Journal of Experimental Agriculture International

Impact of Different Organic Farming Packages on Growth and Yield Attributes of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

2026-05-28T07:04:54+00:00

Wheat is a major staple crop essential for global food security. Integrated use of organic and inorganic fertilizers improves soil health and increases wheat productivity sustainably. A field experiment was carried out at Agronomy Research Farm of Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar (Kumarganj), Faizabad (U.P.) during Rabi season of 2016-17 to study the response of Organic farming packages on growth, yield and quality of wheat. The experiment consisting of 9 treatments viz, T₁ (0% Control), T₂ (50% RDF), T₃ (100% RDF), T₄ (50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost), T₅ (50% RDF + 50% FYM), T₆(50% RDF+25% poultry manure) T₇(75% RDF+ 25% Vermicompost), T₈(75% RDF+ 25% FYM), T₉(75% RDF + 25% poultry manure). The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design (R.B.D.) with three replications on silt loam soil with low in organic carbon (0.34%), nitrogen (161.43kg ha^-1) and medium in phosphorus (14.71kg ha^-1) and potassium (240.33kg ha^-1). The growth characters like plant height, number of tillers, dry matter accumulation, leaf area index were significantly higher with the application of 75 % recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) through inorganic sources + 25% N through poultry manure (T₉) being at par with T₈, T₇, T₆, T₄, and T₃.The yield components like number of effective tillers, length of spike, number of grains spike^-1 were maximum with the application of 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) through inorganic sources + 25% N through poultry manure (T₉) being at par with T₈, T₇, T₆, T₄, and T₃ _.Grain yield (kg ha^-1) and straw yield (kg ha^-1) were maximum with the application of 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) through inorganic sources + 25% N through poultry manure (T₉) being at par with T₈, T₇, T₆, T₄ and T₃. Harvest index and 1000 grain weight (g) were not influenced significantly due to nutrient management practices. Thus, it may be concluded that Organic farming practice of 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) clubbed with 25% poultry manure proved as the most suitable practice to get more yield and benefit.

Agroclimatic Zoning to Optimize Crop Suitability under Soil, Water and Terrain Constraints in Tropical Conditions of Brazil

2026-05-28T10:56:08+00:00

Agroclimatic zoning is widely used to support crop planning in tropical environments, yet the relative importance of climate, soil and terrain in determining agricultural suitability remains poorly quantified at local scales. It supports the formulation of territorial planning policies for different crops at the state and municipal levels. The objective of this work was to evaluate crop suitability across major production systems using an integrated agroclimatic zoning in northeastern Brazil. Climate indicators, including the Water Requirement Satisfaction Index (WRSI), were derived from long-term datasets, while soil and terrain variables were assessed through field surveys and geospatial analysis. Despite relatively stable climatic conditions, crop suitability is primarily constrained by soil physical limitations, water deficit and slope. Only 42.06% of the evaluated area was classified as suitable for agricultural use, with strong variation among crop groups. Perennial crops and pasture systems exhibited greater adaptability, whereas annual crops and sugarcane were more restricted due to higher sensitivity to water deficit and terrain limitations. Agroclimatic zoning maps related to annual crops, permanent crops, sugarcane, planted pasture, and forestry are presented. Given that only 42.06% of the municipal territory is classified as suitable for agricultural use, the strategic selection of crops based on this zoning becomes a valuable tool for mitigating agricultural production risks and minimizing environmental impacts. The findings showed that soil and topography can override climatic suitability in subhumid tropical systems, emphasizing the need to integrate conservation-oriented management practices to enhance water retention and reduce erosion risks. The proposed framework supports crop selection, land-use planning and risk management in water-limited tropical environments.

Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Cuttings and Air Layering of Indian Olive (Elaeocarpus floribundus Blume)

