The study of quality and shelf life in Papaya (Carica papaya L.).

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of supplementation of bypass fat one month before parturition and three months early lactation on milk production and reproductive performance of buffaloes. Thirty-two multiparous pregnant buffaloes (2–3 lactation) were selected in Dahod District. These buffaloes were divided in two groups on the basis of their stage of pregnancy (one month before parturition), milk production and fat % during previous lactation. Animals in T1 (n=16, control group) were fed on farm feeding schedule and those in T2 group were supplemented with bypass fat @ 100 g/h/d during prepartum and 20 g/kg of milk yield in addition to farm feeding schedule. Whole milk yield (kg/head/d) of buffaloes in T1 and T2 groups was 4.50±0.04 and 5.43±0.07 respectively, which, was significantly (P<0.05) higher in bypass fat group. Average milk constituent’s protein, calcium and phosphorus were 3.61±0.05 and 3.53±0.04, 0.16±0.00 and 0.17±0.00, and 0.08±0.00 and 0.09±0.00 in T1 and T2 respectively. The differences were statistically non-significant. However, the percentage of fat (5.84±0.04 and 6.77±0.09) was statistically (P<0.05) higher in treatment group. Yield (kg/head/d) of fat, 6% FCM, SCM and ECM in T1 and T2 groups were 0.26±0.00 and 0.37±0.00; 4.42±0.04 and 5.87±0.07; 6.23±0.08 and 7.86±0.12; 5.99±0.05 and 7.78±0.09 respectively. All the values were significantly (P<0.05) higher in bypass fat group. Daily feed cost in T1 and T2 were 92.98±0.64 and 101.66±0.45 respectively which was statistically (P<0.05) higher in T2 (bypass fat fed group). Similarly, average realizable receipt from sale of milk (Rs/head) in T1 and T2 groups was 165.88±1.39 and 231.12±1.46, respectively. Average daily profit increased per buffalo was 56.56 Rs.

The present study was formulated during the year 2016 in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, with a sample size of 120 respondents. Respondents were selected based on random sampling method. Results revealed that the major problems perceived by the beneficiaries were late payment of wages, no opportunity to get employment more than 100 days and non-provision of 100 days of work. Whereas, suggestions given by them to overcome the problems were timely payment of wages, payment of wages in cash and also in the form of grains and fulfilment of 100 days of employment guarantee. A sample of 30 people’s representatives and 40 officials involved in implementation of MGNREGS at various levels were selected randomly. Results revealed that the major problems perceived by the stakeholders were illiteracy of the people, non- availability of staff, lack of cooperation and conflicts between people, non-availability of funds in time, limited work activities under MGNREGS which may not available at village level so on.

The study was conducted with the aim to assess the knowledge level and knowledge gap of horticulture extension personnel in cultivation practices of selected fruit crops in Jammu region of J&K. Data was collected from 200 horticulture extension personnel (30 horticulture development officers and 170 horticulture technicians) working at gross root level in all ten districts of Jammu region. Four fresh fruit crops namely mango, citrus, pear and apple predominately representing all the three agro climatic zones were selected purposely for the present study. Over all knowledge score of the horticulture extension personnel was categories into three levels low, medium and high on the basis of Singh cub root method (1975). The findings revels that both horticulture development officers (HDOs) and Horticulture technicians in majority possess medium level of knowledge (52-66 score) and (15-20 score) respectively. The highest knowledge gap (58.19%) in manure and fertilizer followed by rejuvenation of old tree and plant protection in case of HDO where highest knowledge gap (62%) was in pesticide usage followed by irrigation and training /pruning in case of horticulture technicians were found. The significant difference among the mean knowledge score of the horticulture technicians falling under sub-tropical zone and temperate zone were also found in the present study.

The present study was conducted to determine the effect of boron on soil properties and uptake of nutrients. Boron was applied through three different sources viz., borax applied as soil application; boron metalosate and boric acid supplied through foliar spray. The results revealed that application of boron significantly promoted the uptake and properties of soil. Soil pH, EC, OC, Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn) and Copper (Cu) were did not differed significantly due to application of different sources and levels of boron whereas application on boron on available nitrogen, available phosphorus, available potassium, available sulphur, exchangeable calcium and exchangeable magnesium content of soil after the harvest of tomato differed significantly .The highest uptake of nitrogen (177.32 kg ha-1), phosphorus (30.85 kg ha-1), potassium (134.09 kg ha-1), calcium (82.08 kg ha-1), magnesium (51.03 kg ha-1), sulphur (54.66 kg ha-1), iron (607.97 g ha-1), manganese (349.54 g ha-1), copper (89.57g ha-1), zinc(199.84 g ha-1) and boron (209.59 g ha-1) were recorded in in T10 treatment which consists of NPK+ FYM + 1.1 kg ha-1 B through borax as soil application + 0.05% B through boron metalosate as foliar application.

