Archives of Current Research International

Advances in Fruit Crop Breeding: Conventional and Molecular Approaches

Shashi Ranjan Pratap Singh, Jai Prakash Prasad — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Fruit crop breeding has transformed from traditional selection to advanced molecular techniques, significantly enhancing productivity and climate resilience. Conventional methods—including mass selection, pure line selection, hybridization, and mutation breeding—laid the foundation for varietal innovation. Hybridization, specifically, has been instrumental in pyramiding desirable traits and exploiting heterosis to create superior F1 hybrids in species like papaya and passion fruit. The integration of molecular tools like Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS), Genomic Selection (GS), and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing has drastically reduced breeding cycles. MAS allows for early-stage selection of traits such as disease resistance and fruit quality, while GS predicts breeding values across the entire genome, overcoming the limitations of traditional phenotyping. CRISPR/Cas9 offers unprecedented precision for targeted gene knockouts or sequence replacements, addressing challenges like shelf-life extension and nutritional fortification. Indian research institutions, including IIHR and CISH, have contributed significantly by developing improved varieties of mango (e.g., Amrapali), banana, and citrus tailored to local agro-climatic conditions. Despite these successes, implementation is hindered by insufficient funding, poor infrastructure, regulatory complexities, and a shortage of skilled personnel. Future advancements lie in speed breeding, artificial intelligence-based predictive modeling, and multi-omics integration. Modernizing infrastructure and streamlining regulatory frameworks are essential for India to guarantee food security and economic sustainability through sustainable fruit crop improvement.

Nanobubble & Plasma Water Technology in Aquaculture

Satyajit Belsare, Krupesh Sawant, Manoj Ghughuskar, Asif Pagarkar — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Nanobubble and plasma-activated water technologies are emerging as promising tools to improve water quality, fish health, and productivity in aquaculture. The unique properties of nanobubbles, including prolonged residence time and high gas transfer efficiency, enable them to enhance dissolved oxygen levels, improve water quality, and help control pathogenic microorganisms. Plasma activated water (PAW) is produced by exposing water to non-thermal plasma and is a complex mixture of reactive species that has been successfully used in the disinfection of waters, promotion of fish growth and immunity. This review provides an overview of the principles, generation methods, and possible applications of nanobubble and plasma water technologies in aquaculture. This perspective evaluates the roles of these technologies to improve aquaculture efficiency, their opportunities and challenges and future research directions needed for this important technology advancement to help transition the aquaculture industry towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

Impact of Organic Farming Practices on Crop Productivity and Soil Health: A Review

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Organic farming represents a sustainable agricultural paradigm that prioritises ecological balance, biodiversity, and natural inputs over synthetic chemicals. In organic farming, practices like crop rotation, livestock integration, and composting enhance nutrient cycling, suppress pests, and close yield gaps. This review synthesises evidence on key practices—crop rotation, cover cropping, green manures, composting, integrated pest management, and conservation tillage—and their effects on crop productivity and soil health. Organic systems often yield 10-20% less than conventional counterparts due to nitrogen limitations and pest pressures, yet they excel in nutritional quality, with higher antioxidants and omega-3s in produce. Crops demonstrate greater resilience to abiotic stresses like drought, attributed to robust root systems and microbial symbiosis. Soil health markedly improves: organic matter accumulates, fostering microbial diversity and enzyme activity essential for nutrient cycling. Enhanced soil structure boosts water retention and erosion resistance, while biofumigation and antagonists suppress soil-borne pathogens. Challenges include yield gaps, weed proliferation, and a 2-3 year transition period with productivity dips, impacting economic viability. Long-term studies underscore closing gaps through optimised practices. Organic farming bolsters food security and ecosystem services, advocating policy support for transition. It is recommended that a comprehensive strategy be developed in collaboration with local authorities, NGOs, and community organisations to ensure widespread adoption and long-term success. Long-term comparative studies across agroecological zones highlight organic farming's advantages in carbon sequestration, biodiversity enhancement, and nutrient cycling, which mitigate climate impacts and enable yield parity or superiority during droughts via improved soil organic matter and water retention. Future directions encompass comparative trials, advanced metagenomic indicators, and socio-economic models for scaling.

Digital Pedagogy and E-Content Integration in Entomology Education: A Comprehensive Review

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

E-content, defined as digitally created or digitized instructional content, including multimedia lectures, virtual labs, digitized insect collections, mobile applications, 3D anatomical models, and interactive tutorials, provides flexible, self-paced and personalized learning opportunities for entomology students. The field of entomology, which deals with the study of insects, is experiencing a paradigm shift due to the rapid advancement in digital technologies and e-learning methodologies. Traditional classroom practices are being complemented and, in some cases, replaced by e-content and digital pedagogy. The integration of e-content and digital pedagogy in entomology education is not merely a technological shift but a pedagogical evolution that enhances accessibility, efficiency, inclusiveness, and experiential depth in learning. This review explores the integration of digital resources in entomology education by covering the historical development, importance, modern tools, challenges, opportunities, and future strategies. With extensive citations, this paper aims to serve as a comprehensive reference for educators, policymakers, and curriculum developers in agricultural and biological sciences. Digital pedagogy has democratized access to high-quality educational resources by transcending geographical barriers, enabling both students and professionals from rural and remote areas to partake in cutting-edge entomological knowledge and skill development. The convergence of e-content and digital pedagogy has not only enriched the pedagogical repertoire of entomology educators but also empowered learners with dynamic, accessible, and future-ready modes of learning, thereby laying a strong foundation for building next-generation entomologists capable of tackling complex bioecological challenges and contributing meaningfully to sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and public health entomology.

Synergistic Effects of Combined Application of Plant Growth Hormones and Micronutrients on Mulberry Biomass and Leaf Protein Content

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Mulberry (Morus spp.) leaf biomass and protein content are primary determinants of silkworm growth, cocoon yield and raw silk quality. Conventional recommendations rely mainly on NPK fertilization, but in the last 3–4 decades many studies have evaluated plant growth regulators (PGRs / plant hormones) and micronutrient foliar sprays – often in combined commercial formulations – to improve mulberry productivity and nutritive value. Synthesizing the available work on mulberry, and supportive evidence from related crops, indicates that exogenous PGRs (auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, triacontanol) and micronutrients (Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, B, Mg) act synergistically to: (i) increase leaf area, shoot growth and total biomass, (ii) improve chlorophyll and photosynthetic efficiency, (iii) enhance nitrogen assimilation and soluble protein in leaves, and (iv) improve downstream silkworm performance. Triacontanol- and GA₃-based commercial foliar formulations that also contain multi-micronutrients (e.g. Seriboost, Plantonik, triacontanol–micronutrient mixtures) consistently show higher gains than either PGR or micronutrients alone, with 10–25% increases in leaf yield, improved leaf moisture and higher crude/soluble protein content in multiple field trials. However, dose–response relationships, variety-specific optimization, and detailed biochemical mechanisms in mulberry are not yet fully standardized.

Advancements in Irrigation Technologies and Water Management Strategies for Sustainable Agriculture: A Comprehensive Review

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Sustainable agriculture faces escalating pressures from climate change, population growth, and finite natural resources, with the sector currently accounting for approximately 70% of global freshwater withdrawals. The present review examines the critical shift from the traditional, gravity-fed irrigation methods—such as flooding and furrow systems—which are often subjected to excessive evaporation and runoff losses, in addition to non-uniform water distribution. These conventional practices not only deplete vital water reserves but also demand high energy inputs and contribute significantly to soil degradation, salinization, and reduced crop productivity.

