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Year: 2022, Volume: 10, Issue: 2

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Title: Adoption Behaviour of Awardee Farmers of Department of Agriculture Development and Farmers’ Welfare in Southern Kerala

By: Reshma R S and G S Sreedaya

  • Abstract

    The study was conducted in the Thiruvananthapuram and Pathanamthitta districts of Kerala to study the adoption behaviour of awardee farmers. Altogether, 70 awardee farmers, 35 each from the two districts constituted the sample. A list of farming practices in coconut, rice, banana and vegetables were selected from package of practices recommendations of Kerala Agricultural University to study the adoption behaviour of awardee farmers. The statements on recommended practices were administered to awardee farmers and it was measured as no adoption, partial adoption, full adoption and modified adoption. The results showed that majority of the awardee farmers belonged to the medium to the high category of adoption behaviour. Profile characteristics like farming experience, decision making ability, dealing with failure, creativity, credit orientation and training acquired had a significant relationship with adoption behaviour.

    Key Words: Awardee farmers, Adoption behaviour, Package of practices recommendations, decision making ability, dealing with failure, creativity, credit orientation.

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Title: Adoption, Learning and Enhancement of Knowledge of Dairy Farming Practices: An Impact Assessment

By: Rajesh Kumar Chander1 and Ram Chand

  • Abstract

    Agriculture in varied forms is practiced as mixed farming in combination with livestock which has, so far, been supplementing farmers income tremendously. To enhance the productivity of milk further, training and development of trainees are extremely pivotal. This paper discusses the comprehensive feedback of 270 ex-trainees who had participated in the 15 days specialized training at 8 different dairy training extension centers, which was studied through a structured interview schedule, perception survey and likert scale, etc. Before the collection of data, the interview schedule was pre-tested. After participating in the said training, majority of the respondents witnessed an excellent level of gain inknowledge regarding various dairy farming practices, for instance, had adopted production of clean milk techniques (78.51%), balanced feeding (75.18%) and deworming (72.59%), and had also exhibited good level of retention of knowledge of dairy practices. About half of the respondents were highly satisfied with the management of the training and, the timings of the training were well managed by the trainers.
    Key Words: Adoption, Development, Learning, Productivity, Retention, Women Empowermen

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Title: Assessment of Occupational Stress of Teaching Professionals during Covid-19 Pandemic

By: Gayatri Moharana and Ritu Gupta

  • Abstract

    The COVID-19 showed worldwide impact on educational sector. The schools lock all across the countries and the mode of teaching was online which impacted on teaching and learning process. It also affected the physical, socio-emotional and mental health of the teachers due to work related stress during the pandemic. A study was conducted to determine the problems responsible for occupational stress of the teachers working in different government and private schools of Odisha. The information collected through filling of onlinequestionnaire. The data revealed that the timing of online class was not suitable for 77.78 per cent teachers  as they were performing duties from home and simultaneously taking care of their children. While dealing with students in online platform, 88.89 percent teachers faced difficulties. About 63.33 per cent of the respondents complained about pain in neck and shoulders. Maximum participants (90%) reported feeling vulnerable because of physical and mental health stress along with family burden and unknown fear factor  of consequences of corona disease. Impact of fear of Covid 19 on physical and psychological health was
    got the highest mean rank which was reported by 90 per cent of the respondents. The effect of very hectic schedules of job created stress as expressed by 86.67 per cent respondents considered in mean rank II. These may be due to the work related digital teaching and working environment, work load, lifestyles etc. involving family tensions and financial insecurities. These may develop a number of problems such as anxiety, depression or stress and responsible for occupational stress among teachers during Covid 19 pandemic.
    Key Words: Health, Occupation, Online, Physical, Psychological, Stress, Teaching

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Title: Awareness of Green Consumerism among Working and Non-Working Women of Faridabad City

By: Shifali Sharma and Amarjit Kaur

  • Abstract

    Green Consumerism is basically pro-environmental consumer thought and culture with strong sense of environmental responsibility and concern for eco-system. The present study aims to know that the awareness regarding green consumerism among working and non working women of Faridabad city. It is based in a survey of women respondents working in different sectors and non-working women of different educational level from Faridabad City. Information was gathered from 500 respondents which includes 250 from working and 250 non working women through distributed questionnaires which tested the knowledge of the respondents regarding green consumerism, green and non green products and selected eco-marks. The results indicated that the level of awareness about green consumerism varied significantly with occupation, family size, educational qualification, income level and nature of job. Since, the exposure and accessibility of eco-products observed to be more among working women; the awareness level of green consumerism increased significantly with increase in educational qualification of the sample women. It was also
    revealed that doctors, engineers, IT professional and bank employees have depicted higher level of green consumerism as compared to other section of the society. Therefore, the people of all section of the society should be educated about the green consumerism to control the emerging problem of environment pollution.

    KeyWords: Eco-label, Eco-friendly ,Green Consumerism, Pro-environment.

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Title: Broad Pattern and Reason of Sheep Rearing: A study on sheep Farming in Kashmir

By: Sheikh Shubeena, Abdul Hai and S AHamdani

  • Abstract

    The study was undertaken in the Ganderbal district of the Jammu and Kashmir. Ganderbal district is rich in the mountainous alpine pastures and sheep rearing is the core activity of people living in the high altitudes. There are three Zones based on the altitude and from each Zone, 120 sheep farmers were chosen making a total of 360 for this study. The sheep rearing in the district was divided into two main phases i.e., Migratory and Non-Migratory. Migratory phase is spent on the high alpine pastures of the district and non-migratory phase mild grazing and stall feeding is done. The main reason for the farmers choosing sheep farming as an occupation was the proliferation of the sheep followed by adaptability of the sheep to Kashmir and family business of the farmers. The least preferred reason for farmers to rear sheep include least expensive to start and easier to manage. Infact, there is need for the conservation
    of the high land pastures scientifically because they form the backbone of sheep rearing in Kashmir.

    Key Words: Alpine pastures, Migration, Proliferation, Reasons, Sheep rearing

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Title: Comparative Study on Sensory Analysis of Banana Fig Prepared from Three Varieties

By: Chingtham Chanbisana and Asis Kumar Banik

  • Abstract

    A study was conducted in the laboratory of Post Harvest Technology of Horticultural Crops, Bidhan  Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur regarding sensory analysis of dehydrated banana (banana fig) prepared three varieties of banana namely Martaman, Grand Naine and Sinduri Harichal with two concentration of potassium metabisulphite (KMS) to prevent discolouration and prolong shelf life. Periodical analysis for sensory characteristics for taste, colour and overall acceptability was done at 15 days interval during the storage period of 2 months to determine the best variety treatment for the preparation of banana fig. During the storage study, the highest score for taste, colour and overall
    acceptability was observed in V1T1 (Giant Governor+ blanching). Since the product has good sensory characteristics for 2 months, further research work may be carried out to further extend the shelf life of banana fig from locally available banana varieties to increase farmer income and reduce post harvest loss.

    Key Words: Colour, Grand Naine, Martaman, Sensory analysis, Sinduri Harichal, Taste.

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Title: Characteristics Influencing the Aspirations of Agricultural Graduates in Gujarat

By: Laveti Mohini Devi, Minaxi Bariya and N B Jadav

  • Abstract

    Aspiration is a strong desire to achieve something which helps us to reach our goal. A study was conducted in all the four State Agricultural Universities of Gujarat to know the aspirations of agricultural graduates and to find out the characteristics that influence their aspirations. One college from each university and thirty agricultural graduates from each college were selected randomly. Thus, the total sample size was 120 agricultural graduates. The study was conducted using a questionnaire through google form. The study revealed that the most preferred aspiration of agricultural graduates was to pursue higher studies followed by securing a job. Academic performance, mass media exposure, achievement motivation, economic motivation and risk orientation had a positive and highly significant relationship; Parental occupation, annual income and self-confidence had a positive and significant relationship;
    Age, place of residence, size of land holding and agricultural business anxiety had a positive and non-significant relationship, whereas family type and family size had a negative and non-significant relationship with aspirations of agricultural graduates. This study will be helpful for the agricultural universities to know the extent of aspirations and to develop new plans and policies accordingly.
    Key Words: Agriculture, Aspirations, Career, Education, Graduates.

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Title: Characterization of Climate Resilient Juicy Traditional Mango (Mangifera indica) Varieties

By: Bindu B and Renjan B

  • Abstract

    Mango’s flowering and fruit set are highly dependent on climatic conditions prevailing in a that particular  area. Recently climate change studies have become increasingly important for understanding the flowering of mango under different climatic conditions. Many traditional mango cultivars are seemed to resist the change in climatic situations. Most of the introduced varieties and hybrids are not performing well under changed climatic situations and also highly susceptible to pests and diseases. Hence, a study was conducted at the Farming Systems Research Station, Sadanandapuram, Kerala Agricultural University with an objective of identifying, characterization and evaluation of climate
    resilient mango varieties from Southern Kerala. Twenty five juicy type traditional mangoes were identified during the study. Fruit weight of these mangoes varied from 93g to 552g, number of fruits varied from 100 to 1500 numbers. Highest TSS (26.200 brix) was reported from accession PTA-1 and lowest acidity of 0.306 % was reported from KLM-10. Highest carotenoid content of 5.21 mg/100g was reported from KLM- 5, highest ascorbic acid content of 28.21 mg/100g was reported from KLM1. The study also revealed that highest total sugar content of 16.01 % was reported from KLM-1.
    Key Words: Characterization, Climate, Juicy, Mango, Resilience, Traditional.