2026-05-28T12:51:15+00:00

Indian Olive (Elaeocarpus floribundus Blume) is locally known as jalpai, a potential minor fruit crop in north-eastern parts of India. Because of the recalcitrant nature of the seed, a short period of seed viability and a hard seed coat, the present investigation was conducted to examine the rooting response of cuttings and air-layered branches of E. floribundus towards different types and doses of root-promoting plant growth regulators in combination with an auxin synergist. The cutting experiment was conducted during three planting periods, viz., mid-March, mid-July and mid-November, in a Completely Randomised Design (CRD) comprising nine treatments with three replications. Air-layering was carried out, comprising seven treatments, including a control (untreated) with three replications. Cuttings were treated with Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and Naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) at 1000, 2000, 4000, and 6000 ppm, where air layerings were treated with IBA and NAA solutions of 500, 1000 and 2000 ppm with p-hydroxybenzoic acid (phb) of 2000 ppm as an auxin synergist. Both the varying concentrations of IBA and NAA failed to induce growth and sprouting in the cuttings. Air layerings treated with NAA 1000 ppm+2000ppm phb and IBA 500 ppm +2000ppm phb recorded the highest 100 and 98.33% callusing per cent, respectively. Rooting response was found to be maximum 93.33 and 91.67% in IBA 500 ppm+2000 ppm phb and NAA 1000 ppm+2000 ppm phb, respectively, while minimum (60%) was recorded in the control. The present study indicates that air-layering constitutes a viable, efficient, and economically feasible method for the vegetative propagation of Elaeocarpus floribundus, particularly in taxa that are recalcitrant to propagation through conventional cuttings. The technique is straightforward, cost-effective, and readily adoptable by farmers owing to its high success rate and low mortality. Consequently, it enables the rapid multiplication of high-quality planting material within a relatively short time frame.

Impact of Farm Machinery Rental Services on Productivity, Market Participation and Net Farm Income: Evidence from Paddy Farmers in Punjab, India

2026-05-28T16:21:44+00:00

Agriculture is vital to India’s economy and livelihoods but faces labour shortages, rising food demand, and climate challenges. Mechanisation has improved productivity, yet India still needs faster technological advancement to ensure future food security. This study estimates the effects of rental services of agricultural machinery on productivity, market participation, and farm income, utilising primary data collected from 320 non-basmati paddy growers in Punjab, India. This study captures mechanisation service adoption as a dichotomous decision and adoption intensity as a latent variable and employs a conditional mixed process (CMP) model to address selection bias issues. The results show that adopting mechanisation services significantly increases productivity, market participation, and farm income, and the larger impact is associated with the higher adoption intensity of mechanisation services. Our results also reveal that mechanisation service adoption is significantly determined by dependency ratio, farm size, and education level of the household head. It was also found that young farmers and large landholders were more likely to intensify the adoption of mechanisation services. Our findings highlight the importance of agricultural mechanisation services in improving productivity and market participation, which eventually increases farm income.

Performance of Agricultural and Vegetable Crops under Kadam (Anthocephalus kadamba) Based Agroforestry System

2026-05-29T10:17:02+00:00

Agroforestry integrates trees with crops to improve sustainability, resilience, and farm income while conserving resources, and Kadam-based systems in India enhance soil health and economic returns despite some yield trade-offs. A field experiment was conducted during 2020-21 to evaluate the effect of Kadam (Anthocephalus kadamba) on growth, physiology and yield performance of agricultural crops (wheat, barley and mustard) and vegetable crop (potato) under agroforestry system. Six-month-old kadam seedlings were transplanted at 7×3 m spacing, and intercrops including wheat (HD-2967), barley (BH-393), mustard (RH-30) and potato (Kufri bahar) were grown during Rabi season. Growth parameters of kadam showed substantial increase in height (0.41-2.88 m) and basal diameter (0.64-6.31 cm) from July,2020 to April,2021. Crop performance under kadam based agroforestry and sole cropping systems indicated largely non-significant differences in plant height, chlorophyll content, photosynthesis, transpiration, and stomatal conductance. Wheat yield was slightly reduced under kadam (4.31 t/ha) compared to control (4.97 t/ha), with a benefit-cost (B:C) ratio of 1.36 and 1.57, respectively. Barley and mustard also recorded marginal yield reductions under kadam based agroforestry system. Potato exhibited minor variations in growth traits, with tuber yield of 93.88 q/acre under kadam based agroforestry system compared to control (109.29 q/acre), corresponding to B:C ratios of 0.97 and 1.13. Overall, kadam based agroforestry demonstrated compatibility with intercrops, maintaining positive net returns despite modest yield reductions. Despite modest declines in crop yields, the system maintained positive economic returns, highlighting its compatibility with intercrops. The integration of kadam, a fast-growing timber species, with food crops demonstrates potential for sustainable land use, offering ecological stability and economic resilience in diversified farming systems.

