Agriculture plays a significant part in the Indian economy and therefore entrepreneurship in agriculture holds great potential for the development of the country. The study was done in
Kottayam district in Kerala state. A purposive sampling technique was used. Entrepreneurs with more than three years\\\’ experience were selected. These entrepreneurs were grouped into four sectors, i.e., value addition, fisheries, animal husbandry and other enterprises. For each group 100 respondents were identified. The data were collected through telephonic interview using a pre-structured interview schedule. Data analysis was done by SPSS 20.0. Descriptive statistics were used to describe and summarize the properties of the mass of data. To test the hypothesis that two attributes are associated or not, the Chi-square test for independence was applied. Out of the total 400 agri-entrepreneurs, majority of them (68%) were found to be self-reliant agri entrepreneurs and the remaining (32%) belonged to government-reliant entrepreneurs. Nearly 94.1% of self-reliant agri-entrepreneurs and 71.9% of government-assisted agri-entrepreneurs were unaware of the schemes of assistance launched by Government of India. Agri entrepreneurs\\\’ awareness about various schemes of assistance launched by the Government of India differs. There exists a difference in the opinion among the agri-entrepreneurs regarding the reasons for not availing the schemes launched by the government.

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the most important pulse crops grown in the Indian subcontinent and known to cope with the protein demand of the major vegetarian population of our country. Besides its significance, the crop faces prodigious ignorance due to a range of biotic and abiotic stresses. However, Fusarium wilt caused by F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceri is one of the significant catastrophes to chickpea cultivation in every Indian state. The present study explored the potential of some indigenous Trichoderma isolates against two isolates of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceri viz., FOCUP1 (Uttar Pradesh) and FOCRJ1 (Rajasthan). Interestingly, all the tested Trichoderma isolates significantly inhibited the radial growth of both Fusarium isolates. However, more inhibition of indigenous Fusarium isolates (FOCUP1) (ranged between 71.85 to 80.37%) was recorded against all the tested Trichoderma isolates when compared to nonindigenous isolate, i.e., FOCRJ1 (ranged between 55.19 to 67.41%). Among all the tested isolates of Trichoderma spp., the highest inhibition in FOCUP1 was exhibited by T. viride (80.00%), followed by T. hamatum (77.78 %). However, in the case of FOCRJ1, T. hamatum 67.41%) was superior to other tested Trichoderma isolates, followed by T. viride (62.96%). This in-vitro study gave a clue to further exploitation of indigenous bioagents to mitigate losses incurred by this pathogen at a large scale.

Soybean is the most important oil seeds crop in many states of the country as a rain fed crop in kharif season, in terms of total production and international trades. However, losses due to weeds have been one of the major limiting factors in soybean production. So, successful weed control is one of the most important practices for economical soybean production. An experiment was laid out at the instructional farm of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ujjain to evaluate the efficacy of premix herbicide which could control both the grassy and broad leaf weeds. Use of fomesafen 12 % + quizalofop 3% w/w SC at different concentrations ranging from 1125 to 3000 ml ha-1 as post emergence reduced the weed density, increased weed control efficiency and yield apart from no phototoxic effect on plants and succeeding crop of garden pea.

The study was conducted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, to evaluate the groundwater quality in Nathusari Chopta block, Sirsa district, Haryana, during the year 2019 to 2021. Due to an average  rainfall of only 300 mm, farmers in the region heavily rely on canal and tubewell water for irrigation. A total of 150 water samples were analyzed for parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC), carbonate (CO?²?), bicarbonate (HCO??), chloride (Cl?), calcium (Ca²?), magnesium (Mg²?), and residual sodium carbonate (RSC). The results indicated that 38% of the samples were suitable for all crops, with EC levels between 0-2 dS/m. However, 35% of samples exhibited medium to high salinity (4-8 dS/m), and 11% showed very high salinity (>12 dS/m),which limits crop choices and requires careful management. The study highlighted the  importance of regular groundwater quality monitoring and management for sustaining soil health and crop production. Recommendations included blending saline groundwater with canal water, periodic water quality testing, and adjusting crop choices based on water quality to mitigate adverse effects, especially in areas with high salinity and low rainfall.

An investigation was conducted to assess the compatibility of widely utilized fungicides and insecticides, applied at recommended dosages, with Trichoderma asperellum under in vitro
conditions. A total of ten fungicides and nine insecticides were individually evaluated for their compatibility.. Trichoderma asperellum was compatible with fungicides sulphur and copper oxychloride, where the percentage inhibition was 18.55 and 31.55, respectively. The biocontrol agent showed moderate compatibility with fungicides, potassium phosphonate, mancozeb and propineb. All the systemic fungicides tested were highly incompatible with Trichoderma asperellum and exhibited cent percent inhibition. As compared to fungicides, insecticides were relatively more compatible with Trichoderma asperellum. Insecticides acephate, flubendiamide,thiamethoxam and spiromesifen did not suppress the in vitro growth of Trichoderma. Imidacloprid and cartap hydrochloride inhibited the growth of Trichoderma partially and expressed moderate compatibility. High level of incompatibility of Trichoderma was observed with insecticides quinalphos and dimethoate. The in vitro study indicated the possibility of using these compatible chemicals in integrated pest management along with the biocontrol agent, Trichoderma asperellum.; further field level investigations are needed for further confirmation.