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Title: Comparative Study on the Performance of Srinidhi, Rainbow Rooster and Local Chicken Reared under Field Condition of Lunglei District, Mizoram

By: C Lalremruata, Lalmuanzovi and Joy Lalmuanpuia

  • Abstract

    During the period of 2019-2020, comparative performances of Srinidhi (T1 ), Rainbow Rooster (T2 ) and local chicken (T3 ) was studied to see which variety is best suitable for further popularization under backyard system in Mizoram. Local chickens reared under the same system were considered as the control group (T3). Day old chicks of Srinidhi and Rainbow rooster hatched from the demonstration farm of KVK Lunglei were distributed to farmers and the performance parameters such as mortality percentage (up to 6 weeks old), age at first laying (months), body weight at 20 weeks old (kg), annual egg production (numbers) and economic were recorded. From the study, it was observed that the average mortality (up to 6 weeks) in Srinidhi (T1 ), Rainbow rooster(T2 ) and Desi (T3 ) was 13, 12 and 5 per cent, respectively and average age at first egg laid was 89.78±2.07 d (T1 ), 177.25±1.04 d (T2 ) and 210±2.03 d (T3).  Average body weight at 20 weeks in case of male and female birds was 1.61+0.12 kg and1.2+0.1 kg (T1 ), 2.4+0.15 kg and 1.5 + 0.11 kg (T2 ) and 0.825±1.03 kg and 0.625±1.03 kg (T3 ). Average annual egg production per hen was 145.13±1.21
    (T1), 163.03±0.06 (T2) and 50±0.86 (T3). In case of economic returns, it was found that Rainbow rooster was the most economic. One unit could generate an income of about approximately Rs 11,600/- to Rs. 21,750 /-. Overall, it may be concluded that Dual purpose breed were more productive than local chicken.

    Key Words: Chicken, Local, Performance, Poultry, Rainbow Rooster, Srinidhi.

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Title: Constraints Experienced by Farmers in Adoption of Recommended Groundnut Crop Production Technology

By: Swati N Jalu , Minaxi K Bariya and N B Jadav

  • Abstract

    India is a world leader in groundnut farming. A multistage, purposive and random sampling technique was used for the study and conducted in Saurashtra region of Gujarat state. Four districts were selected purposively where front-line demonstrations were conducted and from each district 2 talukas whereas 2 villages from each talukas were selected purposively by KVK. Ten farmers from each village were selected randomly, thus making a total of 160 respondents for this study. An ex-post facto research design was used and the data were collected by interview method and enquired about the constraints faced by them in adopting the recommended groundnut crop production technology. It was revealed that major constraints of the respondents faced were high price of improved seeds (92.50 %) followed by low production due to pest and disease infestation (88.75 %) , the non-availability of appropriate market price on farm produce (86.25%), shortage and high wages of labour (85.00 %) and lack of knowledge about critical stages (83.12 %) as reported by the respondents.
    Key Words: Adoption, Constraints, Groundnut, Production, Technology.

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Title: Decision Making Pattern of Farm Women in Relation to Animal Husbandry Practices

By: Chandravadia Kiran , Bariya Minaxi and Kumbhani Sandip

  • Abstract

    Agriculture can be an important engine of growth and poverty reduction. Women’s contribution to the  animal husbandry and farming sector in respect to decision making pattern has largely been ignored. The present study was attempted to ascertain the decision-making pattern of farm women in animal husbandrypractices. The study was carried out in Junagadh district of Gujarat State. It was envisaged that majority of the farm women had taken self decision in making of ghee (91.66 %), rearing of calves (90.84 %), store milk in summer season (84.58 %), feeding schedule of young calves (82.92 %), making butter milk (78.75 %) and manage dung for fuel and manure (77.08 %). Farm women had taken jointly decision with husband inselection of adult (95.42 %), selection of breed (92.92 %), selection of fodder crops (67.08 %t) and selection  of varieties of fodder crops (61.67 %t). While farm women had taken jointly decision with her family in drying of fodder crops (49.58 %), making milk product (49.16 %) and storage of fodder crops (47.08 %). Key words: Decision making, Pattern, Farm women, Animal Husbandry practices, Farm women.

     

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Title: Determination of Crop Water Stress Index for Kharif Pearl Millet in Semi-Arid Environment

By: Puja B Ratiya, Manoj M Lunagaria and Koyel Sur

  • Abstract

    Achieving high grain yield depends on the ability to avoid water stress by continuous monitoring the crop during the growing season. This study investigates the use of infrared thermometry for monitoring water  stress. A field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2018 on pearl millet crop under rainfed condition. The experiment involved nine treatments composed of three dates of sowing (at onset of monsoon, after 10 d of onset of monsoon and after 20 d of onset of monsoon) and three cultivars (GHB 538, GHB 558 and GHB 744). Canopy temperature (Tc ) was measured using infrared radiometer-IS 131 (Apogee instrument, USA) on daily basis in the afternoon hours (1400 h to 1430 h) along with psychrometric observations. Soil temperature, soil moisture, dry biomass, plant water content and plant height were also measured regularly. Pearl millet is drought tolerance crop but water stress condition during critical growth stage led to yield reduction. In CWSI, Upper base line (dTu ) was dTu = 2.9°C which was relatively independent of vapour pressure deficit (VPD) and lower baseline was dTl = -3.0468 (VPD) + 2.6409. Throughout season CWSI value remain between -1.47 to 1.26. A strong and negative correlation was observed between CWSI and soil moisture up to 30 cm depth in all treatments. The results revealed that pearl millet crop in similar climate and soil condition, should be irrigated at CWSI values 0.52 to avoid water stress. The relationship between percent available soil moisture (PASM) and CWSI was linear and useful to farmers for irrigation scheduling.
    Key Words: Infrared Thermometry, Pearl Millet, Rainfed, Soil depth, Water, Stress.

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Title: Economic Status of Farming in Border Districts of Punjab

By: Jaspreet Singh1, H S Kingra , Rohit Saini , Manjeet Kaur and H K Mavi

  • Abstract

    The study was intended to find socio-economic characteristics of peasantry in border areas of Punjab which consist of six districts namely, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Pathankot, Tarn Taran, Fazilka and Ferozepur. By using four stage random sampling technique, a sample of 80 farmers covering four blocks and eight villages of Pathankot and Tarn Taran districts of Punjab was taken for the study. The average family size of the farm household was 5.10 members with the marginal households having smallest families and the large farm-size having the largest families across different farm-size categories. Most of the medium and large farmers were either graduate or post graduate while higher education was seldom pursed by the households in marginal and small farm-size category in the study area. The average annual income earned by the farm households was Rs 9.23 lakh in which on farm sources have around 74 per cent share and off-farm income sources around 26 per cent. The income of the households was Rs 2.15 lakh, Rs 4.91 lakh, Rs 9.32 lakh, Rs 14.98 lakh and Rs 23.76 lakh for marginal, small, semi-medium, medium and large farm-size category households, respectively. However, off-farm activities constituted major income sources in case of the marginal farmers. For irrigation, tube-wells were the most preferred source of irrigation in all farm categories and many farmers in Pathankot
    district rely on canal water for irrigation. The most common assets which were owned by almost all the farmers include tractor and trolley. Average livestock possession in this area was around 4 animals per household.
    Key Words: Farm income, Non-farm income, Farm earners, Family size, Land structure and Farm assets.

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Title: Effect of Broad Bed Furrow System on Growth, Yield and Economics of Rainfed Soybean

By: S S Dhakad, G R Ambawatia and K C Mahajan

  • Abstract

    Field experiments were conducted in Shajapur district of Madhya Pradesh to assess the effect of broad  bed furrow (BBF) seed drill on growth, yield and economics of soybean crop. The observations like plant population, plant height, number of branches per plant, root length, root width, number of root nodules per plant, number of pods per plant, pod length, number of seed per pod, seed yield weight per plant and seed index were recorded from 5 randomly selected plants from each treatment from each replication. Besides these, seed yield, straw yield, harvest index and economics of treatments were also calculated. The broad bed furrow sowing was significantly better in term of growth, seed
    index, yield and harvest index when compare with normal flat bed sowing of soybean crop. Economic analysis of pooled data revealed that the significant higher net profit (Rs. 31,177/ha) was recorded with  broad bed furrow (BBF) sowing compared to normal flat sowing (Rs. 24,317/ha) for soybean crop.
    Key Words: Broad bed furrow (BBF), Seeddrill, Soybean

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Title: Effect of Waste Decomposer- Pure Microbial Strains Obtained from Desi Cow Dung on the Growth and Performance of Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

By: K Karthik, M Thirumalaivasan, G Alagukannan

  • Abstract

    The effects of waste decomposer (pure microbial strain obtained from desi cow dung) and raw cow dung on the growth and production performance of genetically improved farmed Tilapia (GIFT) were evaluated in nine earthen ponds at Cholamadevi, Ariyalur for a period of 120 d. Three treatments namely T1 (raw cow dung), T2 (pure microbial strains) and T3 control (with no fertilization) with three replicates were tested. GIFT was used as experimental species and stocking density was 8 fishes/m2 . The range of water quality parameters were found to be within the production range and had no significant (P>0.05) difference among the treatments. However, significant difference (P<0.05) was observed in case of weight gain and total production among the treatment. The highest mean weight (g) gain was obtained in T2 (235.5±0.42) followed by T1 (220.8±4.37) similarly the highest production (kg/ha/120days) was obtained in T2 (2796.57 kg) followed by T1 (2649.6 kg). The present study showed that the growth and production performance of GIFT were higher in T2 compared to other treatments. Though, no significant different was observed
    among T1 and T2 in growth and production performance, the use of pure microbial strain in form of waste decomposer, showed better economic impact in form of high BC ratio and less FCR compared to that of T1. Hence, it could be a better alternative for farmers who lack livestock for production of cow dung. Since direct microbial strain were used for fertilization, the time required for growth of phytoplankton was also reduced and growth of the good microbial organism is also enhanced causing better immunity and feed conversion in fishes reared in this pond. Further study should be needed to evaluate the use of pure microbial strains in polyculture system of carp fish which is also predominately practiced in this district

    Key Words: Aquaculture, Decomposer, Microbial strain, Cow dung, Waste.

