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1 1720505965 Research Biotica October-December (2019) Present Status on Distribution, Biodiversity and Management of Indian Mangroves Aquaculture 16-22

Globally, mangroves are one of the most productive and threatened ecosystems situated within the intertidal zones of tropics and subtropics. Mangrove ecosystem of India is unique with the highest record of biodiversity, gifted with the mangrove genetic bliss at Bhitarkanika, and wildlife threatened species in the Sundarbans. They act as a guardian of juvenile stock and important source of livelihood for coastal communities and protect from storm surges and tsunami. Mangroves are also a great source for carbon sinks and sequester the high amount of CO2. Mangrove ecosystems are vulnerable to various anthropogenic actions such as industry, agriculture, solid waste dumping, aquaculture ponds, construction of buildings and infrastructures. In recent years, the conservation of mangrove reserves and habitats has assumed great significance in developing countries. This article deals with the present status of mangroves biodiversity, conservation and management strategies for restoration of these fragile ecosystems.

Anthropogenic, Biodiversity, Mangrove, Restoration, Threatened https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.1.1.2019.16-22 2019-12-26 Review Articles Udai Ram Gurjar, Suman Takar, Khemraj Bunkar, Vikas Pathak and Jaspreet Singh

Udai Ram Gurjar*

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Suman Takar

Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Khemraj Bunkar

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Vikas Pathak

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Jaspreet Singh

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

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2 1720678366 Plant Health Archives Roles of Hormone in Crop Production Agriculture 01-02

The crop production of our country has increased manifold since the sixties by using improved agricultural technology like seeds, fertilizers, agricultural pesticides. At present, special importance is given to gene-technology, hybrid seeds and tissue culture, etc. for crop production. There is a limit to crop production through the use of agricultural technology. Increasing food production for a changing population is a difficult question for today's world. To cope up with such emerging problems use of hormones in crop production are showing very good results.

Gene-technology, Hormones, Hybrid seeds, Tissue culture https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.1.2023/01-02 2023-04-09 General Articles Joy Kumar Dey, Airdeep Debbarma and Shatabhisa Sarkar

Joy Kumar Dey*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra-Sepahijala, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Latiacherra, Sepahijala, Tripura (799 103), India

Airdeep Debbarma

Krishi Vigyan Kendra-Sepahijala, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Latiacherra, Sepahijala, Tripura (799 103), India

Shatabhisa Sarkar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra-Sepahijala, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Latiacherra, Sepahijala, Tripura (799 103), India

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3 1720679752 Plant Health Archives Climate Smart Weed Management Practices Plant Pathology 03-04

Climate changes are rapidly occurring due to anthropogenic activities. Human activities contribute to global warming by increasing greenhouse gases which are the main factors of extreme climate change. This change increases competition between weeds and crops. Most troublesome weeds are responsive to grow with increasing CO2 gas then crop. Also, high atmospheric temperature helps to reduce uptake of herbicide due to more diffusion and rapidly dry droplets. There is an inevitable need to study how changing climate conditions are affecting crop-weed competition, weed life and herbicide effectiveness in order to create adaptation and mitigation plans for changing climatic scenario. The overall objective of this article is to portray smart weed management approaches under climate change scenario resulting high productivity of crops and more returns for farmers alongwith an effective maintenance of the weeds.

Climate smart, Management, Weed, Weed control https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.1.2023/03-04 2023-04-20 General Articles Suhrid Teli, Abhijit Saha and Bobilan Debbarma

Suhrid Teli*

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

Abhijit Saha

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

Bobilan Debbarma

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

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4 1720680196 Plant Health Archives UAV Technology for Precision Weed Detection and Management Plant Pathology 08-10

In India population increases rapidly day-by-day, therefore food demand also increases. Traditional farming is insufficient to meet these demands. Thus, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones) were introduced, enabling Weed Management in less time, efficient use of herbicide and pesticide to bring sustainability to the environment and their resources. One of the most detrimental biotic variables in agriculture, weeds significantly reduces yields across the globe. Weed patches from crop fields can be identified by using drone sensors. Drone camera sensors can optimize weed in relation to leaf density, chlorophyll concentration and other plant canopy characteristics. The article emphasizes weed detection and management by the use of potential sensors of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones) technology for better agriculture output.

Sensors, UAVs, Weeds detection, Weed management https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.1.2023/08-10 2023-05-10 General Articles Bobilan Debbarma, Abhijit Saha and Suhrid Teli

Bobilan Debbarma*

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

Abhijit Saha

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

Suhrid Teli

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

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5 1720680374 Plant Health Archives Bacillus thuringiensis in Pest Management Plant Pathology 11-13

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a widely employed pest management biocontrol agent in the agriculture and forestry ecosystem. In nature, this gram-positive bacterium is found in soil that produces spore-crystal inclusion bodies. This gram-positive bacterium produces a broad spectrum of insecticidal proteins, which are found to be extremely toxic to different groups of insect pests. Bt toxin genes are very selective and specific to pests; they are not toxic to other than the target organisms such as human, animals, and birds, and they are safer for the environment. The Bt toxin is often employed in organic farming as an insecticide spray to manage insect pests. Additionally, it is one of the sources for the insecticidal genes deployed to genetically modify food crops so that they can naturally impart resistance against numerous insect pests.

Bacillus thuringiensis, Biopesticides, Cry toxin, Transgenic https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.1.2023/11-13 2023-05-18 General Articles Gothandaraman Rajadurai, Selvaraj Anandakumar and Rajasekaran Raghu

Gothandaraman Rajadurai*

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, CPMB&B, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Selvaraj Anandakumar

Dept. of Crop Physiology, CCM, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Rajasekaran Raghu

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, CPMB&B, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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6 1720680954 Plant Health Archives July-September (2023) Study on Diversity of Fungus Associated with Nephila pilipes Plant Pathology 14-17

The fungus has various type of association with spider. They can be pathogenic or symbiotic or commensal in relationship to spiders they live on. In the current study the diversity of fungi in association with Nephila pilipes spider were recorded. The fungi were isolated from its legs and saliva. The microscopic and macroscopic characters were obtained. The measurements of hyphae, conidia and conidiophore were recorded. The fungal growth was more on legs compared to saliva. The legs of the adult spider carried more fungi than saliva as they are associated with soil, carrying microflora on their legs. Further the four different fungus isolated as Aspergillus, Penicillium, Trichoderma and Cladosporium. The penicillium colony had abundant growth, aspergillus had moderate growth and Cladosporium had less growth compared to Trichoderma.

Biodiversity, Conidia, Conidiophore, Fungi, Hyphae, Nephila pilipes https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.2.2023/14-17 2023-07-05 Research Articles Jalajakshi, S., Anagha, J., Buwaneshwari, S., Kalpana, R., Poojitha, P.L. and Sowmya Murthy

Jalajakshi, S.*

Dept. of Genetics, Vijaya College, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 004), India

Anagha, J.

Dept. of Genetics, Vijaya College, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 004), India

Buwaneshwari, S.

Dept. of Genetics, Vijaya College, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 004), India

Kalpana, R.

Dept. of Genetics, Vijaya College, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 004), India

Poojitha, P.L.

Dept. of Genetics, Vijaya College, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 004), India

Sowmya Murthy

Dept. of Genetics, Vijaya College, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 004), India

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7 1721131222 Plant Health Archives July-September (2023) Development of Low Cost Artificial Diet for Mass Production of Entomopathogenic Nematode, Heterorhabditis indica a Strain ICRI EPN-18 Plant Pathology 34-36

Eight different diets were compared for maximum production of entomopathogenic nematode infected Galleria cadavers with cheaper/ low cost in the laboratory. Among eight artificial diet composition tried, low grade milk powder 100 g, low grade glycerin 100 ml, honey 100 ml, corn flour 200 g, wheat bran 100 g, wheat flour 100 g and yeast 50 g produced almost maximum Galleria larvae with EPN infected cadavers and EPN infective juveniles (IJs) with cheaper cost while, the diet containing, ragi powder 100 g instead of milk powder, honey 100 ml, high grade glycerin 100 ml, corn flour 200 g, wheat bran 100 g, wheat flour 100 g and yeast 50 g produced least number of EPN infected Galleria cadavers and EPN IJs. Among the diet compositions, sugar solution 100 ml instead of honey along with other ingredients used, did not emerge or produce larvae from the Galleria eggs.

Artificial diet, Elettaria cardamomum, Entomopathogenic nematode, Small cardamom https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.2.2023/34-36 2023-08-07 Research Articles P. Thiyagarajan, M. Varna, M.A. Ansar Ali and A.B. Rema Shree

P. Thiyagarajan*

Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Spices Board India, Myladumpara, Idukki, Kerala (685 553), India

M. Varna

Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Spices Board India, Myladumpara, Idukki, Kerala (685 553), India

M.A. Ansar Ali

Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Spices Board India, Myladumpara, Idukki, Kerala (685 553), India

A.B. Rema Shree

Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Spices Board India, Myladumpara, Idukki, Kerala (685 553), India

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8 1721197957 Plant Health Archives July-September (2023) Morphometry of Mouthparts of Eri Silkworm, Samia cynthia ricini Boisduval under Different Food Regimes Agriculture 42-47

Eri silkworm, Samia cynthia ricini Boisduval is polyphagous feeding on several plant species. The influence of feed on growth of an animal is evident from literature. Eri larva has biting and chewing type of mouthparts comprising of a pair of mandibles, Labrum and the labio-maxillary complex. The size of these mouthparts increases with larval age. In an experiment conducted to study the influence of host on morphometric changes in mouthparts of Eri silkworm, the local castor variety with greenish petiole found to have significant influence on the length and width of mandibles (0.0803 and 0.0675 cm, respectively), labrum (0.0543 and 0.0735 cm, respectively) and labio-maxillary complex (0.1007 and 0.1145 cm, respectively). Further, there was a sudden increase in the size of mouthparts during fourth instar (85 × 67% gain in mandibles, 95 × 73% gains in LMC and 124 × 58% gain in labrum) irrespective of the host.

Eri silkworm, Host plant, Morphometry, Mouthparts, Samia cynthia ricini https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.2.2023/42-47 2023-08-24 Research Articles Vinoda, K.S., Narayanaswamy, K.C., Shashidhar, K.S. and Reddy, D.N.R.

Vinoda K.S.*

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chintamani, Karnataka (563 125), India

Narayanaswamy K.C.

Dept. of Sericulture, GKVK, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 065), India

Shashidhar K.S.

AICRP-MULLARP, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur (795 004), India

Reddy D.N.R.

Dept. of Sericulture, GKVK, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 065), India

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9 1721199221 Plant Health Archives July-September (2023) Arthropod Biodiversity of Citrus Ecosystem with Special Reference to Citrus Leaf Miner Agriculture 48-54

The citrus leaf miner (CLM), scientifically known as Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton and belonging to the Gracillaridae family, is a significant nuisance for citrus nurseries and the tender leaves of young citrus plants. Damage caused by the larvae is conspicuous especially on the young foliage during initial phase of development and the management of the pest is highly critical. The present studies were carried out at ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute, Nagpur during 2013 to 2015 to document the species composition of bioagents (parasitoids and predators), their incidence levels and species richness/ diversity in citrus ecosystems with reference to citrus leaf miner. During the study, we documented individuals from two classes, four orders and six families of insects. Class Insecta was dominant followed by Arachnida. Among the six families, Eulophidae and Coccinellidae were the most dominant bioagent groups for parasitoid and predator, respectively. Relative abundance of the bioagents of P. citrella revealed that C. phyllocnistoides was the predominant one and constituted 30% of total bioagents collected followed by Cirrospilus sp. (including C. quadristriatus, C. ingenuus) (25%), E. brevicornis (15%) and S. striatipes (9%). Coccinellids constituted about 3%; whereas, chrysopid predator, M. desjardinsi and spider species constituted 13% and 7%, respectively of the total bioagent collection. Understanding of the bioagent complex in citrus ecosystem will help us to identify the promising ones for biological control as well as guide us the bioagent active frame to avoid pesticide sprays to sustain them naturally in the ecosystem.

Arthropod biodiversity, Bioagents, Citrus ecosystem, Citrus leaf miner, Species composition https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.2.2023/48-54 2023-08-31 Research Articles Anjitha George

Anjitha George*

ICAR-Indian Institute of Seed Science, Regional Station, GKVK Campus, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

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10 1721199883 Plant Health Archives July-September (2023) Diversity and Abundance of Insect Pollinators of Cucurbits at Mid-Hills of Meghalaya, India Agriculture 55-60

The current research was carried out at the ICAR-Research Complex for the North Eastern Hill Region (NEH) in Umiam, Meghalaya to investigate the diversity and abundance of insect pollinators of cucurbits at mid-hills of Meghalaya. Ridge gourd, sponge guard, pumpkin, teasel gourd, chow-chow, bottle guard and cucumber were taken as a target crop to observe the data on diversity and abundance. Total twenty-five (25) pollinators were observed in different cucurbits belongs to order Hymenoptera, Diptera and Lepidoptera which represents that mid-hills of Meghalaya have rich pollinator fauna. Out of 25 insect pollinators 3 pollinators identified from ridge gourd, 6 from sponge gourd, 4 from pumpkin, 3 from bottle gourd, 4 from cucumber, 3 from chow-chow and 2 from teasel gourd. Efficient pollinator was nominated on the basis of their abundance. During investigation it was found that bumble bee emerged as the most abundant pollinator in ridge gourd, pumpkin and sponge gourd. In sponge gourd carpenter bee also showed almost equal abundance. Indian honey bee abundance was high in cucumber and in chow-chow. Among collected pollinators, hymenopterans were the abundant with 80% relative abundance. It is clear from the recorded observation that native bees are equally contributing in pollination service so conservation of these bees is also a demand of nature. Activity time period of pollinators on flowers guided the farmers to avoid pesticide spray during particular time period.

Abundance, Diversity, Honey Bee, Native Bee, Pollination https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.2.2023/55-60 2023-09-11 Research Articles Rachna Pande and V.K. Verma

Rachna Pande*

Division of Crop Protection, ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Nagpur, Maharashtra (441 108), India

V.K. Verma

Division of Horticulture, ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umroi Road, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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11 1721200281 Plant Health Archives July-September (2023) Quantitative Estimation of Amylase Activity in Selected Larval Mutants of Silkworm Bombyx mori L. Reared on Two Mulberry Varieties Agriculture 61-65

Four larval mutants namely Knobbed, Zebra, pere and Ursa of the silkworm, Bombyx mori L. were selected for the present investigation. The digestive juice and haemolymph were collected from fifth instar larvae (day 1 to day 6) and the samples were subjected to spectrophotometric analysis for estimation of amylase activity. The recorded O.D. values (at 525 nm) were converted into maltose released (µmoles ml-1). The results of the present study clearly indicate that the amylase activity gets enhanced with the increase in number of feedings along with the advancement of age during 5th instar larval stage (day 1 to 6). Based on the results obtained, Zebra performed better followed by Knobbed than the other two larval mutants under study. The larvae fed with V1 variety performed better than those batches fed with S36 variety of mulberry in both the samples. Of the two samples, amylase activity recorded higher in digestive juice than haemolymph in all the four larval mutants under study.

Digestive juice, Haemolymph, Mulberry, Mutant silkworm, S36, V1 https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.2.2023/61-65 2023-09-19 Research Articles M. Devamani and R.S. Umakanth

M. Devamani

Dept. of Studies in Sericulture Science, University of Mysore, Manasagangothri, Mysuru, Karnataka (570 006), India

R.S. Umakanth*

Dept. of Studies in Sericulture Science, University of Mysore, Manasagangothri, Mysuru, Karnataka (570 006), India

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12 1721200723 Plant Health Archives July-September (2023) Nano-Agrochemicals: Risk Assessment and Management Strategies Nanotechnology 66-72

Application of nanotechnology in agriculture especially in the form of nano agrochemicals is increasing nowadays. Agrochemicals such as fertilizers, soil amendments, soil conditioners, pesticides and plant growth promoting hormones have both pros and cons. To overcome the constraints of conventional agrochemicals researchers are focusing on nano agrochemicals. Apart from the high potential and effectiveness these chemicals also have some threats to the human health, environment and ecological balances. With proper assessment of risks associated to these nano agrochemicals threats can be minimised and the potential of nanotechnology in agriculture can be explored to the greater extent. After assessment the risks could be managed by applying three thumb rules as risk prevention, risk mitigation and risk communication. In depth research is required to explore the potential of nanotechnology in agriculture.

Environment, Human health, Nano-Agrochemical, Nano Material, Threats https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.2.2023/66-72 2023-09-28 Review Articles Mahendra Prasad and Sonu Kumar Mahawer

Mahendra Prasad

Crop Production Division, ICAR-Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh (284 003), India

Sonu Kumar Mahawer*

Crop Production Division, ICAR-Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh (284 003), India

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13 1721457750 Plant Health Archives Partial Resistance Components and Morphological Traits Aid Selection of Resistant Wheat Genotypes against Spot Blotch Agriculture 82-95

Spot blotch caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana results substantial yield losses (15-80%) in an Indian subcontinent. Wheat varietal improvement through breeding followed by evaluation of elite germplasms against a particular disease is crucial method to manage diseases. Fifty diverse wheat genotypes and two susceptible checks viz., Sonalika and Nepal 297 were evaluated under artificial epiphytotic condition against spot blotch at NWRP, Bhairahawa, Nepal in 2017-18 and 2018-19. Evaluation was based on partial resistance components viz., lesion sizes, lesion types (chlorotic/ necrotic), lesion characteristics (sporulating/ non-sporulating) and area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) and morphological traits viz. lesion mimic, leaf angle, leaf tip necrosis and plant height. Statistical analysis revealed that genotypes with smaller lesion size (<1 cm), small dark brown to black lesions with or without chlorosis/ necrosis and non sporulating lesions had lower AUDPC (<225). Similarly genotypes with erect to semi erect leaf (leaf angle 1-2), medium to high leaf tip necrosis (2-4), low percentage of lesion mimic (0-22.5%) were found resistant (AUDPC<225) to moderately resistant (AUDPC value 226-315). Moreover AUDPC showed strong and positive correlation with lesion sizes (0.76), lesion types (0.84) and lesion characteristics (0.54). Twenty genotypes were found resistant (AUDPC<225), could be used as new resistance sources in breeding program. However genotypes viz., KACHU/BECARD//WBLL1*2/BRAMBLING/3/ATTILA*2/PBW65//MURGA, FRET2*2/SHAMA//TNMU/3/FRET2*2/SHAMA/4/UP2338*2/KKTS*2//YANAC/5/FRET2*2/SHAMA//PARUS/3/FRET2*2/KUKUNA, KACHU#1//PI610750/SASIA/3/KACHU/4/MUU#1//PBW343*2/KUKUNA/3/MUU/5/KACHU#1//PI610750/SASIA/3/KACHU, BORL14//KFA/2*KACHU and KFA/2*KACHU//QUELEA were found excellent based on partial resistance components and morphological traits. These genotypes could be further evaluated for yield potential in multi environment and better performing genotypes could be released as resistant varieties for spot blotch.

Evaluation, Genotypes, Morphological traits, Partial resistance components, Spot blotch https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.3.2023/82-95 2023-10-16 Research Articles Shiwarttan Kumar Gupt, Khem Raj Pant and Roshan Basnet

Shiwarttan Kumar Gupt*

National Wheat Research Program (NWRP), Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), Bhairahawa, Rupandehi (32900), Nepal

Khem Raj Pant

National Wheat Research Program (NWRP), Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), Bhairahawa, Rupandehi (32900), Nepal

Roshan Basnet

National Wheat Research Program (NWRP), Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), Bhairahawa, Rupandehi (32900), Nepal

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14 1721458595 Plant Health Archives Bioefficacy and Phytotoxicity of Clothianindin 50 WDG against Thrips and Mealybugs in Grapevine Agriculture 102-108

Two separate experiments were conducted in the field to examine the effectiveness of clothianidin 50 WDG against thrips and mealybugs that were infesting grapevines. The findings highlighted that applying clothianidin 50 WDG @ 1000 g ha-1 proved highly efficient in curbing the population of the sucking pests, outperforming lower doses of the compound. Following two rounds of soil drenching spaced 14 days apart, there was an average reduction of 76.63% for thrips and 78.09% for mealybugs. Other concentrations of clothianidin 50 WDG (600, 500 and 400 g ha-1) demonstrated significant reductions in the populations of thrips and mealybugs, exhibiting a similar level of efficacy as the standard check (Methomyl 40 SP and Buprofezin 25 SC) in all field experiments. Notably, no signs of harm to the grapevine were observed at any of the tested doses. Clothianidin 50 WDG @ 1000 g ha-1 resulted in the highest grape yield, producing 14.25 and 8.94 kg vine-1 at Madhampatti and Kalampalayam, respectively. Throughout the clothianidin 50 WDG treatment plots, the presence of natural enemies was noted and their activity remained unaffected, indicating no adverse impact on the natural enemy population.

Bioefficacy, Clothianidin, Mealybug, Phytotoxicity, Thrips https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.3.2023/102-108 2023-10-31 Research Articles S. Sumaiya Parveen

S. Sumaiya Parveen*

Dept. of Agriculture, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

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15 1721459079 Plant Health Archives Influence of Abiotic Factors on Trap Catch of Gram Pod Borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) in Redgram, Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp. Ecosystem Agriculture 109-114

An experiment was conducted to study the influence of weather parameters on trap catches of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) in redgram Cajanus cajan (L.) ecosystem during kharif 2017 at experimental farm of NPRC, Vamban and farmer’s field at Vadakaddu with green colour funnel pheromone traps containing Heli lure. The highest catch (98 moths/ 5 traps) was recorded on January 2nd SMW at Vamban and on 52nd SMW of December at Vadakaddu. In both the locations lowest catch of 20 moths/ 5 traps and 30 moths/ 5 traps were recorded on 35th SMW. The moth catches had highly significant negative correlation with maximum temperature (r = -0.79**), (r = -0.79**), minimum temperature (r = -0.66**), (r = -0.68**), wind speed (r = -0.71**), (r = -0.73**), rainfall (r = -0.54**), (r = -0.51**), rainy days (r = - 0.54**), (r = -0.52**) and sunshine hours (r = - 0.44**), (r = -0.42**) at Vamban and Vadakaddu, respectively. But there was highly significant positive correlation with relative humidity (r = 0.78**) and (r = 0.76**) at Vamban and Vadakaddu, respectively. The regression analysis resulted with an R2 value of 0.791, which indicates that 79.1% catches depends on all the weather parameters at Vamban and R2 value of 0.829 indicating that 82.9% of catches depends on all the weather parameters at Vadakaddu.

Gram Pod Borer, H. armigera, Redgram, Trap catches, Weather parameters https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.3.2023/109-114 2023-11-15 Research Articles S. Lekha Priyanka, V.R. Saminathan, N. Manivannan, V. Ambethgar and U. Pirithiraj

S. Lekha Priyanka*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V.R. Saminathan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

N. Manivannan

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V. Ambethgar

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Trichy, Tamil Nadu (620 009), India

U. Pirithiraj

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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16 1721460242 Plant Health Archives Diversity of Platygastroidea Species in Coffee Ecosystem at Thadiyankudisai, Tamil Nadu Horticulture 119-122

During a one-year study from January, 2018 to January, 2019 at the Horticultural Research Station, Thadiyankudisai, Tamil Nadu, a combined count of 550 individuals of Platygastroidea species were documented under two family platygastridae (1 species) and scelionidae (9 species). Among the species diversity comprised of Telenomus sp. (52.0%) followed by Scelio sp. (11.4%), Calliscelio sp. (9.1%), Sparasion sp. (6.9%), Idris sp. (5.8%) and Baryconus sp. (4.0%). The least population was recorded in Tritelia sp. (2.2%). Researches on seasonal abundance exposed that the winter season exhibited the highest species population at 32.55%, with the South West Monsoon (SWM) following closely at 30.36%, while the North East Monsoon (NEM) period recorded the lowest species count at 16.54%. The prevalence of insect pests poses a significant challenge to achieving optimal yields in horticultural crops. Consequently, the examination of Platygastroidea species diversity assumes a pivotal role in the success of biological control strategies.

Coffee, Diversity indices, Platygastroidae, Scelionidae, Seasonal abundance https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.3.2023/119-122 2023-11-30 Research Articles K.R. Manikandan, M. Muthuswami, N. Chitra and M. Ananthan

K.R. Manikandan*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Muthuswami

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

N. Chitra

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Ananthan

Directorate of Open and Distance Learning, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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17 1721462743 Plant Health Archives Evaluation of Post-Harvest Microbial Deterioration of Ripe Banana Fruits in Different Markets Agriculture 01-06

This study intends to evaluate the influence of microflora in various types of banana fruits on moisture content and health risks related to bacterial growth at different fruit ages. Over four weeks, 120 banana fruit samples were gathered from three marketplaces in Kano State, Nigeria and dissected for pH, moisture content and microbiota. These three samples were then dissected to perform tests on pH, moisture content and microbiota. Some were subject to a moisture content that ranged from 77.22% to 80.29% and the samples' pH values ranged from 4.60 to 5.10. The fungal counts displayed a range spanning from 1.40×106 to 3.30×106 cfu ml-1, while the bacterial counts exhibited a broader spectrum, fluctuating between 3.80×106 and 7.30×106 cfu ml-1. The bacteria identified in the samples were Proteus vulgaris, Bacillus sp., Xanthomonas campestris, Corynebacterium xerosis, Pseudomonas sp., Erwinia carotovora, Dickeya parasidiaca and Ralstonia solanacearum. The fungal isolates included Aspergillus niger, Fusarium sp., Alternaria sp., Mucor sp., Cordana johnsonii, Chrysonilia sp., Cladosporium sp., Doratomyces microspores, Rhizopus stolonifer and Colletotrichum musae. Fungi and bacteria detected in these samples prove their significant contribution causing the deterioration after harvest. This results in post-harvest diseases which consequently lead to the decline in the fruit's quantity and quality. Apart from the diminished commercial value of this kind of fruit, it can also pose chemical dregs, a health hazard to human beings. The knowledge gained from this research may facilitate the development of strategies for controlling banana fruit spoilage, resulting in improved product quality before consumption.

Bacteria, Banana, Deterioration, Fungi, Post-harvest, Spoilage https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.1.2024/01-06 2024-02-12 Research Articles Mustapha Abdulsalam, Olaitan Lateefat Salam, Maimuna Sidi Muhammad, Sarah Natour, Maryam Murtala Garba and Suleiman Fatima Annu

Mustapha Abdulsalam*

Dept. of Microbiology, Skyline University Nigeria, Kano (700103), Nigeria

Olaitan Lateefat Salam

Dept. of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg (PMB 100), Sweden

Maimuna Sidi Muhammad

Dept. of Microbiology, Skyline University Nigeria, Kano (700103), Nigeria

Sarah Natour

Dept. of Microbiology, Skyline University Nigeria, Kano (700103), Nigeria

Maryam Murtala Garba

Dept. of Microbiology, Skyline University Nigeria, Kano (700103), Nigeria

Suleiman Fatima Annu

Dept. of Microbiology, Skyline University Nigeria, Kano (700103), Nigeria

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18 1721463869 Plant Health Archives Study on the Distribution of Olfactory Antennal Sensilla of Sitophilus zeamais Motsch (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and their Response to Some Botanical Extracts Agriculture 13-17

The repellency potential of Euphorbia balsamifera Aiton, Lawsonia inermis L. and Mitracarpus hirtus (L.) DC against Sitophilus zeamais was assessed at 30±2 °C and 70±5% R.H. The botanicals were applied as chloroform extracts at the rate of 6.25, 12.50, 25.00, 50.00 and 100.00 mg ml-1 per 20 g sorghum grains. Percent repellency of the botanicals against S. zeamais was taken at 1 and 24 hour after exposure (HAE). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was conducted for examination and identification of olfactory antennal sensilla of the weevil. This was enhanced by the aforementioned repellency test with antennal distal flagellomere of the weevils excised. The SEM showed that sensilla chaetica (SC), sensilla trichoidea (ST) and sensilla basiconica (SB) were the types of antennal sensilla of S. zeamais identified. Results from repellency tests conducted revealed that ST and SB were the olfactory sensilla located on the last distal flagellomere of the weevils. It was also found that the botanicals had promising repellent activity against S. zeamais and might be used in the protection of stored sorghum grains.

Botanicals, Odour detection, Olfactory sensilla, Repellency, Sitophilus zeamais https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.1.2024/13-17 2024-03-10 Research Articles Suleiman, M., Halliru, M., Sani, I., Yusuf, M.A. and Abdullahi, K.B.

Suleiman, M.*

Dept. of Biology, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina (PMB 2218), Nigeria

Halliru, M.

Dept. of Biology, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina (PMB 2218), Nigeria

Sani, I.

Dept. of Biology, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina (PMB 2218), Nigeria

Yusuf, M.A.

Dept. of Biology, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina (PMB 2218), Nigeria

Abdullahi, K.B.

Dept. of Biology, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina (PMB 2218), Nigeria

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19 1721464770 Plant Health Archives Synergic Effects of Salinity and Rhizoctonia solani (Kuhn) Infection on Growth and Yield Attributes of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Agriculture 18-25

Salinity stress and Rhizoctonia solani pose significant threats to global rice production; however, their interactive effects on rice plants remain underexplored. This study aimed to determine the combined effects of different salt (NaCl) levels and R. solani (Kuhn) infection on selected growth and yield attributes of O. sativa. Faro44, Faro52 and Jamila rice varieties were subjected to varying NaCl concentrations and R. solani infection under screen house conditions, utilizing a Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD) and Two-Way ANOVA was employed for data analysis. The results revealed that higher NaCl concentrations and R. solani infection retarded plant height, with the number of tillers and leaves being significantly affected. The lowest mean values occurred at a salinity level of 8 dS m-1; whereas highest values occurred at 4 dS m-1 and 6 dS m-1. The 100 seed weight varied depending on the NaCl concentration, with the lowest seed weight observed at 8 dS m-1 and 6 dS m-1 in Faro44 and the highest seed weight observed at 4 dS m-1. The grain length was found to be at its minimum when exposed to 8 dS m-1, while grain diameter exhibited its smallest size at 8 dS m-1 of salt levels. Variations in NaCl concentrations significantly influenced the number of panicles and length of panicles (NP and LP), and number of grains panicle-1. The lowest values were recorded at 8 dS m-1, whereas the highest values were observed at 0 dS m-1 and 2 dS m-1. The study found that, in rice plants infected by R. solani, growth and yield are further diminished under saline conditions, emphasizing the complex interaction between abiotic and biotic stressors in rice.

Growth, Rice, Salinity, Sheath Blight, Yield https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.1.2024/18-25 2024-03-18 Research Articles Mustapha, T., Kutama, A.S., Auyo, M.I. and Dangora, I.I.

Mustapha, T.*

Dept. of Plant Biology, Federal University, Dutse (PMB 7156), Nigeria

Kutama, A.S.

Dept. of Plant Biology, Federal University, Dutse (PMB 7156), Nigeria

Auyo, M.I.

Dept. of Plant Biology, Federal University, Dutse (PMB 7156), Nigeria

Dangora, I.I.

Dept. of Plant Biology, Federal University, Dutse (PMB 7156), Nigeria

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20 1721465378 Plant Health Archives A Review on Cytomorphological, Medicinal, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Potential of Common Weed of Wheat Crop of Himachal Pradesh: Fumaria parviflora Agriculture 26-30

Fumaria parviflora, commonly known as "small-flowered fumitory," is a ubiquitous weed found in various regions across the globe. Despite being considered a nuisance in farming areas, the plant possesses numerous therapeutic benefits acknowledged in conventional medical systems. Its extracts have shown promise in treating digestive disorders, respiratory ailments and skin conditions due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Efforts to harness its medicinal potential could lead to the development of innovative treatments while addressing concerns related to its invasive nature. This review aims to gather and evaluate the body of research on the medicinal, phytochemical and pharmacological attributes of Fumaria parviflora. Phytochemical analyses have revealed the presence of diverse bioactive compounds in F. parviflora, including alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids and essential oils. These phytoconstituents exhibit various biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective and anticancer effects. Despite the considerable therapeutic potential demonstrated by F. parviflora, further research is necessary to elucidate its action mechanisms, pharmacokinetics and safety profiles. Moreover, clinical trials are required to validate the effectiveness and security of F. parviflora-based human interventions. Harnessing the medicinal potential of natural products holds significant promise for the development of novel therapeutic agents across various ailments. Natural products, derived from plants, marine organisms, fungi and microorganisms, have been a rich source of pharmacologically active compounds for centuries. These compounds often possess unique chemical structures and biological activities that make them valuable candidates for drug discovery and development.

Antioxidant, Bioactive compounds, Fumaria parviflora, Phytochemical, Pharmacological https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.1.2024/26-30 2024-03-30 Review Articles Nitesh Kumar, Ruchika Devi, Pratibha, Satish Kumar, Saurav, Mamta Singh Pathania and Anita Kumari

Nitesh Kumar

Dept. of Biosciences, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (171 005), India

Ruchika Devi*

Dept. of Biosciences, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (171 005), India

Pratibha

Dept. of Biosciences, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (171 005), India

Satish Kumar

Dept. of Biosciences, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (171 005), India

Saurav

Dept. of Biosciences, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (171 005), India

Mamta Singh Pathania

Shoolini Institute of Life Sciences and Business Management, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 212), India

Anita Kumari

Dept. of Botany, G.B. Pant Memorial Govt. College, Rampur Bushahr, Himachal Pradesh (172 001), India

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21 1721474413 Plant Health Archives Phytocoenology Study of Weeds of Rice Crop with Edaphic Variation: An Analysis from Jhargram, West Bengal, India Agriculture 31-36

Under edaphic fluctuation, the current study explains the phytosociological characteristics and weed distribution patterns in transplanted rice crops. Present work was done in Jhargram block, West Bengal, during kharif season 2022 and 2023. For every weed species, analytical quantitative characters were determined, such as relative density, relative dominance and important value index. There were 15 (6 grassy, 6 BLWs, 3 sedge), 14 (4 grassy,6 BLWs, 4 sedge), 16 (5 grassy, 8 BLWs, 3 sedge) and 11 (3 grassy, 5 BLWs, 3 sedge) weeds species found in Jhargram, Binpur I and Binpur II and Nayagram block of Jhargram district, respectively. Observation showed that, the relative density of single plant species at Jhargram Block, Cynodon dactylon was the predominant grassy weed; however, relative density of BLWs (Broad Leaved Weeds) and sedges, more seen with Euphorbia hirta, Amaranthus spinosus and Cyperus sp., respectively. Importance Value Index (IVI) more reported with Cynodon dactylon for grasses, Ludwigia parviflora and Euphorbia hirta for BLWs and Cyperus difformis for sedges. In Binpur I, Cynodon dactylon for grasses, Ludwigia parviflora for BLWs and Cyperus rotundus for sedges, were the predominant weed species with highest IVI. In Binpur II, block, more IVI found with Paspalum scorbiculatum for grasses, Euphorbia hirta and Ludwigia parviflora for BLWs and Cyperus rotundus for sedges. In Nayagram, block, relative abundance was observed more with Echinochloa colona, Hydrolea zeylanica and Cyperus rotundus for grasses, BLWs and sedges, respectively. More number of BLWs was observed throughout the observation followed by grasses in case of Jhargram, Binpur I and sedges in Binpur II and Nayagram block. This baseline information become very imperative for future research as well as for farming community to choose right kind of competitive crops and cropping pattern in the red-latertic zone.

Density, IVI, Phytocoenology, Rice, Weeds https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.2.2024/31-36 2024-04-28 Research Articles Dhiman Mukherjee, Golam Moinuddin and Subhendu Jash

Dhiman Mukherjee*

Regional Research Station (Red & Laterite Zone), Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Jhargram, West Bengal (721 507), India

Golam Moinuddin

Regional Research Station (Red & Laterite Zone), Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Jhargram, West Bengal (721 507), India

Subhendu Jash

Regional Research Station (Red & Laterite Zone), Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Jhargram, West Bengal (721 507), India

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22 1721474774 Plant Health Archives From Trash to Treasure: The Prospect of Producing Bioethanol from Wastepaper through Pretreatment with Sulphuric Acid Agriculture 37-40

Bioethanol is a prospective alternative to nonrenewable energy sources and this study aimed to produce bioethanol from waste paper using a pre-treatment technique. Freshly fermented palm wine was analyzed using standard microbiological techniques to identify the microorganisms used in the study. The pre-treatment process utilized sulphuric acid and sodium hydroxide at varying concentrations (5%, 10%, 25%, 40% and 50%). The substrates had glucose concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 0.9 ppm and the peak yield was recorded at 10% sulphuric acid pretreatment. Bioethanol was produced through fractional distillation and sugar fermentation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The viability of bioethanol production using waste paper has been demonstrated as a sustainable method of waste management and a potential solution to energy shortages, particularly in developing countries.

Bioethanol, Pre-treatment, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Sulphuric acid, Waste paper https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.2.2024/37-40 2024-05-12 Research Articles Mustapha Abdulsalam, Suleiman Muhammed Mustapha, Ajibade Abdulbasit Bolaji and Ganiyat Omotayo Ibrahim

Mustapha Abdulsalam*

Dept. of Microbiology, Skyline University Nigeria, Kano (700 103), Nigeria

Suleiman Muhammed Mustapha

Dept. of Biological Sciences, Summit University, Offa, Kwara (PMB 4412), Nigeria

Ajibade Abdulbasit Bolaji

Dept. of Microbiology, University of Ilorin, Ilorin (PMB 1515), Nigeria

Ganiyat Omotayo Ibrahim

Dept. of Chemistry, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham (NG14 BY), England (UK)

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23 1721475178 Plant Health Archives Influence of Macro- and Micro-Fertilizers on Silkworm Economic Parameters Agriculture 41-47

An intensive research was carried out during 2018-2022 at the Regional Sericultural Research Station, Salem, Tamil Nadu. The research focused on assessing the significance of micronutrients and their effects on the growth, moisture content, yield parameters and nutrient composition of mulberry leaves. The combined results indicated that treatments T2 and T3 exhibited higher larval weight, shell weight, rendita and denier, with values of 42.90 g, 0.42 g, 6.14 kg and 2.33 d, respectively. Treatment T5 also showed promising results, with larval weight of 42 g, shell weight of 0.38 g, rendita of 6.2 kg and denier of 2.65 d. In terms of single cocoon weight, treatment T3 had the highest value of 1.88 g, closely followed by T2 with 1.86 g. Regarding shell ratio and silk filament length, T2 exhibited higher values (22.58% and 1103 m) compared to T3 (22.55% and 1099 m). Among the five crops studied, the fourth crop demonstrated the best results when treated with T2 and T3. These treatments resulted in higher larval weight (51.37 g and 51.6 g), cocoon weight (2.2 g and 2.3 g), shell weight (0.56 g and 0.55 g), shell ratio (25% and 24.67%), pupal weight (1.65 g and 1.71 g), silk filament length (1416 m and 1412 m), rendita (6 kg) and denier (2.46 d and 2.79 d) respectively.

Inorganic fertilizers, Panchagavya, Poshan, Silkworm, V1 mulberry variety https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.2.2024/41-47 2024-05-30 Research Articles Devamani M., Dahira Beevi N. and Mohan A.

M. Devamani*

Centre for Higher Studies in Botany and Sericulture (Periyar University), Vaikkalpattarai, Salem, Tamil Nadu (636 017), India

N. Dahira Beevi

Centre for Higher Studies in Botany and Sericulture (Periyar University), Vaikkalpattarai, Salem, Tamil Nadu (636 017), India

A. Mohan

Kandaswami Kandar's College, Velur, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu (638 182), India

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24 1721646781 Research Biotica Evaluation of Pheromone Traps for the Management of Pod Borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) in Redgram [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] Ecosystem Agriculture 08-10

The present study entitled “Evaluation of pheromone traps for the management of pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) in Redgram [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] ecosystem” was carried out to study the influence of trap height on catches of H. armigera in redgram ecosystem during kharif 2017 at experimental farm of NPRC, Vamban and farmer’s field at Vadakaddu. Funnel traps were more effective compared to delta traps and green funnel traps placed at a height of one feet below the crop canopy (95.4 moths / 5 traps) and at the level of crop canopy (94.8 moths / 5 traps) performed well compared to traps placed at two feet below the crop canopy (73 moths / 5 traps), one feet above the crop canopy (59 moths / 5 traps) and two feet above the crop canopy (55 moths / 5 traps).

Funnel trap, Helicoverpa armigera, Management, Moth catches https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.2.1.2020.08-10 2020-03-20 Research Articles S. Lekha Priyanka, V.R. Saminathan, S. Sithanantham, V. Ambethgar and N. Manivannan

S. Lekha Priyanka*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, ADAC&RI, TNAU, Trichy, Tamil Nadu (620 009), India

V. R. Saminathan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, NPRC, TNAU, Vamban, Tamil Nadu (622 303), India

S. Sithanantham

Sun Agro Bio–Tech Research Center, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 116), India

V. Ambethgar

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, JSACAT, TNAU, Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu (606 108), India

N. Manivannan

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, NPRC, TNAU, Vamban, Tamil Nadu (622 303), India

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25 1721647669 Research Biotica Fertility Assessment of Soil and Suitable Amelioration for Sustainable Quality Mulberry Leaf and Cocoon Production in Karnataka Sericulture 15-19

The composite soil samples received from the various cluster sericulture farmer mulberry gardens (2067) of Karnataka state were subjected for their physical and chemical analysis for measuring their nutrient status. It was noticed that 52% soils characterised as clay loamy, 28% red loamy, 12% black cotton and only 8% soils were red lateritic in nature. Soil pH was recorded in the range of 6.10-7.96 with 7.03 average pH. Among them 59% soils comprised with desired pH (6.5 to 7.5%), 21% with high pH (>7.5) and 20% recorded with low pH (<6.5). Soluble salt content (EC) of the mulberry soils ranged from 0.11 to 0.90 with a mean value of 0.69 dS m-1. All most all the soils of the state (99%) recorded with desired levels of EC (<1.0 dS m-2) indicating ideal for mulberry. Organic Carbon (OC) was ranged from 0.12-1.06 with a mean value of 0.64%. Out of the soils 74% recorded with low OC (<0.65%) followed by 24% desired (0.65-1.0%) and 2% in rich OC (>1.0%) indicating that soils received were deficient in OC. The macronutrients (N, P & K) presence and distribution revealed that, available Nitrogen (N) registered in 116.4-349.8 with 212.3 kg ha-1 average content. Similarly 76% soils registered with low level of available nitrogen (<250 kg ha-1), 23% in medium (250-500 kg ha-1) whereas 1% with high N (>500 kg ha-1). Phosphorous (P) in the range of 3.69-103.9 with an average value of 30.1 kg ha-1. However the distribution of available P is in the ratio of 36:34:30 of high (P>25 kg ha-1), low (P<15 kg ha-1) and desired levels of P (15-25 kg ha-1), respectively. Potassium (K) content was ranged in 181.7-905.4 with a mean value of 521.7 kg ha-1. The K distribution was high (>240 kg ha-1) in 42% soils followed by 40% in desired level (120-240 kg ha-1) and 18% soils recorded with lower quantities of available K (<120 kg ha-1). The micronutrients such as available Sulphur (S) and Boron (B) present in the range of 10.50-117.30 and 0.08-2.87 with a mean value of 63.90 & 1.48 ppm ha-1, respectively. Sulphur distribution was noticed that 71% soils registered rich in S (>15 ppm), 21% medium (10-15 ppm ha-1) and 15% soils represent deprived levels of S (<10 ppm). Boron was found medium level (0.5-1.0 ppm ha-1) in 48% soils followed by 30% with low level B (<0.5 ppm ha-1) and 22% soils with high amount of B (>1.0 ppm ha-1). Based on the above findings suitable soil amelioration prescriptions were served in the form of ‘Soil Health Cards’ for correcting their mulberry gardens to minimise the cost of production thereby achieving quality mulberry leaf production for the development of Bivoltine sericulture.

Leaf production, Mulberry, Organic carbon, Soil analysis, Soil fertility https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.2.1.2020.15-19 2020-03-22 Research Articles P. Sudhakar, V. Sobhana, M.R. Swamy Gowda, Sibayan Sen, M.V. Sneha and V. Sivaprasad

P. Sudhakar*

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board (CSB), Ananthapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 001), India

V. Sobhana

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Mysuru, Karnataka (570 008), India

M.R. Swamy Gowda

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board, Kodathi, Bangaluru, Karnataka (560 035), India

Sibayan Sen

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Mysuru, Karnataka (570 008), India

M.V. Sneha

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Mysuru, Karnataka (570 008), India

V. Sivaprasad

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Mysuru, Karnataka (570 008), India

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26 1721712912 Research Biotica Okara: A Low-Cost Adsorbent for Textile Waste Water Treatment Agriculture 26-29

We are living in the era of expeditiously increasing population and industrialization and water is used in almost all industrial sectors such as food, pharmaceutical, metallurgy, chemical, textile industry and leather industry etc. which produces different kind of effluent. There are several methods used for removing pollutants from wastewater, among them the adsorption method is best as it removes diverse species of pollutants. Textile effluent is one of the major problems for aquatic as well as human life, contains several kinds of dyes, chemicals & hazardous substances that needs to be removed before further use. If the effluent is discharged into the environment without any treatment process, it will cause serious issues related to environmental as well human health. In various waste water treatment plants that are used for treating wastewater through adsorption, cellulosic, lignin based carbon materials, chemically or biologically activated carbonaceous of different biomass origin are used as adsorbent. This paper reviews the possibility of Okara (soyabean milk waste), being a cellulosic biomass and shows some adsorption capacity, as a low-cost adsorbent for treatment of the waste water generated from the textile industries.

Adsorption, Okara, Soyabean, Waste water treatment https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.2.2.2020.26-29 2020-05-29 Review Articles Sarthak Saxena and Sumit Rai

Sarthak Saxena

Division of Biological Sciences and Engineering, Netaji Subhas University of Technology, Delhi (110 078), India

Sumit Rai*

Centre for Environmental Assessment and Climate Change, G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora, Uttarakhand (263 643), India

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27 1721713421 Research Biotica Climate Change Impact on Hydrologic System in Aji River Basin Agriculture 30-39

The CCAM (GFDL) RCM simulated daily maximum/minimum temperature and rainfall data for the base line period (1970-2005) and future scenario (2006-2070) for the IPCC SRES rcp 4.5 for 4 grid points (50km×50km) falling in Aji basin were bias corrected using Probability Distribution Mapping adopting Gaussian and Gamma distribution respectively. The warming trend of annual average of daily minimum and maximum temperature from 1970-2005 to 2006-2070 was found increased from 0.027°C year-1 to 0.04°C year-1 and 0.027°C year-1 to 0.025°C year-1 respectively. The rainfall, runoff and groundwater recharge in the basin were found in statistically stable trend in Aji basin. The best probability distribution was used for estimating each water balance component. The crop water requirements during winter, summer and monsoon season may increase/decrease by the tune of 6.4%, -0.3% and 1.5% during winter, summer and monsoon season respectively in the future as compared to the past, due to climate change impacts. The monsoon seasonal rainfall will be decreased in the future due to climate change impacts. However, the extreme rainfall (100 year return period) event will be increased in the future by the tune of 39%. Similarly, the runoff will be decreased in the future but the extreme event (100 year return period) of runoff will be increased by the tune of 87.5%. The extremity (100 year return period) in the crop evapotranspiration and ground water recharge may be decreased by -5.7% and -5.8% respectively.

Aji basin, Climate change, Groundwater, Hydrologic system, Water resources https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.2.2.2020.30-39 2020-06-03 Research Articles Prasang H. Rank, P.B. Vekariya and H.D. Rank

Prasang H. Rank*

College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

P.B. Vekariya

College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

H.D. Rank

College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

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28 1721714898 Research Biotica Field Evaluation of Different Insecticides against Blister Beetle, Mylabris pustulata (Thunberg) on Pigeon Pea Agriculture 40-43

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif, 2018 to evaluate the efficacy of different insecticides against blister beetle, Mylabris pustulata (Thunberg) in pigeon pea. Among the seven treatments tested, Flubendiamide 480SC @ 30 g a.i ha-1 was found to be effective and recorded 2.67 and 3.56 numbers plant-1, respectively at 3 and 7 DAT after first spray followed by the treatment Indoxacarb 15.8SC @ 73 g a.i ha-1 which recorded 2.78 and 3.56 numbers plant-1. The third treatment proved to be effective was Deltamethrin 2.8EC @ 12.5 g a.i ha-1 with the population of 3.22 and 3.78 numbers plant-1. The similar trend of efficacy was noticed even after the second spray also. The order of efficacy of treatments in the population reduction of blister beetles was Flubendiamide 480SC @ 30 g a.i ha-1 > indoxacarb 15.8SC @ 73 g a.i ha-1 > Deltamethrin 2.8EC @ 12.5 g a.i ha-1 > Cypermethrin 25EC @ 25 g a.i ha-1 > Lambda cyhalothrin 5EC @ 25 g a.i ha-1 > NSKE 5%. As that of results on the efficacy of insecticides, the reduction per cent in the blister beetle population also follows the similar trend of different treatments tested. This effectiveness also reflected in the highest grain yield of 1140.20 kg ha-1 in Flubendiamide 480SC @ 30 g a.i ha-1 with a yield increase of 36.47% over untreated check. This was followed by indoxacarb 15.8SC @ 73 g a.i ha-1 (1102.3 kg ha-1) > Deltamethrin 2.8EC @ 12.5 g a.i ha-1 (1072.0 kg ha-1) > Cypermethrin 25EC @ 25 g a.i ha-1 (996.4 kg ha-1) > Lambda cyhalothrin 5EC @ 25 g a.i ha-1 (991.7 kg ha-1) > NSKE 5% (951.70 kg ha-1).

Blister beetle, Field efficacy, Newer insecticides and Synthetic pyrethroids https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.2.2.2020.40-43 2020-06-07 Research Articles P. Thilagam, D. Dinakaran and A. Gopikrishnan

P. Thilagam*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Agricultural Research Station, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India

D. Dinakaran

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Agricultural Research Station, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India

A. Gopikrishnan

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Agricultural Research Station, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India

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29 1721715252 Research Biotica Biowaste Utilisation for Improving Soil Health and Crop Productivity in North Eastern India Agriculture 44-49

Efficient utilisation of bio-wastes could be an important strategy for meeting the growing demand of nutrients and improving the soil health and crop productivity in north-eastern India, where there is abundant availability of bio-wastes (such as crop residues, weed biomass, forest litter, animal dung etc.), and use of chemical fertilisers is traditionally minimal. Production of weed biomass in north-eastern India is estimated to be in the range of 5-20 t ha-1. Around 9 Mt of crop residues are produced annually in the region. Considering even half of these residues to be available and 40% loss of nutrients contained therein, the potentially available crop residues can add up to 10,000 tonnes of N, 2,000 tonnes of P2O5 and 35,000 tonnes of K2O to soil. Around 15 Mt of animals’ dung produced annually can also supply substantial amount of nutrients. Additionally, these bio-wastes can improve soil organic carbon, moisture retention capacity, buffering capacity and many other desirable attributes of soil quality. These bio-wastes can also be utilised for production of quality organic manure in a short period of 50-80 days using earthworms and cellulose decomposing microorganisms, either alone or in combination. On the whole, efficient utilisation of the available bio-wastes has great potential to improve the soil health and crop productivity, and therefore needs to be promoted on priority basis. This will also help in mitigating the likely impacts of climate change on soil health and crop productivity in north eastern India.

Acid soil, Bio-waste, Climate change, Crop residue, Organic manure, Soil health https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.2.2.2020.44-49 2020-06-10 Research Articles Manoj Kumar, D.J. Rajkhowa, Kaberi Mahanta, B.C. Verma, B.U. Choudhury, K.K. Rao, Kirti Saurabh and Rajiv Rakshit

Manoj Kumar*

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, RCM, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

D.J. Rajkhowa

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Nagaland (797 106), India

Kaberi Mahanta

Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

B.C. Verma

Central Rainfed Upland Rice Research Station (ICAR NRRI), Hazaribagh, Jharkhand (825 301), India

B.U. Choudhury

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

K.K. Rao

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Kirti Saurabh

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Rajiv Rakshit

Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur, Bihar (813 210), India

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30 1721812022 Research Biotica Organic Vegetable Production Agriculture 50-54

Organic farming is one of the broad spectrum methods of production that ensures environmental safety and restricts the synthetic input use. They are the key component for sustainable agriculture. Vegetables are the vital source in Indian Diet for nutrition. But, in recent decades the use of chemicals had created problem to both human and environment. Thus a need arises to go back for organic farming. The primary goal of the organic vegetable production is to optimize health and productivity of the interdependent communities of plant, soil, people and animals. Organic vegetable production for its quality generates a higher income to the farmers. Varied climatic conditions in India and wide soil types had created a huge scope for organic vegetable production to a greater extend. This article details the organic vegetable production.

Farming, Organic, Production, Vegetable https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.2.2.2020.50-54 2020-06-12 Review Articles T. Ilakiya, E. Parameswari, V. Davamani and G. Yazhini

T. Ilakiya*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V. Davamani

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

G. Yazhini

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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31 1721813789 Research Biotica Efficacy of Sunflower Oil in Modulating Rumen Functions and Reducing Enteric Methane Production in Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Agriculture 61-64

Enteric methane emission from ruminant livestock reduces the efficiency of feed energy utilization and contributes to global warming. An experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of sunflower (SFL) oil supplementation on methanogenesis, volatile fatty acids composition and feed fermentation pattern by in vitro gas production (IVGP) test. SFL oil was examined at three concentrations (0, 0.4 and 0.8 ml/ 30 ml buffered rumen fluid). In vitro incubation was carried out with sorghum hay (200 ± 5 mg) as substrate in 100 ml calibrated glass syringes following standard IVGP protocol. Addition of SFL oil resulted in increase (p < 0.05) in total gas production and decrease (p < 0.05) in methane concentration in head space gas, irrespective of level of inclusion. Linear decrease (p < 0.001) in feed degradability was evident with increasing doses of oil. Acetate production decreased (p < 0.05) without affecting propionate, however, butyrate production increased (p < 0.05) with addition of oil, irrespective of doses. The ratio of acetate to propionate was reduced (p < 0.01) with addition of oils. It is concluded that sunflower oil supplementation exerted inhibitory effects on methane production; however, dry matter degradability was also reduced. Further studies need to be carried out with lower dose levels for their practical application in animal feeding practices.

Buffalo, Fatty acids, Methanogenesis, Rumen fermentation, Sunflower oil https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.2.2.2020.61-64 2020-06-14 Research Articles Avijit Dey, S.S. Paul, P.C. Lailer and S.S. Dahiya

Avijit Dey*

Division of Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, Haryana (125 001), India

S.S. Paul

Division of Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, Haryana (125 001), India

P.C. Lailer

Division of Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, Haryana (125 001), India

S.S. Dahiya

Division of Animal Nutrition and Feed Technology, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, Haryana (125 001), India

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32 1721815135 Research Biotica Furfural Synthesis from Maize Cob Using Co-Solvents Agriculture 75-79

Biofuels and chemicals can be produced from the lignocellulosic biomass would be promising platform in the upcoming decades. The maize cob is selected as lignocellulosic biomass to synthesis chemicals. The maize cob treated with meagre concentration of dilute sulfuric acid (H2SO4) dehydrated with Tetrahydrofuran (THF) co-solvent and water in the ratio of 1:1 results with furfural formation. The maize cob sample acid catalysed dehydration process at 1, 2.5, 5 and 10% dilute H2SO4 is substantial for sugar compounds production, these compounds can be further fermented to produce liquid fuels viz., bioethanol, biobutanol in an efficient manner. The  maize cob treated with 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75% of dilute H2SO4 dehydrated with THF co-solvent and water (1:1) results with furfural formation and highest concentration was found in 0.5% acid catalyzed. The furfurals obtained can be downstream processed to recover and can be used as fuel precursor.

Bioethanol, Biobutanol, Furfural, Maize cob, THF, Zea mays L. https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.2.2.2020.75-79 2020-06-24 Short Communication Sriramajayam, S., J. Gitanjali and K. Chandrakumar

Sriramajayam, S.*

Dept. of Renewable Energy Engineering, Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

J. Gitanjali

Dept. of Renewable Energy Engineering, Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

K. Chandrakumar

Dept. of Renewable Energy Engineering, Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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33 1721815880 Research Biotica Grain Discolouration: An Emerging Threat to Rice Crop Agriculture 80-87

Rice crop is threatened by more than 50 diseases which may appear at any growth stage of the plants. Grain discolouration is an emerging disease of paddy, reported from different countries of the world and is gradually becoming a serious problem. Out of numerous reasons for grain discolouration, association of microbes is important one. It affects the qualitative and quantitative traits such as germination ability, seed health, seed quality, seed morphology and ultimately it results into yield penalty. It is a complex disease exhibiting various symptoms depending on season, locality, variety and pathogens involved. To mitigate this serious malady, precise identification of pathogen is necessary. An integrated management strategy involving better utilization of genetic resources, use of improved agricultural practices, seed treatment with chemicals or biological agents are need to be under taken to manage this malady.

Grain discolouration, Integrated management, Rice diseases, Seed borne disease https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.2.2.2020.80-87 2020-06-29 Review Articles B. Khamari

B. Khamari*

Institute of Agricultural Science, Siksha-o-Anusandhan (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 008), India

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34 1721884745 Biotica Research Today Metarhizium anisopliae: An Ecofriendly Mycoinsecticide Agriculture 01–03

India has an agrarian economy. It needs an improved and newer group of biopesticides as the continuous use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has resulted in pests outbreak and increased environmental pollution. In order to maintain sustainability and food security, an ecofriendly and sustainable strategy like use of natural enemies and microbes for managing these insects-pests is highly envisaged. Metarrhizum anisopliae (green muscardine fungus) have found effective in controlling these insect pests. Due to its mycoinsecticidal properties and easy applicability, various agricultural crops can be benefitted.

Crops, Pests, Sustainable NIL 2019-01-12 Popular Article Charul Verma and Sushil Kashyap

Charul Verma*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Dr. YSP University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Sushil Kashyap

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Bastar, Chattisgarh (494 005), India

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35 1721885827 Biotica Research Today Water Quality Status of Selected Springs in Mohal Khad Watershed of Kullu District Agriculture 04–07

Springs have historically been considered as a lifeline for urban and rural population living in hilly region for domestic and agricultural needs. Niti Aayog reported that there are 5 million springs across India, of which nearly 3 million are in the IHR alone. In recent times, it is observed that drying up or decline in spring discharge is more frequent due to anthropogenic activities and changing climatic regime. In addition to quantity issues, spring water quality was also reported to be declining due to anthropogenic development in spring recharge areas and therefore spring water needs to be treated before using for domestic purposes. Considering the magnitude of problem, spring conservation and management programme is on national agenda. In present study, we touched upon the spring water quality issue, where status of physico-chemical properties of 16 spring sources of Mohal khad watershed were studied.

Anthropogenic activity, Climatic regime, Himalaya, Springs, Water quality NIL 2019-12-20 Popular Article Vaibhav E. Gosavi and Rajat

Vaibhav E. Gosavi*

G. B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment and Sustainable Development, Himachal Regional Centre, Mohal - Kullu, Himachal Pradesh (175 126), India

Rajat

G. B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment and Sustainable Development, Himachal Regional Centre, Mohal - Kullu, Himachal Pradesh (175 126), India

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36 1721887449 Biotica Research Today Impact of Low Light Stress on Rice Yield and Productivity Agriculture 08–09

With the increase in global warming the occurrence of overcast, rainy sky and low light intensity has become a prevalent problem. It is now known that low light stress affects every aspect of vegetative growth (plant height, tiller number, root growth, stoma regulation and chlorophyll development), photosynthesis, dry matter accumulation and partition, and yield and quality of rice. The best approach to overcome this kind of problem is to bred for cultivars with low light intensity tolerance. Thus, it is imperative to understand the underlying mechanism for screening low light intensity tolerant cultivars.

Global warming, Low Yield, Productivity NIL 2019-12-19 Popular Article Prajjal Dey, Selukash Parida, Joy Kumar Dey and Darshan Panda

Prajjal Dey*

Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Selukash Parida

Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Joy Kumar Dey

Institute of agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal (731236), India

Darshan Panda

ICAR-National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, Odisha (753 006), India

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37 1721888688 Biotica Research Today Zn Biofortification and Importance of Zn Agriculture 10–11

Zinc (Zn) deficiency is a well-documented problem in food crops, causing decreased crop yields, nutritional quality. It has been estimated that about 50 per cent of cereal cultivated soils of India are deficient in zinc to support high crop yields. There is a synergistic effect between applied zinc in rice because Zn is very dependent on the size of plant available Zn pools in soil, in most parts of cereal growing areas, soils have less availability of Zn to plant roots. Till-date, the focus was on balanced application of N, P, K. But of late, it has been realized that deficiency of many secondary and micronutrients can also further limit the productivity of the many field crops. In India, first reported zinc deficiency in lowland rice.  Thereafter, it has recognized as a wide spread and important nutritional problem throughout the rice- growing world. Zn plays role in synthesis of plant growth substances and enzyme systems and is essential for promoting certain metabolic reactions. It is necessary for production of chlorophyll and carbohydrates. Zinc deficiency affects stem elongation, auxin activities and protein synthesis.

Bio-chemical, Malnutrition, Micro-nutrient, ZUE NIL 2019-12-24 Popular Article Jhutan Debnath, Joy Kumar Dey and Prajjal Dey

Jhutan Debnath

Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya , Pundibari, Cooch Behar, West Bengal (736 165), India

Joy Kumar Dey*

Institute of agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal (731 236), India

Prajjal Dey

Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha (751 003), India

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38 1721889763 Biotica Research Today People Going Berserk over “Himalayan Viagra- an Entomopathogenic Fungus” Agriculture 12–13

Nature holds various cryptic wonders in itself. Discovery of Yarsagumbais such an example, which has positively affected livelihood of thousands in the regions where it is found and also its beneficiaries. Popularly known ‘Himalayan Viagra’ claims to have solutions for various medical problems. With increase in demand and hence price, we are seeing distressed situation among people in these localities. Cases of robbery, murder are becoming usual and overharvesting of the fungus has posed ecological threats. Despite its ancient importance, there are less scientific studies. Hence, it is the high time to take such initiative to know the nature of fungus and caterpillar association for its mass production in-vitro or in-vivo, thus curbing the gold rush and ecological threats.

Entomopathogen, Ecological threats, Fungus, Himalayan Viagra NIL 2019-12-25 Popular Article Ankesh Kumar Sharma, Gyaneshwar Jha and Prajjal Dey

Ankesh Kumar Sharma*

B.A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat (388 110), India

Gyaneshwar Jha

B.A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat (388 110), India

Prajjal Dey

Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha (751 003), India

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39 1721899976 Biotica Research Today Silk Milk - An Ecofriendly and Innovative Method of Farming for Value Addition to Sericulture Agriculture 01-03

Animal husbandry combined with several agricultural farming proved to be beneficial and economically viable venture. Similarly, mulberry (Morus alba L.) a perennial plant is cultivated as seasonal plant synchronizing 5 harvests in a year exclusively cultivated for feeding silkworm (Bombyx mori L.). A total of 60-70 MT of leaf or more than 100 MT of biomass will be harvested annually from one hectare of mulberry garden and used for silkworm rearing. Almost 50% of the harvested biomass will be leftover as waste during the process of harvesting mulberry shoots and feeding of silkworm. Further, after the harvest of mulberry garden around 25-30% of the thin branches and leftover unsuitable mulberry biomass will remain in the garden. All these waste mulberry material is most suitable for the cattle and sheep feeding. On interaction with farmers have expressed the increase of milk yield to a tune of twofold compared to the weed gracing cattle. In the present study an attempt was made to study the impact of feeding the leftover mulberry biomass to the animal husbandry among the sericulture farmers.

Animal husbandry, Mulberry cultivation, Silkworm rearing NIL 2020-11-09 Popular Article P. Sudhakar, B. Vijaya Naidu, K.P. Kiran Kumar and Pankaj Tewary

P. Sudhakar*

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board (CSB), Ananthapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 001) India

B. Vijaya Naidu

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board (CSB), Ananthapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 001) India

K.P. Kiran Kumar

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board (CSB), Ananthapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 001) India

Pankaj Tewary

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute (CSRTI), CSB, Mysore, Karnataka (570 008), India

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40 1721903849 Biotica Research Today Superior Usability of Rice Bran: In Search of the Best out of Waste! Agriculture 11-12

Bran is a milling byproduct of rice. Rice bran is underutilized due to lipolytic enzyme mediated rancidity and its subsequent associated nutritional loss. Bran layer can serve as a source of novel lipolytic enzymes (lipase, esterase, lipoxygenase) which can be purified in order to exploit its catalytic property for industrial application and value addition to the underutilized rice bran layer. To do so traditional bran stabilization has to be avoided in order to safeguard both the nutritional properties and novel lipolytic enzymes. Instead of using bran as only cattle feed or consumable oil extraction, proteomics analysis can be performed to explore the superior usability of enzyme mediated commercial product development which can also serve as an alternative to microbial lipolytic enzymes.

Bran, Lipolytic enzyme, Nutritional loss, Proteomics NIL 2020-01-28 Popular Article Udit Nandan Mishra and Ranjan Kandali

Udit Nandan Mishra*

Dept. of Biochemistry and Agricultural Chemistry, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

Ranjan Kandali

Dept. of Biochemistry and Agricultural Chemistry, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

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41 1721904535 Biotica Research Today Shifting Cultivation in Tripura Agriculture 13-14

As millions of indigenous people are dependent on shifting cultivation practice, with majority households for subsistence living. In Tripura more than 10 percent of tribal families are dependent on Jhum cultivation for their livelihood. Jhum cultivation practice have some positive and negative effect. In jhum cultivation, Burning and slashing method is followed to control of weeds, soil-borne pathogens and other diseases of crops in those areas.

Livelihood, Shifting cultivation, Soil health, Tripura NIL 2020-01-29 Popular Article Gayatri Deb, Bichitra Debbarma, Pradip Kumar Das and Soma Deb

Gayatri Deb*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Dhalai, Tripura (799 278), India

Bichitra Debbarma

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Dhalai, Tripura (799 278), India

Pradip Kumar Das

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Dhalai, Tripura (799 278), India

Soma Deb

Palli Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati, West Bengal (731 204), India

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42 1721920421 Biotica Research Today Application of Path Analysis in Agricultural Research Agriculture 18-20

Path analysis is a form of multiple regression-statistical analysis used to evaluate causal models by examining the relationships between a dependent variable and two or more independent variables.Using this method, one can estimate both the magnitude and significance of causal connections between variables. In statistics, path analysis is used to describe the directed dependencies among a set of variables. This includes models equivalent to any form of multiple regression analysis, factor analysis, canonical correlation analysis, discriminant analysis, as well as more general families of models in the multivariate analysis of variance and covariance analyses (MANOVA, ANOVA, ANCOVA).

Multiple regression analysis, Multivariate analysis, Path Analysis NIL 2020-02-18 Popular Article Subrat K. Mahapatra, Abhiram Dash and Jayashankar Pradhan

Subrat K. Mahapatra*

College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Abhiram Dash

College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Jayashankar Pradhan

IRRI-OUAT Collaborative Research Project,OUAT,Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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43 1721922114 Biotica Research Today Organic Soil Nutrient Practices in Sikkim and Impact at Field Level for Tribal Farmers’: A Success Story Agriculture 24-26

Farmers of Sikkim generally don’t know how the soil health can be improved. This study was conducted during the period of 2014-19. After distributing the inputs under Tribal Sub Plan (ICAR-TSP) project to tribal farmers in Sikkim the impact assessment was carried out. It was found that application of recommended dose of all the soil inputs increased nutrient use efficiency upto 8.7-12.4%, CEC upto 19.4-27.2%, soil organic carbon 2.4-5.1%, soil pH 18.5-32.3%, and crop productivity upto 18.6-27.4% along with increases in grain yields upto 10.5-14.7% in major crops of Sikkim (maize, rice, mustard, soybean, pulses). The net income (excluding cost of production) of the maize growing farmers were increased 57% (Rs. 37,000 to 58,090); rice growing farmers increased 37% (Rs. 25,000 to 34,250); pulses and oilseed growing farmers were increase 62% (Rs. 45,000 to 72,900) after adopting the use of different organic soil inputs.

Biochar, Farmer, Organic, Soil NIL 2020-02-20 Success story Shaon Kumar Das, R.K. Avasthe, H. Kalita, Ashish Yadav and R. Gopi

Shaon Kumar Das*

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India

R.K. Avasthe

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India

H. Kalita

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India

Ashish Yadav

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India

R. Gopi

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India

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44 1721988814 Innovative Farming January-March (2020) Review on Clupisoma garua (Hamilton, 1822), an Inhabitant Species in Inland Open Waters of India Agriculture 25-29

Clupisoma garua (Hamilton, 1822) commonly known as ‘garuabachcha’ under the order Siluriformes and family Schilbeidae, a potamodromous species, demersal habitat and found both fresh as well as brackish water. The species is mainly distributed in Asian countries like Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Nepal and found mainly large freshwater bodies. The species are categorized as Least Concern (LC) by IUCN but kept as Vulnerable (Vu) category by the CAMP and CAFF reports. It is anomini-carnivore species and feeds on insects, molluscs, crustaceans and small fishes in wild conditions. The species have both food and ornamental values and the medium-size individual also treated as game fish in India. Through the species is said to be widely distributed but threatened in some localities like southern West Bengal, due to overfishing andanthropogenic activities.In the present review, we have tried to give detail information of ‘garuabachcha’, which will be useful to know the species, its potential importance and suitable conservation measures may carry out accordingly.

Biological information, Clupisoma garua, Conservation NIL 2020-02-28 Review Articles Dibakar Bhakta and Sonia

Dibakar Bhakta*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Center, B-12, Hans Society, Harney Road, Vadodara-390 022, Gujarat, INDIA

Sonia

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Center, B-12, Hans Society, Harney Road, Vadodara-390 022, Gujarat, INDIA

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45 1721989039 Innovative Farming January-March (2020) Enhancing Groundnut Productivity through Integrated Nutrient Management and Liming - A Review Agriculture 30-33

Majority of soils in Tripura are strongly acidic having a pH range of 5.1-5.5. Groundnut, an oilseed crop, can grow well in coarse-textured soils which facilitate the better growth and development of groundnut pods. The low soil pH is associated with a number of soil chemical and biological properties that manifest themselves as the components of the acid soil syndrome. There are some specific problems which are associated with acid soils e.g., aluminum, iron and manganese toxicity; molybdenum deficiency; failures in legume nodulation; increase in plant disease, and calcium and magnesium deficiency. These conditions may adversely affect groundnut growth. Liming is an important proposition to combat soil acidity, however, everywhere this approach does not prove economical and most of the time it is out of the reach of resource poor farmers. Thus, judicious application of lime and integrated nutrient management (combinations of bio-fertilizer, greeen manuring, organic manure and chemical fertilizer) can be practiced to formulate an integrated programme for acid soil management which will be eco-friendly and economically feasible tool to conquer productivity barrier and to attain sustainable groundnut production in acid soils of Tripura.

Acid soil, Biofertilizers, Organic manures, Green manuring NIL 2020-03-01 Review Articles D. Dey, M.C. Kundu and D. Sen

D. Dey*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Palli Siksha Bhavana (Institute of Agriculture), Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan 731236, Birbhum, West Bengal, INDIA

M.C. Kundu

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Palli Siksha Bhavana (Institute of Agriculture), Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan 731236, Birbhum, West Bengal, INDIA

D. Sen

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Lembuchera-799210, West Tripura, INDIA

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46 1721989310 Innovative Farming January-March (2020) Review on Present Status, Issues and Management of Indian Marine Fisheries Fisheries Science 34-41

Marine fisheries is recognized as a sunrise sector and the prospects of foreign exchange earnings and employability is attracting more and more people into active fishing and allied sectors.. Fisheries resources are nutritional security, besides livelihood support and gainful employment. All over the world, more than 30 million fishers and fish farmers and their families gain their livelihoods from fisheries. Globally, fish provide about 16 per cent of the animal protein consumed by humans, and are a valuable source of minerals and essential fatty acids. Marine fisheries are very important sectors of India. It provides employment to millions of people and contributes to food security of the country. With a coastline of 8,118 km, an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 2.02 million sq km, and with extensive resources, fisheries play a vital role. This article represents initial reviews on the status, challenges, distribution, research and sustainable management of marine fisheries in India.

Marine, Livelihood, Animal protein, Employment, Sustainable NIL 2020-03-10 Review Articles Suman Takar and Udai Ram Gurjar

Suman Takar*

Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi - 628 008, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

Udai Ram Gurjar

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai - 400 061, Maharashtra, INDIA

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47 1721989841 Innovative Farming January-March (2020) A Study on Media Preferences of Organic Farmers of Hilly Areas of J&K Agriculture 42-44

Electronisation and mechanization in communication systems have provided an opportunity to access the information rapidly, accurately and repeatedly. To reach the unreach modern electronic gadgets and systems have been introduced to cope-up the requirements. Information has an immense value in our society. Its large scale dissemination through highly preferred communication media constitutes one of the most striking developments of present era. Organic farming has an important scope in hilly rural areas of J&K. In order to increase the organic crops production in hilly areas, it is necessary that the organic farmers of hilly areas should adopt the scientific organic farming technologies. In order to know the media preferences of organic farmers residing in hilly areas, the present study was conducted in hilly district Reasi of Jammu and Kashmir which was selected purposively. A sample of 150 trained organic farmers was selected purposively. A list of different sources of organic farming information was prepared and farmers were asked to indicate their preferences on a three point scale. It was found that Extension Personnel of KVK and Extension Personnel of State Deptt. of Agri. were highly preferred by the organic farmers.

Hilly areas, Media preferences, Organic farmers NIL 2020-03-13 Research Articles Banarsi Lal and Vikas Tandon

Banarsi Lal*

KVK, Tanda, Reasi (SKUAST-Jammu)-182301, INDIA

Vikas Tandon

Division of Biotechnology, SKUAST-Jammu, J&K, INDIA

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48 1721990101 Innovative Farming January-March (2020) Taxonomic Documentation of Coleopteran Phototactic Insect Fauna of Rice Collected in Light Trap at Jabalpur District of Madhya Pradesh, India Agriculture 45-48

The present research work was carried out at two distinct locations (Research Field and Farmer’s Field). The Research Field, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya and Farmer’s Field Village - Jatwa, Panagar Block of district Jabalpur Madhya Pradesh during two cropping season of rice i.e. Kharif of 2015 and 2016. Light trap was used for the taxonomic documentation Coleopteran phototactic insect fauna. Total 34 species of order Coleoptera belongs to 8 families were collected from rice ecosystem. Family Carabidae was the dominating family among the all 8 families. 34 species were collected at Farmer’s Field while 29 species at Research Field.

Coleoptera, Diversity, Eco-system, Light trap, Rice, Taxonomy NIL 2020-03-18 Research Articles Anil Kurmi, R. Pachori, A.K. Bhowmick, A.K. Sharma, H.L. Sharma and Brajesh K. Namdev

Anil Kurmi

Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.), INDIA

R. Pachori

Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.), INDIA

A.K. Bhowmick

Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.), INDIA

A.K. Sharma

Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.), INDIA

H.L. Sharma

Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.), INDIA

Brajesh K. Namdev*

Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.), INDIA

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49 1721990501 Innovative Farming Rodent Damages and Approaches for their Management Agriculture 54-59

Rodents are major vertebrate pests belongs to order Rodentia and class Mammalia. About 40% of all mammal species are rodents (2,277 species).They have emerged as a major pest due to their high damage potential and tendency to damage major crops at field level and in storage in India. Analysis of the reviews on pre-harvest losses indicates a range of 5-15% damage to major cereal crops and higher damages are noticed in endemic areas. Also about 2.5% damage is caused by rodents in post- harvest system. Rodents also gained importance due to their outbreaks in endemic areas and potential vector to cause and transmit zoonotic diseases such as plague and leptospirosis. The lesser bandicoot, Bandicota bengalensis, is predominant in irrigated crops throughout the country. The Indiang erbil, Tetara indica, soft-furred field rat, Millardia meltada, and field mouse, Mus booduga, are widespread in both irrigated dryland and dryland crops in the country, except in the north-eastern states. Farmers are facing huge problems due to rodent damage to their agricultural and horticultural crops for food and hoarding. The use of rodenticides is the common approach to manage rodent menace, but rodenticide coupled with many cultural practices like clean cultivation, proper soil tillage and crop scheduling, had given long-lasting results. Currently, problems occur due to increased intensive cropping with expansion of irrigated areas, changing agricultural practices resulting in higher breeding and damages by lesser bandicoot rats, increased coconut cultivation without proper spacing, cultivation of oilpalm in rodent-endemic areas, and natural calamities like flash floods and drought spells followed by heavy rains etc. Integrated rodent management is the available option to manage rodent damages.

Behaviour, Damages, Management, Rodents NIL 2020-04-22 Review Articles Mariadoss, A., J. Alice and A. Chakraborty

Mariadoss A.*

National Institute of Plant Health Management (NIPHM), Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad - 500 030, INDIA

J. Alice

National Institute of Plant Health Management (NIPHM), Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad - 500 030, INDIA

A. Chakraborty

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khowai, Tripura - 799207, INDIA

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50 1721993026 Innovative Farming Stage Specific Actual Crop Evapotranspiration of Bt. Cotton under Different Mulch Conditions Agriculture 74-78

Acquaintance of the exact water loss through actual evapotranspiration is necessary for sustainable development and environmentally sound water management to avoid the underestimation or overestimation of crop water consumption. An accurate estimation of crop evapotranspiration is important for better irrigation scheduling and water management. An attempt has been made to estimate actual evapotranspiration (ETa) at different growth stage of Bt. cotton under silver black plastic mulch, biodegradable plastic mulch, wheat straw mulch and no mulch condition using soil moisture sensor and it was compared with crop evapotranspiration (ETc) estimated using Penman- Monteith and Pan Evaporation method. Results revealed that Pan evaporation and Penmen Monteith approach over estimated cumulative ETc under by 46.11%, 45.84%, 39.33%, 56.10% and 22.89%, 22.50%, 13.19%, 39.42% than sensor based ETc under silver black plastic mulch, biodegradable plastic mulch, wheat straw mulch and control respectively at initial stage of Bt. cotton which was followed by development stage, mid stage and end stage of Bt. cotton. Sensor based approach estimated lower cumulative ETc at all growth stage than Penmen Monteith method and Pan ETc approach.

Actual crop evapotranspiration, Biodegradable plastic mulch, Silver black plastic mulch, Wheat straw mulch NIL 2020-05-15 Research Articles G.V. Prajapati, R. Subbaiah, A.N. Kunapra, N.S. Vithlani, A.M. Paghdal, H.Y. Maheta, H.H. Mashru, H.R. Vadar, R.J. Patel and J.M. Modhvadia

G.V. Prajapati*

Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujrat, INDIA

R. Subbaiah

College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, AAU, Godhra, Gujrat, INDIA

A.N. Kunapra

College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, AAU, Godhra, Gujrat, INDIA

N.S. Vithlani

Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujrat, INDIA

A.M. Paghdal

Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujrat, INDIA

H.Y. Maheta

Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujrat, INDIA

H.H. Mashru

Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujrat, INDIA

H.R. Vadar

Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujrat, INDIA

R.J. Patel

Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujrat, INDIA

J.M. Modhvadia

Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujrat, INDIA

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51 1721993593 Innovative Farming Quality Double Hybrid Seed by National Silkworm Seed Organization for Popularization of Bivoltine Sericulture in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh Sericulture 83-88

Chittoor district which occupies first position in Mulberry sericulture in Andhra Pradesh is in the Rayalaseema region where the temperature goes up to 47oC in summer months. Inspite of water scarcity and low rainfall in the recent past, mulberry cocoon production sustained due to quality silkworm seed. NSSO has 20 SSPCs managed by well qualified scientists to create a new record in the seed production year after year. Bivoltine Double Hybrid Silkworm Seed have contributed for the sustenance and higher returns to the sericulturists. Grainage performance with the recovery of Dfls above NSSO norms as per the quality standards of ISO-9001:2015 has enhanced the returns from sericulture. The Bivoltine seed production by NSSO is appreciable as reflected in the Compounded Annual Growth rate (CAGR) of 17.21% for the past 5 years. The Bivoltine Dfls production by NSSO was 195.45 lakhs during 2013-14, 251.57 lakhs during 2014-15, 309.70 lakhs during 2015-16, 342.77 lakhs during 2016-17 and 314.32 lakhs during 2017-18 which clearly shows the continual improvement in production. The Egg recovery per 1 kg of Seed cocoon was well above the norms set for NSSO (65gms) in the grainages for the period from 2013-14 to 2017-18 which clearly defines the efficient utilization and management of Seed cocoons which has made the Bivoltine production economically sustainable. Present study was conducted in Chittoor cluster in Andhra Pradesh in 10 mandals i.e. Chittoor, Penumuru, Bangarupalem, Thavanampalle, Irala, Gudipala, Puthalapattu, G.D. Nellore, Pakala and Palasamudram. The paper deals with 5 years comparative data in Bivoltine Double Hybrid NSSO source Dfls brushing, Dfls harvesting, Average yield and Silk productivity since 2013-14 to 2017-18 in Chittoor cluster which shows continual improvement. The study reveals that the Dfls brushing was 82175 during 2013-14 which was increased to 110000 during 2014-15, 160400 during 2015-16, 249000 during 2016-17 and 443000 during 2017-18. Seed Cocoons harvested was 54.727 MT with an Average yield of 67.400 in 2013-14, 76.802 MT with an average yield of 69.820 in 2014-15, 102.988 MT with an average yield of 71.150 in 2015-16, 184.190 MT with an Average yield of 73.970 in 2016-17 and 313.400 MT with an Average yield of 75.900 in 2017-18. The study shows that quality Bivoltine Double hybrid NSSO source Dfls has enhanced the productivity and popularized the Bivoltine production in Chittoor district.