The present study was under taken in the Malwa Plateau Agro-climatic zones of Madhya Pradesh where chick pea is one of the most important pulse crops and covers highest area. A list of villages where CFLD pulses programme was implemented for the last five year was taken from the respective KVKs. 15 beneficiary farmers and 15 non beneficiary farmers were selected randomly from each village. Thus, total 120 beneficiary and 120 non-beneficiary farmers were selected for the study. An ex-post facto research design was used. It was found that, majority of the problems faced by chickpea growing farmers were related to production constraints. Majority of the chickpea grower\’s reported that high infestation of insect,disease (91.66%) with rank I followed by non availability of fertilizers at proper time (85%) with II rank ,unfavourable weather condition (81.66%) with III rank, incidence of weeds menace (79.16%) with IV rank, not availability of loan at proper time (55.83%) with V rank, not available of seed at time (52.50%) with VI rank, lack of proper resource and money (50.83%) with rank-VII, high cost of agricultural inputs (46.67%) with the rank-VIII, lack of good quality of seeds with the rank-IX .

Maharashtra state has vast fisheries resources at its disposal and considered as one of the vital maritime state in India. The current study was carried out with the objective of understanding the various constraints faced by the beneficiaries in the Konkan region, Maharashtra in adoption of schemes/programmes. The constraints faced by beneficiaries were categorized as social, financial, infrastructure, core fisheries and administrative constraints. The weighted average technique was used to analyze and rank various constraints faced by beneficiaries. Information was collected from 200 fishers from 4 coastal districts of Konkan region, Maharashtra. The study revealed that core fisheries constraints ranked first with weighted average score of 81.72 followed by financial constraints (80.05) as second, infrastructure (78.76) as third, administrative (75.54) as forth and social constraints (73.89) as least ranked constraints. Among the core fisheries related constraints availability of input (diesel) was highest. In financial constraints increasing price of diesel ranked first. Highest infrastructure related constraints were poor landing and berthing facilities whereas under the social related constraints conflicts in the area of fishing ranked first. The study suggested that, more efforts are needed to address the various constraints faced by beneficiaries in adoption of schemes/programmes.

The study was carried out to assess the constraints faced by trawler operators in usage of ICT and sea safety tools by trawler operators of Ratnagiri block, Maharashtra. For the study trawler operators from the seven different landing centers of Ratnagiri block were randomly selected. Information was collected from 102 trawler operators with the help of structured interview schedule. Descriptive statistical tool was used to study the socio-personal information and weighted average technique were used to assess the constraints faced by trawler operators in usage of ICT and sea safety tools. Result of the study revealed that, majority of trawler operators (66.67%) belongs to middle age group (41-60 years). About 78.43% trwaler operators had annual income between ? 100001-250000. It was observed that lack of training/ awareness programs, high price of ICT tools, low durability of sea safety tools was the main reasons for limiting the usage of ICT and sea safety tools among the trawler operators. Therefore it was necessary to enforce rules such as Maharashtra Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1981 and rules, Merchant Shipping Act and Marine Fishing Policy etc in a participatory mode so as to increase usage of ICT and sea safety tools among trawler operators.

Effective extension models are vital for empowering farmers and enhancing both productivity and profitability. Rythu Bharosa Kendras (RBKs), an innovative initiative launched by the Andhra Pradesh government, aim to provide an integrated platform addressing farmers\’ needs from seed to sale at the village level. RBKs represent a significant advancement in agricultural support at the grassroots level, understanding and addressing the constraints faced by the technical staff was essential. This investigation offered insights into the required corrective measures to ensure the effective operation and service delivery of RBKs to the farmers. The study investigated the constraints encountered by RBK staff in delivering agricultural services using ex-post facto research design and multistage sampling approach, collecting data from 120 respondents across four districts of Andhra Pradesh. Constraints were analyzed through Garret ranking technique, revealed that discrepancies between old survey records and e-Panta geocoordinates complicate accurate e-crop booking by staff, Village Agricultural Assistants (VAAs) involvement in unscientific activities mandated by higher authorities compromised the quality of services to farmers and delay in releasing soil testing reports undermine farmers\’ trust in VAA at RBKs were the predominant constraints. These constraints collectively impact the effectiveness of RBKs in delivering agricultural services. Tackling these diverse constraints with specific interventions is therefore essential for optimizing RBK operations, improving service delivery, and increasing agricultural productivity.

Miyawaki forest creation, a methodology developed by Japanese botanist Prof. Akira Miyawaki, involves planting trees per square meter which is a promising approach for  maximization of green cover and to support biodiversity locally. The present investigation on Miyawaki Model forest unit created at KVK Palakkad was envisaged in preparing a database for 47 different species of saplings that were planted randomly which includes flowering, fruiting, ornamental and medicinal plants. Database prepared represents the native plant species, plant type, life form, tree layer and survival rate that can be used for recommending for a particular locality for further creations of Miyawaki forest. Based on this study, Ficus racemosa (T4), Ficus religiosa (T5), Cassia fistula (T10), Annona squamosa (T15) and Terminalia elliptica (T9) with excellent and good performance came out as candidates for Miyawaki forest. For forest restoration projects, these plants can be recommended as a suitable and proper species to plant in Palakkad district.

This study investigated the determinants of non-farm diversification among agricultural households in Punjab. The research used a logistic regression model to identify factors
influencing non-farm participation, analyzed data from a multistage random sample of 180 agricultural households from central zone of Punjab. Key determinants included household
heads\’ age, skill development training and access to institutional credit. The findings highlighted the need for targeted policies to support skill development, improve access to credit and create opportunities for non-farm employment to enhance rural livelihoods in Punjab.