Economic Optimization of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Cultivation through Canopy Management in a Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo) Based Agrisilviculture System of Central India

2026-05-30T05:32:58+00:00

Agrisilviculture systems that integrate multipurpose trees with agricultural crops offer smallholder farmers diversified income streams; however, optimal canopy management for economic returns requires empirical quantification. A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif season of 2014-15 in a 16-year-old Dalbergia sissoo DC. (Shisham) plantation at the research farm of Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya (JNKVV), Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (23 deg N, 79 deg E; 411.78 m a.m.s.l.), to determine the economic viability of turmeric (Curcuma longa L., var. Suroma) cultivation under four pruning intensities (P0 - no pruning, P1 - 25%, P2 - 50%, P3 - 75%) and three nutrient supply treatments (T1 - NPK fertilizer, T2 - organic manure, T3 - vermicompost), along with an open (no-tree) control. Economics were quantified as cost of cultivation, gross monetary return (GMR), net monetary return (NMR), and benefit:cost (B:C) ratio on a per-hectare basis. The maximum GMR (Rs. 2,96,047 ha-1) and NMR (Rs. 1,64,491 ha-1) were recorded under P1+T1 (25% pruning + NPK fertilizer), followed by P1+T2 (NMR: Rs. 1,55,533 ha-1). The mean B:C ratio was highest under P1 (2.14) and lowest under open condition (1.44). The integrated crop+tree system under P1 yielded approximately 2.7 times the NMR of open (crop-alone) condition, clearly demonstrating the economic superiority of managed agrisilviculture. A pruning intensity of 25% of D. sissoo canopy, combined with NPK fertilization, is recommended for economic optimization of turmeric cultivation in central India.

A Comparative Performance Evaluation of Standalone and Hybrid Forecasting Models for Cashew Nut Price Prediction in Andhra Pradesh, India

2026-05-30T08:58:24+00:00

Cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale L.) is an important plantation and export crop that plays a significant role in the livelihoods of farmers and the agricultural economy of Andhra Pradesh. Accurate price forecasting is essential for better market planning and informed decision-making in the cashew sector. The present study compared standalone and hybrid forecasting approaches for predicting cashew nut prices. Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) and Support Vector Regression (SVR) models were developed individually, while a hybrid ARIMA–SVR model was used to capture both linear and nonlinear movements in the price series. The performance of the models was assessed using Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE). Although the SVR model recorded lower error values, its residuals showed significant autocorrelation, suggesting that the model could not fully capture the underlying pattern of the series. Hence, the hybrid ARIMA–SVR model, which was the next best-performing model, was considered more suitable for forecasting cashew nut prices. Further diagnostic tests such as the Box–Pierce, BDS, and Diebold–Mariano tests also supported the adequacy and predictive superiority of the hybrid model. Forecasts for the period from January to June 2026 indicated a slight declining trend in cashew nut prices. Overall, the hybrid ARIMA–SVR model provided more reliable forecasts and can support better market-related decisions in Andhra Pradesh.

Evaluation of Rhizobial Strains for Improving Biological Nitrogen Fixation and Yield in Rabi-Summer Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

2026-05-30T09:03:46+00:00

Rhizobium inoculation has been widely reported to have a positive impact on various growth parameters and yield attributes in groundnut. Moreover, the combined application of Rhizobium inoculants with chemical fertilizers has shown synergistic effects in improving pod yield and other agronomic traits. A field experiment was conducted during the rabi–summer seasons of 2022–23, 2023–24, and 2024–25 at the Agricultural Research Station, Kadiri, with the objective of evaluating different rhizobial strains for their effectiveness in improving biological nitrogen fixation and enhancing the yield of rabi–summer groundnut. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications and eight treatments, each representing a different rhizobial strain. The study focused on assessing various yield attributes, including the number of pods per plant, 100-pod weight, 100-kernel weight, shelling percentage, and sound mature kernel percentage. The results revealed that these yield parameters were not significantly influenced by the application of different rhizobial strains, indicating that the strains had a limited direct effect on these specific yield components under the given conditions. However, significant differences were observed in terms of nodulation, overall pod yield, and economic returns. Among the tested treatments, Rhizo-7 (IGR-6) and Rhizo-5 (DGR-35) emerged as the most promising and effective strains. Among the treatments, Rhizo-7 (IGR-6) recorded the highest pod yield (2739 kg ha⁻¹) whereas, Rhizo-5 (DGR-35) recorded the higher halum yield (6518 kg ha⁻¹). Rhizo-1 (DGR-23) and Rhizo-3 (DGR-25) consistently exhibited the lowest values for several key parameters, often performing even below or on par with the uninoculated control. The study highlights the importance of selecting efficient rhizobial strains to optimize nitrogen fixation and improve productivity and profitability in groundnut cultivation under specific seasonal conditions.