Average yield, Bivoltine double hybrid, National Silkworm Seed Organization NIL 2020-05-25 Research Articles Deepa, P., V. Harlapur and R.K. Mishra

Deepa P.*

Silkworm Seed Production Centre, National Silkworm Seed Organization, Central Silk Board, Madanapalle - 517325, Andhra Pradesh, INDIA

V. Harlapur

National Silkworm Seed Organization, Central Silk Board, Madiwala, Bangalore - 560068, Karnataka, INDIA

R.K. Mishra

National Silkworm Seed Organization, Central Silk Board, Madiwala, Bangalore - 560068, Karnataka, INDIA

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52 1721993807 Innovative Farming Fertilizer Prescriptions under STCR-IPNS for Hybrid Maize in Inceptisol (Vertic ustropept) Agriculture 89-91

The field experiment was conducted to refine the fertiliser prescription equation for hybrid maize on an Inceptisol (Periyenackampalayam soil series- Vertic ustropept), conducted at farmer’s holding of Allapalayam village, Annur block, Coimbatore District of Tamil Nadu in Western Zone of Tamil Nadu during Rabi 2015-16. Inceptisol. The soil of experimental field was sandy clay loam with alkaline pH and non-saline in nature. The soil was low in organic carbon and available N, medium in available P and high in available K. The available Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn were in sufficient status. Basic parameters were calculated from the data generated from the field experiment. Using the basic parameters, crop nutrient requirement per quintal of grain production, contribution of soil available nutrients, contribution of fertilizer nutrients and contribution of farm yard manure were worked out. It was found that hybrid maize requires 1.76, 0.58 and 1.62 kg of N, P2O5 and K2O per quintal of grain produced. Using the basic parameters, fertiliser prescription equations were developed based on integrated plant nutrition system (IPNS). It was estimated that, application of FYM @ 12.5 t ha-1 with 28% moisture, 0.53%, 0.26% and 0.50% of N, P and K, respectively along with NPK fertilizers, the extent of saving inorganic fertiliser for hybrid maize was 40, 20 and 30 kg of fertiliser N, P2O5 and K2O, respectively. So, that integrated use of organic manure and chemical fertilizers is beneficial in improving crop yield and uptake by maize hybrid. Thus to maintain consistent soil fertility with high rate of productivity soil test based fertiliser recommendation along with integrated nutrient management will benefit the farmer in saving of fertilizer and sustaining soil health.

Crop nutrient, Hybrid maize, Soil health, STCR-IPNS equation NIL 2020-06-06 Research Articles Sivaranjani, C., K.M. Sellamuthu, R. Santhi and S. Maragatham

Sivaranjani C.*

Directorate of Natural Resource Management, Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (640003), INDIA

K.M. Sellamuthu

Horticultural College and Research institute, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625604), INDIA

R. Santhi

Directorate of Natural Resource Management, Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (640003), INDIA

S. Maragatham

Directorate of Natural Resource Management, Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (640003), INDIA

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53 1721994056 Innovative Farming Effect of Fertilizer Dose and Split Application of Fertilizer on Growth, Yield and Nutrient Use Efficiency in Mulberry Sericulture 92-97

Field experiment was conducted at Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Berhampore- 742 101 during 2016 to study the effect of fertilizer dose and split application of fertilizer on growth, yield and nutrient use efficiency of mulberry leaves. The treatments comprised of four levels of fertilizer (75, 100, 125 & 150% RDF), two types of split application (2 splits: 15th & 45th day after pruning and 3 splits: 15th, 30th & 45th day after pruning). A control plot of 100% RDF with one time application of fertilizer on 15th day after pruning was also maintained. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. Recommended dose of fertilizer was used at 67.2:36: 22.4 kg NPK ha-1 crop-1. The required nutrient as per treatments were applied through Urea, DAP and MOP. The experimentation was done under existing S-1635 mulberry garden with 2'×2' spacing. The results revealed that mulberry showed positive response to fertilizer levels and split application of fertilizer. Growth and yield attributes were significantly higher under 125% RDF with 2 split application and this was on par with 150% RDF with in both 2 split and 3 split applications. Significantly higher leaf yield of 506.40 g/plant (14.07 t ha-1 crop-1) was registered under fertilizer dose at 125% RDF with 2 splits. Total soluble protein (mg/g of fresh green weight) was 31.82% higher in 125% RDF with 2 splits than control. Nutrient use efficiency (NUE) was markedly decreased with higher fertilizer dose (i.e. 150% RDF) than lower fertilizer dose (75% RDF). The results indicated that 11.10% higher NUE was registered under 125% RDF with 2 splits compared to control. From the above study, it could be concluded that application of 84:45:25 kg NPK ha-1crop-1 in 2 split was found to be a suitable technology for achieving higher mulberry leaf yield with enhanced fertilizer use efficiency. However, split application of fertilizer could reduce total nitrate emissions from mulberry field due to better nutrient use efficiency and this could one of the climate change mitigation option.

Fertilizer levels, Mulberry, Nutrient use efficiency, Spilt application, Yield NIL 2020-06-23 Research Articles Mahesh, R., Hirom Premjit Meitei, Debashish Chakravarty and V. Sivaprasad

Mahesh R.*

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Berhampore, West Bengal-742 101, INDIA

Hirom Premjit Meitei

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Berhampore, West Bengal-742 101, INDIA

Debashish Chakravarty

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Berhampore, West Bengal-742 101, INDIA

V. Sivaprasad

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Central Silk Board, Berhampore, West Bengal-742 101, INDIA

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54 1721994351 Innovative Farming Comparative Effectiveness of New Insecticides against Spodoptera litura in Tobacco Nurseries Agriculture 98-102

Tobacco caterpillar, Spodoptera litura F. is the key pest of tobacco nurseries and it is one of the major problems in successful production of healthy tobacco seedlings required to realise optimum yield and quality tobacco leaf. Insecticides chlorfenapyr 10 SC @ 0.01%, metaflumizone 22 SC @ 0.04%, spinosad 48 SC 0.01% and IGRs novoluron 10 EC @ 0.01% & lufenuron 5 EC @ 0.006% were evaluated against S. litura in tobacco seed beds in a replicated experiment in comparison with emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 0.0025% and untreated control for two seasons. Emamectin benzoate 0.0025% recorded least seedling damage followed by chlorfenapyr 10 SC @ 0.01%. The seedling damage in the treatments of emamectin benzoate and chlorfenapyr was on á par with each other. The studies on persistent residual toxicity of the insecticides showed cent per cent mortality up to 8 days in emamectin benzoate @ 0.0025% and 6 DAS in chlorfenapyr @ 0.01%. The period of persistency was 20 days in emamectin benzoate and 16 days in chlorfenapyr treatment. The mean persistent toxicity and persistent toxicity index were 62.84 & 1256.80 for emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 0.0025% and 71.95 & 1151.20 for chlorfenapyr 10 SC @ 0.01%. Chlorfenapyr 10 SC @ 0.01% can be used for management of S. litura in tobacco seed beds along with emamectin benzoate 5 SG @ 0.0025%.

Insecticides, IGRs, Nicotiana tabacum, Spodoptera litura, Tobacco NIL 2020-06-23 Research Articles U. Sreedhar

U. Sreedhar*

ICAR-Central Tobacco Research Institute, Rajahmundry - 533 105, Andhra Pradesh, INDIA

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55 1721994616 Innovative Farming Constraints of Bio-based Farming System: A Study in Hooghly and South 24-Parganas Districts of South West Bengal Agriculture 103-109

To cater the demand for rapidly growing population, Indian agriculture was mainly based on synthetic based modern agriculture. In-spite of drastic positive change, this chemical-based agriculture was highly criticized from environmental point of view. Organic farming, low external input and sustainable agriculture (LEISA), Bio-Based Farming System (BBFS), bio-dynamic farming etc. are some of the practices having same objectives being practiced in developed and developing countries, recognized as the best alternatives to conventional chemical farming. The growing demand for non-chemical agriculture are in top priority for maintaining soil fertility as well as soil health for sustainable agricultural production. Farmers practicing organic farming are facing constraints during conversion from chemical base to non-chemical agriculture: like non-availability of readymade input output markets, absence of skill, awareness, price premium etc. The idea of this present study has been conceived with the objectives of building authentic database regarding demographic profile of the farmers, practicing bio-based farming system and constraints they are facing while practicing this in South West Bengal. Randomly selected two districts of south West Bengal, from which, two blocks also have been randomly selected. Two villages have been purposively selected and then 50 farmers from each village (total 100 farmers) have been selected from those two blocks. Results showed seventeen constrains and while ranking those constraints - ‘Lacking of Price advantage’ and ‘Lower profitability’ have scored the maximum reflecting the maximum constraints as faced by the BBFS practicing farmers. More study is needed for generalization of these constraints of bio-based farming.

Bio-Based Farming System (BBFS), LEISA, Synthetic, Sustainable agriculture, Debashis Sarkar NIL 2020-06-27 Research Articles Debabrata Giri, Bidhan Chandra Roy, Debashis Sarkar and Sourendranath Das

Debabrata Giri*

Agricultural Economics Dept., Palli Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati and Agricultural Training Centre / State Agricultural Management & Extension Training Institute, Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Narendrapur, Kolkata - 700103, West Bengal, INDIA

Bidhan Chandra Roy

Agricultural Economics Dept., Palli Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati and Agricultural Training Centre / State Agricultural Management & Extension Training Institute, Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Narendrapur, Kolkata - 700103, West Bengal, INDIA

Debashis Sarkar

Agricultural Economics Dept., Palli Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati and Agricultural Training Centre / State Agricultural Management & Extension Training Institute, Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Narendrapur, Kolkata - 700103, West Bengal, INDIA

Sourendranath Das

Agricultural Training Centre / State Agricultural Management & Extension Training Institute, Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Narendrapur, Kolkata - 700103, West Bengal, INDIA

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56 1721995610 Innovative Farming July-September (2020) Cluster Promotion Programme (CPP) - A Boon for Development of Bivoltine Sericulture in Kalyandurg, Ananthapur District of Andhra Pradesh Sericulture 110-116

Cluster Promotion Programme (CPP) was implemented during 2008-2019 under XI & XII five year plans to generate gradable Bivoltine raw silk and project India as a potential Bivoltine silk producer in the international scenario. Kalyandurg has become one of the clusters selected for implementing the CPP out of 17 clusters selected to implement CPP in Andhra Pradesh. CPP was implemented in Kalyandurg during 2010-19 and distributed 28.51 lakh of DFLs against the target of 24.75 lakh with a significant achievement of 121.44%. During the CPP implemented period, 26.80 lakh DFLs were harvested, produced 1397.7MT of cocoons and contributed in generation of 275.85MT graded Bivoltine raw silk. Bivoltine DFLs brushing was raised progressively from the bench mark level (25000) to 59600 (2010-11), 63300 (2011-12), 69925 (2012-13), 133025 (2013-14), 246945 (2014-15), 327895 (2015-16), 540625 (2016-17), 653100 (2017-18) and 756400 (2018-19) DFLs with a percentage of achievement as against the given annual target was recorded as 119%, 106%, 108%, 133%, 165%, 109%, 150%, 102% and 101% respectively. Cocoon yield kg/100 DFLs was also recorded significant level of increase ranging from 61 kgs (2010-11) to 76 kgs (2018-19) per 100 DFLs whereas, bench mark yield was 45 kg/100 DFLs. Bivoltine cocoons generated by the Kalyandurg cluster farmers fetched higher market prices which ranged from Rs. 288/kg to Rs. 482.0/kg with average rate of RS. 347/kg while benchmark rate was Rs. 223. For the horizontal development of sericulture around 1857 acres of new mulberry plantation was undertaken among 1453 farmers followed by the organization of 157 extension & communication programmes (ECPs) and 41 Farmers Skill Trainings (FSTs) and sensitised 6,632 sericultural farming communities on various improved technologies for further accelerating the Bivoltine sericulture development under the cluster. The improvement in all aspects indicates the success of CPP in Kalyandurg during 2010-19 is nothing but intensive adoption of integrated technologies in cluster approach.

Bivoltine cocoon, Crop progress, Cluster Promotion Programme, Extension Communication programme, Silkworm rearing NIL 2020-07-07 Research Articles K.P. Kiran Kumar, B. Vijaya Naidu, P. Sudhakar, I. Vijaya Kumar and R.S. Teotia

K.P. Kiran Kumar*

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board (CSB), Ananthapur-515 001, Andhra Pradesh, INDIA

B. Vijaya Naidu

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board (CSB), Ananthapur-515 001, Andhra Pradesh, INDIA

P. Sudhakar

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board (CSB), Ananthapur-515 001, Andhra Pradesh, INDIA

I. Vijaya Kumar

Department of Sericulture, Kalyandurg, Ananthapur District, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh, INDIA

R.S. Teotia

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute (CSRTI), CSB, Mysore-570 008, Karnataka, INDIA

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57 1721995973 Innovative Farming July-September (2020) Domestic Waste Water Influence on V-1 (Morus spp) Mulberry Leaf Yield and Elemental Composition Sericulture 117-122

Domestic waste water or grey water is commonly available source among waste water in every household. The influence of this water on mulberry leaf quality was experimented at College of Sericulture, Chintamani by using hostel waste water with primary sedimentation and the supernatant water collected was pumped into another storage tank and utilised for irrigation of mulberry garden. The experiment was set up in RCBD with 7 different treatments varying (recommended dose of Fertilizer) RDF under three replications and compared with borewell water irrigation and 100% RDF. The experiment showed clear significant differences among the treatments on the elemental composition of leaf. It has shown that good amount of nutrients accumulated in the leaf that was grown under Domestic Waste Water (DWW) along with 75% RDF applied to the soil compared to other treatments and also the control. All the three primary nutrients (N, P, K), secondary nutrients (Ca, Mg, S) and four micronutrients (Zn, Cu, Fe and Mn) showed similar trend. The study has thrown light that in low fertile soil (Zone 5-eastern dry) the above recommendation holds well. This reduces the excess accumulation of nutrients in the soil and thus toxicity can be avoided. The bioassay study was also done using the same mulberry leaf to confirm its utility for rearing. Here Effective rate of rearing and Defective cocoon percent showed the difference among the treatments. Complete 100% RDF along with DWW has shown some negative effect on these parameters. Hence looking into the leaf quality and rearing parameters 75% RDF with DWW proved to be recommendable and 50% RDF with domestic waste water for medium fertile soil.

Bioassay, Domestic waste water, Micronutrients, Rearing parameters, Toxicity NIL 2020-07-18 Research Articles Bharathi V.P., Naveen, D.V., C S. Kallimani, Pallavi and Ramakrishna Naika

Bharathi V.P.*

College of Sericulture, Chintamani, UAS(B), Karnataka, INDIA

Naveen D.V.

College of Sericulture, Chintamani, UAS(B), Karnataka, INDIA

C S. Kallimani

College of Sericulture, Chintamani, UAS(B), Karnataka, INDIA

Pallavi

College of Sericulture, Chintamani, UAS(B), Karnataka, INDIA

Ramakrishna Naika

College of Sericulture, Chintamani, UAS(B), Karnataka, INDIA

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58 1721996620 Innovative Farming July-September (2020) Low Cost Fish Feed Formulation with Nutritional Goldmine, Seri-Pupae Waste and Conventional Agricultural Byproducts for Betterment of Fish Farmer of Manipur Fisheries Science 131-134

Manipur being a sericulture state, produces all the four traded silkworms viz. Eri, Mulberry, Muga and Tasar with a total production of 615.45 MT. Silkworm pupa which contributes 70% of cocoon biomass is a seri-waste. However, seri-waste, both spent and unspent pupae are complete nutritional package rich in protein (~41%), micro nutrients such as Iron (111 mg/ 100 gm), Magnesium (622 mg/ 100 gm), Calcium (~30.51 mg/ 100 gm) and also posses antioxidant property (IC 50%, 68μg/ml, eri pupae). The state have immense scope for aquaculture development but availability of fish feed is a limiting factor. Feed cost covers 60-80% of the total production of which protein cost accounts 15%. Therefore, efficacy of three different feed formulations (T1, T2 & T3) incorporated with defatted silkworm pupae waste (DSPW) at 25%, 50% and 75% respectively replacing Mustard oil cake (MOC) were evaluated including conventional feed as control on carp fingerlings (Labeo rohita). T3 showed significant effective growth rate indicating more than double the size (36.60 ± 0.56 gm) then the initial day (16.66 ± 0.56 gm) at the end of 90 days. Relative Growth Rate (RGR) of different formulated feeds indicated approximate increase of 45-50% with respect to the proportion of DSPW incorporation. Hence, fish feed of DSPW as protein supplement revealed double the relative growth rate compare to control feed. Low cost fish feed formulation with locally available materials are more cheaper than the conventional protein feed sources such as groundnut cake, fish meal and soybean meal, which do not permit profit maximization in aquaculture ventures. Hence, silk industry waste can be an alternative low-cost protein supplement for effective fish feed formulation in the state.

Defatted silkworm pupae waste, Fish feed formulation, Relative Growth Rate NIL 2020-08-10 Research Articles Tourangbam Shantibala, Gusheinzed Waikhom, K. Mamocha Singh and B.N. Hazarika

Tourangbam Shantibala*

College of Horticulture and Forestry, Pasighat, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, INDIA

Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, Imphal, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, Takyelpat, Manipur, INDIA

Gusheinzed Waikhom

Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, Imphal, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, Takyelpat, Manipur, INDIA

Gusheinzed Waikhom

Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, Imphal, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, Takyelpat, Manipur, INDIA

K. Mamocha Singh

College of Agriculture, Iroisemba, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, INDIA

B.N. Hazarika

College of Horticulture and Forestry, Pasighat, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, INDIA

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59 1721996906 Innovative Farming July-September (2020) Antibacterial Efficacy of Cotton Fabric Dyed with Natural Dye from Fruits of Mulberry Varieties Commonly Grown in Tamil Nadu Sericulture 135-139

Ecofriendly dyeing efficacy of cotton fabric with the pigments of mulberry fruits and its antibacterial functionality were investigated. The pure extract, ethanol and aqueous extracts were tested for their dye ability. The colour values referred in terms of L, a and b indicated purple to red colour of the pigment. The crude extract of fruits shown inhibitory zone against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli in well diffusion assay. The cotton fabric dyed with fruit extract had fastness to light, UV and also thermal stability. The results of this research indicated a potential commercial application of the mulberry fruit in textile technology.

Antimicrobial activity, Dyeing, Mulberry fruit, Pigments NIL 2020-08-28 Research Articles Menaka, S. and Vijila, K.

Menaka S.

Department of Agricultural Entomology, Adhiparasakthi Agricultural College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

Vijila K.*

Department Agricultural Microbiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

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60 1722006362 Innovative Farming October-December (2020) Status of Cashew Production and Trade in the World and Avenues for Increasing Cashew Production in India Agriculture 144-148

Cashew is an evergreen tree grown mainly in the tropical regions. Origin of cashew is believed to be the North East region of Brazil. Cashew has spread to different parts of the world by the activities of Portuguese colonials, Spanish sailors and the birds like bats. Currently, cashew has attained the status of an important tree nut crop in the world. Historically, India, Brazil and African countries dominated cashew production and trade. After 2006, Vietnam became the world leader in cashew with a significant increase in cashew production and earnings from export. In the cashew cultivation area, Côte d’Ivoire stands first with 26% and India stands second with 17% area of global cashew. Vietnam earns foreign exchange worth the US$ 2 billion which is nearly three times that of India’s earnings of US$ 0.7 billion. Global per capita consumption of cashew kernels has risen by about 47%. Cashew production in India can be increased with a multipronged approach involving area expansion, increasing crop productivity and processing efficiency. To address these issues associated with lower production various research and extension effort apart from government initiatives on area expansion have been taken up in India.

Area, Cashew, Export, Production NIL 2020-10-23 Review Articles Siddanna Savadi, B.M. Muralidhara and M.G. Nayak

Siddanna Savadi*

ICAR-Directorate of Cashew Research, Puttur- 574 202, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka, INDIA

B.M. Muralidhara

ICAR-Directorate of Cashew Research, Puttur- 574 202, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka, INDIA

M.G. Nayak

ICAR-Directorate of Cashew Research, Puttur- 574 202, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka, INDIA

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61 1722006635 Innovative Farming October-December (2020) River Basin Delineation and Hydrological Response Units (HRUs) Analysis using SWAT Model Agriculture 149-154

The present study analyses the River Basin Delineation and Hydrological Response Units (HRUs) Analysis using Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) Model. Delineation of Rajasthan, India considering delineation of the River Basin plays a significant role in watercourse planning. The study focused to demonstrate the applicability of SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tool) - a model of residential scale to forecast the effect over a period of land, soil and water changes. Since hydrological models are essential tools for understanding the hydrological activity of river basins, hence are used for the management of the river basin. These models are capable of simulating the effect of various systems for soil and water conservation. Under this study the delineations of river basin was carried out by ArcGIS 10.2.1. Post delineation the land use map, the soil class map and the slope class map were superimposed to complete the river basin HRUs analysis on the delineated river basin map. The output of the study may help in water resource planning in the basin and to undertake appropriate preventive actions in areas that are vulnerable to erosion.

ArcGIS, Delineation, HRUs, Land use map, River basin, SWAT model NIL 2020-11-20 Research Articles Jalgaonkar B.R., Mahesh Kothari, H.K. Mittal and P.K. Singh

Jalgaonkar B.R.*

Department of Soil and Water Engineering, CTAE (MPUAT), Udaipur, Rajasthan, INDIA

Mahesh Kothari

Department of Soil and Water Engineering, CTAE (MPUAT), Udaipur, Rajasthan, INDIA

H.K. Mittal

Department of Soil and Water Engineering, CTAE (MPUAT), Udaipur, Rajasthan, INDIA

P.K. Singh

Department of Soil and Water Engineering, CTAE (MPUAT), Udaipur, Rajasthan, INDIA

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62 1722006827 Innovative Farming October-December (2020) Recent Trends in Site Quality Evaluation Agriculture 155-159

Site quality (SQ) is maximum timber a site can produce in a given year. Site quality evaluation is important tool for plantation management. Site factors decide the productivity of that site which varies with species. Though there are many direct and indirect methods for site quality evaluation, having their own advantages and limitations. Site index is most commonly and widely used in even aged forest. Intercept method has been used to determine site quality of young stands. For mixed and uneven-aged forests where determination of the age is quite subjective due to false annual growth site form method is used. RSI is new method of site quality evaluation based on self-thinning law. Site quality classification based on vegetational approach is found suitable in low latitudes. As productivity mainly derived by climate and soil environmental approach is also used. All the methods examined are reasonably accurate if applied to restricted areas. A carefully derived SI is the most accurate indirect method of SQ measurement. In this paper we will discuss various method for site quality measurement.

Evaluation, Plantation management, Site index, Site quality NIL 2020-12-12 Review Articles Chichaghare A.R., Sreejith M. and Vijayalakshmi K.P.

Chichaghare A.R.*

Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur-680656, INDIA

Sreejith M.

Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur-680656, INDIA

Vijayalakshmi K.P.

Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur-680656, INDIA

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63 1722142326 Biotica Research Today Trans-boundary Pests and Diseases: A Threat in Agriculture Agriculture 30-31

Food security is one of the most critical issue for humanity as well as agricultural production. The threats analysed were environmental degradation, climate change and diseases and pests of animals and plants. Transboundary diseases contribute substantially in pest and disease-induced global food loss which is approximately 1/3rd of annual food production. Some of Important transboundary diseases & pests are Brown Streak virus, banana bunchy top disease, greening disease of citrus, Powdery rust of coffee, Soybean downy mildew, Blue mold of tobacco, rust of maize, locusts, armyworm, fruit flies, cassava diseases and wheat rusts are among the most destructive transboundary plant pests and diseases. So as a protective measure, a country must have suitable contingency plans to respond quickly to high threat diseases. This could only be achieved by timely application of scientific technology for rapid response.

Climate change, Diseases, Pest, Transboundary NIL 2020-03-11 Popular Article Jayashree Bhattacharjee, Debashre Bhattacharjee and Ipsita Samal

Jayashree Bhattacharjee*

Dept. of Agriculture, Govt. of Tripura, Tripura, India

Debashre Bhattacharjee

Dept. of Agriculture, Govt. of Tripura, Tripura, India

Ipsita Samal

Division of Entomology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

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64 1722228382 Biotica Research Today Impact of Climate Change on Crop Pests Agriculture 38-39

Crop pest includes insects, pathogens and weeds which are one of the most crucial factors that cause yield loss to a greater extent.The negative impact of climate change on agriculture must be discussed under the light of its effect on crop pests. Climate change indirectly affects the pest dynamics by altering their ecology. Population dynamics, life cycle, geographic range, physiology of the pests depends on temperature, rainfall, relative humidity, radiation, carbon-di-oxide concentration, soil moisture etc. The host-pest-environment relationship is influenced by the changes in weather, soil and crop factors which are subjected to alteration due to the climate change.

CO2 concentration, Insects, Pathogens, Temperature NIL 2020-03-18 Popular Article Argha Ghosh

Argha Ghosh*

Dept. of Agricultural Meteorology and Physics, Bidhan Chandra KrishiViswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal (741 252), India

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65 1722229140 Biotica Research Today Varietal Wealth in Orchids Agriculture 40-46

Of about 1350 species of orchids, belonging to 186 genera reported from India; Northeast India sustains the highest number with about 856 species. Amongst them, 34 species of orchids are identified among the threatened plants of India and as many as endemic to different states of this region. Out of the eight orchid habitat regions in India, the two most important areas namely; the Eastern Himalayas and the North Eastern Region fall within the political boundaries of North Eastern Region. Terrestrial orchids are located in humus rich moist earth under tree shades in North Western India. Western Ghats harbour the small flowered orchids. Native endangered and rare orchid species are used as genetic resources for unique germplasms, crop improvement program and herbal medicines.

Flower, North East, Orchid NIL 2020-04-12 Popular Article L.C. De

L.C. De*

ICAR-NRC for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

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66 1722231700 Biotica Research Today Severe Dry Spell .... Sucking Pests Alert in Rose! Agriculture 51-53

Rose is one of the important commercial flower crop grown throughout the tropics and warm temperate regions of the world and often referred as the “queen of flower crops”. Thrips are the most destructive insect pest on rose causes 90% yield loss. Aphids are also considered as a major pest on rose but occur sporadically. Scale insects attack the stems of roses growing in damp, shady places. Spider mites cause damage by puncturing rose leaves with their slender, pointed mouthparts, sucking the chlorophyll containing fluids from leaf cells. They are the important pests of field grown roses.

IPM, Mites, Rose, Sucking pests NIL 2020-04-14 Popular Article T. Sathyan, K. Elanchezhyan and K.R. Manikandan

T. Sathyan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

K. Elanchezhyan*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomolgy, Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Killikulam, Vallanadu, Tamil Nadu (628 252), India

K.R. Manikandan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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67 1722232435 Research Biotica July-September (2020) In-Situ Nutrient Recycling and Management Agriculture 91-96

One of the most important process occurring in the ecosystem is nutrient recycling, which describes the use, movement and recycling of nutrients in the environment involving both living and non-living components using biological, chemical and geological process. For economic and environmental reasons, it is essential that nutrient cycling is used more efficiently in the farm. To achieve this goal, reduction in long-distance nutrient flows, as well as promoting true on-farm recycling is required in which nutrients return in the form of crop residue or manure to the fields from which they came. There are a number of strategies to help farmers reach the goal of better nutrient cycling. However, there are potentially large flows of nutrients onto and off of farms. The inflow occurs as commercial and organic fertilizers and amendments as well as animal feeds are imported onto the farm and in manures and composts brought from off the farm. Exports are mainly in the form of crops and animal products. In general, larger amounts of nutrients are exported off the farm in vegetation (grains, forages, vegetables, etc.) than in animal products. Nutrient flows are of great concern because as nutrient levels decline, the soil rapidly degrades. Nutrient recycling can be done by effective utilization of straw, weed and other biomass, crop residues. Even fallow period can help nutrient recycling as well as maintenance of soil fertility. Crops producing more biomass if utilized well are more beneficial for effective nutrient recycling.

Biomass, In-situ, Nutrient management, Recycling https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/2.3.2020.91-96 2020-08-25 Research Articles Debasish Borah and Sarat Sekhar Bora

Debasish Borah*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool, BTAD, Udalguri, Assam (784 514), India

Sarat Sekhar Bora

Krishi Vigyan Kendra Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool, BTAD, Udalguri, Assam (784 514), India

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68 1722232724 Research Biotica July-September (2020) Spatial Variation of Soil Organic Carbon and Soil Carbon Sequestration Potential using Geostatistical Method in the Domain District of Biswanath Chariali, Assam Agriculture 97-101

The present research was aimed to estimate the spatial variability of soil organic carbon and their sequestration potential in the part of Bishwanaath, Chariali district of Assam. The sample was collected from marked sample points representing variability of soil type and crops grown. The collected samples were analysed for Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) and further SOC sequestration potential was derived based on this analysed SOC and CSP interpolation method deriving data in unsampled point. Geostatistical method viz., ordinary Kriging was employed for the detailed spatial distribution of SOC, CSP and interpolation map of SOC and CSP were generated. From the generated map it was revealed that SOC was lowest at the western part of study sites whereas the CSP is lowest at two spot where intensive cultivation of rice were practised since long time resulting comparatively less SOC build-up in the soil system. The remaining part of domain district were of medium to higher CSP potential. This difference in spatial variability in SOC and CSP might be due to the variation in soil physical properties specially bulk density of the respective soil sites. The Nugget to Sill ratio was quite high in CSP that indicating the management factor plays a very important role in soil carbon sequestration potential.

Carbon sequestration potential, Ordinary Kriging, Soil organic carbon, Spatial variation https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/2.3.2020.97-101 2020-08-31 Research Articles Jitendra Kumar, Nirmal De and Pallab Kumar Sarma

Jitendra Kumar

ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil Science (IISS), Nabi Bagh, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (462 038), India

Nirmal De*

Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Pallab Kumar Sarma

Bishwanath College of Agriculture, Assam Agriculture University, Chariali, Sonitpur, Assam (784 176), India

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69 1722233054 Research Biotica July-September (2020) Prospects of Cleistogamy in Plant Breeding Agriculture 102-104

Cleistogamy is a mode of reproduction which promotes self-pollination as the flower remains closed even after anthesis. This system avoids contamination of foreign pollen to outcross the clesitogamous flower. In nature, under suboptimal environmental condition, few plant species produce cleistogamous flower which requires fewer resources to reproduction. Three different types of cleistogamy occur in plants namely dimorphic cleistogamy, induced cleistogamy, and complete cleistogamy. This kind of sexual reproduction maintains the locally adopted gene complex and homogeneity of the genes in the population. This system of reproduction helps in achieving the genetic purity of any species. This system can be transferred to other species to exploit the cleistogamous nature of reproduction.

Breeding strategies, Cleistogamy, Mixed mating, Reproduction, Self-Pollination https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/2.3.2020.102-104 2020-09-05 Review Articles A. Manivannan

A. Manivannan*

ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Regional Station, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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70 1722234325 Research Biotica July-September (2020) Effect of Graded Level of N and P on Growth and Yield of Calendula Agriculture 109-112

An experiment to study the effect of graded level of N and P on growth and yield of calendula was carried out at Horticulture Section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur, during October 2018 to march 2019 with sixteen treatment combinations in factorial randomized block design. The treatments comprised of four levels of nitrogen 50, 75, 100, 125 kg ha-1 and phosphorus 0, 25, 50 and 75 kg ha-1 applied as per the treatments. The results of present investigation revealed that, application of 100 kg ha-1 nitrogen and 50 kg ha-1 phosphorus produced significantly maximum stem diameter and plant spread with respect to growth parameter, minimum days for first flower bud initiation, days for opening of first flower from bud initiation, days for 50% flowering with respect to flowering parameters and number of flowers plant-1, flower yield q ha-1 and dry matter plant yield q ha-1 with respect to yield parameters which were at par with the results obtained with the application of 125 kg ha-1 nitrogen and 50 kg ha-1 phosphorus. The interaction effects revealed that, they were significant in respect number of flowers plant-1 and flower yield q ha-1. For these parameters, the best treatment combination was 100 kg N kg ha-1 + 50 P kg ha-1. It was followed by 125 N kg ha-1 + 50 P kg ha-1.

Calendula, Growth, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Yield https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/2.3.2020.109-112 2020-09-12 Research Articles Ommala D. Kuchanwar, Ruchika S. Nagmote, Neha K. Chopde, Shanti Patil, Padmaja H. Kausadikar and P.A. Panghate

Ommala D. Kuchanwar*

Dept. of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 001), India

Ruchika S. Nagmote

Dept. of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 001), India

Neha K. Chopde

Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Sonapur, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Gadchiroli, Maharashtra (442 605), India

Shanti Patil

Dept. of Botany, College of Agriculture, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 001), India

Padmaja H. Kausadikar

Dept. of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 001), India

P.A. Panghate

Dept. of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 001), India

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71 1722234364 Biotica Research Today Potential Impact of Corona Virus on Agriculture Sector Agriculture 64-65

The global pandemic of Covid-19 that originated in the Wuhan province of China has stretched its arms in the enire world afecing each and every sector of the economy. This has led to a fall in the world economy especially in developing countries like India. India with its apt governance has however tried its best to combat this crisis with a country wide lockdown to prevent the health implicaions. But agriculture being the backbone of the country and the GDP has been impacted in a negaive way with huge disrupions in the supply chain and cropping decisions for upcoming agricultural seasons. All these have a negaive implicaion on the farming community that is and will be undergoing heavy inancial and mental losses.

Agriculture, Covid, Corona, Impact NIL 2020-04-15 Popular Article Prangya Paramita Sahoo and Suvangi Rath

Prangya Paramita Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Suvangi Rath

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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72 1722234709 Research Biotica July-September (2020) Dynamics of Organic Residue Decomposition and Mineralization of Nutrients in Soil Agriculture 113-116

The present study was undertaken to investigate “Dynamics of Organic Residue Decomposition and Mineralization of Nutrients in Soil” during the year 2018-19 at Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized design (CRD) with nine treatments replicated thrice. The treatments were absolute control in T1, cowdung mixture in T2, paddy straw in T3, wheat straw in T4, sugarcane trash in T5, gliricidia lopping in T6, subabul leaves in T7, soybean stalks in T8, greengram stalks in T9. Subabul leaves mixture (T7) recorded maximum ammoniacal nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen throughout experimentation. Gliricidia lopping mixture ranked 1st by recording maximum P mineralization for 30, 60 (7.33 mg kg-1), 90 (7.55 mg kg-1) and 120 (7.45 mg kg-1) days of experimentation. Sulphur mineralization was also found highest in T6 by application of gliricidia lopping mixture during experimentation. Hence, for fast decomposition and nutrient mineralization legume residue is more efficient than cereal or other organic residue.

Decomposition, Mineralization, Nitrogen, Nutrients, Organic residues https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/2.3.2020.113-116 2020-09-15 Research Articles Padmaja H. Kausadikar, Jagriti Patel, Ommala D. Kuchanwar, Shilpa Rananavare and Nishigandha Mairan

Padmaja H. Kausadikar*

SSAC Section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 010), India

Jagriti Patel

SSAC Section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 010), India

Ommala D. Kuchanwar

SSAC Section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 010), India

Shilpa Rananavare

SSAC Section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 010), India

Nishigandha Mairan

SSAC Section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 010), India

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73 1722235069 Research Biotica July-September (2020) Evaluation of Drip Irrigation System and Fertigation of Nitrogen in Sugarcane Agriculture 117-120

Field experiments conducted in sugarcane revealed that scheduling irrigation through drip daily at 80 percent of pan evaporation (PE) registered the highest cane yield (168.2 t ha-1) in main of cv. CO 86032 which was followed by 60 and 40 percent drip irrigation (148.5 and 140.9 t ha-1 respectively) and were significantly superior over surface method of irrigation at 0.75 IW/CPE ratio (126.2 t ha-1). In the ratoon crop, drip irrigation treatments at 40, 60 and 80 percent level of pan evaporation produced comparable cane yields (124.4, 131.7 and 128.9 t ha-1 respectively). Highest water use efficiency was observed in 40% PE treatment for both main crop and ratoon (150.3 and 146.8 kg ha mm-1 respectively). Nitrogen levels did not show any marked difference on cane yield and application of 175 kg N ha-1 as fertigation was found to be optimum and economical.

Drip irrigation, Nitrogen Fertigation, Pan evaporation, Sugarcane, Water use efficiency https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/2.3.2020.117-120 2020-09-19 Research Articles G. Thiyagarajan and M. Manikandan

G. Thiyagarajan*

Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Manikandan

Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kumulur, Tamil Nadu (621 712), India

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74 1722319389 Biotica Research Today Advanced Packaging Technology: A Boon for Fruit Marketing Agriculture 73-74

India has great potential to produce high quality fruits of different kinds and to export them to other countries but its marketability is still limited to local market. This is due to the delicate nature of fruits, poor handling practices and inadequate storage facilities. The storage life and quality of fruits after harvesting depend on packaging material and storage environment of fruits. Use of proper packaging and cushioning materials help a great extent to enhance shelf life of fruits. In nowadays competitive environment the role of package has changed due to increasing self-service and changing consumer’s lifestyle. Firm’s interest in package as a tool of sales promotion is growing increasingly. Package becomes an ultimate selling proposition stimulating impulsive buying behaviour, increasing market share and reducing promotional costs. Package attracts consumer’s attention to particular brand, enhances its image, and influences consumer’s perceptions about product.

Fruit, Marketing, Packaging NIL 2020-04-17 Popular Article Vaishnavi G. Magar

Vaishnavi G. Magar*

College of Agriculture Dongarshelki Tanda, Udgir, Latur, Maharashtra (413 517), India

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75 1722321007 Biotica Research Today Success Story on CIRC-Cattle BLAD Diagnostic Kit Animal Science 75-76

CIRC-Cattle BLAD Diagnostic Kit is a user-friendly, economical, rapid and specific diagnostic assay for detection of Bovine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (BLAD), a common genetic disorder in breeding bulls/ buffaloes prior to semen collection and its utilization for breeding purposes.

BLAD, Breeding bulls, CIRC-Cattle BLAD, Diagnostic kit NIL 2020-04-17 Success story Rafeeque Rahman Alyethodi, Rajib Deb, Umesh Singh, Sushil Kumar, Rani Alex, Sheetal Sharma, Gyanendra Singh Sengar and B. Prakash

Rafeeque Rahman Alyethodi

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 001), India

Rajib Deb*

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 001), India

Umesh Singh

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 001), India

Sushil Kumar

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 001), India

Rani Alex

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 001), India

Sheetal Sharma

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 001), India

Gyanendra Singh Sengar

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 001), India

B. Prakash

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 001), India

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76 1722321927 Biotica Research Today Veterinary Antibiotics an Emerging Threat to Human Life Animal Science 77-79

The organic manures are the backbone of pesticide free food products and also the same is the culprit to transmit the antibiotics to food chain. The maximum concentrations of Oxytetracycline (OTC), Enrofloxacin (ENRO) and Chlorotetracycline (CTC) in poultry litter were 183 mg kg-1, 83 mg kg-1 and 726 mg kg-1, respectively and 72 mg kg-1, 52 mg kg-1 and 133 mg kg-1 in cowdung, respectively. During the composting process period, the antibiotics viz., OTC, ENRO, CTC were noticed in decreasing trend. The matured poultry manure recorded the OTC, ENRO and CTC concentration of 22, 18 and 162 mg kg-1, respectively whereas the vermicompost recorded the OTC, ENRO and CTC concentration of 12, 10 and 32 mg kg-1, respectively. From the present investigation, the poultry manure recorded more quantity of antibiotics viz., OTC, ENRO and CTC. It is also concluded that the composting process had significant reduction of antibiotic concentration compared to raw materials.

Antibiotics, Composting, Human health NIL 2020-04-17 Popular Article V. Davamani, E. Parameswari and M. Deepasri

V. Davamani*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Deepasri

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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77 1722322555 Biotica Research Today Cucumber Cultivation: A Way to Doubling Farmer’s Income Agriculture 80-81

Cucumber is quite popular vegetable crop in Tripura as well as all over India. One kilogram of cucumber fetches average Rs. 50-60/- per kg in the local markets. Besides, cucumber is an excellent crop used for salad purpose or other occasion because of its high seasonal value. Value increased upto Rs. 70-80 /kg on seasonal occasion. Furthermore, cucumber cultivation demands less fertilization and irrigation requires 2-3 times. The remarkable success achieved by Shri. Uttam Debnath in cucumber cultivation made him a role model for the fellow farmers to emulate and succeed in west naogao, Jirania. Nearby 20-25 farmers are taking advices from Shri Debnath to cultivate their lands into successful cucumber cultivation for their socio-economical upliftment.

Cucumber, Doubling income, Vegetables NIL 2020-04-17 Success story Debashre Bhattacharjee and Anindita Guha

Debashre Bhattacharjee*

ATMA (Old Agartala Block), Agartala, Tripura (799 205), India

Anindita Guha

ATMA (Old Agartala Block), Agartala, Tripura (799 205), India

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78 1722322948 Biotica Research Today Agro-Terrorism: A New Peril towards Global Food Security Agriculture 82-84

In most of the countries, agricultural systems are the backbone of main economic sectors contributing to political stability. In a country, like India, whose economy is largely dependent on agriculture produce and exports, any such malicious attack can grossly destabilise the socio-economic structure. In many countries food price are kept very low due to production efficiencies and disease controls. So, the concept of ‘‘Agro-terrorism” or agricultural terrorism starts to assume vital importance since a disease outbreak in an agricultural system could lose billions of dollars, cause poor production efficiency, drive higher food prices, exports of valuable commodities will be stop, and so create economical instability. What is really needed is to treat the agro-terrorism menace at par with that of other kinds of terror and evolve a well-conceived strategy to deal with it. For this, anti-agro-terrorism models from other countries can be studied and adapted to the Indian situation. Such an effort is worth it even if the threat perception ceases to exist. A constant surveillance against pests and diseases of crops and animals will help combat even natural epidemics that often take a heavy toll on crop and livestock output.

Agro-terrorism, Diseases-pest, Food security NIL 2020-04-17 Popular Article Jayashree Bhattacharjee, Debashre Bhattacharjee and Ipsita Samal

Jayashree Bhattacharjee*

Dept. of Agriculture, Govt. of Tripura, Tripura, India

Debashre Bhattacharjee

Dept. of Agriculture, Govt. of Tripura, Tripura, India

Ipsita Samal

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Division of Entomology, New Delhi (110 001), India

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79 1722323574 Biotica Research Today Soil Physical Constraints and Management Technologies Agriculture 85-86

The alleviation of soil physical constraints limiting crop production is considered important to increase agricultural production and sustaining the productivity of soils. The major soil physical constraints include high soil permeability, soil surface crusting, sub-surface mechanical impedance, and soil hardening. Studies indicated that the management of highly permeable soils such as by compaction increased yields of various crops. Soil surface crusting could be managed by the application of FYM on seed lines at the rate of 4 t/ha. Application of tank silt has improved the physical properties of soil like reduces the bulk density and improved the water holding capacity of the soil.

Fluffy Soil, Management, Soil Constrain, Soil Compaction NIL 2020-04-18 Popular Article M. Yuvaraj

M. Yuvaraj*

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanure, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

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80 1722324026 Biotica Research Today Pests of Black Pepper and Their Management Agriculture 87-89

Black pepper is most important spice of the world and called as "King of Spices”. Several insect and non insect pests cause yield loss in this crop. Among them, Pollu beetle, top shoot borer, marginal leaf gall thrips, scales, mealy bugs and nematodes are worthy to note. These pests can be well efficiently managed by following integrated management tactics viz., field sanitation, cultural, biological and chemical methods.

Black pepper, Insect pests, IPM NIL 2020-04-18 Popular Article T. Sathyan, K. Elanchezhyan and N. Murugesan

T. Sathyan*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, CPPS, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

K. Elanchezhyan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, AC&RI, Killikulam, Tamil Nadu (628 252), India

N. Murugesan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, AC&RI, Killikulam, Tamil Nadu (628 252), India

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81 1722324640 Biotica Research Today Brown Plant Hopper (BPH) and Their Management in Rice Agriculture 90-92

Rice is one of the important cereals of the world particularly in Asian countries and forms staple diet for more than 50 per cent of the population. Brown plant hopper is one of the major culprits for huge economic crop losses of rice. The BPH infestation occurred in all rice growing areas of Asian countries and cause huge yield losses by destruction of the crop. Integrated management of BPH should be followed by combining the availability of resources and economics of farmers. Surveillance and monitoring are the prime strategies to make effective management operations.

BPH, Management Practices, Rice NIL 2020-04-18 Popular Article K. Elanchezhyan, T. Sathyan and K.R. Manikandan

K. Elanchezhyan*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomolgy, Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Killikulam, Vallanadu, Tamil Nadu (628 252), India

T. Sathyan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

K.R. Manikandan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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82 1722325378 Biotica Research Today Spider Silk: Most Versatile Silk Sericulture 93-94

All spiders are predatory eight-legged creatures that have organs to spin silk at the back ends of their bodies. They are the largest part of the Arachnid family, a group that also includes scorpions and ticks. There are about 40,000 known species of spiders. Most spiders use a web to catch their prey, which are usually insects.The most characteristic feature of spiders is their ability to produce silken threads. Applications and uses of spider silk in various fields especially medical, industrial, and armed services is increasing day by day.

Applications, Spider, Silk NIL 2020-04-18 Popular Article K. Elanchezhyan, T. Sathyan and K.R. Manikandan

K. Elanchezhyan*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomolgy, Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Killikulam, Vallanadu, Tamil Nadu (628 252), India

T. Sathyan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

K.R. Manikandan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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83 1722325829 Biotica Research Today Treated Paper Mill Effluent as Alternative Irrigation Source to Crops Agriculture 95-97

The present investigation was carried out to characterize and assess the treated paper mill effluent from the Seshasayee Papers and Boards (SPB) Pvt. Ltd., for physico-chemical and biological properties. Treated paper mill effluent samples were collected from SPB, Pallipalayam, Namakkal District of Tamil Nadu and were analyzed in the Department of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The paper mill effluent collected from SPB, Pallipalayam was light brown in colour. The effluent was found to be neutral in reaction with a pH of 7.87. It recorded an EC of 1.19 dS m-1. The effluent had considerable amount of cations like calcium (46.67 mg L-1), magnesium (19.6 mg L-1), sodium (101.70 mg L-1) and potassium (15.99 mg L-1) along with anions like chloride (127.03 mg L-1), bicarbonate (201.3 mg L-1) and sulphate (88.88 mg L-1), respectively. The BOD and COD values of treated effluent were 17 and 39 mg L-1, respectively. The paper mill effluent supported a considerable amount of microbial population.

Effluent, Paper mill, MLSS NIL 2020-04-18 Popular Article V. Davamani, E. Parameswari, M. Deepasri, S. Paul Sebastian and T. Ilakia

V. Davamani*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Deepasri

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Paul Sebastian

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

T. Ilakia

Dept. of Vegetable Sciences, TNAU, Coimbatore,Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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84 1722407054 Research Biotica A Review of Food and Feeding Habits, Reproductive Biology of Osteobrama cotio (Hamilton, 1822) Agriculture 141-144

Osteobrama cotio (Hamilton, 1822) is known ‘Cotio’ a tropical, benthopelagic, freshwater species under the family Cyprinidae. It is distributed in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Nepal in Asia, and its presence in Mayanmar is questionable. As per IUCN Red List Status, it is categorized as Least Concern (LC), but the species categorized as Endangered (EN) in Bangladesh. In India, O. cotio is distributed in Assam (Brahmaputra drainage), Bihar, Manipur (Barak-Brahmaputra drainage), Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and can grow to a maximum length of 15.0 cm. In the juvenile stages it is mainly fed on phytoplankton, and in growing and adult stages on zooplankton, insects, and detritus. The species is monsoon spawners and breeds during the month of May-July. Being a small indigenous fish, it provides nutritional supplements to a large section of economically backward populations. In this prelude, the present review is aimed to provide detailed information on O. cotio that might be useful to know the species, its potential importance, and suitable conservation measures that may be carried out accordingly.

Conservation status, Food and feeding habits, Freshwater species, Indigenous fish, Osteobrama cotio, Reproductive biology https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/2.4.2020.141-144 2020-11-15 Review Articles Dibakar Bhakta

Dibakar Bhakta*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120) India

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85 1722407768 Research Biotica A Review on Pepper and Their Common Phytochemicals Agriculture 149-153

In the present article reviews novel discoveries associated within the phytochemical analysis and antioxidant activity of piper species. Black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) regard as the "King of spices" is a broadly utilized spice that convenes its own flavor to foods and augmented the flavor of other ingredients. Piper nigram has been extensively investigated for its bioactive phytochemicals. Piper species are essential herbal plants utilized in the traditional medicinal plants. They are traditionally used to treat abdominal pain, rheumatism, diarrhea and other common infections, the effectiveness of which is stated by their bioactive compounds. Current scientific research has established that many of these spices, which are known to have specific pharmacological properties, contain active compounds. The result has been an increase in the requirement for herbal medicines globally, which has led to the realization of advanced new medicines. Most communities in growing countries are deeply involved in the use of medicinal plants owing to the alarming rates of poverty, so this requires scientific support, particularly in reducing their effectiveness in treating such diseases. In their pure compounds or standardized plant extracts, they offer unlimited opportunities for new pharmaceuticals as they are unparalleled in compensating for their chemical diversity. The vitality of natural products is related to the effects of various phytochemicals such as tannins, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, saponins.

Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Piper nigrum, Saponins, Tannins https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/2.4.2020.149-153 2020-12-03 Review Articles Thiyagarajan Gnanasundaram and Thirumal Sivakumar

Thiyagarajan Gnanasundaram*

Dept. of Botany, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu (608 002), India

Thirumal Sivakumar

Dept. of Botany, Thiru A. Govindasamy Govt. Arts College, Tindivanam, Tamil Nadu (604 307), India

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86 1722488424 Biotica Research Today May (2020) Quality Seed Production - A Paradigm Shift towards Sustainable Agriculture Agriculture 106-109

Excessive and ever increasing population is the growing concern from last few years and it is creating major pressure in Agriculture sector of our country. Meeting the adequate food requirement of the huge population is necessary, but due to several adverse factors, production systems are facing many problems. Limited arable land resources, excessive use of chemical fertilizers, land degradation, cultivation with poor quality seeds, lack of proper seed replacement, are some of the major concerns for which not only the production of food materials in sufficient quantity is being affected but also the quality seed production is getting invaded badly. Quality seed is a vital input for crop production. It is the cheapest input and the key to progress towards the development of sustainable agriculture. Response of different inputs and final crop output depends to a large extent on the seed material used for sowing purpose. Thus, for better production, profit and sustainability, use of genetically and physiologically pure, vigorous, climate adaptive and less disease pest prone seeds are required in one hand along with good seed replacement rate, qualitative seed stock, proper seed certification etc. are very much crucial to unfold the potential yield performance of species and varieties and hence, the article is emphasized on the quality seed production in agriculture.

Cheapest input, Quality seed production, Seed replacement rate, Sustainability NIL 2020-04-22 Popular Article Ramyajit Mondal and Saumi Goswami

Ramyajit Mondal*

Dept. of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

Saumi Goswami

Dept. of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

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87 1722489024 Biotica Research Today May (2020) Microgreens - Combacting Malnutrition Problem Agriculture 110-112

As there is a several fold increase in the world population, there must be change in food system for the supply of enough nutrition. The malnutrition problem (hidden hunger) have topped up and affected larger percentage of population globally. Microgreens are the distinct group of vegetable that are identified as a source to overcome the problem of malnutrition. Microgreens are the tiny version of edible young greens with abundant nutrition in them. There are more than 80-100 identified crop varieties that are grown as microgreens. The cultivation aspects of microgreens are easier and are grown for house hold purpose to commercial marketing. The nutrition aspects are higher in microgreens compared to that of matured ones. This article details the aspect of microgreen production and its role to counter the problem of malnutrition.

Microgreens, Malnutrition, Production NIL 2020-04-22 Popular Article T. Ilakiya, E. Parameswari, V. Davamani and E. Prakash

T. Ilakiya*

Dept. of Vegetable Sciences, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V. Davamani

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Prakash

Dept. of Vegetable Sciences, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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88 1722490655 Biotica Research Today May (2020) Small Cardamom Cultivation in India Agriculture 113-115

Small cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) the queen of spices enjoys a unique position in the international spice market. It is often named as the third most expensive spice in the world after cinnamon and clove. The cardamom plants firstly came into existence in the monsoon forests of Western Ghats in southern India as wild herbs. Hot and humid environment prevailing under evergreen rain forests of the Western Ghats is ideal for this crop. In order to raise a cardamom plantation, seedlings or suckers of high yielding varieties are used. Superior quality produce achieved by good cultivation practices and scientific post-harvest management. Proper management of the plantation is the most important factor for successful cultivation of the small cardamom.

Cultivation, Small cardamom, Suckers, Spice NIL 2020-04-23 Popular Article Navya Vishweshwar Bhat and Pavankumar Goudar

Navya Vishweshwar Bhat

Dept. of Fruit Science and Horticulture Technology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar (751 003), India

Pavankumar Goudar*

Dept. of Agronomy, COA, Pasighat, CAU, Imphal, Manipur (791 102), India

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89 1722492120 Biotica Research Today May (2020) Smartphone Apps for Agri-Information Dissemination during Covid19 Lockdown Agriculture 116-119

The use of mobile technologies as a tool of intervention in agriculture is becoming increasingly popular. Smartphone penetration enhances the multi-dimensional positive impact on sustainable poverty reduction and identifies accessibility as the main challenge in harnessing the full potential in agricultural space. Different elements affected the agriculture development; however, the most essential bottlenecks are lack of instant information and drudgery involved in farming practices. To conquer these issues, agriculture should be made more alluring and done smartly. Corona virus (COVID 19) Lockdown harms Agriculture Sector in India, as farmers are unable to get the latest information regarding various agricultural issues, market Status & other relevant information related to the agriculture & allied sector, smartphone apps act an important tool for agricultural information dissemination during this period. There are varieties of mobile applications, utilized over the globe for different segments, including farming, but in our country, the usage is still is limited. In India, there are enormous opportunities for utilizing smartphones as a part of agribusiness improvement. Its utilization is vital for quick growth and easy access to information to Indian agriculturists, farmers, and growers.

Agri-information, COVID, Covid19 Lockdown, Smartphone apps NIL 2020-04-23 Popular Article Subrat Kumar Mahapatra

Subrat Kumar Mahapatra*

College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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90 1722492611 Biotica Research Today May (2020)

Role of Conservation Agriculture in improving Soil Health

Agriculture 120-121

Maintenance of soil health at its optimum level is essential for sustainable crop production and rational use of natural resources without jeopardizing their quality. In recent years, many agricultural scientists across the world have recommended conservation agriculture as a solution to overcome the adverse effects of conventional tillage practices on soil health. Conservation agriculture aims to conserve, improve and make more efficient use of natural resources through integrated management of available soil, water and biological resources combined with external inputs. It contributes to environmental conservation as well as to enhanced and sustained agricultural production. Conservation agriculture is mainly an integration of three crop management practices, viz. minimum or no-tillage, permanent retention of crop residue and crop rotation.

Conservation agriculture, Soil health,Tillage NIL 2020-04-25 Popular Article V. Arunkumar and M. Yuvaraj

V. Arunkumar*

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Yuvaraj

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

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91 1722493098 Biotica Research Today May (2020) De Novo Domestication: Beginning of New Era towards Crop Improvement Agriculture 122-124

Globally, the productivity varies in a great margin and is under threat from genetic erosion and the alarming increase in population led to an immense burden on agriculture. The advent of several key domestication genes alongside the development of trending technologies for accurate manipulation of several target genes simultaneously renders de novo domestication a roadmap towards new era of crop improvement.

Crop, De novo domestication, Genes, Population NIL 2020-04-25 Popular Article Bichhinna Maitri Rout and Dinesh Nagar

Bichhinna Maitri Rout

Division of Vegetable Science, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

Dinesh Nagar*

Division of Fruit Science, RARI, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 018), India

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92 1722494369 Biotica Research Today May (2020) Diseases of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) and its Management Agriculture 129-131

Chickpea infected with various diseases in all growth stages. The pathogens viz., fungi, bacteria, viruses, nematodes and mycoplasma that affect chickpea, which cause severe economic losses globally. Therefore, possible management options are vital to simplify the problem.

Chickpea, Diseases, Management NIL 2020-04-26 Popular Article M. Suganyadevi, M. Pandiyan, R. Sasmitha, M. Sivaji, T. Tilagavathi and M. Yuvaraj

M. Suganyadevi*

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Pandiyan

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

R. Sasmitha

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Sivaji

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

T. Tilagavathi

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Yuvaraj

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

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93 1722504953 Biotica Research Today May (2020) Management of Yellow Stem Borer in Rice Agriculture 146-148

Insect pests are the major constraints in enhancing rice productivity, besides diseases and weeds. They cause 20-30 per cent losses every year. More than hundred species of the insects have been reported attacking the rice crop and 20 of them can cause serious economic loss. Rice stem borers have acquired the status of regular insect pests of rice in most of the rice grown area in the state. Five species in families, crambidae and noctuidae of Lepidoptera have been reported as important stem borer pests of the rice in India. Of these, yellow stem borer, Scirpophaga incertulas is the dominant species across the country. It can be effectively managed by adopting IPM practices including cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical control.

IPM, Rice, Yellow stem borer NIL 2020-04-28 Popular Article K. Elanchezhyan, T. Sathyan and K.R. Manikandan

K. Elanchezhyan*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Killikulam, Vallanadu Tamil Nadu (628 252), India

T. Sathyan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

K.R. Manikandan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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94 1722505698 Biotica Research Today May (2020) Reaping Higher Yields in Rice through Integrated Crop Management Practices Agriculture 149-150

Adoption of integrated crop management practices in rice can improve the yields substantially. Demonstrations conducted in the farmers field of selected cluster villages of coastal Karnataka for a period of two years indicated that the adoption of integrated crop management practices in rice recorded an yield of 53.6 q/ha compared to farmers practice (40.95 q/ha) an increase by 31.6% over a period of two years. There was additional net returns gain by Rs. 24,316/- in demonstration plots compared to check.

Integrated crop management, Rice demonstration, Yield NIL 2020-04-28 Success story Harish Shenoy

Harish Shenoy*

Dept. of Agronomy, Livestock Research and Information Centre (Amrithmahal), Karnataka Veterinary Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Konehalli, Tiptur, Karnataka (572 201), India

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95 1722509743 Research Biotica January-March (2021) Profitability of Paddy Cultivation under Different Level of Mechanization in Mandya District of Karnataka Agriculture 25-27

This study was carried out to assess the comparative cost structure and profitability of paddy cultivation under different level of mechanization in Cauvery command area of Karnataka. 120 respondents were selected randomly and the sample respondents were post-stratified based on the level of farm mechanization. The results revealed that, the cost of cultivation of paddy in the study areas was lower in case of farmers harvesting and threshing using combine harvester (Rs. 75,583.00 ha-1), followed by harvesting manually and threshing mechanically (Rs. 76,239.00 ha-1), harvesting and threshing manually (Rs. 78,125.00 ha-1), respectively. The farmers using combine harvester for harvesting realized increase in net returns in paddy cultivation. The mechanization index in paddy was about 10-40 percent in study area based on the level of farm mechanization. The results clearly depicted the importance of the farm mechanization in realizing additional profit to the farmers.

Harvesting, Mechanization, Net returns, Profitability https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/3.1.2021.25-27 2021-02-25 Short Communication Satishkumar, M. and K.B. Umesh

Satishkumar, M.*

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, Bheemarayanagudi, University of Agriculture Science - Raichur, Karnataka (585 287), India

K.B. Umesh

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, GKVK, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

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96 1722511650 Research Biotica January-March (2021) Mobile SMS Advisories: An Analytical Study among Farmers Agriculture 33-36

Mobile phones play a major role to aid the farmers in promoting production activities. Tamil Nadu is a prime state in India witnessed huge volume of subscribers of mobile agro services from public advisories and also private advisories. Public mobile advisory system in the biggest service provider in Tamil Nadu where the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) and the state department of agriculture are two big monsters providing advisories to the farmers through SMS. The study was conducted in Annur and Kinthukadavu blocks of Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu with a sample of 200 farmers subscribing the SMS based agro advisories. The study revealed that little more than two-third of the respondents (67.50%) were using ordinary mobiles. Majority of the respondents (74.00%) expressed that the technical input on advance warning of weather risks was adequate, With regard to the inadequate services, cent percent of the respondents had expressed that the information on cold storage networks and transportation were inadequate. Most of the respondents (87.00%) expressed that they received relevant of messages on plant protection, With regard to non relevancy of the messages, cent percent of the respondents pointed out messages on cold storage networks and transportation. An overwhelming majority of the respondents (95.50%) had expressed that they received timely messages on advance warning of weather risks, with regard to the untimely messages, advisories on cold storage networks and transportation (100.00%). Cent percent of the respondents’ preferred only text based messages.

Adequacy, Farmers, Mobile phone, Relevancy, Timeliness https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/3.1.2021.33-36 2021-03-05 Short Communication Prabha D. and Arunachalam R.

Prabha D.*

Dept. of Agricultural Extension and Rural Sociology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Arunachalam R.

Dept. of Agricultural Extension and Rural Sociology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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97 1722511988 Research Biotica January-March (2021) Weed Survey in Different Fields of Transplanted Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in North Pulinpur Area under Khowai District of Tripura Agriculture 37-43

The present investigation was carried out during kharif season 2017-18 at North Pulinpur area under Khowai district, Tripura (23°52.836′ N, latitude of 91°35.275′ E, longitude, and 940 m above sea level). North Pulinpur is one of the drought prone areas of Khowai district, Tripura. The area falls under the subtropical hill zone, and the climate is humid. An average annual rainfall ranges from 2050-2550 mm. The soil of the experimental field was sandy loam in texture acidic in reaction with a soil pH of 4.5-5.8 and medium in fertility status with low water holding capacity. Rice field surveyed covering 435 fields of four villages (V-I, II, III and IV) the number of respective field was 102, 141, 75 and 117, respectively. Weeds indicated there were 42 species belonging to 20 families of which 22 species were broad-leaved, 10 grasses, 7 sedges and 3 aquatics. Species diversity ranking of weed community for the villages were Village-II>Village-III>Village-I>Village-IV. Based on Sorenson’s Index of Similarity of the S value is 87.67-102.77%. The highest S value of 102.77% was between Village-I and Village-III, while the lowest value of 87.67% between Village-II and Village-IV. The higher S value indicated that species composition between villages was closely similar and the lower S value indicated species compositions in both villages were diverse. Out of 42 weed species, six species namely Oryza sativa (Weedy rice) followed by Echinochloa crus-galli, Leptochloa chinensis, Cynodon dactylon, Ludwigia hyssopifolia, Fimbristylis milacea were most abundant in all villages with a greater proportion of severe infestation (score of 5:41-50% weed cover).

North Pulinpur area, Oryza sativa L., Transplanted rice, Tripura, Weed, Weed survey https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/3.1.2021.37-43 2021-03-08 Research Articles Lord Litan Debbarma, Dipankar Dey and Dipak Nath

Lord Litan Debbarma*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra - Khowai, Divyodaya, Chebri, Khowai, Tripura (799 207), India

Dipankar Dey

Krishi Vigyan Kendra - Khowai, Divyodaya, Chebri, Khowai, Tripura (799 207), India

Dipak Nath

Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur (795 004), India

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98 1722524475 Biotica Research Today May (2020) Conservation Agriculture Agriculture 156-158

Conservation Agriculture (CA) is a climate change adaptation measure being advanced for small-scale farmers. It is touted as a sustainable adaptation practice that can improve profitability in minimal cultivating areas. Conservation agriculture, in light of no-till, permanent soil cover and their harvest residues and crop rotation, is a productive framework to secure the soil against disintegration and to improve organic matter levels. Conservation Agriculture has just added to the feasible escalation of farming in a several developed and developing regions of the world by improving soil quality and efficiency yet diminishing the level of inputs (power, labour, fertilizers, agrochemicals, and water) required. Following 10 years of reception of conservation agriculture, soil organic matter expanded and the utilization proficiency of inputs expanded likewise. The better use effectiveness of the conservation agriculture frameworks came about because of the consolidated impact of more noteworthy land profitability (25%) and a decrease of energy inputs because of less power and fertilizers required.

Conservation agriculture, Crop rotation, Groundcovers, Tillage NIL 2020-04-29 Popular Article Neelam Singh, Ekta Joshi, Deep Singh Sasode and Namrata Chouhan

Neelam Singh*

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Ekta Joshi

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Deep Singh Sasode

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Namrata Chouhan

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

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99 1722579910 Research Biotica January-March (2021) Phenomics: Approaches and Application in Improvement of Vegetable Crops Agriculture 47-56

Increasing consumption of food, feed, fuel and to meet global food security needs for the rapidly growing human population, raise the necessity to breed high yielding crops that can adapt to the future climate changes, particularly in developing countries. To solve these global challenges, novel approaches are required to identify quantitative phenotypes and to explain the genetic basis of agriculturally important traits. These advances will facilitate the screening of germplasm with high performance characteristics in resource limited environments. High-throughput phenotyping platforms have also been developed that capture phenotype data from plants in a non-destructive manner. In this review, we discuss recent developments of high throughput plant phenotyping infrastructure including imaging techniques and corresponding principles for phenotype data analysis. Phenomics is a way of speeding up phenotyping with the help of high-tech imaging systems and computing power. It has been a practice in plant breeding for selecting the best genotype after studying phenotypic expression in different environmental conditions and also using them in hybridization programs, to develop new improved genotypes.

Application, Genetic variability, Hyperspectral imaging, Phenomics, Traits, Vegetables https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/3.1.2021.47-56 2021-03-15 Review Articles Md. Ramjan, B.N. Hazarika and Naorem Bidyaleima Chanu

Md. Ramjan*

College of Horticulture and Forestry, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh (791 102), India

B.N. Hazarika

College of Horticulture and Forestry, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh (791 102), India

Naorem Bidyaleima Chanu

College of Horticulture and Forestry, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh (791 102), India

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100 1722598118 Research Biotica January-March (2021) Characterization of Newly Developed Crease Resistant and High Drape Soft Silk Fabrics and Confirmation of Chemical Changes using Raman Spectroscopy Sericulture 63-68

Soft silk fabrics are extensively used for the production of dress materials and soft sarees. The perennial problem in soft silk fabrics is the wrinkle and drape ability problems. CSTRI has developed new technology for the production of wrinkle resistant and high drape degummed soft silk fabrics using chemical treatment. In the earlier studies the suitability of the chemical has been confirmed for the improvement of softness of fabrics and standardized the processing conditions. In the present study influence of chemical concentration at different temperatures and duration of treatment were studied. It was found that higher the temperature of treatment the chemical reaction was effective and the fabrics have shown improved drapeability and wrinkle resistant. In order to study the chemical modification on the fabrics, the untreated and untreated at different temperatures were studied for Raman spectroscopy. The Raman spectroscopy data has been analyzed and it could be observed that the chemical treatment at 60 ºC and 75 ºC has shown shift at 1225 and 1650 wave number, which may be attributed to tertiary level molecular structure change in amide I and amide III level due to chemical treatment. Thus the study indicate that using the chemical treatment at high temperatures, the degummed soft silk fabrics could be improved to have better crease recovery, drape, Flexural rigidity and tensile characteristics.

Chemical treatment, Degumming, Raman spectroscopy, Silk industry, Soft silk fabrics https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/3.1.2021.63-68 2021-03-21 Research Articles G. Hariraj, K.M.A. Kadhar, K. Geetanjali and Subhas V. Naik

G. Hariraj*

Central Silk Technological Research Institute, Central Silk Board, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, BTM Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 068), India

K.M.A. Kadhar

Central Silk Technological Research Institute, Central Silk Board, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, BTM Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 068), India

K. Geetanjali

Central Silk Technological Research Institute, Central Silk Board, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, BTM Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 068), India

Subhas V. Naik

Central Silk Technological Research Institute, Central Silk Board, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, BTM Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 068), India

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101 1722598507 Research Biotica January-March (2021) Nature's Own Miracle: Air Plants an Emerging Ornamental Wonder Agriculture 69-73

In the plant kingdom, air plants are indispensable creations of nature and recently gaining popularity. Due to their uniqueness in absorption of water and nutrients through fuzzy trichomes present on leaf surface, that sets them far apart from other plants and belongs to epiphytic group. They have a reputation of being well known accumulators of heavy metals present in the air and therefore, acts as an excellent biomonitors for purifying the atmosphere. In addition to their medicinal values, their appearance itself makes them aesthetic and a signature ornamental plant as they grow dangling in air without any soil as a substrate. These are low maintenance plants as they require watering once or twice in a week. So they make up a good specimen in a florist’s collection of ornamental wonders. This review article highlights interesting facts about air plants, its maintenance and usefulness.

Air plants, Epiphytes, Ornamental, Tillandsia, Trichomes https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/3.1.2021.69-73 2021-03-24 Review Articles Dhanush Swaroop Sadhu and Mahantesha Banvat Netaji Naika

Dhanush Swaroop Sadhu

Kittur Rani Channamma College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka (591 218), India

Mahantesha Banvat Netaji Naika*

Kittur Rani Channamma College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka (591 218), India

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102 1722598916 Research Biotica January-March (2021) Variability and Association Studies in Indian Mustards (Brassica juncea L. Czern and Coss) Agronomy 74-80

A collection of 25 Indian mustard genotypes/ varieties were evaluated during Rabi 2017-18 to study the extent of variation and interrelationship between the yield characters. The analysis of variance indicated highly significance among treatments for all the characters expect silique length, day to 50% flowering and days to 80% maturity. Phenotypic coefficients of variability (PCV) were higher than genotypic coefficients of variability (GCV) for all the characters. Estimates of heritability (broad sense) ranged from 22.59% for days to 50% flowering and 66.79 for seed yield/plant. The expected genetic advance in percent of mean ranged between 2.45% for days to 80% maturity to 28.43% for seed yield per plant. The high heritability coupled with high genetic advance was found for total no. of siliqua per plant, plant height and seed yield/plant. In general, genotypic correlations were higher than phenotypic ones in magnitude for all the characters. The seed yield/plant (g) showed highly significant and positive correlation with total no. of siliquae per plant while significant and negative correlation with days to 80% maturity, number of seeds/siliqua, number of primary branch and siliqua length, at genotypic level. Path coefficient analysis revealed that the highest positive direct effect on seed yield (g) was exhibited by plant height, 1000 seed weight and siliqua length while negative direct effect was recorded with days to 80% maturity, number of seed per siliqua and plant height on seed yield at phenotypic level. Considering the high estimates of different genetic parameters, the present study suggested that Patna Mustard, RH-30, Gujarat Mustard and Varuna are the important varieties and plant height, seed yield/plant and total no. of siliqua/plant to be considered for selecting high yielding mustard genotypes.

Brassica juncea, Genetic variability, Heritability, Mustard, Path analysis, Varieties https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/3.1.2021.74-80 2021-03-27 Research Articles Runa Singh, Alok Kumar Maurya, S.P. Mishra and G.P. Dixit

Runa Singh*

Dept. of Crop Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya, Chitrakoot, Satna, Madhya Pradesh (485 334), India

Alok Kumar Maurya

ICAR-Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 024), India

S.P. Mishra

Dept. of Crop Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya, Chitrakoot, Satna, Madhya Pradesh (485 334), India

G.P. Dixit

ICAR-Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 024), India

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103 1722600805 Research Biotica January-March (2021) Pharmacological Properties and Screening of Antibacterial Activities of Bael (Aegle marmelos L.) Agriculture 81-87

Bael (Aegle marmelos) used as a medicinal plant in the Ayurveda to treat various gastrointestinal diseases in infants and adults. In India, it is locally known as 'Bael'. Various phytochemical constituents of different parts of bael are responsible for hepatoprotective activity, antioxidant activity, antidiabetic activity, analgesic activity and antibacterial activity. Antibacterial screening of medicinal constituents extracted from plant parts with different solvents had vast therapeutic potential which can provide lesser side effects than with synthetic antibiotics. Among the all parts, the fruits were showing premier results against bacterial strains. Phytochemical screening of aqueous, metholic, and chloroform extract of different parts of Aegle marmelos against bacterial strains. The maximum inhibition zones against bacterial strains are dose dependent and extract solvents. The antibacterial activity varied in different parts of bael tree due to the presence of bioactive constituents such as tannins, saponins, terpenoids, alkaloids, skimminine, aegelin, lupeol, cineole, citral, citronellal, cuminaldehyde, eugenol, marmesin, marmelosin, and polyphenols.

Aegle marmelos, Antibacterial, Bael, Bioactive compounds, Pharmacological properties, Solvent https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/3.1.2021.81-87 2021-03-31 Review Articles M.A. Kuchay, D.D. Sharma, Bhawna Kaushal, Suhail Altaf and Vijay Kumar

M.A. Kuchay*

Dept. of Fruit Science, Dr. YSP University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

D.D. Sharma

Dept. of Fruit Science, Dr. YSP University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Bhawna Kaushal

Dept. of Fruit Science, Dr. YSP University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Suhail Altaf

Division of Plant Pathology, SKUAST-Kashmir, Shalimar, Jammu & Kashmir (190 025), India

Vijay Kumar

Dept. of Microbiology, Career Point University, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh (176 041), India

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104 1722609025 Research Biotica April-June (2021) Lime Pelleting to Improve Pulse Production on Acid Soils: Evidence from Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Agriculture 116-120

Liming is the key to success of crop production on acid soils. The practice however has not met wider adoption, due largely to the higher doses of lime requirement. To ascertain the effect of lime pelleting (seed pelleting with lime) vis-a-vis higher doses of lime as required for furrow application and broadcasting, we conducted a greenhouse pot experiment wherein common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) was grown with five treatments: T1: control (no lime), T2: lime pelleting with gum arabic, T3: lime pelleting with rice starch, T4: lime application @ 300 kg ha-1 equivalent dose, and T5: lime application @ 3000 kg ha-1 equivalent dose. Lime pelleting caused 12-14% improvement in crop yield compared to 31 and 38% increments at higher doses of lime application i.e., T4 and T5, respectively, with a commensurate increase in associated yield parameters. Higher leaf chlorophyll content (SPAD index) caused by liming and lime pelleting suggested improved plant nutrition. Rhizosphere pH increased with liming (p≤0.05), with corresponding reductions in exchangeable Al and acidity, but the effects of lime pelleting were discernible only at lower levels of statistical significance (p≤0.2). Contrary to the popular belief, liming reduced soil P availability, implying that the growth stimulation by liming was not caused by increased P availability, but by reduced Al toxicity and ensuing improvement in plant’s nutrient acquisition efficiency. To conclude, lime pelleting is proposed as an alternative low-cost, easily-adoptable technology for reducing lime requirement and for improving pulse productivity on acidic soils.

Aluminium toxicity, French bean, Legumes, Lime requirement, North-eastern India, Seed pelleting https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/3.2.2021.116-120 2021-05-27 Research Articles Manoj Kumar, S. Hazarika, B.U. Choudhury, B.C. Verma, D.J. Rajkhowa, Reshma Shinde, Shikha Yadav and Arvind Kumar

Manoj Kumar*

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

ICAR-RCER, Research Centre for Makhana (RCM), Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

S. Hazarika

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

B.U. Choudhury

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

B.C. Verma

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

CRURRS, ICAR-NRRI, Hazaribagh, Jharkhand (825 301), India

D.J. Rajkhowa

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Reshma Shinde

ICAR-RCER, Research Centre, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 010), India

Shikha Yadav

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Arvind Kumar

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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105 1722615236 Research Biotica April-June (2021) A Review on Agronomic Biofortification for Improving Food and Nutritional Security Agriculture 139-144

Micronutrients are important not only for better productivity of crops, but also essential for sustaining human and animal health. There is a widespread deficiency of micronutrients especially zinc in the Indian soils. Micronutrient malnutrition is known to affect more than half of the world’s population and considered to be among the most serious global challenges to mankind. Malnutrition is of great public health significance in various developing and underdeveloped countries. Deficiency of iron and zinc can cause various severe health issues. Modern plant breeding has been historically focused towards achieving high agronomic yield rather than nutritional quality, and other efforts related to solve the problem have been mainly through industrial fortification or pharmaceutical supplementation. In humans, problems caused due to micronutrient deficiencies can be solved through biofortification. Biofortification is a promising and sustainable agriculture-based strategy to reduce micronutrient deficiency in dietary food substances. Effective biofortification techniques need to be recognized and applied in an effort to enrich the micronutrient content in the staple crops. Foliar fertilization with micronutrients often increases nutrient uptake and efficient allocation in the edible plant parts than soil fertilization, especially in the case of cereals. Agronomic biofortification can be a way to enrich the food crops leading to decreased micronutrient malnutrition in humans. Moreover, it is the most cost effective and sustainable solution for tackling the micronutrient deficiencies as the intake of micronutrients is on a continuing basis with no additional costs to the consumer in the arid-tropics and sub-tropics of developing countries.

Agronomic biofortification, Foliar fertilization, Malnutrition, Micronutrient deficiencies, Nutritional quality https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/3.2.2021.139-144 2021-06-27 Review Articles Sumit Sow and Shivani Ranjan

Sumit Sow*

Dept. of Agronomy, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur, Bihar (813 210), India

Shivani Ranjan

Dept. of Agronomy, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur, Bihar (813 210), India

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106 1722662696 Biotica Research Today Elementary Idea of Tissue Culture Techniques Agriculture 01-02

The technique of plant tissue culture is used to propagate plants in sterile environments, frequently leading to the production of plant clones. Various plant tissue culture techniques offer benefits over traditional propagation methods, such as the capacity to create exact plant clones - even in the absence of seeds and low-germinating seeds, as well as the creation of genetically altered plants free from disease. Because it is the most promising area of biotechnological tools for today's and tomorrow's agriculture, plant tissue culture has taken the lead in the rapidly evolving field of biological research.

Micropropagation, Propagation, Seed culture, Tissue culture NIL 2024-01-03 Popular Article Ashish Kumar, Saurabh Singh, Prabhat Kumar Singh, Ram Milan and N.A. Khan

Ashish Kumar*

Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Saurabh Singh

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Prabhat Kumar Singh

Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Ram Milan

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

N.A. Khan

Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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107 1722664590 Biotica Research Today Melon (Cucumis melo L.): A Horticultural Delicacy Endowing Nutritional Benefits Agriculture 03-05

The Cucurbitaceae family, encompassing about 118 genera and 825 species, is economically, culturally, aesthetically, horticulturally and medicinally significant. Among its cultivated species, melon (Cucumis melo L.) stands out for its immense diversity, with distinct groups based on horticultural usage. This article explores the morphological characteristics, nutritional value and uses of melon, emphasizing its potential health benefits. Melon, a warm-season crop, requires specific climate and soil conditions for optimal growth. Breeding objectives focus on medium-sized fruits with high sugar content, while cultivation practices address disease resistance and efficient water management. The nutritional composition of melon and its various uses, both fresh and processed, contribute to its popularity as a dessert and a health-promoting food. Overall, melons offer a rich source of essential nutrients and their diverse attributes make them valuable for enhancing human health.

Health benefits, Horticultural usage, Melon (Cucumis melo L.), Nutritional composition NIL 2024-01-05 Popular Article Koku K. Tara, Neha Sharma and R. Vishal

Koku K. Tara*

Division of Vegetable Science, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Neha Sharma

Division of Vegetable Science, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

R. Vishal

Division of Vegetable Science, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

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108 1722665905 Biotica Research Today Push and Pull Method of Insect Pest Management: A Sustainable Approach to Crop Protection Agriculture 06-08

The push and pull method of pest management is an approach which employs attractant (pull) and repellent (push) crops to modify pest behaviour. It is a pest management strategy which is environmentally sound, economically viable, socially acceptable and a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides. The push and pull method encompasses various components, including cultural practices, trap crops, repellent crops, physical barriers, pheromone traps, sticky traps, biological control, semiochemicals and essential oils. These components contribute to the method's versatility and efficacy in diverse agricultural settings. It is not only effective in managing insect pests but also promotes sustainable agriculture practices by reducing the use of harmful chemicals. This article explores the push and pulls method, an innovative and sustainable approach to pest management.

Crop protection, Pest management, Push and pull method, Sustainable approach NIL 2024-01-08 Popular Article Sandip Patra, Rumki H. Ch. Sangma, K. Kuotsu, P. Baiswar and Binay K. Singh

Sandip Patra*

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Rumki H. Ch. Sangma

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

K. Kuotsu

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

P. Baiswar

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Binay K. Singh

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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109 1722668694 Research Biotica July-September (2021) Biochar Designed with Secondary Metabolites: Sustainable Agro-Technology against Abiotic and Biotic Stress Agriculture 164-169

Utilization of biochar i.e., solid product obtained through pyrolysis of biomass is captivating global interest in agricultural prospective. Along with reduction in anthropogenic emission of greenhouse gases and bioremediation of natural resources, biochar as a soil amendment also upgrade the nutrient retention, soil tilth and rhizospheric microbial community. To enhance the benign effects of biochar in crop production, designed biochar has been produced by the immobilization of fertilizers and biocontrol agents on biochar according to the specific requirements. Several studies mentioned different virtues of designed biochar that includes antagonistic potential, plant growth promoting attributes and the ability to activate the induced systemic response against foliar pathogens during field trials. Due to complications regarding the efficacy faced by whole organism formulations of biocontrol agents, secondary metabolites has emerged as promising substitute with target specificity, invulnerable to geographical locations, longer shelf life, resistant against climatic conditions and large scale production. Metabolites obtained from biocontrol agents against abiotic and biotic stresses have proved their potential in antagonistic and plant growth promoting abilities. The objective of this article is to devise the combination of biochar with specific metabolites and to glean maximum advantages in our agro ecosystems.