Sericulture plays important role in empowerment of women and this study emphasized on calculating the cost and return of cocoon production and reeling unit. The study was carried out in Chikballapur district of Karnataka state. Multistage sampling was done in Sidlaghatta and Chintamani taluks based on highest area under mulberry cultivation. Sixty women entrepreneur were selected from both the taluka undertaking both enterprises (15 each). Total cost involved in cocoon production was Rs. 0.548/- lakh per batch which comprises of Rs. 0.076/- lakh fixed cost and Rs. 0.472 lakh variable cost. Gross return accounted to Rs. 0.803 lakh/per batch and 6.826 lakh/year. Price of cocoon was Rs. 550/-kg. Returns per rupee invested was 1.40 for cocoon production. Capital requirement of multi end reeling unit was Rs 6.308 lakh comprised of reeling house, boiler and reeler .Cost involved in raw silk production was Rs. 0.405 lakh and annual expenditure was Rs. 106.059 lakh and returns from raw silk production was Rs. 119.054 lakh/year and Rs. 0.458 lakh/day. Returns per rupee investment was 1.13.

This study evaluated the effects of feeding biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs) on growth performance, nutrient utilization, and tissue mineral concentrations in Vanaraja chickens. Birds were divided into six groups: a zinc-negative control, a positive control receiving 60 ppm inorganic zinc, and four groups supplemented with 15 ppm, 30 ppm, 45 ppm, and 60 ppm ZnNPs. Over an 8-week period, parameters such as feed consumption, growth rates, feed conversion ratio (FCR), nutrient utilization, zinc bioavailability, and tissue zinc concentrations were recorded. Feed intake during the starter phase remained stable, averaging 461.96 to 472.58 g, while significant decreases were observed in the finisher phase (2320.65 to 2447.93 g), indicating enhanced feed efficiency associated with ZnNPs. Growth rates improved significantly during the finisher phase (953.11 to 1036.06 g) and overall (1162.21 to 1246.67 g), highlighting the potential of ZnNPs to optimize nutrient absorption. FCR values ranged from 2.24 to 2.51, with ZnNP groups achieving efficiencies comparable to the positive control, suggesting that ZnNPs can replace conventional zinc sources. Although nutrient utilization effects were statistically insignificant, higher ZnNP doses increased zinc retention in bone (up to 347.28 ppm) and liver tissues. These findings indicate that ZnNP supplementation can enhance growth efficiency and zinc bioavailability in poultry

Summer moong is emerging as cash crop in Punjab where paddy-wheat rotation is followed on a large area. An experiment was conducted to find out the most suitable spacing for sowing of summer moong in order to get higher benefits by increasing grain yield. The trial was laid out in factorial RBD with 3 X 2 factors. In this trial, three row to row spacing and two plant to plant spacing were taken with three replications. Row to row spacing of 20cm, 22.5cm and 25 cm were taken along with spacing of 7.5cm and 10 cm. The grain yield obtained was 12.68q/ha and 13.05q/ha of the crop sown at 22.5cm X 7.5cm and 22.5cm X 10.0 cm spacing, respectively.Therefore, it was inferred that summer moong variety SML 1827 could be sown at a row to row spacing of 22.5 cm with plant to plant spacing of 7.5 to10.0 cm.

The present investigation was conducted at Guru Kashi University Research Farm during 2022-2023, Punjab on evaluating the effect of plant growth regulator on grape cv. Flame seedless cutting. These cutting was treated with different concentration of indole-3-butyric acid (T : 11000, T : 1500 and T : 2000 ppm) and gibberellic acid (T : 50, T : 100 and T :150 ppm) along 2 3 4 5 6 with control (T ) using prolonged dipping method. The result revealed that T : gibberellic acid 0 6 @150 ppm (9.33) showed minimum numbers of days taken for first emergence of nodes whereas, T : indole-3-butyric acid @ 1500 ppm (8.67) showed minimum days of the first roots 2 emergence. The maximum survival percentage was recorded in the cutting treated with T : 3 indole-3-butyric acid 2000 ppm (80.00%). Hence, T : indole-3-butyric acid @ 1500 ppm was 2 showed good vegetative and root growth in selected root cutting of grape (Vitis vinifera L.) cv.Flame Seedless.

Duck farming is a customary livelihood option utilizing the topographical peculiarities of Kuttanad wetland ecosystem and is important for income generation and employment
opportunities .Present study was conducted to analyse labour utilization pattern and income generation from duck farming in Kuttanad region of Kerala. Multistage random sampling was employed for selection of respondents and comprised of total of 150 farmers. Four systems of rearing viz., Back yard rearing, semi intensive, nomadic and nursery rearing were identified and majority followed semi intensive system of rearing. The labour utilization pattern and income generation varied among different systems of rearing. Backyard rearing was found to provide an average daily employment of nearly 22.8 days per annum for the family. All other systems of duck rearing in Kuttanad region utilized both family labour and hired labour. The nomadic farming system found to be providing full time employment to the labourers throughout the season of flock migration and generated highest income. The gross income from back yardrearing system ranged from Rs. 300 to Rs.21,000 with an average of Rs. 5036/annum. The gross income from duck nurseries ranged from Rs. 15,990 to Rs. 3, 75,000 with an average income of Rs. 93,077/annum. The gross income from semi-intensive rearing system ranged from Rs. 5,000 to Rs.5, 26,000 with an average of Rs. 2, 30,119/annum. The gross income from nomadic rearing system ranged from Rs. 2, 50,000-7,40,000 with an average of Rs. 3,50,750/annum. The annual  family income of farm families were concomitant with their respective income from duck farming.