Hybrid Statistical Models for Forecasting of Rice Production in Karnataka State, India

2026-06-01T10:47:21+00:00

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a vital staple crop underpinning food security and agricultural livelihoods in Karnataka and across India. The current study used both linear and nonlinear time series techniques to anticipate Rice production in Karnataka state from 1962–1963 to 2021–2022. First, the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model was used, and the best fit was chosen using diagnostic metrics like the Coefficient of Determination (R²), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE). The ARIMA (2,1,2) model was found to be the best suitable of the linear models. Advanced machine learning techniques like Time Delay Neural Network (TDNN), Nonlinear Support Vector Regression (NLSVR) and their hybrid combinations with ARIMA (ARIMA–TDNN and ARIMA–NLSVR) were used to identify potential nonlinear patterns in the data. The adoption of hybrid models was justified by the BDS test on ARIMA residuals, which verified the existence of nonlinearity. RMSE, MAE and MAPE were used to assess the model performance for the nonlinear and hybrid techniques. The most recent three years of data were used for testing, while 57 years of data were used for training in the adopted training and testing framework. In terms of forecast accuracy, the ARIMA (2,1,2)–TDNN (3–7–1) hybrid model outperformed the other models. Forecasts up to 2027–28 was also produced using the model, estimating that Karnataka would produce 4432.68 thousand tons of Rice. These findings imply that, in comparison to individual models, hybrid models that include linear and nonlinear features offer more accurate and consistent forecasts for agricultural production series.

Cereal Production and Undernourishment: A Global Correlation Analysis

2026-06-01T13:40:11+00:00

Background: Food security remains a major global challenge despite advances in agricultural productivity, with cereals like rice, wheat, and maize being central to global diets. While higher cereal yields can improve food availability, undernourishment persists due to issues like unequal distribution, poverty, and limited access to food.

Aims: To examine the relationship between cereal production and undernourishment at the global level during the period 2000–2022 and to assess whether higher agricultural productivity contributes to improved food security and reduced hunger.

Study Design: The study adopted a quantitative analytical research design using secondary data.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted using global-level data collected from international food and agricultural databases covering the period from 2000 to 2022.

Methodology: Secondary data on cereal yield (kg/ha) and prevalence of undernourishment (% of population) were collected from international databases. Cereal yield was considered as an indicator of agricultural productivity and food availability, while undernourishment represented nutritional insecurity. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarise trends and variations in the data. Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine the direction and strength of the relationship between cereal production and undernourishment. In addition, a simple Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression model was applied to evaluate the effect of cereal yield on undernourishment levels across countries during the study period.

Results: The findings revealed a negative association between cereal yield and undernourishment from 2000–2022. Countries with higher cereal productivity generally experienced lower levels of hunger and nutritional insecurity. Pearson correlation analysis indicated an inverse relationship between the variables, suggesting that improvements in cereal production are associated with reductions in undernourishment. OLS regression results further confirmed that increases in cereal yield contributed significantly to lowering undernourishment levels. However, differences among countries indicated that factors such as food accessibility, income levels, infrastructure, and distribution systems also influence nutrition outcomes.

Conclusion: The study concludes that increasing cereal productivity plays an important role in improving food security and reducing global hunger. The findings emphasise the need for sustainable agricultural development, efficient food systems, and equitable access to food resources to achieve long-term nutrition security.

Growth Performance, Meat Quality, Lipid Profile and Residue Status of Broiler Chickens Supplemented with Polyalthia longifolia Ethanolic Leaf Extract Powder

2026-06-01T13:44:31+00:00

Background: The withdrawal of antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) in poultry production has intensified the search for safe, natural alternatives that support both productivity and meat safety.

Aim: This study evaluated the efficacy of Polyalthia longifolia Ethanolic Leaf Extract Powder (PlELEP) as a phytogenic substitute for ciprofloxacin in broiler chickens, with emphasis on growth performance, carcass traits, and comprehensive meat quality parameters.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria, between January and April, 2020.

Materials and Methods: A total of 210 one-day-old Arbor Acres broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five treatments (n = 42/treatment): negative control (no additive), positive control (10 mg/L ciprofloxacin in water), and three PlELEP-supplemented groups (1, 2, and 3 g/L in drinking water). The trial lasted 42 days, with PlELEP or ciprofloxacin administered intermittently during grower and finisher phases. At slaughter, breast meat was analysed for physicochemical properties, lipid profile, and residues of antioxidants and antibiotics.

Results: Dietary supplementation with 3 g/L PlELEP significantly improved average daily gain (43.64 g) and feed conversion ratio (1.99) compared to the negative control (42.92 g; FCR = 2.14; p < 0.05), matching the performance of the ciprofloxacin group. Dietary PlELEP supplementation did not alter carcass traits. PlELEP at 3 g/L also enhanced meat quality, yielded lower ultimate pH (5.83), higher water-holding capacity (73.96%), and reduced cooking loss (28.37%) relative to controls. Furthermore, breast meat from this group exhibited the most favourable lipid profile, lowest total cholesterol (83.23 mg/dL) and triglycerides (110.55 mg/dL), highest HDL (52.14 mg/dL), and elevated endogenous phenolic (1.24 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (1.96 mg quercetin/g) content. Critically, Ciprofloxacin residues (35.33 µg/kg) were confirmed in the positive control.

