for meeting the energy and agri-food needs of respondents in the study area. A total of 360 smallholder farmers were selected and interviewed. Data were collected with a structured questionnaire and analyzed using percentages and mean. The available energy sources include human power (100%), mechanical power (70.5 %), electrical power (66.6 %), candles and kerosene (81.6 %), charcoal/wood residues (78.8 %). Energy is needed for cooking/preparing food (100 %), crop production (100 %), processing (88.5 %) and the agri-food needs were to improve farmer livelihoods (66.6 %), increase crop productivity (89.1 %), reduction poverty (88.8 %) among others. Rural interventions for meeting energy and agri-food needs included rural electrification programmes (M=4.09), standalone off grid energy solution (M=3.91), agricultural mechanization (M=4.05), rural road/transport programmes (M=3.90) and training/retraining of both farmers and extension officers with mean of 4.08 and 3.41 respectively. Improved/clean energy facilities are provided to the rural populace by the relevant stakeholders–governments, donor agencies, NGOs, etc. for improved livelihood and food security.

3 tables, 13 ref

000821   MAHMUD A A, RAJ A, JHARIYA M K (Agriculture Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara-144 411, Punjab, Email: ranger0392@gmail.com) : Agroforestry systems in the tropics: A critical review. Agric Biol Res 2021, 37(1), 83-7.

In scientific agricultural practices, agroforestry systems are gaining wide recognition due to its healthy integration of woody perennial trees, herbaceous crops and livestock’s in unit areas which are socially acceptable, economically viable and ecologically sound. In the tropics, agroforestry system has been well established practice varies significantly from region to region depending on the levels of management inputs, structure and function of woody perennials, as well as environmental and ecological fitness of the system. The most common practices in the tropics includes; improved fallow, alley cropping, multifunctional trees on farms and rangelands, home gardens, windbreak, shelterbelts, silvopastoral grazing system, taungya farming and shaded perennial-crop system. The above-mentioned system has been well known for its potential in improving and sustaining agricultural production through increased soil fertility, climate change amelioration, breaking the current challenge of food insecurity and poverty circles, besides raising the livelihood of rural poor owing to diverse products derived from the systems such as food, fuel wood, timber and source of income. Poor policy, ineffective governance, less adoptability of systems by farmers due to unawareness is the major constraints behind success of agroforestry systems. In this context, a better and effective R&D along with scientific management of agroforestry practices not only promotes agroforestry systems but also promise better resource conservation along with maintaining soil-food-climate security at global scale.

2 tables, 59 ref

003402   SINGH D (S.K.N. Agric. Univ, Navgaon, Alwar, Rajasthan, Email: dsingh.kvk.dholpur@sknau.ac.in) : Effect of foliar spray of water- soluble fertilizer on growth and yield of chilli (Capsicum annuum). Curr Hort 2021, Vol 9 (1), 54 - 6.

The experiment was conducted to find out the effect of foliar application of water soluble fertilizers on growth and yield of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) during 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 at Bharatpur, Rajasthan. The application of recommended dose of fertilizers-NPK @ 70:48:50) + water-soluble fertilizers (polyfeed NPK19:19:19) @1% at 45 and 75 days after transplanting recorded higher yield of green chilli (93 q/ha) as compared to the control (84 q/ha). There was 10.71 % increase in yield over the control .The technology gap in productivity (7 q/ha) was computed. The technology index value (7.53 %) was recorded. The results indicated the gap existed in the potential yield and demonstration yield is due to soil fertility and weather conditions. By conducting onfarm testing of proven technology of nutrient management, yield potential of chilli can be increased. This will substantially increase the income as well as the livelihood of farming community.

2 tables, 11 ref

003401   HUSSAIN S F, MURTHY B N S, REDDY M L N, SATISHA J, UPRETI K K, LAXMAN R H (ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru - 560 089, Karnataka, Email: fkhanshaik@gmail.com) : Induction of flowering and increasing fruit yield and quality in pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. 'Bhagwa' by application of certain chemicals. Curr Hort 2021, Vol 9 (1), 50 - 3.

The field trail was conducted at ICAR- IIHR, Bengaluru to assess the effect of different chemicals (Nitrobenzene @ 1.0 ml, 1.5 ml and 2.0 ml/litre, Cycocel @ 500 ppm, 1000 ppm and 1500 ppm, Uracil @ 25 ppm and 50 ppm, Cycocel @ 1000 ppm + Uracil @ 25 ppm and Cycocel @ 1500 ppm + Uracil @ 50 ppm) on flower induction, fruiting and yield parameters in tissue cultured plant propagules of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. 'Bhagwa' during 2016-17 at ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru. The foliar application of Cycocel @ 1500 ppm gave a significantly increased number of hermaphrodite flowers (287.84) and intermediate flowers (254.14) per plant, thereby increasing the percentage of fruit setting (86.10 %) and number of fruits (156.66) per plant. Thus fruit yield (54.53 kg/plant and 21.81 tonnes/ha), fruit weight (348.32 g), fruit length (8.53 cm) and fruit volume (333.93 ml) increased significantly. Consequently, foliar application of Cycocel @ 1500 ppm led to a significant reduction in number of male flowers (219.70) produced per plant. However, fruit width was non-significant among treatments.

3 tables, 20 ref

003400   PANDEY S, THAKUR A, SINGH H (RRS Ballowal Saunkhr, Punjab - 144 521, Email: spandeyfs@pau.edu) : Evaluation of phenotypic and biochemical diversity in peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) and nectarine (Prunus persica (L) var nucipersica) cultivars in the subtropical region of Punjab. Curr Hort 2021, Vol 9 (1), 45 - 9.

The experiment was conducted to find out phenotypic variability in cultural and biochemical fruit quality traits in peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] and nectarine [Prunus persica (L.) var. nucipersica] during 2017 and 2018. The fruit length, fruit breadth and fruit weight; and fruit quality parameters, viz. flesh firmness, TSS, TA and ripening index were determined. Biochemical fruit quality traits such as ascorbic acid, total phenols, anthocyanins and relative antioxidant capacity were evaluated. Maximum fruit length (50.68 mm), total phenols (30.17 mg/ 100g FW) and relative antioxidant capacity (83.28 %) was noted in Flordaglo, whereas, Tropic Beauty recorded maximum fruit breadth (55.17 mm), fruit weight (85.04 g), flesh firmness (14.74 lbf), ripening index (15.92) and ascorbic acid content (5.15 mg/100g FW). Maximum TSS (12.57°Brix) was noted in Florda Grand, while, minimum TA (0.78 %) was recorded in Punjab nectarine. Cultivar Punjab Nectarine and Suncoast nectarine have maximum anthocyanin content (10.57 mg/100g FW). The cultivars exhibited wide phenotypic variation in cultural as well as biochemical traits. Such findings would be helpful in the future breeding programs for selecting cultivars having more health enhancing properties and good postharvest efficiency.

