Horizon e-Publishing Group (HePG): E-Journals
Not a member yet
2977 research outputs found
Sort by
The soil nutrient status of Shirpur taluka of Dhule district, Maharashtra
No full textSoil and water are the most important natural resources and all the basic needs of human beings and plants depend on these natural resources. Soil testing is an essential method for evaluating the soil\u27s nutrient-supplying capacity. In the present study, 37 soil samples were collected from different locations of Tajpuri and Hisale villages of Shirpur Taluka, Dhule district. The chemical parameters such as soil pH, EC, organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium from soil were determined by using standard procedures. The result shows that the pH of all the soil samples from both the villages was reported in the neutral to alkaline range with mean values of both the villages Hisale and Tajpuri were 7.47 and EC were in normal range with mean values of 0.27 dSm-1 and 0.25 dSm-1 and fit for crop production. The organic carbon content in both villages found in the medium range with the mean of Hisale and Tajpuri villages were 0.59 % and 0.60 %. In Hisale village the available nitrogen and a greater number of samples were in low range, available phosphorus and potassium in medium range. Concern to Tajpuri village most of the samples of available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were in medium range
Comparative analysis of natural and supplemental pollination through pollen suspension on neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) fruit set and morphological characteristics
No full textA supplemental pollination system is crucial when natural pollinators are unavailable or unreliable, as alternative management strategies are necessary to ensure adequate pollination in pollination-dependent trees. Supplemental pollination controls pollen quantity, timing and frequency, resulting in increased yields, improved fruit quality and reduced fruit abortion. In a comparative study of pollination methods, hand pollination using a brush yielded the highest fertilization rate (5.54 ± 0.03 %), followed by a 1 % pollen mixture with 0.2 M basal sucrose solution and 0.01 % Gelrite (5.09 ± 0.21 %). A mixture of 1 % pollen grains with 10 ppm boric acid produced a fertilization rate of 4.75 ± 0.14 %. Hand pollination resulted in the highest fruit production, with 313 ± 43 fruits, while the sucrose solution treatment yielded 287 ± 8 fruits and the boric acid treatment produced 273 ± 12 fruits. In contrast, closed pollination recorded the lowest yield, with only 14 ± 7 fruits. Morphological assessments of neem fruits and seeds revealed that the boric acid treatment (1 % pollen grains and 10 ppm boric acid) achieved the best results, producing the most significant fruits and seeds. Conversely, the sucrose solution and Gelrite treatment showed the lowest values for fruit weight and fruit-to-seed ratio, highlighting the effectiveness of boric acid in enhancing neem fruit and seed morphology
Assessment of different weed management practices on weed dynamics, growth and yield of Dill (Anethum graveolens L.)
No full textDill (Anethum graveolens L.), a medicinal and seed spice crop, highly susceptible to weed competition due to its slow early growth, resulting in a significant production loss. Weed management is critical for improving crop output and quality. A two-season rabi 2020-21 & 2021-22 field experiment was conducted on the Agronomy Farm at Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology in Udaipur, Rajasthan to assess the impact of various weed management practices on weed dynamics, growth characteristics and yield. The study used a randomized block design with thirteen treatments, including pre-emergence (PE) and post-emergence (POE) herbicides, inter-cultivation and hand weeding. Pre-emergence spraying of oxadiargyl at 100 g ha-1 reduced weed density and dry matter accumulation, resulting in the maximum weed control efficiency (93.09 %) at 30 days after sowing (DAS). The use of oxadiargyl at 75 g ha-1 PE followed by hand weeding at 40 DAS, resulted in maximum biological yield to the tune of 35.3 per cent over weedy check. The combination of chemical and manual weed control was critical as it increased resource efficiency by lowering competition for nutrient, moisture and light availability, resulting in increased growth and seed yields. The research has implications for promoting integrated weed management (IWM) of dill in which a combination of herbicides and manual approaches best suppress weeds while maximizing crop performance. This becomes a more sustainable and economically viable choice for growers, reducing work intensity while minimizing long-term labour use and improving long-term weed management and production potential
Influence of fatty acid contents and biochemical changes during storage of groundnut varieties cultivated in Tamil Nadu, India