Conclusion: Polyalthia longifolia ethanolic leaf extract, particularly at 3 g/L, functioned as a multifunctional, residue-free alternative to conventional AGPs, simultaneously enhancing growth efficiency, improving key meat quality attributes, and enriching nutritional and antioxidant profiles.

Agronomic and Structural Characterization of Cocoa Orchards and Growers in Main Production Area of Côte d’Ivoire

2026-06-03T11:24:46+00:00

Côte d'Ivoire is the world’s top cocoa producer, contributing about 38% of global supply and supporting its economy and farmers’ livelihoods. Cocoa production faces challenges such as low yields, ageing farms, climate change, pests, and diseases. A diagnosis of Ivorian cocoa orchard was carried out from 2015 to 2017 through a survey conducted in 16 departments representative of the three major cocoa-producing areas. The objective was to update characteristics of cocoa producers and agronomic characteristics of cocoa plantations in Côte d'Ivoire. To this end, a sample of 474 producers was surveyed during investigation. Results showed that, in terms of producer characteristics, the majority of producers are indigenous and illiterate. Concerning characteristics of orchards, results showed that most of the plantations (57.57 %) are located on former forest land and mostly use "general" plant material (70.43 %) to create plantations. Average size of plantations is 3.39 hectares, but most of producers (51.92 %) have plots ranging from 0 to 2 hectares. Fields are very often acquired through creation (48 %) and inheritance (46%). Plantations aged between 5 and 15 years were the most common in the first and second cocoa loop with rates of 40 % and 38 %. As for the third loop, more than 45% of plantations are over 30 years old. In addition, more than 50% of orchards produce between 0-250 kg/ha/year. Agroforestry systems were also observed in most of cocoa plantations visited (95%).

Knowledge of Farmers on Organic Farming in Bundelkhand Region of Uttar Pradesh, India

2026-06-03T11:36:24+00:00

The natural resources are considered as valuable assets of the nation and for their sustainable agricultural development, proper planning and management of these resources are essential. In this context, the present study was conducted in Hamirpur district of Bundelkhand region in Uttar Pradesh for assessing the knowledge of farmers regarding organic farming practices. The research applied an ex-post facto research design. A total of 120 respondents were selected from the two blocks by simple random sampling in proportion to size of the sample from selected villages. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule consisting of 22 knowledge items on various aspects of organic farming such as organic inputs, farmyard manure, vermicompost, bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides, organic certification, disease management, alternatives to chemical fertilisers and pesticides and marketing management. The data collected were analysed by frequency, percentage, mean and ranking method. The results revealed that most of the respondents had medium level of knowledge of organic farming (81.66%). Nine per cent (9.16) respondents had high level and 9.16 per cent had low level of knowledge. The study revealed that farmers have moderate level of awareness regarding organic farming practices but there is a need for effective training, extension support and awareness programmes to improve their knowledge and adoption of sustainable organic farming technologies in the Bundelkhand region.

Optimization of Nutrient Solution Concentration and Substrate Selection for Hydroponic Basil Cultivation

2026-06-03T13:22:43+00:00

Hydroponic cultivation is gaining importance as a sustainable and efficient method for crop production under controlled environmental conditions. The present study was conducted to standardize nutrient solution concentration for different growing substrates in hydroponic basil cultivation under a naturally ventilated polyhouse at Dr. NTR College of Agricultural Engineering, Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh. The experiment consisted of four nutrient concentrations, viz., 900 ppm, 1000 ppm, 1100 ppm and 1200 ppm, and four growing media, namely rockwool, clay balls, perlite and vermiculite. The experiment was carried out during four different seasons to evaluate the interaction effect of nutrient concentration and growing media on sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) yield. Statistical optimization and analysis were performed using Design-Expert employing a split-plot multilevel categorical factor design. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated that nutrient concentration, growing media and their interaction significantly influenced basil yield (p< 0.05). The developed regression models showed high coefficients of determination (R² > 0.87), indicating good model adequacy and prediction accuracy. The results revealed that 1100 ppm nutrient concentration produced superior yield compared to other concentrations across seasons. Vermiculite performed better during summer conditions, whereas rockwool and clay balls showed improved performance during cooler seasons due to better aeration and moisture balance. The optimization study demonstrated that suitable nutrient concentration combined with appropriate growing media significantly enhanced sweet basil productivity in hydroponic systems. The study concluded that 1100 ppm nutrient concentration with suitable substrate selection can be recommended for maximizing basil yield under protected hydroponic cultivation.