4 tables, 24 ref

003399   NEDUNCHEZHIYAN M, KUMAR J S, SAHOO B (Regional Centre of ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar - 751 019, Odisha, Email: mnedun@gmail.com) : Effect of weed control on growth, dry-matter production and partitioning in elephant-foot yam [Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson]. Curr Hort 2021, Vol 9 (1), 40 - 4.

A field experiment was conducted to find out the effect of weed control on growth, dry-matter production and partitioning in elephant-foot yam [Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson] during 2016 and 2017 at the Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The treatments consisted of combinations of herbicides (pre- and post-emergence), hand-weeding and weed control ground cover (WCGC) along with the control (weedy check). The treatments WCGC, 4 hand-weeding at 30, 60, 90 and 120 DAP and 2 hand-weeding at 30 and 60 DAP+glyphosate (at 90 DAP) resulted in higher plant height, canopy spread, pseudostem diameter, dry-matter accumulation in shoot, corm, root and total. Higher corm length, corm diameter and corm yield were noticed in treatments WCGC, 4 hand-weeding at 30, 60, 90 and 120 DAP and 2 hand-weeding at 30 and 60 DAP+glyphosate (at 90 DAP). The treatment control (weedy check) resulted in lower growth attributes, yield attributes and corm yield. The treatments WCGC, 4 hand-weeding at 30, 60, 90 and 120 DAP and 2 hand-weeding at 30 and 60 DAP+glyphosate (at 90 DAP) resulted in higher dry-matter and starch, and lower calcium oxalate content in corms. The treatment control (weedy check) resulted in lower dry-matter and starch, and higher calcium oxalate content in corms.

2 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

003398   GARG N, SINGH B, VAISH S, KUMAR S, ARORA S (Fruit Science Dep, IGKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, Email: dhota3@gmail.com) : Effect of growth regulators and micronutrients spray on physico-chemical properties of litchi (Litchi chinensis). Curr Hort 2021, Vol 9 (1), 36 - 9.

The experiment was conducted to find out the effect of plant growth regulator and micronutrients on physicochemical properties of litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) at the Regional Horticulture Research and Training Station, Dhaulakuan, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, dring 2014-15. The experiment consisted of 19 treatments with three replications laid out in Randomized Block Design. The growth regulators and micronutrients applied were GA₃ (T₁ = 25 ppm, T₂ = 50 ppm, T₃ = 75 ppm), CPPU (T₄ = 5 ppm, T₅ = 10 ppm, T₆ = 15 ppm), ZnSO₄ (T₇ = 0.25 %, T₈ = 0.50 %, T₉ = 0.75 %), boric acid (T₁₀ = 0.25 %, T₁₁ = 0.50 %, T₁₂ = 0.75 %), GA₃ + CPPU (T₁₃ = 25+5 ppm, T₁₄ = 50+5 ppm, T₁₅ = 75+5 ppm), Boric acid + ZnSO₄ (T₁₆ = 0.25+0.50 %, T₁₇ = 0.50+0.50 %, T₁₈ = 0.75+0.50 %) and T₁₉ the control. The growth regulators and micronutrients significantly improved all physico-chemical properties (fruit size, fruit weight, fruit volume, fruit pulp content, pulp percentage, minimum peel percentage, pulp: peel ratio, pulp: stone ratio, peel colour and juice percentage) of fruit. Of which T₂ (GA₃ 50 ppm) increased fruit size, fruit weight and volumes, Minimum peel percentage, pulp: peel ratio and peel colour were highly affected by boric acid alone or in combination with ZnSO₄.

2 tables, 17 ref

003397   GARG N, SINGH B, VAISH S, KUMAR S, ARORA S (ICAR - Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow - 226 101) : Exploring microbial community diversity of mango leaf compost. Curr Hort 2021, Vol 9 (1), 27 - 35.

A microbial consortium of 6 bacterial (Lactobacillus sp., Acetobacter sp., Saccharomyces sp., Bacillus sp., Pseudomonas sp. and Microascus sp.) and 5 fungal isolates (Aspergillus niger, A. oryzae, Fusarium solani, Trichoderma viridae and Penicillium citrinum), isolated from degrading organic substrates and having high degradative enzyme activities, was used for composting of mango leaves. It took one month for complete composting. The ready compost was subjected to physico-chemical, microbial and metagenomic analyses. The culturable bacterial and fungal isolates were purified and maintained on nutrient agar and potato dextrose agar slants and identified using 16S rDNA and ITS region sequencing. Molecular identification of cultured bacteria reflected the dominance of Bacillus subtilis along with Bacillus sp. and Microbacterium sp. The fungal isolates included Trichoderma sp,. Aspergillus niger, Acremonium sclerotigenum, Alternaria sp., Trichoderma sp. and Geotrichum candidum. Metagenomic analysis of mango (Mangifera indica) leaf compost resulted in 22842 number of total operational taxonomic units (OTU). At phylum level, 35 % and 24 % of OTUs were assigned with Ascomycota and Basidiomycota respectively. Rest belonged to unidentified phyla. At class level, 25 % and 24 % of OTUs were assigned with Sordariomycetes and Agaricomycetes, respectively. At genus level, 12 % and 10 % of OTUs were assigned with Coprinus and Zopfiella, respectively. The study indicated that despite the addition of microbial consortium, during the process of composting, microbes are coming from the environment which are helping in composting process.

3 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

003396   HALDER J, RAI A B (ICAR-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research, Varanasi - 221 305, Uttar Pradesh, Email: jaydeep.halder@gmail.com ) : Emergence of new insect pests on vegetables during the last decade: a case study. Curr Hort 2021, Vol 9 (1), 20 - 6.

With the changes in cropping system, climate and introduction of highly input-intensive high-yielding varieties/hybrids are the root cause for a shift in insect pest status in time and space, resulting in enhanced damage caused by them in the world. Many of them also act as vectors for several viral and mycoplasma diseases, aggravating the problem further. In India, yield loss due to major insect pests is varying from 30-40%. In addition to the regular pests, recently, many exotic and invasive insect pests have invaded in many parts of the countries. South American pin worm (Tuta absoluta Meyrick), solenopsis mealy bug (Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley) are few such insects. Similarly, mirid bugs (Nesidiocoris cruentatus (Ballard) and Metacanthus pulchellus Dallas), melon weevil [Acythopius curvovistris citrulli (Marshall)], white plume moth [Sphenarches caffer (Zeller)], cucumber moth (Diaphania indica) and moringa fruit borer (Noorda blitealis Walker), tortoise beetle (Cassida circumdata Herbst) are the insects which have come up in bigger way in current decade either by expanding their host horizon or increase their severity. Therefore, these emerging insect pests in vegetable ecosystem in current decade, their suitable control measures and some issues/challenges in their ecofriendly management are discussed.