Banana can be grown in a wide range of soils. Soil and land parameters are one of the important requirements deciding the production and productivity of the crop. Sodic soils are those which have an exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) of more than 15.The present study was conducted at Horticultural college and Research Institute for women, Trichy for Evaluation of banana germplasm under sodic soil. The experiment was laid out in Randomized block Design (RBD). The treatments comprised eleven types of germplasm or varieties i.e., Kaveri Kalki (ABB), Adukku Monthan (ABB), CO2 (AB), Kaveri Saba (ABB), Monthan (ABB), Udhayam (ABB), Poovan (AAB), Karpooravalli (ABB), Kaveri Haritha (ABB), Ney Poovan (AB), and Vayal Vazhai (ABB). Among the 11 treatments screened Udhayam (T6) recorded highest bunch weight, followed by Kaveri Saba (T4) and Karpooravalli (T8). Highest yield was recorded in the cultivars having ABB genome in them, such as Udhayam (T6), Kaveri Saba (T4) and Karpooravalli (T8). The germplasm/varieties like Udhayam, Kaveri Kalki and Karpooravalli showed maximum number of hands. The maximum number of fingers was observed in Udhayam (T6) and Karpooravalli (T8). From the above study the germplasm/varieties having the Musa balbisiana genome were found to perform well under the sodic soil conditions, when compared to the Musa acuminata species due to their physiological characteristics to survive under adverse climatic conditions.

The adoption of high-density (HD) apple orchards in Kashmir, particularly for the cultivar Gala, provides a pathway for improving productivity and fruit quality. Effective crop load
management, especially during the formative years, is essential to avoid biennial bearing and maintain yield consistency. This study, conducted as an On-Farm Trial (OFT) from 2022 to 2024 in the Anantnag district, assesses the impact of various thinning methods on fruit quality, yield, and economic returns in HD Gala orchards. Six thinning treatments, encompassing both chemical and manual methods, were evaluated against a control. The findings demonstrate that precision crop load management significantly enhanced fruit size, uniformity, and marketable yield, affirming the critical role of thinning in HD systems.

Paddy Royalty scheme is a financial incentive mechanism formulated on the basis of payments  for ecosystem services (PES) concept, wherein the paddy wetland owners were compensated for the ecosystem services that their resource provided. This study attempted to estimate the farmer participation in paddy royalty scheme. The factors that affected farmers\’ participation was analyzed in a logistic regression framework, using the primary data collected from randomly selected 118 paddy farmers from Kole wetlands of Kerala. Further, it was also tried to identify and rank the constraints that limited the farmer response towards the scheme. The farmers\’ participation in the year 2023-24 was 57% but only 40% of the farmers were willing to participate in next year. Education, land holding size, farmer association membership and digital literacy were found to be positively influencing the participation whereas age influenced negatively. The most severe constraint identified was insufficiency in royalty amount followed by high transaction costs. Adopting a comprehensive approach that includes better programme design, increased incentives and supportive policies, the government can encourage greater  participation to achieve the primary scheme objectives of sustaining paddy cultivation and preserving wetlands, thereby ensuring the food security and ecological sustainability in the state.

A field survey was undertaken to record the prevailing feeding management methods employed by dairy farmers in the Kandi region of Hoshiarpur district in Punjab. The study encompassed on 80 farmers from various villages. Structured interviews, utilizing a pre-tested questionnaire, were conducted to gather information about the existing feeding practices. The data were recorded through direct interaction with the farmers and first hand observations. The study revealed there was a limited supply of both green and dry fodder available in the area. As a result,farmers relied on acquiring both dry and green fodder through purchases, considering the limited availability of land at their disposal. Concentrate feed was primarily given to lactating animals but in restricted amounts. Concentrate was often prepared at home consisting of majorly wheat grains as primary energy source and mustard and cotton seed cake as protein, fat and fibre sources. Knowledge about fodder preservation methods like silage and hay-making was lacking. Similarly, the recognition and implementation of providing concentrate mixtures during late lactation/transition period were also missing. The importance of feeding mineral mixture and vitamins were also limited. Consequently, the dairy farmers in the region were deficient in scientific knowledge concerning dairy management, leading to compromised production and reproductive performance outcomes. Therefore, there is a need to conduct various trainings to educate the dairy farmers of the area for obtaining better performances and returns.

Field trials were conducted to study the toxicity of chloronicotinyl compound, imidacloprid against the predator, coccinellids in cotton cultivars, Ranjit and MCU 12. All the imidacloprid
treatments, irrespective of doses recorded a sudden decrease in the coccinellids population after application, in cotton ecosystem, but found to increase in numbers subsequently. The
neonicotinoid check, thiamethoxam was also found to be similar to imidacloprid in its toxicity to coccinellids. Thus, the results revealed that neonicotinoids were relatively safer to coccinellids when compared to conventional insecticide methyl demonstration.