To address these challenges, the review highlights modern advancements in irrigation technologies, including drip, micro, sprinkler, and subsurface systems, which dramatically enhance water use efficiency (WUE). Specifically, drip and micro-irrigation systems achieve application efficiencies of 90–95% by delivering water directly to plant root zones, minimizing wastage. A core focus of this review is the integration of precision agriculture tools—such as soil moisture sensors, remote sensing techniques, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI). These technologies enable real-time monitoring and adaptive scheduling, allowing for precise water delivery based on actual crop needs rather than fixed schedules.

In addition to technological innovations, the review evaluates broader water management and harvesting strategies essential for climate resilience. These include rainwater harvesting, the treatment and recycling of wastewater, desalination, and the implementation of deficit irrigation—a strategy that optimizes yields under restricted water supply. Furthermore, the review discusses the critical role of genetic advancements and biotechnological interventions in developing drought-resistant and salt-tolerant crop varieties to enhance agricultural stability against increasing climate variability.

By shifting toward these precision-based and sustainable alternatives, the agricultural sector can mitigate environmental degradation, reduce its carbon footprint, and secure global food security. The review concludes that the widespread adoption of these advanced technologies, supported by favorable policy frameworks and farmer education, is an essential pathway for the long-term viability of agriculture in resource-constrained regions. The transition from legacy systems to data-driven irrigation is no longer optional but a necessity for ecological balance and future food sovereignty.

Behavioural Nudges in Agricultural Extension: A Systematic Review of Strategies and Frameworks to Influence Farmers Decision Making

A. Thirumal, Rajula Bheemannagari Deepika, B. P. Harish, R. Nirosha — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Nudge theory, which has its roots in behavioral economics, has become well-known as a strategy for influencing choices without limiting personal freedom. Conventional methods of agricultural extension have mostly depended on the distribution of knowledge and financial incentives, presuming that farmers are logical decision-makers. However, empirical data shows that social norms, risk perceptions, cognitive biases, and contextual limitations frequently impact farmers' decisions, reducing the efficacy of conventional extension tactics. The goal of this study is to thoroughly examine the techniques, implementations, and theoretical underpinnings of nudge-based interventions in agricultural extension. Using predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, a systematic review technique was implemented, utilizing material from significant academic databases. In order to categorize nudge theories and investigate their empirical applicability in influencing farmers' behavior, pertinent researches were examined. The analysis highlights important nudge tactics that have demonstrated promise in boosting adoption of technology, encouraging sustainable agriculture practices, and improving adherence to environmental rules. These tactics include framing, default options, reminders, social comparison, and commitment mechanisms. According to empirical research, farmers' decision-making may be positively impacted by interventions such SMS reminders, social norm messages, and incentive-based nudges. However, these therapies' efficacy varies depending on the context and is frequently constrained when used alone. The study comes to the conclusion that policy interventions can be more successful when behavioral insights are incorporated into agricultural extension programs. It emphasizes the necessity of nudge-based strategies that are context-specific, scalable, and supported by empirical evidence in order to promote sustainable agricultural development.

Effect of Postharvest Treatments on the Physico-Chemical Characteristics and Shelf-life of Guava (Psidium guajava L.)

Shiv Bhavan, Balveer Singh, Manoher Saryam, Malay Marut Sharma, Harsit Sharma — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Guava (Psidium guajava L.) is a highly perishable tropical fruit that undergoes rapid physiological and biochemical changes after harvest, leading to weight loss, decay, softness, nutrient degradation and reduction in overall marketability. Postharvest treatments such as edible coatings, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), SO₂ fumigation, calcium salts, antioxidants and plant-based extracts have been widely explored to minimize postharvest losses. This review summarizes research findings on various postharvest treatments, including aloe vera gel, ascorbic acid, LDPE packaging, chitosan, calcium salts, gum arabic, and SO₂fumigation and their impact on guava shelf life and quality parameters. Studies consistently report that edible coatings and MAP significantly reduce physiological loss in weight (PLW), maintain firmness, delay ripening, reduce decay and preserve ascorbic acid and sugar content. Aloe vera gel (20–100%), chitosan (1%), LDPE packaging and combinations of natural extracts have shown superior performance in maintaining fruit quality under ambient and refrigerated storage. SO₂ fumigation, though effective in controlling browning in other fruits like litchi, has limited direct use in guava. Overall, natural edible coatings and LDPE-based MAP emerge as the most promising, cost-effective and eco-friendly techniques to extend guava shelf-life and maintain nutritional and sensory quality.

Multifaceted Influences of Osmolytes on Heat Stress Tolerance Mechanism of Plants under Changing Climate

Radha Singh, Divya Singh, Sanat Kumar Tripathi — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The climate is becoming more stressful and is causing extreme heat stress events, which are challenging the productivity of agricultural activities and the survival of plants across the world. Osmolytes, which are organic and inorganic compatible solutes, are important biochemical adaptations by which plants can endure high temperatures. The study aims to review osmolyte-mediated heat stress tolerance for the understanding of climate-resistant agricultural systems. The mechanism of action of these molecules is a combination of interlinked processes such as osmotic adjustment, protein stabilisation, membrane protection, and reactive oxygen species scavenging. Large volume osmolytes (proline, glycine betaine, trehalose, mannitol and polyamines) are concentrated significantly during heat stress, ensuring cellular homeostasis and metabolic life support. There is highly developed research on the topic that has shown that osmolyte biosynthesis is controlled by multifaceted signalling pathways that comprise transcriptional factors, kinases, and epigenetic alterations. Osmolytes, when exogenously applied, have proven to have impressive potential in improving thermotolerance in various crop species. This is a full-scale review of the current knowledge regarding osmolyte-mediated heat stress alleviation, considering the molecular pathways, metabolism, genetic control, as well as biotechnological use. The new developments in osmolyte accumulation engineering were examined by use of transgenic methods and molecular breeding. Knowledge of such complex protective functions helps in generating climate-resistant cultivars that can be sustained to produce under rising temperatures of thermal stress. It is recommended that implementation should focus on regulatory systems, economic feasibility, and adoption mechanisms for farmers—particularly vulnerable smallholder groups in climate-stressed regions.

Mulberry Nutrition and Its Influence on Silkworm Growth and Cocoon Yield

K Nisarga, K Ranganatha, Venkatareddy L R, Sujan D, Nutan Yadav D, O Ganesh — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Sericulture, the production of silk, is an agro-based industry that is critically dependent on the nutritional quality of mulberry (Morus spp.) leaves, the exclusive food source for the silkworm, Bombyx mori L. This review critically synthesizes the intricate relationship between mulberry nutrition, silkworm physiology and cocoon productivity. The nutritional status of mulberry leaves, governed by soil fertility and nutrient management practices, directly dictates their biochemical composition, including proteins, carbohydrates, amino acids, minerals and vitamins. Optimized nutrient application, particularly of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), enhances leaf biomass and enriches these key biochemical constituents, thereby improving leaf quality and palatability. High-quality leaves promote superior larval growth, shorten larval duration and increase survival rates by enhancing the activity of digestive enzymes and optimizing metabolic processes in the silkworm. Consequently, improved larval health translates into significant gains in economic traits, such as increased cocoon weight, shell ratio and filament length. This review examines the effects of conventional, organic and integrated nutrient management (INM) strategies on both mulberry cultivation and silkworm rearing performance. Emerging approaches like precision nutrient management and the use of biostimulants offer pathways to further enhance nutrient use efficiency and sustainability. A comprehensive understanding of the mulberry-silkworm nutritional nexus is paramount for developing sustainable sericultural practices that ensure high cocoon yield and superior silk quality, thereby strengthening the economic viability of the silk industry.