The present study was conducted to see the effect of exogenous melatonin on blood biochemical parameters on Black Bengal goat in the Department of Veterinary Physiology, Ranchi Veterinary college, Birsa Agricultural University, Kanke, Ranchi, Jharkhand. The experimental animals healthy, non-pregnant, non-lactating Black Bengal does (n=21), having average body weight (16.39 kg) and age between (16-24 months), reared under uniform managemental husbandry practices were selected from Instructional Farm of Small Ruminants (I.F.S.R.) for the present experiment during non-breeding season. Selected does were isolated from bucks at least one month prior to start of the experiment. The mean of total serum protein (g/dl) on 0 day was 6.37 ± 0.21, 6.50 ± 0.16 and 6.56 ± 0.14 (g/dl) in group I to III respectively. The mean of Serum glucose (mg/dl) of group I, II and III on 0 day was 61.2 ± 2.52, 56.81± 1.96 and 54.92 ± 1.44 respectively. Serum glucose was significantly (p<0.05) lower in group II and III in comparison to I from 20 to 40 day. the mean of serum inorganic phosphorus (mg/dl) on 0 day was 4.5 ± 0.25, 4.77 ± 0.23 and 4.46 ± 0.48 (mg/dl) in group I, II and III respectively. Total serum inorganic phosphorus was significantly (p<0.05) higher in group II and III in comparison to group I from day 20 to 40 in comparison to 0 day. The mean of serum calcium (mg/dl) of group I,II and III on 0 day was 9.54 ± 0.20, 8.91 ± 0.22 and 8.85 ± 0.12 respectively. On 0 day serum calcium was significantly (p<0.05) higher in group I in comparison to group II and III. The mean of serum magnesium (mEq/l) on 0 day was 0.95 ± 0.03, 1.02 ± 0.02 and 0.97 ± 0.03 (mEq/l) in group I, II and III respectively. Serum magnesium was significantly (p<0.05) higher in group II and III in comparison to group I at 20 days to the end of experiment. Majority of the biochemical constituent increased in melatonin treated goats except glucose.

The diversity of various accessions of Euryale ferox, an elite aquatic cash crop, collected from different locations of Assam (India) was assessed using 28 morphological descriptors. Phenotypic observation as well as morphological variables exhibited a significant variation among the collected accessions. Principal component analysis was performed for the morphological variables. The total numbers of 16 quantitative variables were grouped into 4 factors viz. F1, F2, F3 and F4. The percentage of variance was 57.710%, 23.891%, 11.138% and 7.262% respectively for these four factors. The results identified the variables into discrete categories of closely related and not-so closely related traits. Leaf and rhizome dimension accounted for the highest variability, while fruit, flower and seed dimensions were the second highest variance factor. A growth pattern study was performed to explore the process of germination and flowering. The results from the present study indicated morphological diversity among Euryale ferox accessions found in Assam, India.

Standard karyotype was prepared for saffron to serve as a reference for the community and to understand the spectrum of chromosomal features. Root tips used for karyotyping studies were obtained from corms collected from different saffron regions of Kashmir. The standard karyotype was prepared using 0.2% colchicine and the parameters characteristics of the chromosomes including long length and short length, total length (TL), and total arm ratio were calculated and chromosome types were determined. The number of chromosomes in somatic cells was 24 (2n=3x=24).On the basis of overall length and centromeric position, the somatic chromosomes could be assembled in seven triplets, one pair, and one single chromosome. Among the triplets, three consisted of metacentric(m), two of submetacentric (sm), and two of sub-telocentric chromosomes(st). The chromosome pair was submetacentric(sm), and the single chromosome was metacentric(m). The total length of chromosomes on an average from 30 metaphase plates (10 plates/subpopulation) of triploid set 2n=3x=24 in Kashmir saffron was observed to be 160.56µm with an average chromosome length of 6.69 µm. The arm ratio of total karyotype was observed to be 2.10. Although this karyotype configuration seems to support autoploidy, it does not allow to definitely exclude alloploidy due to the presence of univalents and bivalents.

The Madhya Pradesh with 11 agroclimatic zones having diversity in soil composition and climatic conditions are most suitable for cultivation and growth of medicinal and aromatic plants. Madhya Pradesh had an area of 18364 hectare with production 110184 ton under medicinal and aromatic crops during the year 2003, which increased to 65,617 ha area with production of 4,14,043 ton during 2014-15. The state is natural habitat for over 50 percent of the herbs used in pharmaceutical industry. The collection and conservation is being done by primary co-operative societies. The increasing demands for herbal medicines have renewed interest of the multinational pharmaceutical in bio- prospecting. This indicates that production, consumption and trade (domestic and international) in MAP based products are going to grow at a significant rate.