Antagonistic potential, Designed biochar, Plant growth promoting attributes, Secondary metabolites, Stress conditions, Sustainable alternative https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/3.3.2021.164-169 2021-09-19 Review Articles Jyoti Singh and Abhilasha Tripathi

Jyoti Singh*

Dept. of Botany, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Abhilasha Tripathi

Dept. of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 016), India

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110 1722672401 Research Biotica October-December (2021) A Study on Media Preferences of Dairy Farmers in Hilly District Reasi of J&K Animal Science 184-187

In present era information channels play the crucial role in the transfer of technology among the farmers. Presently the Indian extension system is under tremendous pressure because the extension functionaries have to cater not only the vast population but also to perform administrative, election, input supply and other works. Under these circumstances, it is not practically possible to serve all the farmers, all the time for all the problems when ratio of extension worker and farmer, the sender and receiver is more than 1:1000. Thus, the potential of mass media can be exploited to serve the rural population in this direction. Dairy is an important occupation for the farmers of hilly areas of J&K. In order to increase the milk production of dairy animals, it is necessary that the dairy farmers of hilly areas should adopt the latest dairy farming technologies and the latest information on modern dairy technologies can be disseminated by the different sources. In order to know the media preferences of dairy farmers residing in hilly district Reasi of J&K, the present study was conducted in hilly district Reasi of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir which was selected purposively. A sample of 20 percent (150) farmers was selected randomly from the selected villages. A list of different sources of dairy information was prepared and farmers were asked to indicate their preferences on a three point scale. It was found that KVK extension personnel and Livestock Extension Personnel were highly preferred by the dairy farmers.

Dairy farmers, Hilly areas, KVK, Media preferences https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.3.4.2021.184-187 2021-12-02 Research Articles Banarsi Lal and Vikas Tandon

Banarsi Lal*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Reasi, (SKUAST-Jammu), Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir (182 301), India

Vikas Tandon

Dept. of Biotechnology, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology (SKUAST-J), Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir (180 009), India

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111 1722672516 Biotica Research Today Autophagy: Versatility and Essentiality in Cellular Homeostasis and Beyond Agriculture 30-32

Autophagy, governed by autophagy-related genes (ATGs), is essential for cellular homeostasis. It impacts diverse cellular functions, including development, reproduction, metabolism, hormone signaling, cell death, senescence, and stress responses. The article delves into macro-autophagy, micro-autophagy, and chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA), emphasizing cargo specificity. Bulk autophagy engulfs cellular constituents indiscriminately, while selective autophagy targets specific proteins or organelles. In plants, stress-induced selective autophagy involves regulators like BES1 and TSPO. The intricate machinery of macro-autophagy in plants, driven by ATG proteins, participates in lipid transfer, phagophore formation, and autophagosome-vacuole fusion. Initiation mechanisms, including ATG9 vesicles, ATG2-ATG18 complexes, and phosphatidylinositol synthase-enriched ER subdomains, are explored. The review scrutinizes autophagy's role in virus infection, emphasizing its protective function against cell death and its dual impact on anti-viral and pro-viral responses. Silencing ATG genes compromise plant immunity, while certain viruses exploit autophagy for infection. Understanding autophagy's regulation informs therapeutic interventions and agricultural applications, highlighting its versatility and essentiality.

Autophagy machinery, Autophagosome, Programmed cell death, Plant-virus interactions NIL 2024-01-25 Popular Article Berryish Metha C., Eniya A. and Samuel P.

Berryish Metha, C.*

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Eniya A.

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Centre for Plant Protection Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Samuel P.

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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112 1722691506 Biotica Research Today Impact of Climate Change on Weed Flora Shift Agriculture 36-38

Over the past few decades, climate change has spurred significant changes in the weed flora within the arable biosphere of India. This impact is not direct but rather indirect, as climate change compels adaptations in agronomic practices. For successful strategies in weed control while maximizing crop yield, it is crucial to possess a comprehensive understanding of these transformative processes. Growing concerns revolve around the potential impacts of global CO2 enrichment in weeds and crop yields. Due to the impacts of climate change, there is a probable alteration in life cycles, phenology and infestation pressure. Certain weed species may be at risk of extinction, whereas others might exhibit increased aggressiveness as invaders. Comprehensive studies are of vital importance to assess the collective interactive effects of climate change factors. Such research will aid in predicting how weed-related challenges may evolve within the context of a changing climate scenario.

Climate change, Crop-Weed competition, Weed flora, Weed shift NIL 2024-01-28 Popular Article Meghna Sarma and Mokidul Islam

Meghna Sarma*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra-Ri Bhoi, ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Mokidul Islam

Krishi Vigyan Kendra-Ri Bhoi, ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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113 1722693965 Research Biotica January-March (2022) Soil Nutrient Dependency of Biochemical Pathways for Synthesis of Plant Compounds Agriculture 01-04

Micronutrient deficiency has been linked to various human diseases. Crops grown in mineral-depleted soils may have reduced food quality as measured by nutrient density because of any deficient minerals and a potential impaired ability to synthesize compounds essential to human health, including vitamins. Until recently, micronutrient density was not clearly understood and may have silently crept through the food chain, exacerbating various modern human diseases. We believe investigating the critical roles of soil micronutrients, especially magnesium (Mg) and zinc (Zn) in vitamin synthesis and function is urgently needed.

Biochemical pathways, Magnesium, Micronutrients, Soil nutrient status, Zinc https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.4.1.2022.01-04 2022-01-25 Short Communication Walton Sumner and Sougata Bardhan

Walton Sumner

Argillic Horizon, 7 Old Westbury Lane, St. Louis (63119), USA

Sougata Bardhan*

306A Foster Hall, College of Agriculture, Environment, and Human Sciences, Lincoln University, Jefferson City (65101), USA

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114 1722696786 Biotica Research Today February (2024) Protein Linkers: Catalysts for Innovations in Recombinant Fusion Proteins across Industries Agriculture 60-62

This article explores the pivotal role of protein linkers in constructing stable and bioactive recombinant fusion proteins, showcasing their diverse applications across industries. Three linker categories: flexible, rigid and in vivo cleavable; address specific construction needs. Flexible linkers, rich in small or polar amino acids, offer mobility for interacting domains. Rigid linkers, characterized by α-helices or proline-rich sequences, efficiently separate functional domains. Cleavable linkers enable in vivo domain release, enhancing chimeric protein bioactivity and targeted drug delivery. Linker selection criteria consider system-specific nuances and contribute to the strategic construction of functional chimeric proteins. Linkers enhance folding and stability and modulate expression levels, influencing bioactivity and pharmacokinetic profiles. Fusion proteins find diverse applications, from protein purification to cancer diagnostics and agricultural improvement. Effective linkers contribute to drug conjugate efficiency, exemplified by Fc-fusion proteins. Overall, the review highlights linkers' critical role in advancing recombinant fusion proteins across scientific and medical domains.

Agricultural improvement, Pharmacokinetic profiles, Protein linkers, Recombinant fusion protein NIL 2024-02-16 Popular Article Berryish Metha C., Samuel Peter, Bishnupriya Gauda and Dhanvarsha M.

Berryish Metha C.*

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Samuel Peter

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Bishnupriya Gauda

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Dhanvarsha M.

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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115 1722746220 Biotica Research Today February (2024) Exploring India's Blue Economy: Opportunities and Challenges for a Sustainable and Resilient Future Agriculture 63-66

The concept of the Blue Economy, which focuses on sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, has gained significant attention globally. This paper delves into the exploration of India's Blue Economy, analyzing the opportunities and challenges it presents for fostering sustainability and resilience. As India seeks to harness the untapped potential of its coastal and marine resources, the paper examines the various opportunities that the Blue Economy provides for economic development, job creation and technological innovation. Moreover, climate change, overfishing, pollution and inadequate regulatory frameworks are among the challenges that must be addressed to ensure the long-term viability of India's Blue Economy. Furthermore, the paper explores policy implications and potential strategies to overcome these challenges, advocating for a comprehensive and integrated approach that involves collaboration between government, industry and local communities.

Blue Economy, Economic development, Marine resources, Sustainability NIL 2024-02-20 Popular Article Supra Subhadarsani, Jayshree Padhi, Monalisha Rana, Lopamudra Behuria, Priyadarsini Parida, Debadurlabha Sahoo, Soubhagya Ranjan Khuntia, Manaswini Mahapatra and Jyoti Prakash Sahoo

Supra Subhadarsani

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Jayshree Padhi

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Monalisha Rana

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Lopamudra Behuria

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Priyadarsini Parida

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Debadurlabha Sahoo

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Soubhagya Ranjan Khuntia

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Manaswini Mahapatra

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

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116 1722746836 Biotica Research Today February (2024) Application of Genome Sequencing in Fisheries and Aquaculture Agriculture 67-69

Genome sequencing is an old yet unexploited avenue in the fisheries sector. It has incorporated around 594 species which is increasing as we are speaking. It has opened the path for taxonomy, selective breeding, conservation, phylogeny, production and sustainable fisheries. It has been done in many fish species of global commercial importance like catla, rohu, puffer fish, zebra fish, atlantic salmon and rainbow trout etc. and many more are still under investigation. Genomics technologies have the flexibility of integration with ‘omics’ approach and other aspects in fisheries sector, with so much potential beyond the current constraints that are preventing aquaculture from reaching its new heights. Still, many more limitations in the current genome sequencing system need to be addressed.

Aquaculture, Fisheries, Genome sequencing, Next generation sequencing NIL 2024-02-22 Popular Article Yadvesh Ranvir Singh, Samikshya Mishra and Debiprasad Kantal

Yadvesh Ranvir Singh

Dept. of Fish Genetics and Breeding, College of Fisheries, CAU (Imphal), Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

Samikshya Mishra*

Fish Nutrition, Biochemistry and Physiology Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Debiprasad Kantal

Aquatic Environment Management Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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117 1722747395 Biotica Research Today Unveiling the Shadows: A Comprehensive Review of Ghost Fishing Impact Evaluation and Management Strategies Agriculture 70-73

The unintentional capture of marine life by abandoned fishing gear, or "ghost fishing," seriously jeopardizes marine ecosystems and economies across the world. This essay looks about ghost fishing's sources, impacts and management strategies. Ghost gear, which includes nets, lines and traps, can destroy ecosystems, injure natural places and ensnare and kill a variety of marine life. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) admits that the consequences of ghost fishing on marine environments have expanded over time. Empirical studies reveal that ghost gear has an annual impact on thousands of marine species, underscoring the pressing necessity for intervention. Ghost fishing is decreased by the application of management strategies including education, gear technological advancements and retrieval programs. However, because there are no set standards and underwater environments are complicated, assessing the effects of ghost fishing is difficult. To successfully prevent ghost fishing and protect marine biodiversity, innovative methods are required. This review summarizes current research to offer a thorough overview of the problem and make recommendations for more study and action.

Assessment, Evaluation, Gear, Ghost fishing NIL 2024-03-05 Popular Article Gaurav N. Lanjewar, Shweta A. Sonawane, Digvijay D. Chauhan, Omkar A. Kode and Saurabh A. Rawool

Gaurav N. Lanjewar*

College of Fisheries, Shirgaon, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra (415 629), India

Shweta A. Sonawane

College of Fisheries, Shirgaon, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra (415 629), India

Digvijay D. Chauhan

College of Fisheries, Shirgaon, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra (415 629), India

Omkar A. Kode

College of Fisheries, Shirgaon, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra (415 629), India

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118 1722777949 Research Biotica January-March (2022) Natural Farming - A Sustainable Ecological Approach Agriculture 05-20

Natural Farming is a chemical free traditional agro-ecology based diversified farming system which integrates crops, trees and livestock with functional biodiversity. Natural farming increases production, saves water, improves soil health and farmland ecosystems. It is considered as a cost effective farming practices with scope for raising employment and rural development. Types on natural farming includes Fertility farming, Organic Farming, Sustainable agriculture, Agro-ecology, Agroforestry, Ecoagriculture and Permaculture rely on principles of no tillage, no fertilizer, no pesticides or herbicides, no weeding and no pruning depending upon local climate and conditions.

Agro-ecology, Agro-forestry, Diversified farming, Ecosystems, Organic farming, Sustainable agriculture https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.1.2022/05-20 2022-02-05 Review Articles L.C. De

L.C. De*

ICAR-NRC for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

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119 1722778304 Research Biotica January-March (2022) Nutrient Concentrations and Their Total Uptake as Affected by Liquid Bio-Fertilizers in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Agriculture 21-25

A field experiment entitled “Nutrient concentrations and their total uptake as affected by liquid bio-fertilizers in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)" was conducted during kharif season of 2017 at research farm, COA, Gwalior on sandy clay loam soil to study the response of groundnut to chemical fertilizers and liquid bio-formulations. Four fertility levels viz., 25, 50, 75 and 100% RDF and three biofertilizer inoculation viz., no bio-formulations (B1), liquid Bio-NPK + Zn solubilizing bacteria (B2) and bio-grow (B3) to groundnut in 12 treatment combinations replicated thrice in split plot design. The yield and nutrient concentrations and their total uptake (N, P, K, Zn) was significantly highest with 100% RDF and liquid Bio-NPK + Zn solubilizing bacteria. However, their interaction had no significant influence on these parameters. But the highest values were observed when 100% RDF was applied in combination with liquid Bio-NPK + Zn solubilizing bacteria.

Groundnut, Interaction, Nutrient, Uptake, Zinc https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.1.2022/21-25 2022-03-01 Research Articles Neelam Singh, Ekta Joshi, D.S. Sasode, Roop Singh Dangi and Namrata Chouhan

Neelam Singh*

Dept. of Agronomy, RVSKVV, College of Agriculture, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Ekta Joshi

Dept. of Agronomy, RVSKVV, College of Agriculture, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

D.S. Sasode

Dept. of Agronomy, RVSKVV, College of Agriculture, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Roop Singh Dangi

Dept. of Agronomy, RVSKVV, College of Agriculture, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Namrata Chouhan

Dept. of Agronomy, RVSKVV, College of Agriculture, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

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120 1722779133 Research Biotica January-March (2022) Performance of Vanaraja vs. Kamrupa Birds under Backyard System Animal Science 26-28

The present study was conducted at farmer’s field to evaluate performance of Vanaraja and Kamrup crossbred poultry under backyard system. The day old chicks of both birds were kept in artificial brooding at the KVK farm complex to ensure uninterrupted power supply round the clock up to 1 month to reduce chick mortality. After one month, chicks were supplied to farmers of adopted villages to establish 28 numbers of units (one unit per household) with 14 numbers of birds unit-1. Body weight gain at monthly interval upto 6 months of age and egg production parameters were taken accordingly. It was found that both Vanaraja and Kamrupa were found good by the farmers with slightly little edge of Vanaraja over Kamrupa. Depending on the observations, actions were taken by the KVK to popularize both the breeds equally in the district afterwards.

Backyard, Kamrupa, Performance, Vanaraja https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.1.2022/26-28 2022-03-19 Short Communication H.K. Bhattacharyya, S. Baruah, S. Sarma, S.B. Saikia, H.C. Saikia and K.B. Chetry

H.K. Bhattacharyya*

Livestock Research Station, Assam Agricultural University, Hekra-Mandira, Kamrup (R), Assam (781 127), India

S. Baruah

Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Assam Agricultural University (AAU), Romai-Kardoibam, Dibrugarh, Assam (786 010), India

S. Sarma

Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Assam Agricultural University (AAU), Romai-Kardoibam, Dibrugarh, Assam (786 010), India

S.B. Saikia

Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Assam Agricultural University (AAU), Romai-Kardoibam, Dibrugarh, Assam (786 010), India

H.C. Saikia

Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Assam Agricultural University (AAU), Romai-Kardoibam, Dibrugarh, Assam (786 010), India

K.B. Chetry

Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Assam Agricultural University (AAU), Romai-Kardoibam, Dibrugarh, Assam (786 010), India

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121 1722779973 Research Biotica January-March (2022) Population Dynamics of Thrips Infesting Bt Cotton in Relation to Weather Factors Sericulture 29-32

Population dynamics of thrips, Thrips tabaci Lindemann and their correlation with weather factors were investigated during 2017 to 2019 at ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Tamil Nadu. The incidence of thrips was recorded from the 39th SMW (Standard Meteorological Week) and peaked at 43rd SMW with the range of 0.7 to 14.7 thrips leaf-1 in 1st season (Kharif 2017-18). At the second season (Summer 2018), thrips incidence occurred at the 10th SMW and thrips population peaked in the 14th SMW and varied between 1.5 and 15.8 thrips leaf-1. Thrips incidence started during the 39th SMW during the third season (Kharif 2018-19). The thrips population peaked in the 42nd SMW, ranging from 1.4 to 11.2 thrips leaf-1. After reaching its peak, thrips population was constantly decreased. Correlation matrix revealed that thrips population correlated positively with minimum temperature, maximum temperature and relative humidity although there was a negative association with rainfall. These findings will be useful for evolving appropriate management practices for thrips.

Cotton, Population dynamics, Thrips, Weather factors https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.1.2022/29-32 2022-03-27 Short Communication M. Amutha

M. Amutha*

ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Regional Station, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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122 1722921782 Research Biotica April-June (2022) Assessment of Product Yield and Characteristics of Biocrude from Hydrothermal Liquefaction Agriculture 42-46

Biomass is a promising renewable energy source for fuel conversion. Hydrothermal liquefaction technology converts biomass into an energy-rich biofuel called biocrude which can potentially substitute fossil fuels. In this study, wet biomass namely water hyacinth, banana pseudostem, banana peduncle, wine waste and beer waste were investigated for biocrude production. The biomass macro molecules underwent anaerobic thermochemical disintegration to yield biocrude in the range of 7.3 to 16% at the hydrothermal liquefaction temperature and pressure of 275 ºC and 15 MPa respectively. Wine waste showed higher biocrude yield (16%) among the selected biomass materials with aqueous phase (63%) and char (3%) as by products. The recovered biocrude showed good quality fuel properties similar to diesel and bio-diesel with heating value of about 30 MJ kg-1. GCMS and FTIR analyses proved the biocrude to be rich in aliphatic and aromatic fuel and chemical derivatives of alkenes, alcohols, ketones and amines which necessitate its potential to drop in advanced fuels and chemicals for supplementing conventional resources.

Biocrude, FTIR, GC-MS, Hydrothermal liquefaction, Wet biomass, Wine waste https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.2.2022/42-46 2022-05-03 Research Articles R. Divyabharathi and P. Subramanian

R. Divyabharathi*

Dept. of Renewable Energy Engineering, Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

P. Subramanian

Dept. of Renewable Energy Engineering, Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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123 1722921874 Biotica Research Today Polychaete Worms: The Anticipated Advantages of Aquaculture's Broodstock Development Agriculture 107-109

Polychaete worms, a diverse group of marine organisms, have garnered increasing attention in recent years for their potential as broodstock in aquaculture systems. Polychaetes offer several unique characteristics that make them promising candidates for this role. Firstly, their reproductive biology is adaptable, with many species exhibiting high fecundity rates and rapid larval development, which could significantly enhance aquaculture production efficiency. Secondly, polychaetes possess a diverse array of nutritional profiles, making them suitable as feed for various aquaculture species, thereby contributing to sustainable feed solutions and reducing reliance on wild-caught sources. Additionally, Polychaetes thrive in a range of environmental conditions and tolerance to fluctuations in water quality positions them as resilient candidates for aquaculture systems, potentially reducing risks associated with disease outbreaks or environmental stressors. In conclusion, the development of polychaete worms as broodstock holds significant promise for the aquaculture industry, offering opportunities to improve production efficiency, sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Aquaculture, Broodstock development, Polychaete worms, Sustainability NIL 2024-03-23 Popular Article A. Jackqulinwino and B. Ahilan

A. Jackqulinwino*

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, (Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam), Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

B. Ahilan

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, (Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam), Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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124 1722922516 Biotica Research Today Microbe-Assisted Plant Breeding: A Paradigm Shift for Sustainable Agriculture Agriculture 110-112

Microbe-assisted plant breeding (MAPB) revolutionizes agriculture by leveraging microbes for enhanced growth and sustainability. MAPB accelerates breeding, optimizes yields and reduces synthetic input dependence by recognizing bacteria, fungi, and viruses as pivotal contributors to plant development. The core microbiome, integral to plant holobiont, provides crucial functional genes. MAPB introduces genetic variability, supports resistance breeding and follows a systematic workflow for success. The study of soil-borne pathogen resistance in common beans unveils intricate rhizosphere dynamics. Overall, MAPB reshapes agriculture, promotes precision breeding and sustainability and reduces reliance on synthetic inputs concisely and impactfully.

Genetic variability, Holobiont, Microbe assisted plant breeding, Synthetic input NIL 2024-03-24 Popular Article Berryish Metha, C.

Berryish Metha, C.*

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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125 1722923922 Research Biotica April-June (2022) Effects of High Temperature Stress on Physiological and Yield Parameters of Mulberry Varieties Agriculture 58-61

High temperature causes alteration in physiological and yield parameters of mulberry plant. The present study was conducted to examine the tolerance/ susceptibility of five popularly cultivated mulberry varieties viz., V1, G2, G4, MR2 and S36 exposed to high temperature stress. The varieties were maintained in Open Top Chambers (OTCs) at 40 ºC for two weeks. It is found that the variety V1 was tolerant to high temperature stress followed by MR2 and S36. After 14 days of high temperature stress, significant differences were observed among the varieties for leaf yield per plant under control and stress conditions compared to control and 7th day after stress. The variety G2 and G4 recorded highest reduction in Total Dry Matter Accumulation (TDMA) (55.60% and 55.96%) at 14th day after stress. Whereas, the lowest reduction percent of TDMA was recorded in V1 (23.06%) followed by MR2 (30.80%) and S36 (36.76%) compared over its control values at 14th day after stress.

High temperature, Leaf yield, Mulberry varieties, Total dry matter accumulation https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.2.2022/58-61 2022-06-06 Research Articles S. Ranjith Kumar, G. Swathiga, R. Ramamoorthy and D. Vijayalakshmi

S. Ranjith Kumar*

Dept. of Sericulture, Forest College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Mettupalayam, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

G. Swathiga

Dept. of Sericulture, Forest College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Mettupalayam, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

R. Ramamoorthy

Dept. of Sericulture, Forest College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Mettupalayam, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

D. Vijayalakshmi

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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126 1722924778 Biotica Research Today Revolutionizing Agriculture by Unlocking the Potential of Artificial Intelligence Agriculture 120-123

Traditionally, agriculture has been a labor-intensive industry, heavily reliant on human effort and manual labor. The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping this narrative. AI is introducing automation and precision into farming practices, leading to increased efficiency and productivity. AI-powered robots are now capable of performing practices such as seed sowing, watering the crops and harvesting the produce. Furthermore, AI algorithms possess the capability to scrutinize extensive data sets sourced from diverse outlets like weather forecasts, soil sensors, and satellite imagery, which enables them to furnish farmers with meticulous guidance regarding planting times, irrigation quantities, and harvest schedules. Such guidance not only enhances resource utilization but also amplifies crop yields. However, AI-powered drones equipped with advanced imaging capabilities can scan large tracts of farmland to identify signs of pest infestation or disease outbreak. In essence, AI is transforming agriculture from a labor-intensive sector into a knowledge-intensive one.

Artificial Intelligence, Agriculture, Precision farming, Sustainability NIL 2024-03-27 Popular Article Monalisha Rana, Anshita Sahu, Himadri Tanaya Mukhi, Manisha Sahoo, Rashmi Sarkar, Sayantan Senapati, Manaswini Mahapatra and Jyoti Prakash Sahoo

Monalisha Rana

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Anshita Sahu

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Himadri Tanaya Mukhi

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Manisha Sahoo

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Rashmi Sarkar

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Sayantan Senapati

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Manaswini Mahapatra

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

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127 1722925846 Research Biotica April-June (2022) Determination of Growth-Stage-Specific Crop Coefficients (Kc) for Drip Irrigated Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Different Land Configurations Agriculture 69-73

D.D. Vadalia*

Centre of Excellence on Soil and Water Management, Research Testing and Training Centre, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

G.V. Prajapati

Centre of Excellence on Soil and Water Management, Research Testing and Training Centre, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

S.H. Parmar

Centre of Excellence on Soil and Water Management, Research Testing and Training Centre, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

G.D. Gohil

Dept. of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Broad bed Furrow, Crop coefficient, Drip irrigation, Land configuration, Wheat https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.2.2022/69-73 2022-06-16 Research Articles D.D. Vadalia, G.V. Prajapati, S.H. Parmar and G.D. Gohil

D.D. Vadalia*

Centre of Excellence on Soil and Water Management, Research Testing and Training Centre, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

G.V. Prajapati

Centre of Excellence on Soil and Water Management, Research Testing and Training Centre, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

S.H. Parmar

Centre of Excellence on Soil and Water Management, Research Testing and Training Centre, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

G.D. Gohil

Dept. of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

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128 1722927536 Research Biotica April-June (2022) Comparison of Organic Fertilizer vs. Inorganic Fertilizer on the Growth of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Agriculture 82-85

Chemical fertilizers have been utilized extensively over last five to six decades. They significantly contribute in damaging the ecosystem, including the soil properties and the health of the future generation. Organic farming is employed as a substitute to obtain better and healthier output. To increase output and replenish soil fertility without harming the environment or having any negative impacts on human health, organic fertilizers such as sawdust, cow dung and cow urine are used instead of chemical fertilizers. Nowadays, organic farming is widely practiced around the world. Efforts were made to study the effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). Experiment was conducted in pots with four treatments i.e., control (water and soil), organic (cow dung, cow urine, sawdust), inorganic (NPK) and mixture of organic and inorganic. The parameters observed were stem height, number of leaves and the length of leaves. Antimicrobial activity of cucumber leaves, seeds and cow urine was checked on different bacterial strains including E. coli, Pseudomonas sp. and Salmonella sp. Phytochemical analysis was conducted to analyze the presence of alkaloid, carbohydrate, tannins, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenol and anthraquinone content in cucumber. In comparison to alternative treatments, organic cucumber cultivation produces higher growth rates. Cow urine was more effective against E. coli, moderate against Pseudomonas and resist against Salmonella. The seed extract of cucumber was more effective against Salmonella and less effective against E. coli. The leaf extract is more effective against Pseudomonas and less effective against E. coli. In cucumber leaves alkaloids, carbohydrate, tannins, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenol and anthraquinone content are present.

Compost, Cucumber, Manure, Organic fertilizers, Sustainable Environment https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.2.2022/82-85 2022-06-26 Short Communication Divya Tandon, Anjali Kumari, Amrita Sharma and Vaishali Mehta

Divya Tandon

Dept. of Microbiology, SILB, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 212), India

Anjali Kumari*

Dept. of Microbiology, SILB, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 212), India

Amrita Sharma

Dept. of Microbiology, SILB, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 212), India

Vaishali Mehta

Dept. of Microbiology, SILB, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 212), India

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129 1722930135 Biotica Research Today The Transformative Role of Biofortification in Agriculture: Nourishing the World with Enhanced Crops Agriculture 135-137

Biofortification, the process of enhancing the nutrient richness of staple crops, holds immense potential for addressing hidden hunger and improving global nutrition. This article explores the significance of biofortification in agriculture, highlighting its role in combatting malnutrition, promoting food security and fostering sustainable agricultural practices. Through conventional breeding or genetic engineering, biofortified crops are enriched with essential vitamins and minerals, offering a cost-effective and scalable solution to nutrient deficiencies. The article discusses recent advancements, challenges and opportunities in biofortification, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to maximize its impact on public health and development. By integrating biofortified crops into existing agricultural systems and promoting consumer awareness, biofortification can contribute significantly to developing resilient and diverse food systems that support human nutrition and environmental sustainability.

Biofortification, Global nutrition, Hidden hunger, Sustainable agriculture NIL 2024-03-31 Popular Article Badal Verma, Muskan Porwal and A.K. Jha

Badal Verma*

Dept. of Agronomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

Muskan Porwal

Dept. of Agronomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

A.K. Jha

Dept. of Agronomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

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130 1722930565 Biotica Research Today Harnessing the Power of Natural Farming in Floriculture: A Blossoming Revolution Agriculture 138-140

Natural farming in floriculture revolves around the principles of minimal intervention and reliance on natural processes. It emphasizes soil health, biodiversity conservation and ecosystem resilience. Unlike conventional methods that heavily depend on chemical fertilizers, pesticides and synthetic growth regulators, natural farming embraces practices such as composting, crop rotation, companion planting and biological pest control. As consumer demand for ethically produced and environmentally friendly floral products, the adoption of natural farming in floriculture holds promise for a greener and more sustainable floral industry.

Bio-formulations, Floriculture, Natural farming, Soil health NIL 2024-03-31 Popular Article Sahil Lohia and Arushi Garg

Sahil Lohia

Dept. of Seed Science and Technology, Dr. YS Parmar UHFS, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Arushi Garg*

Dept. of Floriculture and Landscaping, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

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131 1722934694 Research Biotica The Physio-Morphic Characters of Different Okra Germplasm and their Relationship with the Population Dynamics of Okra Leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida) Agriculture 119-123

The reactions of twenty five (25) accessions of okra were evaluated under field conditions against Leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula. The experiment was conducted at NBPGR, regional station Hyderabad. Among twenty five germplasm (25) screened against the okra leafhopper, IC344596 recorded significantly lowest leafhopper population which was followed by RJR-124, PSRJ12952, NIC 9402 and IC433667. PSRJ 13040 and RJR-193 recorded high population of leafhopper. RJR-124, PSRJ12952 and IC344596 recorded significantly highest number of trichomes of 57.00, 47.67 and 42.33 trichomes m-2, respectively. RJR-193 and PSRJ 13040 recorded significantly less number of trichomes (10.33 m-2). Correlation between okra leafhopper and the various yield and growth parameters of okra accessions revealed highly significant and negative correlation for yield, number of pods and significant positive correlation with plant height while non-significant correlation recorded with pod length.

Accessions, Amrasca biguttula biguttula, Okra germplasm, Trichome density https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.3.2022/119-123 2022-08-09 Research Articles K.P. Manju

K.P. Manju*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kannur, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (670 142), India

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132 1722936148 Research Biotica Decadal Shift in Fish Landings and Catch Composition in Brahmaputra River, Assam, India Fisheries Science 132-138

Analysis of long-term (1987-2019) fish landing data showed that an average 191.93 t year-1 of fish landed at Uzanbazar (Guwahati) landing center of River Brahmaputra. The total landings registered peak landings of 471.8 t in 2002 and thereafter it declined to the lowest levels of 84.06 t in 2016. Fish landings suffered changes in the qualitative and quantitative aspects of River Brahmaputra fishery in Assam. Whereas average total landings during last decade declined by almost 60% as compared to the average landings of 234.97 t year-1 in the previous two decades (1987-2009), the contribution of Indian major carps (IMC) and minor carps towards total landings declined from 17.54% and 35.11% during 1987-2009 to only 4.86% and 8.94%, respectively during 2010-2019. Miscellaneous fishes group emerged as dominant group contributing 58.28% of the average landings in last decade (54.30 t year-1) compared to 69.38 t year-1 during 1987-2009. Average landing of catfishes also decreased from 26.96 t year-1 in 1987-2009 to 19.77 t year-1 in 2010-2019, but percentage contribution increased from 11.47% to 21.28% over decades. Similarly, average landings of Hilsa declined from 8.24 t year-1 to 3.42 t year-1 but percentage contribution remained unchanged over the period. Such changes can be partly ascribed to climate change, habitat modification, over exploitation and other anthropogenic causes. The sharp decline in IMC landings as well as changes in landing composition from the river due to these alterations in the last decade is directly affecting the livelihood of the fishermen community.

Brahmaputra, Catch composition, Fish landings, Hilsa, Indian major carps https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.3.2022/132-138 2022-08-25 Research Articles Anil Kumar Yadav, Simanku Borah, Birendra Kumar Bhattacharjya, Kishore Kumar Das and Basanta Kumar Das

Anil Kumar Yadav*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Simanku Borah

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Birendra Kumar Bhattacharjya

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Kishore Kumar Das

Dept. of Statistics, Gauhati University, Guwahati, Assam (781 034), India

Basanta Kumar Das

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

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133 1722937482 Research Biotica Effect of Seed Treatment Chemicals on Pod Damage in Groundnut Agriculture 146-149

Field experiments have been formulated to minimise the groundnut pod damage by seed treatments and soil drenching. The pooled data revealed that Seed treatment with clothionidin 50 WDG @ 2 g kg-1 recorded 12.24% pod damage during peg formation stage. During maturity stage, seed treatment with imidacloprid 600 FS @ 2 ml kg-1 + soil drenching with chlorpyriphos 20 EC @ 8 ml per 10 L of water at 60 DAS recorded 15.11% pod damage and the imidacloprid seed treatment with soil drenching of imidacloprid 17.8 SL, chlorpyriphos 20 EC and imidacloprid 40% + fipronil 40% (80 WG) were on par with each other. Highest pod yield (1,475 kg ha-1) and haulm (2,958 kg ha-1) with 17.22 ICBR was observed in imidacloprid seed treatment with soil drenching of imidacloprid 17.8 SL. Untreated control recorded 23.97% pod damage with 971 kg pod and 1,975 kg haulm.

Groundnut, Imidacloprid, Pod damage, Seed treatment https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.3.2022/146-149 2022-09-05 Research Articles C. Vijayaraghavan and M. Pandiyan

C. Vijayaraghavan*

Regional Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vridhachalam, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (606 001), India

M. Pandiyan

Regional Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vridhachalam, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (606 001), India

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134 1722937924 Research Biotica Effect on Growth and Economics of Vanaraja Poultry on Azolla Feed Supplementation Agriculture 150-155

A study was conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, West Siang, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Arunachal Pradesh Centre, India for a period of 72 weeks, from January, 2021 to May, 2022 with 300 unsexed 4 weeks old brooded Vanaraja chicks which were provided to the farmers. The birds were randomly divided into five feeding trial groups (20 birds in each treatment group with 3 replications), namely TO1 (birds were let out for foraging with no supplementation), TO2 (basal diet), TO3 (basal diet + 5% fresh Azolla), TO4 (basal diet + 10% fresh Azolla) and TO5 (basal diet + 15% fresh Azolla). Data on weekly body weight gain up to 20th weeks showed no significant difference between Azolla fed groups and basal diet fed groups; whereas, number of egg production up to 72nd weeks recorded as 62.4±3.4, 110.5±3.1, 116.2±3.2, 120.5±4.6 and 128.2±4.8 in TO1, TO2, TO3, TO4 and TO5 respectively. Economic efficiency of Azolla fed birds showed higher economic returns in terms of benefit cost ratio in group TO5 (4.42) than that of basal diet (3.04) and group where birds were let out for foraging (2.59).

Azolla, Egg production, Feed, Growth performance, Poultry https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.3.2022/150-155 2022-09-14 Research Articles M.S. Baruah and H. Kalita

M.S. Baruah*

KVK - West Siang, ICAR-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Arunachal Pradesh Centre, Basar, Arunachal Pradesh (791 101), India

H. Kalita

ICAR-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Arunachal Pradesh Centre, Basar, Arunachal Pradesh (791 101), India

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135 1722938444 Research Biotica Time Series Analysis of Monthly Coffee (Robusta) Prices in India using Box-Jenkins Approach Agriculture 156-160

Robusta coffee is a type of coffee made from the Coffea canephora plant's beans (seeds). It is the world's second most popular coffee, accounting for 43% of global coffee production with arabica constituting the remainder except for the 1.5% constituted by Coffea liberica. The purpose of this study is to focus on predicting monthly coffee prices in India by using the historic time series data. The objective of this paper is to fit an Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model using Box-Jenkins approach. Numerous fields, including agricultural production, animal husbandry and dairy economics, stock price prediction, etc. depend heavily on forecasting. To choose the best model, Autoregressive (AR), Moving Average (MA), and Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) processes was used to select the best model for monthly coffee prices in India. This paper discusses ARIMA (p, d, q) time series analysis and its components, ACF, PACF, Normalized BIC, Box-Ljung Q Statistics, and Residual analysis. According to the best fitted model i.e., ARIMA (0,2,1) monthly coffee prices in India is expected to increase to INR 89.35 kg-1 in the month of November 2022. The outcomes are represented numerically and graphically.

Autocorrelation function, Box-Jenkins Approach, Coffee Prices, Partial autocorrelation function, Residual Analysis https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.3.2022/156-160 2022-09-21 Research Articles Prema Borkar

Prema Borkar*

Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics (Deemed University), Pune, Maharashtra (411 004), India

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136 1722941455 Research Biotica October-December (2022) Determination of Chlorantraniliprole Residue in Soil by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Agriculture 166-168

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for the quantification of anthranilic diamide insecticide chlorantraniliprole residues in soil. The soil samples were extracted with acetonitrile and dispersive solid phase extraction clean up. The average recoveries of chlorantraniliprole were in the range of 94.10-96.82% with reproducibility and repeatability was ranged between 0.17 to 1.90 and 0.97 to 1.22%, respectively. The limit of quantification of the analytical method was 0.01 μg g-1 and the matrix effect was less than 1%.

Chlorantraniliprole, GC-MS, Residue, Soil https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.4.2022/166-168 2022-10-07 Short Communication Paramasivam, M.

Paramasivam, M.*

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Virinjipuram, Tamil Nadu (632 104) India

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137 1722943461 Research Biotica October-December (2022) Response of Black Gram Crop to Rhizobacteria Agriculture 176-178

Field experiments were conducted during summer seasons in two consecutive years (2020-21 and 2021-22) at Experimental Farm of College of Agriculture, Tripura to find out the best Rhizobacteria inoculants for stimulation of nodulation and increasing yield of blackgram crop. From the findings of two years’ experiment, it can be noted that inoculation of Rhizobium significantly increased the number and dry mass of nodules (32.8 plant-1 and 35.8 mg plant-1 at 30 DAS), plant dry mass (26.8 g plant-1) and grain yield (861.3 kg ha-1) of black gram. Azotobacter chroococcum alone and with Rhizobium numerically favoured the nodulation (29.6 and 34.2 plant-1 respectively) in black gram. Rhizobium + A. chroococcum treatment produced significantly more plant dry mass (29.6 g plant-1) and grain yield (930.6 kg ha-1) of black gram over the uninoculated control (23.2 g plant-1 and 747.9 kg ha-1 respectively) and Rhizobium alone, respectively. Bacillus sp. in conjunction with Rhizobium were statistically comparable to Rhizobium alone inoculation in respect of nodule mass and grain yield. All the three inoculants together gave the 890.3 kg ha-1 black gram yield which was statistically comparable to Rhizobium + A. chroococcum in black gram. So, from the results of experiment, it can be concluded that dual inoculation of black gram seeds with Rhizobium + A. chroococcum promotes significant nodulation of black gram crop with in turn increases the plant biomass and seed yield of summer blackgram crop.

Bacillus, Black gram, Inoculation, Nodulation, Rhizobium https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/4.4.2022/176-178 2022-10-26 Research Articles A. Saha, S. Biswas and P. Lodh

A. Saha*

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Tripura, West Tripura (799 210), India

S. Biswas

Dept. of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

P. Lodh

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Tripura, West Tripura (799 210), India

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138 1722954135 Biotica Research Today Tunas: Chicken of the Sea Agriculture 146-147

Fishing is deeply ingrained in societies, crucial for global food security and economies. Scombrids like tunas and mackerels are vital marine ecosystem components worldwide. India's rich marine biodiversity underscores scombrids' global significance, constituting 7.4% of marine fish resources. Tunas, dubbed "chicken of the sea," are prized for their flesh, supporting international fishing. Despite economic importance, scombrids face overfishing and habitat degradation, with albacore tuna nearing threatened status. Sustainable fishery management is vital, balancing economic interests and environmental preservation through cooperation. Understanding human-community-marine ecosystem links is the key for scombrid and ocean sustainability. Embracing stewardship and conservation principles is essential to safeguard marine resources for future generations, ensuring food safety and ecological harmony.

Fishing, Scombrids, Trade, Tunas NIL 2024-04-04 Popular Article Paplin Prince B. and Pavinkumar P.

Paplin Prince B.*

Dept. of Fisheries Resource Management, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Pavinkumar P.

Dept. of Fisheries Resource Management, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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139 1722956864 Biotica Research Today Feeding India's Future: Unlocking the Potential of Biofortified Millets Agriculture 152-155

Nutritional insecurity poses a significant global threat, particularly among populations heavily reliant on cereal-based diets lacking essential nutrients. Millets, predominant in African and Asian climate characterized by semi-arid conditions and susceptibility to drought, emerge as primary energy sources with superior nutritional profiles rich in essential amino acids, proteins, vitamins and minerals. The proven economic feasibility of biofortification in millets offers a promising solution to combat malnutrition in India. Acknowledging the potential, HarvestPlus introduced high-iron pearl millet in India as a measure to alleviate iron deficiency. Advancements in molecular techniques have uncovered waxy starch traits in diverse millet varieties, thereby improving their suitability. Moreover, scientists have elucidated genes linked to protein quality in finger millet. Furthermore, recent innovations in transgenic methods for expressing zinc transporters have revealed calcium sensor genes in finger millet. This article discusses strategies to expedite millet biofortification, outlining opportunities and challenges to enhance macro and micronutrient bioavailability.

Biofortified Millets, Nutritional security, Sustainable agriculture, India NIL 2024-04-08 Popular Article Medha Deepa Nayak, Bhanu Prasant Sahoo, Deviparna Rath, Nimain Charan Pradhan, Arpita Priyadarshini, Dibya Pal, Ajit Kumar Basantiya and Jyoti Prakash Sahoo

Medha Deepa Nayak

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Bhanu Prasant Sahoo

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Deviparna Rath

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Nimain Charan Pradhan

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Arpita Priyadarshini

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Dibya Pal

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Ajit Kumar Basantiya

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

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140 1722957653 Biotica Research Today Laser Scarecrows in Agriculture: An Innovative Solution for Bird Pests Agriculture 156-157

Avian pests threaten global agricultural productivity by damaging crops. Traditional deterrents like scare balloons and auditory methods are ineffective due to habituation, while exclusion netting is labor-intensive and costly. Inhumane practices like avicides also pose ethical concerns. Laser bird deterrents offer a cutting-edge solution, utilizing software-powered cameras to detect bird presence and emitting a 532 nm green light to startle them away without habituation. These devices, equipped with batteries and solar panels, are portable and sustainable, suitable for multifaceted bird control strategies and potentially as standalone tools by increasing device density. Ongoing research is vital to optimize this technology, exploring daytime applications, expanding coverage and adapting devices for diverse crops and pests. Laser bird deterrents represent a promising advancement in agricultural pest management, providing an effective, humane and environmentally sustainable approach to mitigate avian damage to crops.

Avicides, Bird pests, Laser scarecrow, Pest management https://doi.org/10.54083/BioResToday/6.4.2024/158-161 2024-04-09 Popular Article Subrata Goswami, M. Raghuraman, Kaushik Kumar Das and Manish Gadekar

Subrata Goswami*

Dept. of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

M. Raghuraman

Dept. of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Kaushik Kumar Das

Dept. of Entomology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Manish Gadekar

Dept. of Entomology, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

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141 1723608101 Biotica Research Today Preserving Food in the Modern Age: Blending Tradition with Innovation Agriculture 158-161

Food preservation is a fundamental practice essential for ensuring the availability and safety of food over extended periods. Drawing from centuries-old practices passed down through generations, along with the latest technological innovations offers a comprehensive solution to the challenges of food preservation in the 21st century. By leveraging traditional methods such as fermentation, drying and pickling with advancements like vacuum sealing, high-pressure processing and controlled atmosphere storage, food preservation becomes not only a means of extending shelf life but also a way of enhancing nutritional value and flavour retention. Through this integration, a comprehensive approach that honours traditional wisdom while embracing future opportunities guarantees the effectiveness and sustainability of food preservation. This article demonstrates how this integration not only prolongs the shelf life of perishable goods but also improves food safety, quality and sustainability.

Food safety, Modern technology, Preservation, Traditional methods NIL 2024-04-11 Popular Article Shradha Suman Mishra, Piyush Priyadarshi Jena, Sandeep Keshari, Archita Sethy, Kalyana Saurabh Swain, Simran Priyadarsini and Jyoti Prakash Sahoo

Shradha Suman Mishra

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Piyush Priyadarshi Jena

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Sandeep Keshari

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Archita Sethy

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Kalyana Saurabh Swain

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Simran Priyadarsini

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

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142 1723610072 Biotica Research Today Embracing Green Farming: Sustainable Practices for a Flourishing Future Agriculture 162-165

This article explores the principles, benefits, challenges and innovative strategies associated with green farming, also known as sustainable agriculture. Green farming represents a holistic approach to agriculture that prioritizes environmental stewardship, economic viability and social responsibility. By adopting practices such as soil health management, biodiversity conservation and climate resilience, green farming offers numerous benefits, including environmental sustainability, economic viability and food security. However, the widespread adoption of green farming faces challenges such as knowledge gaps, economic constraints and policy barriers. To overcome these challenges, innovative strategies such as farmer education, public-private partnerships, market-based incentives and technological innovation are essential. By embracing these strategies, stakeholders can accelerate the transition to a more sustainable, resilient and equitable agricultural future.

Biodiversity conservation, Food security, Green farming, Sustainable agriculture NIL 2024-04-12 Popular Article Badal Verma, Muskan Porwal and A.K. Jha

Badal Verma*

Dept. of Agronomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

Muskan Porwal

Dept. of Agronomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

A.K. Jha

Dept. of Agronomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

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143 1723610889 Biotica Research Today Saline Scars and Broken Levees: The Impact of Cyclones on Sundarbans’ Agriculture and Aquaculture Agriculture 166-169

Tropical cyclones pose a significant threat to the vulnerable Sundarban region, the largest mangrove forest globally, situated along the Bay of Bengal coast. In this article, we will delve into the profound effects of cyclones on agriculture and aquaculture in the Sundarbans and explore potential strategies to mitigate their impact. Cyclone-induced flooding, soil degradation and changes in agricultural trends severely affect crop yields and livelihoods. Aquaculture infrastructure destruction, water quality deterioration and stock loss disrupt the thriving aquaculture industry. Mitigation measures such as salt-resistant seed cultivation, integrated farming practices, mangrove restoration and livelihood diversification are discussed. Urgent conservation efforts are crucial to safeguard the Sundarbans' unique biodiversity, including the iconic Royal Bengal Tigers and sustain the livelihoods of millions relying on this fragile ecosystem. As cyclone frequency increases due to climate change, proactive measures and community resilience building are imperative for the Sundarbans' long-term sustainability and resilience.

Impact, Mitigation strategies, Tropical cyclones, Sundarbans NIL 2024-04-14 Popular Article Samiran Mukherjee and Pritam Sarkar

Samiran Mukherjee*

Fisheries Economics, Extension and Statistics Division, ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Pritam Sarkar

Aquatic Environment and Health Management Division, ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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144 1723615615 Research Biotica Feeding and Reproductive Ecology of Rodents: A Review Agriculture 01-06

Rodents are the most populous and widespread vertebrate pest of agriculture. It is a major cause of crop losses in fields and storage grains resulting in huge economic losses annually. Despite its huge economic importance, little is known about the pest in terms of its habitat, feeding habits, reproduction patterns and population dynamics. Due to the lack of proper knowledge, rodents are one of the most difficult pests to control in the agro-ecosystems. The management practices that exist are mostly chemo-centric and are often unreliable in controlling the populations. Hence, to develop efficient management strategies, it is important to gain a better insight into the ecology of rodents, both feeding and reproductive. This paper attempts to discuss the feeding and reproductive ecology of rodents, specifically but not limited to the agro-ecosystem.

Feeding ecology, Pest management, Reproductive ecology, Rodents, Vertebrate pest https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.1.2024/01-06 2024-01-25 Review Articles K. Sindhura Bhairavi, Ratul Kumar Borah, Badal Bhattacharyya and Shimantini Borkataki

K. Sindhura Bhairavi*

Dept. of Entomology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

Ratul Kumar Borah

Dept. of Entomology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

Badal Bhattacharyya

Dept. of Entomology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

Shimantini Borkataki

Dept. of Entomology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

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145 1723616018 Biotica Research Today Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA): A Key to Sustainability Agriculture 184-187

An integrated strategy that tackles the relationships between agriculture, climate change and sustainable development is known as "climate-smart agriculture" (CSA). It places a strong emphasis on putting practices and technology into place that increase agricultural output, strengthen resilience to climate change and variability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Adoption of crop varieties resistant to climate change, effective water management strategies, agro-forestry systems and soil conservation measures are important elements of CSA. Through the integration of early warning systems and climate information, CSA empowers farmers to make well-informed decisions and modifies their methods in response to changing weather patterns. Aside from guaranteeing food security, CSA also encourages the sustainable expansion of agricultural production while protecting biodiversity and natural resources. By taking a comprehensive strategy, CSA helps to meet the global climate goals, rural development and poverty alleviation. Moreover, CSA is important for developing resilient and sustainable agricultural systems that can handle the demands of a changing climate and support millions of farmers worldwide.

Agriculture, Climate, Climate Smart Agriculture, Sustainability NIL 2024-04-20 Popular Article Nitya Saswata Mohanty, Atanu Mohanty, Debasmita Dhal, Sourav Mahapatra, Badrinath Mishra, Rekha Mallik and Jyoti Prakash Sahoo

Nitya Saswata Mohanty*

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Atanu Mohanty

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Debasmita Dhal

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Sourav Mahapatra

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Badrinath Mishra

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Rekha Mallik

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

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146 1723617104 Biotica Research Today Transforming E-Waste: Circular Economy and Resource Efficiency in India Agriculture 188-191

In today’s world of rising purchasing power and technological improvement, electronic waste poses a significant global pollution issue besides others leading to economic, environmental and health consequences. Developed nations often dump their e-waste into developing nations where informal recycling practices prevail and stakeholders are not bound by any regulations. Therefore, proper management and treatment of e-waste is important to reduce its hazardous impacts, reflecting the zero-waste management concept, a comprehensive approach recognizing waste together a resource and also a measure of modern society’s inefficiency. India stands third next to China and the USA producing 13 and 16 lakh tonnes in 2020-21 & 2021-22 respectively, according to CPCB. This article offers insights into India’s strategy for resource efficiency to address the e-waste sector challenges with transition from traditional waste management to a circular and resource-efficient system. This shift promotes sustainable practices fostering a circular economy approach to e-waste management.

E-Waste management, Resource efficiency, EPR, Circular economy NIL 2024-04-21 Popular Article Routhu Urmila Devi, Pritam Sarkar and Saurav Kumar

Routhu Urmila Devi*

Aquatic Environmental Management Discipline, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Pritam Sarkar

Aquatic Environmental Management Discipline, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Saurav Kumar

Aquatic Environmental Management Discipline, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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147 1723617429 Research Biotica Evaluation of Maize Hybrids under Rainfed Condition in New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal Agriculture 13-16

At Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya's District Seed Farm (AB-Block), Kalyani during the 2020 kharif season, a experiment in the field was taken to study the performance of maize hybrids and to study crop yield and adaptability of maize hybrids. Four replications of the experiment were conducted using a Randomized Block Design and six maize hybrids (DKC 9144, DKC 7204, DKC 8181, P3396, Kaveri 50 and Yuvraj). The experiment's findings showed that the maize hybrid DKC 9144 recorded the highest growth attribute like plant height (252.67 cm) and characters related to yield attributing include 100 seed weight (41.67 g), grains row-1 (43.00) and grain rows cob-1 (13.97). Highest grain yield (9.06 t ha-1), stover yield (10.99 t ha-1) and harvest index (47.80) were obtained by maize hybrid DKC 9144 than other maize hybrids. Lowest growth character (plant height), yield attributing characters (Grain rows cob-1, Grains row-1 and 100 seed weight), yields (Grain yield and Stover yield) and harvest index of maize were recorded by Kaveri 50 hybrid. According to the experimental findings, cultivating the hybrid maize variety DKC 9144 under rainfed conditions in new alluvial zone of West Bengal is advised in order to maximise the output of farmers.

Hybrids, Maize, Rainfed condition, West Bengal, Yield https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.1.2024/13-16 2024-02-24 Research Articles S. Biswas and A. Saha

S. Biswas*

Dept. of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

A. Saha

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

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148 1723617716 Biotica Research Today De novo Genome Assembly: Challenges and Solutions Agriculture 192-194

De novo assembly is a computational process used in genomics to reconstruct genomes from short DNA sequencing reads without a reference genome. Current article outlines the definition, steps, constraints and solutions associated with de novo assembly. De novo assembly is crucial for studying non-model organisms, identifying genetic variations and understanding evolutionary relationships. A general outline of the steps involved in de novo assembly has been provided; however, slight variations may occur based on the approach to assembly employed, whether it is overlap-layout-consensus or de Bruijn graph-based. Constraints such as sequencing errors, repetitive sequences and genome size variations pose challenges to accurate assembly. Solutions to these challenges involve employing advanced algorithms, optimizing sequencing technologies and integrating multiple data sources. Understanding and overcoming these constraints are essential for enhancing the accuracy and completeness of de novo assembly, thereby enhancing the output from various genomic studies and applications.

De Bruijn graph, De novo genome assembly, Fast QC, Overlap layout consensus NIL 2024-04-22 Popular Article Sindhu D., Satish Hosakoti, Bidwan Rath, Sinchana Kashyap G.S. and Basanagouda Gonal

Sindhu D.

Division of Genetics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi (110 012), India

Satish Hosakoti

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

Bidwan Rath*

Division of Genetics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi (110 012), India

Sinchana Kashyap G.S.

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

Basanagouda Gonal

CSB-Central Sericultural Research & Training Institute (CSR&TI), Pampore, Jammu & Kashmir (192 121), India

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149 1723619106 Biotica Research Today Microplastic Contamination in Aquaculture: Sources, Effects and Mitigation Strategies Agriculture 195-197

The prevalence of plastics in contemporary society has resulted in unprecedented levels of plastic pollution, raising significant environmental and health concerns. Since the 1950s, global plastic production has surged, leading to widespread accumulation of plastic waste. Microplastics (Mps), particles measuring less than 5 mm in diameter, have emerged as a particularly worrisome aspect of plastic pollution due to their persistence and potential adverse effects. Various sources contribute to the presence of Mps in aquatic environments, including land-based plastic waste, tourism-related littering, shipping activities, fisheries, aquaculture and atmospheric deposition. Mps can adversely impact aquatic organisms, affecting their feeding behavior, reproduction, immune responses and gene expression. Moreover, microplastics pose potential health risks to humans. Several measures can be undertaken to address the issue, including removing plastic microbeads from personal care products, utilizing biodegradable materials, enhancing waste management and recycling practices, upgrading wastewater treatment plants and advancing cleanup and bioremediation technologies.

Aquaculture, Microplastics (Mps), Primary source, Secondary source NIL 2024-04-23 Popular Article Prachurjya Das, Upasana Sahoo, Sourav Bhadra and Tuturanjan Gogoi

Prachurjya Das*

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Upasana Sahoo

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Sourav Bhadra

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Tuturanjan Gogoi

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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150 1723619727 Research Biotica Effectiveness of Abundance and Distribution of Benthos in Aquatic Ecosystem Fisheries Science 28-32

Benthic organisms have a great ecological impact in any aquatic ecosystem. The study was done at Rush River under Khulna region, Bangladesh to enhance the effectiveness of abundance for aquatic eco-system. The study was conducted at two different stations such as fresh area and processing plan area of Rush River from July to December of last three years. The investigation was connected with different months, the abundance-distribution of benthos varied and effects of pH on salinity and alkalinity of the river water has been propounded in this article to enhance ecosystem of benthos living. Arthropods were also found in relatively low in number both the fresh and polluted area relatively to the Mollusks. The Mollusks distribution increases up to 77% from June to October in Fresh area but at Polluted area, it reduces 28% than fresh area. Annelid at June-September and October is same but on July-August it’s become higher at both type of water. Arthropods reduce 33.3% from June to October in Fresh area but in polluted area it is very rare.

Aquatic-Environment, Benthos, Eco-system, Micro- and Macro-organisms https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.1.2024/28-32 2024-03-21 Research Articles Shuvrodeb Biswas, Mohua Chakrabarty and Bijan Mallick

Shuvrodeb Biswas

Fisheries and Marine Resource Technology Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna (9208), Bangladesh

Mohua Chakrabarty

Physics Discipline, Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET), Khulna (9208), Bangladesh

Bijan Mallick*

Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, GIMT and Research Associate, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 032), India

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151 1723619889 Biotica Research Today Unveiling the Medicinal Activity and Potential Health Benefits of Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea) Agriculture 198-201

The extensive utilization of Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea) plant in traditional medicine stems from its abundance in biologically active compounds. Both its above-ground and underground components are employed in treating a spectrum of ailments such as diabetes, high blood pressure, retinal damage, edema and indigestion. Extract from the Clitoria ternatea flower exhibits a myriad of health benefits, including antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic and antidiabetic properties. These attributes render Clitoria ternatea flowers promising for incorporation into functional foods, given their broad therapeutic spectrum, safety and efficacy. From Clitoria, a range of primary and secondary plant metabolites have been extracted, including aparagitin, clitorin, triterpenoids, anthocyanins, steroidal glycosides and flavonols. Various pharmacological activities of Clitoria ternatea are included in this article, encompassing its nootropic, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, anxiolytic, antistress, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hyperlipidemic, antidiabetic, analgesic, cytotoxic, antiplatelet and hepatoprotective properties.

Blue tea, Butterfly Pea, Health Benefits, Non-Caffein NIL 2024-04-24 Popular Article Sandipa Mahapatra, Manaswini Mahapatra and Jyoti Prakash Sahoo

Sandipa Mahapatra*

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Manaswini Mahapatra

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

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152 1723620901 Biotica Research Today Managing Fall Armyworm Infestations: Effective Strategies for Crop Protection Agriculture 202-204

The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a highly damaging pest that threatens global agriculture. Originating from the Americas, it invaded Sub-Saharan Africa in 2016 and subsequently spread to India and numerous other countries in Africa and Asia. Its life cycle consists of six larval instars over a period of 14 to 18 days, with pupae exhibiting morphological and morphometric differences between sexes. Effective management approaches include monitoring and early detection, cultural practices like crop rotation and mechanical control methods such as handpicking, biological control through natural enemies, host plant resistance and integrated pest management strategies. These measures collectively aim to mitigate the impact of fall armyworm infestations and safeguard agricultural productivity.

Infestation, Monitoring, Pest management, Spodoptera frugiperda NIL 2024-04-24 Popular Article Brajrajsharan Tiwari, Shailendra Kumar Mishra, Ankit Kumar Mishra, Mohd. Danish and Pradeep Kumar

Brajrajsharan Tiwari*

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Shailendra Kumar Mishra

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Ankit Kumar Mishra

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Mohd. Danish

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Sam Hangbittom University of Agriculture & Technology (SHUATS), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 007), India

Pradeep Kumar

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 004), India

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153 1723620664 Research Biotica April-June (2024) Arms Race of Melanogenic Actinobacteria Actinoalloteichus cyanogriseus against Mulberry Root Rot Pathogens Agriculture 38-45

Mulberry (Morus indica L.), is an astounding multipurpose woody, deciduous crop grown all over the world. Due to pathogens that cause root rot diseases in mulberry have a major impact on intensive crop cultivation and commercial cocoon production. Notably, it has been found that these pathogens affect healthy mulberry plantations regardless of their age, variety that grown in wide-ranging soil and agro-climatic conditions. To manage the pathogens, two potent melanogenic actinobacteria Actinoalloteichus cyanogriseus isolated from mulberry rhizosphere with few extremophilic characteristics were identified in the previous study. Their antagonism towards these pathogens exhibited through a variety of phenomena. The chemical fingerprints of bioactive isolates revealed the presence of more than 30 compounds for each. Advantageously, smaller molecules were found to be the majority of them. Important bioactive inhibitory compounds including, 2,4-DTBP, binapacryl, decanoic acid groups, 1-hydroxy-6-methylphenazine, etc. were identified through GC-MS. In addition to evidence of antifungal metabolites there were also found traces of anti-bacterial, allelopathic compounds with other antioxidants and flavonoid compounds. The current work thus sheds light on the antifungal potency of melanogenic isolates, which has been unexplored/ poorly analyzed.

Anti-fungal metabolites, GC-MS, Melanogenic actinobacteria, Mulberry root rot https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.2.2024/38-45 2024-04-22 Research Articles Saratha M. and Angappan K.

Saratha M.*

Research Extension Centre, Central Silk Board, Gobichettipalayam, Erode, Tamil Nadu (638 476), India

Angappan K.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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154 1723621703 Biotica Research Today Bioethanol Production from Residual Biomass of Plants: Prospective and Challenges Agriculture 205-208

The transportation sector faces urgent challenges due to climate change and declining fossil fuel reserves, necessitating viable alternatives to petroleum. This article focuses on second-generation bioethanol production, which utilizes lignocellulosic biomass, offering a significant advancement over previous biofuel generations. Biomass containing Lignocellulose i.e., cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin, undergoes pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation, distillation and dehydration for conversion. Pretreatment enhances carbohydrate accessibility and reduces inhibitors, while enzymatic hydrolysis releases fermentable sugars like glucose and xylose. However, hydrolysates may require detoxification before fermentation, because of inhibitors. Moreover, effective saccharification involves exogenous hemicellulases and cellulolytic enzymes. Genetically engineered microorganisms are essential for fermenting xylose, as conventional yeast cannot. Moreover, genetic engineering facilitates the acquisition of pentose-fermenting microorganisms by optimizing xylose utilization from the hydrolysate. Utilizing residual biomass for bioethanol production offers substantial potential as a renewable energy solution, capable of combating climate change, bolstering energy security and promoting rural development.

Bioethanol, Biomass, Enzymatic hydrolysis, Fermentation NIL 2024-04-25 Popular Article Rajnandini Sahoo, Abhijit Sahu, Manaswini Mahapatra and Jyoti Prakash Sahoo

Rajnandini Sahoo*

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Abhijit Sahu

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Manaswini Mahapatra

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Faculty of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

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155 1723622348 Biotica Research Today Safety in Every Bite: Navigating Microbial Risks in Fresh Salads Agriculture 209-211

Even though fresh salads are high in nutrients, there present serious microbiological risks. Salad greens are a rich source of pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria and Norovirus, which can cause serious sickness. Pathways for contamination include pre- and post-harvest activities as well as consumer handling. Risks are reduced by using techniques including careful cleaning, appropriate storage and procurement from reliable manufacturers. Contaminants can be removed with the aid of removal methods include blanching, commercial washes and washing with water or vinegar. Promising solutions can be obtained by innovative technologies as UV light treatment, phage biocontrol, high-pressure processing and antimicrobial coatings. It is essential that stakeholders work together. Educating people about the proper handling of fresh produce will help to avoid health hazards related to it.

Contamination pathways, Microbial hazards, Safety strategies, Technological advancements NIL 2024-04-26 Popular Article Fathima Fida, K. Amulya Menon, Ananthu Krishnan U., Midhun M.R. and Anu Rajan S.

Fathima Fida*

College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

K. Amulya Menon

College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Ananthu Krishnan U.

College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Midhun M.R.

College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Anu Rajan S.

College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

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156 1723623413 Biotica Research Today Silicon: A Promising Solution for Pests and Abiotic Stress Management Agriculture 212-214

Silicon (Si) offers a sustainable solution for crop productivity loss due to biotic and abiotic stressors. Major advantages of Si include its environmentally friendly nature and compatibility with other methods of pest management. Si acts against pest and abiotic stressors through various mechanisms. It serves as a physical barrier, boosts biochemical defenses and regulates stress-related gene expression, enhancing resistance. Si also improves photosynthetic efficiency, increases the uptake of K and P, gas exchange, and reduces the Na+ uptake by enhancing H+-ATPase activity of the root plasma membrane and by osmotic adjustment under salinity and drought stress. Si mitigates metal toxicity by forming silicate complexes like sodium metasilicate and amorphous silica, lowering metal availability and toxicity, such as lead and cadmium, through increased soil pH. Nevertheless, the degree of damage, plant genotype and silicon availability influence silicon-mediated protection. Further large-scale field experiments are needed to fully harness Si's potential in sustainable agriculture stress management.

Abiotic stress, Defense response, Pests, Silicon NIL 2024-04-26 Popular Article Sushma Chongtham, Lham Dorjee and Sajad Hussain

Sushma Chongtham

Division of Entomology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Lham Dorjee*

Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Sajad Hussain

Dept. of Botany and Microbiology, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, Uttarakhand (246 174), India

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157 1723623317 Research Biotica April-June (2024) Composition and Diversity of Aquatic Insects of Majuli River Island of Assam Agriculture 52-62

The composition and diversity of aquatic insect was studied at Majuli river island during 2016-18. The occurrence of 48 species under 6 orders and 20 families was observed during surveys conducted in pre monsoon, monsoon, post-monsoon and winter seasons covering 3 locations, 15 villages and 60 sampling sites. Odonata (47.92%) was the most dominant order with 23 species followed by 9 species of Coleoptera and Hemiptera with 18.75% abundance and Ephemeroptera (3 species, 6.25% abundance). While studying the diversity indices, the highest aquatic insect species were registered in Lower Majuli (29 species) followed by Upper Majuli (24 species) and Central Majuli (17 species). Highest Shannon-Weiner Index (H'=3.156), Simpson Index of Diversity (1-D=0.983) and Evenness (EH=0.983) were recorded during monsoon season in Upper Majuli, whereas the lowest Shannon-Weiner Index (H'=2.341), Simpson Index of Diversity (1-D=0.913) and Evenness (EH=0.860) were registered during winter in Central Majuli.

Aquatic, Composition, Diversity, Majuli https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.2.2024/52-62 2024-05-30 Research Articles Shimantini Borkataki, Badal Bhattacharyya and Ritu Ranjan Taye

Shimantini Borkataki*

Dept. of Entomology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

Badal Bhattacharyya

Dept. of Entomology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

Ritu Ranjan Taye

AAU, Zonal Research Station, Karimganj, Assam (788 710), India

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158 1723625827 Research Biotica April-June (2024) Integrated based Nutrient Management on Nutrient Content and Nutrient Availability under Aromatic Rice-(Aromatic)-Lentil Cropping System Agriculture 63-73

Management of nutrients by integrating is becoming an important issue after targeting on justifiable crop production. With this view point, a field experiment was undertaken at Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar, West Bengal during the kharif and rabi season of 2016-17 and 2018-19 to investigate the effects of integrated sources of nitrogen management in the performance of rice varieties (aromatic) and their lingering effects on the sequential lentil crop. Among the two varieties, nutrient content studies revealed that variety Gobindobhog recorded the highest nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content compared to Kalonunia variety relating to root, shoot and grain. Conversely, the plot transplanted with Kalonunia had a higher residual effect on the yield attributes and yields of the succeeding lentil crop. In this experiment pooled analysis showed that the plot treated with 50% N using fertilizer + 50% N using vermicompost (T6), 50% N using fertilizer + 25% N using vermicompost + 25% N using FYM (T8) and 75% N using fertilizer + 25% N using vermicompost (T9) recorded highest or at par nutrient content of rice plant. For the lentil plant, the plot receiving the residual effect of 50% N using fertilizer + 25% N using vermicompost + 25% N using FYM (T8) observed maximum nutrient content. The lowest was recorded in control plot. Highest yield efficacy of aromatic rice was found in the plot treated with 50% N using fertilizer + 50% N using vermicompost (T6) and highest lentil yield was recorded in a plot fertilized with 50% N using fertilizer + 50% N using FYM (T7), respectively.

Aromatic rice, Farm yard manure (FYM), Residual effect, Rice-Lentil cropping system, Vermicompost https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.2.2024/63-73 2024-06-09 Research Articles Punabati Heisnam, Abhinash Moirangthem, Keisham Dony Devi, Golmei Langangmeilu, Pranab Dutta and B.N. Hazarika

Punabati Heisnam

College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Iroisemba, Imphal, Manipur (791 102), India

Abhinash Moirangthem

College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Iroisemba, Imphal, Manipur (791 102), India

Keisham Dony Devi*

College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Iroisemba, Imphal, Manipur (791 102), India

Golmei Langangmeilu

School of Agriculture, Gandhi Institute of Engineering and Technology University, Gunipur, Odisha (492 001), India

Pranab Dutta

School of Crop Protection, College of Post-Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences, Central Agricultural University, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

B.N. Hazarika

College of Horticultural and Forestry, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh (791 102), India

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159 1723700143 Biotica Research Today Aquatic Plants: An Emerging Sustainable Protein Source for Fishes Agriculture 215-217

Aquaculture is an essential protein source, but the rising demand necessitates sustainable alternatives to costly fish meal in feeds. Plant-based proteins emerge as viable substitutes, reducing production costs and environmental impacts. Aquatic plants offer promising protein sources due to their abundance, low cost and nutritional value. This article reviews various aquatic macrophytes like water hyacinth, water fern, water lettuce, duckweed, water spinach and water lily as potential protein sources for fish feeds. Their proximate compositions and suitability for fish diets are discussed. Notably, fermentation enhances protein content, reduces anti-nutritional factors and improves digestibility, enhancing their efficacy in aquafeeds. Utilizing aquatic plants as protein sources holds promise for sustainable aquaculture development, contributing to global food security. Further research into their nutritional profiles and digestibility is crucial for maximizing their potential in fish nutrition.

Anti-nutritional factor, Aquatic plants, Fermentation, Sustainable NIL 2024-04-27 Popular Article Vignesh P., Ezhilarasi V. and Cheryl Antony

Vignesh P.*

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Ezhilarasi V.

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Cheryl Antony

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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160 1723701095 Biotica Research Today Importance of Environmental Impact Assessment of Dams Integrated with Risk of Climate Change Agriculture 218-220

In the 21st century, there's a growing awareness regarding the impact of climate change, which has become an urgent concern. The major infrastructure such as dams, situated near both land and communities, must be resilient against the effects of climate change. Therefore, it's imperative to assess and approve the potential risks associated with climate change. Various global standards emphasize the need to bolster the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study process by integrating evaluations of extreme climate change/ influence hazards. This case study-oriented evaluation examined how the contemporary scientific research community has tackled the impact of climate on the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process for dams globally. The research encompassed the evaluation of EIA methodologies in Indonesia, Iran and Kenya. The findings highlight a widespread acknowledgment of the EIA's capability to address climate change risks.

Climate change hazard, Dam, Environmental Impact Assessment, Risk NIL 2024-04-28 Popular Article Sangeeta, Amit Kumar, Rashmi Yadav, B. Gouthami and Pavan Panzade

Sangeeta*

Water Technology Centre, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Amit Kumar

Dept. of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Patna, Bihar (800 005), India

Rashmi Yadav

Water Technology Centre, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

B. Gouthami

Water Technology Centre, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Pavan Panzade

Water Technology Centre, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

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161 1723702854 Biotica Research Today Success Story on Cultivation of Tomato through Organic Practices Agriculture 224-226

Farmers of Mabong village follow conventional organic practices to cultivate tomato other vegetables without knowledge on scientific organic cultivation practices. They face high infestation of pests and diseases attack with decrease in yield. A team of scientist identified Mr. Som Bahadur Rai as a potential farmers fellow under DBT funded project and trained on scientific organic cultivation practices. After two years of continuous training and exposure Mr. Rai could make good profit with 30-35% increase in yield with 80% less pest and disease attack. The result of his success motivated many nearby farmer in adopting the scientific organic practices. Presently Mr. Rai becomes master trainer for horizontal transfer of the technology among the other farmers.

Farmer income, Organic cultivation, Pest and disease management, Tomato NIL 2024-04-29 Success story Pranab Dutta, A.K. Pandey, R. Varshney, T. Rahman, J. Sutnga and M. Mahanta

Pranab Dutta*

CAU-CPGSAS, CAU (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

CoA, Kyrdemkulai, CAU (Imphal), Ri Bhoi, Meghalaya (793 104), India

A.K. Pandey

Tea Research Association, North Bengal Regional Research Centre (TRA-NBRRDC), Nagrakata, West Bengal (735 225), India

R. Varshney

ICAR-NBAIR, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 024), India

T. Rahman

CAU-CPGSAS, CAU (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

J. Sutnga

CAU-CPGSAS, CAU (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

M. Mahanta

CAU-CPGSAS, CAU (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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162 1723704565 Biotica Research Today Organic Production of Tomato through Biopesticides, Biofertilizers and Macrobials of TRA, NBRRDC, Nagrakata, CAU-CPGSAS Meghalaya and NBAIR Bangalore, Respectively - A Success Story Agriculture 227-229

Under the DBT funded project in the identified village of West Sikkim a team of scientist of CAU-CPGSAS, TRA-NBRRDC and ICAR-NBAIR in collaboration with KVK-West Sikkim identified Mrs. Manika Rai for promotion of proven technologies of organic input for organic cultivation vegetables. Mrs. Rai before our intervention she practiced the cultivation of vegetables without any practices. Under DBT funded project, Mrs. Rai was trained at village level and at KVK level on different aspects of organic practices, seed selection, line sowing, seed treatment, use of organic inputs like enriched compost, sticky traps, use on parasitoid and predators, timely agronomic practices etc. After two years of continuous support and practice Mrs. Rai could able to produce healthy crop with 80-85% reduction of pest and diseases. She could able to get a profit of 40-44% with CBR of 1:5 with positive soil biological index. Seeing the success of Mrs. Rai many fellow farmer started practicing the scientific organic practices.

Farm income, Organic cultivation, Organic inputs, Predators NIL 2024-04-30 Success story Pranab Dutta, A.K. Pandey, R. Varshney, T. Rahman, J. Sutnga and M. Mahanta

Pranab Dutta*

CoA, Kyrdemkulai, CAU (Imphal), Ri Bhoi, Meghalaya (793 104), India

A.K. Pandey

Tea Research Association, North Bengal Regional Research Centre (TRA-NBRRDC), Nagrakata, West Bengal (735 225), India

R. Varshney

ICAR-NBAIR, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 024), India

T. Rahman

CAU-CPGSAS, CAU (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

J. Sutnga

CAU-CPGSAS, CAU (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

M. Mahanta

CAU-CPGSAS, CAU (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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163 1723716847 Research Biotica Field Evaluation of Different Pest Management Modules against Shoot and Fruit Borer (Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee) Infesting Brinjal in Tripura Agriculture 21-26

A field experiment was carried out to assess various pest management strategies for controlling shoot and fruit borer (Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee.) in Brinjal during 2019-20 and 2020-21. Seven Integrated Pest Management (IPM) modules were developed for use according to a calendar-based schedule and were compared to an untreated control in terms of their effectiveness in reducing shoot and fruit borer incidence. The results indicated that module M7 was superior to the untreated control (M8) as it resulted in lower percentages of shoot damage (10.63%), fruit damage on a number basis (12.34%), and fruit damage on a weight basis (11.44%), as well as higher yields. The optimal module (M7) comprised of the following components: (i) Soil incorporation of neem cake at a rate of 250 kg ha-1 (50% during the last plough and 50% at 3 weeks after transplanting); (ii) Installation of pheromone traps at a rate of 5 acre-1, beginning from flower bud initiation (45 days old crop) until final harvest, with lures changed on a monthly basis; (iii) Mechanical clipping of drooped shoots and removal of infested fruits from the field at weekly intervals; (iv) Release of multiple insecticide tolerant Trichogramma chilonis at a rate of 1.25 lakh ha-1 at weekly intervals (4 times) from 30 days after planting (DAP); (v) Alternating spray of Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC at a rate of 0.3 ml L-1 and Novaluron 10% EC at a rate of 1.5 ml L-1 at fortnightly intervals beginning from 70 DAT was found to be the best module for brinjal growers.

Brinjal, Field evaluation, Leucinodes orbonalis, Management, Pest management modules, Shoot and fruit borer https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.1.2023/21-26 2023-03-11 Research Articles Ardhendu Chakraborty, Swarnali Bhattacharya and Biswajit Das

Ardhendu Chakraborty*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Institute of Agriculture (PSB), Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal (731 236), India

Swarnali Bhattacharya

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Institute of Agriculture (PSB), Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal (731 236), India

Biswajit Das

Division of Horticulture, ICAR-RC for NEH Region, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

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164 1723717244 Research Biotica Precision Irrigation Strategies for Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Farming: Influence of Drip Lateral Geometry, Irrigation Regimes and Frequency on Crop Performance Agriculture 27-32

A substantial rise in water consumption as a result of rapid population development and rising living standards has resulted in acute water shortages. Effective water management has become crucial to address this issue. One approach is to adopt irrigation technologies and implement efficient irrigation scheduling to optimize limited water resources. The agricultural industry must find ways to grow more food while using less water, which can be done through improving crop water productivity. The timing and amount of water to be applied to crops is determined by irrigation scheduling, which helps to avoid over or under watering. Drip irrigation is increasingly utilized in this region due to its potential for enhancing agriculture production with efficient use of water. Drip irrigation must be scheduled correctly for effective water management in crop production. Realizing the necessity, at Junagadh Agricultural University, an experiment was carried out during year 2018-19, to study effect of drip lateral geometry (3 rows per lateral, 4 rows per lateral and 6 rows per lateral), irrigation regimes (1.0 ETc and 0.8 ETc) and irrigation frequency (2 days, 3 days and 5 days) on wheat. Each treatment was replicated twice. Results revealed that higher plant height (115.01 cm), number of productive tiller (480.50), number of grains spike-1 (47), test weight (59.83 g) and highest grain yield (4,825 kg ha-1) and straw yield (7,655 kg ha-1) was observed under drip lateral geometry of 3 rows per lateral, scheduled at 0.8 ETc and 2 days irrigation frequency.

Drip irrigation, Irrigation frequency, Lateral geometry, Precision irrigation, Wheat https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.1.2023/27-32 2023-03-21 Research Articles D.D. Vadalia, H.V. Agravat, G.V. Prajapati, P.A. Pandya and S.H. Parmar

D.D. Vadalia*

Centre of Excellence on Soil and Water Management, Office of the Research Scientist (Agril. Engg.), Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

H.V. Agravat

Centre of Excellence on Soil and Water Management, Office of the Research Scientist (Agril. Engg.), Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

G.V. Prajapati

Centre of Excellence on Soil and Water Management, Office of the Research Scientist (Agril. Engg.), Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

P.A. Pandya

Centre of Excellence on Soil and Water Management, Office of the Research Scientist (Agril. Engg.), Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

S.H. Parmar

Centre of Excellence on Soil and Water Management, Office of the Research Scientist (Agril. Engg.), Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

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165 1723717838 Research Biotica Prosopis Pod Meal as an Alternative Aquafeed Ingredient Fisheries Science 33-41

The expanding human population raises the demand for nutritionally-rich food, and fish is the cheapest and best way to meet this requirement. Currently, the stagnation of capture fisheries encourages aquaculture as a means of providing quality proteins to a growing population. A successful aquaculture enterprise incurs a high expenditure of 50-60% on feed costs. Therefore, reducing feed costs by identifying alternative feed ingredients will improve the economic condition of the aquaculture business. Currently, the conventional ingredients used in aquafeed are becoming more expensive, raising the aquafeed's price and thus the overall cost of fish production. Hence, there is a need to transition to low-cost unconventional aquafeed ingredients, and Prosopis pod meal has excellent potential in this context. Prosopis pod meal has a high nutritional value, and it could be substituted conventional ingredients for instance corn meal, wheat flour, rice bran, etc., in aquafeed. This technical review comprises the scope and constraints of employing Prosopis pod meal as an ingredient in aquafeed.

Aquafeed, Fish, Plant-based ingredient, Prosopis pod meal, Unconventional ingredient https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.1.2023/33-41 2023-03-26 Review Articles Chetan Kumar Garg and D.K. Meena

Chetan Kumar Garg*

Dept. of Fisheries Science, Gopal Narayan Singh University, Jamuhar, Rohtas, Bihar (821 305), India

D.K. Meena

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

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166 1723718924 Research Biotica Production and Culture Scenario of Striped Catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, Sauvage, 1878) in India Fisheries Science 42-48

India's Pangasianodon hypophthalmus catfish farming is on a steady rise, harnessing its abundant potential and extensive resources, which include vast land areas, specialized expertise and rich indigenous cultural knowledge. In the fiscal year 2020-2021, the nation achieved an impressive total fish production of 162.48 lakh tonnes, with the aquaculture sector playing a pivotal role by contributing 121.21 lakh tonnes to this remarkable figure. Noteworthy is the significant individual contribution of catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus), accounting for 4.32 lakh tonnes. These statistics underscore the crucial and prominent role that catfish farming plays in driving India's thriving aquaculture industry. This article covers an overview of the current condition and features of striped catfish in India, as well as the breeding status and seed production methods and larvae rearing.

Breeding, Exotic species, Seed rearing, Striped catfish https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.1.2023/42-48 2023-03-30 Review Articles Lakan Lal Meena, H. Shivananda Murthy, Dharmendra Kumar Meena, Raju Ram and Khemraj Bunkar

Lakan Lal Meena*

The Neotia University, Sarisa, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal (743 368), India

H. Shivananda Murthy

The Neotia University, Sarisa, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal (743 368), India

Dharmendra Kumar Meena

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrakpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

Raju Ram

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova andheri (West), Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Khemraj Bunkar

The Neotia University, Sarisa, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal (743 368), India

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167 1723719560 Research Biotica Understanding Socio-Economic Challenges Facing A2 Out-Grower Sugarcane Farmers in Zimbabwe: Case of Lowveld Area in Masvingo Province Agriculture 49-55

Production of sugarcane in the out grower farming community has been decreasing and remained well below the expected standards. This study sought to investigate the reasons contributing to decline in sugarcane production of out grower farmers in the Lowveld area of Zimbabwe. The specific objectives of the study were to identify the socio-economic factors affecting sugarcane production, to measure technical efficiency of the sugarcane farmers and to measure the costs and returns of sugarcane (profitability). A sample of farmers 100 was randomly selected and was interviewed with a structured questionnaire. Results from the study revealed that farm size, credit access, farming experience, age and extension contacts significantly affected sugar cane yield. The mean technical efficiency of the farmers was 0.69. 36% of the farmers have technical efficiency ranging from 0.7 to 0.75. Farmers selected for the study have average annual revenue of $ 5,652.5 ha-1, variable costs of $ 5,320 ha-1 giving them an average gross profit of $ 332.5 ha-1. The research concluded that the farmers are technically efficient. It is recommended that, farmers should be linked to more extension agents and also to form cooperatives.