This study investigated the development and assessment of a protein-fortified ready-to-serve (RTS) beverage from papaya juice, enriched with milk and soy protein isolates. Different
proportions of milk protein isolate (MPI) and soy protein isolate (SPI) were used to enhance the protein content. Among the formulations tested, the RTS beverage with 5% milk protein isolate and 10% soy protein isolate resulted in the highest sensory acceptability. Throughout a 60d storage period in PET bottles at room temperature, no microbial spoilage was observed, indicating good shelf stability. Sensory quality parameters, such as appearance, colour, flavour, taste and overall acceptability remained basically unaffected by the protein levels even as slight increases in titratable acidity and total soluble solids (TSS) were observed, alongside a reduction in pH, ascorbic acid, and protein content. Final protein levels in the RTS beverage were 4.7 g/100 ml for the 5% MPI formulation and 9.8 g/100 ml for the 10% SPI formulation. These results support the feasibility of commercially producing protein-fortified papaya RTS beverages are offering an innovative and nutrient-enriched option for consumers.

This study investigated the efficacy of Integrated Disease Management (IDM) compared to Farmer\’s Practices (FP) for controlling collar rot disease in groundnut cultivated on coastal
sandy soils in the Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh, India. A survey in the rabi season (2019-2020) revealed significant variation in disease incidence across locations, with factors like previous crop and seed treatment influencing severity. Seed treatment with carbendazim or mancozeb significantly reduced disease compared to untreated plots. Locations with watermelon as the previous crop and those lacking organic amendments like FYM exhibited higher disease incidence. A field experiment evaluated IDM practices consisting of seed and seedling protection with fungicide (Tebuconazole @ 1g/Kg), soil application of biocontrol agent (FYM enriched with Trcihoderma asperellum) and need based in situ fungicidal application (hexaconazole @ 2ml/L) and farmer\’s practices treatments on disease incidence at 10, 20, and 30 days after sowing (DAS). IDM consistently resulted lower disease incidence at all stages compared to FP. At 10 DAS, IDM showed a 2.46% disease incidence compared to 10.04% for FP (p < 0.05). This trend continued at 20 DAS (5.87% vs 17.64%, p < 0.05) and 30 DAS (6.64% vs 24.35%, p < 0.05). These findings suggested that IDM practices effectively suppress collar rot development, possibly through a combination of cultural, chemical, and biological control measures.

Indian dairy industry is one of the largest and fast growing industries which contribute significantly to the national economy. The global dairy market has undergone significant
structural changes in recent times, particularly concerning milk production. But even though India is the world\’s largest milk producer, it only managed to capture one per cent of global dairy trade. Under this backdrop, the study was undertaken with the objectives to determine the growth of export/import of dairy products from 2001-2022 and calculate competitiveness of India\’s dairy products in the world market. The study is based on secondary data. The structural change in import and export of Indian dairy products was examined by Chow test and for direction of trade Gauss Markov Chain analysis was applied. The results of study showed that there was structural change in import/export of Indian dairy products in year 2013. After that data have witnessed a remarkable growth in export of dairy products and decline in import as a consequence of Intensive Dairy Development Programme initiated by Government of India. The result of direction of trade showed Bangladesh, Egypt and other countries are the loyal importers and USA, New Zealand and other countries are the loyal exporters of Indian dairy products throughout the study period. Study recommends that to enhance the production and global trade of dairy products, additional efforts should be directed towards the implementation of dairy development programs.

Microorganisms in soils and their enzymatic activities play a critical role in maintaining soil fertility and sustaining crop productivity by nutrient transformation and organic matter
decomposition. The present investigation was carried out to assess the effect of long term continuous cultivation of rice on microbial population and soil enzymatic activities that was
c o m p a r e d w i t h a d j a c e n t u n c u l t i v a t e d s o i l s . F o r t h i s G e o – r e f e r e n c e d (N:26031.882\’to26018.224\’and E:091030.536\’to091015.750\’) soil samples (0-15cm depth) were  collected after harvest of rice from rice-fallow system and adjacent uncultivated sites.A total of 120 numbers of soil samples were collected and microbial counts of general bacteria, fungi, Azotobacter, Azospirillum, Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and soil enzymatic activities viz. Dehydrogenase (DHA), Fluroscence diacetate hydrolases (FDA), Phosphomonoesterase (PME) and Arylsulphatase (ARYL) were determined following standard procedures.The results revealed that population of bacteria (6.49 log cfu g-1), Azotobacter (3.77log cfu g-1), 10 10 Azospirillum (3.75log cfu g-1), Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (3.71log cfu g-1), registered 10 10 higher in rice-fallow cultivated soils compared to adjacent uncultivated soils ( bacteria-6.36 log cfu g-1, Azotobacter-3.62 log cfu g-1,Azospirillum-3.54 log cfu g-1, PSB- 3.69 log cfu g-1and 10 10 10 10differed significantly (p<0.05),whereas the population of fungi was found more in uncultivated (5.38log cfu g-1) soils compared to rice cultivated soils (5.30 log cfu g-1).The soil enzymatic 10 10
activities viz. DHA , FDA, PME and ARYL were recorded significantly (p<0.05) higher in rice – fallow soils (DHA-79.01?g TPF g-1 24 h-1, FDA-12.16?g fluorescein g-1 h-1, PME-114.06?g p- nitro phenol g-1 h-1, ARYL-21.43 ?g p -nitrophenol g-1 h-1) as compared to uncultivated soils  DHA-66.26?g TPF g-1 24 h-1, FDA-9.49 ?g fluorescein g-1 h-1, PME-92.14?g p-nitro phenol g-1 h-1, ARYL-15.72?g p-nitrophenol g-1 h-1). The results indicated that continuous cultivation of rice crop followed by a fallow period enhanced the biological properties of soils including microbial population count and enzymatic activities in soils.