Cotton also cultivated in parts of dry saline rainfed and irrigated areas. It is relatively salt tolerant. However, response of four cotton species (Gossypium hirsutum, G.arboreum, G. herbaceum and G. barbadense) and their cultivars varies with different concentrations of sodium chloride (NaCl) and other salts. The different salts (NaCl, NaHCO3, MgSO4 and CaCl2) present in salinity areas were also causes salt injury. Salt stress at root zone negatively affects the normal cotton growth, nutrient uptake and physiology. The reduced leaf area expansion, osmotic potential, leaf water potential and higher osmotic stress, ionic stress affects the photosynthetic rate (Pn) along with specific ion toxicity. Salinity impaired the cotton growth, nutrient imbalance and seed cotton yield as well as fibre quality under saline conditions. Under salinity behavioral pattern was not same at all stages (Seed germination, seedling emergence, vegetative growth, squaring, flowering, boll initiation and development) of cotton. The present review examines current scenario and potential paradoxes of impact salt stress and adaptations by cotton at morphological, physiological and biochemical parameters.

Field experiments were carried out at Research Farm of A. S. (P.G.) College, Lakhaoti, Bulandshahar (U.P.) during rabi season of 2005-06 and 2006-07 with objective to study the effect of organic and inorganic fertilization on growth, seed yield and oil quality of Indian mustard in Indo-Gangetic plains of Uttar Pradesh, India. The recommended fertilizers (120:40:20:40::N:P2O5:K2O:S kgha-1) combined with FYM@10 t ha-1 + Zinc @ 25kg ZnSO4 + seed treatment with Azotobacter gave significantly higher mean plant height, total dry matter accumulation, leaf area, seed and stover yield. The mean seed yield of mustard was increased by 41.2% when recommended fertilizers were applied along with FYM@10 t ha-1, Zinc @ 25kg ZnSO4 and seed treatment with Azotobacter over alone application of recommended fertilizers. Similarly, the results revealed that additional application of either FYM@ 10 t ha-1 or Zn @ 25kgZnSO4 ha-1 or seed treatment with Azotobacter enhanced the mean mustard yield by 12.0, 11.5 and 13.0%, respectively. The higher fertility levels increased the protein content but reduced the glucosinolate content in the seed. The oil content decreased at higher inorganic fertility levels but application of FYM and Azotobacter improved the oil content.

The present study was conducted in a watershed located in Raichur district of Karnataka state. The objective of the study was estimation of geomorphological characteristics of the watershed. All three aspects of watershed characteristic viz., Linear, Spatial and Relief aspects were determined. The watershed had an area of 289.39 ha. It was classified as micro watershed on the basis of size. Some important geomorphological characteristics that were determined are shape index, form factor, circularity ratio, elongation ratio. The values are 1.78, 0.55, 0.94, 0.84 respectively. The slope of the watershed was found to be 0.45%. Time of concentration (Tc) of the watershed was observed as 59.63 min. The length ratios (RL) for two I order streams were 0.52 and 0.25 respectively. Drainage density (Dd) of the watershed was found to be 0.00079 m/m2. Length of overland flow (Lg) was determined as 632.91 m. Constant of channel maintenance (C) was 1265.82 m. Relief ratio (Rh) of the watershed was found to be 4.44×10-3. Relative relief (Rhp) was 0.15%. Ruggedness number was found to be 0.0079. Two I order streams and an II order stream were identified. Two checkdams were constructed across the I order streams. The storage volumes of both the check dams were determined as 48.51 m3 and 286.77 m3 respectively. The study has helped to assess the runoff potential of the watershed.

In vitro studies were carried out to investigate the effect of using dried distillers grains with solubles (cereal milling by-product) as a substitute for soybean meal (SBM) in the diet of buffaloes. SBM comprising 6% of the whole diet (total mixed ration; TMR) was substituted by rice dried distillers’ grains with solubles (RDDGS) at five levels (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) on N basis. In vitro dry matter disappearance (IVDMD), organic matter disappearance (IVOMD), net gas production (NGP), methane production and fermentation efficiency of TMRs was studied. RDDGS substitution at 25, 50 and 75% significantly increased (P<0.05) IVOMD and IVDMD. The NH3-N decreased (P<0.05) with the increasing level of RDDGS in the TMRs. The relative proportion (%) of acetate declined (P<0.05) and that of propionate increased (P<0.05) with the increasing level of RDDGS in the TMRs and subsequently the A: P ratio declined (P<0.05) with RDDGS inclusion beyond 25% level replacing SBM in the TMR. No significant effect of RDDGS inclusion was observed on methane production. The fermentation efficiency increased (P<0.05) with the increasing level of RDDGS in TMRs. In conclusion, RDDGS could replace up to 75% of the soybean meal in the TMR of buffaloes which is equivalent to 4.5% of the whole dietary DM.