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Title: Effect of Continuous Application of Nutrient Management Options on Crop Yields in Rice- Rice Cropping System

By: Thulasi V, Moossa P P and Sumayya S

  • Abstract

    The Permanent manurial trial (PMT) in rice was established at RARS Pattambi in 1972 and is being  conducted continuously in the same field with eight treatments of varying nutrient management options. The objective of the experiment was to study the effect of long term application of fertilizers and manures on growth and yield of the plant and monitoring of soil quality. The PMT experiment with 44 years of cropping history revealed the superiority of integrated nutrient management with 50 Per cent NPK along with 50% FYM over the sole use of fertilizers. The use of fertilizers alone or ammonium sulphate alone did not produce sustainable yields in the long run indicating the need for balanced application of nutrients and integration of organic and inorganic sources of plant nutrients for sustainable yields.
    Key Words: Fertilizer, Integrated, Laterite soil, Long term, Management, Manure, Nutrient.

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Title: Effect of High Yielding Variety and Improved Practices on Yield of Sesamum in Onattukara Tracts of Alappuzha District

By: M S Rajeev and P Muralidharan

  • Abstract

    Field demonstrations were conducted during 2018-19 and 2019-20 in Onattukara region of Alappuzha district to establish the advantage of cultivating a high yielding variety with recommended crop management practices on enhancing the net income from sesamum cultivation. High Yielding Variety Thilarani was cultivated at twenty farmer partners’ field in a total area of 12 hectares in Vallikunnam and Chettikulangara panchayaths during the summer season (January to April) during both years. Scientific crop management along with critical irrigations were given at 2-4 leaf stage, branching, flowering and pod formation stages.Observations were recorded on plant height, number of branches, number of capsules per plant, 1000  seeds weight and yield. While plant height (142.7 cm), number of branches (6.6), number of capsules per plant (43.4) were significantly higher in the HYV compared to the farmers’ variety, capsule length
    (2.4), number of seeds per capsule (53), and 1000 seed weight (3.1 g) were on par. Seed yield of high yielding variety (424 kg/ha) was significantly higher compared to the traditional variety (334 kg/ha). Higher average net returns (Rs.47702/ha) as well as benefit cost ratio (1.8) were achieved by the cultivation of HYV with scientific management practices compared to the farmers’ practice (Rs.26104/ha and 1.4)
    Key Words: Demonstration, Onattukara, Sesamum, Thilarani, Yield.

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Title: Effect of Nitrogen and Cutting on Growth and Seed Yield of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.)

By: Navdeep Singh and Arshpreet Kaur

  • Abstract

    A field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2020-21 to study the effect of nitrogen  and cutting on growth and seed yield of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). The experiment comprised of eight treatment combinations with two levels of cutting at 45 d and 60 d and three levels of nitrogen i.e., 15 kg, 30 kg, 45 kg/ ha and control was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The results revealed that the combination of 30 kg nitrogen/ha + cutting at 45 d was significantly superior for plant height, number of branches per plant, plant spread, number of umbels per plant, number of seeds per umbellate, seed weight per plant and highest seed yield.
    Key Words: Coriander, cutting, nitrogen, seed, yield

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Title: Effect of Supplementation of Bypass Fat During Pre and Post Parturient Period on Lactation in Crossbred Cows

By: A A Rumne, B N Ramteke and G M Gadegaonkar*

  • Abstract

    The present study was undertaken to evaluate the influence of supplementation of bypass fat during pre and post parturient period on lactation performance in crossbred cows. Twelve crossbreed lactating HF cows were divided into two equal groups viz., Group T0 (Control) and T1 (treatment) . Group T0 received roughages and concentrate mixture prepared as per the practice of farm and group T1 received same ration as per group T0 and supplemented with bypass fat @ 30g/100 kg BW. The average DMI (kg) of cows from both the group was comparable during pre-partum and post-partum period. The average daily milk production, 4% FCM yield, TDN and DCP intake, milk fat and total solid percentage and specific gravity were significantly (P<0.01) higher for cows from treatment group than control. The feed efficiency in terms of DM, TDN and DCP required per kg FCM produced was significantly (P<0.01) better for cows from treatment group than control. The digestibility coefficient for all the nutrients and content of TDN and DCP were higher for group T1.. During pre-partum period, average BCS for control and treatment group was comparable, while during postpartum phase it was significantly (P<0.05) higher for treatment group (3.27) than for control (3.10).
    Key Words: Bypass fat Composition, Crossbred cows, Milk, Postpartum, Prepartum, Yield

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Title: Effect of Training on Knowledge Gain of Livestock Inspectors

By: Bimal P Bashir, Bipin K C and Anjali K Babu

  • Abstract

    This investigation was done during 2017-18 to study the effect of training on the knowledge gain of livestock  inspectors who attended the training programme conducted at College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala. The data were collected using well structure interview schedule. All the fifty six participants were interviewed and pre and post training knowledge score were collected using a teacher made scale for the study. The study revealed that trainees had a positive impact on the knowledge gain by the participants. Women participation was found to be less in the training. The respondents had medium level of favourable opinion about the training. Major suggestion given by participants included improving the lodging and boarding facilities, providing more handouts, conducting training especially during the start of financial year.
    Key Words:- Livestock, Knowledge, Gain, Kerala, Opinion, Suggestions, Training.

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Title: Efficacy of Chemical Herbicides on Weed Management in Onion (Allium cepa)

By: Rakesh Kumar , P K Gupta and and Samarpal Singh

  • Abstract

    Weed management is one of the significant challenges of vegetable tuber crops since weeds pose a remarkable threat to crop productivity in South Asian countries, including India. An on-farm trial on efficacy of oxyflurofen and quizalofopethyl herbicides for weeds management in onion was under taken during rabi 2015-16, 2016- 17and 2017-18 at farmers’ field of south-west district of Delhi. Among the respective herbicidal treatment combinations oxyfluorfen 35 g/ha + quizalofop ethyl 37.5g/ha foliar spray at 35 days after transplanting (DAT) recorded significantly lower weed density (39.66/m2 ), dry matter (42.22 g/m2 ) and higher weed control efficiency (77.61%) followed by farmers’ practice (pendimethalin 3.0 L/ha + one hand weeding). The application of oxyfluorfen 35 g/ha + quizalofop ethyl 37.5g/ha foliar spray at 35 DAT prove to be most productive and profitable weed control, which recorded significantly highest bulb yield (277.44q/ha), net return (Rs.1,71, 952 /ha) and B: C ratio (3.77) followed by farmers’ practice bulb yield (252.22q/ha), net return (Rs.1,29,276/ha) and B: C ratio (3.01). The increased returns as a result of increased quality and bulb yield of onion with respective herbicides applications will result in more profitability of onion cultivation farmers.
    Key Words: Herbicide, onion, weed management, weed density.

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Title: Efficacy of Virus based Biopesticide Formulation against Gram Pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera in chickpea

By: Gurmeet Singh and Rajinder Singh Bal

  • Abstract

    The field experiments were carried out during the rabi 2020-21 season at farmer’s field in Amritsar and  Gurdaspur districts. Efficacy of biopesticides namely Helicop 2% AS (HaNPV formulation) at 250, 375 and 500 ml/haalong with standard checks DOR Bt-1 at 2000 g/haand Coragen 18.5 SC (chlorantraniliprole) @ 125 ml/ha were evaluated against gram pod borer, H. armigera in gram. The experiment was laid out in Randomised Block Design (RBD) with 6 treatments including untreated control each replicated three times. Helicop 2% AS showed increased efficacy in suppressing the larval population of H. armigera with increase in the concentration of the insecticide and days after application. Highest suppression (77.78%) of larval population was observed @ 500 ml/ha after 10 days of first spray of Helicop 2% AS. Similar trend for reduction in larval population was observed after 7 days of second spray also. It
    was noticed that 58.12, 80.66 and 90.32 per cent reduction in larval population occurred 7 days after second spray when Helicop 2% AS used @ 250, 375 and 500 ml/ha, respectively. Reduction in larval population was 87.04 per cent when DOR Bt 1 was used @ 2000 g/ha. No significant differences in reducing the larval population were observed when Helicop 2% AS @ 500 ml/ha, DOR Bt 1@ 2000 g/ha and Coragen 18.5 SC @ 125 ml/ha used after 7 days of second spray, although all the treatments differed significantly as compared to control.Hence, Helicop 2% AS may be used as an alternative control measures @ 500 ml/ha for the management of H. armigera in gram. Its use must be recommended
    early in the season when the larvae are young and two sprays may be recommended for better results.
    Key Words: Biopesticides, Chickpea,Coragen 18.5 SC, Gram pod borer, Helicop 2% AS

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Title: Enhancing Productivity and Profitability of Sesame in Nellore District of Andhra Pradesh

By: D Nagarjuna1 , M Mallikarjun, M Pradeep Kumar2 , P N Harathi, G L Siva Jyothi and V Sumathi

  • Abstract

    Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the most important oilseed crops grown next to groundnut in Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh. The productivity of sesame in the district is low and attempts were made to increase the area and improve the productivity by adopting high yielding variety along with integrated crop management (ICM) practices. The ICM practices including sowing of improved variety (YLM 66), seed treatment with mancozeb @ 30g/kg seed + neem oil application at 25-30 DAS+ arrangement of sticky traps to monitor sucking pest vectors + spraying of monocrotophos @ 1.6 ml/L of water at flowering to pod formation stage for insect management + spraying of carbendazim for control of leaf spot was demonstrated in farmer’s field. The results revealed that increase in seed yield over farmers’ practice was 40.0 and 30.10 per cent during 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively. In terms of economics, it was observed that demo practices recorded higher net returns/ha compared to farmer’s practice during the years 2019-20 and 2020-21. The benefit cost ratio during 2019-20 and 2020-21 was 3.23 and 3.31, respectively. The percent technology index
    varied between 24.6 to 42.0 per cent indicating a need to motivate the farmers to adopt economical viable technologies for increasing production, productivity and profitability of oilseed crops in Nellore district.
    Key Words: Demonstration, Extension gap, Profitability, Technology gap and Technology index. Yield.