A2 farmers, Efficiency, Gross margin, Profitability, Sugarcane production https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.2.2023/49-55 2023-04-20 Research Articles Never Mafuse, Mathar Timba and Zivenge Emmanuael

Never Mafuse*

Dept. of Agricultural Economics Education and Extension, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Bindura University of Science Education, PO Box 1020, Bindura, Zimbabwe

Mathar Timba

Dept. of Agricultural Economics Education and Extension, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Bindura University of Science Education, PO Box 1020, Bindura, Zimbabwe

Zivenge Emmanuael

Dept. of Agricultural Economics Education and Extension, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Bindura University of Science Education, PO Box 1020, Bindura, Zimbabwe

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168 1723720429 Research Biotica Nanotechnology in Plant Disease Management Plant Pathology 56-62

The mesmerizing science of nanotechnology is the process of manipulating atoms and molecules to produce materials characterized by their minuscule dimensions, including nanoparticles ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers. Despite being relatively new areas of study, nanoscience and nanotechnology are rapidly emerging as the forefront of research, continually generating the latest discoveries. Every year, nearly 20-40% crop losses occur mainly due to diseases and pests. The only method currently used to control plant diseases are toxic pesticides and fungicides, which pose risks to both the human well-being and the ecosystem. To reduce these problems the only needed solution is nanotechnology. It employs the use of nanoparticles synthesized by various methods. Plant diseases are managed effectively by using diverse nanoparticles, like silver nanoparticles, copper nanoparticles and zinc oxide nanoparticles. The rapid detection of plant pathogens, the biosensor-based control of pests and diseases, soil management and other areas are all greatly impacted by nanotechnology.

Characterization, Nanofungicides, Nanoparticles, Nanotechnology, Plant disease management, Synthesis https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.2.2023/56-62 2023-05-07 Review Articles Dumpapenchala Vijayreddy, Pranab Dutta and Krishti Rekha Puzari

Dumpapenchala Vijayreddy*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, School of Crop Protection, College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Pranab Dutta

Dept. of Plant Pathology, School of Crop Protection, College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Krishti Rekha Puzari

Dept. of Plant Pathology, School of Crop Protection, College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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169 1723721033 Research Biotica Examining the Oral Preference on Hedonic Likings and Its Impacts on Sales and Pricing of Different Bamboo Shoots and Their Processed Forms in Arunachal Pradesh, India Biological Science 63-69

An investigation was made to understand the relationship between the sensory perception of residents of Arunachal Pradesh and their preference for bamboo shoots from the following species: Bambusa balcooa Roxb., Bambusa pallida Munro, Bambusa tulda Roxb., B. vulgaris Schrad. Ex J.C. Wendl, Dendrocalamus giganteus Munro, Dendrocalamus hamiltonii Nees & Arn. ex Munro, and Phyllostachys bambusoides Siebold and Zucc., and their processed products namely Hidung, Eup and Ekung. Interviews were conducted among 250 participants who were given the freedom of choice to rate hedonic likings on Taste, Flavour and Texture. On this basis, an assessment was also carried out to establish the observed preferences and their influence on sales and prices of the food from the period of 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2013-14. The strongest association, which affects the price and volume of sales of bamboo shoots as well as the processed forms, was found to be related in order of texture, followed by taste and flavour.

Arunachal Pradesh, Bamboo shoots, Hedonic likings, Sales, Sensory evaluation https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.2.2023/63-69 2023-05-27 Research Articles Ch. Sadananda and L.B. Singha

Ch. Sadananda*

Dept. of Forestry, Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Institute of Agricultural Science (PDDUIAS), Utlou, Manipur (795 134), India

L.B. Singha

Dept. of Life Sciences, Manipur University, Canchipur, Imphal, Manipur (795 003), India

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170 1723723581 Research Biotica Impact of Climate Change on Fruit Production: Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies in Northeast Himalayan Region Horticulture 70-78

Numerous horticulture crops, both well-known and less well-known underutilized fruit crops native to this region, are grown in abundance in the north-eastern Himalayan region. If grown to their full capacity, these crops will produce significant revenue and contribute to the local economy. There is however, a decrease in their availability even before being fully exploited due to losses resulting from many factors including climate change and related variability. The primary consequence of climate change, among many others, is the changes in the agro-ecological region that are observable in some places where there is the replacement of native fruits, many of which originated at higher elevations, with low chilling-required fruits. In the Ukhrul district of Manipur (Northeast India), the abundance of many local temperate crops of the Prunus species such as peaches, plums, cherries, pears, bird cherry (Prunus nepalensis) and others like walnut, wild apple (Docynia indica), Pyrus pashia, Myrica spp., Rhus semialatus, Rubus spp., Eleagnus spp., Elaeocarpus floribundus, Spondias axillaris, etc. are reduced and being replaced by low chilling requiring crops like kiwi, avocado, low chilling apples (Anna, Golden Dorsett, HRMN 99) and area under these crops particularly kiwi is increasing. In household gardens at higher altitudes, tropical fruits like mango, banana and guava are now thriving; in the past, the harsh winter frosts made it impossible even for the seedlings to survive. Despite employing rootstocks that are more resistant to higher temperature, kiwi is replacing the apple-growing regions in the foothills of Bomdila and Dirang in Arunachal Pradesh, since the requisite quality is not achieved.

Agro-ecological shift, Climate change, Fruits, Low chilling https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.2.2023/70-78 2023-06-05 Review Articles K.S. Thingreingam Irenaeus, S.K. Mitra, T. Bhattacharjee, B. Thangjam, A. Thejangulie and T.K. Maity

K.S. Thingreingam Irenaeus*

Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, Agartala, Tripura (799 210), India

S.K. Mitra

Section Tropical and Subtropical Fruits, ISHS (Belgium), Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal (741 235), India

T. Bhattacharjee

Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, Agartala, Tripura (799 210), India

B. Thangjam

Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, Agartala, Tripura (799 210), India

A. Thejangulie

ICAR-RC for NEH Region, Arunachal Centre, Basar, Arunachal Pradesh (791 101), India

T.K. Maity

Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, Agartala, Tripura (799 210), India

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171 1723724183 Research Biotica Pre-Flowering Sprays of Zinc and Boron Influenced Panicle Emergence and Panicle Growth of Amrapali Mango Agriculture 79-84

The present investigation was conducted at the instructional farm of Rathindra Krishi Vigyan Kendra under Palli Siksha Bhavana (Institute of Agriculture), Visva Bharati University, Sriniketan which comes under in humid sub-tropical region of West Bengal during the year 2015-16 and 2016-17 to investigate the influence of pre-flowering sprays of zinc and boron on panicle emergence and panicle growth of Amrapali mango. The present study included nine treatment combinations of sprays of zinc sulphate and borax at pre flowering stage replicated three times as T1: Control (distilled water), T2: ZnSO4 @ 0.5%, T3: ZnSO4 @ 1.0%, T4: Borax @ 0.5%, T5: Borax @ 1.0%, T6: ZnSO4 @ 0.5% + Borax @ 0.5%, T7: ZnSO4 @ 0.5% + Borax @ 1.0%, T8: ZnSO4 @ 1.0% + Borax @ 0.5% and T9: ZnSO4 @ 1.0% + Borax @ 1.0% in Randomized Block Design (RBD). The sprays were done in three cycles at 15 days interval starting from end of the November, keeping 3 days gap between zinc sulphate and borax spray in combination treatments. Minimum days to panicle emergence and flowering, maximum panicle length and different types of branches panicle-1 were recorded under ZnSO4 @ 1.0% + Borax @ 0.5% spray. In conclusion, ZnSO4 @ 1.0% + Borax @ 0.5% treatment can be used as pre flowering spray for early flowering with better growth of panicles of mango (cv. Amrapali).

Boron, Mango, Panicle emergence, Panicle growth, Zinc https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.2.2023/79-84 2023-06-17 Research Articles Prahlad Deb and Soheli Reza

Prahlad Deb*

Dept. of Horticulture and Postharvest Technology, Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal (731 236), India

Soheli Reza

Dept. of Horticulture and Postharvest Technology, Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal (731 236), India

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172 1723776289 Research Biotica Studies on in vitro Growth Rate of Culturable Gut Bacterial Flora of Three Stem Borers Infesting Rice (Oryza sativa) Agriculture 97-101

Stem borers are the most devastating pest of rice globally. The present experiment was conducted to compare the in vitro growth rate under different temperature conditions of culturable gut bacteria isolated from three different rice stem borers viz., Scirpophaga incertulas (YSB), Chilo suppresalis (SSB) and Sesamia inferens (PSB). Growth was recorded spectrophotometrically by measuring optical density at 660 nm. The gut bacterial consortia of YSB and PSB grew better than those of SSB at lower temperatures (15 and 20 °C) while that of PSB performed equally well in the entire range of temperatures. The gut bacterial consortium of SSB grew luxuriantly with the increase in temperature with the peak growth at 30 °C. There was no marked difference in the growth trend of all the bacterial isolates at 30 °C. These results indicate differential temperature preferendum of gut flora and give insights into their possible relation with behavioural response of the host insect species at different temperature.

Growth rate, Gut bacteria, Host insect, Oryza sativa, Rice, Stem borers https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.3.2023/97-101 2023-07-11 Research Articles Subrata Goswami, S.B. Das and P.C. Rath

Subrata Goswami*

Dept. of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Dept. of Entomology, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

Crop Protection Division, ICAR-National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, Odisha (753 006), India

S.B. Das

Dept. of Entomology, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

P.C. Rath

Crop Protection Division, ICAR-National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack, Odisha (753 006), India

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173 1723777615 Research Biotica Biopriming of Tomato Seeds with Native Trichoderma Species for Enhanced Seedlings Vigour Agriculture 113-116

The present research was carried out to investigate the effect of tomato seed biopriming using six native Trichoderma isolates under laboratory conditions. The seeds of tomato were primed in Trichoderma isolates and as a control treatment seeds were treated in sterile distilled water. It was observed that all the six native Trichoderma isolates showed good performance with respect to growth, germination percentage and vigour index of tomato seedlings as compared to control. Among the different Trichoderma isolates tested, T5 isolate showed highest shoot growth (5.44 cm), root growth (3.74 cm), germination percentage (90.0%) and seedling vigour index (826.37) followed by T4 isolate. The lowest shoot growth (4.22 cm), root growth (3.07 cm), germination percentage (56.7%) and seedling vigour index (412.70) were recorded in untreated control.

Biopriming, Seedling vigour, Solanum lycopersicum L., Tomato, Trichoderma species, Vegetable crop https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.3.2023/113-116 2023-08-21 Research Articles Dipankar Mandal, Rini Pal and Sanjukta Mohapatra

Dipankar Mandal*

Regional Research and Technology Transfer Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Chiplima, Sambalpur, Odisha (768 025), India

Rini Pal

Regional Research and Technology Transfer Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Chiplima, Sambalpur, Odisha (768 025), India

Sanjukta Mohapatra

Regional Research and Technology Transfer Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Chiplima, Sambalpur, Odisha (768 025), India

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174 1723778003 Research Biotica Effect of Sulfuric Acid Scarification followed by Organic Mulching for Papaya Seedling Growth and Development, in Pot Culture Agriculture 117-121

A major obstacle to the development of papaya seeds is the aril, or sarcotesta, which is present in papaya and results in low and sluggish germination. Hence sulfuric acid was applied in order to evaluate its scarifying effect and materials like rice bran, wood chips and saw dust were used as organic mulching material for further facilitating the process of seed germination. The experiment was consisted of seven treatments and each treatment had 3 replications. The treatments were T1 (sulphuric acid scarification for 1 min + Saw dust mulching), T2 (sulphuric acid scarification for 1 min + Wood chips), T3 (sulphuric acid scarification for 1 min + Rice bran mulching), T4 (sulphuric acid scarification for 30 sec + Saw dust), T5 (sulphuric acid scarification for 30 sec + Wood chips), T6 (scarification for 30 sec + Rice bran) and T7 control (water). Experiment was carried on completely randomized design. Total leaf count and their length, number of rootlets, plant height, length of roots, germination percentage and chlorophyll content were the parameters which were observed in periodic intervals of seedling growth. From the entire experiment it can be stated that, acid scarification and use of organic mulches proved good for the papaya seedling development. However, amongst the various treatments, sulphuric acid scarification for one minute with use of wood chips as an organic mulch material was best, documenting proper results for the different attributes.

Acid, Mulch, Organic, Papaya, Seeds, Study https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.3.2023/117-121 2023-09-16 Research Articles Serma Saren and Ankan Das

Serma Saren

Dept. of Horticulture, Institute of Agricultural Science, University of Calcutta, 51/2 Hazra Road, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 019), India

Ankan Das*

Dept. of Horticulture, Institute of Agricultural Science, University of Calcutta, 51/2 Hazra Road, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 019), India

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175 1723815230 Research Biotica Role of Artificial Intelligence in Crop Protection Agriculture 132-138

In the era of 21st century, agriculture is facing many challenges now-a-days to feed the world population. The population growth is increasing day by day and it expected to cross 10 billion by 2050. Agriculture farming plays significant role in growth of Indian economy. India stands second in farm production all over the world. After the green revolution, India face production loss with an estimate of US$ 36 billion. The agriculture production decreases mainly because of insect pests, diseases and weeds in important agricultural crops. Hence, there is a need of transition in farming system to adopt advanced and innovative technologies for more and sustainable production. In recent years Artificial intelligence gained popularity in agriculture and provides solutions in several areas like big data analysis, pest and disease forewarning models, mobile applications in IPM, Information and ICT based crop-advisory system, insect detection, pest and disease identification, etc. In the proposed paper, AI based applications discussed in detail to provide insights into innovative technologies and pave the way for knowledge dissemination and adoption of AI based technologies for more effective crop production and protection.

Agriculture, Artificial intelligence, Crop protection, Integrated pest management, Insect detection, Mobile application https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.4.2023/132-138 2023-10-25 Review Articles M. Pratheepa, K. Subaharan, Richa Varshney, T. Venkatesan and S.N. Sushil

M. Pratheepa*

ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 024), India

K. Subaharan

ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 024), India

Richa Varshney

ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 024), India

T. Venkatesan

ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 024), India

S.N. Sushil

ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 024), India

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176 1723815566 Biotica Research Today Beyond the Surface: Bacterial Biofilms as Key Player in Plant Disease Management Agriculture 233-235

Soil environments are constantly changing and the region around plant roots, known as the rhizosphere, hosts an incredible variety of microorganisms. In this area, microorganisms residing near plant roots compete for resources like water, nutrients and space, which aids in nutrient absorption and offers protection against various external threats. Interactions within the rhizosphere involve not only soil and microfauna but also microbial interactions among themselves and with plants. Bacterial biofilms, which are collections of bacterial cells adhering to surfaces, are crucial for cooperation among microorganisms. Microbial cells encased EPS. Bacterial cells are shielded by a protective matrix, guarding them against a range of environmental threats such as extreme pH levels, UV radiation, antimicrobial substances, dryness, sudden changes in osmotic pressure and predatory organisms. Biofilms occur naturally in animals, plants and various environmental settings and they can have either advantageous or detrimental or pathogenic effects.

Bacterial, Biofilm, Exopolysaccharide matrix, Quorum sensing NIL 2024-05-07 Popular Article Madhu J., Ashwini J.H., Godavari, Sindhu D. and Pradeep C.

Madhu J.*

Dept. of Plant Pathology ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Ashwini J.H.

Dept. of Plant Pathology ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Godavari

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Sindhu D.

Division of Genetics ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Pradeep C.

NIPB, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

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177 1723816710 Biotica Research Today Do Plants Talk? Agriculture 236-238

Plants can produce visual, chemical and tactile cues. One such signal produced by the plants is the sound. Plants emit information in the form of airborne sound signal under stress conditions that can be remotely monitored. These sound signals carry detailed information about the health of the plant and can be used for plant monitoring and improving agriculture practices. Nevertheless, there have not been sufficient studies conducted regarding the ability of plants to generate airborne sounds that other organisms could potentially be able to detect. Interest in the airborne sound emissions from drought-stressed plants has led to theoretical notions about communication between plants and other organisms as well as between plants. Machine learning models can distinguish between different plant conditions based on emitted sounds. This study suggests a new and unexplored form of plant communication and signalling.

Abiotic stress, Artificial Intelligence, Phyto-acoustics, Plant signalling and interaction NIL 2024-05-09 Popular Article Sneha Hajare and Arya S. Nair

Sneha Hajare*

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Kerala Agriculture University (KAU), Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Arya S. Nair

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Kerala Agriculture University (KAU), Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

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178 1723817306 Biotica Research Today Millets: A Potential Alternative of Rice and Wheat for Water-Scarce Region in India Agriculture 239-242

In the face of escalating environmental and societal challenges, millets play a pivotal role in bolstering food security and combating water scarcity. As climate change intensifies, millets emerge as a vital, drought-resistant crop that can thrive in arid regions, offering a sustainable solution to the growing demands of a burgeoning population. This article discusses the resilience of millets, their nutritional profile and the imperative to enhance their yield in comparison to staple cereals. Concurrently, it explores the critical issue of water scarcity in India, analyzing its implications for development and public health and advocating for strategic water management and sustainable agricultural practices.

Climate change, Drought, Millets, Sustainable agriculture NIL 2024-05-11 Popular Article Sourakanti Sarkar, Aditya Pratap Singh and Sumana Balo

Sourakanti Sarkar

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765 022), India

Aditya Pratap Singh*

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765 022), India

Sumana Balo

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765 022), India

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179 1723817968 Biotica Research Today Bioremediation of Organic Pollutants Agriculture 243-245

Bioremediation, a greener approach towards sustainable environmental practices, relies on selecting a microbial strain with appropriate metabolic requirements for a given pollutant. The in-situ technique facilitates bioremediation in the contaminated site by adding oxygen, nutrients and stress factors. On the other hand, ex-situ techniques apprehend biodegradation in a controlled environment outside the native site. In both cases, the initial accessibility of the microbe to the pollutant is crucial, as it allows for further oxidation and conversion into an intermediate for its metabolism.

Bioremediation, Organic pollutants, Pesticides, Plastics NIL 2024-05-12 Popular Article T. Aswathy, S. Anu Rajan, N. Chitra and V.I. Soumya

T. Aswathy*

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

S. Anu Rajan

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

N. Chitra

Dept. of Microbiology, RARS (SZ), College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

V.I. Soumya

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

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180 1723818646 Biotica Research Today Sweet Potatoes: A Sustainable Solution for Food Security and Climate Change Agriculture 246-248

In a world grappling with food insecurity and the challenges of climate change, sweet potatoes emerge as a beacon of hope. This article delves into the multifaceted potential of sweet potatoes as a linchpin in efforts to combat food insecurity and climate variability. It explores the unique attributes of sweet potatoes as a sustainable crop, their resilience in the face of environmental stressors and their pivotal role in enhancing food security, particularly in vulnerable communities. Drawing upon recent research findings and expert insights, we are made aware of the potential of sweet potatoes to mitigate the impacts of climate change on agriculture while simultaneously nourishing populations worldwide.

Climate change, Food security, Sustainability, Sweet potato NIL 2024-05-13 Popular Article Disha Baishnabi, Hanume Gowda, R. Arutselvan and V.B.S. Chauhan

Disha Baishnabi*

College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Hanume Gowda

ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Regional Station, Dumuduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

R. Arutselvan

ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Regional Station, Dumuduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

V.B.S. Chauhan

ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Regional Station, Dumuduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

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181 1723862192 Research Biotica Population Fluctuation of Gram Pod Borer in Rabi Pulses of West Bengal Agriculture 145-152

During the rabi season of 2021-22, a field research has been carried out at BCKV [District Seed Farm (AB Block)] Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal for studying the pattern of incidence of gram pod borer or tomato fruit borer (Helicoverpa armigera Hubn.) in relation with prevailing meteorological parameters and to record the population fluctuation in four rabi pulse crops, viz., chickpea (var. KWR 108 and JAKI 9218), fieldpea (var. Rachna and VL 42), lentil (var. IPL 220 and L 4727) and grasspea (var. Prateek and Ratan). During the vegetative stage of the fieldpea, the Helicoverpa population first emerged, then gradually increased and declined near maturity; in lentil and grasspea it was recorded from flowering stage and persisted until maturity; in chickpea it was noticed from pod formation stage and continued up to maturity. None of the weather variables were significantly correlated with the Helicoverpa larvae population recorded on fieldpea and lentil while, regression studies denote that maximum (Max. T) and minimum (Min. T) temperature exhibited the most impact on the occurrence of Helicoverpa in grasspea and chickpea, respectively. The comparative study revealed that, Helicoverpa first appeared on lentil and field pea during the first week of January; then population appeared on grasspea during the end of second fortnight of January. Occurrence of the pest was noticed on lentil, field pea and grasspea in January and February and after that the population shifted to grasspea, fieldpea and chickpea during February to March. Chickpea was the most preferred crop as the highest population observed on this crop coinciding with pod formation stage.

Correlation, Helicoverpa, Population shifting, Rabi pulse, Regression, Weather parameters https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.4.2023/145-152 2023-11-23 Research Articles Soumita Bera, Sabyasachi Ray and A. Banerjee

Soumita Bera*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

Sabyasachi Ray

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

A. Banerjee

AICRP on MULLaRP, Directorate of Research, BCKV, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

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182 1723862603 Research Biotica Host Reaction of Some Local Tomato Varieties against Root Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White) Chitwood Agriculture 153-157

An experiment was conducted for the investigations on screening on different local tomato varieties against RKN, Meloidogyne incognita under net house conditions during the year 2021-22. Out of thirty-five varieties only four (Abhimanyu, HY- Rocky, HY- 1276 and HY-Red Boar) were found to be moderately resistant to the nematode having root gall index between 2.1 to 3.0. Twenty-one varieties were found to be susceptible having root gall index between 3.1 to 4.0, but the remaining varieties were quite vulnerable to the nematode having root gall index between 4.1 to 5.0. Additionally, it was discovered that, in comparison to the other tomato types, Amlan and HY-3682 (Special) had the most gall infestation. All the varieties showed significant differences in their responses or reactions to root-knot nematodes from moderately resistant to vulnerable.

Gall index, Resistant, Root knot nematode, Susceptible, Tomato, Varieties https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.4.2023/153-157 2023-12-02 Research Articles Shanowly Mondal (Ghosh), Bibek Singh Sardar, Amit Gope, Niranjan Mandi and Gautam Chakraborty

Shanowly Mondal (Ghosh)*

AICRP on Nematodes in Agriculture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

Bibek Singh Sardar

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

Amit Gope

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

Niranjan Mandi

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

Gautam Chakraborty

RRS-Jhargram, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

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183 1723863231 Research Biotica Characterization of Traditional Rice Varieties for Leaf Blast Resistant Genes Pi5, Pi54, Pi9 and Pi2 using Gene Specific Markers Agriculture 158-161

Magnaporthe oryzae poses a serious risk to rice growing regions worldwide. To combat this, future breeding efforts that aim to develop resistant varieties will need to identify and screen blast-resistant cultivars from existing germplasms. Thus, present study aimed to identify four major blast resistant genes (Pi54, Pi5, Pi2 and Pi9) in 20 traditional rice varieties using functional and linked markers. Results of the present study identified that fifteen traditional rice landraces were found to possess at least one resistant gene and three traditional landraces (Aanaikomban, Chenellu and Jai Sri Ram) had two resistant genes. These identified traditional rice landraces could be used as promising donor against rice blast disease for future rice breeding programmes to develop superior cultivars.

Gene linked markers, Functional marker, Blast, Traditional varieties https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.4.2023/158-161 2023-12-13 Research Articles A. Shanmugam, R. Suresh, A. Ramanathan, P. Anandhi, R. Pushpa and D. Sassikumar

A. Shanmugam

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

R. Suresh

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

A. Ramanathan

Agricultural Research Station, Kattuthottam, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu (613 501), India

P. Anandhi

Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute, Aduthurai, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu (612 101), India

R. Pushpa

Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute, Aduthurai, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu (612 101), India

D. Sassikumar*

Sugarcane Research Station, Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu (607 001), India

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184 1723863932 Research Biotica Effects of Betacyfluthrin + Imidacloprid OD (Solomon) against Major Plant Hoppers on Rice Ecosystem in Burdwan, West Bengal Agriculture 162-168

The current study was conducted to evaluate the effects of three distinct levels of concentration of Betacyfluthrin 90 g l-1 + Imidacloprid 210 g l-1 OD (Solomon) (45 g a.i. ha-1, 60 g a.i. ha-1 and 75 g a.i. ha-1) during kharif 2020 and 2021 against major plant hoppers of rice. White backed plant hopper (Sogatella furcifera) and Brown plant hopper (Nilaparvata lugens) were found as major plant hoppers on rice field. Solomon @ 75 g a.i. ha-1 was recorded significantly efficient against BPH and WBPH in both crop seasons (kharif 2020 and kharif 2021) with highest reduction over control (80.42% & 76.22% and 79.65% & 83.54%, respectively). A noticeably increased yield of rice grains was observed in case of Solomon @ 75 g a.i. ha-1 treatment than in control plot in kharif 2020 (73.78 q ha-1) and kharif 2021 (68.03 q ha-1). Although the natural enemy population in the plots that were treated with Solomon @ 10-30 g a.i. ha-1 had no significant negative impact than the untreated control and other treated plots.

Bio-efficacy, BPH, Kharif, Rice, Treatment, WBPH https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/5.4.2023/162-168 2023-12-23 Research Articles Sourav Sen and Lakshman Chandra Patel

Sourav Sen*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

Lakshman Chandra Patel

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

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185 1723868121 Biotica Research Today Role of Semiochemicals on Insect Pests of Crops and Their Natural Enemies Agriculture 257-260

Semiochemicals are chemical compounds emitted by living organisms to convey information within species or between species. They play a crucial role in insect communication, including mate attraction, alarm signalling, host and food location. Understanding about these semiochemicals’ influences behaviour and ecology of pests and their biological control agents, such as predators and parasitoids are very crucial in order to use them in pest management. Semiochemical based approaches, including pheromone traps and repellents, have been developed for pest management aiming to disrupt insect pest mating patterns or repel them from valuable crops. However, the unintended consequences on non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, highlight the importance of considering broader ecological implications. The present study aims to provide insights into optimizing semiochemical-based strategies for sustainable pest management while minimizing negative impacts on beneficial insect populations and overall ecosystem health.

Insect behaviour, Integrated pest management, Natural enemies, Semiochemicals NIL 2024-05-16 Popular Article V. Aswini and R.P. Soundararajan

V. Aswini

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellayani, Thiruvanathapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

R.P. Soundararajan*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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186 1723868619 Biotica Research Today Status of Aqua-Medicine Used by Fish Farmer in Dhamdha, Durg District, Chhattisgarh Agriculture 261-263

This study aims to give a review of the present chemical use procedures in Dhamdha's aquaculture industry. Information was gathered and a survey of 41 fish growers was conducted. Using standardized questionnaires, a survey was carried out regarding the usage of chemical products from October 2023 to February 2024. It has been stated that chemical goods used in aquaculture include probiotics, disinfectants, sanitizers, feed additives and compounds for treating water and sediment. The study shows that, compared to other Chhattisgarh aquaculture-producing sectors, the usage of chemical products is still comparatively low, despite the rapid rise of commercial aquaculture in Dhamdha. However, the study found an enormous quantity of chemical substances that are used and that need to regulate and evaluated in terms of their possible effects on Animal health and the environment, as is already the case in the majority of industrialized nations.

Aqua-medicine, Dhamdha, Fish farmer, Probiotics https://doi.org/10.54083/BioResToday/6.5.2024/261-263 2024-05-18 Short Communication Kamlesh Kumar Dhritlahre, N. Sarang and Basant Singh

Kamlesh Kumar Dhritlahre*

Fisheries Polytechnic, Dhamdha, Dau Shri Vasudev Chandrakar Kamdhenu Vishwavidyalaya, Chhattisgarh (491 331), India

N. Sarang

Fisheries Polytechnic, Dhamdha, Dau Shri Vasudev Chandrakar Kamdhenu Vishwavidyalaya, Chhattisgarh (491 331), India

Basant Singh

Fisheries Polytechnic, Dhamdha, Dau Shri Vasudev Chandrakar Kamdhenu Vishwavidyalaya, Chhattisgarh (491 331), India

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187 1723876074 Biotica Research Today Biomining: The Future Smart-Mining Agriculture 287-289

Biomining is the process of extraction of economically important metals like copper, gold, nickel and uranium by using microorganisms. This process plays a significant role in bioleaching and bio-oxidation. Bioleaching is used in the process of extraction of copper in which the insoluble metal is changed into soluble metal using microorganisms; whereas bio-oxidation is used for the extraction of gold. The high cost, energy demand and pollution of traditional mining techniques have kindled the interest in biomining technology in recent years.

Bioleaching, Biooxidation, Metals, Ores NIL 2024-05-27 Popular Article Maddala Bhavana Haripriya, Mihira J. and Nandana V. Nair

Maddala Bhavana Haripriya

College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Mihira J.*

College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Nandana V. Nair

College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

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188 1723876673 Biotica Research Today Success Story on Enhancement of Potato Production using Bio-Inputs Agriculture 290-292

Mr. Sajal Rai of Mabong village showed the example that agricultural crops can be grown successfully by integrated organic practices. The adoption of integrated organic practices not only showed significant increase in yield compared to the farmers’ practices with highest CBR of 1:4.32. Mr. Rai become source of encourage for not only the Mabong area but also nearby villages.

Bioinputs, Organic, Pest and diseases, Potato NIL 2024-05-27 Success story Pranab Dutta, Abhay Kr. Pandey, R. Varshney, Madhusmita Mahanta, T. Rahman, J. Sutnga and Samaritan Dutta

Pranab Dutta*

CoA, Kyrdemkulai, CAU (Imphal), Ri Bhoi, Meghalaya (793 104), India

Abhay Kr. Pandey

TRA-NBRRDC, Nagrakata, West Bengal (735 225), India

R. Varshney

ICAR-NBAIR, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 024), India

Madhusmita Mahanta

CAU-CPGSAS, CAU (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

T. Rahman

CAU-CPGSAS, CAU (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

J. Sutnga

CAU-CPGSAS, CAU (Imphal), Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Samaritan Dutta

ADAC&RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Navalurkottapattu, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

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189 1723903853 Biotica Research Today Spectral Analysis: A Modern Approach to Soil Quality Assessment Agriculture 303-305

Quality assessment of soil has become an important activity in the view of protecting and preserving soil as well as sustaining its function. Soil spectroscopy has proven to be a rapid, cost-effective and environmentally friendly method of soil assessment, effectively addressing many of the limitations of conventional methods. The spectral soil analysis includes preparing soil samples, acquiring spectral data, pre-processing of data and selecting a suitable statistical model for the desired output. Different soil attributes exhibit sensitive bands in the spectral reflectance curve. By leveraging the changes in reflectance values at distinct wavebands, soil attributes can be accurately evaluated. The interference of chromophores with physical properties of soil, overlapping of absorption features sometimes restricts the use of spectroscopy. Incorporating supplementary variables into the modelling process can alleviate this constraint and improve the effectiveness of spectroscopic analysis.

Soil analysis, Soil quality, Spectroscopy, Remote sensing NIL 2024-05-30 Popular Article Riaj Rahaman and Sunanda Biswas

Riaj Rahaman

Division of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Sunanda Biswas*

Division of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

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190 1723904281 Biotica Research Today Mahua: An Eco-Friendly Solution for Economic and Environmental Sustainability Agriculture 306-308

Mahua (Madhuca longifolia) is a highly valued tree indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, renowned for its economic, medicinal and environmental benefits. Mahua thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and is adaptable to various soil types, making it an ideal crop for regions with harsh environmental conditions. Propagation is typically through seeds, with optimal planting at the onset of the monsoon. The tree requires minimal maintenance once established and is highly drought-resistant. Medicinally, Mahua flowers, seeds, oil, bark and leaves are utilized for their therapeutic properties, treating ailments such as bronchitis, skin diseases, rheumatism and digestive issues. Economically, Mahua supports rural livelihoods by selling flowers, seeds and oil, while environmentally, it aids in soil conservation, biodiversity and climate mitigation. As research continues to unveil the full potential of Mahua, its role in health, economy and sustainability is increasingly recognized, underscoring its importance as a multipurpose tree.

Biodiversity, Mahua, Traditional medicine, Tropical and subtropical climates NIL 2024-06-03 Popular Article Brijesh Patel, Abhishek Sonkar, Sujeet Kumar Patel, Aman Kumar Maurya and Niharika Gurudev

Brijesh Patel*

Dept. of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry and ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Abhishek Sonkar

Dept. of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry and ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Sujeet Kumar Patel

Dept. of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry and ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Aman Kumar Maurya

Dept. of Fruit Science, Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh (284 003), India

Niharika Gurudev

Dept. of Fruit Science, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 110), India

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191 1723906346 Biotica Research Today La Niña Strikes Again: Brace for Big Changes in Agriculture? Agriculture 311-313

The Indian economy heavily depends on agriculture and faces significant challenges and opportunities due to climatic phenomena like El Niño and La Niña. With the primary forecast from the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Climate Centre indicating a shift from El Niño to La Niña, India is expected to experience above-average monsoon rainfall from July to September. This change is likely to benefit the Kharif crops, which rely heavily on monsoon rains, potentially improving yields and agricultural productivity. However, excessive rainfall also poses risks such as flooding, increased pest and disease prevalence and potential crop damage. Effective water management, flood control measures and integrated pest management practices are essential to mitigate these risks. Additionally, government policies, crop insurance and timely weather forecasts are crucial in supporting farmers' adaptation strategies.

Agricultural productivity, Climate change, Kharif crops, La Niña NIL 2024-06-06 Popular Article Raj Pratik Das, Sushree Sanskruti Lenka and Aditya Pratap Singh

Raj Pratik Das*

School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765 022), India

Sushree Sanskruti Lenka

School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765 022), India

Aditya Pratap Singh

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765 022), India

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192 1724041362 Biotica Research Today Overview of Indian Sericulture: Types, Production and Economic Significance Agriculture 317-320

Silk, known as the "Queen of Textiles," is a natural fiber produced in over 60 countries, with India as the biggest consumer and second-largest producer. The five commercial silks, Muga, Eri, Oak Tasar, Tropical Tasar and Mulberry are exclusively produced in India, each from different silkworm species. The sericulture industry in India employs 8.8 million people and generated Rs. 1,848.96 crores (US$ 248.56 million) in export earnings in 2021-22. Mulberry silk, from Bombyx mori, constitutes the majority of production, with Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir producing 92% of it. In 2022-23, India produced 36,582 MT of silk, with mulberry silk at 27,654 MT. Jharkhand, Orissa and Chhattisgarh make tasar silk, while Oak Tasar comes from sub-Himalayan regions. Eri silk, from Philosamia ricini, is prominent in the Northeastern states and Muga silk, from Antheraea assamensis, is unique to Assam. India's cultural and traditional market strengthens its global silk industry presence.

Mulberry, Silk, Textile, Vanya NIL 2024-06-10 Popular Article Ankush Subhash Gadge, Ashok Limbaji Jadhav, Pushpalatha, M., Megaladevi, P. and Sowmiya, K.

Ankush Subhash Gadge*

Central Silk Board, Research and Extension Centre, Aurangabad, Maharashtra (431 003), India

Ashok Limbaji Jadhav

Central Silk Board, Research and Extension Centre, Parbhani, Maharashtra (431 402), India

Pushpalatha, M.

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate Institute, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Maharashtra (413 722), India

Megaladevi, P.

Central Silk Board, Central Sericultural Research & Training Institute, Mysuru, Karnataka (570 008), India

Sowmiya, K.

Central Silk Board, Central Sericultural Research & Training Institute, Mysuru, Karnataka (570 008), India

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193 1724042053 Biotica Research Today Vector Borne Disease of Banana (Kokkan) and Their Management Agriculture 321-323

Banana (Musa spp.) cultivation is threatened by vector-borne diseases, notably Banana Kokkan disease, which is spread by four species of aphids. BBTV, a key concern, reduces bunch weights and fruit quality, often leading to fruit rejection and unmarketable, malformed bunches. Effective management includes using virus-free planting material, controlling aphid populations and employing biological agents. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is essential, combining resistant varieties, cultural practices and minimal insecticide use. Key vector management strategies include regular field sanitation, early detection monitoring, promoting natural predators and farmer education. These methods ensure effective disease control and sustainable banana production.

Aphid control, Banana diseases, Integrated pest management, Virus-free planting material NIL 2024-06-11 Popular Article Aditya Kumar Sharma and Shailendra Kumar Mishra

Aditya Kumar Sharma*

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (229 224), India

Shailendra Kumar Mishra

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

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194 1724042591 Biotica Research Today Fusion Proteins as a Resistance Factor against Insect Pests Agriculture 324-326

The development of insect-resistant crops has been a significant challenge in agriculture. Fusion proteins technology, a promising approach, combines the properties of different proteins to confer resistance against insect pests. These fusion proteins are engineered by fusing genes from different sources, such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), scorpion toxin-based, spider venom-based and other insecticidal proteins. The resulting fusion proteins exhibit enhanced insecticidal activity, broader insect target range and improved stability compared to individual proteins. Moreover, they can overcome the development of resistance in insect populations, a major concern with conventional insect-resistant crops. Fusion proteins have shown promising results in various crop systems against lepidopteran, coleopteran and hemipteran pests. However, optimizing their expression, stability and bio-safety requires further research for sustainable insect pest management.

Fusion proteins, Insect-resistant crops, Insecticidal proteins, Resistance NIL 2024-06-12 Popular Article Marri Keerthana, Arindam Pal and M.S. Sai Reddy

Marri Keerthana*

Dept. of Entomology, PG College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Arindam Pal

Dept. of Entomology, PG College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

M.S. Sai Reddy

Dept. of Entomology, PG College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

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195 1724047358 Biotica Research Today Bioremediation: A Novel Approach towards Waste Management Agriculture 336-338

The environment quality directly linked to life’s quality on earth. In the present scenario due to the increasing growth and development in the human society, the stability in the climate is drastically changing. Due to the increase in manufacturing industries and intensification in agriculture, results in release of harmful chemical compounds which leads to soil and water contamination. Therefore, we need a biological mechanism with which we can enhance the quality of our life by transforming and eliminating the organic or inorganic pollutants. Bioremediation is considered to be the best alternative nowadays for removal of these contaminants from environment. Bioremediation uses natural occurring microorganisms (fungi and bacteria) used to remove environmental contamination. This biological mechanism is safer than the existing physical and chemical treatments.

Bioremediation, Climate, Quality, Vegetable NIL 2024-06-17 Popular Article Shivali Dhiman, Balbir Singh Dogra, Shiv Pratap Singh and Anuj Sohi

Shivali Dhiman

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Neri, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh (177 001), India

Balbir Singh Dogra*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Neri, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh (177 001), India

Shiv Pratap Singh

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Neri, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh (177 001), India

Anuj Sohi

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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196 1724050452 Biotica Research Today Role of Food Engineering in Formulation of Texture-Modified Foods Agriculture 345-348

Texture-modified foods (TMFs) are specially designed for individuals with chewing or swallowing difficulties, such as the elderly and those with dysphagia. This article explores the engineering principles and techniques involved in the formulation of TMFs, focusing on rheology, mechanical testing and thermal processing. Advanced technologies like 3D food printing and high-pressure processing are highlighted for their role in creating safe, nutritious and palatable TMFs. The study underscores the importance of sensory evaluation, nutritional adequacy and consumer acceptance in the development of TMFs, aiming to improve the quality of life for affected populations.

Consumer acceptance, Food engineering, Nutrition, Texture-modified foods NIL 2024-06-23 Popular Article Piyusha Mahendra Matondkar and Kritanjal Goswami

Piyusha Mahendra Matondkar*

Division of Agricultural Engineering (Process and Food Engineering), ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Kritanjal Goswami

Division of Agricultural Engineering (Process and Food Engineering), ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

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197 1724050952 Biotica Research Today Indian Spiny Loach Seed Production and Rearing Techniques Agriculture 349-352

Indian spiny loach has a greater market demand in Indian local market due to its delicious and nutritious meat. This demand is met only through wild collection of this fish from natural resources. Wild collection coupled with burgeoning anthropogenic threats to natural ecosystems, especially aquatic ecosystems, significantly threatening the biodiversity of this fish in wild conditions which is placing an immense pressure on the captive breeding and seed production of this species. Moreover, there is a huge demand for this species among the farmers for practicing commercial fish farming. Keeping this in mind, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University has initiated its natural and induced breeding at Kanyakumari-Parakkai Centre for sustainable aquaculture. The present article covers the preliminary studies carried out at this centre and the experiments have shown positive results for both natural and induced breeding which can be well explored for standardizing the breeding and seed protocol for Indian spiny loach.

Broodstock development, Captive breeding, Loach fish, Seed production NIL 2024-06-25 General Articles Velmurugan, P. and Somu Sundar Lingam, R.

Velmurugan, P.*

Directorate of Sustainable Aquaculture, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

Somu Sundar Lingam, R.

Directorate of Sustainable Aquaculture, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

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198 1724051606 Biotica Research Today Smart Breeding Revolutionizes Climate-Resilient Agriculture Agriculture 353-354

Climate change presents immense challenges to global agriculture, threatening food security through rising temperatures, erratic weather and evolving pests. Traditional agricultural practices are insufficient to address these issues, necessitating advanced plant breeding techniques. Unlocking genetic diversity, especially through wild germplasm, is critical for crop improvement. Advances in phenomics, sequencing and genome editing, alongside artificial intelligence, provide new avenues for developing climate-resilient crops. Plant breeding has historically revolutionized agriculture and continues to do so by enhancing crop varieties for higher production and resilience. Pre-breeding integrates desirable traits from wild relatives into modern cultivars, while marker-assisted selection and speed breeding accelerate genetic gains. Genome editing technologies like CRISPR/Cas9 enable precise modifications for improved stress tolerance. Integrating AI with phenomics enhances the efficiency of selecting better-performing breeding lines. Smart breeding approaches promise to address food security challenges, ensuring sustainable agriculture amidst climate change.

Climate change, CRISPR/Cas9, Marker-assisted selection, Pre-breeding NIL 2024-06-26 Popular Article Divya Chaudhary and Sivendra Joshi

Divya Chaudhary*

ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi (110 012), India

Sivendra Joshi

Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Research Center, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

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199 1724052943 Biotica Research Today Use of Biostimulants in Fruit Crop Enhancement Agriculture 359-364

Biostimulants have emerged as a vital component in modern agricultural practices, offering significant benefits for fruit crop production. These substances, whether of natural or synthetic origin, exert beneficial effects on plant growth by enhancing metabolic processes and improving stress tolerance, thereby augmenting both crop yield and quality. Moreover, they contribute positively to soil health, further bolstering their impact on agricultural productivity. Principal categories of biostimulants encompass humic substances, seaweed extracts, amino acids and protein hydrolysates, microbial inoculants and silicon-based products. Each category functions through a different mechanism, such as increasing the absorption of nutrients, promoting the growth of roots, controlling hormone levels and increasing the water-use efficiency. In order to ensure crop resilience, support sustainable agriculture and satisfy the increasing demand for premium fruit crops worldwide, biostimulants are well-positioned to play a significant role. This article examines how biostimulants can boost fruit crop yield while maintaining the safety and quality of the food supply.

Biostimulants, Humic substances, Stress tolerance, Sustainable agriculture https://doi.org/10.54083/BioResToday/6.6.2024/359-364 2024-06-30 Review Articles Nishchala, Aashima Sharma, Akriti Banyal, Shiv Kumar Shivandu and Ishani Sharma

Nishchala*

Dept. of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture & Forestry, Neri, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh (177 001), India

Aashima Sharma

Dept. of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture & Forestry, Neri, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh (177 001), India

Akriti Banyal

Dept. of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture & Forestry, Neri, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh (177 001), India

Shiv Kumar Shivandu

Dept. of Fruit Science, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Ishani Sharma

Dept. of Fruit Science, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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200 1724389871 Biotica Research Today Parasites of Mithun (Bos frontalis) Agriculture 369-371

Mithun (Bos frontalis) is a rare bovine species in the hilly regions of Northeast India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Bhutan and China, significantly contributing to indigenous communities' socio-economic and cultural lives. However, their health and productivity are compromised by various parasitic diseases. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the parasitic infections affecting Mithun, categorized into helminths, protozoa and arthropods. Helminth infections include trematodes (Fasciola spp.), nematodes (Haemonchus contortus, Trichostrongylus spp., Ostertagia spp.) and cestodes (Moniezia spp.). Protozoan infections are primarily caused by blood protozoa (Theileria orientalis) and tissue protozoa (Eimeria spp.). Arthropod parasites include ticks (Rhipicephalus spp., Haemaphysalis spp., Ixodes spp.) and various flies. Effective control and management strategies are crucial for mitigating these parasitic threats and enhancing the well-being and productivity of Mithun populations.

Arthropods, Helminths, Mithun, Protozoa NIL 2024-07-12 Popular Article Kilikali K. Yepthomi, Jayanta Kumar Chamuah, Plabita Goswami and Limasungla Imchen

Kilikali K. Yepthomi

ICAR-NRC on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Jayanta Kumar Chamuah*

ICAR-NRC on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Plabita Goswami

ICAR-NRC on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Limasungla Imchen

ICAR-NRC on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

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201 1724392105 Biotica Research Today Leveraging Biosensor Technology for Sustainable Vegetable Farming Practices Agriculture 376-378

Biosensor technology is revolutionizing vegetable farming by facilitating more sustainable approaches. These sophisticated tools merge biological components with physicochemical sensors to deliver accurate, real-time monitoring of key agricultural aspects like soil nutrient levels, pesticide residues and pathogen presence. Through the utilization of biosensors, farmers can make well-informed choices regarding irrigation, fertilization and pest management, thereby improving crop health and yield while reducing resource usage and environmental impact. This piece delves into the various uses of biosensors in vegetable cultivation, underscoring their significance in ensuring food safety and enhancing traceability. Despite obstacles such as integration and data handling, continuous progress is tackling these challenges, paving the way for wider acceptance. With the agricultural industry seeking more effective and sustainable practices, biosensors present a hopeful solution, transforming vegetable farming techniques and contributing to the global drive for sustainable agriculture.

Biological, Biosensor, Pest management, Vegetable NIL 2024-07-16 Popular Article Jasdeep Kaur, Nikhil Thakur, Shveta Thakur and Rishabh Kumar

Jasdeep Kaur

Dept. of Vegetable Science and Floriculture, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh (176 062), India

Nikhil Thakur*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Shveta Thakur

Dept. of Entomology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Rishabh Kumar

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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202 1724394161 Biotica Research Today Honeydew: A Sweet Treat Turning Toxic for Beneficial Insects in Agroecosystems Agriculture 379-382

Honeydew, a saccharide-dense exudate synthesized by hemipteran insects during phloem sap ingestion, serves as a crucial nutrient source for beneficial arthropods in agroecosystems. Recent studies indicate that systemic insecticide contamination of honeydew presents potential toxicological risks to non-target species, necessitating further investigation into trophic transfer mechanisms and ecological implications. Neonicotinoids and other systemic insecticides have been detected in honeydew at toxic levels for predators and parasitoids. Contamination can occur through direct spray contact, uptake by honeydew producers, or plant-mediated transfer. Lethal and sublethal effects on beneficial insects have been documented, potentially disrupting biological control and pollination services. These findings highlight the need to re-evaluate systemic insecticide use and develop strategies to mitigate risks to beneficial insects in agricultural systems. Consumers should also be aware that "perfect crops" often come with significant insecticide use.

Beneficial insects, Contamination, Honeydew, Systemic insecticides NIL 2024-07-18 Popular Article Shashank D.U., Sujith K.M., Hareesh Shiralli and Sandeep K.

Shashank D.U.*

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Sujith K.M.

Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga, Karnataka (577 412), India

Hareesh Shiralli

Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Science, Dharwad, Karnataka (500 008), India

Sandeep K.

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

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203 1724394800 Biotica Research Today The Mechanistic Insights into Silicon-Enhanced Disease Resistance in Plants Agriculture 401-402

Silicon, though not essential, is abundant in Earth's crust and boosts plant resistance to fungal pathogens. Plants absorb Si as monosilicic acid (H4SiO4) through both passive and active transport, involving specific transport proteins. Si accumulates in leaves as insoluble SiO2 deposits, creating physical barriers against fungal invasion. Additionally, Si triggers biochemical and molecular defenses, increasing production of defense enzymes and secondary metabolites that enhance plant immunity. This article explores the mechanisms through which Si enhances disease resistance, including improving nutrient uptake, modulating antioxidant defenses and activating local and systemic acquired resistance. It also highlights gaps in the current understanding of Si-mediated defense, calling for more research to uncover the complex interactions between Si and plant biochemical pathways.

Host-pathogen interaction, Plant disease resistance, Silicon transporters, SiO2 deposits NIL 2024-08-05 Popular Article Sreenath Ragiman and Hariharan Selvam

Sreenath Ragiman*

Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-IARI Mega University Nagpur Hub, Maharashtra (441 108), India

Hariharan Selvam

Division of Entomology, ICAR-IARI Mega University Hyderabad Hub, Telangana (500 030), India

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204 1724395069 Biotica Research Today Role of Gut Health in Overall Health and Immunity Agriculture 383-385

Gut plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and influencing various physiological processes beyond digestion through activation of gut-organ axes. Gut health is intertwined with the immune system, with gut flora acting as a key player in immune function of the host. A balanced gut flora contributes to proper nutrient absorption, supports mental well-being and even affects weight management. Imbalances in gut bacteria, often caused by diet, stress, or antibiotics, can lead to digestive disorders and impact overall health negatively. Prioritizing gut health through a diverse, fiber-rich diet, probiotics and stress management is essential for achieving optimal gut health and ultimately, better overall health and wellbeing.

Gut flora, Gut health, Gut-organ axes, Overall health NIL 2024-07-20 Popular Article Mayur M. Jadav, Vivek Joshi, Deepsikha, U. Dimri and D.B. Mondal

Mayur M. Jadav

Division of Medicine, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (243 122), India

Vivek Joshi*

Division of Medicine, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (243 122), India

Deepsikha

Division of Medicine, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (243 122), India

U. Dimri

Division of Medicine, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (243 122), India

D.B. Mondal

Division of Medicine, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (243 122), India

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205 1725097839 Biotica Research Today Growing Smarter: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture Agriculture 406-409

To meet ever-growing population demands, there are various revolutions in the agricultural sector to increase quality and quantity of yield with minimum damage to the ecosystem. Now-a-days, there is the 4th wave of revolution regarding precision farming with technological advancement (Agri 4.0) for improvement in quality and yield. The new revolution in agriculture involves the application of the Internet of Things (IoT), DL, ML, Artificial Neural Network, Satellite Imagery, i.e., Artificial Intelligence (AI) in a nutshell, to maintain the field and soil well-being to improve the profitability, safety, efficiency of farming practices and supply chain. The application of AI comprises drones, sensors, robots, satellite images, cameras, GPS technology and data analytic software to detect and to predict weather conditions and helps to make productive decisions. AI has many applications such as weather forecasting, soil and crop monitoring, irrigation scheduling, pest detection, yield prediction, market analysis and so on.

Agri 4.0, Artificial intelligence, Drones, Precision agriculture NIL 2024-08-10 Popular Article Data Ram Saini, Pravin Prakash, Sudhir Kumar, Ipsita Maiti and Krishna Kumar

Data Ram Saini

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Pravin Prakash

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Sudhir Kumar

Division of Plant Physiology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Ipsita Maiti*

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Krishna Kumar

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

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206 1725881912 Plant Health Archives Influence of Chemical-Induced Liberation of Pebrine Spores in Tasar Silkworm Mother Moth Examination Sericulture 139-144

Tasar silkworm suffers from various diseases especially Pebrine, Virosis, Bacteriosis and muscardine. Approximately 30-35% of crop losses can be attributed to Pebrine disease, with sporadic instances leading to complete crop failure. The primarily infection of Pebrine is by vertical transmission with the pathogen transferring the infection directly from parent to offspring. To ensure the perpetuation of Pebrine-free generations of silkworms, disease-free layings are produced through the examination of the mother moth. It is necessary to improve the visibility of spores by complete liberation, staining, cleaning of spores and dissolution/removal of fat bodies, debris of body tissues, etc. Certain chemicals are selected and tested the results revealed that, Sarcosyl, Formalin and Ethanol treated samples field was very clear and no debris was observed. Sarcosyl and Ethanol treated samples have shown 212,000 and 54,000 more number of pebrine spores cm-3 liberated when compared with K2CO3 (control) at 0.5% chemical concentration. Sarcosyl treated samples has shown 122,000 more number of pebrine spores cm-3 liberated when compared with K2CO3 (control) at 1% chemical concentration. Citric acid (300,000), Ethanol (100,000) and Sarcosyl (500,000) obtained more number of liberated pebrine spores cm-3 when compared with K2CO3 (control) at 2% chemical concentration. Sarcosyl (160,000), Ethanol (70,000) and Formalin (100,000) chemical treated samples obtained more number of liberated pebrine spores cm-3 when compared with K2CO3 (control) at 5% concentration. Sarcosyl, Formalin, Ethanol and Citric acid chemicals have shown better performance when compared with other tested chemicals and K2CO3 (control). Sarcosyl stands first position followed by Ethanol, Formalin and Citric acid chemicals in more number of liberation of pebrine spores cm-3.

Antheraea mylitta D., Pebrine, Mother moth examination, Sarcosyl https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/1.3.2023/139-144 2023-12-29 Research Articles K. Nandhini, Y. Praveen Reddy, U. Anil Kumar and M. Parasuramudu

K. Nandhini*

Dept. of Sericulture, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 003), India

Y. Praveen Reddy

Dept. of Sericulture, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 003), India

U. Anil Kumar

Dept. of Sericulture, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 003), India

M. Parasuramudu

Dept. of Sericulture, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 003), India

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207 1725957522 Research Biotica October-December (2021) Optimizing Silkworm Rearing: The Impact of Environmental Factors and Advanced Technologies on Silk Quality and Production Sericulture 195-202

Environmental factors and rearing technologies are pivotal in determining the physiological health and cocoon quality of silkworms (Bombyx mori). This comprehensive study delves into the intricate relationship between environmental variables such as temperature, humidity, air quality and light exposure and their collective impact on silkworm metabolism, growth and cocoon production. The research highlights the optimal conditions required for various stages of silkworm development and examines how modern rearing technologies can be leveraged to enhance silk yield and quality. Additionally, the study explores the role of nutrition, particularly the quality of mulberry leaves, in influencing cocoon morphology and silk filament strength. Case studies from different sericulture regions provide practical insights into the application of these findings. The results underscore the necessity of integrating advanced technological interventions with traditional sericulture practices to achieve sustainable and high-quality silk production. This paper offers valuable guidance for researchers, sericulturists and policymakers aiming to optimize environmental conditions and rearing techniques for improved silkworm productivity and silk quality.

Cocoon morphology, Environmental factors, Rearing technologies, Sericin curing, Silk quality, Silkworm rearing https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/3.4.2021/195-202 2021-12-25 Review Articles U. Anil Kumar, M. Parasuramudu, K. Nandhini and Y. Praveen Reddy

U. Anil Kumar*

Dept. of Sericulture, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 003), India

M. Parasuramudu

Dept. of Sericulture, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 003), India

K. Nandhini

Dept. of Sericulture, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 003), India

Y. Praveen Reddy

Dept. of Sericulture, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 003), India

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208 1726202109 Biotica Research Today August (2023) Ecosystem Services by Agroforestry Agriculture 550-552

Although agroforestry offers several ecosystem services; however, limited literature resources are available towards proving all these benefits. The following article looks into the diversified contribution of agroforestry towards different attributes, viz.: (1) increasing soil fertility, (2) controlling soil erosion, (3) conserving biodiversity and (4) carbon sequestration. Various research conducted recently postulate the dynamic potential of agroforestry in a changing scenario of climate and land use patterns. It is a novel and evolving technology and provides an alternative to sustainable land resource management. Though poverty alleviation, ecosystem benefits and environment modulation are some of the key services recognized till now, it is a matter of fact that the contribution of agroforestry is dynamic, huge and ever-evolving.

Agroforestry, Biodiversity conservation, Carbon sequestration, Ecosystem services NIL 2023-08-01 Popular Article Govind Bose, Subhaprada Behera and Virag Chaudhari

Govind Bose*

Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat (396 450), India

Subhaprada Behera

Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat (396 450), India

Virag Chaudhari

Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat (396 450), India

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209 1726208441 Research Biotica October-December (2019) Phytoremeditation: A Potential Tool for Waste Water Recycling Agriculture 05-08

Plants can be used in the cleanup and prevention of environmental pollution. This relatively new and green technology that uses natural processes to break down, stabilize, or accumulate pollutants. Phytoremediation-related processes might amend the situation or chemical makeup of contaminants. Multidisciplinary studies will help to develop a better understanding of the ecological interactions that contribute to phytoremediation, the effects of phytoremediation on ecological relationships, and the movement of pollutants through ecosystems. Phytoremediation, requires careful choice of plant species and management practices are key to promoting ecological restoration and preventing pollutant dispersal. Native/local plant species with effective remediation properties should be used that provide natural hydraulic control and soil stabilization should be selected.

Environmental pollution, Phytoremediation, Waste water, Water recycling https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio.1.1.2019.05-08 2019-12-14 Review Articles Pooja Thathola, Dinesh Chandola, Vasudha Agnihotri and Sumit Rai

Pooja Thathola

Centre for Land & Water Resourse Management, G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment & Sustainable Development, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora (263 643), India

Dinesh Chandola

Centre for Land & Water Resourse Management, G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment & Sustainable Development, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora (263 643), India

Vasudha Agnihotri

Centre for Land & Water Resourse Management, G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment & Sustainable Development, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora (263 643), India

Sumit Rai*

Centre for Environmental Assessment & Climate Change, G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment & Sustainable Development, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora (263 643), India

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210 1726207891 Biotica Research Today August (2023) Molsari: A Panacea Drug for Conventional Therapy Agriculture 566-570

Molsari is a one of the most ancient medicinal plant known to mankind. It is an evergreen, medium-long size tree known by various vernacular names. It is an Indian origin plant and is mainly grown in Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Andaman Island. The plant contains various glycosides, steroids and chemical compounds which are used extensively in pharmaceutical industry and traditional therapy. Molsari is also a significant ingredient for several traditional Unani and Homeopathic medicines. The fruits of molsari are somewhat resemble like date palm with incredible remedial value and can eaten as a ripe raw fruit. As the human lifestyle is changing and demand for medicines increasing, therefore with increasing demand there is immense scope for future research in its medicinal properties in traditional or Ayurvedic medicine systems as well as allopathy, owing to its excellent medicinal worth.

Ayurvedic, Conventional therapy, Medicinal value, Molsari NIL 2023-08-07 Popular Article Maneesh Kumar, V.P. Singh, Jaspreet Kaur, Sajeel Ahamad and Mandeep Rawat

Maneesh Kumar*

Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

V.P. Singh

Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

Jaspreet Kaur

Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

Sajeel Ahamad

Division of Food Science & Post-harvest Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Mandeep Rawat

Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

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211 1726209446 Biotica Research Today August (2023) Impacts and Management Strategies of Parthenium hysterophorus L. in Agriculture Agriculture 574-576

Parthenium hysterophorus may have migrated to India in 1910 on germplasm from diseased cereals, but it wasn't discovered until 1956. Since its discovery in 1955, weed has spread to about 42 million acres of land. The individual weed can yield 10,000 to 15,000 viable seeds due to its extraordinary fecundity. Four weeks after germination, plants are ready to blossom and produce seeds. This important global weed is also a significant risk to biodiversity and causes crucial health problems for humans and animals, including dermatitis, asthma and bronchitis. Chemical control must be managed appropriately. When plants are young and haven't set seed, weed should be pulled. However, merely limiting its expansion is not enough to get rid of it; instead, it can be managed through utilizing it for different purpose.

Allelopathy, Biodiversity loss, Health hazards, Herbicide management NIL 2023-08-09 Popular Article R. Sathya Priya, N. Jagathjothi, M. Kathiravan, M. Yuvaraj and Jaiby Cyriac

R. Sathya Priya*

Dept. of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

N. Jagathjothi

Dept. of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Kathiravan

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Yuvaraj

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

Jaiby Cyriac

Dept. of Botany, Newman College, Thodupuzha, Kerala (685 585), India

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212 1726211463 Biotica Research Today August (2023) Genetics, Genomics and Breeding of Onion (Allium cepa L.) and Other Allium Species Agriculture 577-580

Allium crops, which encompass a diverse group of plants such as onions, garlic and leeks, play a crucial role in global agriculture and culinary practices. Despite their significance, the progress in systematic and targeted research within these crops has been hampered by numerous constraints, including their biennial nature, high cross-compatibility, Sexual reproduction is limited, there is obligate apomixis, the genome is big, and heterozygozity is significant. These challenges have limited the scope of traditional breeding techniques in generating genetic diversity necessary for developing improved and adaptable cultivars, especially under the backdrop of a changing climatic scenario. Through this approach, breeders can introduce beneficial genetic changes that confer tolerance to a range of biotic and abiotic stresses, enhancing the resilience of Allium cultivars against adverse environmental conditions but also meet the demands of an ever-evolving agricultural landscape.

Allium cepa, Genomics, Molecular breeding, Molecular markers NIL 2023-08-10 Popular Article Shahaji R. Hange, Shalaka R. Sinhasane, Ankush S. Gadge, Ankita V. Chinche and Pushpalatha M.

Shahaji R. Hange*

Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Vasantdada Sugar Institute, Manjari (Budruk), Pune, Maharashtra (412 307), India

Shalaka R. Sinhasane

Division of Horticulture, ICAR-Directorate of Onion and Garlic Research, Rajgurunagar, Pune, Maharashtra (410 505), India

Ankush S. Gadge

Forest College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Mettupalayam, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

Ankita V. Chinche

Dept. of Agril. Botany, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra (444 104), India

Pushpalatha M.

Dept. of Entomology, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Maharashtra (413 722), India

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213 1726212478 Biotica Research Today August (2023) Frugivorous Bats: An Overview and Its Management Agriculture 581-583

There are 12 species of fruit bats in India, although just three, the Indian flying fox (Pteropus giganteus), the short-nosed fruit bat (Cynopterus sphinx) and the fulvous fruit bat (Rousettus leschenaultia are found virtually everywhere). Grapes, guava, mango, sapota, custard apple and arecanuts are all vulnerable to attack by fruit-eating bats. Use of scare devices, banging drums, light torches, playing recorded warning calls, using repellents and installing nylon nets are all techniques proposed for managing fruit-eating bats. However, when compared to the destruction caused by other vertebrates like birds, squirrels, monkeys and mongooses, the harm done by bats is seasonal and relatively minor. In addition, only fully ripe fruits that have passed the harvest stage are eaten; therefore there is no impact on the commercial crop. In the short run, netting and scaring them away could be highly beneficial. The potential benefits and drawbacks of planting trap trees should be considered.

Biology, Fruit bats, Management, Nature of damage NIL 2023-08-11 Popular Article Hemadri, T. and Sushila Nadagouda

Hemadri, T.*

Pesticide Residue and Food Quality Analysis Laboratory, UAS, Raichur, Karnataka (584 104), India

Sushila Nadagouda

Dept. of Entomology, UAS, Raichur, Karnataka (584 104), India

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214 1726243498 Biotica Research Today August (2023) Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) for Transforming Fish Processing Wastewater into Valuable Resources Agriculture 625-627

Water is absolutely necessary for all living things to survive. The fish processing industry generates large volumes of wastewater containing organic solids, disease-causing agents, phosphates and nitrates, posing environmental pollution and biohazard risks to both populations and ecosystems. Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology has emerged as an innovative and effective solution for treating fish processing wastewater, mitigating its environmental impact. The high-quality effluent produced by MBRs, which combines biological treatment and membrane filtration, is ideal for reuse applications. The reuse of the MBR-treated effluent for industrial processes, irrigation, or direct discharge into delicate ecosystems can all be done safely while encouraging the protection of water resources.

Fish processing, Membrane bioreactor, Sustainability, Wastewater treatment NIL 2023-08-20 Popular Article Ritika A. Tandel, Jayesh R. Mer, Jitesh B. Solanki and Vivek R. Tandel

Ritika A. Tandel*

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

Jayesh R. Mer

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

Jitesh B. Solanki

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

Vivek R. Tandel

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

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215 1726244036 Biotica Research Today August (2023) Mechanization in Direct Seeded Rice Practices: Advancing Sustainability and Efficiency in Rice Farming Agriculture 628-630

Rice is an important crop as the world’s population mainly relies on it. Rice is generally grown by direct seeding or transplanting. Transplanting is advantageous for weed control but requires more time, flooded land condition, consumes more energy and labour. On the other hand, in direct seeded rice seeding is directly done on the main field eliminating all disadvantages of transplanting. The direct seeding (DS) can be dry direct seeding (DDS)/ wet direct seeding (WDS). WDS is carried in levelled, puddled field condition where pre-germinated seeds are used. Drum seeder is used for this purpose. DDS is done by broadcasting seeds after tillage or strip tillage combined with seeding or directly seeding without tillage. In situ incorporation of plant residue, straw mulching, reduction in soil erosion, increase in water infiltration and retention are important aspects of dry direct seeding.

Direct seeding, Lucky seeder, Mechanization, Rice NIL 2023-08-21 Popular Article Mattaparthi Lakshmi Durga and Jyotirmay Mahapatra

Mattaparthi Lakshmi Durga*

ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (462 038), India

Jyotirmay Mahapatra

ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (462 038), India

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216 1726244434 Biotica Research Today August (2023) Feathers to Survival: Unravelling the Effects of Oil Spill on Aquatic Birds Agriculture 631-633

Ocean oil spills present serious environmental, economic and ecological issues on a global scale. The main causes of oil contamination in oceans are human activities including offshore drilling, shipping and industrial emissions. Unintentional releases of crude oil or refined petroleum products destroy marine species, their habitats and coastal ecosystems, which results in immediate and long-lasting implications on biodiversity, water quality and human health. Oil spills have profound and wide-ranging effects on aquatic birds, including physical contamination and their habitats. Understanding and mitigating the effects of oil spills on aquatic birds are crucial for their conservation and the preservation of affected ecosystems. There are several methods mentioned by researchers for cleaning up oil spills in the ocean. Enhanced research and response tactics are vital to mitigate harm and support the revival of oil-affected avian populations.

Aquatic birds, Ecological impact, Oil spill, Physical contamination NIL 2023-08-22 Popular Article Vivek R. Tandel and D.T. Vaghela

Vivek R. Tandel*

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, College of Fisheries Science, Veraval, Kamdhenu University, Gujarat (362 265), India

D.T. Vaghela

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, College of Fisheries Science, Veraval, Kamdhenu University, Gujarat (362 265), India

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217 1726244856 Biotica Research Today August (2023) Climate Change Impacts on Fish Distribution and Abundance, Migration Patterns, Fish Physiology and Disease Prevalence Agriculture 634-636

Climate change's direct and indirect effects on fisheries are not widely recognised. Understanding the effects of changing temperature, precipitation and CO2 on fish growth and development is essential because human food and feed are also supplied from the fisheries sector. As part of the climate complex, solar radiation and ozone levels are shifting, affecting fish growth and development. Studying how fish grow and develop in response to climate may assist to ensure that the fishing sector is able to satisfy human demands as the population expands. Climate change affects fisheries and aquaculture communities and livelihoods, thus attempts to adapt or minimise it must be human-centered.

Aquaculture, Climate change, Fish growth, Fish physiology NIL 2023-08-24 Popular Article N. Karthik and Gowtham Pandiya Rajan R.

N. Karthik*

Faculty of Fisheries, SKUAST-Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir (190 025), India

Gowtham Pandiya Rajan R.

College of Fisheries (OUAT), Rangailunda, Berhampur, Odisha (760 007), India

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218 1726245376 Biotica Research Today August (2023) Classical Swine Fever: A Disease of Global Concern Agriculture 637-639

Classical swine fever (CSF) historically popular as hog cholera, is an extremely contagious porcine viral disease caused by an enveloped RNA virus of Pestivirus genus is related to bovine virus diarrhea (BVD) and border disease virus (BDV). The disease is credited as one of the most significant transboundary viral diseases of porcine species worldwide. Owing to its astounding impact on swine health, CSF is notifiable to the World Organization for Animal Health. Prevention and control strategies involve effective vaccination, quarantine and culling of affected animals with a scrupulous maintenance of biosecurity and zoosanitary measures in the farm premises. The present brief compilation intends to provide a nutshell overview on CSF, its causative agent, transmission, pathogenesis, symptomatology, lesions, diagnosis and prevention as an endeavor and aim towards awareness of the pig farmers and the readers having interest in pig diseases.

Acute, CSF, Hemorrhage, Pestivirus NIL 2023-08-26 Popular Article Manoranjan Rout and Jajati Keshari Mohapatra

Manoranjan Rout*

ICAR-National Institute on Foot and Mouth Disease, International Centre for Foot and Mouth Disease, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 050), India

Jajati Keshari Mohapatra

ICAR-National Institute on Foot and Mouth Disease, International Centre for Foot and Mouth Disease, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 050), India

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219 1726245728 Biotica Research Today August (2023) Neo-Extensionists: Catalysts for Progress in Modern Farming Agriculture 640-643

This abstract explores the transformative impact of neo-extensionism on modern agriculture in contemporary situation. Departing from traditional top-down approaches, neo-extensionists engage farmers in participatory learning, co-creating tailored solutions that integrate local wisdom with scientific innovations. This collaborative approach enhances technology adoption, fosters sustainable practices, empowers farmers and builds resilient agricultural systems. Challenges such as resource constraints and the need for ongoing training exist, but the potential for digital tools and platforms offers promising avenues for further growth. The evolving role of neo-extensionists signifies a fundamental shift towards farmer-centered, knowledge-intensive and ecologically mindful farming practices, with implications for global food systems.

Collaborative approach, Neo-extensionism, Participatory learning, Tailored solutions NIL 2023-08-26 Popular Article Arnab Banerjee

Arnab Banerjee*

Dept. of Agricultural Extension, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

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220 1726282876 Biotica Research Today Phenomics: Potential Applications in Fisheries Fisheries Science 814-816

Phenomics is the study of phenome, which deals with the collection and analysis of phenotypic data. Phenotyping, being an integral part of phenomics, has been mostly studied in the case of plants and higher vertebrates, with limited studies on fish. Limitations in phenotyping make it more difficult to understand how genetics contributes to the transmission of quantitative traits. To enable the explicit and methodical investigation of the pleiotropic consequences of genetic variation, phenomics data is necessary. Fish phenotyping is still in its infancy and is confined to truss and classic morphometric investigations. This has sparked interest in creating high-throughput phenotyping techniques to evaluate the immense phenotypic plasticity of fish by integrating their genetic and phenotypic data.

Fish phenomics, Fisheries, High-throughput data, Information technology NIL 2023-12-07 Popular Article V.L. Ramya, Jesna P.K. and B.K. Das

V.L. Ramya

Regional Centre of ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 089), India

Jesna P.K.*

Regional Centre of ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 089), India

B.K. Das

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

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221 1726283736 Biotica Research Today Integration of Fish with Poultry Farming for Increasing Production, Maximization of Profit and Resource Conservation Agriculture 817-819

Integrated Fish cum Poultry Farming emerges as a sustainable and synergistic agricultural approach, blending over 1500 years of Asian history with modern practices. Rooted in the concept of waste as a misplaced resource, this integrated farming system optimizes the relationship between diverse agricultural activities, enhancing the efficiency of marginal and small farmers. The integration of poultry and fish farming, where poultry droppings become feed materials for fish, have a mutually beneficial mechanism. This method not only saves on fertilizer and supplementary feed costs but also addresses waste management through the effective recycling of by-products. The system contributes to rural development by generating income, empowering women and ensuring livelihood security. Housing structures, bird selection, feeding practices and health care measures are intricately woven into this model, fostering efficient resource utilization. This integrated model stands as a promising solution for resource-poor rural communities, combining nutritional security with sustainable livelihood.

Farmer, Integrated Fish cum Poultry Farming, Rural Development, Sustainable NIL 2023-12-10 Popular Article Jahnabi Jyoti Kalita and Debasish Borah

Jahnabi Jyoti Kalita*

Advanced Centre for Integrated Farming Systems Research, AICRP on IFS, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

Debasish Borah

Advanced Centre for Integrated Farming Systems Research, AICRP on IFS, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

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222 1726291438 Biotica Research Today Evaluation of Influenced Antiviral Medicinal Plant Extracts for the Control of Grasserie Disease and Estimation of Biochemical and Hematological Changes in Silkworm, Bombyx mori L. Agriculture 844-849

The current study evaluates the efficacy of three medicinal plant extracts, viz., Aloe vera, Phyllanthus niruri and Andrographis paniculata, in mitigating Grasserie disease in Bombyx mori L., a disease caused by the Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV). Among the tested treatments, Aloe vera exhibited the most significant positive effects on cocoon parameters. The highest cocoon weight of 1.85 g was recorded in the treatment group T1 (Aloe vera + BmNPV), followed by the control group T5 (distilled water) with 1.81 g and T2 (Phyllanthus niruri + BmNPV) with 1.75 g. The lowest cocoon weight of 1.25 g was observed in T4 (BmNPV at 1×105 POB ml-1). Similar trends were observed for shell weight and shell ratio, where T1 ranked highest, followed by T5 and T2, with T4 showing the lowest values. Disease incidence in the FC1×FC2 bivoltine silkworm double hybrid was significantly reduced following the administration of medicinal plant extracts compared to the control. Specifically, total hemocyte count (THC) in T1 increased significantly from 3205 ml-1 to 5924 ml-1 from day 1 to day 5 post-treatment, then decreased to 4256 ml-1 by day 6, which approximated the control (T5). Protein levels followed a similar pattern, with T1 recording the highest value of 92.6 mg ml-1 on day 6, compared to 91.3 mg ml-1 in the control. T4 exhibited the lowest protein concentration at 12.3 mg ml-1. Overall, Aloe vera demonstrated superior antiviral activity against Grasserie disease compared to Phyllanthus niruri and Andrographis paniculata. The findings suggest that Aloe vera may be effectively incorporated into bed disinfectants as a preventive measure against viral diseases in silkworm rearing.

Aloe vera, Bombyx mori L., Grassrie, Medicinal plant extracts, Pathogen inoculation, Silkworm https://doi.org/10.54083/BioResToday/5.12.2023/844-849 2023-12-31 Research Articles Y. Praveen Reddy, U. Anil Kumar, M. Parasuramudu and K. Nandhini

Y. Praveen Reddy*

Dept. of Sericulture, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 003), India

U. Anil Kumar

Dept. of Sericulture, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 003), India

M. Parasuramudu

Dept. of Sericulture, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 003), India

K. Nandhini

Dept. of Sericulture, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh (515 003), India

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223 1726292097 Biotica Research Today The Negative Impact of Desalination Brine on Marine Flora and Fauna Agriculture 644-646

At a time when the world's water supply is becoming increasingly scarce, saltwater is being considered an infinite source for freshwater through the desalination process of seawater. To increase the effectiveness of saltwater desalination, hybridized systems and thermal and membrane-based techniques are being deployed. Due to its increased salinity, temperature and chemical content, brine, a byproduct of seawater desalination that is invariably thrown into oceans and seas, negatively affects the local marine ecology and biodiversity. Additionally, a number of factors, such as input quantity and quality, the process of desalination and discharge technique, have an influence on the quality and amount of brine. Several factors determine how strongly salt affects marine biota, yet different marine species have different tolerance levels for the impacts of brine.

Brine, Fauna, Flora, Sea Grass NIL 2023-09-02 Popular Article Bhagchand Chhaba, Ediga Arun Goud, Vikram Kachave, V.S. Aitwar and Neha D. Gangan

Bhagchand Chhaba*

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Dr.BSKKV, Dapoli, College of Fisheries, Shirgaon, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra (415 629), India

Ediga Arun Goud

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr.BSKKV, Dapoli, College of Fisheries, Shirgaon, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra (415 629), India

Vikram Kachave

Dept. of Fish Physiology and Biochemistry, ICAR-CIFE, Andheri (W), Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

V.S. Aitwar

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, KVAFSU, Bidar, College of Fisheries, Mangaluru, Karnataka (575 002), India

Neha D. Gangan

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Dr.BSKKV, Dapoli, College of Fisheries, Shirgaon, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra (415 629), India

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224 1726294515 Biotica Research Today Microplastics and Its Impact on Fish Gut and Its Microbiota Agriculture 647-648

Microplastics, which are small fragments of plastic with a diameter of fewer than 5 mm, are now prevalent contaminants in aquatic environments all over the world. Their pervasive presence in aquatic habitats has raised concerns regarding their possible effects on aquatic animals, especially fish, which are essential to ecosystem dynamics and human food chains. Fish may consume these particles directly or by consumption of contaminated prey. Microplastics might pile up in fish's digestive system after ingestion, where they may cause damage to muscles, blockages and alterations in digestion. In addition, the chemical structure of microplastics, which includes additives and contaminants that have been absorbed, may present toxicological concerns to fish health. This paper aims to summarize the knowledge regarding microplastic and its impact on fish health and its microbiota.

Ecosystem, Fish health, Microbiota, Microplastic NIL 2023-09-04 Popular Article Pragati Kumari

Pragati Kumari*

Dept. of Fisheries Science, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi, Kerala (682 506), India

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225 1726298536 Biotica Research Today Red Seaweed (Gracilaria corticata): Nutritional Properties and Its Importance Agriculture 653-654

Seaweeds or marine macroalgae are known food crop as they are rich source of health-promoting compounds. Seaweeds have been used since ancient time, but now-a-days seaweeds are also being used as raw material source for various industrial productions such as, carrageenan, algin and agar. Edible seaweeds are highly nutritious as they provide us with sources of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Red seaweed Gracilaria corticata is also one such seaweed species. Several red seaweed species are found near the coast of India, with Gracilaria corticata being one of the predominant. These seaweeds are valuable as both fresh and dried form. The species is found in abundance and can help in maintaining health status of people due to its nutritive and therapeutical properties. Further value addition of this species can be easily done as it has been used as for human consumption in many countries.

Gracilaria corticata, Nutrition, Seaweed, Value addition NIL 2023-09-08 Popular Article Nidhi Dhansukhbhai Patel

Nidhi Dhansukhbhai Patel*

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

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226 1726300661 Biotica Research Today Significance of Trace Elements in Crop Production Agriculture 661-663

Trace elements are those elements which are very important to plant growth but are only required in very less amounts. Trace elements are nutrients which are important for a proper functioning of plants. Various nutrients are used to deliver trace elements to the plants i.e., Boron (B), Molybdenum (Mo), Manganese (Mn), Zinc (Zn.), Copper (Cu) and Iron (Fe). For plants to grow continuously and healthily, this mixture of trace elements and major components is crucial. Trace elements serve a variety of purposes for plants, including helping the creation of chlorophyll granules, forming enzymes, enhancing photosynthesis in plants, improving metabolic processes and being engaged in cell elongation and membrane stiffness.

Cell membrane, Enzymes, Photosynthesis, Trace elements NIL 2023-09-14 Popular Article Shraddha Singh, Saurabh Singh, Ajay Singh, Alok Kumar Singh and Akash Singh

Shraddha Singh*

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Saurabh Singh

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Ajay Singh

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Bundelkand University, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh (284 128), India

Alok Kumar Singh

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Akash Singh

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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227 1726301460 Biotica Research Today Crop Residue Management: A Burning Issue and the Way Out Agriculture 664-666

Burning of crop residues has become a significant environmental issue that endangers human health and contributes to global warming. An estimated 140 billion metric tonnes is being burnt in India every year leading to excessive air pollution because our country lacks adequate sustainable management techniques. There are many factors which contribute to burning: as a way to clear fields for the next crop, lack of alternative methods, increasing population density in the northern states of India which has led to more residues being burned. The Indian government has taken some steps to address this problem, such as banning crop residue burning in some areas, utilizing crop waste to generate electricity and providing incentives to farmers who use alternative methods of disposal in order to solve this problem. Crop residues contain significant amount of nutrients in their dry matter. Therefore, it is necessary to implement more strategies and tools to manage this priceless resource.

Burning, Crop residues, Environmental quality, Sustainable management NIL 2023-09-15 Popular Article Govindannagari Rajitha, M. Yakadri and M. Sai Suvidh

Govindannagari Rajitha*

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Horticulture, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

M. Yakadri

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

M. Sai Suvidh

Dept. of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture, Nashville, Tennessee State University, Tennessee (37209), USA

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228 1726305885 Biotica Research Today A New Invader in the Western Ghats! The Polka Dot Plant Agriculture 667-669

A long-lived herb of Madagascar, Hypoestes phyllostachya Baker has been observed to exhibit bio-invasive activity in the highlands of Kerala state, India. First reported in Manipur, India as an invasive plant, this perennial herb has now invaded several rural areas adjacent to many protected areas in Kerala part of Western Ghats. Field observations indicate that thickets of Hypoestes smother and kill native plants. Plant nurseries in central Kerala are currently marketing H. phyllstachya as a garden plant. Failure to take early actions to effectively control Hypoestes will help it to quickly establish itself as another plant of high nuisance value.

Biological invasion, Hypoestes phyllostachya, Invasive, Western Ghats NIL 2023-09-16 Popular Article Vishnu Chandran M. and Gopakumar, S.

Vishnu Chandran M.*

Dept. of Forest Resource Management, College of Forestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India

Gopakumar, S.

Dept. of Forest Resource Management, College of Forestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India

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229 1726307616 Innovative Farming Estimation of Carbon Footprint in Direct Seeded Rice (Oryza sativa) under Rainfed Medium Land Situation Agriculture 01-06

An experiment was carried out for two successive years, 2018 and 2019 during the kharif season on direct seeded rice in the experimental farm of the Central Agricultural University, Imphal. The research site was located under the eastern Himalayan region (II). The research was carried out to investigate into the carbon footprint of direct seeded rice under rainfed medium land situation. The study was based on factorial randomized block design (FRBD) comprising of two aspects, sowing techniques and seed rate. Broadcasting and line sowing were the levels under sowing techniques and seed rate has five levels including 80 kg ha-1, 90 kg ha-1, 100 kg ha-1, 110 kg ha-1 and 120 kg ha-1, respectively. The overall estimated greenhouse gas emission in line sowing method (11.02% was at par with broadcasting method (11.06%) with 120 kg ha-1 of seed rate followed in both the methods. Line sowing with 100 kg ha-1 led to the maximum carbon emissions. Further, line sowing with 80 kg ha-1 was superior in terms of parameters like carbon sustainability index, carbon efficiency and carbon efficiency ratio.