The twenty genotypes (JAM-1 to 20) of the bael selected from different locations of Kymore plateau and Satpura hill region of MP from the existing plant population was evaluated for morphological variability in plants to categorize the genotypes in various groups. The present investigation showed considerable variations among the genotypes, which are valuable for one or other traits in crop improvement programme and may be include for further utilization and multiplication of quality planting material.

Studies were conducted to standardize the agronomic practices for the production of quality roses under naturally ventilated polyhouse in the mid hills of Himachal Pradesh. Thirteen combinations of agro-techniques viz., growing media combinations (Soil: FYM: Sand/Cocopeat/Sawdust,); soil moisture regimes (20 kPa and 40 kPa); nutrient sources (Soluble/Straight/biofertilizers), growth regulators (GA3 and BAP) and plant architecture management ( pruning and bending ) were tested and replicated thrice. Result of the study revealed that growing media containing Soil: FYM: Sawdust (2:1:1 v/v) fertilized with water soluble fertilizer (150 ppm N and 200 ppm K), spraying of polyfeed (2g/l) at monthly interval from September-January and plant bending 6 weeks after planting was found to be the best treatment to enhance the floral quality parameters under protected conditions.

India is one of the largest producers of oilseeds in the world and occupies an important position in the Indian economy. Groundnut and cotton are cultivated in India in all seasons. The study was carried out in Rajkot district of Gujarat state during the year 2018. Simple random sampling was used to select the samples for the study. The data were collected by personal interview method, analyzed through various appropriate statistical tools. Cost of production of kharif groundnut was estimated by using the cost of cultivation. Seed replacement rate formula was used for seed replacement rate of groundnut. Sample size was of 120 farmers and 30 dealers from Rajkot district. From the study, it was concluded that cost of cultivation of cotton is comparatively higher than cost of cultivation of groundnut. The seed replacement rate is highest in small land holding farmers followed by medium land holding farmers.

The investigation entitled “Effect of fruit tree based cropping systems on fertility status of salt affected soil” was conducted at Horticulture Farm, in the Department of Horticulture, Narendra Deva university of Agriculture &Technology, Kumarganj, Fizabad, UP during 2010-11. All the tree cropping systems viz. Aonla + Ber, Aonla + Guava, Ber + Guava + Phalsa, Aonla + Karonda and Aonla + Subabool improved the chemical properties of soil as compared to control (barren site). Decrease in pH, ECe, ESP and increase in CEC indicated considerable improvement in chemical properties of soil. Improvement was noticed more in inside canopy as compared to open side canopy of plants.

An in vitro study was conducted to know the optimum level of incorporation of green gram straw and replacement of wheat straw by green gram straw in the total mixed ration (TMR) for cattle. The control TMR (G0) was formulated by mixing of concentrate mixture (45%) and wheat straw (55%) while in treatment TMRs wheat straw was replaced by green gram straw @ 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% and 100% and designated as G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, G6, G7, G8, G9 and G10, respectively. The TMRs were iso-nitrogenous and the concentrate and roughage ratio kept at 45:55. The energy and protein requirements of cattle were met as per ICAR (1998) standards. The statistical analysis revealed significant (P<0.05) decrease in IVDMD of G0 (control) group as compared to treatment groups and there was significant (P<0.05) decrease in IVOMD of G0 (control), G1, G2 and G10 treatment group as compared to G3, G4, G5, G6, G7, G8 and G9 groups. There was significant (P<0.05) decrease in IVTGP of G0 (control) and G1, G8, G9 and G10 treatment group as compared to G2, G3, G4, G5, G6 and G7 groups.

Isolation of high quality viral RNA from a banana plant is quite difficult, due to the presence of high amount of polysaccharides and phenolic compounds in the plant. These compounds not only reduce the yield of RNA but also make it unsuitable for the molecular studies, like cDNA library construction, molecular analysis and RNAseq. In the present study we describe a simple RNA isolation procedure based on Rodriguez-Garcia protocol to isolate high-quality viral RNA from banana plant infected with Banana Bract Mosaic Virus (BBrMV). This modified protocol effectively removes phenols and polysaccharides and gives a yield of 100-200 μg high-quality total RNA per gram of fresh tissue. PCR product of partial BBrMV replicase and movement protein gene from bract sample was sequenced generating 386 nt and 339 nt sequences respectively which were submitted to NCBI database. These sequences showed similarity to replicase (96 %) and movement protein gene (97 %) to that of Trichy isolate, with 100 percent query cover in BLAST result. Isolated RNA showed purity suitable for northern analysis, RT-PCR and cDNA library construction.