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Title: Ergonomic Evaluation of Brush Cutters for Women Users

By: Bini Sam

  • Abstract

    There are different models of brush cutters available in the market. The safety and efficiency aspects of  brush cutters are not being studied for women operators and needs to be evaluated. Therefore, a study was undertaken to ergonomically evaluate the commercially available two stroke and four stroke models of brush cutters with different cutting mechanism. Five female subjects were selected, those having anthropometric dimensions conforming to statistical requirements based on the anthropometric survey. There was significant difference in heart rate and energy expenditure rate in the operation of different models of brush cutters. Heart rate and energy expenditure were lowest for four stroke model brush cutter. A significant increase in heart rate was noticed while operating different cutter heads in the order of nylon wire, two blade cutter head and three blade cutter head for both models. The heart rate was maximum with a value of 165 beats min-1 while operating two stroke model with three blade cutter attachment. The overall discomfort rating varied from 5.8 to 8.5 on 0 – 10 discomfort scale and was in the range of moderate discomfort to uncomfortable. The body part discomfort score value was maximum in the operation of two stroke model with three blade attachment, where as it was minimum in the operation of four stroke model with nylon head. The operation
    of four stroke and two stroke models with nylon wire were safer for women operators. The operation of two stroke model brush cutter was difficult as compared to four stroke model for women operators.
    Key Words: Brush Cutters, Discomfort, Energy Expenditure, Heart Rate, Women.

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Title: Estimation of Fodder Quality and Digestibility Parameters of Pistia stratiotes Plant Meal

By: Arumbaka Sudheer Babu , Chilumula Rama Krishna and N Nalini Kumari

  • Abstract

    The estimation of fodder quality and digestibility parameters using various factorial methods was done  for the Pistia stratiotes commonly called as water cabbage, water lettuce, Nile cabbage, or shellflower to assess its use as animal feed. Pistia stratiotes samples were pooled from natural lake of Korutla Mandal, Jagityala District of Telangana State during February 2021. Pistia stratiotes contains 19.86 per cent crude protein and 16.39 per cent crude fibre. The crude fibre level was found to be higher than conventional ingredients used for non-ruminant livestock but will probably suit to ruminant and pseudo-ruminants. Other parameters were total ash (23.61%), moisture content (92.59%) and ether extract (2.01%). The mineral contents were 2.55% calcium, 0.99% phosphorous. The type of fibre was (54.37% neutral detergent fibre and 34.27% acid detergent fibre) and estimated dry matter intake was (2.21% on dry matter basis)
    and estimated digestibility parameters were (106.41% relative feed value and 114.56% relative feed quality). The other results of analysis were acid detergent lignin (ADL) 23.75%, hemi cellulose (H.C) 20.10 percent acid insoluble ash (AIA) 5.30 percent and silica 3.96 percent. The analysis performed on the Pistia stratiotes depicts an encouraging potential for its application as animal feed during scarcity or disaster for the livestock especially during floods in various forms which has to be further tested in vivo.
    Key Words: Digestibility, Nutritive composition, Pistia stratiotes, Proximate composition, Quality parameters.

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Title: Evaluation of Biocontrol Agents and Chemical Fungicides Against Sclerotium rolfsii causing Stem Rot and Foliar Blight of Cowpea

By: Nayana Sunil and Susha S Thara

  • Abstract

    Sclerotium rolfsii is a serious pathogen which causes stem rot and foliar blight diseases in cowpea. Infected cowpea plant samples were collected from different locations of Kasargod district in Kerala. Six isolates of  pathogen obtained could produce infection in cowpea during pathogenicity test and identified as Sclerotium rolfsii by morphological, cultural and molecular characterization. Among the biocontrol agents tested, highest inhibition of 84.44% was recorded with Trichoderma harzianum followed by Trichoderma viride (71.11). Pseudomonas fluorescens showed zero per cent mycelial inhibition whereas Bacillus subtilis inhibited the growth of pathogen by 38.89 per cent. Among the fungicides, mancozeb (75 WP) and propiconazole (25EC) were recorded with 100 per cent inhibition of pathogen at all the three concentrations (0.1%, 0.2% and 0.3%) tested followed by thiram (75WS) with 99.63 per cent inhibition at 0.3% concentration. Chlorothalonil (75 WP) and azoxistrobin 23SC were also found effective at all the tested concentrations (0.1%, 0.2% & 0.3%). Copper oxychloride (50WP) and carbendazim (50WP) were less effective against
    the pathogen with inhibition of 5.18 and 12.8 per cent at 0.1% and 0.05% concentrations, respectively.

    Keywords: Sclerotium rolfsii, chemical fungicides, biocontrol agents, Trichoderma harzianum, Pseudomonas fluorescens, stem rot, foliar blight.

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Title: Evaluation of Frontline Demonstration of Zero Tillage Technology in Wheat Under Semi-Irrigated Conditions

By: Ajay Chourasiya, Uttam Kumar Tripathi and Ashok Kumar Sharma

  • Abstract

    Krishi Vigyan Kendra Satna conducted frontline demonstrations on sowing of wheat by zero tillage method at farmers’ field during years 2019-20 and 2020-21. The data on productivity, economics and water saving in demonstrated plots were calculated and compared with the corresponding farmer’s practice. It was observed that yield of demonstrated plots was 15.73 per cent higher than farmer’s practices. The extension gap, technology gap and technology index were 5.99 q/ha, 2.93 q/ha and6.23 per cent, respectively. Due to reduced cost of cultivation and higher crop yield, the gross and net return was also higher in zero tillage as compared to the farmer’s practice. The BCR was 2.78 in
    zero tillage, which was higher than in farmer’s practice (2.08). The depth of irrigation was also less, i.e., 22.20 ha-cm and 30.50 ha-cm in zero tillage and farmer’s practice, respectively. Higher yield and returns due to reduced cost of cultivation and water saving in the FLDs over the farmer’s practice created greater awareness and motivated the other farmers to adopt this latest wheat sowing technology.
    Key Words: Irrigation, Returns, Wheat, Yield, Zero tillage.

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Title: Evaluation of Maize Based Legume Intercropping Systems

By: N. Khumdemo Ezung, D J Rajkhowa and Ben Yanthan

  • Abstract

    A field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of the year 2021 at the experimental farm of Krishi  Vigyan Kendra, Kiphire, Nagaland to assess the response on growth and yield of maize crop as affected by different intercropping systems. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with seven treatments and three replications. The treatments included sole maize (T1), maize + greengram (T2), maize + french bean (T3), maize + groundnut(T4), maize + cowpea (T5), maize + rice bean (T6) and maize + blackgram (T7). It was found that the growth and yield of the sole crop out-performed the rest of the intercropping system. However, in inter-cropping system, maize + cowpea intercropping produced the highest growth, yield, net income and B:C ratio as compared with the rest of the intercropping system. However, the maize equivalent yield was found to be highest in maize+groundnut system followed by maize+cowpea. It can be said that intercropping of maize with cowpea followed by maize+ groundnut may be considered for adoption by farmers’ of Kiphire district. The intercropping of maize + greengram and maize+blackgram which resulted in the B:C ratio of 3.37 may also be considered for taking up depending on market availability and demand.
    Key Words: Growth, Intercropping, Legumes, Maize, Yield.

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Title: Evaluation of Vitamin E Supplementation to Control Mastitis in Crossbred Cows during Summer Season

By: Gurlal Singh Gill, Ankush Proch , Gurjot Kaur and Kulvinder Singh

  • Abstract

    Mastitis is a common disease of dairy animals throughout the world. Prevalence of intramammary  infections (IMI) increased due to high ambient temperatures with high relative humidity. The objective of the experiment was to evaluate the effect of vitamin E supplementation along with Iodine teat dip practices on prevalence of mastitis during the summer season. In this study, a total of 72 lactating  cross bred cows of eight dairy farms of Faridkot district were randomly divided into three experimental groups (T1, T2, T3). Group T3 received 1000 IU/day of vitamin E orally along with teat dipping practice using Iodine (0.5%) after milking. In group T2, each cow received only teat dipping practice using
    Iodine (0.5%) after milking. T1 group was a control group. Relative risk and odds ratio was calculated using Epi info CDC 0.7. Oral administration of vitamin E with teat dipping practices was found more  effective in reducing new IMI than alone teat dipping practice. Analysis revealed that group T3, T2, and T1 had 83.33, 79.16 and 66.66 per cent of no new IMI respectively, in their early lactation period. IMI was reduced by 37.57 per cent and 50 per cent in T2 and T3 groups, respectively as compared to controlgroup. Risk of IMI was reduced by 1.6 and 2.0 times by using iodine teat dip solution and combination  of iodine dip solution with Vitamin E supplementation, respectively. The findings of current investigation concluded that iodine teat dip therapy along with vitamin E supplementation in early lactating cross bred cows during heat stress period has more beneficial effect in preventing IMI in cross bred cows.
    Key Words: Crossbred, Cow, Teat, Solution, Supplementation, Vitamin E.

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Title: Factors influencing the Risk Attitude of Vegetable Farmers in Kerala

By: Navitha Raj and Dr Allan Thomas

  • Abstract

    Vegetables play a major role by providing nutritional, economic security and producing higher returns per unit area. But vegetable farmers have to face diverse kinds of climate, biological, price and financial risks. An important factor in understanding the behavioural and managerial decisions of farmers is to understand their attitude towards risk. This study investigated the risk attitude of vegetable farmers in special agricultural zones, socio-economic characteristics of farmers and identified the factors which influences the risk attitude. A survey was conducted by involving 270 respondents from 6 agro ecological units. Purposive as well as simple random sampling techniques were adopted for the study.
    The data were collected with the help of structured interview schedule and processed into frequency, percentage, correlation analysis to draw the conclusion. Results showed that majority of the farmers were in medium risk attitude category and the factors such as area under vegetable cultivation, education, annual income, irrigation potential, extension participation, social participation and innovative proneness were positively and significantly related with the risk attitude of vegetable farmers.