No full textGroundnut varieties lose their physical and nutritional qualities during post-harvest storage, although their yield is high. In this study, we assessed the fatty acid profile and changes in their content and their influence on the seed quality of groundnut varieties (TMV 13, TMV 14, CO 6, VRI 8 and BSR 2) cultivated in Tamil Nadu, India, under normal storage conditions (with moisture content <8 %). In all varieties, the electrical conductivity (EC) of seed leachate, free fatty acids and lipid peroxidation were increased with age, accompanied by decreased levels of phytate content, germination percentage and vigor index. However, the seed weight, total oil and protein contents were not considerably altered up to 7 months in all varieties. Among the varieties, VRI 8, TMV 13 and TMV 14 had less upsurge of EC (44 - 47 % increase), an indicator of membrane integrity, after seven months, but CO 6 (88.67 % increase) and BSR 2 (86.89 %) showed high EC values. The oleate/linoleate ratio was high in VRI 8 (2:1) and low in BSR 2 (1.27:1). The varieties with high oleate, VRI 8 (50.68 %) and TMV 13 (49.28 %), can be stored (with >70 % germinability) for 5-6 months, whereas CO 6, with low oleate content (42.0 %), lost its germinability (below 65 %) and vigor within 3-4 months in ambient conditions. In addition, phytate, a suppressor of oxidative reactions, was relatively high in TMV 13 and TMV 14 and low in CO 6 after 5 months. Our study reveals that all varieties (VRI 8, TMV 13, TMV 14, BSR 2) with moisture content <8 %, except CO 6, can be stored for up to five months with minimum germination standards and without loss of oil and protein contents
Market analysis of micro-irrigation systems in Vellore district, South India
No full textThis study examines the micro-irrigation system market in Vellore district, Tamil Nadu, India, focusing on adoption trends and market dynamics. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire from 90 farmers across different blocks and analysed alongside data from major micro-irrigation companies (anonymized as Firm A, Firm B, Firm C, Firm D and Firm E). Water scarcity emerged as the primary driver of micro-irrigation adoption, with farmers seeking to conserve resources. Another key factor is labour reduction, as micro-irrigation systems streamline processes and minimize manual effort. M/S Firm A leads the market with a 32.7 % share, followed by Firm B (30.76 %), Firm D (25 %) and Firm C (11.53 %). Despite Firm A’s dominance, cost variations of up to 20 % among companies influence farmers’ purchasing decisions based on affordability and perceived value. The study highlights micro-irrigation’s potential to enhance agricultural productivity and water-use efficiency by delivering water directly to plant roots, minimizing wastage. Promoting affordable technologies and strengthening extension services can equip farmers with the skills needed to maximize these benefits. Additionally, fostering a supportive policy environment can encourage wider adoption. This research offers valuable insights for policymakers, companies and farmers, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to enhance sustainable In India, the adoption of micro-irrigation has been encouraged through various government schemes aimed at improving on-farm water management practices and improve agricultural outcomes in Vellore district. Addressing key drivers and barriers can help create a more efficient and productive agricultural sector in the region
A review on phytochemistry, ethnobotany and pharmacology of Lantana camara L.
No full textLantana camara L., is a versatile plant belongs to the family Verbenaceae. It is indigenous to the Americas and is extensively distributed in tropical and subtropical areas. Despite its ecological challenges as an invasive species, it provides various benefits. This review explores its origin, distribution and adaptability to diverse ecosystems. The plant contains bioactive compounds like terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolics and alkaloids, which are extracted through solvent extraction and steam distillation. These substances have strong biological properties, such as antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer properties. L. camara has ethnomedicinal value and is being studied for its potential in treating conditions like inflammation, diabetes, ulcers and wounds. Its rapid growth and resilient seeds make it difficult to control, requiring targeted management strategies. Nevertheless, the plant offers ecological benefits, enriching soil nitrogen and supporting carbon sequestration. Industrially, L. camara provides resources like oleanolic acid, carboxymethylcellulose and biomass for bioethanol and biogas production. Its fibres reinforce biomaterials and its extract is used to treat bovine dermatophilosis. The plant’s biomass has the potential for bio-energy, furniture making, basket weaving and insect repellents, offering sustainable solutions for cottage industries. This review highlights how L. camara, despite its invasiveness, can be harnessed for ecological and industrial applications
Molecular characterization of Indian paddy varieties using SSR markers and unveiling G × E interactions of paddy varieties under the Cauvery Delta region
No full textTwenty-eight popular paddy varieties released and notified throughout India between 1976 and 2015 were molecularly characterized using SSR markers. The lab analysis was conducted at the Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University and stability study over three locations under the Cauvery Delta region during December 2022 to May 2023. The results showed that nine SSR primers were polymorphic and PIC values varied from 0.363 to 0.551, while the marker RM 118 had the highest PIC value (0.551). The range of the detected heterozygosity was 0.304 to 0.622. Neis’ genetic distance created the dendrogram, which divided the varieties into seven clusters. According to Neis’ genetic measure, variety G8 (ADT 39) from cluster I and G15 (TKM 9) from cluster VII confirmed the degree of genetic diversity among the varieties studied. From molecular genetic diversity, nine high-yielding varieties were chosen based on grain yield per plant and subjected to stability analysis in three different environments. Significant genotype × environment interaction was observed for all the characters; hence, these varieties\u27 stability was assessed. Variety, G9 (ADT 48) showed non-significant S2di and regression coefficient value around unity with high mean for days to first flowering, grain length and grain yield per plant and plotted under group I in genotype grouping technique. Varieties viz., G8 (ADT 37), G9 (ADT 48), G15 (TKM 9) and G16 (MDU 6) are the most stable and acceptable for both favourable and unfavourable environments. It showed stability factor around unity for grain yield per plant and they will be selected as parents to develop stress-tolerant varieties