Successful Therapeutic Management of Corneal Opacity Associated with Keratoconjunctivitis in a Goat: A Case Report

Ratnesh Kumar Choudhary, Anil Kumar, Manoj Kumar Singh, Nikee Kumari — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Keratoconjunctivitis is a common ocular condition in sheep and goats that causes inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva. It is frequently related with infectious pathogens such Moraxella spp, Mycoplasma spp., and Chlamydophila spp., as well as environmental irritants. The current case report focused on successful treatment of bilateral corneal opacity caused by infectious keratoconjunctivitis in a 1.8-year-old female Black Bengal goat. Clinical examination revealed mucopurulent ocular discharge, congested conjunctiva, corneal opacity, and partial blindness, as demonstrated by decreased menace and pupillary light reflexes. Haematological analysis showed leucocytosis and neutrophilia indicating infection. Therapeutic management included intravenous administration of oxytetracycline (@10 mg/kg) for 7 days, along with topical ophthalmic drops containing moxifloxacin and prednisolone acetate for 10 days, following eye lavage with normal saline. Supportive therapy with oral multivitamins was also provided. Marked clinical improvement was observed within one week, with complete resolution of corneal opacity achieved after three weeks of treatment.

Prevalence of Symptoms of Temporomandibular Dysfunction, Anxiety, and Depression in the Homeless People in the Federal District - Brazil

Poanka Faleiro, Lorenza Maria Novato Frattesi, Antônio Sérgio Guimarães — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Social vulnerability can trigger various disorders due to everyday factors that compromise quality of life and influence physical pain. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of symptoms of temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), anxiety, and depression in homeless individuals. This is cross-sectional observational study, where sociodemographic questionnaires, the Diagnostic Criteria for Research (DC/TMD) symptom questionnaire, and the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HAD) were applied to 40 homeless individuals in Brasília/DF. Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, chi-square test, and Cohen's d'Or with Hedges correction were used to evaluate the study variables in SPSS, considering a significance level of 5% (p≤0.05). It was observed that 42.5% of participants reported having experienced pain in the jaw, temple, ear, or anterior region of the ear, while 57.5% denied this symptom It can be observed that the average number of positive responses was 4.88 (SD 2.32), indicating that, on average, participants presented approximately five positive responses on the instrument. Anxiety showed a mean of 11.25, with a low standard deviation (0.46), depression, on the other hand, showed a mean of 9.58, with a standard deviation of 1.11. The association between anxiety, depression, and chronic pain may increase the risk or worsening of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in homeless individuals. In the present study, homeless individuals presented symptoms of TMD, with high levels of chronic pain in this group, in addition to concerning rates of anxiety and depression, especially in the female population.

Formulation and Standardization of a Cognitive-oriented Knowledge Test on Fodder Production and Its Utilization

Ravneet Kaur, Pranav Kumar, Anna Singh — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The present study aimed to develop and standardize a cognitive-oriented knowledge test to assess farmers’ understanding of fodder production and its utilization in the Jammu district. A comprehensive pool of 155 knowledge items covering key domains—fodder scenario, crop selection, cultivation practices, advanced production techniques, preservation methods, feeding practices, government schemes, non-conventional feed resources, and market linkages—was initially generated through literature review and expert consultation. After relevancy screening, 94 items were retained and subjected to item analysis using difficulty and discrimination indices. Based on established statistical criteria, 49 items were finally selected for inclusion in the standardized test, with difficulty index values ranging from 30–80 and discrimination indices between 0.30–0.55. The reliability of the instrument was confirmed using the split-half method (0.85) and the Spearman–Brown prophecy formula (0.91), while internal consistency measured through Cronbach’s alpha was 0.823 (p < 0.05). Content validity was ensured through expert evaluation. The standardized knowledge test provides a scientifically validated tool for systematically measuring farmers’ cognitive understanding of fodder production and utilization practices. Its structured format allows researchers, extension professionals, and training institutions to objectively assess baseline knowledge levels, identify specific knowledge gaps, and evaluate learning outcomes following capacity-building interventions. By administering the test before and after training programs, practitioners can quantitatively measure improvements in farmers’ knowledge and determine the effectiveness of training modules, instructional strategies, and extension approaches. Furthermore, the scale serves as a useful monitoring and evaluation instrument for agricultural and livestock extension services by enabling comparison of knowledge levels across regions, farmer groups, and time periods. Consequently, the standardized test can support evidence-based planning, refinement of extension strategies, and the design of targeted training programs aimed at improving fodder production, feed management, and overall livestock productivity.

Geospatial Modeling of Forest Canopy Density in Hunsur Taluk, Karnataka, India

K. P. Naveena, K. V. Murali, Hubballi Sudha, Manasa — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Forest Canopy Density (FCD) is an important indicator for assessing forest health, biomass distribution, and ecosystem resilience. However, spatially explicit assessments of canopy density in fragmented dry deciduous landscapes remain limited, particularly using integrated multi-index geospatial approaches. This study aims to model forest canopy density in Hunsur Taluk, Mysuru District, Karnataka, India, using multispectral remote sensing data and GIS techniques. Sentinel-2 Level-2A surface reflectance imagery was processed in Google Earth Engine to derive key spectral indices, including the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Advanced Vegetation Index (AVI), Bareness Index (BI), and Shadow Index (SI). These indices were integrated through a weighted overlay method to generate the final FCD map and classify canopy density into five categories. Land Use/Land Cover analysis revealed that cropland dominates the region (46.60%), followed by scrub forest (18.00%), natural forest (17.21%), and plantations (9.29%). NDVI values ranged from −0.517 to 0.888, while the computed FCD values varied from 7.49 to 80.75, indicating considerable spatial heterogeneity in canopy structure. Low canopy density occupied the largest area (23.23%), whereas very high canopy density accounted for 19.83%, highlighting the presence of dense forest pockets within a predominantly agrarian landscape. The integration of multiple spectral indices improved canopy discrimination and reduced single-index limitations in dry deciduous ecosystems. Overall, the study demonstrates that geospatial FCD modelling provides a reliable and cost-effective framework for forest monitoring and can support sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, and environmental planning in semi-arid tropical regions.

Persistence of Chlorantraniliprole in Pigeonpea Pods Against Pod Borers

K. Suneethamma, K. Manjula, K. Devaki, M. Pradeep, P. Lavanya Kumari — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Chlorantraniliprole, a novel diamide insecticide, is widely used for controlling pod borers, particularly Helicoverpa armigera, in pigeonpea crops. The present study investigates the dissipation and residue persistence of chlorantraniliprole in pigeonpea pods under field conditions during therabi seasons of 2021–22 and 2022–23. Chlorantraniliprole was applied as a foliar spray at bud initiation and pod formation stages. Residue extraction was performed using the modified QuEChERS method, followed by analysis via High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The dissipation study revealed that chlorantraniliprole residues dissipated rapidly, with over 90% of the pesticide degraded by Day 5 and complete dissipation (below detectable levels) by Day 10. The pesticide followed first-order kinetics with a half-life of 1.21 days and the safe waiting period before harvest was determined to be 7.51 days, ensuring that residues were below the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) of 0.03 mg/kg. The study confirms that chlorantraniliprole is a rapidly degrading pesticide and adherence to the recommended waiting period ensures its safe use in pigeonpea cultivation. These findings support the safe and effective use of chlorantraniliprole in pest management, particularly against pod borers in pigeonpea, while ensuring consumer safety through the reduction of pesticide residues in edible parts.