    Key Words: Analysis, Attitude, Correlation, Farmers, Risk, Vegetable.

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Title: Farming Situations in Issapur Village of Dwarka District in West Delhi During COVID-19 Pandemic

By: Aryan Gautam , S. Srivara Buddhi Bhuvaneswari and Yedida Sudhamini

  • Abstract

    Situation of Indian agriculture has changed a lot due to pandemic which had a huge impact not only on  agriculture but various other allied activities related to it. In this context, this paper aims to study the impact of COVID 19 on various aspects of farming system. The village selected for the study was Issapur which is located in the outskirt of Delhi NCR. The sampling method adopted in this village was snowball sampling or chain referral sampling. Exactly 30 farmers were interviewed. The data were arranged in a systematic manner, analyzed and expressed on percentage basis. In this study, most of the farmers belonged to the age group 35-55 yr, involved in farming alongside being wage earners, educated up to 12th, associated with joint family system, had no trading experience, belonged to small farmer category. Majority of farmers were not affected by COVID 19 and not ready to take vaccination. The study revealed that at the time of lockdown most of the crops were at harvesting and post harvesting stages. Most of the farmers did not face any issues regarding input availability for their next crop and didn’t have any problem regarding labour availability for
    their farming operations. They suggested strategies like frequent monitoring on input shops and regularization of prices and provision of facilities of storage to prevent them to go for distress sale due to pandemic.
    Key Words: Farming situations, Agricultural sector, Pandemic, Covid-19, lockdown

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Title: FEA Technique for Design and Simulation of Sisal Decorticator Raspador

By: Nagesh Kumar T, Prateek Shrivastava, Manisha Jagadale, Shambhu V B and Nayak L K

  • Abstract

    Finite element analysis (FEA) is a computational technique used to provide the numeric solution of  complex structures by dividing them into small elements using various partial differential equations. In agriculture, the numerical simulation based on the FEA technique allows the engineers to study the behavior of various input products to optimize the design of any machine without developing a prototype.  The present study focused to design and simulates the sisal decorticator raspador by employing the FEA technique. For this purpose, a 3D-CAD model of sisal decorticator raspador was developed using the Creo Parametric design software and a static structural test using the FEA technique was performed in the ANSYS version 15.0 workbench software. To compute the force required to scrap the pulpy material of the leaves in the Universal Testing Machine, a special fixture has been developed. The simulated results
    predicted that maximum deformation was observed as 8.09e-7 m while maximum shear stress and VonMises equivalent stress were found to be 1.30e5 Pa and 2.48e5 Pa, respectively at 250 N scraping forces. It was also observed that stress values are within the yield strength of the material. Hence, FEA technique was found to be a scientific and very effective approach for design and simulating the sisal decorticator raspador.
    Key Words: ANSYS, Total deformation, Von Mises equivalent stress and FEA.

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Title: Gaps in Time Management Skills of the Students of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner

By: Nitesh Kumar Tanwar , K C Sharma and Naresh Kumar Kumawat

  • Abstract

    Soft skills refer to personality traits, social graces, facility with language, personal habits, friendliness, and optimism that mark people to varying degrees. The study was conducted to find out gaps in soft skills among the students. This paper assessed the time management skill among the final year college students in four constituent colleges of Sri Karan Narendra Agriculture University, Jobner. A total of 88 (59 boys and 29 girls) final year students from SKNAU, Jobner were selected by using 50 per cent sampling randomly. The data were collected through personal interview schedule. The study revealed that majority of the students have medium gap in time management skill (65.91 %), followed by low gap (18.18 %) and high gap (15.91 %). Native place, father’s education, family occupation, annual income and medium of instruction found non-significant, whereas mother’s education, academic performance, involvement in extracurricular activities, library exposure, computer exposure and internet exposure found significant with gaps in time management skills.
    Key Words: College, Soft skills, Students, Time management, Skill gap,

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Title: Growth, Instability Index and Structural Change of Different Crops in Bagalkot and Vijayapura District

By: Nethravathi Ashok Patil Yeledhalli R A and Ganapathy M S

  • Abstract

    The present study was aimed to analyse the growth and instability in area, production and productivity  of different crops in Bagalkot and Vijayapura districts and structural changes of agriculture and horticulture crops. The secondary data were collected and analysed using compound growth, instability analysis and Marcov chain. The result of showed that highest CAGR in case of area and production of Bengal gram in Bagalkot was 12.97 per cent and 12.09 per cent, respectively where as in Vijayapura highest growth rate in production was 18.78 per cent for Maize may be due to more suitable agroclimatic conditions. In case of Bagalkot district, onion could retain maximum area i.e, 74
    per cent but in Vijayapura district about 82.86 per cent of area was retained by sunflower. Soyabean had lost all its area to other crops may be due to non-availability of competitive price in the market.
    Key Words: Area, Growth Rate, Instability index, Production, Productivity.

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Title: Host Range and Survival Studies of Bacterial Leaf Spot of Green gram Pathogen Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. vignaeradiatae

By: Jitendra Kumar, Renu Gupta and Anila Doshi

  • Abstract

    Bacterial leaf spot pathogen Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. vignaeradiatae produces symptoms on leaves, stems, pods and seeds. Small water-soaked spots are the initial symptoms observed on leaves and appear within 4 to 10d of infection. Bacterium was tested on 20 different plant species by inoculating one month old leaves using carborundum abrasion technique and the disease development was recorded. Out of the twenty plant species, the pathogen could produce visible symptoms on Black gram (Vigna mungo), cow pea (Vigna sinensis) and cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba). This study indicated that sensitive plant species may be collateral hosts of this pathogen and it has narrow host range. In host age studies, the PDI decrease withincrease in age of green gram plants after attaining the maximum severity at 30d stage. In plant debris, the survival period of pathogen was maximum (480d) in refrigerator and minimum (40d) in outdoor conditions. The bacterium survived longer (570d) in seeds, when soaked in bacterial suspension and stored in refrigerator.
    Key Words: Bacterial blight, Green gram, Host range, Leaf spot, Suspension, Survival.

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Title: Impact of Adoption of Climatic Resilient Practices in Goat Farming in Kuttanad Region of Kerala

By: S Ravi, P Muralidharan and J Arathy

  • Abstract

    One hundred and eighty goat farmers, majority being women, in Muttar and Thalavady villages of Kuttanad  region of Kerala were trained on scientific and climate resilient practices in goat rearing during the year 2013-15 under the National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) project. Out of these, 36 farmers were provided the materials and technical support for fabrication of climate resilient goat sheds with raised platform to overcome the seasonal water-logging prevalent in the below mean sea level region. A study was conducted during 2018-19 to find out the impact of adoption of these practices. The respondents’ profile indicated that 47.2 per cent farmers were above 50 yr of age and 86.1 per cent were women whereas91.7 per cent of the units were managed with family labour. It was found that farmers started rearing  improved breeds of goat (75 %) and changed to balanced feeding (86.1%) from conventional feeding practices. Majority of the farmers bred their animals by Artificial Insemination methods (66.7%) and could identify the heat symptoms (80.6 %), started selling the animals directly (66.7%), started selling the milk
    (63.9%) and manure (44.4%). Mortality was reduced from 40% to 0% in the adopted units compared to the conventional practice. Sixty-eight such units were replicated by farmers themselves through horizontal spread of the technologies and practices in the district, reflecting on the impact of the interventions.
    Key Words: Climate, Goat, Labour, Practices, Rearing, Resilient, Shelter, Skill, Woman

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Title: Income and Expenditure Pattern of Agricultural Labour Households in South-Western Region of Punjab

By: Shaminder Kaur, Manjeet Kaur , Rohit Saini and H S Kingra

  • Abstract

    The present study analyzed the income and expenditure pattern of agricultural labourers in South-Western  Punjab. A sample of 60 households were selected from the region and primary data were collected by personal interview. The average agricultural labour household earned Rs.1,01,409/- and their expenditure was estimated at Rs. 1,20,046/- annum. Their annual expenditure was higher than income. The farmers preferred employing agricultural labourers as casual workers instead of permanent workers depicting casualization of labour engagement in agriculture. The economic surplus came-out to be negative. MGNERGA, health schemes for these households are required to provide immediate relief under such existing situation.

    Key Words: Agriculture, Labourer, Economics Surplus, Employment, Income, Indebtedness

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Title: Improved Barley Production Technology Adoption by the farmers of Jaipur

By: Sangita Yadav , B S Badhala and K C Sharma

  • Abstract

    Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is an ancient cereal grain, which upon domestication has evolved  from largely a food grain to a feed and malting grain. The present study was conducted in Jaipur by selecting a total sample of 102 barley growers. The personal profile and knowledge level of farmers was measured through an interview schedule prepared in consultation with the experts. The study concluded that majority of beneficiary (66.67%) and non-beneficiary (74.51%) had medium adoption about improved barley production technology. Both type of respondents (beneficiary and nonbeneficiary) possessed maximum adoption regarding use of high yielding varieties of barley crop.
    Key Words: Adoption index, Barley, Beneficiary, Farmers, Non-beneficiary.