Effect of Nano DAP on Productivity and Profitability of Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek]

2026-06-04T12:00:27+00:00

A field experiment was conducted during the kharif seasons of 2023 and 2024 at the Main Agricultural Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, to evaluate the effect of Nano DAP on productivity and profitability of mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with seven treatments and three replications. Treatments comprised different levels of recommended dose of phosphorus (RDP) with or without foliar application of Nano DAP at 25 and 40 days after sowing (DAS). Pooled results indicated that application of 100% RDP along with foliar spray of Nano DAP @ 2 ml L⁻¹ at 25 and 40 DAS significantly improved growth parameters, yield attributes and seed yield. The treatment recorded maximum plant height (53.8 cm), branches per plant (4.40), pods per plant (26.32), seeds per pod (11.95) and 100-seed weight (4.17 g). Consequently, the highest seed yield (1656 kg ha⁻¹) was obtained, which was significantly superior to other treatments but comparable with 100% RDP + single Nano DAP spray. Economic analysis revealed that the same treatment recorded higher gross returns (₹90,498 ha⁻¹), net returns (₹66,855 ha⁻¹) and benefit–cost ratio (4.28). The enhanced performance was attributed to improved phosphorus-use efficiency, better nutrient uptake and improved source–sink relationship under integrated soil and foliar nutrition. The study concluded that combined application of 100% RDP with Nano DAP foliar sprays at critical growth stages is an effective and economically viable strategy for enhancing mungbean productivity under rainfed conditions of the northern transition zone of Karnataka (Zone-8).

Decoding Yield-Related Trait Interactions through Genetic Variability and Association Analysis in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

2026-06-04T13:17:33+00:00

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is an important self-pollinated pulse crop rich in protein and widely cultivated, especially in India, contributing significantly to food and nutritional security. Despite its importance, its productivity remains low and unstable due to a narrow genetic base and susceptibility to various biotic and abiotic stresses. The present investigation was undertaken at the Pulses Research Station, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh during Rabi 2024-25 in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The current study aims to evaluate genetic variability, correlation coefficient analysis and path coefficient analysis with respect to seed yield and its components in forty-eight genotypes of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Eleven morphological traits of the plant, pod, and seed were observed and noted. Genotypes BG-4047 (18.58 g) followed by DC-2305 (18.47 g) andICCV231108 (15.47 g)recorded the highest seed yield per plant. High PCV and GCV were observed for characters like seed yield per plant followed by biological yield per plant and number of pods per plant. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for number of pods per plant, seed yield per plant, biological yield per plant and 100-seed weight. Highly significant and positive correlation of seed yield per plant was found with biological yield per plant, number of pods per plant, 100-seed weight, harvest index, plant height and reproductive phase duration at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. The path coefficient analysis revealed high and positive direct effects of biological yield per plant and harvest index on seed yield per plant. Path coefficient analysis revealed that the contribution of residual effects that influenced seed yield per plant was low reflecting that the traits in the study were sufficient to account for the variability in the dependent variable.

Changes in Soil Chemical Properties under Crotalaria Cultivation in the Sudanian Zones of Burkina Faso

2026-06-05T04:38:29+00:00

In Burkina Faso, over 65% of arable land is degraded, leading to significant annual losses of nutrients. To address this challenge, this study was conducted to assess the effects of two Crotalaria species on soil chemical properties and to evaluate their potential for restoring degraded soils under smallholder farming conditions. A split-plot experimental design was implemented, combining two factors: Crotalaria species as the main factor and fertilizers (organic, mineral, and their combination) as the secondary factor. Treatments included a control (T0), organic matter alone (OM), Burkina Phosphate alone (BP), and their combination (OM+BP). This study was conducted in 2023 and 2024 on two representative sites of the Sudanian zones (Noumousso in the South and Arbollé in the North). Wet scarification using a hoe (manga) was done in the sites in 2023 and 2024. Once the plots were delimitated, amendments were applied at the rates of 5 t ha^-1 of OM and 500 kg ha^-1 of BP. Soil was subsequently tilled on the same day, and 300 seeds of the species were evenly sown in the respective subplots. Plot dimensions were 38 m x 16 m, for the main plots, and 5 m x 2 m, for the subplot. Soil chemical analyses performed over two consecutive years revealed a significant improvement in soil properties: increases in pH, C/N ratio, total and available nutrients, exchangeable bases, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and base saturation rate. In the North, pH increased from 5.17 to 5.92 and CEC from 3.7 to 5.6 meq/100 g between the initial year and the second year. In the South, total phosphorus increased more than sevenfold. These results demonstrate that combining Crotalaria species with organo-mineral fertilization sustainably enhances chemical quality of degraded soils. The technology implemented in this study, which led to significant improvements in soil chemical properties over two years, could be considered an improved fallow technology.