1 table, 36 ref

003387   GAIKWAD P N, GAHUKAR S J, RATHOD D R, TAYNATH B S, CHAVAN R S, TUPKE A H, ZADOKAR A R, RAUT P M, KHARADE S J (Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola - 444 104, Maharashtra) : Utilization of flower waste for nutrient rich compost generation through decomposition. Annals Phytomed 2021, Vol 10 (1), 331 - 40.

Major environmental problems are because of dumping all flower waste in the land fills and revers by its more degradable nature. However, by using the flower waste as a raw material for higher nutrient rich compost generated within minimum cost of production. Therefore, this present investigation was evaluated by using pit composting of collected flower waste with various combination of the saw dust and cow dung to yield stabilized compost. Rectangular shaped five agitated pits were formed for different flower waste composting. 50 kg of flower waste in Pit (P₀ ) was used as control for present study. The mixture of the flower waste quantity with cow dung and saw dust in all other pits was 50 kg, viz., P₁ (25:20:5) kg, P₂ (30:15:5) kg, P₃ (35:10:5) kg, P₄ (40:5:5) kg, respectively. The highest temperature was recorded in P₀ pit between the ranges of 50 to 60^oC for the first ten days of composting. The compost was stabilized at appropriate mixture of flower waste, saw dust and the cow dung which shows the exact physicochemical characteristics of prepared compost. The pH of the pit P₂ was recorded 7.3 and the 3.7 mS cm^-1 electrical conductivity was observed. 33 % total organic carbon, 2.1 % total nitrogen and 13 C: N ratio was recorded in the same pit and finally among the entire pit, this proportion is good. For the stabilized flower waste compost, the appropriate flower waste proportion works a prime role in the microbial transformation for providing essential conditions to the compost it works efficiently. Growth of the microbes influenced by the temperature and for fastest degradation of organic waste, the maximum temperature was essential. Cow dung and saw dust which were in combination with flower waste which were successful at the time of pit composting.

10 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

003386   NAIDU B R T, BARNWAL M K (Plant Pathology Dep, Birsa Agricultural Univ, Ranchi - 834 006, Jharkhand) : Field evaluation of fungicides for control of blast of rice (Pyricularia grisea Sacc.). Annals Phytomed 2021, Vol 10 (1), 325 - 30.

Blast of rice disease caused by the ascomycete fungus, Magnaporthe oryzae (Hebert) Barr. (Anamorph: Pyricularia grisea Sacc.). It is one of the most devastating diseases of rice. Considering the economic importance of the disease, P. grisea can be most notorious and model species of rice diseases, causing significant reduction in yield. In vivo evaluation of fungicides against blast of rice, two sprays of Prochloraz @ 2 ml/lit was recorded to be the most efficacious fungicide in reducing lowest leaf blast disease severity of 9.1 % and neck blast incidence of 5.7 % and highest grain yield of 42.00 q/ha, highest benefit-cost ratio of 1:3.90 and net return of Rs. 14290.35 per ha. Spore appressorium and germ tube induction and cells are alive in water spray for infection and spore appressorium and germ tube death was observed in Prochloraz 45 % EC two sprays.

1 illus, 4 tables, 16 ref

003385   SOUJANYA B, KUMAR A K, BHAGWAN A, SREEDHAR M, VANISRI S, SAIDAIAH P (Horticultural Univ, Mojerla - 509 219, T.S) : Estimation of crude fiber content in different cultivars of mango (Mangifera indica L.) grown in Telangana State, India. Annals Phytomed 2021, Vol 10 (1), 319 - 24.

The experiment was carried out at the College of Horticulture, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Rajendranagar to estimate the crude fibre content in fifty mango (Table and Juicy) cultivars. Experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design and replicated thrice during 2018-19 and 2019-20. Fruits were collected from Fruit Research Station, Sangareddy. Crude fiber content was significantly (p < 0.05) varied among the different mango varieties. Highest amount of crude fibre content was recorded in the Juicy cultivar Nagulapalli Iraslu (7.04 g/100 g/100 g) while lowest in Goa Bandar (3.02 g/100) during 2018-19. Same cultivars have recorded the highest amount of crude fibre content in Nagulapalli Irsalu (6.98 g/100 g) while lowest in Goa Bandar (3.17 g/100 g) during 2019-20. Regarding pooled data, highest crude fibre was found in Nagulapalli Iraslu (7.01 g/100 g) while lowest in Goa Bandar (3.10 g/100 g). Among all the cultivars, more fibre content was presented in the Juicy cultivars compared to Table cultivars. The present study which will strongly help the consumers, dietitian and processing industry policy makers.

1 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

003384   GANESH P, KRISHNAMOORTHY A S, SANGEETHA C, NAKKEERAN S, THIRIBHUVANAMALA G, AKSHAYA S B (Plant Pathology Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore - 641 003, Tamil Nadu) : Exploration of biomolecules from Pisolithus tinctorius (Pers.) against major soilborne plant pathogens. Annals Phytomed 2021, Vol 10 (1), 311 - 8.

Pisolithus spp. is highly distributed and form mycorrhizal associations with broad range of woody plants in the forest ecosystem. It is more interesting to note that Pisolithus tinctorius is known to form mycorrhizal association with eucalyptus and promotes plant growth. Soil borne plant pathogens are main threat to both agricultural and horticultural crop causing wilt, root rot and seedling blight. P. tinctorius fruiting bodies were collected from eucalyptus plantations at Forest College and Research Institute at Mettupalayam, the morphological characterization studies revealed the presence of deeply rooted stipe bearing yellow to brownish peridium releasing brownish-black basidiospores. As an ecofriendly approach, the present study is focused on exploring biomolecules from P. tinctorius against these pathogens. The bioactive compounds of P. tinctorius MTP 1 isolate was extracted and tested for their inhibitory activity against soil-borne plant pathogens, viz., Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Sacc.) Synder and Hansen; Macrophomina phaseolina (Goid); Rhizoctonia solani (Kuhn) and Sclerotium rolfsii (Sacc). The ethyl acetate fraction of whole fruiting body (inclusive of basidiospores) extract of P. tinctorius yielded 0.2% biomolecule composite while, that mycelial mat yielded a negligible quantity of molecules. The biomolecules composite of ethyl acetate fraction of fruiting body at a concentration of 150 μl resulted in the maximum inhibition of R. solani (840 mm2 ) when tested by agar well diffusion study. In the case of M. phaseolina and F. o. f. sp. lycopersici, maximum inhibition of 790 mm2 and 680 mm2 , respectively was observed. The GC-MS analysis of biomolecules composite of ethyl acetate fraction of sporocarps indicated the presence of compounds belonging to nature of fatty acids, aromatic alcohol, and flavonoid, terpenoids and steroids of antimicrobial nature and suggests exploitation of such molecules in the management of soil-borne plant pathogens.