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Title: Knowledge of Farmers Regarding Isabgol (Plantago ovata) Production in Jodhpur Region of Rajasthan

By: Mahendra Sou , B S Badhala , K C Sharma ,Kulkarni Srinivas and Pramod

  • Abstract

    Isabgol (Plantago ovata) is one of the important medicinal and commercial crops of Rajasthan. The present  study was conducted in Barmer and Jodhpur districts of Rajasthan. From Jodhpur and Barmer district two panchayat samities in relation to Isabgol growers from each district were selected due to highest area and production of the crop. From four selected panchayat samities, eight Isabgol growing villages namelyJagriya, Padiyal, Jaisla, Nokda Bhatiyan, Ajani ki dhani, Jambh Shakti dham udaser, Bhawar, Harpalia were selected randomly. The personal profile and knowledge level of 120 respondents was measured through an interview schedule prepared in consultation with the experts. Knowledge index developed by the investigator was used to measure knowledge level of farmers. The study revealed that majority of farmers were young and middle aged, 22.50 per cent farmers were illiterate, majority (86.67 %) were having medium and large size of land holding,  majority (84.0 %) of farmers were having their annual income in the range of Rs 1,00,792/- to Rs 2,49,208/-. Results also showed that majority (69.17 %) of farmers were
    in the category of medium knowledge level. Almost all the farmers (86.66 MPS) were having knowledge about irrigation management which was ranked first amongst all the package of practices of Isabgol.
    Key Words: Growers, Irrigation, Management, Knowledge index, Land holding, Production.

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Title: Marketing Driven Agriculture based Entrepreneurship for the Livelihood Security of Rural Community

By: M S Gill, Manudeep Kaushal and Manoj Sharma

  • Abstract

    On the basis of research investigation, it was  revealed that there are numerous opportunities to enhance the production efficiency, land use efficiencies and profitability along with the conservation of natural resources and ultimately
    livelihood security among the rural communities.The entrepreneurs discussed in the text amply  demonstrates that the resources are recycled and  only the attention is to create awareness among the rural communities to exploit them by putting them in the food chain for increasing the consumer acceptability and to make them environment friendly. The marketing driven strategy is the need of the hour to fetch maximum profit margin per unit area, per unit time. In addition, it may create employment opportunity for the rural people

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Title: Multipurpose Tree: Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam)

By: Sohan Singh Walia, Karmjeet Kaur and Manoj Sharma*

  • Abstract

    Moringaoleifera is a multi-purpose herbal plant used as human food and an alternative for medicinal purposes worldwide. Its different parts are source of proteins, vitamins and minerals and have different pharmacological and biotechnological potential. Various parts of this plant such as the leaves, roots, seed, bark, fruit, flowers and immature pods act asanti-asthmatic, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antiulcer, antihypertensive, cholesterol lowering, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antibacterial, hepatoprotective and antifungal activities. Moreover, M. oleifera seeds are widely used in water treatment due to their coagulation, flocculation and sedimentation properties by reducing organic matter and microbial load.Moringa leaves contain 21.8 per cent crude protein, 22.8 per cent acid detergent fiber and 30.8 per cent neutral detergent fiber as well as 412.0 g/kg of crude fat, 211.2 g/kg of carbohydrates and 44.3 g/kg of ash which are useful to increase livestock production. In addition, due to its high nutritional value and several medicinal properties, this tree may act as a nutritional and medical alternative for socially neglected population. In this context, a brief overview about multipurposes of Moringa oleifera, emphasizing its chemical constituents, nutritional, pharmacological and antimicrobial properties, applications in the treatment of water effluents, social and environmental aspects have been delineated.

    Key Words: Moringa, Medicinal properties, Nutritional value, Antimicrobial properties, Livestock, Water treatment

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Title: Mulching and Spacing Affects Growth, Yield and Fruit Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria x Ananassa Duch.) under Terai Zone of West Bengal

By: Kaushik Das, Biplab Das, Koushik Paul and Md. Banaz Alam

  • Abstract

    The experiment was conducted at KVK Jalpaiguri, Ramshai, West Bengal during 2018-19, to study the effect of different mulching and spacing on growth, yield and fruit quality of Strawberry cv. Nabila under Terai condition of West Bengal. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three treatments: FP (Farmer’s practice): Paddy straw mulch with spacing 45x45cm, TO (Technology Option) 1: Black polythene mulch with spacing 45×30 cm, TO (Technology Option) 2: Black polythene mulch with spacing 45×45 cm) and eight replications. The results revealed that different mulches and spacing significantly increased the soil moisture percent, number of flowers, fruit retention, physico-chemical qualities of fruits and it improved the plant growth too. Among different mulches and spacing it was found that TO 2: Black polythene mulch with spacing 45×45 cm showed the highest growth, yield and fruit quality of strawberry cv. Nabila with the highest B:C ratio of 1.73. The average yield obtained under TO (Technology Option) 2 was 11.00 t/ha which was 17.27% higher than yield obtained from farmers’ practice (9.10 t/ha).
    Key Words: Mulching, Spacing, Growth, Quality, Yield, Strawberry

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Title: Performance of Cluster beans (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) for Yield and its Contributing Traits

By: Ajay Kumar

  • Abstract

    Cluster bean commonly called as Guar is grown in many parts of India for its tender pods. The present study  was carried in Amritsar and Tarn Taran districts of Punjab state during 2020-21 to find the yield potential of four varieties of Cluster beans viz., AG 112, Thar Bhadavi, PVG-16 and HD 365. The variety PVG-16 showed better tender pods, number of pods per plant, good cooking quality and higher pod yield as compared to other varieties. Its pods are succulent. This variety outperformed in both location in terms of yield and its contributing traits.
    Key Words: Cluster beans, Guar, Varieties, Yield, Pods cluster, Legumes.

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Title: Prediction Models to Estimate the Relative Contribution of SocioEconomic Characteristics of Dairy Farmers’ Attitude towards Foot and Mouth Disease Vaccination

By: Subin K Mohan and P J Rajkamal

  • Abstract

    Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) can be controlled effectively if the right attitude is inculcated in dairy farmers.  The study was undertaken among a total of 120 dairy farmers (sixty experienced and sixty inexperienced) at three panchayaths of Thrissur district of Kerala State which threw light on the dairy farmers’ attitude towards FMD vaccination using stratified random sampling technique. An attitude scale was constructed as per the standard procedure of Likert methodology and the dairy farmers’ attitude towards FMD vaccination was measured. The results showed that the dairy farmers studied were having only an ambivalent or neutral attitude towards FMD vaccination despite half of the farmers studied were FMD experienced ones. Apart that it was found that between FMD experienced and in experienced dairy farmers there wasn’t a significant difference in their attitude towards FMD vaccination. Mass media exposure (0.301) and trainings attended (0.297) were positively and significantly correlated with the attitude of FMD experienced dairy farmers towards vaccination whereas it was herd size (0.276) and interpersonal communication (0.217) in case of FMD inexperienced. Attending trainings on FMD (0.213) was positively and significantly correlated with the overall attitude.
    Key Words: Attitude, Dairy farmer, Vaccination, Control, Correlation, Regression

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Title: Prediction of Tractor Power Take-Off Performance using Artificial Neural Network

By: Nitin Karwasra1 , Anil Kumar1 , Amarjit Kalra , S Mukesh and Vijaya Rani

  • Abstract

    Prediction of tractor PTO performance can lead to simulation and optimization of tractor performance,  allowing optimum setting of different parameters as well as enhancing decision-making of manufacturer in the design of new tractor. Twenty different parameters were selected as input for PTO performance prediction. The data used as input to train the network were collected from 141 tractor test reports tested between 1997-2013 at Central Farm Machinery Training and Testing Institute, Budni. A Back propagation artificial neural network (ANN) was developed using Neural Network Toolbox in Matlab software. A Matrix of 1704×20 and 1704×1 was used as input for PTO prediction in ANN. The optimum structure of neural network was determined by a trial and error method and 30 different structures were tried. For prediction ANN model with 2 hidden layers having 40 and 35 neurons in first and second layer, respectively
    gave highest performance. Regression coefficient and MSE for this model was 0.996 and 1.080.

    Key Words: Artificial neural network, Performance, Power, Prediction, Tractor, Transmission.

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Title: Problems faced by Small Tea Growers in Adoption of Tea Cultivation Practices in Assam

By: P Saikia, A K Bhattacharyya and Z Khuvung

  • Abstract

    Tea industry plays an important role in the state’s economy as well as India’s economy and also contribute  to the employment generation and poverty alleviation of the country. The study was conducted by selecting the districts of Upper Brahmaputra Valley Zone of Assam which comprises of the highest concentrated small tea growers (STGs) i.e., Tinsukia, Dibrugarh and Golaghat. Multistage purposive cum random sampling design was used for selection of respondents. A total of 400 (200 trained and 200 untrained) respondents constituted the sample of the study. Weighted mean score (WMS) was used to find out the intensity of the problems. The total rank scored for each problem was obtained by multiplying the frequency of problems with the respective weightage and adding them up. Then, the mean score of each of the problems was found out along with their respective rank. The major problem faced by the small tea
    growers in adopting recommended cultivation practices as perceived by them was high cost of planting materials, inadequate knowledge regarding infilling, high cost of some fungicides and fertilizer, inadequate knowledge in the use of pesticides, inadequate knowledge on soil pH and its management, lack of awareness about the method of propagation and advantages of mulching, non-availability of pruning machine.
    Key Words: Adoption, Problems, Recommended practices, Small Tea Growers.

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Title: Performance of Cowpea Variety DC-15 at Farmers’ Field

By: Dinesh Kumar S P, Sudha S and Kammar M R

  • Abstract

    The study on the impact of frontline demonstration of cowpea variety DC-15 on yield and economics  was conducted for two years, during 2017-18 and 2018-19 by ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Bagalkote (Karnataka) with an objective to assess the yield level of cowpea variety (DC-15) with an improved package of practices over old local variety and its economic impact. Improved practice recorded significantly higher grain yield of cowpea (18.11 q/ha) over farmers’ practice (12.62 q/ha) and there was a 43.43per cent increase in the yield. Similar trend was also noticed in the growth and yield parameters of cowpea. The improved technology in cowpea realized an additional income of Rs. 21,727/ha over farmers’ practice due to created greater awareness and convinced the other farmers to adopt the improved package of practices for cowpea.
    Keywords: Cowpea, Demonstration, Economics, Extension, Technology, Yield.