Carbon footprint, Direct seeded rice, Greenhouse gas, Seed rate, Sowing techniques https://doi.org/10.54083/IF/9.1.2024/01-06 2024-01-15 Research Articles Susmita Das and Hirak Banerjee

Susmita Das*

Dept. of Agronomy, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (795 004), India

Hirak Banerjee

Dept. of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

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230 1726306925 Biotica Research Today Purple Revolution: To Enhance Opportunities for Lavender Growers in Jammu and Kashmir Valleys Agriculture 670-673

Lavender, a native aromatic plant and a vital supplier of essential oils, has witnessed increased cultivation in the Jammu and Kashmir region. This surge can be attributed to the Aroma Mission initiated by the Ministry of Science & Technology, aimed at enhancing the agro-economy by promoting aromatic crops. The mission has substantially benefited farmers by doubling their income and facilitating large-scale lavender cultivation. This is particularly significant due to lavender's potential in providing medicinal properties that are incorporated into various processed products, such as perfumes, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Notably, the oil content in lavender varies among different species, resulting in a surge of interest and rapid expansion in industrial lavender cultivation over the past decade. This article explores the primary challenges and advancements in lavender cultivation.

Aroma mission, Cultivation practices, Lavender crop, Purple revolution NIL 2023-09-18 Popular Article Menaka M., Chandana M.R., Sindhu P.M., Sajeel Ahamad and Abeer Ali

Menaka M.

Division of FS&PHT, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

Chandana M.R.*

Division of FHT, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

Sindhu P.M.

Division of FS&PHT, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

Sajeel Ahamad

Division of FS&PHT, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

Abeer Ali

Division of FHT, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

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231 1726322248 Biotica Research Today Integrated Horticulture cum Fish Farming Agriculture 674-676

In India, approximately 80% of the population consists of marginal and small-scale farmers who face economic challenges and often work under difficult conditions to support their families. To enhance their productivity, income and overall well-being, there is a pressing need for integrated agricultural systems that incorporate both fish farming and horticulture. The dwindling land ownership per capita poses a significant threat to the sustainability and profitability of farming. Integrated horti-aquaculture farming offers a promising solution by not only increasing yields but also improving resource management. One particularly effective strategy is the integration of pond management with fish horticulture, which not only ensures sustained production but also creates income-generating opportunities and employment prospects for rural communities with limited resources.

Fish farming, Horticulture, Integrated farming, Opportunities NIL 2023-09-19 Popular Article Siddalingappa Veerapur and N. Karthik

Siddalingappa Veerapur*

Faculty of Horticulture, SKUAST-Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir (190 025), India

N. Karthik

Faculty of Fisheries, SKUAST-Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir (190 025), India

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232 1726323550 Biotica Research Today Sustainable Use of Canola Oil as an Alternative Lipid Source in Fish Feeds: Implications for Aquaculture and Fish Health Agriculture 680-682

Fish oil, rich in essential fatty acids, is a crucial component of fish feed due to its numerous health benefits for aquatic species. However, the rising demand for fish oil in aquaculture has led researchers to explore alternative sources of lipids. Canola oil, derived from rapeseed, has emerged as a prominent candidate due to its favorable fatty acid composition and cost-effectiveness. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and linoleic acid (LA), two essential fatty acids (EFA) for fish health, are found in canola oil. The study presents examples of the successful incorporation of canola oil in fish diets. It demonstrates that it can replace up to 100% of fish oil for freshwater species and up to 60% for marine species without compromising growth rates. The research suggests that canola oil holds promise as a sustainable alternative source of lipids for fish feeds, contributing to the goal of achieving efficient and cost-effective fish farming practices.

Aquaculture, Canola oil, Fish feed, Fish health NIL 2023-09-21 Popular Article Raghul R., Mani Selvam J. and Ramya V.

Raghul R.*

ICAR-Central Institute Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Mani Selvam J.

ICAR-Central Institute Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Ramya V.

ICAR-Central Institute Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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233 1726327097 Biotica Research Today The Indian Moon Moth in the Himalayan States: A Natural Marvel of the High Mountains Agriculture 697-699

The majestic Himalayan region, with its towering peaks and pristine landscapes, is not only a haven for trekkers and nature enthusiasts but also home to a remarkable creature like the Indian Moon Moth, scientifically known as Actias selene. This species of saturniid moth has enchanted amateur entomologists and nature enthusiasts for centuries. This enthralling moth species, characterized by its intriguing life cycle, silk production ability, distinct sexual dimorphism and ethereal beauty that thrives in the tranquil ecosystems of the Himalayan states. In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the world of the Indian Moon Moth within the Himalayan states, shedding light on its ecology, habitat and the significance of its presence in mountainous region along with this exploring taxonomy, behaviour and ecological significance. Furthermore, we discuss efforts to rear and conserve this magnificent insect and highlight the critical role of its diverse host plants in its survival.

Actias selene, Conservation, Himalayan region, Indian moon moth NIL 2023-09-26 Popular Article Sourabh Maheshwari and Dharanikota Lalithambica Devi

Sourabh Maheshwari*

Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

Dharanikota Lalithambica Devi

Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

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234 1726327544 Biotica Research Today Pest Management through RNAi Approach Agriculture 700-702

The biological approach for post-transcriptional gene silencing is the RNA interference (RNAi) technique. This method suppresses the production of desirable or specific genes targeted and proteins activated by dsRNA molecules. The RNA interference process can potentially increase agricultural yield by identifying and testing the function of numerous genes inside any genome. Recently, the RNAi technique for knocking down specific genes has shown to be a more admissible and effective tool. Three main methods have been adopted for managing insect pests through the RNAi approach: sprayable, nanoparticle-coated and in planta RNAi. It indicates that the RNAi mechanism is significantly feasible for managing various crop pests. Besides, RNAi application, combined with other methods like Bt, also provides an excellent option for managing pest insects prone to developing resistance to insecticidal proteins.

Gene silencing, Method of application, Pest Management, RNAi NIL 2023-09-27 Popular Article Gothandaraman Rajadurai, Selvaraj Anandakumar and Rajasekaran Raghu

Gothandaraman Rajadurai*

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, CPMB&B, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Selvaraj Anandakumar

Dept. of Crop Physiology, CCM, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Rajasekaran Raghu

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, CPMB&B, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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235 1726379993 Biotica Research Today October (2023) Biology and Management of Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Agriculture 724-725

The Helicoverpa armigera Hubner is a highly devasting pest to Tobacco, tomato, okra, cotton, etc. H. armigera is cosmopolitan insect which mainly distributed in Asia, Africa and Europe. The life cycle of H. armigera includes egg-laying, larval, pupal and adult stages, with specific durations for each stage. Identification characteristics of the insect at different life stages are described. Caterpillar cause economic damage by feeding on vegetative part of plant, seed and fruit of crop. The article discusses various management strategies to control H. armigera, including cultural methods such as crop rotation, trap crops and fertilizer application. Mechanical control methods, such as manual removal of larvae, are mentioned, along with biological control using parasitoids like Trichogramma spp. and Habrobracon hebetor wasps. Chemical control options like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and Spinosad are also explored.

Damage, Helicoverpa armigera, Life cycle, Management NIL 2023-10-11 Popular Article Nahida Afreen, Kartikey Singh, Prince Sahu and Aman Pratap Singh

Nahida Afreen

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Kartikey Singh*

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Prince Sahu

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Aman Pratap Singh

Dept. of Entomology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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236 1726410714 Biotica Research Today October (2023) Revolutionizing Plant Breeding: The Power of Bioinformatics Applications Agriculture 729-731

The field of plant breeding stands on the brink of a transformative revolution, driven by the integration of bioinformatics applications. This abstract explores the profound impact of bioinformatics in reshaping traditional breeding techniques. Leveraging genomics, transcriptomics and computational tools, researchers can now decode the genetic intricacies of plants with unprecedented precision. By analyzing vast datasets, bioinformatics facilitates the identification of desirable traits, accelerates breeding cycles and enhances crop yield and quality. Furthermore, it enables the development of resilient, climate-smart cultivars. This paradigm shift underscores the pivotal role of bioinformatics in ensuring food security, sustainability and innovation in agriculture, heralding a new era of plant breeding.

Bioinformatics-driven breeding, Crop resilience, Data-driven selection, Genomics NIL 2023-10-14 Popular Article Nitesh Kumar Sharma, Vijay Kamal Meena and Kapil Choudhary

Nitesh Kumar Sharma

Division of Agricultural Bioinformatics, ICAR-IASRI, Pusa, New Delhi (110 012), India

Vijay Kamal Meena

Agricultural Research Sub-Station (Sumerpur), Agriculture University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (306 902), India

Kapil Choudhary*

College of Agriculture (Sumerpur), Agriculture University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (306 902), India

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237 1726411848 Biotica Research Today October (2023) Integrated Pest Management for Sesame Leaf Roller and Capsule Borer, Antigastra catalaunalis (Duponchel) Agriculture 732-733

The valuable oilseed crop sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is susceptible to A. catalaunalis that can result in severe productivity losses. Farmers use a variety of techniques to mitigate this harm. Insect predators and entomopathogenic nematodes are some examples of natural enemies that are used in biological control techniques to reduce pest populations. These biocontrol chemicals provide sustainable and environmentally beneficial solutions. Additionally, due to their inherent insecticidal qualities, botanical chemicals made from plants, such as neem, pyrethrum and tobacco, have showed promise in controlling this pests of sesame crops. For its efficient use, proper formulation and application methods are essential. Chemical pesticides also contribute significantly to pest management when utilised properly. For minimising adverse environmental effects, their planned application, suitable selection and adherence to safety regulations are crucial.

Environment, Integrated pest management, Sesame (Sesamum indicum), Sesame leaf webber NIL 2023-10-15 Popular Article Shailendra Kumar Mishra, Mukesh Kumar Mishra, Brajrajsharan Tiwari, Ankit Kumar Mishra and Mohd. Danish

Shailendra Kumar Mishra*

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Mukesh Kumar Mishra

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Brajrajsharan Tiwari

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Ankit Kumar Mishra

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Mohd. Danish

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Sam Hangbitton University of Agriculture and Technology (SHUATS), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 007), India

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238 1726413134 Biotica Research Today November (2023) AI Revolutionizing Water Management: Challenges and Opportunities Agriculture 777-779

Water resource management is a complex task involving conservation, strategic collection and efficient distribution. Traditional methods are insufficient, necessitating comprehensive, sustainable strategies. This article explores the potential of AI in overcoming water management challenges. It highlights AI's advantages: multi-objective optimization, data-driven models and collaborative decision-making. However, it acknowledges hurdles like data quality, AI complexity and cost-effective implementation. It emphasizes sharing information, standardizing data, regulations, expertise development and academia-industry partnerships. AI can transform water management by enhancing quality, reducing waste and ensuring sustainability. Global cooperation and knowledge sharing are vital to address AI disparities in water management adoption.

Artificial intelligence, Data-driven models, Sustainable, Water resource management NIL 2023-11-05 Popular Article Rashmi Yadav, Ajay Kushwah, Chinmayee Parida and Priyanka Kashyap

Rashmi Yadav*

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Ajay Kushwah

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Chinmayee Parida

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Priyanka Kashyap

Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh (492 012), India

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239 1726413550 Biotica Research Today November (2023) Unveiling the Future of Urban and Semi-Urban Hydroponic Farming with Nutrient Film Technique Agriculture 781-782

The world is rapidly urbanising and facing challenges with food security, making traditional farming methods unsustainable. By effectively utilising space, water and nutrients, the soilless hydroponic system known as Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) provides a sustainable solution. This article explores the novel features of NFT, shedding light on its adaptability to urban settings, where space and resource constraints frequently make conventional farming impractical. NFT minimises environmental impact while maximising crop yield by continuously supplying nutrients to plant roots. Furthermore, reducing water use and minimising chemical runoff are two of the environmental benefits it addresses. As we approach the dawn of a new agricultural era, this article highlights the promising future of urban and semi-urban hydroponic farming, emphasising NFT as a groundbreaking technique with broad implications for sustainable food production.

Hydroponics, Nutrient film technique, Protected cultivation, Sustainable agriculture NIL 2023-11-07 Popular Article Adarsha Gopalakrishna Bhat, Sweety Mukherjee, Vinayak Paradkar and Pragya Balley

Adarsha Gopalakrishna Bhat*

Division of Agricultural Engineering, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

Sweety Mukherjee

Division of Agricultural Extension, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

Vinayak Paradkar

Centre for Protected Cultivation Technology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

Pragya Balley

Centre for Protected Cultivation Technology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

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240 1726413588 Biotica Research Today October (2023) Enhancing Nutritional Value through Biofortification in Indian Crops: A Comprehensive Overview Agriculture 738-740

Biofortification, employing selective breeding, genetic modification and enriched fertilizers, stands as a cost-effective solution to address micronutrient deficiencies in populations with limited dietary diversity. This innovative process enhances essential vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, B12, C and E) and minerals in staple crops, ensuring significant health and nutritional improvements upon regular consumption. Biofortification employs a range of diverse methodologies, encompassing agronomic practises, conventional breeding, and advanced biotechnology techniques. In India, significant advancements have been made in several initiatives, particularly in the area of rice fortification. These efforts have primarily targeted isolated populations, with the support of government programmes such as the Mid-Day Meal and Integrated Child Development schemes. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has developed criteria for fortified rice, with a particular focus on incorporating novel methods such as continuous blending. Despite encountering various obstacles, biofortification holds the potential to contribute to a more salubrious future by providing fair and equal access to vital nutrients, particularly in rural regions.

Agriculture, Biofortification, Micronutrients, Nutrition NIL 2023-10-17 Popular Article Ranjani M., Sindhu P.M., Rajan Mahendra and Ajay Narola

Ranjani M.*

Division of Food Science and Postharvest Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Sindhu P.M.

Division of Food Science and Postharvest Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Rajan Mahendra

Division of Food Science and Postharvest Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Ajay Narola

Division of Food Science and Postharvest Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

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241 1726414518 Biotica Research Today November (2023) Pterocarpus marsupium: A Potential Gum-Yielding Species with Medicinal Values Agriculture 786-788

Pterocarpus marsupium belongs to the one of the largest family, Fabaceae. The tree grows up to 1000 m high in arid tropical mixed deciduous woodlands in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and the sub-Himalayan regions in central and peninsular India. This species' autogenic reproductive deficit makes it threatened. It is one of the tree species yielding gum with medicinal values. It is commonly known as kino gum. Additionally, it yields high-protein green fodder that is great for animal feed and essential for cattle survival during the dry season. The tree is valuable for fodder, timber and medicinal value. Pterocarpus marsupium finds medicinal importance in various indigenous systems of medicine. Pterocarpus marsupium is one of the ingredients in several Ayurvedic formulations.

Gum, Kino gum, Medicinal values, Pterocarpus marsupium NIL 2023-11-11 Popular Article Roghan H.B. and Murugesh M.

Roghan H.B.*

Dept. of Silviculture and Agroforestry, Forest College and Research Institute, Mettupalayam, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

Murugesh M.

Dept. of Silviculture and Agroforestry, Forest College and Research Institute, Mettupalayam, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

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242 1726414307 Biotica Research Today October (2023) Integrated Pest Management for Mustard Aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kaltenbach) Agriculture 741-742

Mustard aphid is the most serious and destructive insect pest of all and it is a major limiting factor for mustard farming. IPM techniques that combine cultural, biological and chemical control measures are advised for effective pest management. Crop rotation, early planting and trap cropping are all cultural practises that can aid in insect prevention and control. Biological control, which employs natural enemies like as parasitoids and predators, is essential for pest population control. Selective pesticide applications are considered when pest numbers surpass economic criteria. Regular pest population monitoring and early intervention based on defined thresholds are crucial for efficient pest control. Continuous research and innovation are also essential to establish and improve sustainable management practises. Farmers can use these comprehensive and integrated pest control strategies to reduce the impact of insect pests, safeguard mustard crops from injury and ensure long-term mustard production.

Biological control, Integrated approaches, Mustard aphid, Pest management NIL 2023-10-18 Popular Article Shani Mishra, Ankit Kumar Mishra, Brajrajsharan Tiwari, Shailendra Kumar Mishra and Mohd. Danish

Shani Mishra

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Baba Raghav Das Post Graduate College, Deoria, Uttar Pradesh (270 001), India

Ankit Kumar Mishra

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Brajrajsharan Tiwari

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Shailendra Kumar Mishra*

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Mohd. Danish

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Sam Hangbitton University of Agriculture and Technology (SHUATS), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 007), India

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243 1726414784 Biotica Research Today November (2023) Nematicidal Properties of Plant Extracts against Root-Knot Nematode Agriculture 789-791

The worldwide nematicides market is anticipated to sustain its growth. Natural organic meals free of artificial chemicals are becoming more and more in demand and botanical nematodes are leading the way as alternatives. As a result, there have been intense attempts in the past few years to identify principal plant secondary metabolites. These primarily consist of glucosinolates and the isothiocyanates that result from their hydrolysis, as well as flavonoids, limonoids, alkaloids, saponins, quassinoids and the essential oils that have been studied more recently. The introduction of novel botanical nematicides still lags and disparities in quality, effectiveness, strength and composition persist despite their considerable promise.

Bioactive compounds, Meloidogyne sp., Nematode control, Plant extract NIL 2023-11-12 Popular Article Prabhu S. and Poorniammal R.

Prabhu S.*

Dept. of Plant Nematology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Poorniammal R.

Dept. of Microbiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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244 1726415057 Biotica Research Today November (2023) Millet's Role in Human Nutrition and Its Value Chain Challenges Agriculture 792-795

The food assets available in developing tropical nations are insufficient to provide protein for humans and animals. The growing urbanization, reduction in cropped regions, growing populations, climate change, insufficient knowledge and strong competition between food and feed transactions for presently grown food crops all contribute to a constraint in the available food supply. On this basis, identifying, assessing and introducing millet crops, taking into account their tribal utility is generally emerging as a solution to a dependable source of food and feed material along with nutrition. The nutritive relevance of millets necessitates an examination of the functional and nutritional characteristics of various millet cultivars, in addition to the development of millets-based value-added items. It is a reliable energy source. They provide protein, fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, dietary fiber and polyphenols. In view of the above, the present article endeavors to emphasize millet crops' potential for human nutrition.

Health benefits, Millets, Nutritional value, Processing NIL 2023-11-14 Popular Article Suraj Mishra, Kaushlendra Mani Tripathi, Amar Singh Gaur, Rahul Verma and Jagannath Pathak

Suraj Mishra*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Kaushlendra Mani Tripathi

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Amar Singh Gaur

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Rahul Verma

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Jagannath Pathak

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

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245 1726414823 Biotica Research Today October (2023) Production Technology of Vermicompost and Its Characteristics Agriculture 743-746

Farmers and agricultural scientists face a wide range of challenges as crop yields stagnate, organic matter declines, multi-nutrient deficiencies occur, climate change affects agriculture, primary agricultural resources are shrinking, genetically modified organisms are resisting them and labour is scarce. It has been determined that uneven fertilization and diminishing soil organic matter content have caused crop yield and productivity of the majority of crops to stagnate. Vermicomposting contributes significantly to the maintenance and enhancement of soil fertility. As organic wastes are returned to the soil, they can improve soil properties and contribute to the improvement of soil quality, fertility and productivity. Vermicomposting organic waste creates high-quality compost in terms of nutrients and is effective at speeding up the decomposition process. It is a crucial part of an integrated plant nutrient supply system that ensures healthy soils, balanced fertilization and long-term productivity.

Earthworm, Natural enemies, Soil health, Vermiculture NIL 2023-10-19 Popular Article Suraj Mishra, A.K. Chaubey, Kaushlendra Mani Tripathi, Vaibhav Pandey and K.P. Pandey

Suraj Mishra*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

A.K. Chaubey

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Kaushlendra Mani Tripathi

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Vaibhav Pandey

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology (CSAUAT), Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

K.P. Pandey

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

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246 1726415455 Biotica Research Today November (2023) Zero Budget Natural Farming: Highly Debated Concept of Indian Agriculture Agriculture 796-798

Zero budget natural farming (ZBNF) is a newly hatched agricultural system that has become enormously popular in recent years. Zero budget natural farming is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective approach, which discards the use of all the chemical inputs and depends on natural ways. Zero budget farmers rely on soil conservation techniques, mulching, fertilizers, natural pesticides and crop residues to improve soil health. It promotes the use of on-farm resources and indigenous animals to develop a natural means of cultivation. Since this method was new there were several claims to its scientific reliability. It needs a strong scientific evaluation or validation of its claim from research bodies like ICAR to study its impacts on agriculture.

Jeevamrutha, Natural farming, Sustainability, Zero budgeting NIL 2023-11-15 Popular Article A. Ajay Arockia Iraiyanban and A. Visuvasa Anto Shiny

A. Ajay Arockia Iraiyanban*

Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Karunya Nagar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

A. Visuvasa Anto Shiny

Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Karunya Nagar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

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247 1726415656 Biotica Research Today October (2023) Line × Tester Analysis in Agriculture Agriculture 747-748

Line × Tester analysis is a valuable tool in agricultural research, enabling the evaluation of combining ability and interaction effects between different genotypes. It has diverse applications in hybrid development, parental selection, trait mapping, combining ability estimation, gene action studies and environmental adaptation. This article develops basic understanding of Line × Tester analysis and its possible application in various fields of agriculture.

Diallele cross, GCA, SCA, Trait mapping NIL 2023-10-20 Popular Article Ankit Kumar Singh, Anita Sarkar, Prabhat Kumar, Manoj Varma Satyam Verma and Kaushal Kumar Yadav,

Ankit Kumar Singh*

The Graduate School, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Anita Sarkar

The Graduate School, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Prabhat Kumar

The Graduate School, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Manoj Varma

The Graduate School, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Satyam Verma

The Graduate School, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Kaushal Kumar Yadav

The Graduate School, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

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248 1726416623 Biotica Research Today November (2023) Navigating Complexity: Multi-Gear Fisheries in India - Prospects and Challenges Agriculture 804-807

The Indian fisheries sector is characterized by a rich aquatic diversity. The dynamic nature and complex interplay of factors such as target species, environmental conditions, economic considerations, technological advancements, cultural practices and conservation goals have made Indian fisheries a multi-gear type, where different fishing craft and gear combinations are used for capture. Multi-gear fisheries have both darker and brighter sides. While the diversified catches, seasonal adaptation, reduced environmental impact, optimized efficiency and risk management against overreliance on a single species acts as its opportunities, the challenges include juvenile fishing, gear conflicts, bycatch, overfishing, ecosystem impact and illegal fishing. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach, including ecosystem-based fisheries management, improved data collection, effective regulations, enhanced monitoring and enforcement, scientific research and stakeholder engagement. By this India can navigate the complexity of multi-gear fisheries and work towards a more resilient and ecologically responsible future for its fisheries sector.

Challenges, Marine fisheries, Multi-gear fisheries, Prospects NIL 2023-11-22 Popular Article M.R. Ashpel Mano, K. Gopi and Kalidoss Radhakrishnan

M.R. Ashpel Mano*

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

K. Gopi

TNJFU-Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Kalidoss Radhakrishnan

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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249 1726416849 Biotica Research Today October (2023) Integrated Nutrient Management for Sustainable Agriculture Agriculture 753-755

Soil fertility must be maintained by carefully utilizing inorganic and organic nutrient supplies. Growing population food demands, as well as the necessity for an environmentally responsible approach to long-term agricultural improvement, necessitate careful attention when addressing crop yield increase. Integrated nutrition management (INM) is seen as a reassuring technique for dealing with such difficulties and plays a critical role in addressing these concerns. INM is capable of improving plant efficiency and effectiveness of resources are improved, while security for the environment and quality of resources are preserved.

Food demand, INM, Organic nutrient, Soil fertility NIl 2023-10-22 Popular Article Kaushlendra Mani Tripathi, Deo Kumar, Suraj Mishra, Shwetank Shukla and Arvind Kumar Shukla

Kaushlendra Mani Tripathi

Dept. of Soil Science and Agril. Chemistry, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Deo Kumar*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agril. Chemistry, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Suraj Mishra

Dept. of Soil Science and Agril. Chemistry, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Shwetank Shukla

Dept. of Soil Science and Agril. Chemistry, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology (ANDUAT), Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Arvind Kumar Shukla

Dept. of Soil Science and Agril. Chemistry, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology (BUAT), Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

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250 1726417369 Biotica Research Today November (2023) A Comprehensive Study of Analysis of Climate Change Patterns Using R Software Agriculture 811-813

Currently, globally, climate change has far-reaching effects. Understanding the climate change patterns and trends that contribute to its development involves the analysis of climatic data. This study introduces a thorough method for utilizing the R programming language to analyse trends related to climate change. R offers a framework for data analysis and visualization that is versatile and powerful which makes it a perfect tool for analysing complicated climate-related data. The study covers several analytic issues, such as statistical modelling, data preparation and visualization methods. The objective of this paper is to highlight the informative guide for using R to analyse patterns.

Climate change, Data analysis, R programming, Visualization NIL 2023-11-30 Popular Article Pragati Kumari

Pragati Kumari*

Dept. of Fisheries Science, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi, Kerala (682 506), India

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251 1726417405 Biotica Research Today October (2023) The Phenomenon of Cheating in Plant Pathogens Agriculture 756-758

Plant pathogens, which exist as populations going through evolutionary processes within their host, are an essential part of the soil and host microbiome. Numerous facets of virulence depend on social interactions between and within microbial populations, which are primarily mediated by multiple forms of public goods, comprising effector molecules, exo-enzymes, and quorum-sensing signalling molecules. Disease progression and virulence have social implications that significantly impact the fitness of microbes and hosts. Numerous opportunities for pathogens to deceive the host are highlighted by the molecular basis of infection events and the sequential stages of plant-pathogen interactions. Additionally, there is evidence of variation in the level of virulence exhibited by different phytopathogens. Understanding of interactions within microbes, avenues of opportunities and cheating exhibited by these microbes will enable us to get clear insight of their role in disease progression and further adoption of tactics to manage plant pathogens.

Cheating, Opportunities, Plant pathogens, Public goods NIL 2023-10-23 Popular Article Raghunandana, Ramesh M. Maradi, Arvind M., Shivalingappa Hotkar and Angulimala Sagar

Raghunandana*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

Ramesh M. Maradi

Dept. of Agriculture Entomology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

Arvind M.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, RARI, Durgapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 018), India

Shivalingappa Hotkar

KVK-Vijayapura, Karnataka (586 102), India

Angulimala Sagar

Dept. of Plant Pathology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

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252 1726418425 Biotica Research Today October (2023) Nanopesticides: Scope and Utility in Insect Pest Management Agriculture 759-761

Insect pests are the major biotic stress responsible for yield loss in crop plants under field and storage conditions. Chemical pesticides used for the management of these pests result in problems like resistance, resurgence and residue problems due to the poor water solubility, dispersibility and persistency of conventional pesticide formulations. Because of their poor pest control performance, repeated use of insecticides is necessary, which will further enhance the above-mentioned pesticide problems. Nanopesticides having a particle size below 100 nm have advantages over their conventional commercial formulations concerning improved solubility, dispersibility and persistency. The use of nanopesticides will not only avoid the problems associated with pesticide usage but also reduce the cost of plant protection by cutting down the amount of active ingredients required for pest management.

Insect pest management, Nanoemulsions, Nanopesticides, Nanotechnology NIL 2023-10-24 Popular Article Bharati Jambunatha Patil, Pramod Katti, G. Sham Supreeth and Abinaya S.

Bharati Jambunatha Patil*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka (584 104), India

Pramod Katti, G.

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka (584 104), India

Sham Supreeth

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka (584 104), India

Abinaya S.

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka (584 104), India

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253 1726419124 Biotica Research Today October (2023) CRISPR-Cas-based Detection of Plant Pathogens Agriculture 762-764

Climate change is causing unforeseen alterations in pathogenic agents, contributing to the emergence of novel pathogen variants that can devastate crops. To overcome this, timely phytopathogen detection is crucial. CRISPR-Cas technology has recently emerged as a versatile and adaptable tool, well-suited for detecting a broad range of plant pathogens. This helps in developing disease management strategies and treatment plans. Among the different Cas variants, Cas12a and Cas13a are widely used for phytopathogen detection. Usually, the CRISPR-Cas system is followed after recombinase polymerase amplification or loop-mediated isothermal amplification, and the specific binding of the Cas protein to nucleic acid (Target) is detected as a measurable fluorescent or electrochemical signal. The advantages of CRISPR-Cas technology include high specificity, sensitivity, rapid results, etc. As CRISPR-Cas technology advances and becomes more accessible, integrating it into plant pathology holds great promise for improving food security and sustainability.

CRISPR-Cas, Detection, Disease, Plant Pathogens NIL 2023-10-25 Popular Article Lham Dorjee and Meniari Taku

Lham Dorjee*

Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Meniari Taku

Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

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254 1726855862 Plant Health Archives Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): Clarifying the Genomic Landscape for Precision Pest Management in Agriculture Plant Pathology 48-60

The story of Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) is presented in detail, covering its discovery in 1901 and its rise to prominence in the worldwide fight against pests. Originating with Shigetane Ishiwata's isolation in 1901 and Ernst Berliner's identification in 1911, Bt's milestones include the 1958 commercialization and 1996 introduction of genetically modified Bt crops, covering 1.5 billion hectares by 2022. Bt, a dominant force in biocontrol with over 98% of commercialized biopesticides, employs diverse toxins such as Cry, Cyt and Vip families. Its precise insecticidal action, notably Cry proteins' multistep mechanism, targets key pests like Fall Armyworm and Diamondback Moth. Bt's versatile applications extend to combating nematodes and genetic exploration through advanced techniques, including whole genome sequencing. Indigenous Bt isolates, exemplified by T405 and T414, showcase robust toxicity. Phylogenetic tree construction unravels the evolutionary pathways of insecticidal crystal proteins, portraying Bt as a resilient force in safeguarding agriculture and ecosystems. This review concludes by envisioning the future evolution of Bt's application in agriculture, emphasizing sustainable practices guided by the collaboration between nature and science.

Bacillus thuringiensis, Bioinsecticide proteins, Evolutionary analysis, Genetically modified crops, Genome profiling https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.2.2024/48-60 2024-06-18 Review Articles Berryish Metha, C., Samuel Peter, Bishnupriya Gauda, Dhanvarsha M. and Selsiya Billy

Berryish Metha, C.*

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Samuel Peter

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Bishnupriya Gauda

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Dhanvarsha M.

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Selsiya Billy

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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255 1726857196 Biotica Research Today Prospects for Dragon Fruit Cultivation in Odisha Agriculture 416-418

Horticulture is undergoing a significant transformation as traditional crops are increasingly being supplemented or replaced by exotic and underutilized species. This shift is driven by evolving consumer preferences and the need for crop diversification. Odisha's diverse geography, which ranges from coastal plains to hilly interiors, is particularly suitable for cultivating dragon fruit. This fruit, rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, enhances immunity and protects against cellular damage. Its exotic appeal and health benefits have heightened urban market demand. In response to this potential, the Odisha government has launched several initiatives to support dragon fruit cultivation, including subsidies for planting materials and equipment, technical assistance through agricultural extension services and efforts to establish market linkages.

Dragon fruit, Exotic fruit, Nutrition, Odisha NIL 2024-08-24 Popular Article S. Jena, S. Routray and A. Phonglosa

S. Jena*

DEE, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

S. Routray

ICAR-CISH, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh (227 017), India

A. Phonglosa

DEE, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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256 1726857851 Biotica Research Today Genetically Modified Insects Agriculture 419-422

Technological and scientific advancement has recently proved advantageous for raising crop production and improving public health. Genetic engineering technology is one example of such progress. In this regard, transgenic crops are an effective model. However, insect genetic manipulation is becoming increasingly significant. Applications of genetically modified insects are numerous and include managing agricultural pests, managing disease vectors in humans and animals, improving the efficiency of beneficial insects like silkworms and honey bees and industrial entomology. This technology is even now in its infancy in India. It is imperative that need-based research be done and that a safety framework is established in this field.

Biotechnology, Genetic engineering, Sterile insect technique, Transgenic insects NIL 2024-08-26 Popular Article Bharati Jambunatha Patil, Pramod Katti and G. Sham Supreeth

Bharati Jambunatha Patil*

Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka (584 104), India

Pramod Katti

Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka (584 104), India

G. Sham Supreeth

Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka (584 104), India

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257 1728205407 Plant Health Archives Effectiveness of Microbial and Plant Extracts for Pest and Disease Management in Cucumber Production in Abuja Region of Nigeria Entomology 70-88

Cucumber is an essential crop in Nigeria predominantly produced by smallholder farmers. Its yield is often hindered by pests and diseases and exacerbated by the reliance on chemical treatments that pose environmental risks. This study addresses the research gap regarding the effectiveness of microbial and plant extracts for pest and disease management in Nigeria for cucumber production.

A randomised complete block design was employed to compare the performance of T1 (Bacillus pumilus), T2 (Isaria fumosorosea), T3 (mixture of T1 and T2), T4 (neem oil), T5 (fermented neem leaf extract), T6 (mixture of T4 and T5) and T7 (control with water) in field and pot environments. The study observed pest and disease incidence, growth and yield parameters. The best treatments for pest control were T2 (1.92) and T5 (2.08) while the least effective treatments were T1 (4.71) and T4 (6.17) pest population plant-1, while T6 was effective in downy mildew and bacterial wilt management with a value of 2.46 and 2.17, respectively, with the highest disease score recorded in T2 with a value of 3.17 and 2.75 for downy mildew and bacterial wilt respectively. The environmental conditions affected the field (11.99 t ha-1 and 3.19) significantly. They favoured higher fruit yield and quality compared to the pot (2.20 t ha-1 and 2.44) with T4 (7.94 t ha-1) and T1 (10.10 t ha-1) treatments having the highest yield while the lowest of 4.83 t ha-1 was recorded in T6. The study concludes that environmental conditions play crucial role in the efficacy of treatments.

Bacillus, Bacterial wilt, Cucumber, Downy mildew, Erwinia, Neem https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.3.2024/70-88 2024-07-25 Research Articles Durojaye Hammed Abiodun, Kwasari Robert Samuel, Ado Manasseh H., James Confidence N., Iwan Aondover Barnabas, Chukwu Agozirim I. and Kalu Amarachi Agwu

Durojaye Hammed Abiodun*

Be the Help Foundation Agroforestry, Plot 25 SCL Farm, Dama-Kusa, Kwali Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria

Kwasari Robert Samuel

Be the Help Foundation Agroforestry, Plot 25 SCL Farm, Dama-Kusa, Kwali Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria

Ado Manasseh H.

Be the Help Foundation Agroforestry, Plot 25 SCL Farm, Dama-Kusa, Kwali Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria

James Confidence N.

Be the Help Foundation Agroforestry, Plot 25 SCL Farm, Dama-Kusa, Kwali Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria

Iwan Aondover Barnabas

Be the Help Foundation Agroforestry, Plot 25 SCL Farm, Dama-Kusa, Kwali Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria

Chukwu Agozirim I.

Be the Help Foundation Agroforestry, Plot 25 SCL Farm, Dama-Kusa, Kwali Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria

Kalu Amarachi Agwu

Be the Help Foundation Agroforestry, Plot 25 SCL Farm, Dama-Kusa, Kwali Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria

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258 1728212255 Innovative Farming January-March (2021) Influence of Organic Amendments on Soil Health under Vegetable based Cropping Sequences at Mid-Hills Altitude of Meghalaya Agriculture 01-05

Field experiments were conducted during 2005 to 2015 at the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (950 m ASL) to study the effects of organic nutrient management practices on soil health under vegetable based cropping sequences. The organic sources used were farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost (VC), and integrated nutrient sources (½ through FYM + ½ through VC) applied on N equivalent basis; phosphosporus requirement being compensated through rock phosphate. Three cropping sequences tested were maize + soybean - tomato, maize + soybean - potato and maize + soybean - French bean. For present study, the data on soil health parameters were recorded during 2015 after 10 cropping cycles. The soil organic carbon concentration improved significantly due to application of all the organic manures as nutrient sources than that under control. Maximum microbial population and soil microbial biomass carbon were recorded with integrated nutrient source. The soil properties like nutrient status and SOC were higher under maize + soybean - tomato than others. Thus, FYM + VC as source of nutrient supply under maize + soybean - tomato system was found to be effective for sustainable organic food production in NEH region of India.

Economics, Organic farming, Produce quality, Productivity, Soil fertility, Yield NIL 2021-01-21 Research Articles Manoj Kumar, Anup Das, Ramkrushna G.I., Jayanta Layek and Subhash Babu

Manoj Kumar

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Anup Das*

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Ramkrushna G.I.

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Jayanta Layek

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Subhash Babu

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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259 1728213298 Innovative Farming January-March (2021) Effect of Different Weed Management Practices on the Weed Population Dynamics of Direct Seeded Upland Rice under Tripura Condition Agriculture 06-11

A field experiment was conducted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, South Tripura during the kharif (wet) season of 2013 and 2014 to study the influence of different weed management practices on weed population dynamics of direct seeded upland rice under Tripura condition. The experiment consisted of twelve treatments laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. Among the various treatments, ICAR(RC) for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, pendimethalin at 1.0 kg ha-1 at 2 DAS + bispyribac sodium at 25 g ha-1 at 20 DAS (T4) recorded the lowest number of all weed in both the years followed by pendimethalin at 1.0 kg ha-1 at 2 DAS + one hand weeding at 30 DAS (T3). At 60 and 90 DAS, lowest weeds population was recorded by hand weeding thrice at 15, 30 and 45 DAS (T11). The highest net return and benefit cost ratio was observed with the treatment pendimethalin at 1.0 kg ha-1 at 2 DAS + bispyribac sodium at 25 g ha-1 at 20 DAS (T4).

Direct seeded rice, Economics, Hand weeding, Pendimethalin, Weed management NIL 2021-01-29 Short Communication Mandira Chakraborti, Buddhadeb Duary and Mrinmoy Datta

Mandira Chakraborti*

Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy), Krishi Vigyan Kendra (ICAR), West Tripura, Champaknagar, Tripura (799 045), India

Buddhadeb Duary

Associate Professor, Dept. of ASEPAN, Palli Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal (731 236), India

Mrinmoy Datta

Former Joint Director, ICAR (RC) for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

Principal, College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

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260 1728216616 Innovative Farming January-March (2021) Performance of Potato Variety Kufri Jyoti in the Farmers Field of Udalguri District of Assam with Proper Fertility Management Agriculture 16-19

Field demonstrations were conducted at farmers’ field of Kacharital village, District Udalguri, BTR, Assam during the rabi season of 2020-21 and 2021-22. The soil was sandy loam in texture, acidic (pH 5.7) in reaction and medium in available nitrogen (282.50 kg ha-1), phosphorus (28.75 kg ha-1) and potassium (140.80 kg ha-1). Increase in the number of leaves plant-1, plant height, higher number of tubers plant-1, total tuber yield, was recorded in the treatment receiving Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF) + FYM which was much higher than the control. The applications of recommended dose of fertilizer with FYM positively influence growth and yield of crop, economic parameters.

Fertility management, FYM, Kufri Jyoti, Potato NIL 2021-03-08 Short Communication Debasish Borah, Bhaskar Baruah, Himadri Rabha and R.K. Saud

Debasish Borah*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool BTR, Udalguri, Assam (784 514), India

Bhaskar Baruah

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool BTR, Udalguri, Assam (784 514), India

Himadri Rabha

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool BTR, Udalguri, Assam (784 514), India

R.K. Saud

Directorate of Extension Education, AAU, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

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261 1728216954 Innovative Farming January-March (2021) Effect of Integrated Use of Lime, Organics, Inorganic Fertilizers and Biofertilizer on Improving Soil Fertility Status and Biological Properties of Soil - A Review Agriculture 20-27

This review summarizes the current knowledge on the effect of integrated use of lime, organics, inorganic fertilizers and biofertilizers on improving fertility status and biological properties of soils. Most of the investigators confirmed that combined application of lime, organics, inorganic fertilizers and biofertilizers on improving fertility status and biological properties of soils. Long term application of organics, inorganic fertilizers and biofertilizer resulted in increase in soil organic carbon status. Organic manures improve soil biological properties but as because they are low in nutrient content, so for plant growth it requires larger quantity of organic manures. However, inorganic fertilizer usually releases nutrients immediately and they are directly accessible to plants. But continuous application of inorganic fertilizer is harmful for soil health and it results in environmental pollution. Combined application of lime, organics, inorganic fertilizers and biofertilizer is very much effective for sustainable and cost effective management of soil fertility. The objective of present review is to assess the effect of integrated use of lime, organics, inorganic fertilizers and biofertilizer on improving fertility status and on improving the biological properties of soil.

Biofertilizer, Inorganic fertilizers, Lime, Organic manure, Soil fertility NIL 2021-03-22 Review Articles D. Dey, M.C. Kundu and D. Sen

D. Dey*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Palli Siksha Bhavana (Institute of Agriculture), Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, Birbhum, West Bengal (731 236), India

M.C. Kundu

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Palli Siksha Bhavana (Institute of Agriculture), Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, Birbhum, West Bengal (731 236), India

D. Sen

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Lembuchera, West Tripura (799 210), India

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262 1728217741 Innovative Farming System of Rice Intensification and Integrated Crop Management under Integrated Nutrient Management Improves Growth and Productivity of Lowland Rice Agriculture 28-35

Appropriate rice culture contributes to efficient utilization of limited resources which may contribute to enhance growth and productivity of rice in north eastern hill region. A field study was conducted with three rice cultures i.e., system of rice intensification (SRI), integrated crop management (ICM) and conventional rice culture (CRC) and five nutrient management practices viz., recommended dose of nutrients (RDN) (80:60:40 kg NPK ha-1), farmyard manure (FYM) 10 t ha-1, RDF + FYM 5 t ha-1, 50% RDN + FYM 10 t ha-1 and control in lowland Agronomy field of ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region Umiam, Meghalaya, India. The results revealed that growth attributes of rice like plant height, tillers plant-1, no of leaves plant-1 and root dry matter production were significantly higher under SRI at maturity which was at par with ICM but remained significantly superior to CRC. However, tillers per unit area were higher under CRC followed by ICM and SRI. The grain yield of rice was maximum under integrated application of RDN + FYM 5 t ha-1 under ICM which was at par with integrated application of 50% RDN + FYM 5 t ha-1 under ICM and integrated application of RDN + FYM 5 t ha-1 under SRI. Thus, the study indicated that adoption of younger seedlings with appropriate age and planting geometry can substantially enhance rice productivity under integrated application of organic and synthetic fertilizers in north eastern hill region.

Hill ecosystem, Integrated nutrient management, Rice culture, Water management NIL 2021-04-06 Research Articles Badahunlang Wahlang, Anup Das, Jayanta Layek, Ramkrushna G.I. and Subhash Babu

Badahunlang Wahlang

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Anup Das*

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Jayanta Layek

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Ramkrushna G.I.

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Subhash Babu

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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263 1728219436 Innovative Farming Phospholipid Fatty Acid Profiling for Soil Microbial Community Analysis in Soil Conservation Farming, Missouri Agriculture 58-67

Cover crops and crop rotations are utilized for improving degraded soils by creating a continuous ground cover and adding organic matter. They improve soil microbial biodiversity which is also an indicator of soil health. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of cover crops and crop rotation on soil microbial properties using phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) profiles. Corn (Zea mays L.)/soybean (Glycine max. L), (CS) and corn/soybean/wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) (CSW) rotation with various cover crop mixtures was tested. The control treatment had no cover crops. The PLFA profile results indicated that total bacteria (3331-1487 ng g-1 soil), fungi (980-355 ng g-1 soil), protozoa (111-25 ng g-1 soil), actinomycetes (613-263 ng g-1 soil) were significantly higher in CSW plots compared to CS rotation plots and control, indicating the impact on soil microbial population. The short period of cover crop incorporation did not influence soil microbial population significantly.

Bacteria, Cover crop, Crop rotation, Diversity, PLFA NIL 2021-06-01 Research Articles Sougata Bardhan, Ranjith P. Udawatta, Shibu Jose, Clark J. Gantzer and Christopher Bobryk

Sougata Bardhan*

The Center for Agroforestry, School of Natural Resources, 203 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, University of Missouri, MO 65211, Columbia

School of Natural Resources, 302 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, University of Missouri, MO 65211, Columbia

Ranjith P. Udawatta

The Center for Agroforestry, School of Natural Resources, 203 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, University of Missouri, MO 65211, Columbia

School of Natural Resources, 302 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, University of Missouri, MO 65211, Columbia

Shibu Jose

The Center for Agroforestry, School of Natural Resources, 203 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, University of Missouri, MO 65211, Columbia

School of Natural Resources, 302 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, University of Missouri, MO 65211, Columbia

Clark J. Gantzer

School of Natural Resources, 302 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, University of Missouri, MO 65211, Columbia

Christopher Bobryk

Missouri Department of Natural Resources, 1101 Riverside Drive, Jefferson City, MO 65101, Missouri

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264 1728281545 Innovative Farming Process Optimization for Dragon Fruit Juice based Herbal Beverage Fortified with Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) and Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum) Agricultural Engineering 10-23

The aim of this investigation was to optimise the process of formulating a herbal beverage made from the juice of dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.), enhanced with the extracts of Stevia rebaudiana leaves and Chlorophytum borivilianum (safed musli) roots. Dragon fruit juice, the foundational component of the fortified beverage, was extracted using a mechanised fruit juicer. Through preliminary trials, various amounts of stevia extract (10%, 12%, 14% and 16%, v/v) and dragon fruit juice (80%, 85% and 90%, v/v) were assessed. 2% safed musli extract was added consistently to all samples. The physico-chemical characteristics of the beverage, microbiological load and sensory aspects were evaluated during a 60-day storage period. Based on the sensory test, the formulation with 90% dragon fruit juice, 10% stevia extract and 2% safed musli extract have showed the maximum degree of acceptance. After 60 days of storage under ambient circumstances, microbial analysis revealed that samples with the highest concentration of stevia extract (16%) and the lowest content of dragon fruit juice (80%) had the lowest microbial count (1.033×105 cfu ml-1). Furthermore, whereas total sugars and sensory scores decreased with storage, notable increases in total soluble solids (TSS), acidity and total plate count (TPC) were noted. These results lay the groundwork for creating a herbal beverage made from dragon fruit that is sweetened with stevia and has better shelf life and acceptability among consumers.

Extract, Herbal beverage, Safed musli roots, Sensory quality, Stevia leaves https://doi.org/10.54083/IF/8.1.2023/10-23 2023-02-12 Research Articles Jitendra Kumar, Krishna Kumar Patel, S.K. Goyal, Durga Shankar Bunkar and Jai P. Rai

Jitendra Kumar

Dept. of Agricultural Engineering, SDJPG College, Chandeshwar, Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh (276 128), India

Krishna Kumar Patel

Dept. of Agricultural Engineering, Post Graduate College, Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh (233 001), India

S.K. Goyal*

Dept. of Agricultural Engineering (KVK), Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, RGSC, Barkachha, Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh (231 001), India

Durga Shankar Bunkar

Dept. of Diary Science and Food Technology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Jai P. Rai

Dept. of Mycology and Plant Pathology (KVK), Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, RGSC, Barkachha, Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh (231 001), India

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265 1728294591 Innovative Farming The Impact of Chawki Rearing Centers on Late-Age Farmers' Livelihoods Sericulture 01-04

This study investigates the impact of Chawki Rearing Centers (CRCs) on enhancing sericulture productivity for late-age farmers in Tamil Nadu. An opinion survey was conducted in 2017-2018 with 135 farmers from districts such as Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri and Salem. Using Garrett’s ranking technique; key benefits of CRCs were analyzed. The data showed that CRCs improved resource management, allowing farmers to rear up to 5-6 crops year-1, significantly reducing labor intensity by 32% and enhancing cocoon quality by 22%. Additionally, CRCs lowered rearing costs by 18% and helped stabilize yields with a 25% reduction in contamination risks. The production of healthy, uniform silkworms led to improved economic outcomes for the farmers. These findings highlight the role of CRCs in promoting sustainable sericulture and reducing both the physical and financial burdens on late-age farmers.

Chawki rearing centers, Cocoon quality, Late-age farmers, Sericulture, Sustainable practices NIL 2022-01-09 Short Communication Manickavasagam Mithilasri, K. Uma and Shankar S.M.

Manickavasagam Mithilasri*

Dept of Sericulture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

K. Uma

Dept of Sericulture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

Shankar S.M.

Dept. of Physics, Kongunadu College of Engineering and Technology, Trichy, Tamil Nadu (621 215), India

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266 1728316091 Biotica Research Today September (2024) Orchestrating Growth Cycles: The Plant Physiology that Fuels Speed Breeding Agriculture 427-431

To achieve food security, quick investments in crop improvement are required to increase their resistance for both biotic and abiotic threats while sustaining high-quality and optimal yields and this is the gap to be addressed by the concept of speed breeding. From carbon arc to LED lamp, the journey of speed breeding is empowered by the tools of plant physiological factors such as photosynthesis, respiration, flowering and crop phenology. The modifications in environmental growth factors not only allow reducing the seed to seed time interval but also combining with high throughput phenotyping, genome editing and transgenic pipelines. This literature is mainly focusing on the driving energy of speed breeding exploiting from the plant physiological phenomena.

Phenotyping, Photosynthesis, Plant Physiology, Speed Breeding https://doi.org/10.54083/BioResToday/6.9.2024/427-431 2024-09-12 Popular Article Data Ram Saini, Pramod Kumar, Pravin Prakash, Shashi Kumar Gupta and Ipsita Maiti

Data Ram Saini

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Pramod Kumar

Division of Plant Physiology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Pravin Prakash

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Shashi Kumar Gupta*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi (221 005), India

Ipsita Maiti

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

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267 1728316701 Biotica Research Today September (2024) Drones in Vegetable Farming: Precision Agriculture for the Future Agriculture 432-435

The rapid growth of the global population has sharply increased the demand for food, putting immense pressure on traditional farming system. Vegetable production, which is crucial for human nutrition, also presents considerable environmental challenges. To address this challenge, the use of drones or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in agriculture is needed. By utilizing drones for tasks like applying water and pesticides more precisely, farmers can achieve more sustainable and efficient vegetable production. Drones are becoming essential in modern vegetable farming, because they help farmers monitor the health of crops, manage weeds and apply water and pesticides more efficiently. The article underscores the significant potential of drone technology to improve both the sustainability and efficiency of vegetable crop production, making it a vital tool in modern agriculture.

Drone, UAV, Vegetables, VTOL NIL 2024-09-14 Popular Article Kavita Dev, Riya Rani and Manisha Thakur

Kavita Dev*

Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 001), India

Riya Rani

Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 001), India

Manisha Thakur

Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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268 1728317072 Biotica Research Today September (2024) Microbial Bio-Composting as a Sustainable Approach to Biodegradable Waste Management: A Framework for Environmental Conservation Agriculture 436-439

There are several issues in the solid waste management sectors in India because of growing population and fast urbanization, besides poor infrastructure. Inadequate waste disposal in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) poses great danger to the environment and the health of the people, thus categorizing this environmental concern as a hot potato. Organic waste management can be enhanced through microbial bio-composting because a large amount of waste found in IHR is biodegradable. This literature investigates the practice of microbially assisted composting of food waste within a biocomposting facility. This review covers the benefits of this innovative waste treatment technique and particularly draws attention to existing problems with wider adoption of this technology in rural or ecologically sensitive areas. Due to its potential of improving soil health minimizing landfill requirements and curtailing GHG emissions MBCT is one of the waste management strategies that is required for the sustainable development of the Indian heterogeneous and complex environment.

Biodegradable waste, Environmental sustainability, Microbial bio-composting, Solid waste management NIL 2024-09-17 Popular Article S. Arul Diana Christie

S. Arul Diana Christie*

Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts and Science for Women, New Sidhapudhur, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 044), India

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269 1728317444 Biotica Research Today September (2024) Biosensors: A Living Analytic Agriculture 440-444

The diverse applications of biosensors highlight their critical importance across various fields such as biotechnology, medicine, agriculture and fisheries. This page delves into the different models and functionalities of these versatile devices, illustrating how their operational profiles enable a broad spectrum of uses. Each component is examined in detail, contributing to the overall understanding of their working principles. Biosensors, which can be composed of microorganisms, polymers or nanomaterials, offer numerous potential applications. To develop biosensors with an inclusive range of uses, it is crucial to employ diverse design methodologies. By exploring this article, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of living sensors and be equipped to think critically about their applications.

Applications, Bio-receptor, Biosensor, Transducer NIL 2024-09-20 Popular Article Khusbu Samal, Narendra Kumar Maurya, Khoob Singh and Shiwam Dubey

Khusbu Samal*

Dept. of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

Narendra Kumar Maurya

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

Khoob Singh

Dept. of Fish Resource Management, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

Shiwam Dubey

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

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270 1729052437 Biotica Research Today Association Mapping in Plants Agriculture 01-04

The genesis of Association mapping dates back to the 19th century, when Mendel provided proof to the scientific world that phenotypes are governed by ‘particles’ which are hereditary in nature. However, the foundation for association mapping was laid by Robins in the 20th century, when he proposed the ‘association theory’ between di-allelic loci.

Association, Genetic loci, Mapping, Phenotypic traits NIL 2023-01-01 Popular Article S. Geethanjali, V. Sivakumar, P. Meenakshisundaram and M. Dhandapani

S. Geethanjali

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V. Sivakumar*

Dept. of Fruit Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

P. Meenakshisundaram

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Dhandapani

Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Aduthurai, Tamil Nadu (612 101), India

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271 1729053674 Biotica Research Today Genomic Selection: A Way Forward for Crop Improvement Agriculture 05-07

Since the origination of theory and conceptual under pinning for Genomic selection (GS), numerous studies have been conducted to determine how effectively genomic selection may be used to improve crops. However, marker-assisted selection (MAS) has demonstrated its promise for improving qualitative attributes that are governed by a small number of genes that have a significant impact. Its contribution to the improvement of quantitative traits which are complex in nature and controlled by a number of small-effect genes is modest. In this context, GS make use of genomic-estimated breeding values of individuals generated from genome-wide markers to select candidates for the upcoming breeding cycle for enhancing quantitative traits. In order to improve genetic gain, decrease breeding time and costs, and speed up the breeding process, genomic selection (GS), a potential molecular breeding approach, has been widely used and tested for plant breeding. The success of GS-enabled breeding operations depends on improved statistical models that use genetic data to increase prediction accuracy.

Breeding value, Genomic selection, MAS, Molecular breeding NIL 2023-01-01 Popular Article Parul Gupta and Mohit Sharma

Parul Gupta*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

Mohit Sharma

Division of Genetics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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272 1729054365 Biotica Research Today Large Scale Vermi-Composting Systems Agriculture 08-09

There are two methods of large scale vermi-composting systems. One is wind row system and another is continuous flow system. By adopting the continuous flow through system reactor technology, several problems can be solved, at the same time to process more material faster. It offers a unique blend of technical, economic and environmental benefits (Minimal dust, odour and noise emissions; reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to landfill). The windrow system took eight months (180 days) to a year to make high-quality castings. Nearly 40 to 60 days are required by the reactor to process material. The flow through reactor has the potential to revolutionize the production of vermicasting.

Continuous flow system, Vermicasting, Vermicomposting systems, Windrow system NIL 2023-01-02 Popular Article C. Prabakaran

C. Prabakaran*

Dept. of Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tiruchcirapalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

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273 1729057636 Biotica Research Today Green Approaches for Freshwater Eutrophication Management Agriculture 25-28

Phosphorus (P) plays an important role in the inland aquatic ecosystems. However, inland aquatic ecosystems like, wetlands, reservoirs, and rivers are gradually accumulating this element and as a consequence eutrophication becomes a global problem. Eutrophication causes excessive algal growth, disrupting the composition and distribution of aquatic flora and fauna, disturbing the aquatic food web and also degrading the recreational area. Therefore, the management of eutrophication is necessary for the restoration of freshwater aquatic bodies. Conventional treatments like chemical treatments lead to the addition of external chemicals to the ecosystem. Hence, technologies, for rapidly reducing phosphorus content or influx and reduction in organic matter are necessary to overcome the problem of eutrophication in long term. Green techniques are also referred to as an environmentally friendly solution to this problem. Various green techniques like phytoremediation, microbial remediation, and the use of agricultural waste as green adsorbent for remediation may be the alternative options for P mitigation in freshwater ecosystems.

Eutrophication management, Green technologies, Phyto-remediation, Water quality NIL 2023-01-09 Popular Article Jesna P.K., Ajoy Saha and B.K. Das

Jesna P.K.

Regional Centre of ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 089), India

Ajoy Saha*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

B.K. Das

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

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274 1729058310 Biotica Research Today Ornamental Plants in Aromatherapy Agriculture 29-31

Aromatherapy is one of the most actively growing forms of alternative medicines that use essential oils and aromatic plant compounds combined with massage. Aromatherapy using essential oils can help the human to relieve from stress and anxiety symptoms. Essential oil extracted from aromatic plants were used in this therapy. Mostly medicinal and aromatic plants imparts aromatic properties, in addition, some ornamentals contributes to fragrance. Oil extracted from aromatic plants like geranium, lemon grass, palmarosa, sandal wood, Thyme, Davana, Vetiver, Rosemary has good market value and also explored in various cosmetic and herbal industries. Apart from that, ornamental plants which possess good fragrance also exploited for its unique value. Jasmine, Rose, Lavender, Tuberose, etc., are some of the flowering ornamentals with beautiful flowers and fragrance.

Aromatherapy, Essential oil, Jasmine, Ornamental plants NIL 2023-01-10 Popular Article Naveena N. and Phani Kumar J.

Naveena N.*

Dept. of Horticulture, Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Pollachi, (Affiliated to Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Tamil Nadu (642 103), India

Phani Kumar J.

Horticultural Research Station, Lam, Guntur, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Andhra Pradesh (522 034), India

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275 1729059188 Biotica Research Today Biofertilizers and Its Role in Ecorestoration: An Overview Agriculture 32-36

Plant nutrients are very important for the proper and healthy production of food. Today, the soil management practices are totally dependent on the chemical-based fertilizer, which not only affect the humans and the other organisms but also causes damage to the ecosystem or to the environment. Thus, biofertilizer has been discovered or identified as a better alternative for increasing the productivity of the crop. The inoculation of this type of fertilizer over a field makes the soil fertile and thus makes it suitable for sustainable farming. The discovery of the beneficial microorganisms as biological inoculants has increased the potential of the agriculture sector to grow a good productive crop. Thus, the use of biofertilizers increases the soil fertility, crop production, tolerance to all types of stresses, etc.

Biofertilizer, INM, Nutrient management, Soil fertility NIL 2023-01-12 Review Articles Nishtha Sha, Supriya Pandey and Sumit Rai

Nishtha Sha

G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (GBPNIHE), Kosi-Katamal, Almora, Uttarakhand (263 643), India

Supriya Pandey

G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (GBPNIHE), Kosi-Katamal, Almora, Uttarakhand (263 643), India

Sumit Rai*

G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (GBPNIHE), Kosi-Katamal, Almora, Uttarakhand (263 643), India

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276 1729059952 Biotica Research Today Mechanism of Silver Nanoparticles against Plant Diseases Agriculture 37-38

Agricultural productions are reduced by every year due to plant diseases is one of the reason. Management of plant diseases by using chemicals it is harmful to environment. So, using of nanoparticles against crop diseases protection offers a great promise in the management of insects and pathogens. Nanoparticles are used by famers to control many plant pathogenic diseases such as fungi, bacterial and viral diseases. Silver (Ag) nanomaterials are commonly used to manage plant diseases, because it has high toxicity and used as antimicrobial agent against various plant pathogens. In this article here discussed by mode of action and mechanism of silver nanoparticles against plant pathogens.

Antimicrobial agent, Nanoparticles, Plant pathogens, Silver NIL 2023-01-13 Popular Article Yuvarani R., Anupriya D., Elavarasi P. and Soban Babu G.

Yuvarani R.*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Adhiparaskathi Agricultural College, Ranipet, Tamil Nadu (632 506), India

Anupriya D.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Palar Agricultural College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu (635 805), India

Elavarasi P.

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Adhiparaskathi Agricultural College, Ranipet, Tamil Nadu (632 506), India  

Soban Babu G.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Thanthai Rover Institute of Agriculture and Rural Development, Perambalur, Tamil Nadu (621 115), India

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277 1729061069 Biotica Research Today Significance and Conservation of Grassland Ecosystem in Arid and Semi-Arid Regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat Agriculture 43-44

Nearly 10% of India's landmass is made up of dry desert, mostly in Rajasthan and Gujarat. These dry regions cover arid and semi-arid grasslands which are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, some which are already endemic and threatened. It provides food and fodder to livestock and livelihoods sustaining in these regions. Not only are these biomes important for the wildlife, but also for the vast bulk of the rural agro pastoralist people. Grasslands play a vital role in providing essential ecosystem services which in turn allows to conserve soil and water biodiversity. Continuous awareness and thorough conservation programmes are needed to protect the grassland biome from further habitat destruction and degradation of the grassland ecosystem.

Conservation, Fauna, Flora, Grassland ecosystem NIl 2023-01-15 Popular Article Varsha Giri, Naveen Kumar Bohra, Vipula Vyas, Tanmaya Kumar Bhoi and Apurva Yadav

Varsha Giri*

Silviculture and Forest Management Division, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (342 005), India

Naveen Kumar Bohra

Silviculture and Forest Management Division, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (342 005), India

Vipula Vyas

Forest Protection Division, Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (342 005), India

Tanmaya Kumar Bhoi

Forest Protection Division, Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (342 005), India

Apurva Yadav

Silviculture and Forest Management Division, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (342 005), India

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278 1729068604 Biotica Research Today Multifarious Uses of Sunflower Agriculture 56-58

Sunflower is considered as important crop based on its nutritional and medicinal value. Due to its beneficial health effects, sunflower has been recognized as nutracautical. The oil extracted from sunflower is known to be a potential source of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour and antioxidants and also have industrial values. Sunflower seeds, meal and cake could be a promising human diet and livestock feed. Exploitation of sunflower seed products with high protein content has fond applicable in food processing, various pharmaceutical and agriculture.

Health benefits, Nutritional, Oil, Sunflower NIL 2023-01-20 Popular Article E. Umarani, S. Sridevi, A. Saritha, D. Swetha and N. Sainath

E. Umarani*

Agricultural Research Station (PJTSAU), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

S. Sridevi

Agricultural Research Station (PJTSAU), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

A. Saritha

Agricultural Research Station (PJTSAU), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

D. Swetha

Agricultural Research Station (PJTSAU), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

N. Sainath

Agricultural Research Station (PJTSAU), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

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279 1729069726 Biotica Research Today Fish Protein Hydrolysate (FPH): Excellent Protein Source for Aquafeeds Agriculture 59-61

Fish are maintained at high densities in intensive farming, which may raise stress and contribute to disease susceptibility and economic losses. As a result, some of the objectives for sustainable aquaculture development include effective feeding techniques that incorporate health-promoting components such as proteins hydrolysates and bioactive peptides that can boost fish defense systems and achieve higher growth. Every year, the fish processing industries create and discard a considerable volume of the trash, estimated to be up to 60% of collected biomass. With the addition of different proteolytic enzymes, this waste may be transformed into value-added products such as fish protein hydrolysate (FPH). FPH can enhance fish development, feed utilization, immune system function, and disease resistance when used moderate aquafeeds. FPH production offers superior functions that are highly desired and is aimed at more precise molecular weight ranges. The use of processing fish waste is also highlighted, as well as the potential limits of employing FPH and future research opportunities.

Aquaculture, Feed, Feed Attractant, Fish Protein Hydrolysate (FPH) NIL 2023-01-21 Popular Article Patekar Prakash, Banlam J. Marbaniang, Satheesh M. and R.S. Baraya

Patekar Prakash*

Fish Nutrition, Biochemistry and Physiology Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Banlam J. Marbaniang

Division of Aquaculture, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Satheesh M.

Fish Nutrition, Biochemistry and Physiology Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

R.S. Baraya

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, KUFOS, Kerala (682 506), India

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280 1729077733 Biotica Research Today Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) for Mapping of Study Areas Agriculture 70-72

Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) is a popular and user-friendly open-source software, licensed under General Public License (GNU) and works on cross-platforms like Windows, Linux, Mac and Android versions. It is one of the most commercial Geographic Information System (GIS) software developed for capturing, editing, displaying and analyzing spatial data. QGIS performs different types of spatial analysis such as terrain analysis, hydrological analysis, thematic mapping, land cover mapping etc. by employing vector and raster data. The current article focused on how QGIS can be used and ways to get base maps using DIVA-GIS and the Quick Map Services tool (QMS) for georeferencing the area under study.

DIVA-GIS, Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS), Research, Thematic Mapping NIL 2023-01-25 Popular Article Elakkiya N. and Sankarganesh E.

Elakkiya N.*

Dept. of Agricultural Statistics, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur, West Bengal (741 252), India

Sankarganesh E.

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur, West Bengal (741 252), India

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281 1729078441 Biotica Research Today Hoverfly: A Prominent Predator and Pollinator in the World Agriculture 73-76

Hoverfly is a prominent insect, work as both predator and pollinator in the eco-system of the world. Its larvae initially attack on aphid colonies and certain other insect-pests. The larvae of hoverflies are crucial natural enemy of pests, such as aphids, scales, thrips and some caterpillars. Aphid populations may be reduced by 70% to 100% when hoverfly larvae populations are enormous. Hoverflies that feed on aphids are recognized as promising agents for use in biocontrol agent because aphids alone cause tens of millions of dollars in damage to crops in the world each year. Several species of hoverflies resemble bees or wasps in appearance. The world’s 2.5 million types of blooming plants are pollinated by 1,00,000-2,00,000 different animal species. Around 1,500 species of birds and mammals visit flowers and may disseminate pollen between them. However, insects are majority of these pollinators.

Aphid, Hoverfly, Pollinator, Predator NIL 2023-01-26 Popular Article Arun Kumar, Pawan Kumar, Pramod Kumar Mishra, Ashutosh Singh Aman and Naval Datt

Arun Kumar*

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Pawan Kumar

Dept. of Entomology, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh (273 009), India

Pramod Kumar Mishra

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Ashutosh Singh Aman

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India  

Naval Datt

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

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282 1729079115 Biotica Research Today Artificial Jewellery: A Small Scale Enterprise and Consumer Choice in India Agriculture 77-80

Artificial jewellery as an enterprise in India is highly unorganized but still it has a huge potential simply because of the customers it caters to i.e., women. Rising prices of gold are forcing women to hold their desires back. Hence, there is an increasing trend towards artificial jewellery. There has been a growth in demand for artificial or imitation jewellery by 85% in India. India’s artificial or imitation jewellery business is seen to be one among the largest in the world which causes GDP at 5.9% in the Indian economy. It is projected to grow by rises and boundaries in the future. The jewellery market is now turning towards online selling gradually, expecting the customer’s inclination towards online shopping. Although the online jewellery market is not yet well-known, the advantages it offers will undoubtedly encourage jewellers to open an online store sooner or later.

Artificial jewellery, Business models, Enterprise, Women NIL 2023-01-27 Popular Article Rupanagudi Unesha Fareq and Seema Kwatra

Rupanagudi Unesha Fareq*

Dept. of Family Resource Management, College of Home Science, GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

Seema Kwatra

Dept. of Family Resource Management, College of Home Science, GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

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283 1729079555 Biotica Research Today Integrated Management of Soil Dwelling Pests of Wheat Crop Agriculture 81-83

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the second most important staple food crop and India is the second-largest wheat producer and consumer in all over the world, which provides nutrition to millions of populations. Agriculture sector contributes 18.8% to GDP and plays an important role in the Indian economy. In 2021-22, 106.84 million tonnes of wheat has been produced. Wheat production has been reduced in 2021-22 compare to previous year 2020-21, due to the biotic and abiotic factors. Wheat crop is affected by several pest such as Aphid, Termites, Wheat weevil, White grubs, Grasshopper, Gujhia weevil, Hessian fly, Flea beetles, Armyworm, pink stem borer and rodents are the major pests of wheat in India. the stored grain pests are also causing significant losses in wheat. In this literature two soil dwelling pest of wheat such as termites and white grubs has been described along with their effective management approaches.

GDP, Termites, Wheat crop, White grubs NIL 2023-01-27 Popular Article Madan Mohan Bajpeyi, Arun Kumar, Ashutosh Singh Aman and Dhananjay Kushwaha

Madan Mohan Bajpeyi*

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Arun Kumar

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Ashutosh Singh Aman

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Dhananjay Kushwaha

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

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284 1729081302 Biotica Research Today Insecticidal Resistance Management Strategy of South American Tomato Pinworm, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) Agriculture 93-95

The South American tomato pinworm, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) is difficult to manage this invasive pest. In particular in open field cultivation systems, insecticide treatment is still the most popular management strategy. As a result, both in South America and in Europe, pesticide resistance to several chemical types of insecticides has been documented. According to the chemical class, changed target-site sensitivity and/or increased detoxification are the key mechanisms causing the unusually quick development of pesticide resistance in this species. Low frequency resistance alleles are particularly concerning against newer chemistries since they have a propensity to spread along with invasions, making tomato pinworm very challenging to eradicate. To keep tomato pinworm infestations below economic damage thresholds and ensure sustainable yields, it is crucial to undertake integrated control programmes and suitable resistance management measures as part of such programmes.

Insecticide detoxification, Resistance mechanism, Resistance management, Tomato pinworm NIL 2023-01-28 Popular Article Vinod Kumar Dubey, Sanjay Kumar Sahoo, B. Sujatha and Sanhita Chowdhury

Vinod Kumar Dubey*

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Sanjay Kumar Sahoo

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

B. Sujatha

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Sanhita Chowdhury

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

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285 1729085044 Biotica Research Today Pre-Breeding: A Link between Gene Pool and Crop Improvement Agriculture 113-115

Plant breeding focuses on the genetic enhancement of the plants which is hampering the limited availability of germplasm resources. Pre-breeding, being a multi-disciplinary approach, provides a special opportunity to lessen this genetic vulnerability and develop the new base population for enhanced crops and varieties, by introducing desirable genes from wild germplasm to agronomically suitable backgrounds. It has emphasized on the improvement of the core gene pool of several crops including rice, wheat, barley, chickpea and groundnut. Linkage drag poses a difficulty in pre-breeding that could be reduced using genomic approaches. The major requirements, objectives and approaches have been discussed in the following article.

Gene pool, Genomic-assisted Plant breeding, Linkage drag, Pre-breeding NIL 2023-01-31 Popular Article Karuna, Navreet Kaur Rai and Eashan Mukherjee

Karuna*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Navreet Kaur Rai

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Eashan Mukherjee

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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286 1729085403 Biotica Research Today Challenges of IPM Adoption in India Agriculture 116-118

It is increasingly understood that rising agricultural pesticide use has negative effects on both human and environmental health. A substitute for the traditional pest management method is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). IPM can increase agricultural profitability by lowering the cost of pest control, and it also ensures fair, secure, sufficient, and consistent flows of both food and ecosystem services. In India, IPM has mostly remained an intellectual activity and hasn't had much of an impact on the farming community in terms of application or adoption. Lack of knowledge among farmers is a major concern as it contributes to their reluctance to employ IPM technology. The worldwide accepted strategy for pest management is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Actually, it's often referred to as "integrated pesticide management." Here, we highlighted about the difficulties in true advancement and interpretation of the IPM method to achieve during its deployment and expansion.

Farmers, Insect-pest, Management strategy, Pesticide NIL 2023-01-31 Popular Article Sanhita Chowdhury, Sanjay Kumar Sahoo, B. Sujatha and Vinod Kumar Dubey

Sanhita Chowdhury*

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Sanjay Kumar Sahoo

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

B. Sujatha

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Vinod Kumar Dubey

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

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287 1729223824 Biotica Research Today Ecoliteracy: The Only Way to Sustainable Human Society Agriculture 130-132

Nature and human beings have a special relationship with mother Earth that nurtures us to complete our life cycle. In the Anthropocene, the increasing population, urbanization, industrialization and modernization of human society have increased the demand on the natural resources for survival and prosperity. Now the time arises where the people need to have knowledge of what types of environmental problems we are facing. Each one of us should be aware of the pressure on our planet and to overcome it. Optimum use of resources today and for the future generation in a sustainable manner is very essential today. Thus, the ecoliteracy helps in instilling respect, a sense of belonging; sharpen our scientific temper and awareness of living life in harmonious balance.

Ecoliteracy, Environmental awareness, Human society, Sustainability NIL 2023-02-05 Popular Article Bhardwaj, S.K., B. Priyanka and Tanvi Kapoor

Bhardwaj, S.K.*

Dept. of Environmental Science, Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

B. Priyanka

Dept. of Environmental Science, Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Tanvi Kapoor

Dept. of Environmental Science, Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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288 1729226825 Biotica Research Today Phycoremediation: Concept and Application Agriculture 140-142

The term "use of algae to treat wastes or wastewaters" is phycoremediation. Both marine macroalgae such as seaweeds and microalgae are included in the category of algae. The algae are widely dispersed throughout the planet and have evolved to fit a variety of settings. As a result, the algae have grown very tolerant to various environmental factors, including various level of aquatic nutrient content. Due to this benefit, algae have been widely used in the bioremediation of aquatic pollutants, producing cleansed waters as well as useful biomass that may be used as feedstock for a variety of valuable goods, including food, feed, fertilizer, pharmaceuticals, and more recently, biofuel. Additionally, through a variety of mechanisms, including biosorption, bioconcentration, biotransformation, and volatilization, microalgae can remove environmental toxins such as heavy metals, hydrocarbons, and pesticides.

Bioremediation, Microalgae, Phycoremediation, Phytoremediation NIL 2023-02-08 Popular Article Narendra Kumar Maurya, Shivakumar M., Bhooleshwari and Durgesh Kumar Verma

Narendra Kumar Maurya*

College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

Shivakumar M.

College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

Bhooleshwari

College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

Durgesh Kumar Verma

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 002), India

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289 1729227328 Biotica Research Today Strigolactone: A Novel Class of Plant Hormone with Immense Possibilities Agriculture 143-145

Strigolactones are a group of chemical compounds produced in plant roots. Due to their mechanism of action, these molecules have been classified as plant hormones. Strigolactones (SLs) are carotenoid-derived signaling molecules that primarily instigate the germination of root-parasitic plants and symbiotic fungi. Hence, the SLs act as the chemical identifier for the parasites and arbuscular fungi to detect their host plants. Further studies have identified many diverse functions of SLs in the physiology and development of plants. Due to their multiple roles, these hormones are suitable targets for sustainable agricultural applications. Besides, in the last few years, studies have provided clues about some unique natures of SLs in therapeutics, e.g., anti-cancer agents, glucose metabolism, etc. These functions of SL can also potentially be utilized in diagnostics and medication in near future.

Hormone, Plant stress, Strigolactone, Sustainable agriculture NIL 2023-02-09 Popular Article Proharsha Dey, Soumyabroto Karmakar and Anirban Bhar

Proharsha Dey

Dept. of Botany (Postgraduate), Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Rahara, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 118), India

Soumyabroto Karmakar

Dept. of Botany (Postgraduate), Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Rahara, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 118), India

Anirban Bhar*

Dept. of Botany (Postgraduate), Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Rahara, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 118), India

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290 1729227756 Biotica Research Today Bacterial Bioagents: Mode of Action and Application Methods for Crop Disease Management Agriculture 146-148

Chemicals used for the management of crop diseases have been shown to be toxic to non-target organisms and may be toxic to humans. Much of modern research in plant pathology aims at finding other environmentally friendly means including use of bioagents for control of plant diseases. A number of bioagents including bacteria of the genera Pseudomonas, Bacillus, and Streptomyces are used for disease suppression. The mechanisms by which bioagents affect the pathogen populations are: (1) direct parasitism or lysis and death of the pathogen, (2) competition with the pathogen for food, (3) direct toxic effects on the pathogen by antibiotic substances released by the antagonist, and (4) indirect toxic effects on the pathogen by volatile substances, such as ethylene, released by the metabolic activities of the antagonist. The bacterial bioagents may be applied through various means like seed treatment, soil amendment, foliar spray etc. for management of crop diseases.

Antibiosis, Bacterial bioagents, Pseudomonas, Streptomyces NIL 2023-02-10 Popular Article Durga Prasad, R.P. Singh and Ummed Singh

Durga Prasad*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Baytu, Agriculture University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (344 034), India

R.P. Singh

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, West Champaran-II, Dr RPCAU, Pusa, Samatipur, Bihar (845 455), India

Ummed Singh

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Baytu, Agriculture University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (344 034), India

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291 1729228503 Biotica Research Today Mobile Application: A Transformation in Livestock Farming Agriculture 149-152

Animal Husbandry plays a major role in providing veterinary health care and improving the genetic production potentialities of livestock and poultry reared in the country. Animal Husbandry is the root base of rural economy. In these days, mobile applications are potential digital tools which can be effectively utilized to reach Animal Husbandry information to a large number of farmers within a short period of time. They can be used to enhance farm income and productivity through providing correct information, better input and farm management, easy marketing and linkage with government agency for policy support to farmer etc. The documentation of these mobile apps and evaluating their content and features is of immense importance for the farmers as it will provide guidance in choosing suitable app for getting need based reliable information for livestock farming. This will also assist the mobile app developers in designing new app or in modifying and improving their exiting mobile apps.

Animal Husbandry, Livestock, Mobile Application, Veterinary NIl 2023-02-11 Popular Article C.R. Monikha

C.R. Monikha

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu (627 852), India

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292 1729228766 Biotica Research Today Role of Phytohormones in Plants Agriculture 153-155

Phytohormones are organic compounds, other than nutrients and vitamins, which are produced naturally in plants, synthesized in one part and usually translocated to other part where in very small quantity it affects the growth and other physiological function of the plant. These are classified into two types namely plant growth promoters (Auxins, Gibberellins and Cytokinins) and plant growth inhibitors (Ethylene and Abscisic acid). Certain compounds synthesized artificially also cause many physiological responses common to phytohormones. But the more recent ones such as brassinosteroids and jasmonates cannot be excluded from PGRs due to their significant role in important functions of plants. It is obvious that changes in the level of endogenous hormones due to biotic and abiotic stress alter the crop growth and any sort of manipulation including exogenous application of growth substances would help for yield improvement or at least sustenance of the crop.

Brassinosteroids, Inhibitors, Phytohormones, Promoters NIL 2023-02-12 Popular Article Reva Jaryal and Divesh Thakur

Reva Jaryal*

Dept. of Seed Science and Technology, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Divesh Thakur

Dept. of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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293 1729231247 Biotica Research Today Trichoderma: Mode of Action and Application Methods for Crop Disease Management Agriculture 166-171

Indiscriminate use of fungicides in agriculture has done great harm to the environment including humans. Biological control is now being considered as the key method of disease control in view of healthy ecosystem. Biological control is the use of bioagents to suppress the capacity and population of pathogen. It is particularly desirable because the tactic is environmentally safe, energy self-sufficient, cost-effective, sustainable, and can be readily incorporated into integrated disease management programs. Most biological control methods aim at improving the resistance of the host or favoring microorganisms antagonistic to the pathogen. Bioagents destroy or suppress the pathogen through antagonism i.e., antibiosis, competition, parasitism and exploitation. Trichoderma spp. serves as one of the best bioagents and it found to be effective against a wide range of soil, seed and air borne pathogens without damaging the environment.

Antibiosis, Biological control, Competition, Trichoderma NIL 2023-02-16 Popular Article Durga Prasad, Ummed Singh and R.P. Singh

Durga Prasad*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Baytu, Agriculture University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (344 034), India

Ummed Singh

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, College of Agriculture, Baytu, Agriculture University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (344 034), India

R.P. Singh

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, West Champaran-II, Dr RPCAU, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (845 455), India

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294 1729233424 Biotica Research Today Role of Secondary Metabolites in Drought Tolerance in Crops Agriculture 178-179

Crops plants are subjected to a wide range of abiotic stresses in the form of heat, drought, soil salinity, acidity and water moisture stresses out of which drought stress severely affects crop productivity leading to significant yield loss. Exposure to drought stress triggers a cascade of cell signaling reactions in the plants affecting homeostasis and thereby leading to the production of an array of stress induced secondary metabolites. Intracellularly upregulated biosynthesis, osmotic regulations, metabolic shifts culminating to downstream oxidative stress scavenging are observed. Consequent morpho-physiological manifestations in form of stomatal guard cell regulations, deeper root growth, extracellular cuticle development take place. Hence the present article discusses the role of secondary phyto-chemicals and the underlying genetic factors involved in combating impact of drought stress on crops.

Crop productivity, Drought stress, Metabolic shift, Secondary metabolites NIL 2023-02-19 Popular Article Eashan Mukherjee, Karuna and Navreet Kaur Rai

Eashan Mukherjee*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Karuna

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Navreet Kaur Rai

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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295 1729234889 Biotica Research Today Aquaponics: An Integrated Farming System for Food Security Horticulture 183-185

Aquaponic farming systems find better ways for various agricultural industries. This farming system is not dependent on soil and requires no pesticides during farming. The system is suitable for cultivation throughout the year and can produce high-yield, good-quality vegetables. Vegetables using this technique grow much faster than conventional farming techniques. Aquaponics occurs in a closed system and does not release waste into streams. Compared to conventional farming using the same space, the system produces a 30% more yield. The system requires less water than conventional farming.

Aquaponics, Fish, Integrated, Plants NIL 2023-02-21 Popular Article Aitwar Vaijnath and Gurphale Nikita

Aitwar Vaijnath*

Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka (575 002), India

Gurphale Nikita

Late Shri Punaram Nishad College of Fisheries, Kawardha, (Dau Shri Vasudev Chandrakar Kamdhenu Vishwavidyalaya, Durg), Chhattisgarh (491 995), India

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296 1729235676 Biotica Research Today Integrated Pest Management for Maize Fall Army Worm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) Agriculture 186-188

Maize (Zea mays) is a tropical cereal crop widely cultivated all over the world. Its production was adversely affected by an invasive pest, fall army worm, Spodoptera frugiperda. The young larva disrupts the photosynthetic system while the older larva affects the leaves and cob, thereby reducing the harvest quality and yield of the crop. This pest demands a meticulous and stepwise plan for its management by adopting IPM methods, viz., cultural, physical, mechanical, biological, and chemical methods.

Fall Army Worm, Integrated Pest Management, Maize, Spodoptera frugiperda NIL 2023-02-22 Popular Article R.R. Nandhakumar and A. Abinesh

R.R. Nandhakumar*

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 758), India

A. Abinesh

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 758), India

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297 1729236418 Biotica Research Today Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Guava Fruit Fly Agriculture 194-195

Guava, Psidium guajava L., is the prime fruit of India and is cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions. in which there are two important fruit flies, Bactrocera dorsalis and Bactrocera diversus, may destroy up to 100% of the fruits and affect both the quantity and quality of the fruits. Because of their polyphagous, multivoltine, highly mobile, and their immature stages are protected inside the fruits, the fruit fly extremely difficult to manage. To manage the fruit flies, the application of insecticides will disrupt the agroecosystem. As a result, the potential of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach in controlling these flies through male annihilation and bait application techniques is eco-friendly and novel.