Costs and Returns of Betel Vine in Bagawanpur-I Block of Midnapur (East) District of West Bengal, India

G. Mandal, A. Maiti, B. K. Bera, S. De, Md. H. Ali — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Betel vine (Piper betle Linn.) is an economically and medicinally important perennial crop. Cultivation of Betel leaf is a profitable enterprise and also a good source of gainful employment for family members. This production pattern of betel vine complies with the biological nature of perennial crops. This research study focuses on the possibility of Betel Vine cultivation in Bagawanpur-I Block of Midnapur (East) District. The study is based on primary data collected from 50 betel vine growers selected through simple random sampling. The data related to the costs and returns structure were collected in a pre-structured schedule through a personal interview method. Costs and returns were analysed using Cost A1 (paid-out costs) and Cost D (total cost including imputed family labour). The findings reveal that the yield has started increasing from the 2^nd to 6^th year, and then it started to fall. The pattern of average annual total return realised by the sample farmers of the study area is seen to be consistent with that of the leaf production, and it is gradually moving upwards starting from the 2^nd year and have reached the maximum level during the period of 3-6^th year and from 7^th year, it has shown a declining trend till final year i.e., 15^th year. Average annual net return complies similarly to that of physical and gross return across the ages of the boroj i.e., starting farm negative net return in the first year, gradually increases with the increase of age of the plants up to the 6th year when it reaches its maximum level and then gradually declines and attains the lowest level at the age of 15^thyear. The present study clearly highlights the feasibility of betel vine cultivation in Midnapur (East) District. Betel leaf cultivation has also been found to provide a good source of gainful employment for family labor.

A Study of Microfinance and Its Role towards Women Empowerment with Special Reference to Sehore District of Madhya Pradesh

Akanksha Shrivastava, Satwik Sahay Bisarya — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study analyzes the contribution of microfinance in enhancing women’s empowerment in Sehore District of Madhya Pradesh. Both primary and secondary sources of information were utilized to evaluate the multidimensional effects of microfinance services on women’s economic independence, social status, mobility, and participation in household affairs. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to women beneficiaries, while statistical tools were applied to examine the relationships between access to microfinance and different indicators of empowerment. The analysis demonstrates that microfinance has a significant positive influence on several dimensions of empowerment, particularly economic and social aspects. Women who participated in microfinance programmes reported noticeable improvements in income generation, savings behavior, and financial independence. Engagement in income-generating activities strengthened their economic contribution to household welfare and improved their position within the family structure. Economic participation also encouraged better management of household resources and enhanced financial security. Social empowerment was also strengthened through participation in microfinance groups. Women reported higher levels of self-confidence, increased interaction with peers, and stronger participation in community-level activities. Collective platforms created through microfinance institutions helped women build social networks, exchange knowledge, and develop leadership qualities. Mobility showed clear improvement, as women indicated greater freedom to travel for training programmes, group meetings, and livelihood activities, reflecting growing autonomy and self-reliance. Despite these positive outcomes, the findings indicate that microfinance has not produced a statistically significant change in women’s decision-making authority. Although some improvement was observed in routine matters such as household expenditure and minor financial choices, deep-rooted cultural traditions and existing household power structures continue to restrict women’s involvement in major strategic decisions within the family and community. The results highlight that microfinance plays a vital role in strengthening economic stability, social engagement, and mobility among women beneficiaries. These improvements contribute to greater self-confidence and better participation in livelihood activities. Long-term and comprehensive empowerment, however, requires supportive social measures beyond financial services. Strengthening empowerment outcomes requires integration of microfinance programmes with awareness campaigns, skill development initiatives, gender-sensitivity programmes, and educational interventions that address structural barriers. A multidimensional development strategy combining financial inclusion with social transformation can create more sustainable and inclusive pathways for women’s empowerment.

Seasonal Variation in Eri Spun Yarn Quality Enhanced by Digestive Enzymes-Enriched Castor Leaves

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Sericulture represents an important agro-based rural sector, particularly in North-East India where eri silk production is widely practiced. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of digestive enzyme-enriched castor leaves on the quality of eri spun yarn produced by the eri silkworm (Samia ricini Donovan) during the spring (March–April) and autumn (September–October) seasons of 2024–2025. Completely Randomised Design (CRD) were used to set up the experiment. Three α-amylase and lipase concentrations (1%, 3%, and 5%) as well as a combination treatment (1% α-amylase + 1% lipase) were assessed and evaluated with an untreated control. Twist per inch (T.P.I), yarn size, breaking load, tenacity, elongation %, and other aspects of yarn quality were examined. Among treatments, α-amylase at 3% concentration consistently recorded superior performance. In spring, it produced the highest yarn size (19.22 S), breaking load (0.72 kg), tenacity (0.81 g/d), elongation (18.38%), and TPI (18). Similar trends were observed in autumn, though overall values were comparatively lower than spring. The combination treatment also showed improvement over control, particularly in tenacity and elongation. Across all parameters, the control group recorded the lowest values, confirming the beneficial role of digestive enzymes in enhancing silk fibre characteristics. Seasonal comparison indicated that spring conditions were more favourable than autumn, resulting in better yarn quality traits. The study concludes that fortification of castor leaves with digestive enzymes, especially α-amylase at 3% concentration, significantly enhances eri spun yarn quality. This nutritional supplementation strategy offers a practical and effective approach for improving silk productivity and yarn performance under varying seasonal conditions.

Diversity Assessment of Spider Communities (Arachnida: Araneae) across Different Habitat Types in Chhattisgarh, India: Implications for Conservation and Bioindicator Potential

Urwashi Chandrakar, Aparna Jha — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Spiders (Order: Araneai) are one of the most diverse and ecologically important arthropods as significant bioindicators of natural environmental health and natural pest checkers in the earth ecosystem. This study provides an in-depth evaluation of spider diversity in three different districts of Chhattisgarh in India - Gariyaband (forest/hilly area), Mahasamund (mixed forest-agriculture) and Raipur (urban/semi-urban) - during a 12-month season (July 2023 to June 2024). Systematic sampling methods such as pitfall traps, sweep netting and visual encounter survey were used to record 5,137 individuals of 57 species of spiders. Alpha diversity indices showed that there was a lot of variation among the districts, with Gariyaband having the highest species richness (S=59), Shannon-Wiener diversity (H'=4.057) and total abundance (N=2,082), followed by Mahasamund (S=46, H'=3.806, N=1,672) and Raipur (S=36, H'=3.565, N=1,383). One-way ANOVA revealed a significant difference in the abundance of months between the districts with a high level of significance (F=54.423, p<0.001). Beta diversity analysis based on Bray-Curtis dissimilarity and Jaccard similarity indices revealed that there was moderate community differentiation, with the Gariyaband and Mahasamund having the highest similarity (Jaccard Index=0.789). The analysis of seasonal variation showed that the abundance was high during the post-monsoon/winter in all the districts. The results show that habitat heterogeneity and anthropogenic disturbance have a significant effect on the structure of spider communities, which supports the possible use of spiders as valid bioindicators to monitor the ecosystem in Central India.

Development and Functional Characterisation of Nutrient-Dense Snack Bars Enriched with Banana Blossom and Jackfruit Seed Powder

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Snack foods are growing very fast compared to other food products. Today, the concern of people in food is not only to satisfy hunger but also to consume a product which could be beneficial for health or may decrease the risk of developing various diseases. The present study focused on the development and evaluation of texture, total phenolic content, antioxidants and titratable acidity of date and fig bars incorporated with banana blossom and jackfruit seed powders. Six formulations (T₀to T₅) were prepared, with T₀ serving as the control (comprising Medjool dates, dried figs, and jaggery powder), while T₁ to T₅ included varying proportions of jackfruit seed and banana blossom powders. Nutritional profiling revealed that total phenolic content and antioxidant activity were highest in T₅ (2.78mg GAE/100g and 41.35% DPPH scavenging activity, respectively), correlating with the high polyphenol content of banana blossom. Titratable acidity increased due to the presence of organic acids in the added powders. Texture profile analysis showed that the T₃ sample had the best textural parameters. The study concludes that banana blossom and jackfruit seed powders are promising ingredients for enhancing the functional and nutritional profile of fruit- based snack bars, contributing to product diversification, dietary fibre intake, and sustainable utilisation of agro-biodiversity.