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Title: Performance of Location Specific Composite Maize (Zea mays L.) Variety in North Eastern Hilly Region of Mizoram

By: Senjit Singh Ashem and Zonunkimi Ralte

  • Abstract

    Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Lunglei conducted twenty five demonstrations across five selected villages  to disseminate the production technology of high yielding maize composite RCM 75. The improved technologies consisted of location specific improved high yielding composite variety, use of pre-emergence weedicides, use of fungicide as seed treatment, fertilizers, insect-pest management etc. The results indicate that with the transfer of improved technology, the grain yield of demonstration plots was considerably higher over farmers’ plot yield. The highest grain yield was obtained in demonstrated plot (50.73 q/ha) compared to 35.82 q/ha under farmers’ practice. The average increase in yield over farmers’ practice was 41.60 per cent. There was an average technology gap of 14.28 q/ha, average extension gap (14.91 q/ha) and average technology index (21.96 %). The decreased value of technology index reflected the feasibility of the
    variety in farmers’ field. By conducting front line demonstration of proven technologies, yield potential of maize cultivation can be enhanced to a great extent with increased income of the rural farming community.
    Key Words: Extension gap, Demonstration, RCM 75, Technology index,

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Title: Preference of Enterprises among Undergraduate Students of Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University

By: Pialy W. Momin, A Manivannan, P Thilakar, P R Nisha and G Senthil Kumar

  • Abstract

    The present study was conducted among 300 final year students from six constituent colleges functioning  under TANUVAS to ascertain their preference of enterprises. Majority of B.V.Sc & A.H (59.84%) and B. Tech. (Food/Dairy/Poultry Technology) students (58.69%) were willing to start an enterprise related to livestock and food based industries. The most preferred area of interest to start an enterprise among B.V.Sc & A.H students was small/ large animal clinic (Rank I) and the least preferred was boarding for dogs/kennels(Rank IX). Among B. Tech. (Food/Dairy/Poultry Technology) students, the most preferred area of interest was poultry related enterprise (Rank I) and the least preferred was engineering and marketing enterprise (Rank V).
    Key Words: Dairy, Demand, Eggs, Enterprises, Meat, Milk,

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Title: Quality Determinants of Effective Teaching-Learning Process at Agriculture Colleges

By: Dhanashri D Yadav , Swati S Khandave and H R Shinde

  • Abstract

    Effective teaching -learning process is cumulative outcome of all things which determines in quality. There  is need to develop a clear strategy for capacity building, participatory curriculum development of network and outreach program for improving teaching and learning. In this context, the present study will be helpful for prioritizing the indicators for improving teaching-learning. In present investigation total 140 respondents were selected, of which 50 were from constituent colleges and 90 were from affiliated colleges under Kolhapur region. Data were collected by personally interviewing respondents with the help of specially designed interview schedule. Contribution of sub indicators towards major indicators were identified, which contributesin effective teaching learning possess knowledge of the subject, self up dation by acquiring current knowledge,  course content should be well defined and structured, effective presentation, organization of course content, motivation for creative thinking, participatory and interactive, develop problem solving skills, well equipped laboratories this sub indicators were contributing more towards their major indicators than other indicators.
    Key Words: Agriculture, Education, Teaching, Learning, Indicators, Sub indicators.

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Title: Role of Organizational Structure and Behaviour for Ensuring Sustainability of Farmer Producer Organisations in Punjab

By: Manjinder Singh , Devinder Tiwari and Rajesh K Rana

  • Abstract

    Organisational structure of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) is an important factor contributing  towards performance of an FPO. Structure facilitates division of work and co-ordination of activities among the members for fulfilling goals and objectives of an organisation. This study aims to explore organisational structure of the registered FPOs in Punjab regarding their communication flow and functioning. The study was conducted with the help of randomly selected 10 FPOs (5 functional and 5 non-functional). Further, 15members from each selected FPO were randomly selected making a total sample of 150. The survey was carried out by personally interviewing the respondents using semi-structured interview schedule to identify the characteristics and the organisational framework of the FPOs. The study revealed that organisational structure has an explanatory effect on relationship between the shareholders and performance of the FPOs as the former influences the information flow and decision making in the organisation. The structural framework  was explained with help of a flow chart. Organisational characteristics of the FPOs were identified and it
    was revealed that the participation in the meetings, awareness about the meeting agenda and involvement in decision making of the members were statistically different in functional vis-à-vis non-functional FPOs.
    Key Words: Communication channels, Information flow, Organisational characteristics, Framework and
    performance, Reasons to join an FPO.

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Title: Socio-economic Status of Fishers and Fish Production Trends from Cage Culture in Chandil Reservoir, Jharkhand

By: Shweta Kumari and Arpita Sharma*

  • Abstract

    Socio-economic status of fishers involved in fish cage culture in Chandil reservoir, Jharkhand along with fish production trends and benefit cost (BC) ratio was analysed. Information was collected from 200 fisher members of 5 societies about age, education, fisheries experience, extension communication, house type/ ownership, drinking water, electricity, transportation, land ownership, family income and expenditure using interview schedule. Reliability of schedule was established by ‘test retest’ method. Information was collected about cage culture, fish production trends, cage cost, operational cost, total cost, and income. BC ratio and bivariate correlation were computed. It was found that Department of Fisheries leases reservoir, does fish stocking under different schemes of National Fisheries Development Board. Fisher members were involved from stocking to marketing. BC ratio was found to be 1.46 with income and experience having high correlation.
    Key Words: Cage culture, Fish, Production, Reservoir, Socio-economic status, Trend.

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Title: Soil Test-Based Fertilizer Application Enhanced Yield and Economics of Cauliflower in the Soils of North Western Himalayas

By: Subhash Kumar, K C Sharma, R K Rana, Chandertkanta Vats and Ramesh Lal

  • Abstract

    The experiments were conducted during 2018 and 2019 in the five villages of Kullu district of Himachal  Pradesh to study the impact of soil test based fertilizer application on yield, economics and soil properties in the cauliflower crop. Four treatments were T1: Farmer’s practice (FP) 12:32:16 (NPK) 200 kg/ ha and Urea 150 kg/ha, T2: FYM @ 20 t/ha + Recommended dose of 100% NPK @ 125:75:70 kg/ ha and T3: Soil test based fertilizer application and T4: 50 % Recommended Dose + Water soluble fertilizer. The data recorded indicated that significant increase in the yield with the percent increase of 65.90 , 36.12 , 61.09 , 54.50 and 40.61 per cent over the treatment T1 at all the five locations (I, II, III, IV and V) where soil test based fertilizers were applied. Higher additional net returns and incremental benefit cost ratio (IBCR) were also recorded in the soil test based fertilizer application in the treatment T3 (Location I- Rs. 70,060/- and 4.41, IIRs. 56,125/- and 3.54, III- Rs. 97,495/- and 6.14, IV- Rs. 92,065/- and 5.80 and V- Rs. 69,078/- and 4.35) over the farmer’s practice. The pH and organic carbon were recorded no significant change during the years of
    study whereas N, P and K changed significantly due to the application of NPK fertilizers on the soil test basis.
    Key Words: Cauliflower, Fertilizer, Soil Testing, Target, Yield.

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Title: Study on North-East India’s Largest Dry Fish Market, its Production and Marketing Channels

By: Sumit Mallick1*, Rinku Gogoi2 , Rijusmita Sarma Deka , Parag Mani Deka and Jiaul Hoque

  • Abstract

    In Assam, more than 300 varieties of dried fish products are available. There is a scarcity of data on the  country’s dried fish product diversity and marketing structure. The marketing system for indigenously caught fish, cultured fish, and imported fish differs. The price of dried fish fluctuated dramatically depending on the season, which was linked to increased demand. Six marketing routes were identified, with the dry fish producer–assembler–commission agent (CA)–wholesaler–retailer–local distributor consumer channel,being the most dominant, accounting for roughly 56 per cent of the total dry fish sold at the market. Despite having higher marketing efficiency in this channel, its market share in terms of dry fish sales was the smallest, as consumers in North-Eastern states were not always able to purchase dry fish goods directly from wholesalers.
    Key Words: Analytical, Dry Fish, Marketing, Efficiency, Marketing Channels, Quality.

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Title: Susceptibility of Different Date Palm Varieties against Parlatoria blanchardii in Hyper Arid Region of Rajasthan

By: Rajendra Kumar and A R Naqvi

  • Abstract

    In this field investigation during 2017-2019, different varieties of Date Palm were investigated against Parlatoria blanchardii. Ten varieties were selected based on arid climate, and local regions. Nymph and adult insects were counted on 1 cm2 area of the lower surface of date palm leaflets and recorded together opposite to each inspected date palm at weekly intervals. Out of ten varieties screened for their relative susceptibility against date palm scale, P. blanchardii and revealed that none of them was found free from the scale attack. The varieties having population less than 15.19/cm2 were rated as less susceptible, those varieties having population more than 15.19/cm2 scale and up to 25.63/cm2 scale rated as moderately susceptible and the varieties having more than 25.63/cm2 population rated as highly susceptible to scale insect. Considering this formula varieties viz., Zagloul and Zahidi were rated as less susceptible with highest yield production 127 kg and 130 kg per plant/ year respectively., Sewi, Shamran, Khasab, Khadrawy and Khuneizi as moderately susceptible, whereas, Halawy, Medjool and Barhee, were noticed highly susceptible to scale insect.
    Key Words- Date palm, Halawy, Scale Insect, Variety, Medjool.