The present investigation was conducted to study the effects of different housing systems on growth performance, feed consumption, morbidity and mortality of broiler rabbits in semi arid region of North Gujarat. Total 24 weaned rabbits (28 days age) were randomly divided in two housing treatments, T1 (Cage housing) and T2 (Deep litter housing system). The duration of experiment was 8 weeks. Weekly observations were recorded for weight gain. The data generated were analysed for significant differences. The mean FCR was numerically higher in T2 (3.9±0.60) than the T1 (3.8±0.830). The results indicated that FCR were at par in the cage and deep litter system of housing. The mean serum glucose (mg/dl) was higher in T2 (150.8 ± 8.879) as compared to T1 (138.0 ± 7.920), whereas the mean serum triglyceride (mg/dl) was higher in T1 (93.87 ± 16.41) than T2 (73.35 ± 13.14). The results indicated that there was no significant variation in blood biochemical parameters of rabbit in the cage and deep litter system of housing. No any coccidial oocysts were found in the any of the group.

The present experiment was conducted to study the impact of heat stress on feed intake, nutrient utilization and growth performance in broiler chicken and its amelioration through supplementation of ascorbic acid (AA). One hundred and sixty (160) day old broiler chicks were randomly assigned into four homogenous groups. All the chicks were fed on standard formulated diet. The first control group (CON) was reared at room temperature, whereas other three groups were subjected to heat stress and reared without any supplementation (HS) or supplemented with synthetic (HS-SA) and natural (HS-NA) source of ascorbic acid. Daily feed intake and body weight was recorded to assess growth performance, while a metabolism trial was carried out to arrive at nutrient utilization efficiency. Heat stress was found to be pessimistic for feed and water intake and reduced the growth rate in broiler chicken, however AA supplementation from either source helped to minimize such effects. Again, the AA was found to be effective in mitigating the depressed nutrient utilization efficiency of heat stressed chicken. The present study suggested that the discouraging effect of heat stress on feed intake, nutrient utilization and growth performances of broiler chicken can be well managed through supplementation of AA from synthetic or natural sources.

An investigation conducted on calcareous sandy loam soil at Anand (Gujarat) during rabi season of 2016-17 to study the effect of organic nutrient management in fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum L.). Among the different nutrient management practices, significantly higher plant growth parameters were reported under treatment T3 (Vermicompost @ 1.0 t ha-1) and similarly, application of Vermicompost @ 1.0 t ha-1 (T3) secured highest grain yield (2245 kg ha-1) however, it remained at par with treatment T7 (2190 kg ha-1) and T9 (2053 kg ha-1). Straw yield was significantly highest in T3 (4572 kg ha-1) compared to the lowest straw producing treatment T1 (3246 kg ha-1).

The study was conducted at Bassi and Gamwaramgarh Blocks in Jaipur district of Rajasthan with an objective of studying socio-economic profile and achievement of mustard growers. The data indicated that out of total respondents, 67.0% of respondents belonged to middle age group, the majority (22.5%) of the respondents were having primary school level of education, 40.5% belonged to Scheduled tribes. Majority of the respondents (38.0%) were having experience of 21 to 30 years in mustard cultivation. The data also revealed that 51.5% respondents belonged to small farm size, 68.0% of respondents were having annual income between 69744 to 154064 rupees. The achievement motivation of majority (42.0%) of the respondents was found to be of medium level followed by high level (39.5%) and low level (18.5%).

Citrus is considered as most important fruit crops, with their wholesome nature, multifold nutritional and medicinal values have made them so important. Its attractive appearance, penetrating aroma of peel and excellent taste, hold a remarkable position among all sub-tropical fruit crops, value wise it on a better position.

Large cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.), a member of the family, Zingiberaceae is the main cash crop cultivated in the sub-Himalayan state of Sikkim and Darjeeling district of West Bengal. It is also cultivated in parts of Uttarakhand and in some other North Eastern Hill states like Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya and Assam. The large cardamom plant is a perennial herb with subterranean rhizomes with leafy shoots. Propagation of large cardamom is mainly done through seeds and suckers in field level. However, tissue culture techniques also used for propagation now a days. The propagation through seeds enables production of large number of seedlings. On the other hand, producing planting material through suckers ensures true to the type/parents with a high productivity if they are collected from high yielding, disease free plants. This techniques produce sucker ready for field planting in next season itself. The suckers collected from high yielding disease-free, elite plantations having one mature tiller with one or two immature tillers or vegetative buds is used as planting units. This being an economically important cash crop, there is a need to increase the area under its cultivation for increasing the productivity of the crop in this region. The plantation establishment and management practices for large cardamom are presented in this paper.