Molecular Detection of Bovine Theileria Parasites in Carrier Cattle

Anil Kumar, Sonam Bhatt, Bhoomika, Pankaj Kumar, Amrita Behera — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

A total of 200 blood samples were collected from apparently healthy crossbred cattle of different age group (3-8 years) maintained in organized and unorganized farms in and around Patna including the Institutional Livestock Farm Complex, BASU, Patna. The study was conducted during January 2024–December 2025. The blood samples were subjected to laboratory screening for Theileria infection in apparently healthy cattle using blood smear examination and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The diagnostic sensitivity of PCR was also compared to conventional detection in blood smears by light microscopy. Microscopic examination of blood smears and PCR analysis confirmed Theileria infection in 17 (8.5%) and 28 (14%) of the apparently healthy cattle. Among the PCR-positive cattle, 25 cattle (12.5%) were found positive for T. annulata, whereas 3 cattle (1.5%) were found positive for T. orientalis. Further, T. annulata is the predominant principal etiological agent of theileriosis in carrier cattle in the study region, whereas infections caused by T. orientalis also exist and seems to be comparatively uncommon. However, it is essential to understand the distribution pattern T. orientalis in different agro-climatic conditions that could help us to understand the severity associated with these species and design their control strategies. Considering blood smear as the reference test, PCR showed a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI: 80.5–100%) and specificity of 94% (95% CI: 89.5–96.9%). The high sensitivity indicates that PCR is highly effective in detecting theileria infection in carrier cattle, while the high specificity suggests that it accurately identifies non-infected animals. From this study, it can be concluded that the better sensitivity and specificity of PCR assay could be a better option than microscopic examination to precisely determine the carrier state of theileriosis in cattle.

Dual Focus of Technology Acceptance and Technology Resistant of Older Adults: Two-phased Multi-analytical Models Tested in Sri Lanka

Vilani Sachithra, L. D. C. S. Subhashini, U. S. Samarasinghe — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aim: Digital health care service receives increasing attention and there is an extensive portion of the elders that does not utilize digital health care services. The study aims to develop an integrated model based on a human-centric view, socio- technical traits, and aging specific constructs to offer an in-depth view of older adults’ acceptance and resistance of technology.

Design: The study integrated Theory of Planned Behavior, Status quo bias, Equity-implementation model and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology2 model to come up with a dual phenomenon conceptual model. Two-phased multi-analytical models were used. The scope of the study included older adults (people aged 65 years or older) in Sri Lanka.

Results: The multiple regression analysis and Model 4 of the PROCESS macro results revealed that human centric, socio technical and aging specific factors significantly influence on elders to use technology; interestedly, human-centric factors negatively influenced. The data is trained and tested using a deep learning approach. The model can performed F-measure of 72.85% for predicting technology acceptance or rejection.

Implications: Understanding personal variables such as human-centric and aging specific that affect the adaptation and resistant process in technology provides valuable information for inventors and social developers in the design and implementation of technology for the elder community.

Originality: The study extended the technology acceptance models based on human-centric perspective, socio-technical characteristics, and aging specific constructs for a more comprehensive understanding of consumer acceptance or resistance of technology.

Perceived Constraints in Adoption of Dry Direct Sown Rice Technology in Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh

P. Venkata Rao, S. Neelaveni, G. Chitti Babu, J. Jagannadham — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Rice is a predominant crop in Srikakulam district vis a vis to Andhra Pradesh. In previous years, farmers were used to go for transplanting method of rice cultivation. Due to labour scarcity, hike in labour wages and high cost of cultivation, farmers are going for dry direct sown rice in Srikakulam district. Out of 2 lakh ha of rice in Srikakulam, 1 lakh ha of area under Direct Sown Rice but yields are not improved and in recent years, the cost of cultivation in this method also escalating. Keeping this in view, an extension study on “Study on Constraints in Dry Direct Sown Rice in Srikakulam District.” has been taken up as a part of SLTP 2022 discussions. Exploratory research design was used for the study. Purposive and Simple random sampling procedure was followed for the study. Two mandals were selected purposefully based on the extent of Direct Sown Rice from each revenue division (3). From each mandal two villages were selected purposively. 5 farmers were selected randomly from each selected village. Thus, the total sample size was 60. An interview schedule was developed and data were collected. Frequency, percentage and Rank Based Quotient was used as statistical tools for analysing data. Results of the study revealed that majority 63.34 per cent farmers had medium knowledge on cultivation of rice in dry direct sown method followed by high (23.33%) and low (13.33%). Nearly half (53.33%) of the farmers had partial adoption and 20 per cent of the selected farmers had full adoption. Selected sample farmers equally (13.33%) had over adoption and non adoption. Constraint analysis depicted that High weed infestation was the first rank constraint(100%),Poor germination due to insufficient/excessive moisture was the 2^nd rank(96.67%), Lack of proper irrigation management was identified by 56 farmers (93.33%) was the 3^rd rank, Incidence of BPH is more prevalent was the 4^th rank (86.67%),Growing of green manure crop is not possible was the 5^th rank(83.33%), Optimum plant population maintenance is difficult was cited by 48 farmers (80%) was the 6^th rank. There is a need of extension efforts to improve the farmers adoption by enhancing the farmers knowledge on timely application of fertilizers and weedicides by organising more no. of training programmes and Front Line Demonstrations. District Officials should play key role in making convergence between Department of Agriculture and Irrigation Department of the district for proper planning of varietal selection and to make the operations for fixing of sowing window which is very crucial in dry direct sown rice.

Economic Analysis of Cost and Profitability of Cashew Cultivation in South Konkan Region of Maharashtra

A. S. Akhare, V. G. Naik, Y. R. Parulekar, V. G. More — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Cashew cultivation plays a vital role in the horticultural economy of Konkan region of Maharashtra and supports rural livelihoods through production, processing, and trade. This study provides a farm-level economic assessment of the cost and profitability of cashew cultivation in South Konkan region of Maharashtra. A multistage sampling framework was employed to select 120 cashew growers from Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts during the agricultural year 2023–24. Primary data were collected through personal interviews using a structured and pre-tested schedule. Cost of cultivation was estimated using Cost-A, Cost-B and Cost-C concept, while economic performance was evaluated through gross returns, net returns and benefit cost ratios. The findings show that the average total cost of cultivation (Cost-C) was ₹98,903 per hectare. Major cost components included the rental value of land, labour expenses and amortization cost associated with orchard establishment. The average yield was 14.76 quintals per hectare, resulting in gross returns of ₹1,76,330 per hectare. The benefit cost ratio over Cost-C was estimated at 1.78, indicating favourable economic returns from cashew cultivation in the region. A district-level comparison suggests that Sindhudurg recorded slightly higher productivity and profitability than Ratnagiri.