Socio-Economic Profile and Constraints Analysis of Carrot Growers in Hosur Taluk, Tamil Nadu, India

2026-06-05T08:56:10+00:00

Background: Carrot cultivation in Hosur, a major horticultural hub of Tamil Nadu, has expanded commercially due to urban market demand, but concerns remain over stagnant productivity and inefficient resource use despite increasing cultivated area.

Aims: The study aimed to evaluate the growth performance of carrots over the last decade, analyze the socio-economic characteristics of growers, and identify production and marketing constraints in Hosur Taluk.

Study Design: A two-stage random sampling technique was adopted for primary data collection. Secondary data were analyzed using growth models.

Place and Duration of Study: Hosur Taluk, Krishnagiri District, Tamil Nadu. Primary survey: 2024-2025; Secondary data analysis: 2015-2025.

Methodology: Primary data were collected from 120 farmers. Compound Growth Rate (CGR) was calculated using the exponential function. Garrett’s Ranking Technique was used to prioritize farmer constraints.

Results: The area under carrot cultivation showed an accelerated growth rate of 7.12% per annum, while production grew at 6.85%. Productivity, however, showed a stagnant trend (-0.25%). Socio-economic results indicated a 45% illiteracy rate among respondents. "Incidence of Pests and Diseases" (Score 54.67) and "Price Fluctuation" (Score 54.95) were the top-ranked constraints.

Conclusion: Despite horizontal expansion in area, vertical growth (productivity) is limited by technical gaps and market volatility. Strengthening extension services and cold chain infrastructure is essential.

Influence of Mixed Formulation of Biostimulants on Productivity and Profitability of Sweet Corn

2026-06-05T10:57:01+00:00

Sweet corn is a high-value maize crop cultivated for its tender green cobs, superior taste, and nutritional richness. Increasing demand from consumers and the processing industry has emphasized the need for strategies that enhance crop productivity and farm profitability. In this context, biostimulants have emerged as promising inputs that can improve plant growth, nutrient uptake, and stress tolerance, thereby contributing to higher yields and better economic returns in sweet corn cultivation. A field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2025 at the College Farm, School of Agricultural Sciences, Malla Reddy University, to evaluate the influence of a novel mixed biostimulant formulation on the agronomic performance of sweet corn (Zea mays var. saccharata L.). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications and seven treatments. The treatments comprised foliar application of a mixed biostimulant formulation @ 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 mL L⁻¹ in water, along with the 100% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) and an untreated control. The results revealed that foliar application of the mixed biostimulant formulation @ 5 mL L⁻¹ significantly enhanced growth parameters, including plant height, leaf area index, and dry matter production, compared to the control and other treatments. The same treatment also recorded significantly higher cob yield (165.3 q ha⁻¹), representing a 15.35% increase over 100% RDF and a 49.30% increase over the control, along with higher stover yield and economic returns. Furthermore, the treatment recorded the highest benefit:cost (B:C) ratio of 2.44, indicating its economic viability. Therefore, foliar application of the mixed biostimulant formulation @ 5 mL L⁻¹ was effective in improving sweet corn productivity and profitability.

Evaluation of F5 Breeding Lines Derived from Pranahitha for Bacterial Leaf Blight Resistance and Yield Performance

2026-05-28T16:12:04+00:00

Rice is the second most important crop in the world. There is a need to increase the production and productivity of rice to meet the demand of a growing population at an alarming rate. Biotic and abiotic stresses are the major constraints for achieving the required yield. Bacterial leaf blight represents one of the most significant biotic constraints limiting rice productivity across major rice-growing regions. The present study was undertaken to assess the phenotypic response of fifty breeding lines derived from the cross (Pranahitha//ISM/MTU1010 NIL) against this disease. The experiment was carried out under controlled glasshouse conditions at the Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Polasa, Jagtial. During the Kharif season of 2021, the breeding lines were artificially inoculated with a bacterial leaf blight isolate (DX-020) using the leaf clipping technique. Among the fifty F₅ breeding lines evaluated, twenty-seven lines exhibited a resistant reaction, each recording a disease score of 1. A further eight lines were categorised as moderately resistant, with a disease score of 3. Notably, the twenty-seven resistant lines also demonstrated superior grain yield performance. Consequently, these lines were selected for advancement to subsequent generations. The findings of this investigation indicate that phenotypic selection under glasshouse conditions is an effective approach for identifying bacterial leaf blight-resistant genotypes. Moreover, the high-yielding lines identified in this study are anticipated to perform favourably in field evaluations and, ultimately, under farmers’ cultivation conditions, while maintaining a satisfactory level of resistance to bacterial leaf blight.