Recent times the people were facing water scarcity issues enormously. In this context the study was undertaken with an objective, to encounter the water scarcity issues and adaptation measures among the farming community. The study was conducted in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. The total sample size of the study was 30, samples are drawn randomly. The data was collected by employing Focused group discussion and using well-structured interview schedule. The farmers faced highly both direct and indirect effects because of water scarcity. The effects are, insufficient water availability, yield loss, poor nut size and quality and low productivity. According to adoption strategies by crops, it could be inferred that, majority of the respondents had awareness and knowledge about drip irrigation methods, diversified agriculture and shifting their cropping pattern. With respect to management by water structure, in general majority of them had awareness and knowledge about all the water structures but in adoption case only some of the practices adopted in their field level. To overcome this issue central and state governments can, empower local groups with knowledge.

A study was conducted to assess the economic impact of weather forecast based agro advisories on transplanted and direct seeded rice during kharif season of 2017. Total 30 numbers of beneficiary farmers i.e. users of agro-advisory services (AAS) as well as 30 numbers of non-beneficiary farmers i.e. non-users of agro-advisory services (non AAS) were selected from three blocks of Malkangiri district of Odisha. Study revealed that cost of cultivation was found lower in the case of AAS farmers who have successfully adopted weather based ago-advisory for transplanted as well as direct seeded rice as compared to non AAS farmers. AAS farmers obtained 6.7% and 3.7% more production for transplanted and direct seeded rice respectively over non AAS farmers. Further, AAS farmers produced more yield with less expenditure. Percent gain in net return to the tune of 19.74% and 20.18% for transplanted and direct seeded rice, respectively by AAS farmers over non AAS farmers. Thus, the application of weather based agro advisories are useful tool for enhancing the productivity and income of rice farmers in study region.

Biodiesel can be produced from vegetable oils by transesterification process. The fatty acid composition of oils can be varied from oil crops to tree borne oilseeds. It is essential to find the optimal conditions for maximum methyl ester conversion for each biodiesel feedstock. This paper describes the biodiesel production and optimizes the process conditions for three non-edible oils viz, pongamia, jatropha, and neem oils. The optimal conditions for best yield of methyl ester from jatropha and neem oil were observed with a molar ratio of 1:6, catalyst amount of 0.3 M and reaction time of 2 h. The molar ratio of 1:7.5, catalyst amount of 0.3 M and a reaction time of 2 h were found to be optimal conditions for methyl ester production from pongamia oil. Under optimized conditions, the maximum methyl ester conversion was found as 99.70, 98.88 and 97.65 % for biodiesel production from jatropha, pongamia and neem oils respectively. The calorific value for this methyl ester was ranged from 38.11 to 39.81 MJ/kg. The kinematic viscosity of methyl ester from pongamia, jatropha and neem oils at 40ºC was found to be 1/7.5, 1/6.6 and 1/7.6th of the viscosity of raw oil respectively. The flash point, cloud point and pour point of these methyl esters were found to be within the permissible range of ASTM standards.

An experiment was conducted under field condition, with a variety Pusa Purple Long. Before transplanting, the seedlings were given bare root dip treatments (for 30 minutes) in four systemic chemicals viz.,Carbosulfan (Marshal 25 EC), Imedacloprid (Confidor 17.8 SL), Dimethoate (Rogor 30 EC) and Oxy-dematon-methyl (Metasystox 25 EC). Each chemical was having two different concentrations (500 and 1000 ppm). Each treatment was replicated four times. Bare root dip treatments of transplanted seedlings with dimethoate, carbosulfan and oxy-dematon-methyl @ 1000 ppm (0.1%) were found very effective in reducing the nematode populations in the rhizosphere and root system of the plants. However, in comparison to control all the chemicals tested were found considerably effective, against the nematode at both the concentrations.

An experiment was conducted under field condition, with the variety Pusa Purple Long. There were five transplanting times viz., 5th April, 20th April, 5th May, 20th May and 4th June of 2016.Reproduction factor (multiplication rate) of root-knot nematode (M. incognita) J2 and spiral nematode (H. dihystera) were found decreased and increased in early transplanted crops, (early April-late April), respectively and vice-versa in late transplanted crops (early May-early June). Minimum multiplication rate of M. incognita was recorded in early April transplanted crop (reproduction factor 1.3), while it was maximum (reproduction factor 9.5) in early May crop. Contrary to this H. dyhistera was found with highest multiplication rate (12.0) in early April crop, and minimum (7.2) in early May crop.