Effect of inoculation of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria on Growth, Plant nutrient Content and Yield in Onion (Allium cepa)

R. B. Sonawane, H. M. Patil, R. T. Gaikwad, R. V. Patil — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

An experiment was conducted to study the effect of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria with efficient isolates with graded levels of P₂O₅on onion (Allium cepa L.) during rabi season of 2020-21 at Post Graduate Farm, Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Maharashtra. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with six treatments and four replications. The seedlings inoculation of Pseudomonas+ Azotobacter+ Bacillus + 100% P₂O₅ showed the maximum growth in growth and yield attributing characters of onion such as number of leaves, shoot length, root length, total fresh weight of shoot and root, fresh bulb weight and yield than other treatments. The second best treatment i.e. dual inoculation of Pseudomonas+ Azotobacter + Bacillus but lowered the dose of chemical fertilisers by 25%, resulting in a 75% P₂O₅ application. Application of seedling treatment of PGPR viz., Pseudomonas, Azotobacter and Bacillus spp. along with 75% chemical fertiliser to onion at the time of transplanting for 15 minutes which were at par with 100% chemical fertiliser this means that there is saving of 25% chemical fertiliser dose without any significant reduction in onion crop yield. The application of efficient strains of phosphate solubilizing (PGPR) could reduce ‘P₂O₅’ fertilizer application by 25% without any significant reduction in crop yield.

Beyond the Granary: Evaluating the Efficacy and Economic Viability of Hermetic Storage Bags for Post-Harvest Seed Quality in Smallholder Systems

Martina Shitiri, Ruokuovilie Mezhatsu — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Post-harvest crop loss remains a major challenge for smallholder farmers who rely heavily on stored seeds for future cultivation and household food security. The study evaluates the efficacy and economic viability of the hermetic storage bags compared with conventional woven polypropylene (PP)bags in storing the quality of rice (Oryza sativa) and maize (Zea mays) seeds. A multi-location field demonstration was conducted in Three villages of Nagaland, India-Chedema, Tesophenyu and Jotsoma Village to access the performance of the storage methods under real farming conditions.

The study focused on two key indicators during regular storage period: Physiological weight loss and the percentage of germinable seeds. Results demonstrated that hermetic storage significantly minimized weight loss compared to PP bags. Average weight loss in hermetic bags was1,2% for Rice and 1.8% for Maize, whereas traditional PP bags recorded much higher losses of 12.5% and 15.3% respectively. In addition to reducing physical losses, hermetic storage effectively maintained seed germination Vigor at or above 95% for both crops.in contrast, seeds stored using conventional methods showed a marked decline in viability, with germination rates dropping to nearly 70%.

A cost-benefit analysis was conducted to evaluate the financial feasibility of adopting hermetic storage technology. Although hermetic bags involve higher initial costs, these are reduced by seed damage, lower dependence on purchasing seeds and improved food security. Overall, the findings indicate that hermetic bags is practical and economically viable solution for maintaining seed quality and strengthening resilience within smallholder farming systems.

Communication Apprehension and Skill Gaps in Higher Agricultural Education: A Multi-contextual Analysis

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study examines the relationship between communication apprehension (CA) and communication skill gaps among postgraduate students in higher agricultural education in India. Despite extensive research on communication competencies, limited studies have examined the psychological determinants, particularly communication apprehension, influencing communication skill development. A cross-sectional quantitative research design was employed using the Personal Report of Communication Apprehension-24 (PRCA-24) and a Training Need Index (TNI) to assess communication apprehension and skill gaps among 210 postgraduate students from three leading agricultural institutions. The findings indicate that most students exhibit moderate levels of communication apprehension, with higher anxiety observed in group discussions and interpersonal interactions. Writing and speaking skills emerged as the most critical communication gaps. Regression analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between communication apprehension and communication skill gaps (β = 0.635), suggesting that higher apprehension is associated with greater training needs. Grounded in Communication Apprehension Theory and Social Cognitive Theory, the study highlights the role of psychological factors in shaping communication behaviour. The findings underscore the need for targeted, experiential communication training interventions to enhance communication competence and professional readiness among agricultural graduates.

Economic Impact of Custom Hiring Centres on Farm Mechanization, Productivity and Profitability of Paddy Farmers in Mandya District, Karnataka

M. S. Sreedevi, G. Nagaraja, P. N. Krishnamma, B. M. Spandana — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Farm mechanization plays a vital role in enhancing agricultural productivity, labour efficiency, and profitability. However, small and marginal farmers in India face significant challenges in adopting mechanization due to limited financial resources and fragmented landholdings. To address these constraints, the Government of Karnataka established Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) to provide access to modern farm machinery on a rental basis, thereby promoting inclusive mechanization. The present study was undertaken in Mandya district, a major rice-growing area of Karnataka, to assess the impact of CHCs on the economic performance and mechanization level of farmers. Five CHCs located at Basaralu, Athguru, Akkihebbala, Chinnakurli, and Arakere were selected, and data were collected from 150 paddy-growing farmers, comprising 75 beneficiaries and 75 non-beneficiaries, using a pre-tested interview schedule during the Kharif season of 2023–24. The data were analysed using descriptive statistical techniques, cost–benefit comparisons and gap analyses were used. Results revealed that all farmers (100%) had mechanized at least one major paddy operation, while 92% adopted mechanical transplanting. However, 46.67% still depended on manual harvesting due to machinery shortages. Among CHC beneficiaries, the cost of cultivation decreased by 5.56%, productivity increased by 9.61%, and cost of production declined by 15.78% compared with non-beneficiaries. The incremental cost-benefit ratio (ICBR) of 3.62 indicated strong economic viability of CHC services. Nevertheless, significant gaps were observed in the availability of critical equipment, such as paddy transplanters (75% shortage) and combine harvesters (100% shortage). The findings highlight that CHCs are effective in improving access to mechanization and enhancing farm income, but require strengthened operational capacity, digital booking systems, and adequate machinery inventory for sustained impact.

Modelling Bounded Panel Global Food Insecurity Indicators with Correlated Random Effects

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Food insecurity has become a major issue of concern in different parts of the world, but empirical analysis is frequently limited by the statistical analyses that do not consider the limited and heterogeneous character of prevalence statistics. This investigation seeks to revisit the world patterns in extreme food insecurity through a coherent statistical panel model that focuses on inference and policy application. In particular, the research is aimed at estimating global and country-specific time dynamics, measuring the unobserved heterogeneity and determining the existence of a homogenous global trend once methodological shortcomings in the previous studies are overcome. A beta mixed effects model of correlated random intercepts and slopes was estimated using a fractional response panel model with more than 29,000 observations on a global country-year panel of more than 20 years. The study findings indicate that there is no statistically significant global linear trend of serious food insecurity prevalence (β_year= 0.0029, p = 0.323) in contrast to the findings of previous linear panel studies. Significant between-country heterogeneity was observed, and there was a positive relationship between baseline prevalence and change across time (p = 0.36), which implies country-level heterogeneity through structural differentiation. The suitability of the proposed approach is supported by the model diagnostics and fit statistics (AIC = -33,488.6; BIC = -33,447.6). The novelty of this study is that it combines the statistical assumptions with limited prevalence information and directly models the heterogeneity of countries that are correlated. The research will help in enhancing the empirical basis of food insecurity monitoring in the world, and thereby a more plausible assessment of achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 2, as well as making evidence-based policy to eliminate severe food insecurity in the world.