Fruit flies, Guava, IPM, Strategies NIL 2023-02-24 Popular Article S. Deepak, C. Gershon and A. Esakki Siva

S. Deepak

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 758), India

C. Gershon*

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 758), India

A. Esakki Siva

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 758), India

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298 1729263200 Biotica Research Today Entomopathogenic Nematodes: Mode of Action and Application Methods Agriculture 199-203

Entomopathogenic nematodes are obligate parasites of insects and are used as biological control agents of economically important insect pests. They occur naturally in soil environments and locate their host in response to carbon dioxide, vibration and other chemical cues. Synthetic chemical pesticides are routinely employed to manage insect pests, but they have a negative influence on our environment and the systems of non-targeted beneficial organisms, including humans. Entomopathogenic nematodesas bio-pesticides are a safe, natural, and cost-effective alternative to replace the hazardous chemical pesticides. Due to a lack of innovative advancements in research and policies in India, there are currently few entomopathogenic formulations commercially available, which are insufficient to fulfil farmer demand. Comparatively synthetic chemical pesticides, entomopathogen production and usage are very minimal. This article covers different entomopathogenic nematodes, their mode of action and application methods for management of economically important insect-pests in an eco-friendly manner.

Biological control, Entomopathogenic nematodes, EPNs, Mode of action NIL 2023-02-26 Popular Article Durga Prasad and R.P. Singh

Durga Prasad

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Baytu, Agriculture University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (344 034), India

R.P. Singh*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, West Champaran-II, Dr RPCAU, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (845 455), India

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299 1729263565 Biotica Research Today Success Story on Backyard Aseel Poultry Rearing under SBGF Programme Agriculture 204-206

Backyard poultry with native breeds is easy to manage, less risky and can generate better incomes, for the poor households. It has the potential to alleviate rural poverty, eradicate malnutrition and create employment opportunities too. With a little external support from KVK Dharmapuri under Livelihood support and nutritional and security of tribal women through improved backyard poultry rearing in Dharmapuri districtby initiating small farm enterprises, the tribal farming communities in Dharmapuri district have shown that it is possible to improve health and livelihoods.

Backyard, Poultry, Rearing, Success NIL 2023-02-27 Success story R. Thangadurai, C. Sivakumar, M. Vijayakumar and M.A. Vennila

R. Thangadurai*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

C. Sivakumar

Research Station, Paiyur, Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu (635 112), India

M. Vijayakumar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Nilgiris District, Tamil Nadu (643 101), India

M.A. Vennila

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

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300 1729321534 Innovative Farming July-September (2021) Famines: Disasters and Indian Agriculture Agriculture 97-110

Food production is still the major goal of Indian Agriculture which is largely controlled by the Monsoons. Therefore, famines are closely associated with agriculture in India. In Bengal (1943), the Great Famine has had a significant impact on the subcontinent’s socioeconomic circumstances, which has led to marked changes to the lives of those living there. In addition, the socioeconomic landscape of the peninsula has been impacted by famines in a few other states. This review investigates the background of the catastrophic events in the peninsula of South Asia, with a focus on the period of British colonization. Academic viewpoints are offered to the geo-socio-politico-economical circumstances with the incidence of famines in the region. The present paper is an effort to investigate the causes, implications and perspectives of states of hunger during 18-20th century in India and Bangladesh. The significance of government initiatives, financial variables and climate trends in intensifying food shortages are among the major themes. The paper also highlights the social and economic consequences of these events on the populations of both countries.

Disaster, Drought, Famine, Food shortage, Hunger, Indian agriculture NIL 2021-08-02 Review Articles Jai P. Rai

Jai P. Rai*

Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, RG South Campus, Barkachha, Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh (231 001), India

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301 1729321516 Biotica Research Today Conservation Challenges in Bleaching and Degradation of Coral Reefs Ecosystem Agriculture 214-216

The coral reefs that surround the world were created by millions of tiny coral polyps over thousands of years as a gift to humanity. Reefs provide food for people, resources for scientific research, and a wealth of leisure activities. Reefs require our care because we depend on them, thus we should definitely protect them for future generations. Algal cover and coral death can be adversely affected by nutrient enrichment of remaining coral bleaching due to temperature stress, grazers, algal colonization and most influencing in an imbalance between production and consumption will outcome in community structure changes.

Conservation, Coral Reefs, Degradation, Ecosystem NIL 2023-03-04 Popular Article Rajesh Jayaswal, Jeetendra Kumar, Absar Alam, K.B. Rajanna, Parul and Durgesh Kumar Verma

Rajesh Jayaswal*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 002), India

Jeetendra Kumar

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 002), India

Absar Alam

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 002), India

K.B. Rajanna

College of Fisheries, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Science University, Mangaluru, Karnataka (575 002), India

Parul

College of Fisheries, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Durgesh Kumar Verma

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 002), India

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302 1729323850 Biotica Research Today Blockchain Technology: A Boon to Indian Agriculture Agriculture 221-224

Blockchain technology is revolutionizing the Indian agricultural sector by providing a secure, transparent, and immutable platform to store data. This technology can be used to track and monitor agricultural products from farm to fork, reducing paperwork and decreasing costs. Moreover, it can help farmers get better prices for their produce by connecting them directly with buyers. Additionally, blockchain technology can enable farmers to access finance more easily by allowing them to create digital identities that can be used as collateral for loans. Blockchain Technology is an extremely promising technology that has the potential to reinvent agriculture by speeding up processes and delivering services, at a much lower cost. The possibilities offered by this technology are endless and have the potential to transform the Indian agricultural sector for the better.

Agriculture, Blockchain, Distributed Ledger Technology, Transparency NIL 2023-03-06 Popular Article Deepak Kumar Meena, Darshana Brahma, Rakesh Dawar, Samrath Lal Meena and R.S. Bana

Deepak Kumar Meena*

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Darshana Brahma

Division of Entomology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Rakesh Dawar

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Samrath Lal Meena

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

R.S. Bana

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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303 1729324809 Biotica Research Today Mutation Breeding: An Efficient Approach of Generating Genetic Variability and Developing New Variety in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) Agriculture 225-227

Mutation breeding is one of the fasted and efficient methods of generating genetic variability in crop plants. Several mutagens including chemical mutagens like EMS and physical mutagens like gamma radiation, fast neutrons, ultrasounds etc., have been frequently used in generation of mutant lines in crop plants. In sunflower also, mutation breeding has been successfully utilized not only in generating mutant lines but also has led to the development of mutant sunflower varieties which has been enlisted in mutant variety database (MVD). Along with phenotypic traits like plant height, number of seeds, seed weight, seed size, head diameter etc., the oil quantity and qualities can also be enhanced through mutation breeding. Therefore mutation breeding can be effectively utilized in sunflower as well as other crop improvement programmes.

Gamma irradiation, Mutant lines, Mutation breeding, Sunflower NIL 2023-03-07 Popular Article Karma L. Bhutia and Shiv Shankar Dash

Karma L. Bhutia*

Dept. of AB&MB, CBS&H, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar (848 125), India

Shiv Shankar Dash

Dept. of PBG, TCA-Dholi, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar (848 125), India

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304 1729325188 Biotica Research Today Immunostimulants as an Aquatic Animal Health Management Perspective Agriculture 228-231

The majority of medications, chemicals, and vaccinations are only partially effective, but immunostimulants overcomes these drawbacks. It can be found in both biological and synthetic forms. It is used in aquaculture as a prophylactic agent to prevent disease from occurring. It stimulates the host’s immune response and strengthens the immune system. It improves the survival and disease resistance of cultured organisms while also being cost effective. In this paper, we briefly reviewed about the immunostimulant’s perspectives in the fisheries sector, especially in larval rearing. This review sheds light on different immunostimulants categories, significance during rearing and their role in aquaculture.

Aquaculture, Disease management, Immune system, Immunostimulants NIL 2023-03-08 Popular Article Lavanya K. and Krishnaveni K.N.

Lavanya K.*

Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Krishnaveni K.N.

Directorate of Incubation and Vocational Training in Aquaculture, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Muttukadu, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 112), India

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305 1729343348 Biotica Research Today CRISPR/Cas: A New Horizon in Plant Breeding Agriculture 235-237

Over the past few decades, the human population has increased significantly, raising serious concerns about the challenge of feeding a constantly expanding population. In such circumstances, increasing agricultural output is essential for providing humankind with both food and nourishment. Furthermore, because to their high time and labour requirements, standard breeding techniques are insufficient to supply this need. CRISPR-Cas enters the field of molecular approaches as a result to offer an alternative to the traditional techniques in order to overcome these conditions. Base editing, knock out or knock in of desirable genes, fine tuning of several genes, promotion of antiviral defence, and alteration of various demanding biochemical pathways through this specific gene editing system has proven its ability to spread new wings for accelerating crop advancement in last few years. Since the last few years, CRISPR has been significant in the advancement of studies involving genome editing.

Breeding, CRISPR, Genetic modification, Genome editing NIL 2023-03-11 Popular Article Avadhoot B. Dharmadhikari and Aparna S.

Avadhoot B. Dharmadhikari*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

Aparna S.

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

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306 1729344201 Biotica Research Today Millet Production in India: Challenges and Opportunities Agriculture 238-241

Millet production in India is an important sector in the country’s agricultural sector. Millet production has been steadily increasing in India over the past few decades, driven by increasing demand for the crop due to its growing popularity as a health food. However, despite its potential, millet production in India is still facing numerous challenges that need to be addressed in order to ensure its sustained growth. Despite the various challenges faced by millet production in India, there are also several opportunities that can be explored in order to ensure its sustained growth. These include the adoption of improved farming and post-harvest technologies, the development of new marketing strategies and the promotion of millet consumption through awareness campaigns. Furthermore, the government can also play a key role in providing financial and technical assistance to smallholder farmers to help them increase their production and productivity.

Millets, Nutritional benefit, Production challenges, Production strategies NIL 2023-03-12 Popular Article Abhik Patra, R.P. Singh, M.S. Kundu, Arnab Kundu and Sayon Mukherjee

Abhik Patra*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

R.P. Singh

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

M.S. Kundu

Directorate of Extension Education, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Bihar (848 125), India

Arnab Kundu

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Lada, Samastipur, Bihar (848 209), India

Sayon Mukherjee

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

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307 1729346642 Biotica Research Today Advancements in Algae Culture through Raceway System Agriculture 245-247

In recent years, Raceway reactors are becoming popular because of its less cost of construction and mixing energy requirements. The raceways are considered as a most practicable technology for the microalgal energy generation. The raceway pond is 0.25-0.30 m deep closed recirculation canal and algal broth is continuously mixed by the paddlewheel. Paddlewheels are considered as the most efficient technique for creating flow in raceways. Dead zone development is eliminated by deflector baffles. Open raceway ponds are frequently employed for the commercial production of algal biomass. Even though the raceway method of production of algae is slightly costlier than other algal mass culture methods, it finds its place in production of biomass for Biodiesel, Lipids, Pigments and carotenoids, neutraceutical industries.

Algae, Algal biodiesel, Paddle wheel, Raceway Tank NIL 2023-03-14 Popular Article Keerthivarman G. Subramanian and Ezhilarasi V.

Keerthivarman G. Subramanian*

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

Ezhilarasi V.

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

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308 1729348212 Biotica Research Today Problematic Weed: Parthenium hysterophorus and Its Management Agriculture 248-250

Parthenium hysterophorus, also known as parthenium weed, is an invasive species that causes allergic reactions and are distributed to many different countries. Through imported pasture, grain seeds, and livestock feed, they were distributed. In both agricultural and non-agricultural areas, it is also spreading. The parthenium weed causes serious economic losses to people and their interests in numerous countries around the world in addition to endangering the health of people and animals, destroying pastures and crops, and reducing biodiversity in natural plant communities. Various management techniques had been used to reduce the harm this weed was causing. They are physical control, allelopathic effect, chemical control and biological control agents like fungi, stem-boring weevils, stem-galling moths, and leaf-eating beetles. Here, an integrated weed management approach is recommended for the effective management of parthenium weed. Along with the management practice, parthenium weed is utilized through compost preparation.

Allelopathic effect, Biological control, Integrated weed management, Parthenium weed NIL 2023-03-15 Popular Article Gnana Vinoba A.

Gnana Vinoba A.

Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Karunya Nagar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

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309 1729348694 Biotica Research Today Biochar: A Sustainable Solution for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions Agriculture 251-254

Biochar is a promising tool for climate-smart agriculture. It is a type of charcoal that is made from burning organic wastes in the absence of oxygen, which can help store carbon in the soil for thousands of years. When added to soil, biochar helps to improve soil quality, retain water, and sequester carbon, which can help to mitigate climate change. Biochar is also a renewable resource that can be made from agricultural waste products, which makes it a cost-effective and sustainable solution for farmers. By using biochar, farmers can increase their crop yields and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, making agriculture more sustainable and climate-friendly. This article explores the benefits of using biochar in agriculture and its potential to promote climate-smart farming practices.

Biochar, Carbon sequestration, Greenhouse gas emission, Production NIL 2023-03-16 Popular Article Fida Banu M.R.

Fida Banu M.R.

Dept. of Soil Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agriculture University, Kerala (695 522), India

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310 1729348928 Biotica Research Today Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture Agriculture 255-257

Artificial intelligence (AI) involves the construction of intelligent machines that can perform tasks that traditionally require human intelligence. To feed the rising world population, food production needs to increase. Data intensive methods in artificial intelligence can be used to increase agricultural productivity. AI could transform agricultural techniques such as soil management, water requirement analysis, precise modelling of fertiliser, pesticide, insecticide, and herbicide requirement, yield projection, and overall crop management for increasing the global agricultural productivity.

Artificial Intelligence, Crop management, Machine learning, Sensors NIL 2023-03-17 Popular Article Pramod A. Pimpale, Swapna Alex, Soni K.B., Sindura K.P. and Smitha Bhasi

Pramod A. Pimpale

Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Swapna Alex*

Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Soni K.B.

Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Sindura K.P.

Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Smitha Bhasi

Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

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311 1729395452 Biotica Research Today Arboretum - Way to Sustainability and Ex-situ Conservation Agriculture 258-260

An arboretum represents the accumulated knowledge of hundreds of years of plant identification, taxonomy, collecting, horticulture and curation. They also have the land and facilities, such as breeding nurseries, tissue culture laboratories and seed banks, required to maintain genetically diverse tree collections in the long term. With these strengths and assets, arboretums are in a unique position to play a significant role in mitigating the global tree biodiversity crisis through ex situ conservation.

Arboretum, Biodiversity, Ex-situ conservation, Garden NIL 2023-03-18 Popular Article Vennila S., K. Kumaran, N. Jothika, C. Cinthia Fernandaz and S. Kala

Vennila S.*

Dept. of Agronomy, Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Tiruvanamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

K. Kumaran

Dept. of Forest Biology and Tree Improvement, Forest College and Research Institute, TNAU, Mettupalayam, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

N. Jothika

Dept. of Forest Biology and Tree Improvement, Forest College and Research Institute, TNAU, Mettupalayam, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

C. Cinthia Fernandaz 

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Nilgiris, TNAU, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

S. Kala

Dept. of Agricultural Research and Education, ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation Research Centre, Kota, Rajasthan (324 002), India

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312 1729396310 Biotica Research Today Global Market Scenario, Novel Technologies in Processing of Wine and Its Nutritional Significance Agriculture 261-265

Enology is the science deals with wine and winemaking that focuses on grapes after they have been harvested. Wine geography has captivated mankind from ancient civilizations to the current globe. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans and other early traditions had a keen appreciation of the influence of geography upon the characteristics of wine produced within an area. In addition to winemaking, grapes have been grown for the production of raisins and table purpose. Grape production relayed upon agricultural practices like fertilizing, irrigation, canopy management, monitoring fruit development and characteristics, deciding when to harvest and vine pruning during the winter months, monitoring and controlling pests and diseases. Leaves have venotonic, vasoprotective, astringent and diuretic effects. The berries are vitaminics, tonics, anticancer, hepatoprotective, promote hair growth and prevent ischemic processes, while seed oil have hypolipidemic, prevents increase in vascular permeability, hence grape plant have tremendous medicinal importance since ancient time.

Ageing, Enology, Viticulture, Vitis vinifera L. NIL 2023-03-19 Popular Article Nagesh and Sanjana U.

Nagesh*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, University of Horticulture Sciences, Bagalkote, Karnataka (587 104), India

Sanjana U.

Dept. of Fruit Science, University of Horticulture Sciences, Bagalkote, Karnataka (587 104), India

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313 1729396894 Biotica Research Today Consequences of Exotic Species Invasion and Mitigation Measures in Fisheries Agriculture 266-269

Exotic species invasions have been well-documented throughout the world, and the reasons for introduction vary according to the requirements of each nation. The secondary threat to biodiversity, after the primary threat of habitat alteration, is the impact of alien species in natural water bodies. The impacts are divided into ecological, genetic, and socio-economic effects. Competition for shelter, food, predation, hybridization with native species, tainting of the gene pool, and introduction of diseases are the main problems of invasiveness. The introduction of invasive species often results in their dominance over native species due to their wide range of physiological and environmental tolerance. Before introducing any biological species, a thorough analysis of the ecosystem and its effects should be assessed. The most difficult task in open water bodies is the eradication of introduced species. Early detection and prevention could lead to the investigation of conservation strategies for biodiversity.

Exotic, Impact, Invasive, Open water NIL 2023-03-20 Popular Article V.L. Ramya, Jesna, P.K., Sibina Mol, S. and B.K. Das

V.L. Ramya

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 089), India

Jesna, P.K.*

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 089), India

Sibina Mol, S.

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 089), India

B.K. Das

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, West Bengal (700 120), India

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314 1729400619 Biotica Research Today Role of Dietary Minerals in Heat-Stressed Poultry Agriculture 279-280

One of the main issues the poultry business in tropical regions is dealing with is heat stress. Several approaches have been recommended for minimizing the negative effects of heat stress and to reduce loss of production during this time. Nutritional management is one of the most effective methods and is used all over the world. Fulfilling the mineral requirement during heat stress is necessary in nutritional management for the effective performance of the poultry. Due to the limited feed intake during heat stress conditions, it is essential to supplement with minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, iron, sodium, potassium, magnesium, selenium, chromium, manganese and iodine. These minerals support animal reproduction, increase nutrient uptake and at the same time efficiently reduce oxidative stress and improve the weakened immune systems of heat-stressed poultry.

Heat stress, Immunity, Mineral, Poultry NIL 2023-03-25 Popular Article Sneh D. Patel, Bharat A. Pata and Lokendra

Sneh D. Patel*

Dept. of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Bharat A. Pata

Dept. of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Lokendra

Dept. of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

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315 1729401067 Biotica Research Today Gut Health and Diabetes: How Phytochemicals Can Help Agriculture 281-283

The role of gut microbiota in developing and managing diabetes has received significant attention in recent years. Phytochemicals, biologically active compounds found in plants, have been proposed as potential modulators of gut microbiota in diabetes. Studies suggest that phytochemicals may positively impact gut microbiota composition and function in diabetes and improve glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Further investigation is required to comprehensively comprehend the mechanisms responsible for these impacts and establish the most effective quantities and origins of phytochemicals. Mechanisms of action for phytochemicals include acting as prebiotics, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and affecting the production of short-chain fatty acids. Limitations and challenges associated with clinical studies include heterogeneity of study populations, lack of standardized methods for assessing gut microbiota, and small sample sizes. Future research can focus on human clinical trials, mechanistic studies, identifying novel phytochemicals, and personalized medicine approaches.

Diabetes, microbiota, phytochemicals, prebiotics NIL 2023-03-26 Popular Article Bharat Garg, Shikha Yashveer, Anita, Shilpi and Reena Rani

Bharat Garg*

Dept. of Molecular Biology, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Biotechnology, CCS HAU, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Shikha Yashveer

Dept. of Molecular Biology, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Biotechnology, CCS HAU, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Anita

Dept. of Molecular Biology, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Biotechnology, CCS HAU, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Shilpi

Dept. of Molecular Biology, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Biotechnology, CCS HAU, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Reena Rani

Dept. of Molecular Biology, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Biotechnology, CCS HAU, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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316 1729401691 Biotica Research Today Direct Seeded Rice - A Sustainable Solution for Rice Production Agriculture 284-286

Puddled transplanted rice (PTR) is the conventional method of Rice (Oryza sativa) cultivation with repeated tillage followed by puddling operations which not only uses water intensively but also involve cumbersome and laborious process. Different problems like lowering water table, deteriorating soil health and scarcity of labour during critical periods driving towards an alternative and sustainable rice establishment and production system. Direct seeded rice (DSR) as a crop establishment method, is having all the features that are deficit in PTR. DSR is a technically and economically feasible, environmentally friendly alternative to conventional pumped and transplanted rice. It offers many advantages viz., it requires less water, saves labour, less drudgery, low production cost, early crop maturity, better soil physical conditions for following crops and has low greenhouse gas (GHG) potential with less methane emission. DSR provides the better option to be the best fit in different cropping systems across different climatic zones.

Direct seeded rice, Labour scarcity, Resource Conservation, Sustainability NIL 2023-03-28 Popular Article K. Srikanth Reddy, Kadapa Sreenivasareddy, Banavath Mahesh Naik, Basu Sudhakar Reddy and G. Raja Reddy

K. Srikanth Reddy*

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, (110 012), India

Kadapa Sreenivasareddy

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, (110 012), India

Banavath Mahesh Naik

Division of Agronomy, School of Agriculture Sciences, Malla Reddy University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 043), India

Basu Sudhakar Reddy

Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

G. Raja Reddy

Division of Entomology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, (110 012), India

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317 1729402466 Biotica Research Today Soil Nitrogen and Nutrient Management Interventions (Tools/ Apps) at Farm Level Agriculture 287-290

Soil nitrogen and nutrient management interventions are crucial for sustainable agriculture and reducing negative environmental impacts. Various tools and apps help farmers optimize nitrogen and nutrient management at the farm level. These tools and apps can do many different things like figure out how much nitrogen and nutrients a crop needs, test the soil and recommend fertilizers. Farmers can improve their efficiency and reduce costs by adopting these tools and apps while minimizing environmental impacts such as soil erosion and water pollution. The use of precision agriculture techniques, such as variable-rate nutrient applications, soil nitrogen and nutrient management interventions, can further optimize crop yields and reduce the need for excess fertilizer use. Overall, soil nitrogen and nutrient management interventions and associated tools and apps can be important in ensuring sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.

Apps, Nitrogen, Soil testing, Tools NIL 2023-03-29 Popular Article Sandeep Kumar and Arti Bhatia

Sandeep Kumar*

Division of Environment Science, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Arti Bhatia

Division of Environment Science, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

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318 1729402865 Biotica Research Today The Hidden Dangers of Mycotoxins in Poultry Feed and How to Mitigate Their Effects Agriculture 291-293

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by a variety of toxigenic fungi that can cause many harmful effects on the animal body. Toxic syndromes, such as mycotoxicosis in animals and poultry, are seriously threatened by ubiquitous occurrence, heat stability, and lipophilic character. The economy of the poultry sector in India has been severely impacted by widespread mycotoxin exposure or contamination of various agricultural products. The economic losses are mostly caused by the decreased growth rate, feed conversion efficiency, carcass production, carcass quality, and increased susceptibility to various diseases among the affected birds, which is brought on by their immunosuppressive effects. Mycotoxins can be decontaminated by using several physical and chemical techniques that reduce the toxin burden in crop/ feed.

Decontamination, Mycotoxicosis, Mycotoxin, Poultry NIL 2023-03-30 Popular Article Priyal B. Dakhore, Sanket M. Kalam and Isha P. Akare

Priyal B. Dakhore*

Dept. of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Anand, Gujarat (388 001), India

Sanket M. Kalam

Dept. of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Isha P. Akare

Dept. of Veterinary Pathology, Post Graduate Institute of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Akola, Maharashtra (444 001), India

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319 1729403266 Biotica Research Today Scope of Cage Aquaculture System in Bihar: Way towards Unlocking the Potential of Inland Open Water Bodies Agriculture 294-297

Several estimates proclaim that the demand for fish will be manifold incoming years and the inland fishery sector has to play a significant role in meeting this upsurging demand. The Cage aquaculture system is expected to play a significant role in fulfilling the vision of blue revolution in the country through incorporation of enclosure aquaculture in inland open waters. Bihar being the land of vast inland aquatic resource, where most of the large water bodies are in underutilized condition, adoption of cage aquaculture will effectively utilize the water bodies and will contribute towards enhancing the socio-economic status, increasing the employment generation as well as providing nutritional security to the people.

Bihar, Cage Aquaculture, Inland Water, NFDB NIL 2023-03-31 Popular Article Abhilipsa Biswal, Ravindra Kumar Tiwari, Shivendra Kumar, Anupama Kumari, Bharati Upadhaya, Sanchita Ghosh, Sumit Kumar Singh and Pankaj Kumar

Abhilipsa Biswal*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Birauli, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar (848 115), India

Ravindra Kumar Tiwari

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Birauli, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar (848 115), India

Shivendra Kumar

College of Fisheries, Dholi, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar (848 125), India

Anupama Kumari

Directorate of Extension Education, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar (848 125), India

Bharati Upadhaya

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Birauli, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar (848 115), India

Sanchita Ghosh

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Birauli, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar (848 115), India

Sumit Kumar Singh

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Birauli, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar (848 115), India

Pankaj Kumar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Saraiya, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Bihar (843 126), India

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320 1729403975 Biotica Research Today Nutritional Profile of Functional Food - Flaxseed Agriculture 298-301

The nutritive value of flaxseed is unparalleled compared to that of any other seed. Omega-3 fatty acid alpha linolenic acid, lignan secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), and fibre are all found in abundance in flaxseed. The anti-inflammatory effect, anti-oxidative capability, and lipid regulating capabilities of these chemicals make them useful for animal and human health. Whole flaxseed, ground flaxseed, flaxseed oil, and partially defatted flaxseed meal are the four most frequent forms of flaxseed used for human consumption. Flaxseed has a number of beneficial compounds, including protease inhibitors, phytic acids, linatine, and cyanogenic glycosides. Yet, research on humans has revealed no harmful consequences from these substances. It is possible that the amounts of these components provided by flaxseed in the diet are insufficient to elicit any biological responses. It is, nonetheless, wise to consider the expressed concern. Flaxseed may have its levels of these components lowered by plant breeding or food processing.

Cyanogenic glycosides, Flaxseed, Omega-3 fatty acid, Phytic acids NIL 2023-04-04 Popular Article Prasanta Kumar Majhi, Kishore Chandra Sahoo and Sukumar Tudu

Prasanta Kumar Majhi*

Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kishore Chandra Sahoo

Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Sukumar Tudu

Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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321 1729405676 Biotica Research Today Conservation Agriculture: A Pathway to Climate-Resilient Agriculture Agriculture 302-304

Climate change has become a major challenge to agriculture. To help farmers respond to this challenge, conservation agriculture (CA) has been identified as a viable pathway towards climate-resilient agriculture. Conservation agriculture involves the adoption of practices such as minimal soil disturbance, the maintenance of permanent soil cover, and the use of crop rotations and intercropping. This approach has been found to have a range of benefits, including improved soil health, increased water infiltration and retention, improved nutrient cycling, increased organic matter content, and decreased erosion. In addition, CA can reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, such as nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide, and can increase overall crop productivity. This paper reviews the evidence for these benefits and evaluates the potential for CA to help farmers cope with the effects of climate change.

Carbon sequestration, Climate change, Conservation agriculture, Soil health NIl 2023-04-05 Popular Article Abhik Patra, Ashish Rai, Vandana Kumari, Sripriya Das and Sourav Choudhury

Abhik Patra*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

Ashish Rai

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Parsauni, East Champaran, Bihar (845 458), India

Vandana Kumari

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sheohar, Bihar (843 329), India

Sripriya Das

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Vaishali, Bihar (848 102), India

Sourav Choudhury

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sukhet, Madhubani, Bihar (847 404), India

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322 1729406243 Biotica Research Today Impact of Microplastics and Their Prevention in Aquatic Ecosystem Agriculture 305-307

In addition to soil, rivers, lakes, and the ocean, microplastics can also be found in the air. Microplastics can be consumed by animals and result in physical harm as well as the release of hazardous compounds into the environment; they are bad for the ecosystem and wildlife. Microplastics can significantly affect the aquatic environment and organs such as the digestive system, physical injury to the stomach and intestines that results in inflammation and associated issues of fish. To safeguard the well-being of aquatic ecosystems and the organisms that depend on them, it is imperative to minimize the use of plastic and create methods for eliminating microplastics from the environment. A multifaceted strategy that includes reducing the quantity of plastic waste that enters waterways, putting in place efficient wastewater treatment systems, and informing the public about the effects of microplastics on the environment will be needed to prevent and control the presence of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems.

Control, Impact, Microplastics, Prevention and Ecosystem NIL 2023-04-07 Popular Article Durgesh Kumar Verma, Narendra Kumar Maurya, Pragati Inwati and Harsha Harinkhede

Durgesh Kumar Verma*

ICAR-CIFRI, Regional Centre, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh (211 002), India

Narendra Kumar Maurya

College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences, University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

Pragati Inwati

College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences, University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

Harsha Harinkhede

College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences, University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

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323 1729406829 Biotica Research Today Indian Man Becomes World’s First Victim of ‘Killer’ Plant Fungus Chondrostereum purpureum Agriculture 308-310

A person was infected with Chondrostereum purpureum, which led to flu-like symptoms. However, it results in silver leaf disease in the flora, most often in rose species. It is transmitted by spores in the air. It is so called because it often results in death and eventually turns leaves silver. But, doctors in India have revealed what they believe to be the first incidence of it ever infecting humans. A 61-year-old man who had been experiencing symptoms, including a cough, exhaustion, trouble swallowing, and a scratchy voice for three months sought treatment at The Apollo Multispecialty Hospitals in Kolkata. The individual had no medical history, in contrast to those considered to be the most vulnerable to fungal infections that are known to jump species, such as those with cancer, HIV, respiratory conditions, and organ transplants. Meanwhile, he was a plant mycologist, who was dealing with a variety of plant fungus and mushrooms.

Chondrostereum purpureum, Killer, Plant fungus, Silver leaf disease NIL 2023-04-08 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Manaswini Mahapatra, Suchismita Balabantaray, Kailash Chandra Samal and Sonali Behera

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Manaswini Mahapatra

Dept. of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Suchismita Balabantaray

Dept. of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, C.V. Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Sonali Behera

N.C. (Narasingh Choudhury) Autonomous College, Jajpur, Odisha (755 001), India

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324 1729407627 Biotica Research Today Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Agriculture and Its Mitigation Strategies Agriculture 311-313

Climate change is the most important environmental problem, especially in developing countries. Greenhouse gas emission is the major factor in climate change. Carbon emission, nitrous oxide emission, and methane emission are the major components of greenhouse gas. The agricultural sector shares a major proportion of total GHG emissions. The agricultural industry's carbon footprint is determined by calculating the aggregate greenhouse gas emissions produced by all activities within the sector. The main cause of climate change is an increase in the concentration of GHGs in the atmosphere, which traps heat and interfere with outgoing infrared radiation, increasing the temperature of the atmosphere. Agricultural development in India is being affected by climate change due to its frequent drought periods, warmer temperatures, and unpredictable rainfall. These impacts may lead to lower crop yields, a higher risk of crop failures and food shortages.

Agriculture, Greenhouse gas, Methane, Mitigation strategies NIL 2023-04-09 Popular Article M. Mathiyazhini, S. Senthilnathan and V. Saravanakumar

M. Mathiyazhini

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 041), India

 S. Senthilnathan*

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam, Vallanadu, Tamil Nadu (628 252), India

 V. Saravanakumar

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Theni, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

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325 1729430357 Biotica Research Today Benzoxazinoids: A Propitious Biocontrol Agent for a Promising Future Agriculture 317-319

Numerous plants produce benzoxazinoids, primarily DIBOA and DIMBOA or its derivatives, which primarily function as part of the plant's defense mechanisms against a variety of pests, fungi, and weeds and have the potential to supplant synthetic fungicides, weedicides, and pesticides. In general, synthetic chemicals are affordable and efficient, but only in the short run. Target organisms on which they are spread rapidly develop resistance to it. Furthermore, due to their high toxicity and lack of degradability, these synthetic compounds have long been a significant cause of environmental pollution and human diseases. Thus, to keep a green future, this brief review is focused on the various aspects of using benzoxazinoids as a biocontrol agent rather than synthetic chemicals.

Biocontrol, Benzoxazinoids, Hydroxamic acid, Sustainable development NIL 2023-04-15 Popular Article Aishik Sinha, Ankur Chaudhuri and Anirban Bhar*

Aishik Sinha

Dept. of Botany (Postgraduate), Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Rahara, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 118), India

Ankur Chaudhuri

Dept. of Botany (Postgraduate), Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Rahara, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 118), India

Anirban Bhar*

Dept. of Botany (Postgraduate), Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Rahara, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 118), India

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326 1729431021 Biotica Research Today Guava Breeding: A Timeline for Major Developments in the World Agriculture 320-322

Although guava plants were domesticated over 2000 years ago, their commercial cultivation was not reported until 1526. Since then, significant achievements have been made in the breeding of guava, and in India, work on guava improvement began for the first time in 1907. Achievements in guava breeding have significantly helped to increase the profitability of guava cultivation and have been a subject of research for several decades. Breeding programs have been successful worldwide to develop guava cultivars with improved yield and enhanced disease resistance and fruit quality. In the future, the development of genetic linkage maps, tools like marker-assisted selection (MAS), clonal fingerprinting, genome sequencing, transcriptomics, genome-wide association studies, genetic diversity analysis, etc. will facilitate crop improvement approaches in the guava.

Guava breeding, Molecular markers, Pigments, Psidium guajava L. NIL 2023-04-18 Popular Article Akshay and Madhubala Thakre

Akshay*

Division of Fruits and Horticultural Technology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Madhubala Thakre

Division of Fruits and Horticultural Technology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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327 1729431886 Biotica Research Today Super Weeds - A Threat to Herbicide Tolerant Crops Agriculture 323-325

As a result of public concerns, GM plants may be able to satisfy the needs of an expanding population. GM plants are created to acquire advantageous characteristics like insect and disease resistance, herbicide tolerance, and others. In India, weeds are responsible for around one-third of crop output losses. Weed management became easier and more energy-efficient with the advent of herbicides. The chemical weed management approach has quickly spread around the world and emerged as one of the most efficient instruments to manage weeds due to its low cost and quick performance. Unfortunately, the current situation's emergence of herbicide resistance poses a threat to this essential technique. Herbicide-resistant weeds are weed species that have evolved the capacity to withstand the application of an herbicide that previously controlled them. This leads to the evolution of super weeds.

Genetically modified plants, Herbicide tolerant crop, Super weeds, Wild mustard NIL 2023-04-20 Popular Article Gobikashri N., Kousalya A. and Jennifer Flora G.

Gobikashri N.*

Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

Kousalya A.

Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

Jennifer Flora G.

Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

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328 1729432226 Biotica Research Today Participatory Extension Approach: Empowering Farmers Agriculture 326-328

Participatory Extension Approach (PEA) has emerged as a promising approach to agricultural extension that prioritizes the active participation and empowerment of farmers in the development process. The historical evolution of PEA shows how it has emerged as an alternative to traditional top-down extension approaches. PEA emphasizes the use of participatory tools and techniques such as Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), Farmer Field Schools (FFS) and Participatory Technology Development (PTD) to enable farmers to participate actively in the extension process with encompassing the key principles of community participation, relevance, and sustainability. Improved farmer knowledge, skills, and practices, as well as improved social capital and rural livelihoods are the crucial benefits of PEA. At the same time challenges, including resistance to change, limited resources, power dynamics, lack of institutional support, and inadequate monitoring and evaluation hinders the implementation of PEA. However, with effective communication, capacity building, and enabling policy environments, PEA has the potential to promote sustainable agriculture and rural development.

Participation, Participatory Rural Appraisal, Participatory Technology Development, Sustainability NIL 2023-04-22 Popular Article Sushmita Saini, Sonali Mallick and Smruti Ranjan Padhan

Sushmita Saini

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Sonali Mallick

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Smruti Ranjan Padhan*

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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329 1729432549 Biotica Research Today Recent Advances on CRISPR/Cas9 based Genome Editing in Silkworms Bombyx mori L. (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) Agriculture 329-331

Bombyx mori, the mulberry silkworm, is of the utmost significance in the discipline of sericulture due to extensive production of glossy silk fibres. Apart from playing a crucial role in the textile industry, it is also a model organism for various scientific studies and a bioreactor that facilitates the production of recombinant protein. Therefore, numerous efforts are being made to appropriately alter silkworm genetics. The infamous CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technique is currently in use for manipulation of vital genes as BmBlos2, BmKu70, BmFibH, BmCactus, BmJhe, immediate early-1 (ie-0) and (ie-2) in B. mori. Therefore, this review briefly highlights the advancements made to manipulate the genome of silkworms in the current decade using CRISPR/Cas9 as a tool in hand. It is also understood as to how CRISPR-Cas9 systems heightened the basic research on B. mori and other organisms, demonstrating the enormous promise of insect biotechnology across a wide range of disciplines.

CRISPR/Cas9, Genetics, Silk, Silkworms NIL 2023-04-25 Popular Article Sangeeta Dash

Sangeeta Dash

Division of Entomology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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330 1729432881 Biotica Research Today Insect Pests Management Strategies in Flowers Crop under Greenhouse Agriculture 332-334

Greenhouses are generally used to grow commercial flowers. As the greenhouse provides favourable environment for growth of insect pest, the menace of insect pest is higher. Therefore, regular supervision/ monitoring and suitable control measures should be adopted at the appropriate time. Sucking pests like aphids, thrips, and whiteflies attack on Rose and Gerbera; some non-insect pests like mites (red and spotted spider mite) attack on Rose, Gerbera, and Carnation; foliage feeders like Helicoverpa, Spodoptera and Leaf minor attack on Carnation, Rose, and Gerbera; Anthuriums and Orchids attacked by snails and slugs. In greenhouses, natural enemies are generally absent and therefore, a dramatic increase in pest populations has been observed. Subsequently to control greenhouse pests we have to adopt suitable pest management strategies.

Greenhouse, Flower crops, Sucking pests, Management NIL 2023-04-26 Popular Article Priya and Sunil Kumar Mandal

Priya*

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Sunil Kumar Mandal

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

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331 1729433227 Biotica Research Today Management of Crop Residues Agriculture 335-337

After the harvest and threshing of crops the plant parts which are left behind are called as crop residues. It includes straw, stubbles, roots, stalks, and stem. The growing population has resulted in a significant upsurge in food production, which in turn has led to an increase in the amount of crop residues generated, such as those from rice, wheat, and sugarcane. However, due to a lack of awareness regarding the utilization of crop residues, most of the crop residues are burnt in the fields after harvesting. These crop residues are considered as “Potential Black Gold” are they are rich in organic matter and can be utilised in manufacturing of bio-char, pellets, various packaging materials, paper industry, bio-gas production, mushroom cultivation and mainly used as surface mulch and composting which enhances soil fertility and productivity.

Crop residues, Livestock feed, Mushroom cultivation, Surface mulch NIL 2023-04-27 Popular Article Jennifer Flora G., Gobikashri N. and Kousalya A.

Jennifer Flora G.*

Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Karunya Nagar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

Gobikashri N.

Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Karunya Nagar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

Kousalya A.

Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Karunya Nagar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

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332 1729433945 Biotica Research Today Association Mapping for Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants: Prospects and Limitations Agriculture 342-344

Abiotic stress is one of the major challenges faced by plants, which negatively affects their development, growth, and production. The use of association mapping in plants is a highly effective technique for pinpointing specific areas of the genome that are linked to increased tolerance to abiotic stress. Association mapping (AM) is a technique that utilizes thousands of genetic variations to identify the effects of quantitative trait loci (QTL) on traits. It is a powerful tool for discovering new genes and alleles, as well as for breaking down complex traits. Compared to linkage analysis, AM is advantageous because it relies on the structure of linkage disequilibrium (LD) to provide high resolution. However, several factors must be considered when using AM, including marker density, population structure, sample size, and germplasm selection. This article discusses the prospects and limitations of association mapping for abiotic stress resilience in plants.

Abiotic stress, Genome-wide association mapping (GWAS), Linkage disequilibrium (LD), Marker-trait associations NIL 2023-04-29 Popular Article Purnima Ray, Jatin Tanwar, M.R. Prajapati and Kundaria Hensi

Purnima Ray*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, NMCA, NAU, Navsari, Gujarat (396 450), India

Jatin Tanwar

Division of Genetics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

M.R. Prajapati

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, NMCA, NAU, Navsari, Gujarat (396 450), India

Kundaria Hensi

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, NMCA, NAU, Navsari, Gujarat (396 450), India

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333 1729485160 Biotica Research Today May (2023) Equine Herpesviruses: An Overview Agriculture 349-351

Two most frequent causes of fever rhino pneumonitis in horses are EHV-1 and EHV-4 viruses. In some regions, EHV-1 is also a significant contributor to myeloencephalopathy respectively outbreaks and abortions. Aerosolized viral particles can spread illness when inhaled, and viruses mostly harm the uterine, pulmonary, and spinal cord mucosa, causing rhinopneumonitis, abortion, and myeloencephalopathy. Real-time PCR is now regarded as the gold standard for diagnosis, replacing viral isolation, which was once thought to be the gold standard due to the development of improved molecular techniques. The whole genome sequencing data is available for EHV 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, and 9.

Diagnosis, EHV, Genome, Latency NIL 2023-05-04 Popular Article Avani R. Modi and Bharat B. Bhanderi

Avani R. Modi*

Dept. of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Anand, Gujarat (388 001), India

Bharat B. Bhanderi

Dept. of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Anand, Gujarat (388 001), India

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334 1729486044 Biotica Research Today May (2023) An Overview of Nanotechnology in Agriculture to Ensure Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture Agriculture 352-354

Applications of nanotechnology can be found all over the world, and their number is quickly growing. According to a number of studies, the small size, high surface area, and catalytic nature of nanoparticles and nanostructures all contribute to arise in a variety of characteristics. The application of nanotechnology in agriculture ensures the safety of food supplies. An improvement in agricultural output can be achieved by microbial, insect, and weed management that is safe, secure, and inexpensive. Processing, stability, sensing, shelf-life, loss reduction, and food safety are all improved as a result of this. The post-harvest stability, safety and packaging are all improved thanks to nanotechnology. Food processing nanoparticles made of Ag, Zn, TiO2, ZnO, SiO2 and MgO have been shown to enter cells and cause damage to humans, animals, and plants.

Agriculture, Fertilizers, Food security, Nanoparticles NIL 2023-05-05 Popular Article Desetty JMSNK Sri Veda and Pravallikasree Rayanoothala

Desetty JMSNK Sri Veda

Paddy Seed Production, ALF, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 060), India

Pravallikasree Rayanoothala*

CV Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 054), India

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335 1729486995 Biotica Research Today May (2023) Pod Fly, Melanagromyza obtusa (Mulloch) - Emerging Pest of Pigeonpea in Tamil Nadu Agriculture 355-357

In India, pigeonpea occupies 16% of the total agricultural area under pulses and contributes 17% of the total production. Among the yield limiting factors the biotic and abiotic stresses occupies prime position in pigeonpea cultivation. The pigeonpea pod fly, Melanagromyza obtusa is emerging as a threat to pigeonpea cultivation in Tamil Nadu. The hidden enemy causes 12-100% pod loss and the medium and long-duration pigeonpea are more prone to pod fly damage. The grubs emerging from the eggs initially scrap the seed surface and later mine into seed to feed the inner contents. The damaged seeds are unsuitable for consumption and also for seed purposes.

Pigeonpea, Pod fly, Resistant, Seed damage NIL 2023-05-07 Popular Article Shanmugam, P.S., R. Ramesh, T. Srinivasan and V. Baskaran

Shanmugam, P.S.*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

R. Ramesh

National Pulses Research Centre, TNAU, Vamban, Tamil Nadu (622 303), India

T. Srinivasan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V. Baskaran

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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336 1729487485 Biotica Research Today May (2023) Groundnut Stem Rot, (Sclerotium rolfsii) - An Emerging Threat to Groundnut Production Agriculture 358-359

Groundnut Stem Rot, caused by the soil-borne fungus Sclerotium rolfsii, is becoming an increasingly serious threat to groundnut production. This fungal pathogen infects the stem of the groundnut plant and causes stem rot, which can ultimately lead to the plant's death. The disease has been reported in many countries and is particularly prevalent in tropical and sub-tropical regions where groundnut is a staple crop. This article provides an overview of the disease and its symptoms, as well as current management strategies and future research directions to combat this emerging threat to groundnut production.

Groundnut, Management, Sclerotium, Stem rot NIL 2023-05-08 Popular Article V. Lakshmi Nikhitha and R. Arutselvan

V. Lakshmi Nikhitha*

School of Agricultural Sciences, Malla Reddy University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 100), India

R. Arutselvan

Regional Station, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

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337 1729487975 Biotica Research Today May (2023) Green Manuring - A Great Boon for Organic Agriculture Agriculture 360-362

Green manuring has been a promising practice for ages, serving as a vital tool in maintaining soil fertility and productivity. It is the process of soil incorporation under any green plants either by raising them in the field itself or grown on bunds, wastelands and neighboring forests brought into the soil. The age of incorporation of green manure is at the time of flowering. It aims to provide the soil with the most crucial and deficient nutrient, nitrogen, by adding organic matter to the soil. This can be achieved through two methods of incorporation: in-situ incorporation and ex-situ incorporation. By minimizing the cost of fertilizers and safeguarding productivity, green manuring proves to be a low-cost and effective method. Soil health degradation is one of the most important problems faced by farmers therefore green manuring helps in reducing leaching losses, suppression of weeds and improves soil fertility and productivity.

Green manuring, Nitrogen fixation, Organic farming, Organic matter NIL 2023-05-10 Popular Article Nitin Rex Sancho A. and Jennifer Flora G.

Nitin Rex Sancho A.*

Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Karunya Nagar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

Jennifer Flora G.

Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Karunya Nagar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

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338 1729489502 Biotica Research Today May (2023) Copigmentation: An Important Feature of Anthocyanins Agriculture 363-365

Copigmentation is a chemical phenomenon that occurs when a colorless organic molecule interacts with a pigment molecule to form a stable, intensely colored complex. It involves the interaction between colorless copigments and colored, water-soluble pigments, i.e., anthocyanins. Examples of copigments include flavonols, polyphenols, organic acids, and alkaloids. The effect of copigments is predominant in weak acidic conditions. The process can occur in several ways, including self-association, intramolecular, and intermolecular interactions. Different types of shifts such as bathochromic, hyperchromic, and hypsochromic, determine the color quality and stability of these complexes. Understanding the mechanisms of copigmentation can lead to the development of strategies to enhance the color quality and stability of products in different food, cosmetics, and textile industries.

Anthocyanins, Color stability, Copigmentation, Flavonols NIL 2023-05-12 Popular Article Akshay and Madhubala Thakre

Akshay*

Division of Fruits and Horticultural Technology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India 

Madhubala Thakre

Division of Fruits and Horticultural Technology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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339 1729516975 Biotica Research Today May (2023) Heavy Metals Contamination and Remediation Agriculture 374-377

Heavy metals normally occur in Earth's crust, but the human way of life can trigger the concentration to increase, posing serious health risks to humans and other organisms. Remediation, the process of cleaning up environmental contamination, is necessary to mitigate these risks. Several methods can be used for heavy metal remediation, including physical, chemical, and biological approaches, with the choice of the method depending on factors, namely the type of heavy metal, the concentration of heavy metals present, and the potential risks to the health of the environment. Combined methods or multipurpose methods may be used to achieve the desired results.

Bioremediation, Hazards, Phytoremediation, Pollution NIL 2023-05-18 Popular Article C. Prabakaran

C. Prabakaran

Dept. of Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tiruchchirappalli, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (620 029), India

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340 1729517622 Biotica Research Today May (2023) Natural Farming in India: Prospects and Constraints Agriculture 382-384

Natural farming (NF) is an agricultural technique that relies on natural processes to enhance soil fertility and crop production without the use of chemicals or genetically modified organisms. It is a form of traditional farming that is becoming increasingly popular due to its emphasis on sustainability. Natural farming techniques include the use of composting, crop rotation, intercropping, and other natural methods to promote healthy soil and increase yields. Natural farming also encourages biodiversity and the use of local resources to reduce the reliance on external inputs. Despite its benefits, natural farming can be difficult to implement due to its reliance on traditional methods and lack of access to modern technologies. Nonetheless, it has the potential to become a viable alternative to conventional agriculture in many parts of the world. Natural farming might be a feasible option to food insecurity and poverty in the future, while simultaneously lessening the consequences of climate change.

Agroecology, Composting, Mulching, Soil health NIL 2023-05-22 Popular Article Abhik Patra, R.P. Singh, Pankaj Malkani, Bhushan Kumar Singh and Gagan Kumar

Abhik Patra*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

R.P. Singh

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

Pankaj Malkani

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

Bhushan Kumar Singh

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

Gagan Kumar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

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341 1729517991 Biotica Research Today May (2023) The Crucial Role of Antibiotics in Modern Medicine and Their Adverse Environmental Impact: An In-Depth Analysis Agriculture 385-387

Antibiotics, although indispensable in contemporary medicine, have been widely employed, causing ecological pollution and fostering the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This article delves into the ecological consequences of antibiotics, scrutinizing their influence on microbial populations, soil quality, and water resources. Furthermore, it addresses the potential implications of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and puts forward recommendations for curtailing the environmental impact of antibiotics.

Antibiotics, Contamination, Ecological impact, Resistant bacteria NIL 2023-05-25 Popular Article C. Prabakaran

C. Prabakaran

Dept. of Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tiruchchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 029), India

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342 1729577133 Biotica Research Today Insect Immunology Unveiled: Unlocking Mechanisms and its Potential in Pest Control Strategies Agriculture 394-396

Insects are one of the most diverse creatures of nature, surviving on this earth for millions of years. Insects’ capability to resist invading pathogens and infections is one of the potential reasons for their overwhelming adaptability to different environments. Insect immunity comprises several complex mechanisms and pathways. From the invasion of the pathogen to creating an immune response takes several steps, including recognition of the pathogen, channelling pathways and the effector mechanisms. Current chemical-dependent strategies for pest control are neither sustainable nor eco-friendly. So, the exploration of new and environmentally-safe pest control approaches has become an urgent need. A deep understanding of insect immunology can create such strategies by targeting the immune system of insects for biocontrol. In this article, we will discuss the fascinating facts of insect immunology by exploring the complexity of their immune systems and shed light on the potential applications of insect immunology in biocontrol.

AMPs, Eicosanoid, Insect immunology, RNAi NIL 2023-06-02 Popular Article Arindam Pal

Arindam Pal

Dept. of Entomology, Post Graduate College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

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343 1729577473 Biotica Research Today Leveraging Microbes for Climate-Smart Agriculture Agriculture 397-399

Climate change is affecting agriculture and food production significantly. Climate-smart agriculture is concerned with the development of farming strategies that not only protect food security from the impacts of changing weather patterns but also reduce greenhouse gas emissions while augmenting C sequestration in soil. Proper management and utilization of the beneficial functions of microorganisms is critical to achieving sustainability goals and minimizing negative environmental impacts. Microorganisms play a major role in improving efficiency, adapting to climate change and mitigating climate change. Beneficial microbes are often recommended for maintaining soil health and fertility, but they also increase agricultural efficiency and are an integral part of the C-N cycle in soil. The role of microorganisms as greenhouse gas sources and sinks can be used to develop climate change mitigation strategies.

Climate change, Greenhouse gas, Microbes, Sustainability NIL 2023-06-04 Popular Article Akarsha Raj, Anchal Karol and Anjali Rawat

Akarsha Raj*

Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

Anchal Karol

Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

Anjali Rawat

Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidalaya, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh (176 062), India

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344 1729601563 Biotica Research Today Applications of Nanotechnology in Aquaculture: A Promising Novel Technology for Sustainable Aquaculture Agriculture 402-404

Aquaculture is one of the fastest growing food sectors, where its surging development is a key factor in deciding the nutritional safety and security globally. With the advancements in technological applications in this sector, systems based on nanotechnology are being developed recently to enhance productivity, efficiency, and long-term viability. Due to their multiple applications in several fields such as in health management that includes drug delivery, pathogen detection as well as in treatment of polluted water have made it one of the promising technologies for boosting the efficacy as well as in reducing the negative impacts on the environment. In context with the above, this article emphasizes on the current scenario of implementing nanotechnology in fisheries and aquaculture.

Drug delivery, Health management, Nanomaterial, Nanotechnology NIL 2023-06-08 Popular Article Mutum Deepti, Martina Meinam and Wangkheimayum Malemnganbi Devi

Mutum Deepti*

College of Fisheries, GADVASU, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Martina Meinam

College of Fisheries, CAU, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

Wangkheimayum Malemnganbi Devi

College of Fisheries, CAU, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

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345 1729601901 Biotica Research Today Artificial Intelligence Revolutionizes Plant Pathology: Unleashing the Power of Technology for Crop Protection Agriculture 405-406

This article explores the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in plant pathology and its impact on disease diagnosis, monitoring and management in agriculture. By leveraging advanced AI algorithms and techniques, plant pathologists can detect diseases at an early stage, accurately diagnose them and predict disease outbreaks. AI-integrated decision support systems provide personalized recommendations for disease control strategies, pesticide usage and crop rotation practices, fostering sustainable agricultural practices. The use of AI models such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Support Vector Machines (SVMs) and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs) enables efficient disease detection, classification and risk assessment based on plant images and data analysis. This article highlights the potential of AI in revolutionizing plant pathology, enhancing crop protection and contributing to global food security.

Artificial Intelligence, Disease diagnosis, Food security, Plant pathology NIL 2023-06-09 Popular Article Shraddha Bhaskar Sawant, Repudi Shalem Raju, GBN Jyothi and Laxmipreeya Behera

Shraddha Bhaskar Sawant*

Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (753 001), India

Repudi Shalem Raju

Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (753 001), India

GBN Jyothi

Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (753 001), India

Laxmipreeya Behera

Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (753 001), India

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346 1729602248 Biotica Research Today The Mithun (Bos frontalis): A Review of Its Significance as 4 Ms (Meat, Money, Milk and Marriage) of Naga Tribes of India Agriculture 407-409

Mithun, a state animal of Nagaland, playing predominate role in lives of tribes. Mithun is semi-domesticated animal reared by the tribes which is a major source of livelihood for them in terms of 4Ms (Meat, Milk, Money and Marriage). As a meat majority of the people in Nagaland are consuming Mithun which adds to the main component of food security among Naga Tribes. As milk, it can play a vital role in enhancing food as well as economic security of tribes. Mithun milk is of higher nutritional value which can be consumed but tribes are unaware of the health and economic benefits of Mithun’s milk. By using this unrealized potential, tribes can pick up several entrepreneurial opportunities through value addition and by identifying demand for Mithun’s milk and meat which may be source of economic livelihood among farmers. Hence, Mithun plays a pivotal role in enhancing livelihood security tribes of Nagaland.

Marriage, Meat, Mithun, Money NIL 2023-06-12 Popular Article Narendra V.N. and Chaithrashree, J.

Narendra V.N.*

ICAR-NRC on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Chaithrashree, J.

Dept. of Crop Physiology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065) India

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347 1729602590 Biotica Research Today Post Partum Anorexia in Sow and Therapeutics Agriculture 410-413

Anorexia is condition where animal does not take food adequately. Like human anorexia in sow after farrowing is very common. The causes may be wide due to change of hormonal, physical, psycho-environmental, nutritional status, sudden high nutritional demand and deficiency of nutrients, concurrent diseases, body condition and microbial infections. Clinical signs shown by the animals are weakness, complete or partial anorexia; laying down, agalactia, gradual thinning, reduction in defecation and micturition, initial fever but later subnormal temperature. Sow shows inactive and irritating mood that is why crushing and biting of piglets occur. Post mortem necropsy with liver, lung and gastrointestinal changes along with vaginal discharges, uterine hemorrhages. The disease can be diagnosed with clinical signs and history of recent farrowing with numerous piglets, prolong farrowing process and agalactic udders. The disease may be managed with good health management practices such as therapeutic intervention with analgesic, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotic, probiotics, hormonal therapy, feeding nutritious feed and supplements.

Anorexia, Farrowing, Sow, Therapy NIL 2023-06-14 Popular Article Mondal, D., Naskar, S., Bag, S. and Barman, A.

Mondal, D.*

Eastern Regional Station, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

Naskar, S.

Eastern Regional Station, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

Bag, S.

Eastern Regional Station, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

Barman, A.

Eastern Regional Station, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

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348 1729604328 Biotica Research Today Insect Frass and Exuviae as a Natural Fertilizer Agriculture 425-426

As the Global population continues to expand, the demand for sustainable and environment friendly agricultural practices become crucial. In recent years, the insect by-products (frass and exuviae) became a promising and sustainable alternative to synthetic and traditional fertilizers in agriculture. The nutrient rich composition and slow releasing properties make them an attractive option for enhancing crop productivity while reducing the environmental impacts.

Exuviae, Insect frass, Natural fertilizer, Soil-health NIL 2023-06-21 Popular Article Reddi Gowrisankar, Sumithramma N., Surekha Dasari and Shambhavi H.T.

Reddi Gowrisankar*

Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Sumithramma N.

University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

Surekha Dasari

Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Shambhavi H.T.

University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

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349 1729606187 Biotica Research Today Integrated Management of Major Insect Pests of Groundnut Crop (Arachis hypogaea L.) Agriculture 432-435

Groundnut is known as the "King of Oilseeds" in India. The groundnut is also called a ‘wonder nut’ or poor man’s almond. The majority of the world's groundnut exports come from India. In the initial and active growth stages, groundnut crops become infested various types insect pests such as aphids, hoppers, thrips, caterpillars, miners, borers, grubs, leaf webber, etc. In the last stages of the crop, pests such groundnut earwigs or pod borer, which penetrate emerging pods and cause severe damage, may attack the crop. The majority of farmers use hazardous chemicals as pesticides in today's modern era, which is leading to a wide range of environmental issues. The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach has shown to be the most effective way to handle this problem.

Environmental issues, Groundnut crop, Integrated Pest Management, Pests NIL 2023-06-24 Popular Article Saurabh Singh, Arun Kumar, Prince Sahu, Saurabh Kumar and Pramod Kumar Mishra

Saurabh Singh

Dept. of Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Arun Kumar

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Prince Sahu*

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Saurabh Kumar

Dept. of Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Pramod Kumar Mishra

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

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350 1729606591 Biotica Research Today Biomimetics - The Technology Powered by Nature Agriculture 436-438

Nature has always been an inspiration to scientists and this in turn has led to many scientific inventions. Biomimetics is the application of natural concepts and principles to build new materials and systems. Biomimetic approaches are important in the advancements in the field of nanotechnology also. Biomimetic nanomaterials are synthetic materials that are designed to mimic the structures and functions of natural biological systems at the nanoscale. Biomimetic nanomaterials have numerous potential uses in various disciplines and can provide new solutions to complex problems and open up new avenues for research and innovation.

Biomimetics, Innovations, Nanotechnology, Nature NIL 2023-06-25 Popular Article Pramod A. Pimpale, Swapna Alex and Soni K.B.

Pramod A. Pimpale

Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Swapna Alex*

Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Soni K.B.

Dept. of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

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351 1729607712 Biotica Research Today Challenges and Interest of Students' in Fisheries Sector Agriculture 442-443

Unemployment is one of the basic problems the world is facing. The global population is predicted to exceed 9 billion by 2050, where youths accounted for 14% of the total. With the growing population, there is a huge demand for jobs and food security where the need for young innovative entrepreneurs became crucial. Fisheries, an expanding business provides strong job prospects, food security and significant profit across the nation. The present study was conducted in 2021, towards entrepreneurship among “School of Studies” of postgraduate students of Manipur University (MU). Students of the “School of Life Science” and “School of Social Sciences” were more aware of the potential resource, demand of fish, have more ideas and strategies as compared to other students. Such potent and knowledgeable students should utilize their energy which will facilitate to stste production thereby reducing imports from other states.

Challenges, Entrepreneurship, Fisheries, Students attitudes NIL 2023-06-27 Popular Article Martina Meinam, Mutum Deepti and Teresa Meinam

Martina Meinam*

College of Fisheries, CAU, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

Mutum Deepti

College of Fisheries, GADVASU, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Teresa Meinam

MIMS, Manipur University, Imphal, Manipur (795 003), India

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352 1729609486 Biotica Research Today Integrated Management of Linseed Gall Midge (Dasineura lini Barnes): A Comprehensive Approach to Crop Protection Agriculture 452-454

Among the various insect pests, the gall midge (Dasineura lini Barnes) is considered a major pest of linseed crops. After infection by linseed gall midges, no pods form in linseed plant, because the maggots of these midges feed on buds and blossoms, causing harm by increasing the swelling in tissue. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the better way of managing this harmful threat in the linseed field. IPM involves to the comprehensive evaluation of all pest control techniques currently in use and the subsequent integration of effective strategies to prevent the spread of pest populations. It combines biological, chemical, physical and cultural management techniques to cultivate proper crops with a minimum amount of pesticide use and negative effects, these chemicals cause health hazards to humans and as well as degrade the agro-ecosystem.

Agro-ecosystem, Health hazards, IPM, Linseed gall midge NIL 2023-06-30 Popular Article Saurabh Kumar, Arun Kumar, Jony Kumar, Himanshu Kumar Gupta, Sandip Kumar and Mukesh Kumar Mishra

Saurabh Kumar

Dept. of Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Arun Kumar*

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Jony Kumar

Dept. of Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Himanshu Kumar Gupta

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University, Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh (222 003), India

Sandip Kumar

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Mukesh Kumar Mishra

Dept. of Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

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353 1729687489 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Tricho Cards Preparation Technology and Its Role in Biological Control Agriculture 461-464

Trichogramma is a genus of parasitic wasps that are primarily known for their role as parasitoids in the eggs of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths). However, they can also parasitize the eggs of other insect orders such as Coleoptera (beetles), Diptera (flies), Hemiptera (true bugs), Hymenoptera (ants, bees and wasps) and Neuroptera (lacewings). By targeting the pest in its early developmental stage, Trichogramma can effectively suppress pest populations. One of the key advantages of Trichogramma as a biological control agent is their ability to be mass produced in laboratories. They are easily reared on a variety of host eggs, making large-scale production feasible. Trichogramma has become the most widely produced and utilized biological control agent in the world. Overall, Trichogramma plays a crucial role in integrated pest management strategies by providing a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to pest control in agriculture and horticulture.

Biological control, Eco-friendly, Parasitic wasps, Trichogramma NIL 2023-07-06 Popular Article Arun Kumar, Paritosh Tripathi, Mukesh Kumar Mishra, Akhilesh Kumar Singh, Rakesh Pandey, Saurabh Kumar and Prachi Kushwaha

Arun Kumar

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Paritosh Tripathi

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Mukesh Kumar Mishra

Dept. of Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Akhilesh Kumar Singh

Dept. of Plant Protection, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Rakesh Pandey

Dept. of Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Saurabh Kumar*

Dept. of Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Prachi Kushwaha

Dept. of Agricultural Extension, Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya University, Chitrakoot, Madhya Pradesh (485 334), India

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354 1729688746 Biotica Research Today July (2023) 3D Genome Folding Revolved the Largest Cotton Genome in Gossypium rotundifolium (K2) Agriculture 468-470

The genome's complex, dynamic, and three-dimensional (3D) organization is essential for controlling gene expression. The polyploidy in cotton shows a significant level of complexity in transcriptional regulation, suggesting the existence of complex higher-order chromatin structures. Among the genome of Gossypium species, K2 genome are distinct by having the largest genome size. Gossypium rotundifolium, is the wild diploid cotton, belongs to the member of K genome. The 3D genome arrangement of G. rotundifolium that contributes to 2.44 Gb genome size and a high degree of gene synteny with A and D genomes. Transposable elements have the potential to affect the expansion of genome size, in comparison to the D5 genome, affecting the regulatory relationships between non-coding areas and the transcription of coding genes in the K2 and A2 genomes. These genome size variations render it a valuable model for exploring the 3D genome evolution and transcriptional regulation in cotton.

Cotton, Diploid, K genome, Sequencing NIL 2023-07-09 Popular Article Alagarsamy Manivannan

Alagarsamy Manivannan

ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Regional Station, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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355 1729689716 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Micro-Pollutants on the Environment: Causes, Impacts and Solutions Agriculture 476-479

Micropollutants are substances that originate from human activities and are found in low concentrations (micrograms) in the hydrosphere, lithosphere and atmosphere that impact a negative influence on environmental health. Increased use of synthetic chemicals including agriculture (pesticides and fertilizers), consumer goods (flame retardants, microplastics, perfluorinated compounds), pharmaceuticals (drugs, synthetic hormones), personal hygiene products and industries has resulted in the presence of micropollutants within the human habitat. The article describes micropollutants influence on environment including water contamination, soil degradation and air pollution, as well as adverse impacts on terrestrial and aquatic living beings. Lastly, the article explores various solutions to alleviate the effects of micropollutants, including enhancing waste management systems, implementing more stringent regulations, fostering the development of alternatives and attention to this pressing affair.

Contaminants, Environmental impact, Micropollutant, Solution NIL 2023-07-13 Popular Article Cinnusamy Prabakaran

Cinnusamy Prabakaran

Dept. of Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tiruchchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

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356 1729690585 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Success Story on Participatory Quality Seed Production of Paddy Agriculture 483-485

Quality seed is very essential to improve the productivity of any crops. It is therefore require maintaining the varietal purity of seed and managing the seed borne disease for high quality seed production. Therefore, the main purpose of this paddy seed production approach is to improve the knowledge of farmers about technical and handling activities for production of quality seeds of paddy. The technological and supervisory farming activities will assist to improve the understanding on quality seed production in addition to livelihood enhancement of farmers living in mid-hill area of Senapati district, Manipur. Quality seed provides additional improvement in yield when compared to normal seed. It also helps augmentation of production and of course income of farmers. The products from quality seed can be smoothly reciprocated in the market. If high quality seeds are generated in the mid-hill region of the district, the production of paddy will also be elevated in that region.

Quality seed, Paddy, Seed borne diseases, Livelihood NIL 2023-07-15 Success story R.S. Telem, N. Jyotsna, Deepak Kumar and Romila Akoijam

R.S. Telem*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra - Senapati, Manipur (795 129), India

N. Jyotsna

Krishi Vigyan Kendra - Senapati, Manipur (795 129), India

Deepak Kumar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra - Senapati, Manipur (795 129), India

Romila Akoijam

ICAR-RC for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat, Imphal, Manipur (795 004), India

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357 1729691901 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Techniques of Vegetable Production for Sodicity Agriculture 486-488

Sodic soil is one of the foremost reasons that lead to hindering crop productivity. Soil productivity is more adversely affected due to sodic soil which leads to more root diseases, restricted root development and poor ventilation. Plant growth has a negative effect on exchangeable sodium that is present in soil. Saline soil contains ample dissolved salt that can deplete the fertility of soil. Clay particle’s negative charge absorbs excess sodium under natural conditions and lead to weakening of force holding together the clay particles. Dense layers and block pores are formed in the clay particles when it gets dried. Air and water flow restrictions weaken the aggregation, which leads to structural collapse of the soil.

Clay, Productivity, Sodic soil, Sodium NIL 2023-07-16 Popular Article G. Sidhdharth, K.R. Vijayalatha and P.J. Nivethaa

G. Sidhdharth*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women,
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

K.R. Vijayalatha

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women,
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

P.J. Nivethaa

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women,
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

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358 1729692189 Biotica Research Today July (2023) BDR 10: Yellow Larval Daba Bivoltine Race of Tropical Tasar Silkworm, Antheraea mylitta D. (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) Agriculture 489-490

Tasar silkworm, Antheraea mylitta, is an economically important serigenous insect. The tasar silk industry sustains livelihood of many rural tribal families across the tasar belt of the country. Commercially important tasar ecoraces are Daba and Sukinda. In 2018, new Daba bivoltine race BDR 10 of yellow larval type was authorised. Multilocation trials across the country have proved the superiority of BDR 10 over Daba bivoltine (DBV). BDR 10 have better commercial cocoon characters and viral resistance as compared to DBV. Thus, the present review deals with various aspects of tasar silk worm and stress the need to popularise the new race among the farmers and stakeholders of the tasar sericulture.

BDR 10, Bivoltine, Daba, Tasar silkworm NIL 2023-07-17 Popular Article Sangeeta Dash

Sangeeta Dash

Division of Entomology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa Campus, New Delhi (110 012), India

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359 1729692436 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Xenobots - An Emerging Next-Generation Green Technology to Remove Microplastics in the Ocean Agriculture 491-492

Plastic pollution is one of the burning issues in the world even though plastic has provided various applications that make our life easier. Plastics and microplastics have many negative impacts on the organisms that live in the ocean. In this regard, novel green technology has emerged to remove microplastics in the aquatic environment developed by a group of American scientists and term as xenobots or living machines, which can help to clean microplastics in the ocean.

Environment, Microplastics, Plastic pollution, Xenobots NIL 2023-07-18 Popular Article Angom Baleshwor Singh, David Waikhom, Angom Lenin Singh

Angom Baleshwor Singh

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

David Waikhom*

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Angom Lenin Singh

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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360 1729692721 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Maize Husk: A Potential Substrate for Organic Oyster Mushroom Production in Sikkim Agriculture 493-494

Mushrooms are excellent source of nutrients and secondary metabolites. They are considered as vegetable meat to the vegetarian as it contain a good amount of protein and are also a rich source of Vitamin D. The most common mushroom grown in Sikkim and India is oyster mushroom because of its easy cultivation method, low production cost, versatility and high market value. They are usually cultivated in paddy straw but due to decreasing area in rice cultivation in Sikkim, the availability of paddy straw is becoming scarce and is becoming the limiting factor for oyster mushroom production in Sikkim. To overcome this problem, maize husk has been utilized for successful cultivation of mushroom. It has been a potential source of substrate and can be recommended for the organic oyster mushroom production in Sikkim.

Maize husk, Oyster mushroom, Sikkim, Viable substrate NIL 2023-07-18 Popular Article T.L. Bhutia, S.K. Dutta, E.L. Devi, S.K. Das, Amit Kumar and R. Laha

E.L. Devi

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India

S.K. Das

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India

Amit Kumar

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India

R. Laha

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India

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361 1729693117 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Prospects for the Development of an Artificial Intelligence: Parasites Diagnosis System in Mithun and Allied Bovines Agriculture 495-498

Parasites have detrimental effects on animal health and welfare, leading to clinical and subclinical parasitism. While parasitic infections may not always exhibit obvious disease symptoms, they result in reduced production, including slowed growth, decreased appetite and poor feed conversion. Microscopy is a commonly used method to diagnose livestock parasitic infections, but it presents challenges such as being time-consuming, labour-intensive, requiring specialized equipment and trained researchers. The NEH (North Eastern Hill) region of India faces additional difficulties in finding experts promptly due to limited resources and geographical constraints, resulting in economic losses for farmers, including reduced milk output, meat production and occasional animal mortality. To address this problem, a smart system utilizing AI (Artificial Intelligence) could offer a viable solution by accurately identifying and diagnosing parasitic infections. Such a system would mitigate the scarcity of professionals in the NEH region, providing effective identification and diagnostics of parasite management in livestock.

Artificial intelligence, Machine learning, CNN, Parasites NIL 2023-07-19 Popular Article Jayanta Kumar Chamuah, Livika T. Awomi, Bikash Sarma, Imnatemjen Aier, S.S. Hanah and Meena Das

Jayanta Kumar Chamuah*

ICAR-NRC on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Livika T. Awomi

ICAR-NRC on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Bikash Sarma

National Institute of Technology Nagaland, Chumoukedima, Nagaland (797 103), India

Imnatemjen Aier

ICAR-NRC on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

S.S. Hanah

ICAR-NRC on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Meena Das

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Barapani, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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362 1729748843 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Breeding of Vegetable Crops for Climate Resilient Agriculture 514-517

The scientists are growing concerned as a result of the droughts, rising temperatures and other environmental anomalies. The security of our food supply is now seriously threatened by global warming. The primary sources of dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals for humans are vegetables. Crops that produce vegetables are sensitive to climatic fluctuations. In order to assess agricultural responses to climate change and define priorities for adaptation efforts, it is necessary to be able to reliably predict potential future climate scenarios. One of the workable solutions to tackle climate change is to test the existing germplasm for heat tolerance, drought tolerance and salinity tolerance and use those resistant genotypes in breeding operations. A stronger focus on biotechnological treatments may help to facilitate the effective creation of long-lasting, climate-resistant vegetable types and hybrids.

Breeding, Climate change, Resilient, Vegetables NIL 2023-07-23 Popular Article D. Rameshkumar, E. Naveena, S. Senthilnathan and D. Balu

D. Rameshkumar*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, SRM College of Agricultural Sciences, SRM Institute of Science Technology, Vendhar Nagar, Baburayanpettai, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu (603 201), India

E. Naveena

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Senthilnathan

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam, Vallandu, Tamil Nadu (628 252), India

D. Balu

Dept. of Agricultural Extension, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu (608 002), India

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363 1729749547 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Role of Termite Mounds on Agriculture Agriculture 518-522

In tropical and subtropical soils, termites are important bioturbators and are regarded as soil engineers. Termites typically consume dead plant matter in the form of wood, leaf litter, soil, or animal excrement. 2,600 taxonomically known species out of an estimated 4,000 are thought to be around 10% of the economically significant pests that can seriously harm structures in plantation woods, buildings or agricultural crops. The termite mound plays a major role in nutrient cycling, acts as a biofertilizer inoculum, as a source of biocontrol agents, as an antimicrobial for disease production and as a soil amendment for soil fertility. It plays a major role in nutrient cycling and availability. Microbes isolated from termitaria have a synergistic effect on ectomycorrhizhal symbiosis and Pseudomonas bacteria. The fungi, bacteria and actinomycetes from termitaria showed a selective allelopathic effect on crops. Termite mound soil contains nutrients that are essential for crop growth and development. The several other forms of benefits obtained from termitaria soil are eco-friendly and environmentally sustainable as well.

Biocontrol, Biofertilizer, Microbes, Termitaria NIL 2023-07-24 Popular Article D. Janaki, P. Gunavathi and M.P. Hemavarshini

D. Janaki*

Agricultural College & Research Institute, Kudumiyanmalai, Tamil Nadu (622 104), India

P. Gunavathi

Agricultural College & Research Institute, Kudumiyanmalai, Tamil Nadu (622 104), India

M.P. Hemavarshini

Agricultural College & Research Institute, Kudumiyanmalai, Tamil Nadu (622 104), India

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364 1729750601 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Biochar Technique: To Mitigate Greenhouse Gases Agriculture 526-528

The process of pyrolysis, which includes heating organic materials like agricultural waste, wood chips or other biomass in the absence of oxygen, produces biochar, a type of charcoal. This process breaks down the organic matter and converts it into a stable form of carbon. The use of biochar dates back thousands of years, as indigenous communities in the Amazon basin used a similar technique called terra preta to enrich their soils. Biochar has gained renewed interest in recent times due to its potential benefits in agriculture and environmental sustainability. It's important to note that while biochar has significant potential benefits; its effectiveness can vary depending on factors such as feedstock type, production methods, soil type and climate conditions. The wide research is ongoing throughout the world to completely understand its impact on different ecosystems and to improve its application in various scenarios.

Climate change, Denitrification, Mitigation, Pyrolysis NIL 2023-07-25 Popular Article Abhinav Yadav, Jaswant Prajapati, Archana Upadhyay, Rahul Kumar and Saniya Syed

Abhinav Yadav*

Dept. of Agronomy, 3Dept. of Vegetable Science, CSAUA&T, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Jaswant Prajapati

Dept. of Vegetable Science, PAU, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Archana Upadhyay

Dept. of Vegetable Science, CSAUA&T, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Rahul Kumar

Dept. of Vegetable Science, CSAUA&T, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Saniya Syed

Dept. of Soil Science, BUA&T, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

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365 1729752060 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Integrated Approaches for Management of Major Insect Pests of Kharif Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.) Agriculture 529-532

Green gram (Vigna radiata) of Fabaceae is an important legume crop vulnerable to various insect pests, impacting its productivity and yield. The insect management strategies to protect green in such a way that it environmentally viable. Preventive cultural practices, including crop rotation and planting resistant varieties, reduce pest pressure. Early detection through regular monitoring allows timely intervention. Biological control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects, offer sustainable and eco-friendly pest regulation. Mechanical control through handpicking can be employed on a small scale. Trap crops divert pests away from the main crop. As a last resort, natural-based pesticides may be used, but chemical pesticides are discouraged due to their environmental impact. Integrating these approaches into an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) system ensures effective control green gram crops from insect pest.

Eco-friendly, Light Trap, Pest-repellent, Prothorax NIL 2023-07-26 Popular Article Shailja Jaiswal, Raghuveer Choudhary, Ajit Pandey, Deeksha Singh and Ashutosh Singh Aman

Shailja Jaiswal*

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Raghuveer Choudhary

Dept. of Agronomy, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Ajit Pandey

Dept. of Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Deeksha Singh

Dept. of Entomology, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh (210 001), India

Ashutosh Singh Aman

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

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366 1729752572 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Processing and Grading of Wool Agriculture 533-536

The value and final usage of wool are determined by a number of characteristics, including fineness, length, colour and appearance. One of the most crucial of these quality variables is fineness, which refers to the fibre diameter, grade and distribution. Whether or not the wool is utilised for a suit, jumper, blanket or pair of socks mostly depends on its fineness. The average diameter or thickness of the fibres is generally referred to as grade. The American or Blood method, the Spinning Count system and the Micron type system are the three ways of grading wool that are most frequently used in the United States. The average fibre diameter is measured by all three techniques and they are all comparable. This article discuss about the steps involved in processing and grading of wool.

Blood system, Grading, Processing, Wool NIL 2023-07-27 Popular Article Raghy Radhakrishnan and J. Tamizhkumaran

Raghy Radhakrishnan*

Dept. of LPM, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research, Kurumbapet, Pondicherry (605 009), India

J. Tamizhkumaran

Veterinary Services, Dvara E Dairy, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 113), India

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367 1729752960 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Case Study on Popularization of Paddy Drum Seeding Technology in Kallakurichi of Tamil Nadu Agriculture 537-539

In Kallakurichi district, Paddy is the predominant crop and is being cultivated in an area of 60,000 ha in three seasons. Most of the farmers engaged in transplanted rice cultivation. Due to water shortage during transplanting time resulted in poor crop growth. To overcome these issues, KVK, Kallakurichi has introduced and popularized direct sowing of paddy through supply of Paddy drum seeder on custom hiring basis for the benefit of farming communities. As a result of the KVK intervention, now 167 farmers in Chinnasalem and Kallakurichi block cultivated paddy under drum seeding technology in Kar season in an area of 276 acres with reduced cost of cultivation.

Direct sowing, Drum seeding, Paddy, Water shortage NIL 2023-07-28 Case Study C. Sharmila Bharathi, S. Alagudurai and D. Thirunavukkarasu

C. Sharmila Bharathi*

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra - Kallakurichi, Directorate of Extension Education, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Kallakurichi (Villupuram II), Tamil Nadu (606 301), India

S. Alagudurai

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra - Namakkal, Directorate of Extension Education, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu (637 002), India

D. Thirunavukkarasu

Dept. of Animal Husbandry Extension, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu (637 002), India

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368 1729753391 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Carbon Emissions from Kerala Reservoirs: An Estimation Study Agriculture 540-542

Reservoirs in Kerala serve a variety of purposes, including fisheries, which can potentially contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study attempts to estimate methane and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from reservoir fisheries as a precursor for promoting it as sustainable development. The carbon emissions from small, medium and large reservoirs from Kerala were estimated at 314.25, 644.82 and 184.8 tonnes km-2day-1. Despite being conserved, Peechi reservoir alone is a source of 1.2 tonnes of methane km-2day-1 and 36 tonnes of carbon dioxide km-2day-1, respectively. GHG emission from Pothundi reservoir can be estimated at 1.089 tonnes km-2 of CO2 eq. and 0.363 tonnes km-2 of CH4. These carbon foot print estimates where less compared to the same from aquaculture ponds and marine fisheries of India. This in turn explains the need for development for reservoir fisheries as it adheres to sustainable development goals.

GHG, Kerala, Reservoirs, SDG NIL 2023-07-29 Case Study Thankam Theresa Paul, Abhirami Sajeevan, Albin Albert C., Deepa Sudheesan, Sandhya K.M. and B.K. Das

Thankam Theresa Paul*

ICAR-CIFRI Kochi Centre, CMFRI Campus, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

Abhirami Sajeevan

ICAR-CIFRI Kochi Centre, CMFRI Campus, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

Albin Albert C.

ICAR-CIFRI Kochi Centre, CMFRI Campus, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

Deepa Sudheesan

ICAR-CIFRI Kochi Centre, CMFRI Campus, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

Sandhya K.M.

ICAR-CIFT, Kochi, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

B.K. Das

ICAR-CIFRI, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

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369 1729754205 Biotica Research Today July (2023) Speed Breeding Technique in Maize: Status and Prospects Agriculture 543-546

The pursuit of crop breeding for achieving global food security has been hindered by the lengthy breeding cycles required to develop suitable cultivars. Breeding efforts have long aimed to reduce crop duration with each successive generation. Speed breeding (SB) has developed as an innovative technology, offering the potential to hasten crop improvement through rapid generation advancement (RGA) and shorten the breeding cycle. SB's customized growth chambers play a crucial role in expediting plant phenotyping, crossing, mutant studies and transformation research. Although numerous crop-specific protocols for SB have been successfully developed for rice, wheat, barley and others; the SB protocol for maize remains to be established. Given the diverse applications and economic significance of maize, its production must be increased to meet future demand, making SB a promising approach for achieving this goal. This article examines the current status of SB and explores its potential for successful implementation in the future.