Flowering is a crucial component with the view for mango production. Four mango varieties were studied for the flowering behavior at Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow, and Uttar Pradesh. The data on Varietal response of Normal and Malformed cultivars at prebloom stage revealed that the flowers were more in malformed panicles. The blossom bud initiation and panicle length elongation study of Amrapali (Normal Vs. Malformed) showed a high number of flowers emergence in mid of march in normal and malformed panicles. Albeit, in malformed panicles, similar bursts of flower opening were recorded two more times. Similarly, a study of pattern on panicle length revealed that the growth of normal panicles was very fast initially and attained up to 16 cm length. During the corresponding time, panicle development (increase in length) in malformed samples was slow. The total number of flowers was more in malformed panicles in comparison to normal. Likewise, significantly large variations were recorded in number of male: hermaphrodite flowers, 3.5:1 in normal while in malformation ratio was 14:1. The results concluded that in a subtropical region, flowering pattern of mango cultivars response differently. Due to discontinuous bursts of flower opening, sex ratio differences were high in malformed panicle.

Guava (Psidium guajava L.) trees of cv. L-49 were planted at four different spacing’s viz. 6.0mx6.0m; 4.5mx4.5m; 3.0mx3.0m and 1.5m x1.5m at research farm of Division of Fruit Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture , Udheywalla, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, in the year 2012.Data on stem height (m), stem girth (m), canopy spread (m) and yield/tree (kg) and yield/Ha (Qtls.) was recorded. After three years of growth the maximum tree height (3.69m) was recorded in closest spacing (1.5m X 1.5m) and it decreased with increase in plant spacing. Minimum tree height (2.91m) was recorded in widest spacing (6.0m X 6.0m). Maximum stem girth (0.42 m) was recorded in plants planted at a distance of 6.0m X 6.0m while minimum stem girth (0.30 m) was recorded with spacing of 1.5m X 1.5m. Maximum canopy spread (NS/EW) (3.18/3.11m) was recorded in 6.0mX6.0m spacing and minimum spread (NSXEW) (2.41/2.35) was recorded in the spacing of 1.5mX1.5m. After three years of growth, maximum yield/ tree (15.21 kg) was recorded under the spacing of 6.0mX 6.0m and minimum yield/tree was recorded under 1.5mx1.5m, whereas, yield/ha (129.33 q) was recorded in spacing of 1.5m X 1.5m followed by spacing of 3m X 3m (111.99q).

The present study was focused on the marketing of fresh and stored potato in Aravalli district of Gujarat, India. From the district, two talukas viz., Bayad and Modasa were purposely selected having the highest area and production. From each taluka, three villages were selected. In all 100 farmers, 20 wholesalers, 25 semi wholesalers and 40 retailers were surveyed for the study. Major marketing channels identified in the study for fresh potato was Farmer-Wholesaler-Semi Wholesaler-Retailer-Consumer and for the stored potato, it was Farmer-Cold storage-Wholesaler- Retailer-Consumer. It was observed that the price spread of stored potato marketing channel was high due to higher marketing cost of storage. The farmers were getting good prices of their produce during the peak season and lower prices in the off season resulting the bumper availability of potato from the cold stores.

The detailed exploration on deposition pattern of hard dental structures for first deciduous incisor tooth was carried out on 30 goat fetuses at weekly interval from 11 week to 21 weeks (Full term). From 12th week onwards, all deciduous incisors were radiographically showing calcification, were decalcified, processed for paraffin sectioning and stained by the Routine Harri’s Heamatoxylin and Eosin and the Masson’s Trichrome stain. At 11th week goat fetus, deposition of dentin, the dentinogenesis, and at 13th week deposition of enamel, the amelogenesis was started for first deciduous incisor tooth. At 20th week-crown of Di1 was found completely formed and the dentin formation of root begun. The cementoblasts differentiation and the cementogenesis could not be detected till the full term goat fetus.

The present study was conducted in Anand district of Gujarat state. Sample of 120 respondents were selected by proportionate random sampling technique for the study purpose. Response of green gram growers was taken by personal interview schedule. The purpose of this study was to find out the constraints faced by green gram growers in adoption of recommended green gram production technology and their suggestions to overcome these constraints. The major constraints with regards to green gram production technology were unavailability of healthy seeds, high cost of seeds, high cost of pesticides, high cost of fertilizers, high wages of labours and do not get remunerative price of green gram. The important suggestion endorsed by green gram growers were seeds quality should be improved, timely supply of seeds to farmers, cost of seeds should be minimized, and awareness about improved green gram production technology and trainings about green gram production technology should be organized.