Effect of Site-Specific Nutrient Management on Physiological Growth Parameters and Nutrient Recovery Efficiency of Transplanted Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Site-specific nutrient management (SSNM) has emerged as an efficient strategy for enhancing nutrient use efficiency and sustaining rice productivity; however, limited information is available on its influence on physiological growth parameters and nutrient recovery efficiency under semi-arid tropical conditions of South India. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted during the Samba season (August–December 2025) at the South Farm, School of Agricultural Sciences, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, South India. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with twelve treatments and three replications, comprising soil test–based nutrient management, recommended fertilizer dose, nutrient omission treatments, farmers’ practice and control. The results revealed that soil test–based nutrient management with zinc application (T₂: 125:50:25 kg N:P₂O₅:K₂O ha⁻¹ + ZnSO₄ @ 18 kg ha⁻¹) recorded significantly higher crop growth rate (CGR) values of 92.3, 167.3 and 205.2 kg ha⁻¹ day⁻¹ during 30–60, 60–90 days after transplanting (DAT) and 90 DAT to harvest, respectively, compared to other treatments. Similarly, relative growth rate (RGR) and net assimilation rate (NAR) were also significantly higher under T₂. Nutrient recovery efficiency was maximized under the same treatment, with nitrogen (40.88 %), phosphorus (24 %), potassium (268.4 %) and zinc (0.85 %), indicating enhanced nutrient uptake and utilization efficiency. The superior performance of SSNM with zinc application may be attributed to balanced nutrient supply based on soil test values, improved synchronization between nutrient availability and crop demand, and enhanced physiological efficiency compared to conventional fertilizer practices. The differences among treatments were statistically significant at p = 0.05, indicating reliable treatment effects despite experimental variability. In contrast, nutrient omission treatments and control recorded significantly lower values. Thereby, this study demonstrates that integration of soil test–based fertilization with zinc application significantly improves physiological growth parameters and nutrient recovery efficiency in transplanted rice, providing a sustainable nutrient management strategy for improving productivity under intensive rice-based systems.

Influence of Chemical Weed Management Strategies on Enhancing Growth and Yield of Quinoa

S. Prasanna Harinii, R. Augustine, K. Sharmili, B. Balaganesh, M. Lokeshwari — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study evaluated the effect of herbicidal treatments on growth components, weed dynamics and yield in quinoa through a pot experiment conducted during the rabi season 2025 at the Instructional North Farm of Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore. The experiment followed a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with twelve treatments and three replications, comparing different pre-emergence herbicides alone and in combination with post-emergence herbicides, along with weed-free check and unweeded control treatments. The results indicated that crop growth attributes varied significantly between treatments at later growth stages. At 30 DAS, the weed-free check (T₁₁) recorded the highest plant height (39.28 cm), which was statistically similar to pretilachlor at 750 g a.i. ha^-1 applied as pre-emergence (T₃) and butachlor (pre-emergence) @ 1000 g a.i. ha^-1 at 3 DAS + Metamifop @ 1000 ml ha^-1 as post-emergence at 25 DAS (T₉). At 60, 90 DAS and at harvest, the weed-free check (T₁₁) consistently recorded superior plant height (95.3, 136.0 and 158.9 cm) and dry matter production (18.9, 27.9 and 36.2 g plant^-1). Among the treatments sequential application of pretilachlor (pre-emergence) @ 750 g a.i. ha^-1 at 3 DAS + halosulfuron-methyl (post-emergence) @ 70 g a.i. ha^-1 at 25 DAS (T₁₀) recorded lower total weed density (2.38, 8.74, and 8.46 nos. pot^-1), total weed dry weight (0.54, 4.86 and 4.19 g pot^-1) and higher weed control efficiency (78.32%, 68.79% and 74.96%) at 15, 30 and 45 DAS, respectively. The weed-free check(T₁₁) produced higher grain (39.5 g plant^-1) and straw yields (45.05 g plant^-1), which were statistically comparable to pretilachlor (pre-emergence) @ 750 g a.i. ha^-1 at 3 DAS + halosulfuron-methyl (post-emergence) @ 70 g a.i. ha^-1 at 25 DAS (T₁₀). In contast, the unweeded control (T₁₂) recorded the highest total weed density and weed dry weight, reduced crop growth and yield due to severe crop-weed competition. This study suggests that the sequential application of pretilachlor followed by halosulfuron-methyl has potential for effective weed management in quinoa under controlled conditions; however, further validation through field experiments is necessary before making broader agronomic recommendations.

Adoption of Kinnow Production Technology in Rajasthan: Insights from National Horticulture Mission

Sanju Meena, Manmeet Kaur, R. Amulya — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The Horticulture sector is an important component of agriculture and plays a significant role in improving the living standard of farmers by increasing their income. In Indian horticulture has become a successful Agro-diversification strategy since the Green Revolution. A wide range variety of fruit crops are grown in the country due to suitable Agro-climatic conditions, among which citrus occupies a major share in terms of area and production after mango and banana. Among citrus fruits, Kinnow is unique because of its high economic value and productivity. Recognizing the importance of horticulture in strengthening Indian agriculture, the Government of India launched the National Horticulture Mission (NHM) in 2005–06 to promote the growth and development of the horticulture sector. Sri Ganganagar district has a sizable area under kinnow cultivation because Rajasthan state has enormous potential for horticultural development. The present study was conducted in the Sri Ganganagar district to assess the extent of adoption of improved kinnow production technologies among growers under the National Horticulture Mission. Out of the nine Panchayat Samitis in the district, three—Sri Ganganagar, Sri Karanpur, and Padampur—were purposively selected based on their relatively higher area and production of kinnow. A total of 180 respondents were selected through proportionate random sampling, comprising 90 beneficiaries and 90 non-beneficiaries. The findings revealed that the majority of farmers exhibited a moderate level of adoption of kinnow production technologies. Furthermore, the extent of adoption was found to be positively associated with factors such as education, social participation, and knowledge. To enhance the rate of adoption, it is imperative to strengthen farmer training at the grassroots level and ensure the timely availability of quality planting materials at affordable prices. Such measures would contribute to improved productivity and support the livelihoods of farmers.

Survey of the Tissue Nutrient Status of Sugarcane Grown on Different Soils in Northern Telangana Zone of Telangana, India

T. Prabhakar Reddy, D. Vijaya Lakshmi, J. Kamalakar, Firdoz Sahana — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The soil and tissue nutrient survey was carried out in 12 blocks representing all the major sugarcane growing soils of the Nizamabad and Kamareddy Districts. As per the critical levels suggested for sugarcane, nearly 80.3, 9.45, 10.02, 25.9, 18.9 and 62.2 per cent of the plant tissue samples are deficient in N, P, K, Cu, Fe and Zn, respectively. Adequate amounts of Mn was noticed in all the sugarcane plant tissues. The data regarding fertility parameters of the sugarcane growing soils nearly 47.24, 91.33, 13.38 and 34.64 per cent of soils are deficient in organic carbon, N, P₂O₅ and Zn respectively. Adequate amounts of K, Cu, Fe and Mn was noticed in all the sugarcane growing soils. Results on nutrient content of soils and plants, it can be confirmed that the nitrogen deficiency in plants is a reflection of its deficiency in soils. But even though, there is no deficiency of potassium in soils its deficiency in plants is up to 10 per cent. Phosphorus is high in soils and the same is also reflected in plants. Regarding micronutrients, the deficiencies of Zn in soils is also reflected in plants also. But copper deficiency was observed in plants, in spite of the soils were sufficient.

Nitrogen Doped Graphene Synthesis and Evaluation of Its Electrical Properties

Swarnabala Jena, Raj Gopal Mishra — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

In the current research, Nitrogen-doped graphene (NGr), is an emergent nanomaterial for energy applications. Graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized using an improved Hummers method. For nitrogen doping a hydrothermal treatment was carried out with urea an ecofriendly material. The synthesized sample was characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transformation Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-Visible Spectroscopy, Raman Spectroscopy, and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). FTIR peaks at 1154cm-1, 1588 cm-1, 3365cm-1 represents the C-N, C=C, N-H stretching vibrations respectively. The results obtained from LCR meter (high Er value of 8000 µS/cm) demonstrate that nitrogen doping effectively enhancing the electrical conductivity and dielectric properties of graphene. The NGr exhibits a significant increase in conductivity with rising temperature and frequency, indicating its potential for use in high-frequency electronic devices, supercapacitors, and fuel cells. This study provides valuable insights into the scalable production and application of nitrogen-doped graphene in next-generation energy and electronic devices.