4 illus, 4 tables, 26 ref

003383   PRAVEEN T, KRISHNAMOORTHY A S, NAKKEERAN S, SIVAKUMAR U, AMIRTHAM D, HARIPRIYA S (Nanoscience and Technology Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore - 641 003, Tamil Nadu) : Vapour phase mediated suppression of carvone and citronellol volatiles against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycospercisi. Annals Phytomed 2021, Vol 10 (1), 307 - 10.

Volatile organic compound (VOC) from plants known to have varied potential sources for antimicrobial activity against soil-borne pathogens. To evaluate in vitro activity of compounds, the antifungal activity of volatile organic compounds of carvone and citronellol (Sigma Aldrich) against spore germination of F. oxysporum f.sp. lycopercisi were explored. The minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) was determined by vapour phase mediated antifungal assay (VMAA) using standard 96 well microtitreplates. We also investigated the nature of biological activity (Fungicidal or fungistatic) on spore germination of F. oxysporum f.sp. lycopercisi. VOCs of standard carvone inhibited the spore germination with MFC of 200 µl; which significantly correlated with volatile extract of M. spicata and effectively kills 80 % of inoculum after 2 hours of exposure. A minimum colony of inoculum (CFU/200 µl) was observed on exposure to standard carvone, volatile extract of M. spicata; which showed fungicidal in nature than standard citronellol and C. citratus volatiles. This result indicated that VOCs of standard carvone could involve in suppression of F. oxysporum f.sp. lycopercisi. Furthermore, the study is needed to describe the development of antifungal volatile formulation as a new component of biocontrol strategy.

3 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

003382   BANO H, MALIK S, BHAT M A, NAZIR N (Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar - 190 025, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir) : Impact of pollution load of water and sediment of Hokersar wetland on nutrient concentration and biochemical parameters of Trapa natans L.: An economically important plant species of Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, India. Annals Phytomed 2021, Vol 10 (1), 298 - 306.

Hokersar wetland is very important for the survival of migratory birds, but during the last four decades, the topography of the wetland has drastically changed. The wetland has reduced from 1875.04 ha in 1969 to 1300 ha in 2008 due to encroachments, sediment load carried by Doodah Ganga River and extension of willow plantations. It has shrunk and depleted due to the human settlements, domestic/ sewage pollution, pollution due to the addition of fertilizers, siltation due to floods, conversion into agricultural land, encroachments and unwanted growth of aquatic weeds, etc. Keeping these facts in view, present study titled “Impact of polluted water and sediment of Hokersar wetland on nutrient concentration and biochemical parameters of Trapa natans L.: An economically important plant species of Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, India”. In T. natans highest mean NPK content (4.07 × 10⁴ mg kg^-1, 0.35 × 10⁴ mg kg^-1 and 4.47 × 10⁴ mg kg^-1) was recorded during summer season and lowest (2.85 ×10⁴ mg kg^-1, 0.18 ×10⁴ mg kg^-1 and 2.41 ×10⁴ mg kg^-1) was recorded during autumn season. With respect to sites, highest mean NPK content was recorded at Inlet site (4.17 × 10⁴ mg kg-1, 0.30 × 10⁴ mg kg^-1 , 3.99 × 10⁴ mg kg^-1) and least at Outlet site (control site). Similar was the case with heavy metal concentration, i.e., higher concentration was recorded during summer season and lowest was recorded during autumn season. With respect to sites, highest mean heavy metal content was recorded at Inlet site and least at Outlet site (control site). The high metal concentration beyond permissible limits may damage the normal metabolism of plant. Chlorophyll ‘a’ varied from 1.95 to 2.14 mg/kg during all three seasons. The chlorophyll ‘b’ content also varied from 0.253 to 0.310 mg/kg and total chlorophyll content ranged from 2.18 to 2.46 mg/kg in three different seasons. The maximum chlorophyll ‘a’, ‘b’, and total chlorophyll contents were recorded near Trapa abundance site and the minimum values were recorded at Inlet. The concentration of carotenoid varied significantly from 1.10 to 1.29 mg/kg during the entire study period. The significant increase in the above studied parameters may be attributed to high nutrient availability in the wetland because of high pollution load.

6 illus, 4 tables, 25 ref

003381   TELUGU R K, TEHLAN S K, MOR V S, REDDY P S S, KOWSALYA N ( Seed Science and Technology Dep, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar - 124 004, Haryana) : Analysis of seed quality and vigour in fifty fennel genotypes (Foeniculum vulgare mill.). Annals Phytomed 2021, Vol 10 (1), 289 - 97.

During the years 2015-16 and 2016-17, a study was undertaken at the Lab of the Department of Seed Science and Technology at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, with fifty genotypes of fennel to examine seed quality and vigour. Fennel seeds from fifty distinct genotypes were obtained from various areas across India (Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar). The genotype HF-171 had the greatest standard germination (%) (93.00 %), seedling length (cm) (23.59 cm), dry weights of 10 seedlings (10.96 mg), vigour index-I (2194), and vigour index-II (1018). The results revealed significant variation across the fifty fennel genotypes, with HF-171, HF-173, HF-169, and HF-168 showing improved seed quality and vigour indices. As a result, these genotypes can be employed as breeding material in the future.

5 illus, 6 tables, 27 ref

003374   RAUT R, SHAJI J (Prin. K.M. Kundnani Coll of Pharmacy, Mumbai - 400 005, Maharashtra) : Isolation of ROS scavengers and development of its delivery system. Annals Phytomed 2021, Vol 10 (1), 222 - 9.

The present work was aimed at unlocking the pharmacologically active antioxidant molecules from the plant source and preserving their reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging activity in a well-planned environment with improved efficacy. Curcuminoids found in Curcuma species are multifaceted compounds containing curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin. In the present work, these were extracted efficiently from the rhizome of Curcuma longa L. with the help of statistical tools. The critical parameters like drug solvent ratio, extraction time were optimized. The identity of the compounds was confirmed with the help of instrumental techniques like HPTLC, FT-IR and HPLC. To improve solubility of sparingly soluble curcuminoids, without losing antioxidant properties was a challenge. Self-micro emulsifying delivery system (SMEDDS) was chosen as it has high drug loading capacity and is thermodynamically stable. The excipients were chosen based on solubility studies. The phase diagrams were constructed to define the formulation space. The developed delivery system was further evaluated for its permeability and ability to maintain antioxidant contents. The developed SMEDDS were able to achieve above desired quality attributes and can be marketed in future.