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Title: Technology Adoption in Apiculture and Socio-Psychological Determinants of Apipreneurs Influencing Adoption

By: Devapriya S Kaimal and Allan Thomas

  • Abstract

    The research paper emphasizes on exploration of the apipreneurs based on their level of adoption of the selected  scientific apiculture technology developed by Kerala Agricultural University . The study was conducted during 2019-2020 at College of Agriculture, Vellayani. The location of the study was Pathanamthitta, Idukki and Kottayam districts of Kerala where apiculture was predominant. Seventy-five apipreneurs were randomly selected and ex post facto research design was followed for the study. The study revealed that seven out of eighteen selected apiculture practices of Kerala Agricultural University had an adoption per cent greater than 90. The results also indicated that majority of the respondents had medium extent of adoption followed by high category and low adoption category. The socioeconomic attributes like total land holding, market intelligence, training attended, experience in beekeeping and employment generation were positively and significantly related at one per cent level of significance while institutional interventions, credit orientation, optimism and knowledge were significant at five per cent level of significance to the extent of adoption of the apipreneurs.
    Key Words: Apiculture, Beekeepers, Correlation, Honey, Technologies.

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Title: Utilization Pattern of Information and Communication Technology by the Under Graduate Agricultural Students of Rajasthan

By: Naresh Kumar Kumawat, I M Khan, Nitesh Kumar Tanwar and S Aravindh Kumar

  • Abstract

    The present study was conducted in S.K.N. Agriculture University, Jobner. There are four constituent colleges  of S.K.N. Agriculture University, Jobner and out of these 4, only two colleges, namely S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner (Jaipur) and College of Agriculture, Lalsot (Dausa) were selected purposely due to having sufficient ICT infrastructure for the use of agricultural students. A total of 105 respondents were selected using proportionate random sampling method. A pre-tested interview schedule was used to collect the data from the under graduate students. It was found that majority of the under graduate agricultural students in both the SKNCOA, Jobner and COA, Lalsot used mobile very frequently especially Whatsapp facility daily for 2 to 3 hours.
    Key Words: Agriculture, Internet, Skills, Utilization, Students.

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Title: Water Regimes and Soil Depth Influence on Seeds of Blood Grass (Isahcne miliacea Roth ex Roem et Schult)

By: Renjan B and Bindu B

  • Abstract

    Blood grass (Isahcne miliacea Roth ex Roem et Schult) is most dominant perennial weed species in the rice  under cultivated and fallow situations belongs to the family Poaceae. The laboratory experiment was conducted at the State seed farm, Kottarakkara, Kollam district, Kerala subjecting the weed seeds to varying soil and water depths. Blood grass free soil and water was used for the study. The design was completely randomised design with 3 replications and 25 treatments. Treatments were the combination of two factors (water depth at 5 levels (W1: 0 cm, W2: 2.5 cm, W3: 5.0 cm, W4: 7.5 cm, W5:10 cm) and soil depth of 5 levels (S1: 0 cm, S2: 2.5cm, S3: 5.0 cm, S4: 7.5 cm, S5: 10 cm). Depth of water regime showed that the germination, shoot length and vigour index of weed had only limited sensitivity to shallow water column but when the flooding depth was increased further there was significant decline. When the moist seeds were placed on the soil surface > 95 per cent of the seeds germinated and declined their germination and vigour index on increasing the soil depth. All the seeds failed to germinate at 10 cm soil depth under water column of 7.5 cm (W4
    S5) and 10cm (W5S5).
    Key Words : Blood grass, Depth, Isahcne , Regime, Soil, Vigour index Water.

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Title: Weed Smothering in Jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) by its High Density Broadcast Sowing

By: A K Ghorai and Suman Roy

  • Abstract

    Jute being a C3 crop, cannot compete with the C4 weeds at its early stage and requires about 40 per cent of total cost of cultivation in weeding process alone. Scarcity of farm labours during weeding, spiraling labour cost, slow mechanization in jute and environment concern of herbicides encouraged us to smother weeds in jute field by its high density sowing. Experiments were thus conducted for three years at ICARCRIJAF, Barrackpore focusing  mothering of composite weeds in jute field by its high density broadcast sowing (HDS, seed rate @ 6.0 kg/ha) and was compared with other weed management treatments. From the experiments it was found that fast growing dense jute canopy (200-348/m2 ) at 25 days after sowing with mean height of 29 cm, reduces the light penetration at its canopy base by 90-95 per cent and dominated all C4 weeds. It reduced the grass, broadleaf, sedges weed population and weed bio mass by 70, 98.5, 64.5 and 91.65 per cent, respectively over manual weeding twice. Remaining weeds were rudimentary, incapable of producing seeds and decomposed before jute harvest. Only 6.3 to 7.64 lakhs jute/ha i.e., 16 to 23.5 per cent of total initial population could be harvested at maturity, 125 to135 DAS. This high density jute sowing eliminated weeding and thinning processes, saved 102 man days/ha over conventional manual weeding, produced 3.82 t fibre/ha and was cheaper by Rs. 25,500/ha. Weed smothering by intercropping green gram with jute (1:1) was also found economic, produced 0.5-1.0 t pulse grain/ha along with 2.7-2.9 t jute fibre and 1.7 to 2 t nitrogen rich (2.35%) pulse waste/ha. Pre emergence herbicides Pretilachlor 50 EC and Ipfencarbazone 22.8 per cent SC were found effective for weed control in jute. Spraying of Pretilachlor 50 EC @ 0.9 l a.i/ha on paira crop, immediately after rice harvest was found effective for
    weed control in piara crop. Thus, weed smothering by high density broadcast jute sowing will eliminate dependence on manual weeding, herbicides, and mechaninical weeding and make jute farming sustainable.

    Key Words: Chemical, Economics, High density sowing, Light transmission, Mechanical, Smothering,Weed control

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Title: Yield Gap Minimization in Lentil (Cicer aeritinum L.) under Front Line Demonstration conducted in Indo Gangetic Plains of Eastern India

By: Mandhata Singh, Hari Govind and Deokaran

  • Abstract

    Lentil predominantly is the rainfed crop mainly grown in constrained environment. Yield gap of lentil will be minimized by implementation of suitable location specific agro techniques with timely and careful management. Frontline demonstrations (CFLD) on lentil were conducted during rabi season of 2015-16 to 2018-19 in Buxar district of Bihar. CFLD was conducted in 20 ha area in each year with plot size of 0.40 ha with active participation of 50 farmers in two clusters to popularize the technology and quantifying the yield gap analysis in lentil. Demonstrated technology under CFLD enhanced the plant growth and yield attributes. Seed yield of lentil was recorded higher under CFLD (14.52 q/ha) compared to farmers’ practice (11.46 q/ha) which was 26.70 per cent higher over farmers’ practice, 32.12 per cent higher over district yield (10.99 q/ha) and 49.69 per cent higher over state yield (9.70 q/ha). Technology gap was recorded 2.11, 2.08, 1.4 and 0.33 q/ha in year 2015-16, 16-17, 17-18 and 2018-19, respectively. Extension gap was recorded 4.02, 4.05, 2.5 and 1.67 q/ha during 2015-16, 16-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19, respectively. Technology index was recorded 13.19, 13.0, 8.75 and 2.06 per cent during 2015-16, 16-17, 17-18 and 18-19, respectively. Average net return of Rs 36,346/- was recorded in demonstration and Rs22,281/- in farmers’ practice. The net return under demonstration was 63.12 per cent higher over farmers practice. Average benefit cost ratio of 2.41 recorded with demonstration and 1.90 with farmer’s practice.

    Key Words: Cluster frontline demonstration, Lentil, Pulses and Yield gap minimization.

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Title: Myclobutanil 10 WP, A Fungicide to Control Powdery Mildew of Grape in Cold Arid Zone of Kargil, Ladakh

By: Nassreen F.Kacho , Kunzang Lamo and Nazir Hussain

Title: Training Need Assessment of General Management for Livestock and Poultry Farmers of Baksa District of Assam

By: D Deka, A Ali1 , K Deka and D Bora

  • Abstract

    The present study was carried out in five blocks of Baksa district of Assam with the objective to assess the training needs on managemental strategies for livestock and poultry farmers of the district. For exploring the critical areas, different presumptive training needs on several topics were incorporated into an interview schedule in local language among 240 farmers selected randomly. The study depicted that more male farmers were engaged in livestock farming activities which warns the need for creating awareness and attract women and empower them to participate in livestock and poultry farming. Majority of the farmers (52.08 %) belonged to middle age group (30-39 yr) with high school level education having small farm holding (1 -2 ha) were involved in livestock and poultry farming. The training need index (TNI) of the livestock and poultry farmers was highest for special care during pregnancy/ calving followed by regular cleaning of farm premises. The study revealed that there was need to reorient the training programs and also to increase the number of training programmes for reducing the knowledge gap and gap on adopting technologies among the livestock farmers of the district.
    Key Words: Assessment, Farmer, Livestock, Poultry, Training needs.

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Title: Economic Efficiency of Crop Production in Hadoti Region of Rajasthan

By: Avdhesh Sharma* , P S Badal,Kumareswaran T,Anwesha Dey and Abha Goyal

  • Abstract

    Primary data obtained from 112 farmers dispersed over four blocks in the Hadoti region (Kota, Bundi, Baran, and Jhalawar districts) of Rajasthan were used to calculate the resource-use efficiency and marginal value product of mainly growing crops like wheat, soybean, gram, and urad production. To estimate the resource use efficiency and MVP a Cobb-Douglas production function was used. The yield of soybean was positively influenced by the use of more inputs like irrigation and human labour, gram by seed and irrigation, wheat by only machine labour, and urad by machine labour and seed, according to the study. Resource use efficiency of irrigation in soybean was found almost one, indicating that these resources are being used efficiently with full potential and that increasing their use could increase the yield of soybean. The under utilised resources need to be used more to boost the productivity of that crop in which it was
    used. The study will be helpful for policymakers related to resources used in the production process.

    Key Words: Economics, Crop production, Resource-use efficiency, Marginal value product.

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