Epidemiological Profile of Reported Tuberculosis Cases in Santa Quitéria, Ceará, Brazil: A Retrospective Study (2019–2023)

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aims: The study aims to analyze the epidemiological profile of reported tuberculosis cases in the municipality of Santa Quitéria, Ceará, Brazil, considering sociodemographic, clinical, laboratory, and temporal characteristics between 2019 and 2023.

Study Design: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study with a retrospective and quantitative approach.

Place and Duration of Study: Municipality of Santa Quitéria, Ceará, Brazil, using data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), from 2019 to 2023.

Methodology: Secondary data from all reported tuberculosis cases registered in SINAN during the study period were analyzed. Variables included sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, clinical form of the disease, type of case entry, treatment outcome, and laboratory diagnostic tests. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed, and the results were presented in tables and graphs.

Results: A total of 56 tuberculosis cases were reported during the study period, with a higher concentration in the intermediate years analyzed. Most cases occurred in males, adults aged 40–59 years, and individuals self-identified as mixed-race, with a predominance of low educational level. The pulmonary form was the most frequent, and most notifications corresponded to new cases. The cure rate was considered satisfactory; however, gaps were observed in the performance of some diagnostic tests, particularly sputum culture and rapid molecular testing. Tuberculosis was also associated with comorbidities such as alcoholism and HIV infection.

Conclusion: Tuberculosis in Santa Quitéria predominantly affects socially vulnerable populations, particularly adult men with low educational levels. Although treatment outcomes were relatively favorable, limitations in diagnostic practices and the presence of comorbidities highlight the need to strengthen primary health care actions, improve access to laboratory diagnosis, and reinforce public health strategies aimed at tuberculosis control.

Synergizing Nano-Urea and Organic Manure for Enhanced Physiological Efficiency and Productivity in Wheat

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Sustainable nutrient management mitigates soil degradation by synergizing nano-fertilizers, organic amendments, and bio-biological inoculants.

Methods and Materials: A randomized block design field experiment was conducted during the 2024–25 Rabi Winter season at KVK, Ghazipur India, evaluating nine nutrient management strategies on wheat variety DBW^-187. Treatments integrated 100% and 75% recommended doses of fertilizer (RDF) with farmyard manure (FYM; 5 t ha⁻¹), liquid NPK consortia seed treatments, and foliar-applied nano-urea (4% w/v). Rigorous physiological assessments included periodic dry matter accumulation, Leaf Area Index (LAI), and Crop Growth Rate (CGR). Post-harvest elemental analysis quantified nitrogen concentration via the micro-Kjeldahl method to derive physiological efficiency (PE).

Results: Experimental findings revealed a superior performance hierarchy of T₄>T₆>T₅>T₇ > T₉>T₈> T₂>T₃>T₁across all parameters. Treatment T₄ (100% RDF + FYM) achieved peak grain yield ( 6.20 t ha⁻¹), dry matter ( 248.0 g m⁻¹), and LAI ( 3.20 ), closely followed by the nano-urea intervention ( T₆ ). Nano-urea significantly enhanced nitrogen use efficiency, yielding a grain nitrogen content of 1.82 % and a PE of 38.4 . This superiority stems from optimized source-to-sink translocation and sustained metabolic activity during the critical 60–90 DAS interval, where CGR peaked at 25.60 g m⁻² day⁻¹.

Conclusion: Integrating nano-urea with organic manure optimizes physiological efficiency and maximizes wheat productivity through enhanced nutrient assimilation and soil resilience.

Evaluation of Genetic Variation in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. and Triticum durum L.)

Dayanand Bana, S. D. Solanki, Sourabh Kumar, J. M. Patel, H. N. Zala — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Wheat is a globally important staple crop, contributing significantly to food security and human nutrition, particularly in densely populated countries like India. Understanding its genetic diversity is essential for developing improved, high-yielding, and stress-tolerant varieties.

Aims: The present study mainly focuses on diversity analysis in wheat cultivars using SSR molecular markers.

Methodology: The study was conducted in the 2020-21 crop seasons the Agronomy Instructional Farm, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, involving 30 wheat genotypes. The experiment utilized a randomized block design with four replications. Each genotype was sown in a single-row plot, 3.0 m long, with rows spaced 22.5 cm apart and plants within rows 10 cm apart employing standard agronomic practices. Molecular analyses were performed in biotechnology lab at Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, India, located at 24.3°N latitude, 72.3°E longitude, and an elevation of 154.52 meters above mean sea level. For this study, 30 wheat genotypes were evaluated with 30 SSR markers to assess genetic diversity. Genomic DNA was extracted from fresh leaves using the CTAB method.

Results: Most markers showed high polymorphism, with PIC values ranging from 0.23 (WMC-28) to 0.66 (WMC-154), averaging 0.48. Resolving power (RP) varied from 1.00 (WMC-154) to 1.62 (WMC-28), with a mean of 1.29, indicating strong genotype differentiation. Genetic similarity coefficients spanned 0.20 to 1.0, with the lowest similarity between WH711 and HD2733 and the highest between HD2864 and DBW71. Cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into two main clusters, and principal component analysis aligned with genomic and taxonomic classifications. This significant genetic diversity among cultivars provides valuable resources for wheat breeding programs aimed at improving yield and resilience.

Conclusion: These markers are valuable for identifying wheat landraces and could be utilized for cultivar differentiation. In wheat, where other molecular markers often show low polymorphism rates, SSR markers stand out as a robust option. Their high polymorphism makes them an ideal choice for various breeding objectives, enhancing the ability to select diverse genotypes for crop improvement.

Comparative Anatomical, Proximate and Elemental Analyses of the Bark of Three Khaya Species Growing in Nigeria for Medicinal Use

O. A. Oyedapo, I. I. Ogunlowo, F. M. Ojo, S.T. Akinyele — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Phytochemicals are chemical compounds that occur naturally in plants. The efficiency of medicinal plants for therapeutic purposes is often based on their organic constituents such as flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids and essential oils. Three Khaya species found in Nigeria are all from the family Meliaceae, namely Khaya senegalensis (KS), Khaya grandifoliola (KG) and Khaya ivorensis (KI). The three species are being used to treat diseases, among which includes malaria and sickle cell anaemia. All Khaya species are generally referred to as Oganwo by the Yoruba people of Nigeria. As much as being in used the traditional medical practitioners in Nigeria find it difficult to differentiate them because of their phenotypic similarities. There is a need, therefore, to identify differentiating characteristics to aid proper identification during collection and also to determine the putative quantitative and qualitative usefulness of these species in the treatment of diseases, hence this study.

Transverse sections, longitudinal sections, and macerates of stems and root bark were prepared for anatomical features. The proximate and elemental analysis of the bark was carried out using a standard procedure. The three Khaya species bark microscopic study reveals anatomical similarities and distinctive diagnostic means of identification. The cuticle shape and type, epidermal cell shape and cell inclusions show some similarities. The cuticle was striated, the shape of the cuticle ranges from circular, oval, polygonal and cylindrical elongated cells. Sclereids are present and prominent. However, there were characters that seemed to be species specific in the number of outer bark cell layers, cuticle thickness, numerosity of crystal druses, and types of sclereids present in the cell. The presence of stylliod crystal in the cell of Khaya grandifoliola distinguished it from the two-other species. The proximate and elemental analysis shows the presence of nutritive values, essential micro and macro nutrients in the right quality and quantity that support their potency in their use for the treatment of diseases and for classification.