The Cluster Front Line Demonstrations on toria were carried out during two consecutive rabi season 2021-22 and 2022-23 using the toria variety TS 67 covering an area of 18 ha.
Identifications of the critical inputs and technical backstopping were identified though focus group discussions and face to face interactions with the farmers. The results of the study showed significant increase in the average yield of demonstration plots (28.23%) as compared to farmer\’s plots. However, lower yield observed in the farmer\’s practices was due to the considerable gap in the extent of adoption of recommended technology. The average technology gap, extension gap and technology index of toria crop was estimated to be 3.97 q/ha, 1.76 q/ha and 33.12 percent respectively. An average additional income of Rs. 9702 and effective gain of Rs. 8357 were obtained under demonstration plot could be on account of the use of improved technology, non-monetary factors,timely operation of the technology and monitoring. The overall higher yield and returns in  demonstrations indicated that the productivity at farmer\’s field could be enhanced through the adoption of improved technologies.

Mango repeatedly acclaimed as the king of fruits, is the most important commercially grown  fruit of India due to its wide range of adoptability, high nutritive value and excellent flavour. However its productivity had shown declining trend over the years which need to be addressed. Hence, the farmer field school (FFS) was conducted for twenty five mango growing farmers. Significant increase in knowledge gain was observed among farmers after completion of FFS. Further it enhanced the adoption per cent of production practices in mango which ranged from 36 to 100 per cent. Cent per cent of farmers adopted technologies like mulching, fruit harvesting using tools and artificial ripening of fruits using ethylene gas. Small per centage (36 %) of farmers adopted the technologies related to spongy tissue management, post-harvest treatment with hot water, increasing shelf life of the fruits with plant wax, processing and values addition. A change in level of adoption was also recorded for eco-friendly management of fruit flies.

The present study was taken from March 2023 to February 2024 to determine the prevalence of hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE) in dogs that were presented to Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary Science, Garividi with the purpose to determine the prevalence and associated etiologies causing hemorrhagic gastroenteritis in the area. A total of 1292 dogs were presented to the VCC with the history of anorexia, dullness, vomiting, hematemesis, blood tinged/ brownish colored diarrhea and putrid odour feces. The overall prevalence of HGE was 19.2 per cent among the presented cases. The prevalence in young ones (< 6 months) was higher than the adult dogs (above 3 years) with prevalence ranging from 62.1 to 2.4 per cent, respectively. The prevalence was higher in male (75.8%) than female (24.2%) dogs. Mongrel breed of dogs showed high prevalence of 40.72 per cent followed by Spitz, Labrador, German shepherd and lowest in Pug, Husky and Terrier breeds of dogs with 1.21 per cent. HGE due to Canine Parvovirus infection (45.2%) followed by intestinal parasitic infestation (27.8%), combined infection of parvovirus and intestinal parasites (12.5%), other conditions (9.7%) and Isosporiosis (4.8%) were the etiologies that resulted in HGE in dogs.

Primary dysmenorrhea refers to the common menstrual cramps experienced by most women during the menstrual period. To ascertain the prevalence and impact of primary dysmenorrhea among women, the present survey was carried out with a sample of 589 women aged between 15- 45 years. A standardized questionnaire was used to obtain the relevant data online. The results revealed that the prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 80.4%. The pain intensity was severe among 23.5% of subjects, whereas moderate and mild pain intensity was experienced by 45.5% and 31% of the subjects respectively. The subjects were reported to be experiencing menstrual pain for 1-3d. The impact of primary dysmenorrhea was observed in terms of loss of concentration in work (57%), being absent from work (28.4%) and inability to participate in social activities (28.3%). Apart from this impact on the daily chore activities, the women showed symptoms like back pain (64.4%), extreme tiredness (57.6%), mood swings (50.8%), acne (37.8%) and abdominal bloating (29.4%). It can be concluded from the current study that the majority of women experience moderate to severe pain during the menstrual time to the extent that the daily routine is disturbed and it would be appropriate to formulate pain management strategies to overcome the distress.

Productive performance of White Pekin ducks reared under semi-intensive system in Jorhat and Majuli districts of Upper Assam has been studied through Front Line Demonstration (FLD) programme organized by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Jorhat during 2020 to 2024. Study envisaged the key performance indicators including body weight gain at various ages, mortality rate, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), gross return per duck, gross cost per duck, and benefit-cost ratio (BCR) and compared against local Pati ducks. The BCR for White Pekin ducks was found to be 1.63, indicating significantly higher profitability compared to a BCR of 1.19 for local ducks. It has been revealed that White Pekin ducks has significant advantages in respect of other performance parameters like growth rate, FCR, and economic returns over the local breeds.

Hull-less pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo subspp pepo var styrica) seeds have a high pharmaceutical value and consumed as snack seeds. It is newly added member in Cucurbita spp, as being evolved by natural single recessive mutation in the 19th century. It is notable for high seed oil content and the absence of hard seed coat have smoothened the process of oil extraction. Its seeds and seed oil are rich in fatty acid content. In present experiment, 46 advance breeding lines of hull less seeded pumpkin were characterized to assess fatty acid content. Four predominant fatty acids found in oil of 46 pumpkin genotypes in variable range were oleic acid (22.9-50.1%), stearic acid (2.2-5.5%), palmitic acid (6.6-14.70%) and linoleic acid (34.3-48.3%) and all together made (79.50-99.80%) of total fatty acid content. The pumpkin seed oil contained 15.04% saturated fatty acids (palmitic and stearic acid) and 82.93% unsaturated fatty acids (linoleic and oleic acid). Among 46 genotypes, PWT-22(50.1%), PWT 14(48.3%) and PWT-41(5.5% and 14.76%) were highest in oleic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid and palmitic acid respectively.