8 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

003372   SAIDAIAH P, RAO P S, GEETHA A, KUMAR A K, KAMALA V T (Crop Physiology Dep, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural Univ, Palem - 509 215, Nagarkurnool) : Assessment of genetic diversity based on principal component analysis in vegetable cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) germplasm. Annals Phytomed 2021, Vol 10 (1), 208 - 14.

Data on key flowering, maturity and yield attributes of 87 cowpea accessions including exotic and indigenous accessions were subjected to genotype clustering and principal component analysis (PCA) to identify diverse elite accessions for vegetable purpose. Based on PCA, PC-I, PC-II and PC-III had eigen values more than one, which contributed to 90.87 % of total cumulative variability among germplasm. PC-I followed by PC-II and PC-III contributed maximum (46.34 %, 28.40 % and 15.63 %) towards variability. The PC-I exhibited factor loadings in the positive sign for days taken to the happening of first flowering, days required to 50% of plants to flower, days taken to setting of first fruit and days to first harvest, while, except pods per plant and per plant pod yield, all other factors registered were positive towards PC-II. As many as nine traits have contributed positive factor loadings towards PC-III. Cluster analysis grouped 87 vegetable cowpea genotypes into 16 divergent clusters, cluster-II comprised a maximum of 45 genotypes followed by cluster I and XII. As many as 10 out of 16 clusters were solitary with unique genotypes revealing a greater amount of diversity among the germplasm. As confirmed by the D2  statistic,  the  maximum  diversity  was  elucidated  by  the  VI cluster genotypes against those of cluster-XVI and between clusters VII and XVI as well. The maximum uniformity was observed between cluster-IV and cluster-V. Selection of genotypes should be based on the pods formed per plant followed by days taken to 50 % flowering of plants, as their contribution for the total divergence of the germplasm was the maximum. Therefore, the investigation suggests that cross combinations between divergent accessions of cluster-V, III, and II, may lead to maximum heterosis in realizing hybrid breeding and isolation of superior breeding lines as well in vegetable cowpea breeding.

6 tables, 35 ref

003347   BHARATHI A, UMESHA C, KORUKONDA L, GADDAM R, KIMUDU G (Agronomy Dep, Naini Agricultural Institute, Prayagraj - 211 007 U.P) : Effect of levels of nitrogen and biofertilizers on growth and yield of groundnut (Arachis Hypogaea L.). Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 290 - 3.

The field experiment was conducted during Kharif season 2020 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj to study about the “Effect of Nitrogen levels and Biofertilizers on growth and yield of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)” The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design, with Nine treatments which are replicated thrice. The treatment consists of three levels of nitrogen and biofertilizers viz T1 (10Kg N/ha+ Rhizobium), T2 (10Kg N/ha + PSB), T3 (10Kg N/ha+ Rhizobium+ PSB), T4 (15Kg N/ha+ Rhizobium), T5 (15Kg N/ha+ PSB), T6 (!5Kg N/ha+ Rhizobium+ PSB), T7 (20Kg N/ha+ Rhizobium), T8 (20Kg N/ha + PSB), T9 (20Kg N/ha+ Rhizobium+ PSB), The maximum results showed in growth and yield attributing characters viz. plant height (102.19cm), dry weight (45.78g), nodules/plant (157.78), pods/plant (28.80), kernels/pod (2.07), seed index(47.06g), seed yield (2655.58 kg/ha), haulm yield (3587.20), harvest index (42.31) were recorded significantly higher in T9 (20 Kg N/ha +Rhizobium +PSB) while net returns (91858.24 Rs/ha) and B:C ratio (2.44) were also recorded in application of T9 was found to be more productive as well as economic.

4 tables, 14 ref

003346   CHALLAM C, DUTT S, SHARMA J, BAG T K, RAVEENDRAN M R, SUDHAKAR D (ICAR – Central Potato Research Institute, Shimla - 171 001, Himachal Pradesh) : Screening for iron deficient chlorosis (IDC) tolerant genotypes in potato (Solanum Tuberosum, L.) under aeroponic system. Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 283 - 9.

A study was carried out under controlled aeroponic culture for identifying IDC tolerant potato genotypes. Micro-plantlets of 15 potato genotypes were evaluated for Fe deficiency response. Two different nutrient compositions viz., Fe-sufficient (Fe-EDTA 50 mg/l) and Fe-deficient (Fe-EDTA 0mg/l) media were supplied to the root zone by periodic spraying in fine mist to keep it saturated. Morphoo-physiological and biochemical parameters such as plant height, root length, root-shoot biomass, SPAD, chlorophyll content, peroxidase and Fe content were recorded for each genotype under both conditions. Genotypes were ranked by multivariate cluster analysis. IDC tolerant genotypes, viz., CP-1435, CP-3772 and CP-3443 showed less reduction in chlorophyll, SPAD values,peroxidase and leaf Fe content compared to the susceptible genotypes. This work could result in new screening technique which can be utilized in breeding programme for preliminary identification of IDC tolerant potato genotypes.

1 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

003343   SAI D B, SINGH R, KHAN W (Agronomy Dep, Naini Agriculture Institute, Prayagraj - 211 007, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of foliar application of iron and zinc on growth and yield of finger millet (Eleusine Coracana L). Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 265 - 8.

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season 2020 at CRF (Crop research Farm), Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj, (UP.). The soil of the experimental field is sandy loam in texture, low in organic carbon and medium available nitrogen, phosphorus and low in potassium. The treatments consisted Zinc (through foliar application) viz., 0.2 % ZnSO₄ , 0.4 % ZnSO₄ and 0.6 % ZnSo₄ and (Iron through foliar application) are given at 20,40,60 Days interval viz., Control, 0.2 % FeSO4 and 0.5 % FeSO4 whose effect is observed A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2020 at CRF (Crop Research in finger millet (MR-1). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with ten treatments replicated thrice the treatment with application of 0.6 % ZnSO₄ +0.5 % FeSO₄ recorded significantly higher plant height (82.9cm), number of tillers/plant (7.87), plant dry weight (22.1g), effective tillers/plant (6.68), grain yield (3.93t/ha) and stover yield (6.03 t/ha) also recorded highest in the treatment 0.6 % ZnSO₄ + 0.5 % FeSO₄ .

2 tables, 15 ref

003342   KUMAR H D Y, PADHI J, RATH L K, SAHU G S, KUMARI M (Entomology Dep, Odisha Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar - 751 003) : Evaluation of biochemical parameters of okra germplasm for resistance against jassids, Amrasca Biguttula biguttula (ISHIDA). Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 258 - 64.