Double haploid, Shuttle breeding, Speed breeding, Variety development NIL 2023-07-30 Popular Article Pratikshya Mishra and Smruti Ranjan Padhan

Pratikshya Mishra

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Smruti Ranjan Padhan*

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa campus, New Delhi (110 012), India

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370 1729859389 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Bio-Fertilizer: An Organic Approach for Sustaining Soil Health Agriculture 001-002

Balanced fertilization is very important in relation to crop growth and soil health. Over the year, fertilizer use has increased substantially that causing several environmental hazards, degradation of soil physical conditions and also declination of factor productivity. So, there is a need to shift farmers view towards organic food production. Bio-fertilizer, as a component of organic agriculture improves soil and plant health. It uses microorganisms for atmospheric nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization and organic matter decomposition. However, Bio-fertilizer use is not fully adopted and explored by the small and marginal farmers due to poor extension work and technological skills. This article attempts to provide the overall concept of bio-fertilizer and its role in agriculture.

Bio-fertilizer, Nitrogen fixation, Soil health, Phosphorus mobilizer NIL 2022-01-05 Popular Article Priyanka Saha, Anamika Barman and Anurag Bera

Priyanka Saha*

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Anamika Barman

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Anurag Bera

Dept. of Agronomy, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Bihar (848 125), India

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371 1729859773 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Prospect of Medicinal Plant Cultivation in Marginal and Degraded Lands Agriculture 003-006

Land degradation is a common problem and almost 20% of the geographical area of India is occupied by the degraded land. To meet the global need of the population, restoration of degraded and marginal land is important for social-economic and environmental point of view. Conventional reclamation strategies like physico-chemical and biological method are not practical and cost-intensive. Revegetation could be a good rehabilitation process for degraded land. For this medicinal plant can be considered as a good candidate for revegetation since under stress condition medicinal plant produces large quantities of secondary metabolites which can help them to alleviate the stress they faced when grown in degraded land. Moreover, cultivation of medicinal plant is also lucrative option due to production of high-added-value final products. Therefore, adoption of medicinal plant in degraded and marginal land may help to restore this wasteland and also to achieve the objectives of sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Degraded land, Ecological benefits, Medicinal plant, Secondary metabolites NIL 2022-01-06 Popular Article B. B. Basak, Ajoy Saha, Sowmya N., Rohan Sarkar and A. P. Trivedi

B. B. Basak*

ICAR-Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research, Anand, Gujarat (387 310), India

Ajoy Saha

ICAR-Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research, Anand, Gujarat (387 310), India

Regional Centre of ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 089), India

Sowmya N.

ICAR-Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research, Anand, Gujarat (387 310), India

Rohan Sarkar

ICAR-Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research, Anand, Gujarat (387 310), India

A. P. Trivedi

ICAR-Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research, Anand, Gujarat (387 310), India

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372 1729860385 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Fish Stocking Strategies in Natural Water Bodies: A Tool for Sustainable Fisheries Management Agriculture 007-010

Natural waters are the primary fisheries resources in our country due to their immense area and enormous production potential. Aside from enabling quick production increases with minimal capital investment and being environmental, fisheries development in natural water bodies or reservoirs directly benefits some of our society's most vulnerable members. The benefits acquired as a result of increased yield and income generation directly contribute to the improvement of fishermen's quality of life. Stocking is necessary to enlarge species spectrum and correct imbalances in the utilization of different ecological niches. Stocking in small water-bodies is a form of enhancement that is typically undertaken on a regular basis to enhance culture based fisheries and sustaining the fisheries resources. As a result, stocking density, size at stocking, size at harvesting, rate of fishing mortality, and harvesting schedule all play a significant role to achieving the best yield from natural resources.

Fisheries, Natural waters, Restoration, Stock enhancement NIL 2022-01-07 Popular Article Suman Takar, Niranjan Sarang, Khemraj Bunkar and Udai Ram Gurjar

Suman Takar

Dept. of Fisheries Resource Management, College of Fisheries, CGKV, Kawardha, Chhattisgarh (491995), India

Niranjan Sarang

Dept. of Fisheries Resource Management, College of Fisheries, CGKV, Kawardha, Chhattisgarh (491995), India

Khemraj Bunkar

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Udai Ram Gurjar*

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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373 1729861195 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Energy Conservation in Fish Harvesting - Looking beyond the Horizon Agriculture 014-017

Asia has the world's largest fishing fleet, with 3.1 million vessels (68 percent) of all vessels in the world. At an average tonnes per live weight of marine fish landed in India, annual fuel usage in mechanised and motorised vessels is predicted to be 1,378.8 million litres, emitting around 3.13 million tonnes of CO2. Energy efficiency in fishing systems is influenced by the design of fishing gear, vessels, and engines. Climate and oceanic changes are irreversible as a result of the greenhouse effect. Furthermore, rising oil costs may have a significant impact on the economic feasibility of fishing. In light of these consequences, many countries around the world have implemented large-scale energy saving programmes.

Conservation, Craft, Energy, Engine NIL 2022-01-09 Popular Article A. Sivasureyan, S. Mariappan and R. Velmurugan

A. Sivasureyan*

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kochi (682 506), India

S. Mariappan

Dept of Fishing Technology and Fisheries Engineering, Fisheries College and Research Institute Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithha Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu, (628 008), India

R. Velmurugan

Dept of Fishing Technology and Fisheries Engineering, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithha Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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374 1729861784 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Vertical Farming: Can Solve the Challenge of Growing Food Demand? Agriculture 018-022

Vertical farming (VF) is a novel plant production system that allows local production of high-quality fruits and vegetables for rapidly growing cities. VF offers a myriad of opportunities to move from genetic to environmental modification and to produce crops of guaranteed quality and quantity independent of weather, soil conditions, or climate change. Faced with fewer resources, successfully feeding the world will require more innovative and reliable ways to grow safe food. Vertical farming also allows for a wider variety of crops to be grown at once versus conventional farming which often uses mono-cropping techniques where only one crop is grown year after year. VF is a novel, climate-smart solution that could potentially address these demands.

Agriculture land, Climate change, Food demand, Vertical farming NIL 2022-01-10 Popular Article V.D. Meena, M.L. Dotaniya, M.D. Meena, M.K. Meena, R.L. Choudhary, Harvir Singh and R.S. Jat

V.D. Meena*

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

M.L. Dotaniya

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

M.D. Meena

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

M.K. Meena

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

R.L. Choudhary

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

Harvir Singh

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

R.S. Jat

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

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375 1729862587 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Tea Mosquito Bug - A New Threat to Cotton Crop Agriculture 023-025

Helopeltis theivora, also known as Tea Mosquito Bug (TMB), a serious pest of tea, cashew and cocoa. It causes even 100% yield loss if unnoticed. This pest has many alternate hosts from cash crops, vegetables and weeds also. Apart from main hosts, tea mosquito bug survive on a number of non-host plants which facilitate them to sustain throughout the year. Recent literature revealed that every year the host range of this pest is expanding from all over the country. Infestation of Tea Mosquito Bug, Helopeltis theivora was recorded on cotton during 2018. The expanding host range of TMB on economically important plants warrants extensive pest surveillance and intensive monitoring mechanism for designing effective pest management solutions.

Cotton, Emerging threat, Management, Tea mosquito bug NIL 2022-01-12 Popular Article M. Amutha and S. Usha Rani

M. Amutha*

ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Regional Station, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Usha Rani

ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Regional Station, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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376 1729862869 Biotica Research Today January (2022) An Insight into GreenSeeker Technology: A Vital Tool for Precision Nutrient Management Agriculture 026-028

Nitrogen is necessary for plant growth and development. The global nitrogen utilisation efficiency for cereals and row crops is only 33%. Denitrification, volatilization, and leaching accounts for around 67 percent of fertiliser nitrogen loss. Due to field variations in soil nitrogen supply, varietal variability, and agro-climatic variables, nitrogenous fertiliser efficiency is limited. Large temporal and field-to-field variability inhibits the efficient use of nitrogenous fertilisers when broad-based general fertiliser recommendations are applied. Precision nutrient management for nitrogen application can be utilised to improve fertiliser efficiency while also lowering production costs. GreenSeeker is one of the most effective instruments for managing nitrogenous fertiliser inputs with precision, and it helps to avoid fertiliser overuse. It can be used to estimate the accurate amount of nitrogen to be applied at critical period of crop growth.

NDVI, NIR, Nitrogen use efficiency, Optical sensors NIL 2022-01-17 Popular Article Swetaleena Mahana, Smruti Ranjan Padhan and Soumya Ranjan Padhan

Swetaleena Mahana

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Smruti Ranjan Padhan*

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Soumya Ranjan Padhan

Dept. of Agronomy, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

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377 1729864464 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Participatory Seed Production of Maize in Ri-Bhoi District, Meghalaya: A Success Story Agriculture 036-037

In North East India, Maize is the second most important crop after rice and plays a significant role in consumption, fodder and feed supply. The productivity of maize in the state is quite lower than the national average of maize productivity (2.965 kg ha-1). In Meghalaya, Maize is grown in 29,568 ha land with production of 69,156 MT and productivity of 2,339 Kg ha-1. Growing the low yielding traditional local varieties is one among the reasons for low productivity. In this way introduction of an open pollinated composite maize variety with high yield potential will be quite effective in Meghalaya.

Benefit cost ratio, Maize, Participatory seed production, Productivity NIL 2022-01-21 Success story Amit Kumar, Nivedita Shettigar, Philanim W.S. and Subhash Babu

Amit Kumar*

Plant Breeding Section, Crop Science Division, ICAR-RC NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Nivedita Shettigar

Plant Breeding Section, Crop Science Division, ICAR-RC NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Philanim W.S.

Plant Breeding Section, Crop Science Division, ICAR-RC NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Subhash Babu

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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378 1729864968 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Mounting of Silkworms: It’s Importance in Sericulture for Rearers under Subtropical Condition of North-West India Agriculture 038-042

To obtain quality cocoons, mounting the silkworm larvae at the appropriate time and good quality mountages are essential. Under Subtropical condition of North-West India rearers using mostly locally available mounting material viz., paddy/ wheat/ mustard straw, mango/ eucalyptus leaves etc. In the fifth instar on seventh and sixth day silkworms enter into maturation and stop feeding and begin to search place to build cocoons during spring and autumn season respectively. When larvae are in spinning stage, the room temperature 23-24 °C and 60-70 percent relative humidity along with good ventilation facility to be provided. However, for commercial exploitation rearers should take lot of care during mounting operations and wrong mounting, unsuitable mountages, adverse conditions during spinning and no/less mounting care affect all the economic parameters of the cocoon and in turn silk. Finally cocoons are to be harvested carefully and cleaned to eliminate bad cocoons otherwise it reduces the cost of cocoons.

Cocoon, Mounting, Mounting material, Optimum condition NIL 2022-01-22 Popular Article Murali, S. and Sardar Singh

Murali, S.*

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board, Miran Sahib, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir (181 101), India

Sardar Singh

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Pampore, Jammu and Kashmir (192 121), India

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379 1729865693 Biotica Research Today January (2022) 3D Printing - Faster and Easier Coral Restoration Technique Agriculture 045-049

Coral reefs are one of the most productive ecosystems and most abundant species on Earth. In the past few decades, coral reef communities experience profound changes at a global scale as a consequence of climate change and anthropogenic disturbance. Artificial reefs have been traditionally used to create a sheltered area for fish and other aquatic organism, thus, regenerate damaged ecosystems. Currently, 3D printing technology offers significant advantages in the development of objects and tools across an array of fields and has been implemented in an increasing number of ecological studies. Therefore, this article summarize different 3D printing technologies that have been used in coral reef restoration.

3D Printing, Bioprinting, Coral reefs, Restoration NIL 2022-01-24 Popular Article Sudarshan S., Rathi Bhuvaneswari G., S.P. Shukla and Aanand S.

Sudarshan S.*

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

Rathi Bhuvaneswari G.

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharastra (400 061), India

S.P. Shukla

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharastra (400 061), India

Aanand S.

Erode Centre for Sustainable Aquaculture, Bhavanisagar, Erode, Tamil Nadu (638 451), India

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380 1729866182 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Algae as a Source of Energy in the Future Agriculture 050-052

Future energy usually refers to energy sources that have not yet been explored or are still in the research/ pre-commercial stage. Furthermore, future energy is linked to redefining primary energy usage, such as cooking and heating, through the application of current methods and energy technologies. Algae-based energy has aided the growth of the global economy and the advancement of human civilisation.

Algae, Algae cultivation, Bio-fuel, Energy source NIL 2022-01-25 Popular Article Sumit Mallick

Sumit Mallick

College of Fisheries Science, AAU, Raha, Nagaon, Assam (782 103), India

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381 1729914573 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Novel Bacteriophage Therapy against Bacterial Pathogen in Fish Agriculture 063-066

Cultured fishes are constantly threatened by microbial infections because of various stress conditions resulting into occurrence of infectious diseases. Broad-spectrum antibiotics are commonly used against these bacterial infections. Due to the excessive use of antibiotics, several bacteria have developed resistance against pathogen. Many advanced methods are being developed to overcome this problem, wherein bacteriophages are bacteria-eating viruses have more sensitivity, specificity, host range and efficacy than antibiotics and are now being used as an antibiotic replacer in different food items, guarding pregnancy, treating surgical wounds and protecting aquaculture. Bacteriophages are currently being synthesized and commercialized in all three form which includes, solid, liquid, gas forms. The recent advancements and applications of bacteriophage therapy in eliminating bacterial infections, especially in the food and aquaculture industry and due to its increased therapeutic applications, considered to be a strong candidate to prove its true potential to treat pathogenic microorganism.

Bacteriophage therapy, Bacterial pathogen, Biocontrol agents, Fish disease NIL 2022-01-29 Popular Article S. Saravanan, A. Uma, D. Kaviarasu and A. Gopalakannan

S. Saravanan*

Dept. of Aquatic Animal Health Management, Dr. M. G. R Fisheries College and Research Institute (Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University), Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

A. Uma

Dept. of Aquatic Animal Health Management, Dr. M. G. R Fisheries College and Research Institute (Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University), Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

D. Kaviarasu

Dept. of Aquatic Animal Health Management, Dr. M. G. R Fisheries College and Research Institute (Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University), Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

A. Gopalakannan

Dept. of Aquatic Animal Health Management, Dr. M. G. R Fisheries College and Research Institute (Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University), Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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382 1729915299 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Adaptations in Some Ornamental Plants Agriculture 067-070

Adaptations are special features that allow a plant or animal to live in a particular place or habitat. There are three types of plant adaptations: structural adaptations, behavioral adaptations, and physiological adaptations. Structural, behavioral and physiological adaptations of some important ornamentals such as trees, shrubs, climbers, herbaceous perennials, shade tolerant plants, hibiscus, bougainvillea, roses, cacti and succulents, bulbous ornamentals, bromeliads, aquatic ornamentals, orchids and ornamental palms are described in details.

Adaptations, Defense, Spines, Stomata NIL 2022-01-30 Popular Article L.C. De

L.C. De

ICAR-NRC for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

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383 1729915625 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Terminalia arjuna: An Important Ethnomedicinal Plant Exhibited Effective Nutri-Health Benefits in Fish Agriculture 071-073

Aquaculture is the fastest-growing food-producing sector in the world, including India. According to the forecast, there will be a major demand-supply imbalance for a lower-cost protein source to keep up with the rapidly expanding population in the coming years. Indian major carps (IMCs) are the focus of Indian aquaculture. In order to close the gap between demand and supply, cultural activities must be stepped up. Every step toward intensification brings with it a slew of issues related to illness and nutritional control. Despite the use of antibiotics for illness prevention, there is a need to develop a viable alternative to such unpleasant substances. Anti-inflammatory and nutritional properties have been demonstrated by the herbs. The ethno-medicinal importance of miracle plant Terminalia arjuna being used as a fish feed additive to improve fish immunity, development, and survival. It has been shown to have numerous health advantages for humans. An overview of T. arjuna's impact on fish's nutritional health is presented in this article.

Anti-inflammatory, Ethnomedicinal plant, Nutri-fish, Terminalia arjuna NIL 2022-01-30 Popular Article D.K. Meena, B.K. Das and A.K. Sahoo

D.K. Meena

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

B.K. Das*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

A.K. Sahoo

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

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384 1729915924 Biotica Research Today January (2022) Radiation Induced Mutation Breeding in Papaya (Carica papaya L.) Agriculture 074-076

Creation of variability is a prerequisite for crop improvement in any plant breeding programme. Spontaneous mutations have played an important role in the improvement certain characters in some of the fruit crops. Induction of variability using physical mutagen, gamma rays has been used for long time by breeders. Papaya is a polygamous plant three basic types of flowers viz. male, female and hermaphrodite (bisexual). Irradiation-induced mutation is increasingly used as a complementary tool in plant breeding. As per Case study I, induction of variability in two cultivars of papaya viz. Coorg Honey Dew and Sunrise Solo was tried using gamma rays. As per Case study II, the objectives were to generate variability in papaya variety Eksotika by gamma irradiation and to screen for variants that have resistance to ring spot virus disease and delayed fruit ripening characteristics.

Flower biology, Mutagen, Mutation, Papaya NIL 2022-01-31 Popular Article Gita R. Chaudhari, Sheetal Patel and Shridhar Ragi

Gita R. Chaudhari*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat (388 110), India

Sheetal Patel

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Regional Rice Research Station, Navsari Agricultural University, Vyara, Gujarat (388 110), India

Shridhar Ragi

Division of Genetics, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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385 1729944994 Biotica Research Today Application of Medicinal Herbal Plants in Aquaculture Agriculture 077-081

Global aquaculture development increased significantly over the past few decades, and the sector has been mainly affected by disease outbreaks due to intensive culture practices. Antibiotics have been used to control infectious diseases but their residues accumulated in the animal tissues, remain in the aquatic environment, posing a risk to the consumer’s health and causing environmental pollution. The use of medicinal herbal plants as natural and innocuous compounds has potential in aquaculture as an alternative to antibiotics and immunoprophylactics. Medicinal herbal plants have active compounds such as tannins, alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins, phenolics, steroids, and flavonoids that posses various biological activities. This article is to be highlighted the applications of medicinal herbal plant extracts or their combinations act as the anaesthetic compounds, appetite stimulator, growth promoter, antistress, antioxidant, immunostimulants, antiviral, antibacterial, antiparasitic and antifungal agents in aquaculture.

Aquaculture, Antibiotics, Herbal medicines, Medicinal plant NIL 2022-02-05 Popular Article D. Kaviarasu, T. Thilagavathi, A. Uma, S. Saravanan and A. Gopalakannan

D. Kaviarasu*

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

T. Thilagavathi

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

A. Uma

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

S. Saravanan

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

A. Gopalakannan

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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386 1729945492 Biotica Research Today Recent Innovates on the Development of Solar Dryers Agriculture 082-084

Drying has been practiced since time immemorial for preserving fish. Sun drying, salting and smoking are considered as traditional methods for preserving fish. Most commonly performed fish preservation techniques was drying and salting. The advent of modern techniques of preservation such as freezing and canning reduced the importance of older methods. Nevertheless, the traditional methods were still in practice. In India, the export of dried and cured fish products has been declined due to the account of low quality. Sun drying hardly involves any expenditure as sun’s radiation is plentifully available for free of cost. Solar dryer technology can be utilized in small-scale food processing industries for producing hygienic, high-quality food products. It promotes renewable energy sources as income-generating units, apart from saving the world from the ill effects of climate change. The products produced with the solar dryer’s attained superior quality due to the advantage of controlling the parameters that influence quality and drying rate.

Salting, Smoking, Solar Dryer, Traditional methods NIL 2022-02-07 Popular Article Vimaladevi S., Krishnaveni K.N., Sudarshan S., Vijayarahavan V. and Alamelu V.

Vimaladevi S.*

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

Krishnaveni K.N.

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

Sudarshan S.

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

Vijayarahavan V.

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

Alamelu V.

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

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387 1729946030 Biotica Research Today Newly Found NeoCov COVID Variant from Bats Possibly Deadlier than Previous Strain Agriculture 085-087

News of the emergence of a new type of coronavirus claimed that this new virus, called NeoCov, was discovered in South Africa amongst bats, and it could enter human cells. The news reports are based on a Chinese research paper that is yet to be peer-reviewed. NeoCov is closely related to the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), a viral disease first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. The virus carries the high mortality rate as MERS-CoV and the high transmission rate as the current Covid virus. NeoCov can penetrate human cells in the same way as SARSCoV2. NeoCov does not infect humans in its current form, but further mutations may potentially make it harmful. As per the scientists, the NeoCov infection could not be neutralized by antibodies that target the Covid virus.

Bats, Covid, MERS-CoV, NeoCov NIL 2022-02-08 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Pranaya Pradhan, Sudhanya Nath and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Pranaya Pradhan

Dept. of Nematology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Sudhanya Nath

Dept. of Animal Nutrition, West Bengal University of Animal & Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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388 1729946436 Biotica Research Today Photobacterium damselae subsp. damselae Infection in Marine Fishes - A Review Agriculture 088-090

Photobacterium damselae subsp. damselae is a bacterial disease affecting wild and cage culture fishes. Its etiological agent, the gram negative bacterium Photobacterium damselae subsp. damsela, is responsible for important economic losses in cultured fish worldwide. It has been isolated from epizootic outbreaks affecting several cultured fish species especially Gilthead seabream, Sparus aurata and European seabass, Dicentrarchus labrax and new cultured marine fish species. Moreover, this pathogen has been reported to cause diseases in human, and for this reason, it may be considered as zoonotic pathogen. Photobacterium damselae subsp. damselae is a facultative anaerobic, Gram negative rod, weakly motile. Furthermore, molecular methods represent an improvement over classical microbiological techniques for the identification of P. damselae subsp. damselae and the diagnosis of the disease. The complete sequencing, annotation, and analysis of the pathogen genome will provide insights into the pathogen laying the groundwork for the development of vaccines and diagnostic methods.

Cage culture, Photobacterium damselae subsp. damselae, Vaccine, Wild fish NIL 2022-02-09 Popular Article Petchimuthu, M., Kalaiselvan, P. and Kaviarasu, D.

Petchimuthu, M.*

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

Kalaiselvan, P.

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

Kaviarasu, D.

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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389 1729946801 Biotica Research Today Application of Nanotechnology in Weed Management Agriculture 091-092

Nanoherbicides being smaller in size and posessing large surface area : volume ratio are more potent than the synthetic herbicides. Micro emulsions of herbicides protects them from being degraded from various sources hence increase their residual activity. Nanocarriers help in slow and gradual release of herbicide molecules thereby increasing their efficiency. Herbicide sensors can trace the entry, movement and metabolism of herbicides in plant. Although the nanoherbicides are ecologically, socially and economically more advantageous than the synthetic herbicides still more extensive research is needed to be done in this field to have a clearer understanding about their field level response and impact on ecosystem.

Emulsion, Nanocarriers, Nanoherbicides, Sensors NIL 2022-02-10 Popular Article Madhab Kumar Datta, Rasmirekha Pattnaik and Sahuji Bandyopadhyay

Madhab Kumar Datta*

Dept. of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Sri Sri University, Sri Sri Vihar, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

Rasmirekha Pattnaik

Dept. of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Sri Sri University, Sri Sri Vihar, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

Sahuji Bandyopadhyay

Dept. of Agronomy and Agroforestry, MS Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha (761 211), India

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390 1729947166 Biotica Research Today Important Pests of Potato and Their Management Agriculture 093-095

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is the most important dicotyledonous plant and important source of human food. It is an important cash crop of India and the fifth major food crop of the world. The crop requires cool, temperate regions or elevation of approximately 2,000 m. The cultivation needs cool nights and well drained soil with good moisture. But the crop is attacked by variety of insects. The crop yield has increased steadily but the pest has been a major constraint limiting the crop yield potential. Due to diverse climate of India, the insects differ in their feeding habits. The pests of potato can be classified as sucking pest or sap/ foliage feeders, defoliators, nematodes, etc.

Damage, Infestation, Pest, Potato NIL 2022-01-12 Popular Article Roop Singh Dangi, Neelam Singh, Ekta Joshi and Deep Singh Sasode

Roop Singh Dangi

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Neelam Singh*

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Ekta Joshi

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Deep Singh Sasode

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

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391 1729949404 Biotica Research Today Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPRS) and Their Mechanisms of Action Agriculture 103-105

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs) are an important group of microbial communities that exerts beneficial effects on plant growth upon root colonization. These are free-living bacteria that benefit the growth of plants by colonizing the rhizosphere. The PGPRs improve the plant growth mainly through two types of mechanisms either directly improving the plant growth or by indirect ways. Directly the PGPRs improve plant growth by enhancing the availability of nutrients like N, P, Fe etc. and producing different phytohormones. The PGPRs indirectly help in plant growth by antagonism against pathogens, competition with the pathogens and inducing the host resistance.

Induced resistance, Microbial antagonism, PGPR, Phytohormone NIL 2022-02-16 Popular Article Jagdish Yadav, Ashok Kumar Mahawer, Prashantha S.T. and Heerendra Prasad Sagar

Jagdish Yadav*

Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

Ashok Kumar Mahawer

Division of FHT, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

Prashantha S.T.

Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (110 012), India

Heerendra Prasad Sagar

Dept. of Fruit Science, DRYSPUHF, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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392 1729950792 Biotica Research Today Mountages used in Sericulture for Quality Cocoon Production of Mulberry Silkworm, Bombyx mori L. Agriculture 113-117

Mulberry silkworm starts spinning of cocoons with the support of mounting material. Mountages should provide sufficient and uniform space for spinning to form cocoons. The fabrication and types of mountages depends on locally available and cheap materials in the respective places. If the material and structure of mountages are not proper, it will affect shape and size of cocoons besides increasing double, deformed and soiled cocoons thereby wastage of silk in the form of floss. Most common mountages used in India particularly in Southern parts and West Bengal are bamboo chandrika, screen type bamboo mountage, collapsible plastic mountage and bamboo strip mountages whereas North India or North West Indian states due to lack of adequate rearing space and rearing equipment farmers on maturity they do not pick the worms, but simply keep/ spread the locally available material like paddy/ wheat/ mustard straw or any type of plant material over the rearing bed so as to allow the worms to crawl over the mounting material for spinning of cocoons.

Cocoon, Mountages, Mulberry silkworm, Spinning NIL 2022-02-18 Popular Article Murali, S. and Sardar Singh

Murali, S.*

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board, Miran Sahib, Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir (181 101), India

Sardar Singh

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Pampore, Jammu and Kashmir (192 121), India

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393 1729951148 Biotica Research Today Potato Processing, Its Status and Need in India Agriculture 118-120

Potato acreage and production have been steadily increasing over the years in India resulting in market gluts. Based on current data, potato production continues to grow, so surplus potato should be used and processed to avoid wasting this precious food. Processing potato and adding value is necessary for better use. The availability of raw potatoes is high only during the harvest season, and the availability of raw potatoes for processing is low for most of the year. Therefore, storage of potato is important to ensure that sufficient quantities of potato are available year-round for processing. Processing can open up a new dimension of small-scale farming and small-scale farming income. Consumer preferences and pattern of consumption needs to be evaluated to predict the acceptance of new products. This helps to prioritize the standardization of products that have a good future and demand in the market.

Glut, Potato, Processing, Storage NIL 2022-02-19 Popular Article Roop Singh Dangi, Neelam Singh, Ekta Joshi and Deep Singh Sasode

Roop Singh Dangi

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Neelam Singh*

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Ekta Joshi

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Deep Singh Sasode

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

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394 1729952189 Biotica Research Today Time Series Analysis Agriculture 126-128

Time-series analysis is a statistical technique of analyzing data of chronological order on a single unit or individual at regular intervals over a large number of observations such as data on production, sales, area, prices, import, export etc. Time-series analysis can be considered as the model of longitudinal designs. The most generally utilized methodology is based on the class of models known as Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average models. ARIMA models can address several major classes of research questions, including an analysis of basic processes, intervention analysis, and analysis of the pattern of treatment effects over time. It can also be useful in to identify structural change in data.

Cyclic variation, Forecasting, Stationary, Time series NIL 2022-02-21 Popular Article Vaibhav Chittora

Vaibhav Chittora

Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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395 1729952771 Biotica Research Today Generalized Least Square Method for Regression Analysis Agriculture 132-134

In regression analysis while estimating the parameters our data should follow the assumption of classical regression to have the valid estimator of the regression parameters. Sometime while estimating the parameter data does not follow the assumption of classical regression like constant variance of residual and autocorrelation of residual in that situation classical approach of estimating the regression parameter ordinary least square will not give valid estimators in that situation generalized least square will used.

GLS, OLS, Variance matrix NIL 2022-02-22 Popular Article Vaibhav Chittora

Vaibhav Chittora

Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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396 1729953019 Biotica Research Today Bisphenol Alcohol and Its Endocrine-Disruptive Effects on Aquatic Organisms Agriculture 135-136

Bisphenol Alcohol is called as “endocrine disruptor” [BPA;2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propane], which is mainly used in the production of epoxy resins and polycarbonate plastics. It is acutely toxic to aquatic organisms. Due to intensified usage of these products, exposure of organisms to BPA via several routes, such as the environment and food. The aquatic organisms an important area for the study of BPA. It creates the impacts on environment through aquatic organisms. BPA effects on aquatic organisms include inhibition of gametogenesis, development of intersex gonads, alteration of the gonadosomatic index, and decreased fertility rate have been largely documented. Study explained the review of the endocrine disruptive effects especially in invertebrates.

Aquatic Organisms, Bisphenol Alcohol, Endocrine Disrupter, Gametogenesis NIL 2022-02-23 Popular Article Sudarshan S., Krishnaveni K.N., Vimaladevi S., Vijayarahavan V. and Alamelu V.

Sudarshan S.

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

Krishnaveni K.N.*

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

Vimaladevi S.

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

Vijayarahavan V.

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

Alamelu V.

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

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397 1729953398 Biotica Research Today Challenges in Maintaining Food Testing Laboratories Agriculture 137-139

Food product testing is done through a series of methods like sampling, reagent preparations, sample processing using several methods and equipment, all of which are highly advanced and done by skilled manpower to provide accurate information about the nutritional value or safety of the food. Test results should come from a competent laboratory with appropriate technical expertise in food analysis using approved procedures and techniques. Various laboratory categories exist in India namely notified FSSAI private and government labs, Food business operators (FBO) with food testing labs, State labs, Institutional labs, Referral labs, Non- FSSAI/ NABL notified labs. Food testing laboratory is a complex ecosystem in terms of capacity, resource flow, equipment, technical manpower, geographical spread and testing capabilities. However, maintenance of this food testing laboratories involves a lot of challenges, that need attention to ensure sustainability of the testing facilities.

Challenges, Food testing, Lab maintenance, Notified labs NIL 2022-02-24 Popular Article Aparna Kuna and Lakshmiprasanna Kata

Aparna Kuna*

MFPI-Quality Control Laboratory, PJTS Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

Lakshmiprasanna Kata

MFPI-Quality Control Laboratory, PJTS Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

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398 1730001692 Biotica Research Today Effects of Black Soldier Fly Larvae on Fish Nutrition Agriculture 140-142

The aquaculture serves as a vital animal protein source, which constantly faces the problem of fish meal. The fish meal serves as a primary ingredient of the aquafeeds. Aquaculture because of their up-scaling growth laid a high demand on fish meal, which increased the cost of the ingredient and meanwhile it is an unsustainable practice. This created an urge for the need of an alternative ingredient for the fish meal. The insect meal has proven to be dually satisfactory and a sustainable alternative in aquafeeds. This article signifies the use of black soldier fly larvae meal on the fish nutrition.

Aquaculture, Black soldier fly larvae, Fish meal, Insect meal NIL 2022-02-25 Popular Article A. Kamalii, A. Jackqulin Wino, S. Meenatchi, S. Athithan, Cheryl Antony and B. Ahilan

A. Kamalii*

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

A. Jackqulin Wino

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

S. Meenatchi

Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

S. Athithan

Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Cheryl Antony

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

B. Ahilan

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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399 1730002381 Biotica Research Today Brassinosteroids on Post-Harvest Quality Attributes of Horticulture Crops Agriculture 143-145

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are a class of polyhydroxy steroid that has been identified as a sixth class of plant hormones. These steroids have the potential for wide practical applications in agriculture. Exogenous application of BRs has an impact on a wide range of physiological responses, accumulation of secondary metabolites and plants resistance to stress factors. Brassinosteroids affect various physiological events such as plant development, seed germination, rhizogenesis, flowering, rooting, cell expansion and cell elongation.

Brassinosteroids, Chilling injury, Epibrassinolide, Plant hormone NIL 2022-02-25 Popular Article Thippeswamy B. and Sindhu P.M.

Thippeswamy B.*

Division of Postharvest Management, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Sindhu P.M.

Division of Postharvest Management, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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400 1730002760 Biotica Research Today Treatment of Wastewater using Solar Energy Agriculture 146-150

The deliberate discharge of wastewater into environment poses serious ecological issues. Several conventional technologies such as coagulation, flocculation, ion exchange, etc., are used for the treatment of wastewater produced from various commercial units. The use of solar energy in the treatment of wastewater receives much attention now-a-days since it is eco-friendly and renewable in nature. The availability of solar energy is continuous. The UV light of solar energy helps to kill disease causing pathogens and degrade various kinds of pollutants in wastewater.

Pollutants, Solar energy, Treatment, Wastewater NIL 2022-02-26 Popular Article S. Subhashree Devasena, P. Padmavathy, D. Manimekalai and V. Rani

S. Subhashree Devasena*

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

P. Padmavathy

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

D. Manimekalai

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

V. Rani

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

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401 1730004109 Biotica Research Today Grow Blackgram for Increasing Farmers’ Income Agriculture 153-155

Blackgram is one of the most important pulse crop grown in rice fallows by the farmers of Udalguri district of Assam. However, most of the land remains fallow after harvest of mono-cropped rice. So, blackgram was demonstrated using scientific cultivation practices. Fertilizer was applied as NPK@ 10-35-15 kg ha-1; Compost @ 1 t ha-1. Seed was treated with rhizobium culture @ 50 g kg-1 seed under NFSM. The result revealed that the demonstration resulted in higher production of 9.2 q ha-1 with net income of Rs. 21,500.00 ha-1 as compared to 6.90 q ha-1 with net income of Rs. 12,150.00 ha-1 in farmers practice (control). The increase in yield was 33.33% over the farmers practice. The B:C ratio was also high in demonstration (1.87) over farmers practice (1.54).

Blackgram, INM, Pulse, Udalguri district NIL 2022-02-28 Popular Article Debasish Borah, Bhaskar Baruah and Ipsita Ojah

Debasish Borah*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra - Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool BTR, Udalguri, Assam (784 514), India

Bhaskar Baruah

Krishi Vigyan Kendra - Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool BTR, Udalguri, Assam (784 514), India

Ipsita Ojah

Krishi Vigyan Kendra - Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool BTR, Udalguri, Assam (784 514), India

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402 1730004563 Biotica Research Today Responsible Fishing - Way to Attain Eco-Friendly Sustainability in Fisheries Agriculture 156-159

Overfishing and its impact on ecosystems have been showing increasing trends in recent years, under estimating the need for scientific management of global fishery resources to maintain their long-term sustainability for future generations. Many governments have outlawed trawling because it detrimental impact on the seabed and reduces diversity. We have to preserve the resources and protect the endangered and non-targeted species by sustainable harvesting methods.

Bycatch, Responsible fishing, Trawl, Turtle Excluder Devices NIL 2022-03-03 Popular Article G.S. Keerthivarman and R. Velmurugan

G.S. Keerthivarman*

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

R. Velmurugan

Dept. of Fisheries Engineering and Technology, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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403 1730006706 Biotica Research Today Coral Gardening - Way to Regenerate Marine Ecosystem Agriculture 160-162

Considered the rainforests of the sea, coral reefs have beautiful colours ranging from brown to blue. Reefs can vary in size, shape and colour. Coral reefs have a global value of at least $30 billion because of the resources they provide to people. Now-a-days coral reefs are facing growing challenges from local to global effects of human activities like commercial bottom trawling, deep sea mining, pollution, waste disposal, coral exploitation, over fishing, climate change and hydrocarbon exploration. Hence, we are in the situation to save corals in an effective way. Coral gardening is one of the efficient methods to restore/ regenerate the coral ecosystem. This article mainly focus on the methodology, steps involved and the importance of coral gardening.

Coral gardening, Fragments, Habitat, Nursery NIL 2022-03-04 Popular Article V. Lakshme Gayathre, M. Kalaiarasan, S. Balasundari, A. Subburaj and P. Elakkanai

V. Lakshme Gayathre*

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

M. Kalaiarasan

Directorate of Incubation and Vocational Training in Fisheries, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (623 519), India

S. Balasundari

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

A. Subburaj

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

P. Elakkanai

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

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404 1730007170 Biotica Research Today Millet Consumption in Times of Pandemics Agriculture 163-166

In emerging tropical regions, cultivable plant-based food supplies are incapable of meeting proteins for both animals and humans. In underdeveloped countries, cereal-based meals have low bioavailability of minerals such as iron and zinc, posing a serious challenge for newborn and young children. One unconventional method to addressing malnutrition and ensuring readiness for natural crises is to popularise the agricultural productivity of crops that are minimally grown in resource-constrained places. These crops, also known as underused crops, are cultivated in dry and semi-arid environments with low soil fertility, little rainfall, and minimal insect pest assault. Furthermore, these crops are nutritionally rich and have the ability to modify diets and combat food and nutritional deficits for marginal people. This paper aims to be concerned with and build a special agenda for these crops, which must be acknowledged as an essential food, and to promote millets as a nutritious diet, therefore meeting the nutritional needs of the world population and combating malnutrition especially in times of pandemic.

COVID-19, Health, Pandemic, Small millets NIL 2022-03-05 Popular Article J. Poornima Jency

J. Poornima Jency

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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405 1730007416 Biotica Research Today Antibiotic Use in Aquaculture and Their Impact on the Aquatic Environment Agriculture 167-172

The rapid expansion of aquaculture through the intensification method has promoted numerous bacterial diseases which require the intensive use of antimicrobials. These compounds are mainly used for therapeutic, prophylactic, or metaphylactic in aquaculture meanwhile there are no antibiotics particularly designed for aquaculture and these compounds are authorized products used only for veterinary medicine. However, the frequent use of antibiotics in aquaculture has produced negative impacts including the development and spread of antimicrobial resistant bacteria and resistance genes and the presence of antimicrobial residues in aquaculture products and the environment. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major threat in aquaculture that has to be prevented by continuous monitoring programs such as proper guidelines, legislations and effective policies then have to be effectively followed by alternative strategies such as probiotics, vaccination, and herbal medicines. This article highlights the use of antimicrobials in aquaculture and their impacts in aquatic animal, human and aquatic environment.

Antibiotics, Antibiotics residues, Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Aquaculture NIL 2022-03-06 Popular Article S. Bhavani, D. Kaviarasu, A. Uma, S. Saravanan and A. Gopalakannan

S. Bhavani

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

D. Kaviarasu*

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

A. Uma

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

S. Saravanan

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

A. Gopalakannan

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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406 1730007767 Biotica Research Today Good Agricultural Practices of Phalaenopsis Orchids Agriculture 173-177

Phalaenopsis consists of 70 species of monopodial orchids distributed in Asia, Philippines, Indonesia, Malayasia, Australia and New Guinea. They are commonly known as ‘Moth Orchids’. Phalaenopsis is commonly used as pot plants and cut flowers and are suitable in hotel arrangements, hanging arrangements, households, boutique stores, weddings, funerals, birthdays, etc. Amongst commercial orchids, Phalaenopsis is a shade loving orchids and the plants require optimal management of light, temperature, humidity and nutrition to come into flowering.

Cut flowers, Drying, Moth orchids, Pot plants NIL 2022-07-03 Popular Article L.C. De

L.C. De

ICAR-NRC for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

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407 1730011853 Biotica Research Today Regenerative Agriculture - Turning Dead Dirt into Living Soil Agriculture 200-202

The increased agricultural intensification to meet the hunger of over growing population had led to excessive application of chemical fertilisers and agro-chemicals which on the other hand have led to the desertification of soil. Regenerative agriculture is the new hope towards the conversion of the dead dirt soil to lively and productive soil. Regenerative agriculture isn’t a completely new way of farming, but more of these practices must be put into play as the current and future agriculture demands site-suited smarter and resilient technologies to attain sustainable yield and combat climate change with reduced environmental footprints.

Climate change, Conventional agriculture, Organic matter, Soil NIL 2022-03-20 Popular Article Prameet Soujanya Satapathy and Rajeswari Das

Prameet Soujanya Satapathy

School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765 022), India

Rajeswari Das*

Dept. of Soil Science, School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765 022), India

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408 1730012334 Biotica Research Today Blast Disease in Rice and Its Management Agriculture 203-205

Rice is one of the major food crops in South-Eastern India. Its production was severely affected by certain agro climatic conditions such as biotic and abiotic stresses in crop health. Biotic stress such as fungi, bacteria, nematodes, viruses and non parasitic disorders are involved. Among which the fungal diseases, rice blast is considered one of the most important diseases of rice. Rice blast caused by Magnaporthe grisea is turn to be one of the most severe pathogen under change in climatic condition. Asian countries are main rice producer as well as consumer of world 90% production. This disease can be efficiently managed by following management practices viz. cultural, biological and chemical methods.

Blast, Fungi, Management, Rice NIL 2022-03-22 Popular Article T. Sahila, T. Suganya, Anu P. Mani and G. Nivitha

T. Sahila*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

T. Suganya

Dept. of Plant Pathology, PGPCAS, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu (637 405), India

Anu P. Mani

Dept. of Horticulture, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

G. Nivitha

Dept. of Microbiology, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

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409 1730012786 Biotica Research Today Nurdles - An Imminent Risk in the Ocean Agriculture 206-207

Approximately 80 million tons of plastic end up in marine environment every year and causes considerable amount of danger to the marine environment. Plastics, less than 5 mm called Nurdles pose a significant threat to marine environment as it is being mistakenly consumed as food by marine organisms. This leads to their death. These nurdles changes and affects the nature of turtle nesting sites and also caters as a reservoir of pathogens, causing adverse impacts on human health. This article efforts to bring out the impacts of nurdles in the marine environment and human health.

Environment, Nurdles, Pollution, Seafood NIL 2022-03-23 Popular Article L. Susshi Narayanan, S. Agnes Daney Angela, V. Suryapraba and E. Uma Maheswari

L. Susshi Narayanan

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

S. Agnes Daney Angela*

Dept. of Fisheries Extension, Economics and Statistics, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

V. Suryapraba

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

E. Uma Maheswari

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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410 1730013458 Biotica Research Today Terrace Gardening – An Overview Agriculture 211-213

In urban areas, land is a limiting factor and hence growing of vegetable crops and spice crops are raised in limited available area or in terraces of buildings. Cultivation of crops in pots or in cement bags is also feasible in cities. Likewise, nowadays our daily life is filled with stress in order to get relax and to break our routine monotonous activities in our life we need to do something which will cherish our minds, release our stress without much of mental and physical strain is gardening. Finally, terrace gardening is more than just a person-centric activity. When you set up a terrace garden, you also clean up your environment and inspire your neighbours and friends to do their own bit for it as well.

Fruits, Roof garden, Urban area, Vegetables NIL 2022-03-27 Popular Article M. Kavitha, K. Divya and K. Kayalvizhi

M. Kavitha*

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

K. Divya

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, FC & RI, Mettupalayam, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

K. Kayalvizhi

Dept. of Horticulture, Institute of Agriculture, TNAU, Kumulur, Tamil Nadu (621 712), India

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411 1730016216 Biotica Research Today Soil Pollution: Causes, Effect and Remediation Agriculture 224-227

The soil pollution has occupied the attention of a large number of researchers because of its continuity and effect on humans, animals and plants alike. Soil pollution occurs as a result of the entry of elements that change the composition and organism of the soil, and reduce its fertility, making it more vulnerable to drought, and unsuitable for agriculture. The most important soil pollutants before radioactive uranium pollution, pollution by industrial and household waste, volcanic eruptions, forest fires, and others. Most of the agricultural lands are irrigated by rivers polluted with factory wastewater. Also, the most important sources of pollution represented by pesticides and chemical fertilizers that contain toxic substances and seep into the soil to remain for a long time, and contribute to eliminate soil fertility.

Fertilizers, Irrigation, Pesticides, Water NIL 2022-04-05 Popular Article Sunil B. H., Lal Chand Malav, Brijesh Yadav and Immanuel C. Haokip

Sunil B. H.*

ICAR-National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 033), India

Lal Chand Malav

ICAR-National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning, RC, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

Brijesh Yadav

ICAR-National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning, RC, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

Immanuel C. Haokip

ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil Science, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (462 038), India

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412 1730016720 Biotica Research Today Effects of Fouling Organism in Aquaculture Agriculture 0228-229

Plants or animals that live adhering to the surface of the materials in the water are known as fouling organisms. Aquaculture fouling, also known as biofouling, is a major issue that results in damage, disease, and other challenges for the aquaculture farm. The impact of fouling organisms on shellfish culture is physical damage to the culture system, biological competition, and environmental modification, whereas in finfish culture, water conditions are affected and water exchange is restricted, increasing disease risk and causing deformation of cages and structures. Different forms of fouling organisms exist. Barnacles, hydroid, bivalves, polychaetes, and sponges are all frequent creatures. There are numerous controls in place to mitigate the effects of fouling organisms. Physical removal, biological control, the use of protected equipment, net change and frequent cleaning, and the use of antifoulant are all common steps.

Antifoulant, Aquaculture, Challenges, Fouling organisms NIL 2022-04-05 Popular Article Amritha A.S., V. Kaliyamurthi and Ambika Binesh

Amritha A.S.

Institute of Fisheries Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, OMR Campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

V. Kaliyamurthi

Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, OMR Campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

Ambika Binesh*

Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, OMR Campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

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413 1730017537 Biotica Research Today Good Agricultural Practices of Oncidium Orchids Agriculture 233-237

Oncidium consists of 750 species of sympodial epiphytic orchids from America, Mexico and Argentina with pseudobulbs or a fan of very thin leaves. They bear numerous number of attractive blossoms in various size, forms and colour and are commonly called as ‘Golden Showers’ and ‘Dancing Ladies’. Hybrids and some commercial species are used for cut flowers, hanging baskets, potted plants and dry flowers. Cultivation practices of Oncidium orchids are discussed in details.

Cut flowers, Dancing Ladies, Dry flowers, Potted plants NIL 2022-04-08 Popular Article L.C. De

L.C. De

ICAR-NRC for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

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414 1730018590 Biotica Research Today Scientific Beekeeping Technology for Sustainable Agriculture and Employment Generation Agriculture 244-247

Beekeeping (or apiculture) is the maintenance of bee colonies, commonly in man-made hives, by humans. Beekeeping is an agro-based occupation that provides income and employment generation for rural and tribal families. It plays a vital role in the present context of the commercialization of agriculture and liberalization of the economy. It covers the entire scope of honeybee resources, bee-products, beekeeping practices, pollination services, and their interface with business systems and ecological integrity. Bees are a special gift to mankind due to their pollination services and valued products like honey, beeswax, propolis, bee venom, etc. Honey bee farming in India is also a good source of income for the farmers especially during the period when the growth of crop is still under process. After Indian independence, beekeeping was promoted through various rural developmental programs. Beekeeping has been included as an activity for promoting cross pollination of Horticultural Crops under National Horticulture Mission since May, 2005.

Bee keeping, Employment generation, Honey, Pollination NIL 2022-04-14 Popular Article Shaon Kumar Das, Ezekiel K. Bhujel, E.L. Devi, Ramgopal Laha and V.K. Mishra

Shaon Kumar Das*

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Gangtok (737 102), Sikkim, India

Ezekiel K. Bhujel

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Gangtok (737 102), Sikkim, India

E.L. Devi

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Gangtok (737 102), Sikkim, India

Ramgopal Laha

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Gangtok (737 102), Sikkim, India

V.K. Mishra

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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415 1730023130 Biotica Research Today September (2024) Care and Management of Livestock in Winters Agriculture 445-447

Livestock supports livelihood of millions of people and as the climate is changing; it is posing threat to the Livestock sector as well. Rise in temperature, change in precipitation patterns and increase in frequency of extreme weather events have several effects on livestock, including disruption in feed production, water scarcity and heat and cold stress. So, it is necessary to provide livestock with properly ventilated and warm housing, adequate bedding material and energy-rich feed to support the livestock productivity. Species-specific recommendations are important emphasizing the importance for controlling temperature, proper feeding and hydration during cold weather. Also, it is very important to prioritize the prevention and treatment of hypothermia, using combination of external warming methods and supportive therapies, such as administration of warm fluids and management of pneumonia. By implementing the above said strategies, farmers can maintain health and production of their animals from being negatively implemented by cold stress.

Animal health, Climate change, Hypothermia, Livestock NIL 2024-09-28 Popular Article Asha, Pooja, Ravi Dabas, Bhupender, Pratyanshu Srivastava and Ankit Saran

Asha

Dept. of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 001), India

Pooja

Dept. of Animal Genetics and Breeding, DUVASU, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh (281 001), India

Ravi Dabas*

Division of Medicine, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (243 122), India

Bhupender

Livestock Production and Management Section, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (243 122), India

Pratyanshu Srivastava

Dept. of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, DUVASU, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh (281 001), India

Ankit Saran

Dept. of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, DUVASU, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh (281 001), India

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416 1730166927 Biotica Research Today Culture-Based Fisheries and Pen Culture Technologies Enhanced Income of Tribal Fishers in Bamuni Beel, Assam Agriculture 255-258

Culture-based fisheries and pen culture technologies demonstrated in Bamuni beel, Assam through community participation to support income and livelihood of local tribal fishers. Little or no supplementary stocking was practiced in the beel, resulting in low fish production and modest net annual income to the community members during 2019-20. Advanced carp fingerlings @ 3,000 no. ha-1 were stocked in the beel during October, 2020 for development of CBF. CIFRI-HDPE pens (3,000 m2 area) were installed in the beel and stocked with carp fingerlings @ 3-9 no. m-2 during February, 2021 and reared for 6 months. A total of 13.52 tonnes of fishes were harvested from the beel during 2021-22. The revenue generated was shared by the 65 tribal fisher families receiving an annual net income of Rs. 44,763.00 per family. Adoption of CBF and pen culture thus led to 117% increase in total fish production and 153% increase in net income for the local fishers compared to that in 2019-20. This can be replicated in other similar regions with similar technological interventions.

Assam, Beel, Culture-based fisheries, Pen culture NIL 2022-04-18 Success story Pronob Das, Simanku Borah, Anil Kumar Yadav, Birendra Kumar Bhattacharjya and Basanta Kumar Das

Pronob Das*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Simanku Borah

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Anil Kumar Yadav

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Birendra Kumar Bhattacharjya

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Basanta Kumar Das

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

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417 1730167366 Biotica Research Today Bioactive Components in Seagrasses: A Novel Biomedicine Agriculture 259-264

Seagrasses are also utilized as an alternative or supplementary medicine to treat various pathological conditions, including muscle aches, wounds, abdominal pain, indigestion, hangover, and mental disorders. There is, however, no comprehensive collection of existing research on their ethnopharmacological uses, nutritional value, pharmacological propensities, and bioactive components. Consequently, the focus of the study is on elaborating on the phytochemical composition and biological properties of various seagrass species, such as antioxidant and antibacterial activity. The phytochemical substances isolated from different seagrasses show various biological activities, including cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines, anti-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), antibacterial and skin regeneration characteristics. Seagrass research has a critical gap that this review addresses. However, the mechanism of action for compounds with high biological activity has not been thoroughly explored, while technical developments in biological assays have not been adequately addressed. Finally, this study summarises the bioactive components in seagrasses and their properties to use as biomedicine.

Anti-cancer activity, Anti-HIV properties, Bioactive molecules, Seagrasses NIL 2022-04-19 Popular Article Ulaganathan Arisekar, Robinson Jeya Shakila, Rajendren Shalini, Balasubramanium Sivaraman and Thamizhselvan Surya

Ulaganathan Arisekar*

Dept. of Fish Quality Assurance and Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Robinson Jeya Shakila

Dept. of Fish Quality Assurance and Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Rajendren Shalini

Dept. of Fish Quality Assurance and Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Balasubramanium Sivaraman

Dept. of Fish Quality Assurance and Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Thamizhselvan Surya

Dept. of Fish Quality Assurance and Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

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418 1730168650 Biotica Research Today Impact of Climate Change on Plant-Microbe Interactions Agriculture 275-277

Indiscriminate human activities like burning fossil fuels, deforestation etc. increased the level of various greenhouse gases like CO2 in the atmosphere and ultimately resulted in global warming. Increased atmospheric temperature is the major reason for climate change and extreme weather conditions. It has affected all the living organisms on earth and microorganisms are not an exception for it. Elevated CO2 level, temperature, frequent drought and low precipitation have affected the microbial population and its interaction with the host plant. Beneficial microorganisms like plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and endophytes etc. became less efficient in case of their growth promoting and biocontrol ability. It also increased the spread and severity of various plant pathogens and also led to the emergence of new virulent mutants. All these affected agriculture and production system extensively. Mitigating the climatic stress in crops using various microorganisms from extreme habitat and exploiting their inherent capacity to survive in extreme conditions to provide the crops enhanced stress tolerance is a solution for sustainable agriculture and crop production.

Beneficial microorganisms, Climate change, Climatic stress mitigation, Pathogens NIL 2022-04-24 Popular Article M.S. Nandana, Akhila P. Subhash, S.L. Sivapriya and K.N. Anith

M.S. Nandana*

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Akhila P. Subhash

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

S.L. Sivapriya

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

K.N. Anith

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

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419 1730169014 Biotica Research Today Success Stories on Intensive Salem Black Goat Rearing under ARYA Programme Agriculture 278-280

Goat is one of the ancient domesticated animals in India and considered as poor man’s cow. Goat farming business is not a new idea in India. And the climate and geographical conditions of Tamil Nadu is very suitable for raising goats commercially. The major problems in goat rearing are poor weight gain, infertility, fodder scarcity and lack of twin birth. Hence, to address the problem package of practices of has been demonstrated in the farmers’ field. The farmers are not adopting the package of practice for goat rearing and also not aware of varieties of goat for breeding and meat purpose. With a little external support from KVK Dharmapuri under attracting and retaining youth in agriculture, allied activities (ARYA) by initiating small farm enterprises, the young farming communities in Dharmapuri district have shown that it is possible to improve health and livelihoods.

Goat, Intensive, Rearing, Salem Black NIL 2022-04-25 Success story R. Thangadurai, M. Vijayakumar and C. Sivakumar

R. Thangadurai*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

M. Vijayakumar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

C. Sivakumar

Regional Research Station, Paiyur, Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu (635 112), India

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420 1730169464 Biotica Research Today Recombinant DNA Technology Agriculture 281-282

Recombinant DNA technology is a biotechnological procedure that allows scientists to manipulate DNA for practical purposes, because the genes of an organism are changed and its DNA is recombined during the process. Recombinant DNA technology offers the potential to create genetically modified plants with desirable features such as higher biotic and abiotic stress tolerance in plants, as well as improved flexibility for better survival. In comparison to natural recombination or traditional breeding methods, recombinant DNA technology allows for faster, cheaper, and more accurate insertion of specific features from many sources into the plant genome. In this article we will discuss about multiple steps, tools and other specific procedure followed in the recombinant DNA technology, which is used for producing artificial DNA to generate the desired product.

DNA, Genetically modified plant, Genome, Recombinant NIL 2022-04-28 Popular Article Parshant Kumar Sharma, Priya Sharma, Poonam Sharma, Roshani Singh and Shivanath

Parshant Kumar Sharma*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Priya Sharma

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Poonam Sharma

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Roshani Singh

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Shivanath

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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421 1730184399 Biotica Research Today Role of Soil Enzymes in maintaining Soil Health Agriculture 300-301

Soil enzymes are constantly playing vital roles for the maintenance of soil ecology and soil health. These enzymatic activities in the soil are mainly of microbial origin, being derived from intracellular, cell-associated or free enzymes. Therefore, microorganisms are acting as the indicators of soil health, as they have active effects on nutritional cycling, also affecting the physical and chemical properties of soil. Microorganisms respond quickly even to minute changes by changing their population and activities, and thus, can be used for soil health assessment. On the other hand, soil enzymes are the direct mediators for biological catabolism of soil organic and mineral components and they are often closely related to soil organic matters, soil physical properties, and microbial activities or biomass. They are the better indicators of soil health as changes of enzymes are much sooner than other parameters, thus providing early indications of changes in soil health. In addition, their activities can be used as the measures of microbial activity, soil productivity, and inhibiting effects of pollutants.

Soil ecology, Soil enzymes, Soil health, Microorganisms NIL 2022-05-09 Popular Article G. Nivitha and B. Vimalan

G. Nivitha*

Dept. of Microbiology, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

B. Vimalan

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

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422 1730185326 Biotica Research Today Organic Farming in India: Current Perspectives and Certification Agriculture 302-304

The food production is contending with many problems of declining soil health, water level, environment concern, new pest/ disease problems and health concerns due to excessive use of resources. On the other side, it is scientifically and philosophically proven that use of natural practices like organic manures and non-chemical farming can be a long term solutions to such problems. Organic agriculture is practiced in 170 countries with total area of 78 million ha (both in the form of cultivated and wild harvest). Currently, India ranks 10th among the top ten countries having the cultivable land under organic certification. Organic standards vis-a-vis certification of organic field and products are systemizing progressively in India following global standards. These not only make it resilient and sustainable, but also make the system intrusted for marketing and end use consumers.

Certification, Natural farming, Organic Farming, Sustainability NIL 2022-05-10 Popular Article Akshay Kumar Yogi, Tarun Sharma and Vijay Kumar

Akshay Kumar Yogi*

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Tarun Sharma

Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Vijay Kumar

Division of Agricultural Chemicals, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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423 1730185656 Biotica Research Today Soil Borne Diseases of Tropical Tuber Crops and Its Management Agriculture 305-307

Soil borne diseases are plant diseases caused by pathogens persisting within the soil matrix and hampering the growth of the plant by affecting its parts and eventually resulting in ultimate death. Soil borne pathogen groups include fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes that affect belowground tissues. However, they’re also responsible for causing aboveground diseases. Radical knowledge of soil-borne diseases is incredibly imperative so as to diagnose and manage the soil-borne diseases in tubers. The control of soil-borne diseases in tubers is often physical, chemical, as well as biological.

Management, Soil borne pathogen, Symptoms, Tuber NIL 2022-05-11 Popular Article Priyanka Priyadarshini, R. Arutselvan, Nishitha Komal Sahu, Samir Kumar Jena and Rashmirekha Ray

Priyanka Priyadarshini*

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

R. Arutselvan

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Nishitha Komal Sahu

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Samir Kumar Jena

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Rashmirekha Ray

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

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424 1730186290 Biotica Research Today Renewing Garden using Fish Amino Acid Liquid Fertilizer Agriculture 311-312

'Fish amino acid' is an organic compound used by many gardeners today to increase the plants’ immunity and get more results. Fish pieces and jaggery are the two main ingredients to prepare fish amino acids and both the ingredients are mixed with a ratio of 1:1. The amino acid liquid derived from low-cost fish is used as an organic fertilizer to fertile the soil based on the richness of nitrogen components for the better growth of the gardening plants. It’s used for all kinds of vegetables and flower plants. The fish extract helps us give green manure most naturally.

Fish amino acid, Gardening plants, Immunity, Liquid organic fertilizer NIL 2022-05-14 Popular Article M. Mohamed Faizullah, S. Santhoshkumar and V. Vijayarahavan

M. Mohamed Faizullah*

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalaianayeru, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

S. Santhoshkumar

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalaianayeru, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

V. Vijayarahavan

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalaianayeru, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

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425 1730186642 Biotica Research Today Foliar Borne Diseases of Tropical Tuber Crops and Its Management Agriculture 313-316

One of the major constraints that affect the yield of plants is biotic stress. Among these, fungi are the most common parasite causing plant diseases that occur primarily on leaves including stem, fruits & roots. Symptoms of fungal foliar diseases in tuber crops include stolon, wilting and chorosis. Tuber crops become infected through diseased stolons and show darkened diseased area on the skin. Starchy roots and tuber crops play a pivotal role in the human diet. Tubers are enlarged structures used as storage organs for nutrients in some plants and also for plants perennation to provide energy and nutrients for regrowth during the next growing season. General management of foliar disease in tuber crops includes using of biofungicides to medium before pouring it into the soil.

Foliar borne pathogen, Management, Symptom, Tuber crops NIL 2022-05-15 Popular Article Nishitha Komal Sahu, R. Arutselvan, Priyanka Priyadarshini, Samir Kumar Jena and Rashmirekha Ray

Nishitha Komal Sahu*

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

R. Arutselvan

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Priyanka Priyadarshini

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Samir Kumar Jena

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Rashmirekha Ray

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

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426 1730187417 Biotica Research Today Potential Benefits of Pseudomonas fluorescens Based Products and Its Application in Agriculture Agriculture 319-321

Pseudomonas fluorescens belongs to Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), is a gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium. It is the most favoured bioinoculant due to its significant properties in both plant growth and phytopathogen control during its synergistic association with the host plant. These properties include Phyto-hormone production, siderophore production, phosphate solubilization, phenazines production and antibiotics production. The association of P. fluorescens with crop plants procures several secretory and electron-based feedback mechanisms in order to regulate the plant growth and phytopathogen control activities through the secretion of several phytohormones (auxins, gibberellins, indole-3-acetic acid), secondary metabolites (flavonoids) and enzymes (aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase). Ecologically significant applications of P. fluorescens in biocontrol and bioaugmentation are crucial for maintaining food security.

Agriculture, Phytohormone, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Siderophore NIL 2022-05-17 Popular Article Samir Kumar Jena, R. Arutselvan, Nishitha Komal Sahu, Priyanka Priyadarshini and Rashmi Rekha Ray View Edit Delete
427 1730187813 Biotica Research Today The Role of Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) in Fishing Industry through Remote Sensing Agriculture 322-325

Finding and catching fish is usually a difficult task, which raises the cost and results in low profitability. With the launch of OCEANSAT in 1999, which offers a real-time satellite image of ocean colour (chlorophyll) and, when combined with SST, allows for the identification of aggregation fish, a new era has begun. One of the most important pre-requisites for profitable fishing is the identification of possible fishing zones, including the kind and amount of fish available. ESSO-Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) gives daily advice to fishermen with precise references to 586 fish landing stations throughout the Indian coast, based on remotely sensed data from several satellites. Even if they arrive to the spot after a day, this information aids the fisherman in identifying the PFZ marked on the maps.

Chlorophyll, Fish aggregation, Potential fishing zones, Sea Surface Temperature NIL 2022-05-18 Popular Article D. Arun Jenish and R. Velmurugan

D. Arun Jenish*

Dept. of Fishing Technology and Fisheries Engineering, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

R. Velmurugan

Dept. of Fishing Technology and Fisheries Engineering, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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428 1730188483 Biotica Research Today A Deadly Bacterial Blight Disease Management in Pomegranate Agriculture 326-328

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) also known as “Fruit of Paradise” is one among the major fruit crops grown extensively in subtropics. Its production was severely affected by certain agro climatic conditions such as biotic and abiotic stresses in crop health. Biotic stress such as fungi, bacteria, nematodes, viruses and non parasitic disorders are involved. Among the diseases, Bacterial blight of pomegranate is among the most devastating disease that inflicted huge losses to pomegranate crop productivity especially in India. During recent years, the disease has reached its alarming stage bringing substantial damage to the crop and heavy losses to the farmers. This disease can be efficiently managed by following management practices.

Bacterial Leaf blight, Disease, Management, Pomegranate NIL 2022-05-19 Popular Article T. Sahila, G. Nivitha and Anu P. Mani

T. Sahila*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

G. Nivitha

Dept. of Microbiology, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

Anu P. Mani

Dept. of Horticulture, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

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429 1730189010 Biotica Research Today Role of Soil Microorganisms in Soil Fertility and Crop Production Agriculture 329-331

Soil represents a medium or substrate in which numerous microorganisms live and bring about a great variety of processes which are responsible for continuation of the cycle of life in nature. The numerous living forms spend all or part of their life in soil ranging from sub microscopic forms to the lower animal forms. With the growing recognition of the numerous processes carried out by the microorganisms in the soil there gradually emerged a branch of microbiology, which came to known as Soil microbiology. It is a branch of soil science concerned with soil inhabiting microorganisms and their functions and activities.

Plant Growth, Soil Fertility, Soil Microbes, Soil Structure NIL 2022-05-20 Popular Article G. Nivitha, T. Sahila, B. Vimalan and S. Dhinega

G. Nivitha*

Dept. of Microbiology, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

T. Sahila

Dept. of Plant Pathology, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

B. Vimalan

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

S. Dhinega

Dept. of Agricultural Engineering, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

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430 1730204450 Biotica Research Today Some Adaptational Mechanisms of Orchids Agriculture 335-337

Orchidaceae belongs to the 84 families of vascular plants that cover species following the epiphytic life pattern. Orchids have specific adaptational mechanisms in the roots, stems, leaves, flowers, seed and other physiological processes. Under water scarcity, these orchids have developed pseudobulbs, a energy, water, and nutrient storage bulb for adaptations. A wax coating covering the surface of the leaf, also prevents evaporation and gas exchange in drier or hotter climate. Epiphytic orchids have adequate root systems to enable them to grow in a poor nutrient environment when they grow at slow rate. In such cases, velamen of orchids helps to absorb water and also help to absorb nutrients from rainfall. Orchid seeds do not have endosperm and require a fungal association with mycorrhiza to provide its energy till the development of roots and leaves. This symbiotic feature is another adaption to make the orchid seed to travel longer and further distances for survival. In comparison to the activity of C3 photosynthesis, crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) in many epiphytes plays a vital role in improving carbon gains and water use.

Adaptations, Crassulacean acid metabolism, Pseudobulb, Velamen NIL 2022-05-22 Popular Article L.C. De

L.C. De

ICAR-NRC for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

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431 1730204793 Biotica Research Today Phosphorus Management Strategies in Sustainable Agricultural System Agriculture 338-340

Phosphorus limitation is a major challenge for crop production and productivity in the world, as the phosphorus element is less mobile and highly fixed in the soil. Phosphorus deficiency occurs in Indian as well as world soils, and estimates predict no P-reserves by 2050. Nowadays, India does not have any adequate reserves of rock phosphate, posing a threat to sustainable crop production. This article is an attempt to provide necessary strategies that can be employed to manage and improve P availability in the soil for plants. Agronomic interference like weed management, development of P stress-tolerant varieties, deep band placement of P fertilizers, conservation tillage, and use of cover crops improves phosphorus availability in farming systems. Other soil phosphorus management practices like composting, organic amendments, and many soil microorganisms play an important role in increasing phosphorus availability in soil and supplying P to plants in a sustainable and eco-friendly way.

Agronomic Management, Efficiency, Phosphorus Availability, Sustainability NIL 2022-05-23 Popular Article Dilkhush Meena, Mukesh Prajapat, Babita Meena, C.K. Dotaniya and M.D. Meena

Dilkhush Meena

Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh (492 012), India

Mukesh Prajapat

Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh (492 012), India

Babita Meena

Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh (492 012), India

C.K. Dotaniya*

Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner, Rajasthan (334 006), India

M.D. Meena

ICAR-Directorate of Rapeseed Mustard Research, Sewar, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303),

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432 1730205271 Biotica Research Today Fungiculture - An Importance and Its Nutritive Value Agriculture 341-343

Mushroom, a nutrient-dense multipurpose food can share some of the benefits of fruits and vegetable and balance almost any everyday meal. Mushrooms are a group of fleshy macroscopic fungi. Mushrooms are being used as food since time immemorial. Due to culinary, nutritional and health benefits, the mushroom market is expected to grow as “a food, a tonic and a medicine”. These are rich in protein, carbohydrate and vitamins. Mushrooms are low in caloric value and hence are recommended for heart and diabetic patients.

Mushroom, Nutrition, Protein, Vitamins NIL 2022-05-23 Popular Article Sahila, T., Anu, P. Mani, G. Nivitha and Suganya, T.

Sahila, T.*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

Anu, P. Mani

Dept. of Horticulture, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

G. Nivitha

Dept. of Microbiology, STAC, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

Suganya, T.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, PGPCAS, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu (637 405), India

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433 1730206034 Biotica Research Today Impact of Pesticides in Rice Ecosystem Agriculture 344-346

Rice is an important food crop and attacked by various insect pests. There are few insect pests which affect the yield and productivity of the crop. Use of insecticides inevitable for the rice pest management. However, use of chemicals in the rice ecosystem had several problems and need to be addressed to save the wetland ecosystems. Use of common chemicals by the farmers in rice and various issues related to resistance, resurgence and residue were discussed.

Insect pests, Pesticides, Rice, Wet land ecosystem NIL 2022-05-24 Popular Article R.P. Soundararajan, N. Chitra and M. Chandrasekaran

R.P. Soundararajan*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

N. Chitra

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Chandrasekaran

Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute (TNAU), Navalur Kuttapattu, Trichy, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

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434 1730207132 Biotica Research Today Cob Rots of Maize: A Threat to Food Safety Agriculture 352-354

Cob rot of maize is caused by many pathogens, some of the common stalk rot pathogens are also frequently encountered as cob rots. These diseases have a worldwide distribution and are present in all climates where corn is grown. The major cob rots were caused by Diplodia (Stenocarpella), Fusarium, and Gibberella are the pathogens while, Penicillium and Aspergillus cause little damage, but may be confused with more significant pathogens like Trichoderma and Cladosporium are also included in the cob rot group. The corn ear rots particularly troublesome because multiple yearly cropping cycles allow the pathogens to develop large populations. In addition, the above listed fungi produce mycotoxins that are harmful to humans and livestock when consumed. This creates a need for public awareness for both economic and health reasons.

Cob rots, Food safety, Maize, Mycotoxins NIL 2022-05-25 Popular Article S. Ameer Basha and V. Ramya

S. Ameer Basha*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana State, India

V. Ramya

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana State, India

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435 1730207443 Biotica Research Today Potential Benefits of Trichoderma Based Products and It’s Disease Management Agriculture 355-358

Trichoderma have long been recognized as the agents for the control of plant diseases and for their ability to promote plant growth and development. There are several general methods for both bio-control and plant growth. Among them Mycoparasitism, Antibiosis and Competition are the main features that Trichoderma perform. During these mechanisms there will be secretion of Secondary metabolites and antibiotics. For formulation of Trichoderma; it should possess many important characteristic features for easy application, storage, commercialization and field use. There are many organic substrates that we use for the mass multiplication of Trichoderma. Vermiculite- wheat bran-based formulation, oil-based formulation and banana waste-based formulation are some examples that we need to perform for field application.

Disease management, Formulation, Mechanism, Trichoderma NIL 2022-05-25 Popular Article Rashmi Rekha Ray, R. Arutselvan, Nishitha Komal Sahu, Samir Kumar Jena and Priyanka Priyadarshini

Rashmi Rekha Ray*

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

R. Arutselvan

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Nishitha Komal Sahu

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Samir Kumar Jena

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Priyanka Priyadarshini

Regional Centre, ICAR-CTCRI, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

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436 1730208584 Biotica Research Today Spine Gourd Farming in India Agriculture 364-366

Spine gourd is an important vegetable crop grown in different parts of India. It is a member of cucurbitaceous family. Spine gourd provides many types of health benefits like it works as anti-aging agent, maintain blood sugar level, reduces the chances of cancer and the kidney stone. It is mainly cultivated in Karnataka and West Bengal. Spine gourds are known with many types of local names like Kankoda in Rajasthan and Katwal in Gujarati. Two types of Spine gourd, Small kantola and bigger kantola are available in Indian Market. Indira Kankoda I (RMF 37) is a new commercial variety of Spine gourd. An average yield of 75-100 quintals ha-1 of Spine gourd can be obtained with good crop management practices.

Cucurbitaceous, Kankoda, Katwal, Spine Gourd NIL 2022-05-26 Popular Article Ganesh Kumar Koli, Deepak Kumar Koli, Ravindra Kumar Meena, Deepak Kumar and Kiran

Ganesh Kumar Koli*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Deepak Kumar Koli

Division of Microbiology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Ravindra Kumar Meena

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Deepak Kumar

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Kiran

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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437 1730209024 Biotica Research Today Rice Bean (Vigna umbellata) Production in India Agriculture 367-368

Vigna umbellata is a warm-season perennial legume with yellow flowers and small edible beans. It is commonly called rice bean. To date, it is little known, little researched and little exploited. It is found in Indo-China, Southern China, Nepal, Bangladesh and India. It is grown in the variety of soil ranging from loamy to sandy loam soil having a good drainage system. Sowing of rice bean is done mainly in the 1st-3rd week of July month. Broadcasting, Dibbling and Kera/ Pora/ Seed drill are some important methods of sowing rice bean. The seed yield of rice bean is about 225 kg ha-1 worldwide.

Kera, Legume, Pora, Rice bean NIL 2022-05-27 Popular Article Ganesh Kumar Koli, Deepak Kumar Koli, Ravindra Kumar Meena, Deepak Kumar and Kiran

Ganesh Kumar Koli*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Deepak Kumar Koli

Division of Microbiology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Ravindra Kumar Meena

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Deepak Kumar

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Kiran

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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438 1730210701 Biotica Research Today Leafy Mustard: A Healthy Alternative to Green Vegetables Agriculture 376-378

Mustard greens are low in calories yet high in fibre and many essential vitamins and minerals. It is rich in important plant compounds and micronutrients, specifically vitamins A, C, and K. As a result, eating them may have benefits for eye and heart health, as well as anticancer and immune-boosting properties. Mustard greens are a versatile leafy green that can add a peppery, bitter flavour to raw or cooked dishes and generally very safe to eat. However, as they’re high in vitamin K and contain oxalates, large amounts may trigger side effects in individuals who take blood thinners or have a high risk of oxalate-type kidney stones.

Anticancer, Micronutrients, Mustard greens, Vitamins NIL 2022-05-29 Popular Article Ravindra Kumar Meena, Mukesh Kumari, Ganesh Kumar Koli, Ram Kishor Meena and Kiran

Ravindra Kumar Meena*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Mukesh Kumari

Dept. of Food and Nutrition, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Ganesh Kumar Koli

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Ram Kishor Meena

Dept. of Entomology, SKN Agriculture University, Jobner, Rajasthan (303 329), India

Kiran

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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439 1730211557 Biotica Research Today Vertical Farming: An Innovative Technology Agriculture 379-381

Vertical farming is an advanced level of agriculture technology that must be used when land and other requirements for a perfect farming structure are unavailable. This is a new way or approach at the advanced level, and this paper discusses the methodology, harvesting technique, water management, and crop cultivation and yielding process. And other natural renewable resources are used, such as windmills, solar panels, and so on. While these are not typical agricultural techniques, some other practises must be followed for a healthy yielding process.

Renewable Resources, Solar Energy, Vertical farming, Windmill NIL 2022-05-29 Popular Article Ravindra Kumar Meena, Deepak Kumar Koli, Ganesh Kumar Koli, Ram Kishor Meena and Annu

Ravindra Kumar Meena*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Deepak Kumar Koli

Division of Microbiology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Ganesh Kumar Koli

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Ram Kishor Meena

Dept. of Entomology, SKN Agriculture University, Jobner, Rajasthan (303 329), India

Annu

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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440 1730212143 Biotica Research Today Speed Breeding: A Powerful Tool to Accelerate Crop Research Agriculture 382-384

Speed Breeding is a novel and exciting way to breeding that was inspired by the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) that promises to develop new crop types faster, giving hope to the continent's food security. The method entails growing plants in continuous light for 20-22 hours. Plants can photosynthesize over extended periods of time, resulting in faster growth. Under normal growth conditions, two generations of wheat plants can be developed per year, but with this approach, four to six generations can be grown per year. As a result, researchers are increasingly employing this technique in plant phenotyping and the pyramiding of several traits for the production of novel crop varieties. However, significant problems and constraints prevent its widespread implementation across a wide range of crops.

Continuous Light, Growth and Generations, NASA, Speed Breeding NIL 2022-05-30 Popular Article Ravindra Kumar Meena, Deepak Kumar Koli, Ganesh Kumar Koli, Ram Kishor Meena and Annu

Ravindra Kumar Meena*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Deepak Kumar Koli

Division of Microbiology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Ganesh Kumar Koli

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Ram Kishor Meena

Dept. of Entomology, SKN Agriculture University, Jobner, Rajasthan (303 329), India

Annu

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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441 1730212524 Biotica Research Today Canola Breeding in India Agriculture 385-387

Several Brassicaceae (Crucifer) species are planted as oilseeds over the world, generating culinary, biofuel, and industrial oil as well as high-protein meal. Brassica napus is the most widely grown species, but B. juncea, B. rapa, B. carinata and B. nigra are all grown extensively in some parts of the world. Brassica seed quality and agronomic performance have both improved significantly. Canola provides a nutritious oil that is low in saturated fat and high in linolenic acid. Brassica oilseeds are very susceptible to modern biotechnologies, which have aided in the achievement of present breeding objectives as well as the development of new breeding objectives.

Canola, Nutritious, Oilseeds, Saturated fat NIL 2022-05-30 Popular Article Ravindra Kumar Meena, Deepak Kumar Koli, Ganesh Kumar Koli, Ram Kishor Meena and Deepak Kumar

Ravindra Kumar Meena*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Deepak Kumar Koli

Division of Microbiology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Ganesh Kumar Koli

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Ram Kishor Meena

Dept. of Entomology, SKN Agriculture University, Jobner, Rajasthan (303 329), India

Deepak Kumar

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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442 1730264293 Biotica Research Today Biostimulants in Crops Agriculture 395-397

Agricultural or plant biostimulants are biological or biologically derived fertilizer additives and similar products that are used in crop production to supplement and enhance existing agricultural practices and crop inputs. It is intended to provide a broad overview of known effects of biostimulants and their ability to improve tolerance to abiotic stresses. Inoculation or application of extracts from algae or other plants have beneficial effects on growth and stress adaptation. Algal extracts, protein hydrolysates, humic and fulvic acids, and other compounded mixtures have properties beyond basic nutrition, often enhancing growth and stress tolerance. Non-pathogenic bacteria capable of colonizing roots and the rhizosphere also have a number of positive effects. These effects include higher yield, enhanced nutrient uptake and utilization, increased photosynthetic activity, and resistance to both biotic and abiotic stresses.

Agriculture, Biostimulants, Nutrient, Roots NIL 2022-06-05 Popular Article T. Sahila, Anu P. Mani and G. Nivitha

T. Sahila*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, S. Thangapazham Agricultural College (STAC), Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

Anu P. Mani

Dept. of Horticulture, S. Thangapazham Agricultural College (STAC), Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

G. Nivitha

Dept. of Agrl. Microbiology, S. Thangapazham Agricultural College (STAC), Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

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443 1730264953 Biotica Research Today Strategies to Enhance the Production of Water Chestnut (Trapa natans L.) in India Agriculture 398-402

Water chestnut (Trapa spp. L) is a very attractive cash crop grown in India during the rainy and autumn season. After transplantation fruiting and harvesting is done within 4-5 months. Adaptation of new high yielding varieties and current management practices could earn almost double income as that of earlier practices. Soil must be well pulverized with a rotavator followed by application of castor and karanj cake [1.0-1.5 t (50:50) ha-1]. Plant spacing is generally 3.0 m × 3.0 m and approximately 1,100 plant population ha-1 during August resulted in more production (10-12.0 t ha-1) in north Bihar condition. The application of inorganic fertilizer N:P:K @ 60:40:40 kg ha-1 is recommended for the maximum benefit. Introduction of Improved Green Spineless and Improved Red Spineless variety and maintenance of water level (0.5 m) up to December were found to be promising for enhanced yield.

Agronomic management, Improved variety, Water chestnut, Yield NIL 2022-06-06 Popular Article B.R. Jana

B.R. Jana

ICAR-RCER, Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

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444 1730265406 Biotica Research Today Biofertilizers: Definition, Classification and Importance Agriculture 403-405

Fertilizers are used to provide vital plant nutrients such as nitrogen (N), potassium (K), and phosphorous (P) to plants (P). These fertilizers promote crop yield, but they also offer a number of health risks. Consumer preferences are shifting toward the usage of organic food cultivated without the use of any chemicals as a result of a number of health risks. In recent years, biofertilizers have emerged as an important component for biological nitrogen fixation. They provide a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method of nutrient supply to the plant.

Bacillus, Biofertilizer, Mycorrhiza, Symbiotic NIL 2022-06-07 Popular Article T.K. Divya

T.K. Divya

Dept. of Soil Science, Thanthai Roever Institute of Agriculture and Rural Development, Perambalur, Tamil Nadu (621 212), India

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445 1730265767 Biotica Research Today Terracotta Composters: A Simple and Space-Efficient Solution for Converting Urban Organic Waste into Black Gold Agriculture 406-408

Organic or biodegradable waste management is a major problem across the globe especially in growing urban areas. The improper disposal of this waste is polluting the environment requiring urgent action. Composting is a simple and easy solution for biodegradable waste management; however, rapid urbanization and population growth has severely limited the availability of space owing to which traditional composting methods cannot be adopted in these settings. Terracotta composters requiring very limited space can serve as a simple, space-efficient and economical solution for managing the growing problem of organic waste for urban dwellers.

Biodegradable, Organic, Terracotta composters, Waste NIL 2022-06-08 Popular Article Abhishek Verma and Adarsh B.

Abhishek Verma

ICAR-IARI, Regional Station, Aundh, Pune, Maharashtra (411 067), India

Adarsh B.*

TISS, Deonar, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 088), India

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446 1730266172 Biotica Research Today Success Story on Improved Practices in Finger-millet for Higher Productivity under Rainfed Condition Agriculture 409-410

Finger millet is one of important small millet grown extensively in rainfed conditions of Dharmapuri district. Farmers used to cultivate the crop under marginal and poor soils with no or low input application. Also knowledge on cultivation of high yielding varieties is meagre. As a result farmers experiencing low yield and thereby low income through this crop. Hence, Krishi Vigyan Kendra has demonstrated the high yielding varieties with improved package of practices in Finger millet under rainfed conditions. Results of the demonstration indicated that farmers got higher grain yield and income through adoption of improved practice over the existing farmers practice.