Effectiveness of a Windrow of Lawn Clippings for Massive Yield of Eudrilus eugeniae in Côte d'Ivoire

2026-06-05T13:04:38+00:00

The valorization of agricultural organic residues produced in large quantities represented a major challenge in Côte d'Ivoire. In this context, vermicomposting, which transformed these residues into vermicompost, an organic fertilizer, constituted a sustainable solution for agriculture. However, the availability of earthworms remained a major constraint for the implementation of this process. Thus, this study, conducted in Yamoussoukro, demonstrated the effectiveness of a windrow of dry lawn clippings as an experimental system for producing significant biomasses of Eudrilus eugeniae, an epigenic earthworm species used to improve vermicompost profitability. The average temperature of 25 °C and the rainfall of 95 mm recorded between 2010 and 2019, corresponding to the favorable living conditions of Eudrilus eugeniae, made it possible to determine the implementation period of the windrow from July to October 2020. The windrow covered an area of 14 m² with a height of 10 cm and consisted of approximately 112 kg of dry lawn clippings. During the three-month experiment, 50 rainless days were recorded, which required irrigation. In total, 384 liters of water were applied in 16 irrigation events, at a rate of 24 liters every three days, in order to maintain optimal moisture conditions. At the end of the three months, 3,600 earthworms were harvested. These worms enabled the inoculation of 18 composters at a density of 200 individuals per composter. The results confirmed the feasibility of this windrow system, which was adapted to tropical conditions and accessible to smallholder farmers, with the objective of improving the fertility of market garden crops.

Advancing Agribusiness Value Chains through Farmer Producer Organizations: A Critical Review of Opportunities, Constraints and Policy Support

2026-05-27T13:17:43+00:00

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) have emerged as important institutional mechanisms for strengthening agribusiness value chains and improving the socio-economic conditions of small and marginal farmers in developing economies. This review critically examines the role of FPOs in enhancing market participation, collective bargaining, value addition, and sustainable agricultural development. The study is based on a comprehensive review of secondary literature, including academic journals, institutional reports, and policy documents related to agricultural commercialization, collective action, and rural development. The findings indicate that FPOs contribute significantly to reducing transaction costs, improving access to quality inputs, strengthening market linkages, and facilitating financial inclusion for farmers. FPOs also encourage value addition, rural entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, and climate-resilient agricultural practices. However, the review identifies several challenges affecting their long-term sustainability, including weak governance, inadequate managerial capacity, limited infrastructure, insufficient institutional finance, and policy implementation gaps. Comparative evidence from India and other developing countries further highlights the importance of professional management, digital integration, and strong institutional support in ensuring successful FPO performance. The study concludes that well-supported and efficiently managed FPOs can play a transformative role in building inclusive, competitive, and sustainable agribusiness value chains.

Biochar-based Controlled-release Fertilizers: Smart Nutrition for Sustainable Agriculture

2026-06-05T09:02:52+00:00

Biochar-based controlled-release fertilizers (BCRFs) have emerged as a smart and sustainable alternative to conventional chemical fertilizers, addressing the critical challenges of low nutrient use efficiency and environmental pollution. This review systematically synthesizes the paradigm shift of BCRFs from passive nutrient carriers to intelligent regulators in soil‑plant systems. A structured literature search was performed from January 2015 to April 2026 in Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar using keywords such as “biochar‑based controlled‑release fertilizers”, “smart nutrition”, and “nutrient use efficiency”. A two‑stage screening (title/abstract followed by full text) and systematic data extraction were employed, prioritizing studies with robust experimental designs and field‑scale validations. The findings demonstrate that BCRFs significantly enhance crop yield (by 15–30%), nutrient use efficiency (up to 58.8% for N), soil water retention, and carbon sequestration, while reducing nutrient leaching (by 69–88%), greenhouse gas emissions (up to 66% for N₂O), and cadmium accumulation in crops (by 80%). Key mechanisms include physical barrier effects, chemical interactions (hydrogen bonding, complexation), and stimuli‑responsive release (pH, moisture, temperature). Advanced formulations (e.g., ethylcellulose/soybean wax coatings, nano‑enabled carriers, high‑pressure impregnation) further improve release kinetics. However, performance varies with feedstock, pyrolysis conditions, and coating materials. Challenges remain in long‑term field validation, standardized life‑cycle and techno‑economic assessment, ecological risk evaluation, and scalable production. Future directions include multi‑stimuli responsive systems, AI‑driven optimization, and interdisciplinary collaboration. This review provides an engineering‑to‑agronomy framework to guide researchers, policymakers, and farmers toward climate‑smart deployment of BCRFs.