Biochemical components of okra germplasm were assessed for resistance or susceptibility to the leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida) at All India Coordinated Research Project on Vegetable Crops, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology and Central Horticultural Experiment Station, Bhubaneswar during three consecutive seasons of kharif, 2018, summer, 2019 and kharif, 2019. The results revealed that the total sugar, reducing sugar, total protein, total phenol and total chlorophyll content in different okra germplasm varied from 2.84 % to 5.51 %, 0.28 % to 0.56 %, 0.75 to 2.10 mg/g, 0.52 to 1.35 mg/ g and 1.04 to 2.29 mg/g, respectively. The okra germplasm BBSR-37, BBSR-36, Pusa A-4, BBSR-57, BBSR-3 and BBSR-4 were found to be resistant to leafhopper, with BBSR-4 being moderately resistant, BBSR-09-6 susceptible besides Pusa Sawani and BBSR-53 being highly susceptible.

3 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

003341   GOUD B S S, SINGH R, KHAN W (Agronomy Dep, Naini Agriculture Institute, Prayagraj - 211 007, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of seed inoculants and organic manures on growth and yield of organic pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.). Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 253 - 7.

A Field Experiment was conducted during Kharif 2020 at SHUATS Model of Organic Farming Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P). The Effect of seed inoculants and organic manures on growth and yield of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.). The experiment consists of 10 treatments which include seed inoculants viz., Azotobacter (25 g/kg seeds), Azospirillum (25 g/kg seeds), Azotobacter + Azosprillum and organic manures viz., FYM (12 t/ha), Poultry manure (2 t/ha), Vermicompost (4 t/ha). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with ten treatments which are replicated thrice. The treatment with the application of Azotobacter + Azospirillum + (2 t/ha) Poultry manure was produced significantly higher plant height (197.85 cm) and plant dry weight (97.47 g/plant) at harvest stages. The treatment with application of Azotobacter + Azospirillum + (2 t/ha) poultry manure was produced significantly higher No. of ears/hill (2.64), No. grain/ear (1983.33), Grain yield (4.63 t/ha) and stover yield (6.79 t/ha).

2 tables, 23 ref

003339   NIKHITHA D, SINGH R, SINGH E (Agronomy Dep, Sam Higginbottom Univ of Agriculture, Prayagraj - 211 007, U.P) : Performance of organic manures and growth regulators on growth and yield of pearl millet (Pennisetum Glaucum L.). Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 244 - 7.

A field experiment was conducted at SMOF (SHUATS Model Organic Farm), Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Allahabad, (U.P.) during Kharif-2020. The soil of experimental site was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.1), EC (0.41 ds/m), available N (225 kg/ha), available P (19.50 kg/ha) and available K (92 kg/ha). The experiment was laid out in randomized block design and having ten treatment consisted of Organic manures, viz. Farm Yard Manure (75 % N), Farm Yard Manure (100 % N), Vermicompost (75 % N), Vermicompost (100% N) and growth regulators viz., Sea weed extract (625 ml/ha/ spray), Humic acid (2.5 l/ha/spray). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design which are replicated thrice and effect was observed on Manipuri variety of Bajra. The result have shown significantly higher effect of plant height (193.61 cm), Total Dry weight (110.45 g), Number of Effective tillers (3.27), Earhead length (34.23 cm), Testweight (11.11 g), Grain yield (4.86 t/ha) and Stover yield (7.94 t/ha) and were recorded significantly higher in T8 (Vermicompost (100 % N) + Sea weed extract).

2 tables, 22 ref

003336   REDDY M V R, SINGH R, KHAN W (Agronomy Dep, Sam Higginbottom Univ of Agriculture, Prayagraj - 211 007, Uttar Pradesh) : Agronomic evaluation of spacing and nitrogen management practices on growth and yield of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 225 - 30.

The present investigation was conducted to evaluate the spacing and nitrogen management practices on growth and yield of sesame. The field experiment was carried out at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Naini Agriculture Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology, and sciences, Prayagraj during Kharif 2020. The soil of the experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.3), low organic carbon (0.57 %), available P (32.10 kg/ha), EC (0.29 ds/m), available K (346 kg/ha). Two experimental factors were taken, with spacing as one factor i.e.,30 cm x 10 cm, 45 cm x 10 cm, 60 cm x 10 cm, while levels of nitrogen management practices as the 2nd factor i.e., 100 % RDN (Recommended dose of Nitrogen), 75 % RDN + 25 % N through Bokashi + Azotobacter inoculation, 50 % RDN + 50 % N through Bokashi + Azotobacter inoculation. Both factors are structured as 9 treatment combinations which are laid in Randomized block design by replicating thrice. The results revealed that the treatment T₅ (Spacing 45cm × 10cm + 75 % RDN + 25 % N through Bokashi + Azotobacter inoculation) was recorded higher growth parameters viz. plant height (92.65 cm), Dry weight (17.92 g/plant), No. of leaves/ plant (39.87) and higher yield attributes viz. Number of capsules/plant (42.00), Number of seeds/capsule (52.67) and consequently higher Grain yield (1256.67 kg/ha), and Stover yield (2112.67 kg/ha).

3 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

003334   PRIYANKA B, SINGH R, SINGH E (Agronomy Dep, Naini Agricultural Institute, Prayagraj - 211 007, U.P) : Effect of plant geometry and nitrogen levels on growth and yield of swe et corn (Zea mays Saccharata L.). Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 218 - 21.

The field experiment was conducted during kharif season, 2020 at crop research farm Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Praygraj (U.P). the experiment was laid out in randomized block design with nine treatments replicated thrice with the different spacing (60 × 15 cm, 45 × 20 cm and 30 × 30 cm)with different combination of treatments as follows 90 kg/ha, 100 kg/ha, 120kg/ha of nitrogen,application of levels with spacing significantly influenced the growth parameters, yield attributes and yield at 80 DAS Along with spacing 45×20 cm recorded highest plant height (152.5 cm), numbers of leaves (12.1), crop growth rate (61.8), and maximum dry weight (166.8g) whereas numbers of cobs per plant (1.7cm), length of cobs per plant (16.8 cm), girth of cob (15.68 cm), no.of grain row per cob (13.6), no of seeds per row (35.7), no. of grains per cob (511), green cob yield (4.42) and stover yield (4.78) was recorded significantly higher in treatment with 45×20cm +120kg N/ha.

2 tables, 18 ref

003331   KUSHWAH S, SINGH A K, CHOWDHURY T, SONI R (Agricultural Microbiology Dep, Coll of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, (C.G.)) : Comparative effect of selected bacterial consortia on yield and yield attributes of chickpea (Cicer Arietinum L.). Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 202 - 4.