A field experiment has been conducted with high yielding variety of rice (cv RCM 6) during 2023-24 kharif season to determine impact of Phosphorus (P) treatment in association with
vermicompost and seedling root dip in PSB on length of root at 30 and 45 day after transplanting, height of the plant, number of tiller per hill at 30, 45, 60 DAT and at harvest including seed yield. The experiment was carried out at Sihtlangpui, Krishi Vigyan Kendra Farm, Lawngtlai district, Mizoram. The height of the crop was significantly higher as 72.6, 112.3, 145.6 and 144.6 cm at 30, 45, 60 days after transplant and at harvest respectively in T3 over control and T2. The same trend was seen in number of tillers per hill. The length of the root also increased significantly from control at 30 and 45 DAT. The highest yield (4.9 t/ha) was observed in T3- Seedling root dip + Vermicompost + RDF which was significantly higher over control. It was evident that dipping the seedling root in Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria (500ml/L) mixed well with 5kg compost incorporated with recommended dose of fertilizer (80:60:40 NPK/ha) and vermicompost (10t/ha) during land preparation resulted in highest yield and could be recommended to farmers to augment the yield of lowland rice in Lawngtlai district.

The study was undertaken in Dhaner village of Barnala district of Punjab in which beneficiary farmers were selected for investigating their socio-behavioural attributes regarding detection of milk adulteration. The results elucidated that the mean age of farmers was 44.16 yrs, majority of the farmers were functionally literate whereby able to read and write Punjabi, had both agriculture and dairying as their occupation with mean land holding of 2.75 ha and herd size of 5.16 animals. Majority of farmers were having high level of perception and medium level of knowledge regarding detection of milk adulteration. There was a wide range of constraints which were analyzed using Garrett\’s Ranking Technique. Relational analysis suggested that perception varied significantly (p<0.05) with experience in dairy farming, herd size and per animal milk production. In case of knowledge, significant relationship (p<0.05) was established between age, education, experience in dairy farming, herd size and per animal milk production. The study concluded that detection of milk adulteration is not only vital for consumers but for producers as well for quality assurance. For building capacities of the farmers regarding detection of adulteration, multifarious extension activities may be carried out.

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have significantly transformed educational environments, offering new possibilities for learning and collaboration. However,
their effectiveness differs among students due to socio-personal and ICT engagement  factors.This study evaluated these factors among postgraduate students at Acharya N.G. Ranga
Agricultural University (ANGRAU) in Andhra Pradesh. Conducted during 2022-2023 with an ex-post facto research design, the study involved students from the university\’s colleges of
Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering & Technology, and Community Sciences. A total of 120 students were selected using proportionate random sampling. Data on socio-personal and ICT engagement factors were gathered through an interview schedule and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage. The results showed a higher representation of female students and a medium level of ICT tool knowledge. Although students exhibit high awareness of ICT services, they underutilized these tools for academic purposes. ICTs were primarily used for online lectures and entertainment, with minimal engagement in formal online courses. The study recommends enhancing advanced ICT training, improving resource accessibility, and better integrating ICT into educational frameworks. Future research should assess the effectiveness of these interventions and develop strategies to maximize ICT\’s impact on postgraduate academic success.

In Jharkhand, the tradition of tree planting is well-established, with farmers actively managing native multipurpose trees as a defining characteristic of agricultural landscapes. A prominent characteristic of perennial component based land management systems is their ability to enhance the physico-chemical properties of soil and hence the site\’s production potential.This study examined nine Multipurpose tree species (MPTs)planted at a spacing of 2×2 m in agroforestry systems at the College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, BAU, Ranchi, located in a subtropical humid climate in Northeast India. Species such as Millettia pinnata, Pterocarpus marsupium, Swietenia macrophylla, Acacia auriculiformis and Dalbergia sissoo depicted potential as live fences around farm boundaries, providing nitrogen-rich foliage for mulching  and manure. The presence of MPTs significantly improved soil properties, including enhanced soil humus and available nutrients, reduced soil erodibility, improved surface soil moisture and water retention capacity (0–30 cm depth). Notably, plots with Karanj (Millettia pinnata) exhibited higher concentrations of organic carbon (2.02%), nitrogen (174.68 kg/ha), and potassium (227.36 kg/ha). The study also revealed that the available soil nutrients get reduced with increasing soil depth. Overall, the findings underscored the importance of MPTs in enhancing the physicochemical attributes of soils.

An improved variety of backyard poultry namely Rajasri bird was demonstrated to rural farm women of SC community in Ranga Reddy district for improving their livelihoods in the year 2023. A total of 1300 birds were distributed to 65 identified SC beneficiary women farmers. Each unit comprised of five male and fifteen female chicks (20 birds in each unit), one bamboo basket,5 kg chick starter feed, feeder, and waterer. In the present study, Rajasri birds achieved sexual maturity at 174±14 d with an average body weight of 1250 to 1350 g. The average annual egg production/ bird was 155 to165 eggs per year with an average weight of 45 to 55 g and mortality rate of 2.7% in Rajasri birds. The findings indicated a substantial rise in income of Rs. 17,825 per household annually from the selling of eggs and male birds, as well as a notable increase in the intake of eggs and meat among rural scheduled caste families.