The present investigation on effect of pre-treatments and drying methods on drying characteristics of Ginger was carried out at P.G. Laboratory, College of Horticulture, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University (SKLTSHU), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, during 2016-17. The design adopted in the study was Factorial Completely Randomized Design (FCRD) with pre-treatments, potassium meta bisulphate (KMS) 0.2 % (w/v), ascorbic acid 0.1 % (w/v), citric acid 1.5 g/l and control. Different drying methods namely, microwave oven drying, solar cabinet drying, hot air oven drying and open sun drying and their combination with pre- treatments were used in the study. The drying methods, pre-treatments and their combinations were found to have significant effect on drying characteristics of Ginger slices. Among drying methods, microwave oven and hot air oven drying methods recorded the final moisture content of 9.61 and 9.68 %, respectively. Solar cabinet and open sun drying had the final moisture content of 10.25 and 10.79 %, respectively. Hot air oven drying method exhibited maximum drying ratio of 9.48. The maximum dry recovery percentage was recorded in respect of microwave drying method. Among pre-treatments, KMS (0.2 %) had the maximum moisture loss of the dried Ginger slices with drying ratio of 9.22 and dry recovery percentage of 1.039 %. Among various treatment combinations the minimum moisture content (9.44 %) and maximum recovery percentage (11.01 %) was recorded with pre-treatment KMS (0.2 %) under microwave drying. The maximum drying ratio was noted with pre- treatment KMS under hot air oven drying method. The drying rate was observed at different time intervals and it was found to be faster at 0.5 and 1 hr intervals as the weight loss of Ginger slices during these intervals was high. As time increased the drying rate showed declining trend. At 0.5 hr the drying rate was faster in microwave and hot air oven drying, whereas in solar cabinet and open sun drying, it was found to be slow. Among the pre-treatments, faster drying rate was observed with KMS (0.2 %). From the results it is concluded that during the process of drying, the Ginger slices did not show constant rate of drying and complete drying took place only in the falling rate period. Further, the treatment combination of potassium meta bisulphate (KMS) under microwave oven drying was found to be the best for most of the drying characteristics of Ginger.

The present study was conducted “ascertain the Attitude of trainees and non trainees towards activities of Krishi Vigyan Kendra of Faizabad District in Uttar Pradesh” which was Masaudha and Sohawal block selected purposively. Ex-post-facto research design was used for the present research. There are 50.00 percent trainees had medium level attitude 43.00 percent trainees had low attitude status whereas 67.00 percent non-trainees had medium level and 30.00 percent non-trainees had high level of attitude towards activities of Krishi Vigyan Kendra.

The present study was confined to four districts viz. Junagadh, Gir Somnath, Porbandar and Amreli. The sample size was of 80 women vegetables vendors comprised of 20 from each district. The primary data were collected through the well prepared questionnaires. The collected data was analysed using performance index based on minimum wage rate and mean income earned. The study reveals that, women vegetable vendors are able to earn more than prevailing minimum wages in Gujarat for unskilled labours. Majority of respondents performed moderately and no women shown poor performance. Majority of the respondents were facing the problems of starting of purchase early in the morning, no social support and time consuming in their order.

The field experiment was undertaken to investigate the influence of organic manures and fertilizers on soil microbial soil microbial biomass-C, N and P. The research was conducted at ZARS, GKVK, Bangalore. There were 10 treatments and three replications in an RCBD design. The treatment contains different levels of organic manures like 5t, 10t, 12.5t, 15t, 17.5t and 20t fertilizers like 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. Soil microbial biomass C, N and P were analysed in different treatments and these were found to be significantly higher in the treatment with application of 20t of FYM ha-1 compared to recommended NPK alone.

For achieving higher water use efficiencies, it is desirable to use each drop of water meticulously. Therefore, precise water management is need of present day. Standard procedure for determination of evapotranspiration of crops has been suggested by FAO 56 publication. Accordingly, irrigation water must be managed. This procedure involves the product of crop coefficients and reference evapotranspiration. These crop coefficients are suggested for standard agronomical conditions. But these may vary according to varying conditions and hence correction factor must be applied. Many research workers have found similarity between the pattern of crop coefficients and multispectral vegetation indices. Therefore, this research work was carried out regarding remote sensing approach for getting quick and accurate estimates of crop coefficients of rabi sorghum in rabi sorghum growing five districts of Maharashtra. Multidate AWiFS satellite images of the crop growing season were used for extracting the commonly used vegetation indices viz. RVI, NDVI, TNDVI, SAVI and MSAVI2. Ground truth work was also carried out. Profiles of all the five vegetation indices of rabi sorghum were studied in detail and compared with profiles of crop coefficients of rabi sorghum recommended by MPKV Rahuri. The linear regression was performed between the values of vegetation indices and related crop coefficients. It was found that the vegetation index MSAVI2 have shown comparatively good relationship with crop coefficient of rabi sorghum. It is concluded that multispectral vegetation index MSAVI2 can be used as surrogate of crop coefficient of rabi sorghum.