The use of PGPR for sustainable agriculture has increased very much in various parts of the world. Complex interactions between the root and associated microorganisms also improve plant growth parameters and yield. The present investigation was conducted in the Department of Agricultural Microbiology at IGKV, Raipur,(C.G.) during the rabi year 2018-19. It comprised of 10 treatments to assess the performance of chickpea under influence of individual microbes and their consortia.The maximum number of grain was observed due to the inoculation of T6 (C1+75 % NPK + Chickpea Rhizobium) 134.31 grain per plant followed by the T7 (GmR8 + 75 % NPK + Chickpea Rhizobium)117.33 grain per plant and least was recorded in control 44.67 grain per plant. The highest grain yield was recorded in 2240 kg/ha followed by 2220 and 2200 kg per ha, due to seeds inoculated with T6(C1+Rhizobium+75 % NPK), T10 (ASL4 +75 % NPK+ Chickpea Rhizobium) and T8 (AZO137+ 75 % NPK+ Chickpea Rhizobium) respectively. The lowest grain yield was 1726.67 kg per ha associated with control. The highest straw yield was noticed in 2533.30 kg/ha followed by 2466.70 kg per ha, by inoculated with T6 (C1+Rhizobium+75 % NPK) and T8 respectively, and lowest 1980 kg per ha under control.These results show the potential to use PGPR in order to improve yields in Chickpea crop in fields.

3 tables, 7 ref

003330   VARDHINI J H, SINGH S (Agronomy Dep, Naini Agricultural Institute, Prayagraj - 211 007, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of gibberellic acid and gypsum on growth and yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.). Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (2), 196 - 201.

A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2020 at Crop Research Farm of SHUATS, Prayagraj to know the effect of Gibberellic and Gypsum on growth and yield of Groundnut. The experiment consisted of 12 treatments which includes 2 levels of gibberellic acid (GA₃ 50 and 100ppm) and 3 levels of gypsum(200,250,300 kg/ha). The treatment receiving GA₃ 100 ppm produced significantly higher plant height (109.16cm), No. of nodules per plant (53.93), Plant dry weight (56.73g) and GA₃ 100ppm +Gypsum 300 kg/ha produced significantly higher number of pods per plant (21.31), number of kernels per pod (2.10), Seed yield (2.68t/ha) and Haulm yield (4.37t/ha) however, Gross return (2,07,642.89 INR/ha), Net return (1,36,627.69 INR/ha) and B:C ratio (1.92) was also obtained maximum with the application GA₃ 100ppm +Gypsum 300kg/ha. This experiment showed treatment receiving GA₃ 100ppm+Gypsum 300kg/ha was more productive and economic.

2 tables, 20 ref

003315   SANGEETHA, GANGAPPA M G, BHATTA R (Agricultural Economics Dep, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore - 560 065, Karnataka) : Access and benefit sharing (ABS) of bio-resources: Extent of awareness among the stakeholders in India. Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (1), 96 - 8.

Nagoya Protocol provides for the fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from the utilization of bio-resources, the complexity of the regulations always acted as a barrier to reap the benefits of bioresource utilization. The present study has analyzed the extent of awareness about the ABS among different stakeholders. A multi stakeholder approach was adopted to determine the awareness at each level of implementing the ABS and an ABS Awareness Index was developed. The lack of knowledge about ABS was found high among local communities, traditional knowledge holders who are the custodians of the bioresource and its associated traditional knowledge. Results revealed a low to medium level of awareness about ABS and its provisions among the stakeholders.

1 illus, 1 table, 2 ref

003312   MIDDYA R, ISLAM1 S, MONDAL B (Plant Pathology Dep, Palli-Siksha Bhavana (Institute of Agriculture), Sriniketan, West Bengal) : Effect of fungicides and bio-botanicals on lesion development of late and early blight of potato in field condition. Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (1), 77 - 83.

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L., family Solanaceae) is an important cash crop throughout the world. The crop is suffering from number of diseases among which late and early blight of potato appear frequently in the field every year and cause maximum damage to the crop under West Bengal conditions. To minimize the diseases, field experiments were conducted at Benuria (Birbhum) during 2016-2017 under Red and Lateritic Agro-climatic Zone of West Bengal. The leaves of potato (cv. Kufri Jyoti) with typical late and early blight lesions were identified and tagged accordingly in the field. The total leaf area and initial lesion size of the selected leaves were measured using graph paper. The experiment was set up with RBD comprising of nine treatments and four replications. Suspension of different fungicides, biological agent and biobotanicals were prepared and applied at its field dose on the leaves with a hand sprayer. Expanded size was measured at every 4 days interval in both untreated and treated leaves. In late blight, the highest lesion expansion was observed in untreated control (71.77%) followed by Nimastra (65.89 %) and Agneaastra (57.65 %). It was significantly lower in Ethaboxam (3.41 %) followed by FolioGold (9.69 %) and Ishaan (10.73 %). There was little variation between Indofil M-45 (25.20 %) and Trichosol (25.63 %). In case of early blight, increased size of the lesions measured after 4 days of spraying and it was highest in untreated control (60.02 %) followed by Agneaastra (32.50 %). Lesion expansion was significantly lower in Folio Gold (1.52 %) followed by Ishaan (3.11 %), Indofil M-45 (3.64 %), Ethaboxam (6.20 %) and Trichosol (6.82 %).

3 tables, 14 ref

003310   MAHTO R K, CHOUDHURY N, GOVIND M (Agriculture Dep, AISECT Univ, Hazaribagh - 825 301, Jharkhand) : Impact of climate change on rice production in Jharkhand. Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (1), 66 - 71.

Climate change is one of the greatest challenges faced by the global community today. The analysis of past changes and current irregular behavior in climatic events shows that changes being experienced in the climate of Jharkhand are the proof of natural climate variability prevailing in the state. Previous studies for the state show that the Jharkhand is in precarious situation due to its high climate sensitivity and vulnerability, combined with low adaptive capacity. Climatic alternation in Jharkhand is becoming fairly perceptible and the changes are far more evident than in other part of the Jharkhand. As a result of climate change extreme abiotic factor like high and low temperature, salinity, osmotic stress, heavy rain, floods and forest damages are posing serious threats to rice production. Mitigation, adaptaion and developing resistant varieties of rice may be more productive under these changing climatic conditions. The present investigation provides an overview of the recent evidence.

8 ref

003308   LOSO S, SUDRADJAT, HARIYADI, YAHYA S, SUTANDI A (IPB Univ, Bogor 16680, Indonesia) : The role of several methods of drainage and fertilization levels on growth and yield of oil palm plants (Elaeisguineensis Jacq.). Asian Jr of Microbiol Biotech Env Sc 2021, Vol 23 (1), 51 - 60.