Rice is the staple food crop in Kerala which accounts for nearly all of the state\’s food grain production and is mainly cultivated under rainfed conditions during the Kharif season. The
critical influence of weather on rice productivity necessitates accurate and timely yield forecasts to aid agricultural planning. This study aimed to develop district-level rice yield prediction models for Kerala by analyzing the effects of essential weather variables: temperature, rainfall, relative humidity, and solar radiation on yield outcomes. Three statistical methods were employed: normal regression, Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Stepwise Multiple Linear Regression (SMLR). Among these models ANN demonstrated the highest predictive accuracy, with superior R² values across all districts, indicating its robustness in modeling yield variability based on weather parameters. The ANN model has the ability to capture complex, nonlinear relationships among weather variables underscores its reliability as a tool for rice yield forecasting in all districts of Kerala. This enhanced forecasting potential holds substantial value for proactive agricultural planning and decision-making, allowing stakeholders to better manage resources and mitigate climate risks to ensure stable rice production in the state.

An assessment of different vegetable pea varieties under organic conditions of hills was conducted during rabi season of 2021-22 and 2022-23. Eight vegetable pea varieties namely PM
128, Vivek Matar 11, Vivek Matar 12, Vivek Matar 13, Arkel, PC531, PSM 3 and PMR 85 with 3 replications were assessed in Randomized Block Design (RBD). The sowing was done in mid- November in both the years. Vivek Matar 13 was the first to flower 50 per cent (83.6 days in 2021-22 and 82 days in 2022-23) and gave first harvest (116 days in 2021-22 and 114.7 days in 2023) in both the years, followed by Arkel and PM 128. Significant differences were found in yield among different varieties of vegetable pea and Vivel Matar 13 gave the height yield that was statistically at par to Vivel Matar 11 and Vivel Matar 12. For quality attributes depending on consumer preference and marketability, Vivek Matar 13 and PMR 85 gained highest points and ranked as excellent followed by Vivek Matar 11 and Vivek Matar 12. Maximum gross return, net return and B:C was calculated for Vivek Matar 13, followed by Vivek Matar 11 and Vivek Matar 12.

An experiment was conducted to examine the effect of different tillage practices and nutrient management on yield and quality of sweet potato in the Onattukara sandy plains. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three main plot treatments, four subplot treatments and four replications. The main plot treatments were reduced tillage (T ), ridge tillage (T ) and 1 2 conventional tillage (T ). The subplots treatments were 100% RDF (n ), n + magnesium 3 1 1 sulphate @ 0.2% foliar spray @ 30 DAP (n ), n + borax @ 0.2% foliar spray @ 30 DAP (n ) and 2 1 3 n + borax @ 0.2% foliar spray @ 30 DAP (n ). The results revealed that, in the Onattukara sandy 2 4 loam soils of Kerala, higher number of tubers per vine, marketable tubers per vine, tuber yield per hectare and vitamin C can be obtained, when sweet potato vines were planted under reduced tillage (only one shallow primary tillage) and supplied with the recommended dose of fertilizers (FYM @ 10 t/ha, N, P O5 and K O @ 75:50:75 kg/ha) along with one foliar application of 2 2 magnesium sulphate followed by borax (both @ 0.2%) at 30 days after planting.

A six years old jersey crossbred full-term pregnant cow was presented with a history of prolonged straining and dystocia. Vaginal examination revealed diprosopus monster calf with
bilateral shoulder flexion. The monster calf was delivered per vaginum successfully by traction and the dam recovered uneventfully. The diprosopus fetal monster, characterized by a single neck, trunk, and normal limbs with craniofacial duplication and cleft in the palate was described in the current study.

Banana crop is affected by the pseudostem weevil (Odoiporus longicollis), which damages the pseudostem and causes the plant to collapse. This weevil causes yield losses of between 10% and 90%. The study was conducted on the evaluation of various management modules for pseudo stem weevil in banana (var. Red Banana) in farmer\’s fields with four treatments and seven replications in an RBD design. Treatments were imposed on 5th ,6th and 7th month after planting which includes spraying of cassava leaf based biopesticides (Nanma) in the pseudostem, filling the leaf axil with Heterorhabditis (EPN), spraying of Chlorpyriphos 20EC in the pseudo stem. Percentage of plants affected and extent of pseudostem borer infestation, individual bunch  weight were measured. In plants treated with the biopesticide based on cassava leaves (Nanma), crop damage was found to be 2.0%; in contrast, EPN showed 13.0% damage, Chloropriphos showed 15.2% damage, and untreated control plants showed 35.5% damage. The Weevil infestation was 2.4 % in cassava leaf based biopesticides (Nanma) treatment followed by 8.60% in EPN treatment and 14.60 per cent in Chloropyriphos treatment and 36.60 per cent in untreated control. The average increase in bunch weight was 26.16 percent for plants treated with the cassava leaf-based biopesticides (Nanma), 21.52 percent for EPN, and 18.60 percent for Chloropyriphos when compared to untreated control plants. The study revealed that the spraying of cassava leaf based biopesticides reduced the incidence of pseudostem weevil with higher yield.