Advancing pulse crop resilience: Leveraging DSSAT for climate-smart agriculture: A comprehensive review
No full textClimate change significantly threatens pulse crop production, particularly C? crops like chickpeas, pigeonpeas, lentils and blackgram, which are highly sensitive to rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns. Even brief exposure to heat stress during critical growth stages can cause substantial yield losses. Integrating advanced information technologies and geospatial tools into agricultural decision-making is crucial to mitigate these challenges. The Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer (DSSAT) has emerged as a powerful crop simulation model that aids in assessing and mitigating climate change impacts on pulse crops. This review explores the role of DSSAT in climate-smart agriculture by integrating soil, weather and crop management data for precise yield predictions. By simulating diverse climatic scenarios, DSSAT facilitates the development of adaptive strategies, including selecting heat-tolerant genotypes, optimizing sowing dates and improving irrigation and nutrient management. Moreover, DSSATs’ ability to evaluate extreme weather events such as droughts and heatwaves enhances its application in risk assessment and sustainable agricultural planning. Despite its advantages, challenges such as data availability, model calibration and regional specificity hinder its widespread adoption. Integrating DSSAT with remote sensing, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) algorithms further enhances its predictive capabilities, making it a more robust tool for climate-resilient pulse production. By leveraging DSSATs’ potential, policymakers, researchers and farmers can develop climate-smart strategies to ensure sustainable pulse production and food security under changing climatic conditions
Augmentation of nutritional security through millets in Second Green Revolution
No full textMillets are highly resilient crops that can thrive in diverse climatic conditions and marginal lands with minimal water and input requirements. As the world faces the challenges of climate change, population growth and food insecurity. Millets have emerged as promising crops for sustainable agriculture and a potential crop of the Second Green Revolution, which focuses on rainfed agriculture. These crops offer several advantages firstly, their ability to withstand climate fluctuations and suitability for rainfed conditions make them a climate-smart solution for crop production in the face of prolonged droughts and changing weather patterns. Secondly millets are nutritionally rich containing essential micronutrients and dietary fibres which can help address the prevalent issue of malnutrition in many parts of the world. However, the mainstream adoption of millets faces several challenges including limited research and development inadequate infrastructure and insufficient market integration. To unlock the full potential of millets in the Second Green Revolution a comprehensive approach is required encompassing research, policy support, market development and consumer awareness. By harnessing the unique features of millets, the agricultural sector can move towards a more sustainable, resilient and inclusive future contributing significantly to global food security and nutrition goals. These crops offer a promising solution to address the challenges posed by climate change and population growth while promoting sustainable and nutritious food production
Antidiabetic action of prebiotic convenient food mixes: An in vivo rat study
No full textDiabetes is a chronic multi-system disease having long term health consequences. This study investigated the role of multi millet enriched prebiotic convenient food mixes in alleviating the diabetic complications in induced diabetic rats. The multi millets and leafy vegetables viz., drumstick leaves (Moringa oleifera) and spinach leaves (Spinacia oleracea) were used to formulate convenient food mixes namely chappathi and dosa mix as well as evaluated the antidiabetic effect of these mixes in alloxan induced diabetic albino rats. All the developed four mixes are scored higher acceptability and provided with high amounts of fibre, iron and beta carotene. The study comprises 6 groups of 6 animals each. Group 1 served as non-diabetic control, Group 2 as diabetic control and groups 3, 4, 5 and 6 served as treatment groups. Diabetic was induced in rats by administration of alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg) through the intra peritoneal route. Treatment groups (G3 - G6) received diet of (100 mg/kg of body weight) multi millets drumstick leaves chappathi mix (T1); multi millet spinach leaves chappathi mix (T2); multi millet drumstick dosa mix (T3) and multi millet spinach leaves dosa mix (T4) respectively. After the 28 days of treatment, diabetic rats showed a highly significant (p>0.0001) reduction in blood glucose levels when compared to diabetic control and non-diabetic groups. The study showed the multi millets and leafy vegetable based instant mixes have an effective antidiabetic property which controls the blood glucose levels in the rats and this study will create a new avenue to formulate the special convenient food mixes for diabetic people