Oil palm is a plantation commodity that requires sufficient nutrients and drainage management to produce high productivity requires the application of good cultivation technology. The cultivation technology that needs to be applied in oil palm plantations is the role of several drainage methods and the proper level of inorganic fertilization. This research aims to study the role of several drainage methods and appropriate levels of fertilization to improve soil physical and chemical properties, morphology and physiology, and increase oil palm productivity. The experiment was carried out from October 2014 to December 2016 at the IPB-Cargill Oil Palm Education and Research Garden, Jonggol, Bogor, using a twofactor separate plot design with three replications.The main plot is improvement of drainage consisting of natural conditions, biopore holes, drain ditches, and heap footprint. Subplots were fertilization doses consisting of 25, 50, 75, and 100% recommended doses. The recommended dosage is 500 g nitrogen (N) + 250 g phosphate (P) + 500 g potassium (K) plant-1 six months^-1. The fertilizer rate at 2^nd Year of experiment were : 1,000 g nitrogen + 500 g P + 1,000 g K plant^-1 six months^-1. The results showed that the biopore treatment and 100% recommended dose could increase the soil moisture content, the addition of fronds, the greenness of the leaves, and the stomata density. The interaction of biopore and 100 % recommended fertilization rate was the best treatment combination to increase the productivity of oil palm which could produce 18.93 ton ha^-1 year^-1 fresh fruit bunch (FFB) at 46 months after planting.

9 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

003231   TELAVE A B, JAGTAP A S, CHANDANKAR S R (Statistics Dep, Tuljaram Chaturchand Coll of Arts, Science and Commerce, Pune - 413 102) : Mineral composition of avicennia and sonneratia species form coastal Maharashtra, and it's interpretation through box plot- statisticaltool. Bioinfolet 2021, 18 (1 A), 8 - 12.

An attempt has been made during present investigation to collect and interpret data on mineral composition of two mangroves Avicennia sp. and Sonneratiasp. growing in the coastal area of Maharashtra State. The use of box and whisker plot was found to be suitable for presentation of the data.

2 illus, 4 tables, 5 ref

003230   DEVI I S, SUNANDINI G P, SOWJANYA B, KUMAR P S (Agricultural Economics Dep, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural Univ, Telangana - 500 030) : Economic analysis of growth and instability of rice production In Telangana state. Bioinfolet 2021, 18 (1 A), 3 - 7.

The study has been taken up with the objective of investigating the trends, pattern of growth and the extent of instability in area, production and productivity of rice crop in Telangana state over a period of sixty years from 1959-60 to 2018-19. Compound Growth Rate and Coefficient of Variation were used to calculate annual growth rate and instability. The districts were classified under different productivity groups and contribution of these districts to the states rice production was calculated. The area, production and productivity of rice in this period increased by 76,406 and 184 per cent respectively. During study period, many of the districts moved from very low to high productivity group. During 2016-2019, 48 and 41 per cent of rice area was under high and high-medium productivity groups respectively and contributed about 52 and 39 per cent of the total rice production in the state. Instability was higher in production and area, than in productivity.

5 tables, 11 ref

003229   SINGH S K, SINGH A P, SINGH R N (Entomology and Agricultural Zoology Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi - 221 005) : Effect of pesticides on two spotted spider mite, tetranychus urticae koch.. Bioinfolet 2021, 18 (1 A), 1 - 2.

Present investigation was undertaken to evaluate efficacy of 10 pesticides against motile stages of the two spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch on okra under poly house condition during kharif season of 2013- 14. It was observed that Clofentazine 50SC, Cyflumetofen 20SC and Fenpyroximate 5EC were most effective against all the stages of two spotted red spider mite.

4 ref

000799   GOVINDARAJ P, MAHADEVASWAMY H K (ICAR – Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, Email: govindsbi1912@gmail.com) : Collection, characterization and diversity analysis of new wild sugarcane germplasm collected from Western Ghats: A rich biodiversity spot in India. Sugar Tech 2021, 23(3), 484-98.

Western Ghats in India with diverse climatic condition and different types of vegetation covering the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Goa and Maharashtra, is a biodiversity hot spot. This important area was not explored earlier for sugarcane wild genetic resources. Targeted explorations in these areas resulted in the collection of 39 Saccharum spontaneum (3 in Tamil Nadu, 5 in Kerala, 9 in Karnataka, 4 in Goa and 18 in Maharashtra), 11 Erianthus arundinaceus (3 in Tamil Nadu, 6 in Kerala, 1 in Goa and 1 in Maharashtra), 3 Erianthus bengalense (1 in Tamil Nadu and 2 in Goa) and 2 Saccharum officinarum (one each in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka). S. spontaneum was distributed throughout the regions, while Erianthus species were abundant in Kerala, Goa and Tamil Nadu. S. spontaneum exhibited wide variation for different traits like plant height (312 to 45 cm), leaf length (102 to 21 cm), leaf width (1.3 to 0.2 cm), peduncle length (59 to 16 cm), arrow length (46 to 14 cm), internode length (15.3 to 4.5) and cane diameter (0.8 to 0.3 cm). E. arundinaceus also showed wide range for plant height (631 to 192 cm), leaf width (5.7 to 3.8 cm) and internode length (8.5 to 17 cm). Cluster analysis grouped the germplasm into four clusters, and 97% of the S. spontaneum grouped into Cluster IV. Cluster III had three accessions and all were E. bengalense, while most of the E. arundinaceus accessions were grouped into Cluster I. Genetic diversity of the new germplasm collected and their utilization in sugarcane genetic improvement programme are discussed.

8 illus, 6 tables, 51 ref

000798   AMORIM F R, QUEIROZ T R, OLIVEIRA S C, LOURENZANI W L (Sao Paulo State Univ, Sao Paulo, Brazil, Email: fernando.amorim@unesp.br) : Cultivation practices of sugarcane: an analysis of the competitiveness of sugarcane suppliers in Brazil. Sugar Tech 2021, 23(3), 476-83.

To ensure the competitiveness of sugarcane production chains, it is necessary to invest in new technologies and management practices at all stages of production, especially in cultivation practices. The question arises as to which production system presents the best competitiveness index (CI) for the sugarcane crop in Brazil. Thus, scientific studies are required for management and provide inputs for the maximization of productivity; total recoverable sugar; sugarcane cutting medium; and the minimization of average total costs cultivation practices of sugarcane. The aim of this study is to analyze the cultivation practices of sugarcane through competitiveness indexes. In this study, 55 suppliers from the Central-South region in Brazil provided data for the 2019/2020 season. The questionnaire was validated through an initial application and approved in the first round using the Delphi technique. A CI was raised to determine the best production system and for descriptive analysis and to evaluate the Spearman’s correlation profile of systems used by suppliers. The results revealed that in cultivation practice, the use of variable rate decreased the cost of production, whereas fixed rate increased profit maximization. The suppliers produced 88 tons/ha, which was greater than the average production in Brazil.

5 tables, 17 ref