Finger millet, Grain Yield, Income, Rainfed NIL 2022-06-09 Success story M. Sangeetha, P.S. Shanmugam and K. Indhumathi

M. Sangeetha*

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

P.S. Shanmugam

Dept. of Pulses, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

K. Indhumathi

Horticulture College and Research Institute for Women, TNAU, Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

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447 1730268870 Biotica Research Today High Energy Feeds in Inland Aquaculture Agriculture 411-412

Inland fish production mainly consists of capture based fishing activities and is mainly dependent on exotic species such as Tilapia sp., Indian carps and Chinese carps. However, sustainability of aquaculture production depends on proper feeding and farm management. Feeding of fish has become one of the critical management practices today, as it occupies 50-60% from the total cost of production. Of the feed ingredients, protein source is one of the expensive ingredients in the formulated feed. Fish meal is still an essential ingredient in the diets and it is also an expensive feed ingredient compared to other protein sources and thus represents a significant cost element in feed and production cost.

Feed, Inland aquaculture, Nutrition, Production cost NIL 2022-06-10 Popular Article P. Ruby, B. Ahilan and Cheryl Antony

P. Ruby*

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

B. Ahilan

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Cheryl Antony

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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448 1730269321 Biotica Research Today A Short Note on the Avian Fauna of ICAR-KVK Tiptur Campus, Tumkur District, Karnataka Agriculture 413-415

Birds are one of the most fascinating creatures in this world contributing to the agriculture by consuming insect pests thereby managing pest population, aiding in pollination and also in endozoochory. An attempt was made to document the flora and avian fauna species at ICAR-KVK, Tiptur campus, Tumkur district in Karnataka during the month of February, 2022. Observations were made from morning to evening and only diurnal bird species were documented during the short study. The results were found fruitful as twenty-three bird species were documented belonging to twenty families and eight orders. Most of the birds belonged to Passeriformes followed by Cuculiformes and Accipitriformes.

Birds, Documentation, Flora, Fauna NIL 2022-06-11 General Articles Ranjith M. and Vivek Uppar

Ranjith M.*

Regional Integrated Pest Management Centre, Jaivik Bhavan, Kadugodi, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 115), India

Vivek Uppar

Regional Integrated Pest Management Centre, Jaivik Bhavan, Kadugodi, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 115), India

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449 1730269640 Biotica Research Today Cover Crops: Soil and Agricultural Sustainability Agriculture 416-418

Cover crops (CC) act as multifunctional and vital component in present agricultural system where sustainability and agriculture productivity at core of its full exploitation. The land resources are decline and soil loses its functionality abruptly. Cover crops cultivation can improve crop yield, soil and environmental quality. Cover crops are multifunctional and contribute to soil quality and deliver ecosystem services. The crops also enhance organic matter and aid in nutrient cycling, suppress weeds, and control pests. There is a need to continually explore and appropriately manage CC utilization over local specific adoption to obtain their window use.

Cover crops, Ecosystem services, Organic carbon, Soil quality NIL 2022-06-11 Popular Article Akshay Kumar Yogi, Rakesh Kumar, Vijay Kumar and Ashok Kumar Sahu

Akshay Kumar Yogi*

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Rakesh Kumar

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Vijay Kumar

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Ashok Kumar Sahu

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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450 1730291391 Biotica Research Today Banana Leaf Roller, Erionota torus Evans (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae): A Destructive Insect Pest of Banana Agriculture 421-423

Banana leaf roller, Erionota torus Evans is a major devastating foliage pest of Musa spp. reported in several locations globally. It affects banana plant both during the vegetative and reproductive (flowering) stages. The main symptoms are incised and rolled-up leaves. The leaf roll can be extended to a length of 15 cm. The skipper larva's feeding activity causes significant harm to the banana leaves by rolling the leaf while feeding on it. Although banana plants can withstand up to 20% defoliation, a high infestation can cause the entire banana leaf to be damaged, leaving only the midrib intact. Defoliation by leaf roller larva will result in roughly 28% yield losses at a 50% defoliation rate. There is no much management practices are required, wherever the natural enemy’s activity is at peak.

Banana, Defoliation, Leaf roller, Skipper NIL 2022-06-12 Popular Article Suresh R. Jambagi, Vighnesh, Nandini, Godavari, D.S. Chaitra and Kartik S. Nidagundi

Suresh R. Jambagi*

Dept. of Entomology,UAS GKVK, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

Vighnesh

Dept. of Agronomy,UAS GKVK, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

Nandini

Dept. of Entomology, UAS Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

Godavari

Dept. of Entomology,UAS GKVK, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

D.S. Chaitra

Dept. of Entomology,UAS GKVK, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

Kartik S. Nidagundi

Dept. of Entomology, UAS Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

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451 1730292451 Biotica Research Today Regenerative Agriculture: Footprints for Sustainability Agriculture 429-431

Agriculture is in crisis. Soil health is collapsing. Biodiversity faces the sixth mass extinction. Crop yields are plateauing. The concept of a regenerative agriculture can be traced back to the cusp of the 1980’s sustainability evolution. In response to the apparent dichotomy between sustaining our growing human population through agricultural production, regeneration of resources for sustainable quest in changing scenario of global warming issues related with conventional practices. Regenerative agriculture could be proved as guide ground concept for overall improvement of soil water and environment millennium.

Biodiversity, Global warming, Regeneration, Soil health NIL 2022-06-14 Popular Article Akshay Kumar Yogi, Shila Neel, Narendra Kumar Bhinda and Monu Choudhary

Akshay Kumar Yogi*

ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Shila Neel

ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Narendra Kumar Bhinda

MPUAT, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

Monu Choudhary

MPUAT, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

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452 1730292782 Biotica Research Today Factor Analysis: A Data Reduction Technique Agriculture 432-434

In many studies we observe large number of variables and in these variables many of them gives common information that is why it is not worthy to study all the variables as it complicates analysis and interpretation. There it comes the use of data reduction techniques. These techniques extract some most influencing variables from the large variables. Factor analysis (FA) is a multivariate technique that is used to describe the relationships between different variables under study (observable variables) with new variables called factors, where the number of factors is less than the number of original variables. FA works efficiently and produces fewer factors to describe the relationship if the variables under study are highly correlated. For instance, if all of the variables in one group are highly correlated among themselves and have little correlation with the variables in the remaining groups, each group can represent a factor. FA is considered an extension of principal component analysis since the ultimate objective for both techniques is a data reduction.

EFA, Factor analysis, Identity matrix, PCA NIL 2022-06-14 Popular Article Vaibhav Chittora, Heerendra Prasad, Prashant Vasishth and Mohit Sharma

Vaibhav Chittora*

Dr. YSPUHF, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Heerendra Prasad

Dr. YSPUHF, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Prashant Vasishth

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Mohit Sharma

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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453 1730293372 Biotica Research Today Reverse Breeding: A Novel Plant Breeding Technique Agriculture 435-437

One of the important insights in plant breeding was heterosis, the observation that hybrid progeny (F1) typically is superior as favourable allele combination of elite heterozygote are lost in next generation due to segregation of traits. Easy preservation of heterozygous genotype is one of the greatest challenges in plant breeding. Hereby, a novel technique reverse breeding meets the challenges of fixation of complex heterozygous. Reverse Breeding generates perfectly complementing homozygous parental lines through engineered meiosis.

Engineered meiosis, Heterosis, Novel plant breeding technique, Reverse Breeding NIL 2022-06-15 Popular Article Mohit Sharma, Prashant Vasisth, Vaibhav Chittora and Heerendra Prasad

Mohit Sharma*

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Prashant Vasisth

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Vaibhav Chittora

Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Heerendra Prasad

Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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454 1730293986 Biotica Research Today Plant Diseases - A Global Challenge to Food Security Agriculture 438-443

Plant disease outbreaks have caused massive food shortages and famines over the years. It poses a major threat to food security because they can damage crops, thus reducing the availability and access to food, increasing the cost of food. Each year an estimated 10-16 percent of global harvest is lost to plant diseases. Most of the crops are subjected to diseases both in the field and post-harvest by a number of major groups of pathogens. New plant diseases potentially threaten staple crops around the world giving rise to broad scale starvation in many parts of the globe. Additionally, disasters and transboundary diseases pose an enormous threat to food safety and security. Therefore, plant protection in general and the protection of crops against plant diseases in particular, have an obvious role to play in meeting the growing demand for food quality and quantity.

Agriculture, Food Security, Plant Diseases, Quarantine NIL 2022-06-17 Popular Article Shaik Reshma, Shaik Ameer Basha, Gali Uma Devi and Venuturla Bharathi

Shaik Reshma

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

Shaik Ameer Basha*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

Gali Uma Devi

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

Venuturla Bharathi

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

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455 1730294251 Biotica Research Today Clonal Seeds from Hybrid Rice: A New Approach to Meet the Exceeding Hybrid Seed Demand of the Farming Community Agriculture 444-446

Plant breeders exploit heterosis to produce high-yielding crop varieties over their pure line parents; however, genetic segregation in the advanced generations leads to losing economic traits. Therefore, clonal propagation through matured seeds would be good enough to self-propagate the F1 hybrids. This approach would be rewarding to the farming community as they will not be forced to purchase fresh F1 hybrids seeds every year as they can use their farm seeds for the next season.

Apomixis, Clonal seed, CRISPR/Cas9, Hybrid rice NIL 2022-06-18 Popular Article Ranjit Saroj, Manoj Kumar Patel, Priya Pardeshi, Vijay Kamal Meena, Rajat Chaudhary and Subhash Chand

Ranjit Saroj

Division of Genetics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Manoj Kumar Patel*

Division of Genetics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Priya Pardeshi

Division of Genetics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Vijay Kamal Meena

Division of Genetics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Rajat Chaudhary

Division of Genetics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Subhash Chand

Division of Genetics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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456 1730295364 Biotica Research Today Applications of Optical Fiber in Dam Safety Monitoring Agriculture 447-449

Dams are an essential part of the irrigation infrastructure, used for water, electricity, flood control, and recreational purposes. Instrumentation in dam safety monitoring is well established. It monitors dam parameters like movements, pore pressure, uplift pressures, water level, seepage flow, cracks, stress and strain, temperature, seismic activity, and weather and precipitation. Different types of sensors are used to monitor the above parameters. These sensors modulate some properties of the light in an optical cable. Fabry-Perot sensors, Fiber Bragg grating sensors, SOFO sensors, and distributed fiber optic sensors are used in dam structural safety monitoring. In this technology, optical fiber acts as a medium for transmitting measurement information. Successful applications of optical fibers prove the maturity of this technology in the dam safety-monitoring field worldwide.

Dam safety, Distributed sensing, Fiber optics, Sensors NIL 2022-06-19 Popular Article Shaheemath Suhara K.K. and Janani N.

Shaheemath Suhara K.K.*

Dept. of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Janani N.

Dept. of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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457 1730295844 Biotica Research Today Sweet Potato: Its Nutritional Factor and Health Benefits Agriculture 450-452

Ipomea batatas (L.) commonly known as Sweet potatoes are considered as the second most staple food crop in many developed and underdeveloped countries due to its immense role in human diet. The different coloured flesh of sweet potatoes found naturally as white, yellow, purple, and orange are rich of nutrition. The orange-fleshed sweet potato has been set as a centre of attraction among many food technologists and nutritionists due to its high content of carotenoids and pleasant sensory characteristics with color while the purple fleshed sweet potato is full of anthocyanin content. Due to various health benefits reported in orange sweet potato, most of the countries like Uganda, Mozambique, Kenya, and Nigeria use orange-fleshed sweet potato used as their staple food. Sweet potato is the most amply grown tuber crops in Africa. Sweet potato is considered to be the principal source of natural products and development of medicines against variable diseases including production of industrial products.

Health benefits, Ipomea batatas, Nutritional factor, Sweet Potato NIL 2022-06-20 Popular Article Sonia Bhuyan, Siddhanta Mishra, Samarendra Narayan Mallick, Sarita Biswal and Vijay Bahadur Singh Chauhan

Sonia Bhuyan*

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Siddhanta Mishra

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Samarendra Narayan Mallick

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Sarita Biswal

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Vijay Bahadur Singh Chauhan

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

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458 1730296474 Biotica Research Today Chinese Potato: A Potential Minor Tuber Crop Agriculture 453-455

Chinese Potato (Plectranthus rotundifolius Poir.) Spreng. belongs to Lamiaceae family is native to tropical Africa and grown in some parts of India in small scale, particularly in Kerala and Tamil Nadu for its edible tuber. It is also widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. Chinese potato cultivated for edible purposes in southern part of India (Kerala and Tamil Nadu) and globally in South Africa and South-Asian countries. Other than immense nutritional properties, this plant has potential for treatment of stomach disorders, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth and throat infection, abdominal pain, wounds, burns, insect bites and other sensory disorders. Chinese potato is an important minor tuber crop and it can be incorporated for agro biodiversity purposes in farming system for crop diversification.

Chinese potato, Minor tuber crop, Plectranthus rotundifolius, Traditional use NIL 2022-06-21 Popular Article Siddhanta Mishra, Sonia Bhuyan, Samarendra Narayan Mallick, Pinki Mohapatra and Vijay Bahadur Singh Chauhan

Siddhanta Mishra*

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Sonia Bhuyan

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Samarendra Narayan Mallick

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Pinki Mohapatra

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Vijay Bahadur Singh Chauhan

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

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459 1730349113 Biotica Research Today Role of Biofertilizer in Agriculture Agriculture 461-463

The worldwide increase in human population every year raises a major threat to the food security of the people as the land for agriculture is restricted and even drastic reduction with time. Therefore, it is essential that agricultural productivity should be enhanced significantly within the next few decades to meet the large demand of food by emerging population. Due to dependence on chemical fertilizers for more crop productions damages both ecosystem and human health with great severity. Biofertilizers are one of the greatest nature gifts of our agricultural science as partial replacement for chemical fertilizers. Biofertilizer contains microbes which encourage the adequate supply of nutrients to the host plants and ensure their proper development of growth and regulation in their physiology. Living microbes are used in the preparation of biofertilizers. Biofertilizers being essential components of sustainable farming play vital role in maintaining long term soil fertility and sustainability of crop production.

Biofertilizer, Crop production, Environmental stress, Sustainable agriculture NIL 2022-06-23 Popular Article Siddhanta Mishra, Sonia Bhuyan, Samarendra Narayan Mallick, Sarita Biswal and Vijay Bahadur Singh Chauhan

Siddhanta Mishra*

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Sonia Bhuyan

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Samarendra Narayan Mallick

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Sarita Biswal

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Vijay Bahadur Singh Chauhan

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

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460 1730349379 Biotica Research Today Biopolymer Production from Arrowroot Starch Agriculture 464-466

A bio-based polymer is one that is created from natural sources with the addition of additives and an accelerator. It can decay at specific times and temperatures. These are environment friendly materials which are biodegradable, safer, non-toxic, lightweight, inexpensive and easy to find. The growing amount of plastic trash in landfills has prompted researchers to develop biodegradable polymers. Agricultural resources contain essential biopolymers, such as polysaccharides and proteins, which help to mitigate the aforementioned short disadvantages of petroleum-based plastics. The Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea) rhizomes have emerged as powerful sources of starch and fiber. Arrowroot starch contains a significant amount of amylose (35.20 percent), making it ideal for film making. Carbohydrate is one of the most valuable elements found in arrowroot starch, which is used to make medication, biscuits, pastries, cakes, and other bakery products, whereas waste rhizome fibre is usually used to make paper, flours, tissue paper, and cardboard.

Arrowroot, Biopolymer, Maranta arundinacea, Starch NIL 2022-06-23 Popular Article Sonia Bhuyan, Siddhanta Mishra, Samarendra Narayan Mallick, Pinki Mohapatra and Vijay Bahadur Singh Chauhan

Sonia Bhuyan*

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Siddhanta Mishra

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Samarendra Narayan Mallick

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Pinki Mohapatra

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Vijay Bahadur Singh Chauhan

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

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461 1730349752 Biotica Research Today Kodo Millet: The Neglected and Underutilized Crop for Food Security Agriculture 467-469

Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum) is a small-seeded cereal grain that is one of India's oldest cultivated crops. In the recent, Kodo millet, like other millet species, has witnessed a severe decline in production and is due to the promotion of alternative staple grains (mainly rice and wheat). Millets have been overlooked in R&D, and as a result lack the production benefits of rice and wheat, such as enhanced variety availability and understanding of growth strategies to optimize yields. However, because of its rich nutritional profile, low input needs, and resilience to marginal soils and varying climatic conditions, Kodo millet has sparked fresh study interest as risk management and climate change adaptation strategy for farmers.

Kodo millet, Neglected, Nutritional and food security, Underutilized NIL 2022-06-24 Popular Article J. Poornima Jency

J. Poornima Jency

Dept. of Crop Improvement, Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Pollachi, Tamil Nadu (642 103), India

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462 1730350141 Biotica Research Today How the Minuscule Zebrafish Influence on Biomedical Research Agriculture 470-472

The past few decades, the Zebrafish (Danio rerio) has become an exponentially used animal model for biomedical research. Animal experimentation studies using animal models play a vital role in upcoming research. Though, some animal models have been restored by alternative method of approach, still studies need animal models for development of science that yields better results to apprehend the particular research progress without any risk to the human beings. On the contrary, the research costs carried out in the mammals are high, compared to small animal models. Nevertheless, finding of cost-effective new animal models with the consideration of animal welfare is important. This led to required and management of invertebrates and fishes becomes necessary recently. As a result, the uses of Zebrafish increased extensively as an alternative experimental animal model in biomedical research studies.

Animal model, Biomedical research, Breeding, Zebra fish NIL 2022-06-24 Popular Article Sangeetha S., Jayasheela J. and Leonal Rabins

Sangeetha S.*

Dept. of Pharmacology, Sri Lakshmi Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences, Pondicherry (605 502), India

Jayasheela J.

Dept. of Pharmacology, Sri Lakshmi Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences, Pondicherry (605 502), India

Leonal Rabins

ICAR-KVK, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 852), India

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463 1730350815 Biotica Research Today Micro-Minerals Biofortification through Microbes: The New Strategy for Enhancement of Nutrients in Food Crops Agriculture 473-475

Minerals are required both plants and humans for normal growth and development. Plants contain most of the essential nutrients but compared with macronutrients, the concentration of micronutrients is substantially minimum. Low concentration in food crops, leads to micronutrient deficiencies in humans. Nutrients deficiency is one of the serious global threats that affect millions of people worldwide. It can cause dangerous health conditions and diseases. So, importance is needed to improve the concentration these micronutrients in food crops. Biofortification through microbes is a new and promising option for the bioavailibity of micronutrients; especially, Fe, Zn and Se in the major food crops. Microbes that promote plant growth are becoming an effective approach to replacing the artificial inorganic fertilizers. It is achieved by using various microbial biofertilizers that solubilize the essential minerals and micronutrient which are present in soil and are made easily available for plants uptake.

Biofortification, Hidden hunger, Iron, Zinc NIL 2022-06-25 Popular Article Sethupathi S., Leonal Rabins S. and K. Thirumalaiselvi

Sethupathi S.*

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu (627 852), India

Leonal Rabins S.

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu (627 852), India

K. Thirumalaiselvi

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu (627 852), India

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464 1730351244 Biotica Research Today FLOCponics: The Integration of BFT and Aquaponics System Agriculture 476-478

FLOCponics is such as a modern integrated agri-aquaculture system in its initial stage of development. Flocponics combines the intensive production of aquatic organisms using biofloc technology with the production of vegetables in hydroponics systems, an alternative type of aquaponics that integrates biofloc technology (BFT) with soilless plant production. The biofloc aquaculture systems are based on promoting the growth of specific microbial communities that recycle the nitrogenous waste directly fomented in the aquaculture tank to intensify and increase the biosecurity of fish and shrimp production. The microorganisms are responsible for maintaining water quality and serving as food for the cultivated organisms, decreasing the need for water renewal and the use of commercial feed. Aiming the improvement of its efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of both systems, flocponics uses the excess nutrients from the biofloc to nourish hydroponics plants.

Aquaponics, Biofloc technology, Flocponics, Integrated system NIL 2022-06-26 Popular Article M. Mohamed Faizullah, J. Jaculine Pereira, P. Yuvarajan and M. Muthu Abishag

M. Mohamed Faizullah*

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

J. Jaculine Pereira

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

P. Yuvarajan

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

M. Muthu Abishag

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

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465 1730354080 Biotica Research Today Effort towards the Livelihood Improvement of Schedule Cast Farming Communities in Nawada, Bihar - A Success Story Agriculture 500-502

Agriculture sector provides the livelihood opportunity to majority of the rural people in Bihar, India. The dependency of schedule cast (SC) communities on agriculture is much more than other farming alternatives. These communities are doing farming activity to fulfill the basic family needs. To get maximum benefit from agricultural activities they use high skills and traditional knowledge. Small interventions of agricultural inputs can play a vital role to improve their livelihood. In this study, survey conducted among more than 100 farmers of SC community on the basis of their agricultural demand. The farmers of Nawada district (Village: Nad and Paroria) were benefited with agricultural inputs like tarpaulins and small water pumps. Today, by the use of these small inputs has resulted in significant increases (around Rs. 5,000.00 ± 1,750.00 household-1) in their livelihood as well as health status earnings for SC farmers. Farmers were pleased and expected more such activities in near future.

Agriculture, Scheduled caste communities, Tarpaulins, Water pumps NIL 2022-07-03 Success story Ved Prakash, Rohan Kumar Raman, Govind Makarana, Pawan Jeet, Bikash Sarkar, Ashutosh Upadhyaya, Roshan Kumar, Ujjwal Kumar, Reena Kumari Kamal and Arti Kumari

Ved Prakash*

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Rohan Kumar Raman

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Govind Makarana

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Pawan Jeet

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Bikash Sarkar

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Ashutosh Upadhyaya

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Roshan Kumar

Kaushalya Foundation (NGO), Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Ujjwal Kumar

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Reena Kumari Kamal

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Arti Kumari

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

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466 1730355806 Biotica Research Today Gliricidia as the Marvellous Tree for Improving Soil Fertility in Agriculture Agriculture 503-505

Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Steud. (Syn. Gliricidia maculate H.B.K.) is a fast growing tropical, leguminous tree commonly known as Gliricidia or Madre tree. It is one of the commonest and best known multipurpose trees in many parts of Central America, Mexico, West Africa, West Indies, South Asia and Tropical Americas. It grown in lowland areas of the tropics having mean annual temperature of 22-30 °C and rainfall of 800-1700 mm. Growing Gliricidia trees on farm bunds serves dual purpose for the production of green leaf manure rich in nitrogen, under field condition and also helps in conserving soil through reduced soil erosion. Leaves are used as insecticides and insect repellent. Trees are used for timber, firewood, hedges, medical purposes, charcoal, live fences, plantation shade, poles, soil stabilization and as green manure. Gliricidia can play an important role in tropical farming system for increasing the soil fertility over a period of long-term.

Legume tree, Living fence, Nitrogen fixation, Soil fertility NIL 2022-07-04 Popular Article R. Sathya Priya, R. Kuttimani and N. Jagathjothi

R. Sathya Priya*

Dept. of Agronomy, Directorate of Crop Management, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

R. Kuttimani

Dept. of Agronomy, Directorate of Crop Management, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

N. Jagathjothi

Dept. of Agronomy, Directorate of Crop Management, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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467 1730356220 Biotica Research Today Cutting-Edge Methodologies and Tools in Fisheries Agriculture 506-509

The fisheries sector is one of the most profitable businesses; the cutting-edge technologies nurture them with more and more economical wealth and sustainability. The latest information and novel monitoring technologies are potential game-changers for fisheries resource management and foster the growth of sustainability in the sector. The utilization of novel technologies has enabled the government to collect more data on fish stocks, better monitor, enforce and evaluate the environmental impacts of fisheries activities and improve the effectiveness of policies to sustainably manage fisheries. To this end, there are many recent technological developments. Such technologies can be collaborative, i.e., involving more than one stakeholder group along the value chain, or non-collaborative which are set up by governments to monitor the fisheries sector. Thus, this article focuses on the burgeoning trends in the fisheries sector.

Burgeoning, Cutting-edge technology, Fisheries, Sustainability NIL 2022-07-05 Popular Article A. Kamalii, A. Mathivanan, T. Thilagavathi, C. Sangavi, Cheryl Antony and B. Ahilan

A. Kamalii*

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

A. Mathivanan

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

T. Thilagavathi

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

C. Sangavi

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Cheryl Antony 

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

B. Ahilan

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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468 1730357625 Biotica Research Today Deep Learning in Drug Discovery Agriculture 516-518

Deep learning (DL) techniques have been very effective and widely employed to build artificial intelligence (AI) in practically every sector over the past ten years, particularly after they acquired their proud record on computational Go. In comparison to conventional machine learning (ML) techniques, deep learning (DL) methods still have a long way to go before they are widely accepted in the discovery and development of small molecule drugs. Additionally, there is still much effort to be done in order to popularise and apply DL for research purposes, such as for the development and investigation of small molecule drugs. In this article, we focused on a few of the most popular DL strategies and how they were applied to the drug development process.

Artificial Intelligence, Deep learning, Drug discovery, Machine learning NIL 2022-07-10 Popular Article Parinita Das and Mamatha Y.S.

Parinita Das*

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Mamatha Y.S.

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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469 1730359355 Biotica Research Today Biocolourants and Their Applications in Food Industry Agriculture 524-528

Biocolorants are prepared from renewable sources and majority is of plant and microbial origin. The main food biocolorants are carotenoids, flavanoids, anthocyanins, chlorophyll, betalain and crocin, which are extracted from several horticultural plants. The pigments from microbial sources are a good alternative that could easily be produced in high yields and capability of producing different coloured pigments. Pigment producing microorganisms and microalgae are quite common in nature. Pigment produced by microorganisms includes carotenoids, melanins, flavins, quinones and more specifically monascins, violacein, phycocyanin or indigo. In addition to food coloring, biocolorants also act as antimicrobials, antioxygens and thereby prevent several diseases and disorders in human beings. Although, biocolorants have several potential benefits, yet tedious extraction procedures, low colour value, higher cost than synthetic dyes, instability during processing etc., hinders their popularity.

Biocolour, Food application, Microbial pigment, Plant pigment NIL 2022-07-13 Popular Article Poorniammal, R., S. Prabhu and A.R. Sakthi

Poorniammal, R.*

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Prabhu

Dept. of Plant Nematology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

A.R. Sakthi

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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470 1730359776 Biotica Research Today A Novel Bioactive Molecule Derived from Marine Resources and Their Anti-HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type - 1) Activity Agriculture 529-532

The current treatment for Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 infection is antiretroviral therapy (ART). So, it's important to keep looking for compounds with an anti-HIV-1 activity that could be used to make an alternative, cost-effective, side effect therapy to ART. The therapeutic potential of natural compounds and their derivatives against HIV makes them an excellent alternative. Zidovudine, an arabinonucleoside derivative of the Caribbean marine sponge (Tectitethya crypta) that inhibits the reverse transcriptase of the virus, is currently accessible as an anti-HIV-1 drug derived from natural substances. The antiviral drug isoxazole was the first to be approved to treat HIV infection. Bevirimat (found in Syzygium claviflorum) and calanolide A (found in Calophyllum sp.) are both antiviral agents that work by inhibiting the reverse transcription process. Natural substances with the anti-HIV-1 activity that can be evaluated to develop new therapeutic strategies to control the HIV pandemic were the focus of this article.

Anti-HIV activity, Bioactive components, HIV drugs, Marine sponges NIL 2022-07-14 Popular Article Ulaganathan Arisekar, Kumaresan Ajith Kumar, Robinson Jeya Shakila, Rajendran Shalini and Balasubramanium Sivaraman

Ulaganathan Arisekar*

Dept. of Fish Quality Assurance and Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Kumaresan Ajith Kumar

Dept. of Fish Quality Assurance and Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Robinson Jeya Shakila

Dept. of Fish Quality Assurance and Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Rajendran Shalini

Dept. of Fish Quality Assurance and Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Balasubramanium Sivaraman

Dept. of Fish Quality Assurance and Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

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471 1730377497 Biotica Research Today Leaf Webber, Diaphania pulverulentalis Hampson (Pyralidae: Lepidoptera): A Major Defoliator of Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Agriculture 533-535

In the practice of sericulture, the prevalence of numerous insect pests hinders the production of high-quality mulberry leaves, which in turn affects the production of high-quality silk. In recent days under changed climate conditions, leaf webber, Diaphania pulverulentalis which had minor pest status become a major concern in the production of healthy and quality leaves in some non-traditional mulberry belts in and around Tumkur, Karnataka, India. During a field visit to several locations, we witnessed the severity of leaf webber in almost all the visited fields. The apical portion of most of the mulberry plants was folded with two to three leaves intact; larva being inside. The infested plant can be easily recognized by the presence of fecal matter over the folded leaves. With reference to this, we discussed here the pest life cycle, habit, habitat, damaging symptoms along with management practices.

Defoliation, Leaf webber, Mulberry, Sericulture NIL 2022-07-15 Popular Article Suresh R. Jambagi and Neenu Augustine

Suresh R. Jambagi*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 065), India

Neenu Augustine

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 065), India

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472 1730377716 Biotica Research Today Leg Regeneration in Insects Agriculture 536-538

Since the time of Aristotle, regeneration has grabbed the attention of human thought and imagination. Scientists started to elucidate the ability of animals to regenerate their lost appendages actively in the 18th century. To date, several accounts of regeneration have been recognized in several groups ranging from vertebrates to tiny invertebrates, with varying regenerative potentials. Insect limb regeneration has now been explored well in a few insects such as stick insects, crickets and beetles. The inimitable feature of insect leg regeneration is that apart from complete wound healing, they should essentially undergo molting for any external changes in the regenerating legs.

Amputation, Insects, Limb, Regeneration NIL 2022-07-16 Popular Article Neenu Augustine and Meljo Thomas Karakunnel

Neenu Augustine*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 065), India

Meljo Thomas Karakunnel

Dept. of Media Studies, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 029), India

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473 1730378034 Biotica Research Today Genome Editing as a Tool for Developing Disease Resistance in Rice Agriculture 539-540

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/ CRISPR-associated protein 9 nuclease (Cas9) system has recently emerged as an efficient and versatile tool for genome editing in various organisms. The Cas9 endonuclease from Streptococcus pyogenes, along with an artificial guide RNA (gRNA), is able to target the DNA sequence of 5′-N20-NGG-3′ (N indicates any base), in which N20 is the same as 20 bases of the gRNA and NGG is the protospacer-adjacent motif (PAM). CRISPR/Cas9 based genome editing was also used to develop indica rice lines with increased resistance to BLB by targeting the EBE sequence in promoter region. The blast resistant mutants were obtained by targeting ERF922 gene. The base editing approach was used to develop mutants which show resistance to rice tungro virus.

CRISPR/Cas9, Disease resistance, Pathogen, Yield NIL 2022-07-18 Popular Article Sakthi A.R., C. Selvi and R. Poorniammal

Sakthi A.R.*

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

C. Selvi

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

R. Poorniammal

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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474 1730378684 Biotica Research Today Genome Edited Crops for Improved Food Security Agriculture 544-547

Food is a basic necessity of all forms of life. There are over 50,000 edible plants but not everyone is lucky to have enough food to eat. According to FAO, food security means that everyone, at all times, has physical, social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food for an active and healthy life. In India around 195 million people are currently undernourished. Conventional plant breeding has developed numerous crop varieties but not enough to meet the demands of food requirements due to limited genetic variation and linkage drags of undesirable traits. Genome editing could be utilized as a promising tool to address these problems for achieving the goal of end hunger by 2030. With the advancement of research on Site-Directed Nuclease (SDN) methods and various genome-edited tools viz., ZFNs, Meganucleases, TALENs, and CRISPR-Cas9, improved varieties could be developed for the benefit of smallholder farmers and consumers.

CRISPR-Cas9, Food security, Genome editing, Site-Directed Nuclease NIL 2022-07-21 Popular Article Richa Bora and Priyabrat Hazarika

Richa Bora*

Dept. of Plant Breeding & Genetics, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

Priyabrat Hazarika

Dept. of Agronomy, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

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475 1730379050 Biotica Research Today Sustainable Agriculture: A Holistic Voyage to Alleviate Climate Change and Food Security Agriculture 548-551

Sustainable agriculture methods and processes attempt to replace non-renewable resources with renewable resources while improving soil productivity while reducing negative consequences on the climate, soil, water, air, biodiversity, and human health. The sustainable farming types includes: Organic farming, Biodynamic farming, multiple cropping, Permaculture, Agroecological Systems and Low-input agriculture. It ensures that the basic nutritional requirements of current and future generations are met in both quantity and quality terms and that agriculture and can also generate additional products. The sustainable agriculture involves various principles, practices and strategies to achieve sustainability of farming communities.It focuses on local people and their knowledge, skills, socio-cultural values and institutional structures. The sustainable agriculture practices to be practiced at global level for the mitigation of climate change and to sustainable the food and nutritional security of humankind.

Agricultural biodiversity, Food security, Permaculture, Sustainable agriculture NIL 2022-07-22 Popular Article S.S. Rakesh, R. Murugaragavan, S.R. Shri Rangasami and B. Balamurali

S.S. Rakesh*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

R. Murugaragavan

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

S.R. Shri Rangasami

Rice Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Ambasamudram, Tamil Nadu (627 401), India

B. Balamurali

Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Manakkadavu, Pollachi, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (642 103), India

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476 1730379427 Biotica Research Today Biofertilizer: A Precious Tool for Sustainable Agriculture Agriculture 552-554

Fertilizers are used to fertilize plants with important primary nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). These fertilizers boost crop yields, but they also damage both ecosystem and human health with great severity. Consumer preferences are shifting to organic foods grown without the use of chemicals. Biofertilizers are one of nature's greatest gifts to our agricultural science as a partial alternative to chemical fertilizers. Biofertilizers contain microbes that promote an adequate supply of nutrients to the host plants and ensure their proper growth and regulation. Live microorganisms are used in the preparation of biofertilizers. As biofertilizers are essential components of sustainable agriculture, they play an important role in the long-term maintenance of soil fertility and the sustainability of agricultural production.

Biofertilizer, Microorganisms, Phosphate Mobilizers, Sustainable Agriculture NIL 2022-07-24 Popular Article Deblina Roy

Deblina Roy

Dept. of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

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477 1730379997 Biotica Research Today Polyamines: A Key Component in Plant Functions and Abiotic Stress Responses Agriculture 558-561

Polyamines are the organic molecules present in all living organisms and are involved in various metabolic activities. Polyamine plays a key role in diverse plant functions such as flowering, embryogenesis, cell division, seed germination, and senescence. In addition, polyamines play a vital role to protect the plant from various abiotic stresses. Changing environmental factors aggravate the yield losses in many crops and substantial crop losses in many countries. Abiotic stresses negatively impaired the plant function and cause physiological, morphological, and biochemical alterations to the plant. Therefore, adoption techniques are essential to ensure sustainable crop production. Hence utilizing the polyamines for abiotic stress is ensuring a successful crop production. Exogenous application of polyamines alleviates the cold, temperature, oxidative, drought, salt, and UV stress in various crops.

Abiotic stress, Embryogenesis, Flowering, Polyamine NIL 2022-07-30 Popular Article R. Arockia Infant Paul and P. Murali Arthanari

R. Arockia Infant Paul*

Dept. of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

P. Murali Arthanari

Dept. of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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478 1730380239 Biotica Research Today Drones: Applications in Agriculture Agriculture 562-563

The use of drones in the agricultural sector is only expected to rise as the industry matures, and so it is good to know how to use this technology judiciously. Drone is part of precision agriculture wherein GPS technology is used for navigation with precision and Google maps are used for spray mission planning for uniform spray of crop nutrients. Spraying through drones is beneficial farmers for optimal usage of agriculture inputs, savings of effort and time and dependencies on labor. Drones can cover up to 30 acres of spray day-1 using multiple batteries. Drones avoid exposure of farmers to harmful chemical while spraying. Drone spraying of crop nutrients is also helpful for all crops like sugarcane. Bushy crops like cotton and field like paddy. Drone also helpful for spraying of crop nutrients in hilly regions where in it’s difficult for other farm equipment to reach.

Agriculture, Crop health monitoring, Drone, Spraying NIL 2022-07-31 Popular Article M. Balasubramaniam

M. Balasubramaniam

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu (627 852), India

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479 1730459864 Biotica Research Today Genome Editing System for Insect Pest Management Agriculture 567-569

The recent advancement of gene-editing technologies such as Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats and associated protein (CRISPR/Cas) has opened new doors for the development of novel pest control strategies. CRISPR/Cas provides stable genetic modifications within pest populations, allowing for basic exploratory research as well as support for efforts to suppress pest populations using gene drives. Highly efficient precision guided SIT (pgSIT) technology that can be deployed as eggs which exclusively give rise to sterile males. pgSIT is extremely robust at genetically sexing and simultaneously sterilizing the resulting progeny reproducibly with 100% efficiency.

CRISPR/Cas, Genome editing, Pest management, pgSIT NIL 2022-08-08 Popular Article Rajadurai Gothandaraman

Rajadurai Gothandaraman

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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480 1730460155 Biotica Research Today Deep Learning: A Futuristic Approach to Agriculture Agriculture 570-572

Deep Learning (DL) techniques, mainly the methods of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN), have received considerable attention and are being used in diverse fields including the agricultural sector. Most agricultural research frequently employs software frameworks without thoroughly investigating the ideas and mechanisms of a technique. The present article provides a concise summary of major DL algorithms (CNN and RNN), including concepts, implementation and applications to the scientific community to gain a holistic picture of techniques quickly. The article summarises and analyses research on DL applications in agriculture, and also focused on future opportunities which in turn help agricultural researchers in better understanding and learning of DL algorithms that facilitate data analysis, enhance research in agriculture, and thus effectively promote DL applications.

Agriculture, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), Deep learning, Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN) NIL 2022-08-10 Popular Article Adarsh V.S., Gowthaman T. and Sankarganesh E.

Adarsh V.S.*

Dept. of Agricultural Statistics, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur, West Bengal (741 252), India

Gowthaman T.

Dept. of Agricultural Statistics, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur, West Bengal (741 252), India

Sankarganesh E.

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur, West Bengal (741 252), India

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481 1730460437 Biotica Research Today Crop Residue Management using Microbial Consortia: A Viable Alternative to Residue Burning Agriculture 573-575

Crop-residue is the biomass which is retained either below or on the soil surface after an economic product of a crop has been harvested. It includes leaves, straw, stubble, stalks, haulms, branches, twigs, fruits, roots, grain covers etc. Crops produce large amounts if residues which are potential natural resources that alter soil environment, which in turn influences the soil microbial activity and subsequent nutrient transformation. Residue burning is the most suitable method of disposal with a negative impact on environment releasing greenhouse gases and adversely affecting the soil properties. There are various methods available to manage the crop residues, among which, in situ decomposition using microbes is an effective and eco-friendly alternative. The challenges in crop residue management, methods and strategies for efficient management are discussed.

Burning, Crop-residues, Microbes, Sustainability NIL 2022-08-12 Popular Article V. Ramya and S. Ameer Basha

V. Ramya*

College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

S. Ameer Basha

College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

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482 1730460967 Biotica Research Today Herbicide Options for Maize Cultivation in India Agriculture 579-582

In India, the recent times herbicide-based weed management is getting popular due to the lack of labour and the adoption of zero tillage systems. Particularly, the wider-spaced (60 cm row to row) crops like maize. Along with the selection and application of herbicides; the farmers should have a thorough knowledge of how to read the label, use of personal protective equipment, and some of the terminologies that help in the protection of human health, enhance the efficiency of herbicides, and prevent soil and environmental pollutions are very much important. By considering the above points, in this article, we have briefly covered each point of herbicides used in maize. We believe that this article would help farmers, students, and scientists working in the field of weed management.

Half-life, Rainfast, Restricted entry interval, Weed infestation NIL 2022-08-16 Popular Article Prabhu Govindasamy, Rishi Raj, T.K. Das, Vijay Pooniya, Gopal Tiwari, Hanamant M. Halli and G.K. Sujay Anand

Prabhu Govindasamy*

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Rishi Raj

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

T.K. Das

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Vijay Pooniya

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Gopal Tiwari

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Hanamant M. Halli

ICAR-National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management, Baramati, Pune, Maharashtra (413 102), India

G.K. Sujay Anand

ICAR-Indian Institute of Pulse Research, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 024), India

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483 1730462161 Biotica Research Today Radiation Pollution: Source and Impacts Agriculture 590-592

Radioactive pollution is referred to release the radiation to environment by the human activities. Radiation is the emission of rays (Electromagnetic radiations) or particles (Corpuscular radiation). Natural sources of radiations include cosmic rays, environment and living organisms. Radionuclides of radium, thorium, uranium, C14 and K40 are commonly found in soil, rocks and air. Manmade resources of radiation include X-ray machines, radioactive fall outs nuclear reactor waste uses of radioactive materials in testing nuclear weapons research and treatment etc., biological effects of radiation or of short and long range and on somatic and genetic cells. Its most hazards type of pollution having its effects transmitted from generation to generation these may cause mutations, chromosomal abreactions, cancer etc., protective measures or only methods to control nuclear pollution of which risk free disposal is most effective.

Environment, Impacts, Pollution, Radiation NIL 2022-08-21 Popular Article S. Malathi

S. Malathi

Brackishwater Research Farm Facility, Institute of Fisheries Postgraduate Studies, OMR Campus, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

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484 1730462569 Biotica Research Today Isolation and Identification of Soil Borne Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis Agriculture 593-595

In India, lentil ranks second most important pulse crop next to chickpea both in area and production. All about 80,000 diseases have been recorded throughout the world, of them majority are associated with soil-borne diseases. Among Soil-borne diseases lentil wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis is most destructive pathogen causes yield loss up to 50% in farmer’s fields The pathogen was isolated from soil as well as from infected plant sample. The most commonly used media for isolation of F. oxysporum f. sp lentis is Potato dextrose agar medium (PDA), it is nutrient rich media for growing wide range of fungi and the method used for isolation from soil is dilution for pour plating at 10-4 conc. The pathogen was detected after obtaining pure culture, primarily through cultural characters, microscopic observation of micro and macro conidia and by using molecular methods like DNA finger printing and PCR based methods.

F. oxysporum f. sp lentis, Fingerprinting, Lentil, PCR NIL 2022-08-22 Popular Article Ashwini E., Dinkwar G.T. and Nandeesha S.V.

Ashwini E.*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (JNKVV), Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

Dinkwar G.T.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (JNKVV), Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

Nandeesha S.V.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (JNKVV), Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

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485 1730523703 Biotica Research Today A Success Story on Livelihood Opportunities through Improved Livestock Practices Agriculture 596-597

The present story depicts the success of Smt. Sumi Hansda, resident of Piprasol village (Bihar), by adopting scientific livestock practices. At the initial stage, she adopted improved health practices, in which she provided regular deworming and vaccination to the animal. By adopting improved health practices, the mortality rate has been reduced significantly and results in increased herd size. Regular feeding and watering pattern has also improved the animal health. Thus, she raised her income significantly by selling goat and poultry. During the recent year, she started growing azolla and gliricidia in order to provide feed to the goat. Further she has radiated the positivity to the locality nearby and now many women are drawing motivation from her work.

Feeding pattern, Goat, Health practices, Livestock NIL 2022-08-23 Success story Mohit Sharma, Tulika Kumari and Rajesh Kumar Bishnoi

Mohit Sharma*

Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Tulika Kumari

Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Rajesh Kumar Bishnoi

Angargariya Srijoni Shiksha Niketan, Jharkhand (815 353), India

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486 1730524393 Biotica Research Today Integrated Disease Management Strategy for Root Wilt in Coconut Agriculture 601-602

Root wilt disease caused by phytoplasma is one of the most devasting diseases of coconut palms. The major symptoms of the disease in leaves are wilting and drooping and flaccidity; ribbing, paling/ yellowing and necrosis of leaflets are typical symptoms of foliar diseases. Unopened pale yellow leaflets of spindle leaves are more susceptible to leaf rot disease, which is caused by Exerohilum rostratum and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. The disease was transmitted by plant hoppers (Proutista moesta) and lace wing bug (Stephanitis typica). Phytoplasmas are generally present in the phloem sieve tubes and in the salivary glands of these insect vectors. Root wilt is a non-lethal, debilitating disease, and it can be efficiently managed by the following integrated management practices.

Coconut, Management, Root wilt, Symptoms NIL 2022-08-25 Popular Article M. Balasubramaniam

M. Balasubramaniam

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu (627 852), India

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487 1730524628 Biotica Research Today Impact of Nanotechnology on Tuber Crops: One Step Forward for Crop Improvement Agriculture 603-605

Numerous challenges in agriculture might perhaps be solved through nanotechnology. Applications based on nanotechnology have been used in the agriculture sector for several years. In addition to addressing reduced environmental harm and crop loss, it is highly beneficial in improving crops in many ways. Although tuber crops are currently underused, there are relatively few nanotechnologies used in this field. As a result, this study highlights the applications of nanotechnology in agriculture, as well as its significance for improving tuber crop yields.

Nano-fertilizer, Nanoparticles, Nanopesticides, Nanosensors NIL 2022-08-26 Popular Article Alok Kumar Giri, Kalidas Pati, Biswajit Jena and Varsha Acharya

Alok Kumar Giri*

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crop Research Institute, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Kalidas Pati

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crop Research Institute, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Biswajit Jena

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crop Research Institute, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Varsha Acharya

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crop Research Institute, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

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488 1730528226 Biotica Research Today Tuta absoluta: An Invasive Pest of Tomato Agriculture 623-624

Tomato is one of the most important vegetable crops next to potato grown worldwide for fresh market and processing. Due to its tenderness and softness, tomato is more prone to insect pests and diseases as compared to other vegetable crops. Insect-pest is one of the major factors causing devastation of tomato crop. The South American tomato pinworm, Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera; Gelechiidae) is an invasive pest of tomato that is rapidly expanding around the world. It was also reported in India, recently. Tomato leaf minor (Tuta absoluta) is an infectious and devastating pest of tomato, causing serious damage and leads to 100% yield loss.

Invasive, Pest, Tomato, Tuta absoluta NIL 2022-08-31 Popular Article Sudha Singh, Sakshi Singh, Deepak Sharma, Preeti Kaundil and T. Ilakiya

Sudha Singh*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Sakshi Singh

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Deepak Sharma

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Preeti Kaundil

Dept. of Entomology, Dr YSPUHF, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

T. Ilakiya

Dept. of Vegetable Science, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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489 1730529795 Biotica Research Today September (2022) Zero Budget Natural Farming: An Agricultural Revolution Agriculture 625-628

A farmer who practises zero budget natural farming (ZBNF) does not need to buy fertilizers and pesticides from the market to ensure the healthy growth of plants. It is a sustainable way to farm that aids farmers in maintaining soil fertility, restores soil health to assure chemical-free agriculture and low production costs, and thereby doubles their income. Although the method encourages chemical-free farming, there is still insufficient data to determine its efficacy. It is one of the most promising farming options or techniques in the face of unpredictable extreme weather. As it does not encourage numerous intercultural activities, as a result the engagement of hired manual labourers, it is a low cost and climate resilient farming techniques where all the inputs are locally available. This practice takes less time and effort than organic farming tasks.

Chemical-free farming, Jeevamruta, Organic farming, Zero Budget Natural Farming NIL 2022-09-05 Popular Article Deblina Roy

Deblina Roy

Dept. of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

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490 1730530074 Biotica Research Today September (2022) Sweet Potato [Ipomea batatas (L) Lam.]: A Nutritional and Valuable Medicinal Food Agriculture 629-631

Sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L.) is a useful tuber vegetable. It has many beneficial properties like anti-oxidative, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-inflamatory activities and it is possible due to the presence of phytochemicals like saponin, flavonoids, phenolic compounds etc. in it. It also consists of many nutritional values so it considered as a valuable staple food.

Ipomea batatas, Phytochemical, Staple food, Sweet potato NIL 2022-09-08 Popular Article Pinki Mohapatra, Samarendra Narayan Mallick, Sarita Biswal and Vijay Bahadur Singh Chauhan

Pinki Mohapatra*

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Samarendra Narayan Mallick

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

]Sarita Biswal

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Vijay Bahadur Singh Chauhan

Regional Centre, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

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491 1730531388 Biotica Research Today September (2022) Real-Time PCR: A Sensitive, Specific and Rapid Diagnostics Assay of Fish and Shellfish Pathogens Agriculture 635-637

The real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction) assay is one of the most commonly used techniques in disease diagnostics. This advanced form of PCR has both pros and cons. Real-time PCR has advantages over conventional PCR in terms of specificity, rapidity, and sensitivity to identify a pathogen at the genomic level. It has many forms of chemistry, such as SYBR green-based, probe-based, etc., based on its working principle. Many researchers have reported that real-time PCR could accurately detect and identify various fish pathogens. However, it has some drawbacks, such as the high cost and required a skilled person to operate this assay.

Diagnostics, Pathogens, Real-time PCR, SYBR green NIL 2022-09-12 Popular Article Pratapa M.G., David Waikhom and Laishram Soniya Devi

Pratapa M.G.

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

David Waikhom*

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Laishram Soniya Devi

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

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492 1730531806 Biotica Research Today September (2022) Value Addition and Processing of Vegetables Agriculture 638-639

India is bestowed with diverse agroclimatic zones which permit the cultivation of wide variety of horticultural crops growing over different regions of the country. India ranks second next to China, in terms of fruits and vegetable production. But with the rising population, India still lags behind to combat the food security concerns. Every year, enormous volume of food is wasted owing to post-harvest damages. Post-harvest losses accounts for approximately 20-50% in developing countries and 10-15% in developed countries. Therefore, instead of raising production to combat hunger and poverty and improve standards of living and food security, decreasing post-harvest losses is the need of the hour for greater sustainability.

Post-harvest losses, Processing, Value addition, Vegetable NIL 2022-09-15 Popular Article Sakshi Singh, Sudha Singh, Deepak Sharma, Rajender Kumar and T. Ilakiya

Sakshi Singh*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Dr YSPUHF, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Sudha Singh

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Dr YSPUHF, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Deepak Sharma

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Dr YSPUHF, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Rajender Kumar

Dept. of Horticulture, GBPUAT, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

T. Ilakiya

Dept. of Vegetable Science, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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493 1730533125 Biotica Research Today September (2022) Big Data Analytics in Agriculture Agriculture 648-651

In India, majority of the farmers are not getting the expected crop yield due to several reasons. In this situation, using multiple elements that influence production to identify crop adaptability and yield can improve crop quality and yield, resulting in higher economic growth and profitability. As a result, many farmers have begun to employ new technology and methods to improve their farming operations. Big data, machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) can play a key role in this process. Big Data Analytics is a Data-Driven technology useful in generating significant productivity improvement in various industries by collecting, storing, managing, processing and analyzing various kinds of structured and unstructured data. Big data analytics are important to the core of various applications since data is the raw material which is fed as the input for processing. Volume, velocity, value, veracity and variety are the five V’s which is considered as the characteristics of big data. Hadoop is the main framework for big data analysis which is open source software.

Agriculture, Big data, Data analysis, Precision agriculture NIL 2022-09-23 Popular Article R. Narmadha, P. Murali Arthanari and R. Arockia Infant Paul

R. Narmadha*

Dept. of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

P. Murali Arthanari

Dept. of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

R. Arockia Infant Paul

Dept. of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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494 1730533379 Biotica Research Today September (2022) Role of Internet of Things (IoT) in Biogas Systems Agriculture 652-653

Several advancements in biogas production techniques and plant design have been achieved in recent years. Boom in internet use and automation goals had brought IoT into play in many sectors including agriculture, industry, transport and energy as well. Coupling the IoT with energy sector, specifically the biogas systems made several benefits in the aspects of production, management, safety and environment. Here the paper discusses the importance of IoT in the biogas systems through its technology and applications.

Biogas, Internet of Things, Methane estimation, Optimization NIL 2022-09-24 Popular Article Rathinavel S., Ayisha Naziba T. and Mahendiran R.

Rathinavel S.*

Dept. of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, AEC & RI, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 664), India

Ayisha Naziba T.

Dept. of Renewable Energy Engineering, AEC & RI, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 664), India

Mahendiran R.

Dept. of Renewable Energy Engineering, AEC & RI, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 664), India

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495 1730550482 Biotica Research Today October (2022) Entomopathogenic Fungi: Need of Sustainable Agriculture Agriculture 657-661

Entomopathogenic fungi are a major component of integrated pest management techniques as biological control agents against insect pests and other arthropods in agriculture, horticulture and forestry. Use of microbial agents particularly entomopathogenic fungi, have been investigated for the control of a wide range of orchard, field crop pests and are widespread component of most terrestrial ecosystems. Insect control using entomopathogenic fungi is achieved when sufficient infective propagules, conidia contact a susceptible host and conditions are suitable for a lethal mycosis to develop. Most of these fungi, along with a range of bacteria, can grow on artificial media in vitro. During the last four decades, numbers of companies worldwide have developed mycoinsecticides and myco-acaricides. Use of mycoinsecticides is likely to rise if research is focus on; improving its performance under challenging environmental conditions, formulations that will increase persistence, longer shelf life, ease of application, pathogen virulence and wider spectrum of action.

Biological control, Biopesticides, Entomopathogenic fungi, Pest management NIL 2022-10-04 Popular Article Dinkwar G.T. and Ashwini E.

Dinkwar G.T.*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, JNKVV, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

Ashwini E.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, JNKVV, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

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496 1730550701 Biotica Research Today October (2022) Environmental Impact of Biogas Agriculture 662-664

Recently, renewable energy sources have attracted interest in several nations. Of which is crucial in rural regions, is biogas. Because of several factors, including "renewable," "economic," "environmental pollution," "global warming," "greenhouse effect," and "public health," developed and developing nations as well as certain international organisations are moving toward biogas. It is anticipated that fossil fuel-based energy sources would exhaust quickly and efficient use of resources is not practicable, compelling the employment of increasingly effective and prevalent renewable energy sources. All types of organic waste have been treated and turned into electrical energy using biogas systems, along with reduction of waste-related environmental and air pollution. Bio-fertilizer is the digested slurry produced after biogas production that is extremely effective in sustainable agriculture. Electricity generated is supplied to the public power grid. Additionally, the heat generated during this process is utilised to warm buildings adjacent to plants, including greenhouses and homes.

Biogas, Ecology, Economics, Renewable energy NIL 2022-10-06 Popular Article Ayisha Naziba T., Rathinavel S. and Mahendiran R.

Ayisha Naziba T.*

Dept. of Renewable Energy Engineering, AEC & RI, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Rathinavel S.

Dept. of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, AEC & RI, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Mahendiran R.

Dept. of Renewable Energy Engineering, AEC & RI, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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497 1730551222 Biotica Research Today October (2022) Sweet Potato Weevil: A Serious Scare to the Storage Roots Agriculture 665-667

Sweet potato, Ipomoea batatas is one of the important root vegetables grown throughout the globe. The production of crop is hindered as it is grown in low input conditions which in turn accounts for occurrence of the insects. The sweet potato weevil (SPW), Cylas formicarius (Fabricius) is one of the major responsible for the huge loss in healthy tuber production. The economic loss not solely because of the yield loss caused by feeding of larvae and adult weevils, but also as a result of feeding accompanied by excess production of terpenoid production, associated off-odour and bitter taste. IPM strategy can be adopted for the better management of the weevils.

Cylas formicarius, Re-riding, Sweet potato, Terpenoids NIL 2022-10-08 Popular Article Poornima G., Chaithra T.N., Harish E.R. and G. Mahendiran

Poornima G.*

Division of Germplasm Collection and Characterization, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 024), India

Chaithra T.N.

Division of Germplasm Collection and Characterization, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 024), India

Harish E.R.

Division of Crop Protection, ICAR-CTCRI, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 017), India

G. Mahendiran

Division of Germplasm Collection and Characterization, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 024), India

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498 1730552020 Biotica Research Today October (2022) Current National Law Related Biodiversity in India Agriculture 672-675

The phrase "biodiversity" refers to the diversity of life on earth, including the millions of different types of plants, animals, and microorganisms, as well as the genes they carry and the complex and frequently delicate ecosystems they generate. Only the abundance and diversity of nature can coexist with humans. As a result, numerous species of plants and animals are endangered and in danger of going extinct. They merit our protection. Biodiversity is essential in a number of ways, which include helping to promote the aesthetic value of the natural environment and contributing to our material well-being by giving food, timber, fuel and medicine. This is in relation to the variety of habitats, biotic communities, & ecosystem systems in the biosphere. Botanical gardens, zoological gardens, reforestation, national parks, sanctuaries, biosphere reserves, germplasm banks, breeding techniques, tissue culture techniques, and social forestry to reduce stress on the exploitation of forest resources are some of the current measures of biodiversity conservation.

Biodiversity, Conservation, Management, National law NIL 2022-10-11 Popular Article Sanjay Chandravanshi and Abinaya R.

Sanjay Chandravanshi*

Dept. of Fisheries Biology and Resource Management, Fisheries College & Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Abinaya R.

Dept. of Fisheries Resource Management, Faculty of Fisheries, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Panangad, Cochin, Kerala (682 506), India

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499 1730552284 Biotica Research Today October (2022) Role of Market-Led Extension in Indian Agriculture Agriculture 676-679

Since the previous 50 years, Indian agriculture has achieved enormous strides, becoming self-sufficient in the production of food grains. Even though production has greatly grown, monetary incentives to entice farmers have not been successful. It also entails strengthening the ability of the agricultural sector to boost productivity and profit maximization through the emerging trend of extension service. According to the WTO, in order to reap the best returns on their investments, farmers at all levels must transition from production and selling on the home market to producer and seller on the larger market scene. The paradigm shift of current agricultural situations, which calls for the sector's transformation into a profit-oriented enterprise, makes the need for market-led imperative. However, the Market-led extension help the farmers to improve the quality of farm produce, increase the product value and marketability resulting in increasing of income to the farmers.

Capacity building, Market Led Extension, Paradigm shift, Sustainable Agriculture NIL 2022-10-12 Popular Article R.K. Rout, S.K. Sahoo, Simly Das, B.K. Mandal and S. Behera

R.K. Rout*

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhawanipatna, Odisha (766 001), India

S.K. Sahoo

Dept. of Agricultural Extension, Major S.D. Singh Degree College, CSJMU, Mohammdabad, Uttar Pradesh (209 651), India

Simly Das

Dept. of Nematology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhawanipatna, Odisha (766 001), India

B.K. Mandal

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

S. Behera

Dept. of Seed Science and Technology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Chiplima, Odisha (768 026), India

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500 1730553286 Biotica Research Today October (2022) Bionematicides in India: Opportunities and Challenges Agriculture 687-691

Plant parasitic nematodes are considered as a hidden enemy of crop plants and responsible for a 12.6% annual yield loss. In addition to causing direct damage to crops, they interact with fungi and bacteria to aggravate diseases. Chemical nematicides are used to control plant parasitic nematodes. They have, however, been demonstrated to be harmful to humans, animals, and the environment, causing pollution of natural resources and the environment. Chemicals are unreliable because they cannot provide protection over the long term. Some chemical nematicides have recently been banned, and those that are still in use are quite expensive and out of reach for small farmers. Therefore, scientists are searching for a suitable replacement that will make the control of nematodes sustainable. Bionematicides have several advantages over chemical nematicides, including being environmentally friendly and cost effective. When established in soil, they can provide long-term protection against nematodes.

Bionematicides, Challenges, Nematodes, Opportunities NIL 2022-10-16 General Articles J. Gulsar Banu

J. Gulsar Banu

Regional Station, ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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501 1730617782 Biotica Research Today October (2022) A Success Story on Participatory Seed Production in Soybean by Tribal Farmer of Manipur Agriculture 692-694

Seed being vital input to agriculture, continuous efforts are to be made to ensure availability quality seeds to farmers in order to sustain the agricultural development. Farmers need to have access to improved seeds of the right type, at the right time, at the right place and at a reasonable price. Therefore an initiative has been made to increased availability and accessibility of the good quality seeds of high yielding varieties of soybean. The scientists of AICRP (Soybean), CAU, Imphal centre have encouraged tribal farmers of Manipur to take up seed production of soybean. The on-farm experience revealed that seed production of soybean is beneficial to the farmer’s income over that of normal cultivation, though additional cost was incurred towards rouging operations. This article narrates the success story of the farmer who could produce 1,800 kg ha-1 of good quality soybean seeds with which he can supply to an area of 32 ha.

Benefit cost ratio, Farmer participatory approach, Seed production, Soybean NIL 2022-10-17 Success story H. Nanita Devi, T. Sunanda Devi, Nilima Karam and L. Sophia Devi

H. Nanita Devi*

College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur (795 004), India

T. Sunanda Devi

College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur (795 004), India

Nilima Karam

College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur (795 004), India

L. Sophia Devi

College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur (795 004), India

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502 1730618172 Biotica Research Today October (2022) Impact of Technological Advancement on Environment Agriculture 695-697

Over time and in terms of sustainability, technological innovation has altered effectively and beneficence. By 2050, the population of major cities, particularly in developing countries, will have more than doubled. The environment is quickly deteriorating. Experts consider that the environment will collapse in the near future. Technology is assumed to be one of the major contributing factors of this degradation. As a result, numerous people regard advanced technologies as an evil spirit rather than a great privilege to the environment and humankind. The objective of this paper is to look into the effects of technological advancement on the standard of living in the Indian context. Besides advances in science and technology has been proven to be a great asset in many disciplines, but there are numerous areas where the impact is negative, as well as the consequences of the impact is immense.

Advancement, Environment, Impacts, Technology NIL 2022-10-18 Popular Article C. Nivaethaa and E. Parameswari

C. Nivaethaa

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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503 1730618664 Biotica Research Today October (2022) Time Series Forecasting on Onion Production in Tamil Nadu using Appropriate Statistical Models Agriculture 698-700

A study on forecasting of production of onion crops in Tamil Nadu has been undertaken to fit different trend equations like linear, non-linear and time series models also made the future forecasts by 2023 AD. The study crops in all the districts of Tamil Nadu state as a whole using time series data from 1970-1971 to 2019-2020. For forecasting purpose linear and non-linear growth models viz., linear, logarithmic, inverse, quadratic, cubic, power, s-curve, logistic and exponential and time series models like ARIMA models were fitted to the onion production in Tamil Nadu. The best fitted model for future projection was chosen based upon least RMSE, R2 and MAPE values. ARIMA model was identified as the best model for onion production. It was observed that in Tamil Nadu, onion production showed decreasing trend by 2023 AD.

ARIMA, Linear Model, MAE, RMSE NIL 2022-10-19 General Articles B. Sivasankari, P. Sujatha, M. Ilamaran and S. Sheeba

B. Sivasankari*

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

P. Sujatha

Dept. of Social Sciences, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Eachangkottai, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu (641 902), India

M. Ilamaran

Dept. of Food Science and Nutrition, Community Science College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

S. Sheeba

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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504 1730699968 Biotica Research Today October (2022) Light Pollution and Its Impact on Humans and Animal Health Agriculture 701-703

The need for urban housing construction has grown due to the expanding world population, not just in cities but also in suburbs and rural regions. Due to the slow but rapid urbanisation and globalisation, individuals now lead new "night lifestyles," participating in numerous entertainment activities from late at night to early in the morning. Our cities increasingly employ more different types of lighting systems as a result of the growth in urban construction and changes in lifestyles, to the point that some cities, like Mumbai and New York City, are referred to as "the city that never sleep." Even while they may have a large economic impact, they have little to no knowledge of the broader harm they are doing. Therefore, this paper highlights the numerous forms and causes of light pollution, as well as its effects on everything from astronomy to plants, animals, and people.

Artificial Night Light, Environmental Impacts, Light Pollution, Sky Glow NIL 2022-10-20 Popular Article Priyanga, S. and E. Parameswari

Priyanga, S.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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505 1730703421 Biotica Research Today October (2022) Nanotechnology for Shelf Life Enhancement in Vegetable Crops Agriculture 722-724

Vegetables are highly perishable due to physical damage, moisture loss, biochemical changes, and post-harvest microbial activities, which reduce the quality and shelf-life of vegetables. Hence they cannot be stored for a long time without proper management. As per the FAO report, 20 to 44% loss of vegetables occurs in the world every year because of poor post-harvest management practices. Nanotechnology is one of the best solutions for overcoming these losses because it has not yet been linked to any adverse side effects; thus, it can be effectively used to extend the shelf life of fresh vegetables. Nano-materials are natural biodegradable materials of < 100 nm size that can be used for shelf life enhancement of fresh vegetables. These have unique attributes like a barrier against moisture loss, mechanical, anti-bacterial, photo-catalytic and thermal properties, which help to minimize the post-harvest loss in vegetables.

Nanotechnology, Post-harvest loss, Shelf life, Vegetables NIL 2022-10-27 Popular Article Latha G.K. and Devaraju

Latha G.K.*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture (Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga), Mudigere, Karnataka (577 132), India

Devaraju

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture (Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga), Mudigere, Karnataka (577 132), India

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506 1730703820 Biotica Research Today October (2022) Effect of Indoor Air Pollution Agriculture 725-727

Indoor Air Pollution awareness is growing in the recent years since human population tend to spend their time mostly indoors and is produced by many indoor activities such as cooking, smoking, etc. In addition many deaths and diseases are caused by them such as cancers, stroke, tumours, anaemia, etc. Some of such critical indoor air pollutants include radon, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, smoke from tobacco. This danger that is prevailing can be overcome by using precautionary methods such as source reduction, public awareness, changes in fuel patterns.

Diseases, Human health, Indoor air pollutant, Pollution NIL 2022-10-28 Popular Article Ramakrishnan, S. and E. Parameswari

Ramakrishnan, S.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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507 1730808046 Biotica Research Today Tree Improvement Programme for Mahua (Madhuca longifolia) in Eastern India Horticulture 452-455

Mahua (Madhuca longifolia) serves as both a cultural cornerstone and economic lifeline for tribal communities. Its remarkable versatility spans from food and medicine to agricultural applications. Mahua is considered to be a valuable species for reforestation and agroforestry purposes due to its immense drought resistance and soil-enriching capabilities. However, the species is facing severe biotic and abiotic pressures despite its high economic importance. Destructive harvesting practices, particularly the burning of ground beneath trees to collect flowers and fruits, severely impact both mature trees and natural regeneration. Also, the natural distribution of the species is rapidly shifting due to climate change. In response, the ICFRE-Institute of Forest Productivity has initiated a comprehensive conservation program in eastern India, focusing on improved planting and breeding strategies to protect both the species and the communities dependent on it.

Distribution shift, Forest conservation, NTFP, Tribal livelihoods NIL 2024-10-14 Popular Article Animesh Sinha, Ayushman Malakar, Minakshi Pradhan, Amarjeet Minz, Sushit Banerjee and Atanu Sarkar

Animesh Sinha*

Genetics and Tree Improvement Division, ICFRE-Institute of Forest Productivity, Ranchi, Jharkhand (835 303), India

Ayushman Malakar

Genetics and Tree Improvement Division, ICFRE-Institute of Forest Productivity, Ranchi, Jharkhand (835 303), India

Minakshi Pradhan

Genetics and Tree Improvement Division, ICFRE-Institute of Forest Productivity, Ranchi, Jharkhand (835 303), India

Amarjeet Minz

Genetics and Tree Improvement Division, ICFRE-Institute of Forest Productivity, Ranchi, Jharkhand (835 303), India

Sushit Banerjee

Genetics and Tree Improvement Division, ICFRE-Institute of Forest Productivity, Ranchi, Jharkhand (835 303), India

Atanu Sarkar

Genetics and Tree Improvement Division, ICFRE-Institute of Forest Productivity, Ranchi, Jharkhand (835 303), India

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508 1730863759 Biotica Research Today Insect’s Resistance to Insecticides Agriculture 745-746

The indiscriminate use of insecticides in the agricultural ecosystems leads to development of resistance apart from disturbing the natural balance exists in the ecosystem. More than 325 insecticide compounds recorded resistance against one or more target insects. The crop pests and animal pests developed resistance against organochlorine, organophosphate, carbamate and pyrethroid group of insecticides. The physiological and behavioral mechanisms are the two important mechanisms responsible for resistant development in target insects. The rotation of insecticides, need based application, use of synergists and integration with other methods are some of management strategies to manage insecticide resistance.

Insecticides, Insects, Mechanism, Resistance NIL 2022-11-03 Popular Article Arulkumar, G., Shanmugam, P.S., T. Srinivasan and V. Bhaskaran

Arulkumar, G.

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Shanmugam, P.S.*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

T. Srinivasan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V. Bhaskaran

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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509 1730864376 Biotica Research Today Lipid Peroxidation: Its Mechanism and Significance Agriculture 750-752

Lipid peroxidation is one of the primary methods for the degradation of important agricultural, industrial, food, and chemical industry products. This results in product degradation that lowers the quality and quantity of seed production, which has a direct impact on the farmer's output. Initiation, propagation, and termination are the three main phases of lipid peroxiation. In the presence of hydroxyl ions, the double-bonded polyunsaturated lipid (PUFA) reacts to create an unstable lipid molecule. When this unstable lipid molecule interacts with oxygen to form a lipid peroxyl radical, the seed membrane is severely damaged and the integrity of the membrane is compromised. Only chain breaking and termination of lipid molecules can stop the continuous process of lipid peroxidation. Antioxidants that are good for you, such CAT, POX, SOD, and MDA, aid in breaking chain termination.

Antioxidant, Chain termination, Lipid peroxidation, PUFA NIL 2022-11-05 Popular Article Deepak Rao, Ashwini Vijal Sakpal and Ravish Choudhary

Deepak Rao*

Division of Seed Science and technology, Indian Agriculture Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Ashwini Vijal Sakpal

Division of Seed Science and technology, Indian Agriculture Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Ravish Choudhary

Division of Seed Science and technology, Indian Agriculture Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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510 1730864769 Biotica Research Today Recent Scope and Developments in Synthetic Vegetable Seeds Agriculture 753-755

Synthetic seed technology has great potential in the conservation and large-scale multiplication of plant propagules. In recent years much research has been carried out for producing good plant propagules, better conversion rate, good germination rate and preservation. This technology could be more useful where there is a requirement for a huge amount of propagating material or costly hybrid seed. So applicability of this technology is more in the vegetable industry and research so that farmers could get quality planting material at a cheaper rate and produce more vegetables at lower seed rates. Synthetic seed production by encapsulating somatic embryos, shoot buds or any other meristematic tissue can minimize the cost of micro-propagated plantlets for commercialization and final delivery.

Encapsulation, Somatic embryos, Synthetic seeds, Vegetable industry NIL 2022-11-06 Popular Article Latha G.K. and Nagesh

Latha G.K.*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture (Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga), Mudigere, Karnataka (577 132), India

Nagesh

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Horticulture (University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot), Bagalkot, Karnataka (587 101), India

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511 1730865757 Biotica Research Today Genetically Modified (GM) Crops in India for Ensuring Food Security: Issues and Challenges Agriculture 756-759

The world's population, which is growing at an alarming rate is expected to reach 8.1 billion by 2025, is facing serious challenges as a result of factors like population expansion, global warming, the depletion of natural resources like land and water, as well as biotic and abiotic stresses. Also as per United Nations ‘World Population Prospects’ India soon will be the most populous country by 2023 even surpassing China. So it becomes a great responsibility for a country to feed such a huge population with limited natural resources. However, agricultural biotechnology can improve the quality and quantity of crops. Genetic engineering isolates, manipulates, and inserts a gene into a foreign background to obtain a desired phenotype. The present article is all about the current position of India in global production of transgenic crops, why these are protested and need of the hour.

Agricultural Biotechnology, Climate change, Food Security, GM Crop NIL 2022-11-07 Popular Article Rakhi Biswal, Kailash Chandra Samal and Jyoti Prakash Sahoo

Rakhi Biswal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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512 1730867088 Biotica Research Today Fisheries in Assam: Status and Way Forward Agriculture 768-770

Assam has rich and diverse fisheries resources in the form of rivers, floodplain wetlands, forest fisheries, ponds, etc. and endowed with rich fish diversity. Total fish production of Assam in 2021-22 was 4,17,000 MT. During 2019-20, the state ranked 12th in terms of overall fish production and 7th in inland fish production in the country. The state occupies third position after West Bengal and Jharkhand with respect to fish seed production. Per capita fish consumption in the state stands at 11.72 kg year-1. Though production has increased over the years, there is still tremendous scope for improvement, considering that majority of its resources is under-utilized till date. Keeping in view these facts, the present article focuses on existing status of fisheries in the state and the measures needed to augment fish production.

Assam, Fish production, Potential, Resources NIL 2022-11-10 Popular Article Bipasha Nandi, Priyanka Priyadarshini, Rajesh Debnath, Simanku Borah and Anil Kumar Yadav

Bipasha Nandi*

College of Fisheries, Assam Agricultural University, Raha, Nagaon, Assam (782 103), India

Priyanka Priyadarshini

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, HOUSEFED Complex, Dispur, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Rajesh Debnath

Dept. of Fisheries, Government of Assam, Guwahati, Assam (781 016), India

Simanku Borah

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, HOUSEFED Complex, Dispur, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Anil Kumar Yadav

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, HOUSEFED Complex, Dispur, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

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513 1730867534 Biotica Research Today Innovations in Value Addition of Pangasius hypophthalmus Fish Agriculture 771-772

Pangasius hypophthalmus is regarded as underutilized fish but contains the excellent nutritional composition. Studies over the past years proved that pangasius could serve as a potential source for the development of diversified value-added products. In the current scenario, the development of novel value-added fish-based products is necessary due to changing demands of the consumer. The existing knowledge of different value-added products required the augmentation of new technology or different products. Pangasius fish can be a promising candidate for value addition.

Analog, Pangasius, Smoked product, Value addition NIL 2022-11-11 Popular Article M. Bhargavi Priyadarshini and Naresh Kumar Mehta

M. Bhargavi Priyadarshini*

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

Naresh Kumar Mehta

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

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514 1730867886 Biotica Research Today Techniques to Improve Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Rice Agriculture 773-774

Efforts to improve food security for the growing population adversely affected the environment by excess application of nitrogenous fertilizers in the soil. A standard shift is needed for the efficient use of nitrogenous fertilizers as well as increase in rice production. Nitrogen use efficiency in rice is associated with uptake of nitrogen from the soil, its accumulation and transport inside the plant which is influenced by many factors. A variety of agronomical, physiological and molecular approaches can be used to improve the nitrogen use efficiency. An economical and feasible method could be developed to incorporate by every farmer.

Environment, Fertilizer, Food security, Production NIL 2022-11-12 Popular Article Shanmugapriya D. and Senthil A.

Shanmugapriya D.*

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Senthil A.

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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515 1730868964 Biotica Research Today Spray Induced Gene Silencing (SIGS): A New Domain in Plant Disease Management Agriculture 775-777

Gene silencing is a negative feedback mechanism which is used in plants against diseases and crop improvement. Sustainable management of crop diseases demand novel, eco-friendly, cost effective and transgenic free strategies. An alternative approach is need of hour to avoid chemical fungicides, to overcome conventional breeding and transgenic methods. The RNA interference (RNAi) is a natural defence mechanism against foreign nucleic acids, transposons and viruses which is found in all eukaryotic organisms. The Host Induced Gene Silencing (HIGS) is not popular mainly because of the public concerns for the consumption of genetically modified crops and instability of RNA silenced genetically engineered crops. A recent and novel discovery, Spray Induced Gene Silencing (SIGS) is based on RNAi mechanism which uses the topical application of pathogen specific double stranded RNA (dsRNA) on plant surface that confers disease resistance in plants. This sprayable RNA with nanotechnology is an effective sustainable strategy for crop protection.

Double stranded RNA (dsRNA), Nanoparticles, RNA interference (RNAi), Spray Induced Gene Silencing (SIGS) NIL 2022-11-13 Popular Article Santhoshinii E., Shamarao Jahagirdar, Shanmuga Priya D., Siva M. and Pothiraj G.

Santhoshinii E.*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

Shamarao Jahagirdar

Dept. of Plant Pathology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

Shanmuga Priya D.

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Siva M.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Pothiraj G.

Nammazhvar College of Agriculture and Technology, Kamuthy, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu (623 708), India

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516 1730869783 Biotica Research Today IOT based Pest Detection Sensors and Benefits of Farming Community Agriculture 778-780

Insects and Rodents have always been a nuisance for farmers. They feed on their efforts and infest on crops to spread various diseases. Controlling and maintaining their population is therefore important for a farmer to ensure crop health. Pesticides and insecticides have played a major role in preventing infestations. However, they pose different environmental and social consequences. Extreme use of pesticides can result in severe water & soil contamination and can also intoxicate plants with harmful chemicals. Additionally, insects and bugs become reluctant against them with continuous exposure that forces farmers to rely on heavier pesticides. Even though other methods like genetic seed manipulation are also being used to make crops more robust against the pest attack, they are quite expensive for practical application.

IOT, IPM, Pest, Sensors NIL 2022-11-14 Popular Article P. Sujatha, B. Sivasankari, S. Sheeba and M. Ilamaran

P. Sujatha*

Dept. of Social Sciences, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Eachangkottai, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu (641 902), India

B. Sivasankari

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

S. Sheeba

Dept. of Soil and Agrl. Chemistry, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

M. Ilamaran

Dept. of Food Science and Nutrition, Community Science College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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517 1730870179 Biotica Research Today Terrace Gardening: Method of Urban Cultivation Agriculture 781-783

The method of cultivation of fruit, vegetables, spices, medicinal and aromatic crops including flower crops at the terrace or roof top area is known as “Terrace gardening”. The peoples living in urban areas have temperature build up than the rural areas due the lack of greenery in their premises or dwelling places. This can be circumvented through terrace gardening. Fruits crops suitable for terrace gardening are Banana, Guava, Acid lime and Papaya. Vegetable crops such as tomato, brinjal, chilli (transplanted vegetables) and bhendi, amaranthus, cucurbitaceous vegetables like - bitter gourd, snake gourd, ridge gourd and bottle gourd (direct sown vegetables) are suited for growing in terrace gardens. Turmeric, Coriander and Fenugreek are the spice crops suited for terrace gardening. Considering the health of human beings, home stead medicinal and aromatic crops can also be grown successfully to cater the daily needs for curative purpose.

Containers, Grow bags, Pots, Terrace gardening NIL 2022-11-15 Popular Article M. Velmurugan, M. Anand, P.R. Kamalkumaran, K. Rajamani and L. Pugalendhi

M. Velmurugan*

Tapioca and Castor Research Station, Yethapur, Tamil Nadu (636 119), India

M. Anand

Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

P.R. Kamalkumaran

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Keezhvelur, Tamil Nadu (611 105), India

K. Rajamani

Horticultural College and Research Institute, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

L. Pugalendhi

Horticultural College and Research Institute, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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518 1730870983 Biotica Research Today Exploring Criterions for Judging Top Ten Important Plant Viruses in India Agriculture 787-789

Plant viruses pose a threat to sustainable agriculture and are responsible for significant financial losses. International trade, climate change, and viruses' capacity for fast evolution are the primary causes of the growing prevalence of novel viral diseases. Losses due to bacterial and fungal pathogens are well documented, but in case of viruses very limited information is available. And if documented it is only based on small comparative trials that don’t give any exact idea about global loss estimates because of variation in losses by a particular virus in a particular crop varies from year to year, region to region and also on the assessment methodologies. In India there is lack of information regarding the potential criteria for judging viruses. The present article explored different criterions for judging top ten important plant viruses in India.

Criterions, Diseases, Plant virus, Significant NIL 2022-11-22 Popular Article Mehulee Sarkar

Mehulee Sarkar

Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

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519 1730896410 Biotica Research Today Impacts of Climate Change on Aquaculture and Potential Adaptive Measures for Sustainable Livelihood Agriculture 801-803

The fisheries and aquaculture sectors have been increasingly recognized for their crucial contribution to global food security, nutrition and livelihood options. Still, the sustainability of the sector is at stake due to the expected effects of climate change that are not only a future but also a present reality. Moreover, few adaptation options have been presented as well as some gaps in existing knowledge that require further investigations. Overall, climate change effects and implications on aquaculture production sustainability are expected to be both negative and positive although, the negative effects compensate the positive ones. In this paper, we review the probable effects of climate change on aquaculture production and potential adaptive measures for sector's sustainability in nutshell.

Aquaculture, Climate Change, Livelihood, Mitigation strategy NIL 2022-12-05 Popular Article Janmejay Parhi, Alok Kumar Jena and Subit Kumar Patel

Janmejay Parhi

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Tripura (799 210), India

Alok Kumar Jena*

Fisheries Department, Govt. of Odisha, Odisha (767 039), India

Subit Kumar Patel

Fisheries Department, Govt. of Odisha, Odisha (767 039), India

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520 1730896700 Biotica Research Today Biofertilizers as a Step towards Organic Agriculture Agriculture 804-807

India ranks second in the world for horticultural crop production. But to meet the demand of a growing population, productivity and quality must be increased. To provide nutritional food security and a sustainable production system, it needs environmentally friendly technology that can enhance productivity. It is particularly damaging to use non-renewable exhaustive petroleum product-based chemicals excessively in horticulture production system because of their long term effects in environment, the soil, and the human health. Inputs that are eco-friendly, economical and made of organic materials, such as botanical pesticides, biofertilizers, FYM, vermicompost, biogas slurry and disease-and-pest resistant types, will protect the soil’s health and high-quality output. Along with PGPRs, the use of other bioinoculants including Azotobacter, Azospirillum and VAM would not only supplement various soil nutrients, but also enhance the quality and yield of crops.

Biofertilizer, FYM, Sustainable production, Vermicompost NIL 2022-12-06 Popular Article Mritunjay Rai, C.N. Ram, G.C. Yadav and Saurabh Singh

Mritunjay Rai*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

C.N. Ram

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

G.C. Yadav

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Saurabh Singh

Dept. of Crop Physiology, College of Agriculture, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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521 1730898302 Biotica Research Today Silver Nanoparticles for Improved Genetic Transformation Efficiency Agriculture 818-820

Important applications of silver nanoparticles are reported in healthcare, agriculture, food packaging, textiles, etc. The unique physico-chemical and biological properties of silver nanoparticles including antimicrobial property which is attributed to their property to alter the membrane permeability indicate their potential for improvement of plant genetic transformation techniques also. Silver nanoparticles of 100 nm can be effectively used for biolistic and Agrobacterium mediated genetic transformation without cytotoxic effect and are more efficient than conventional techniques. A ten-fold increase in the transformation efficiency of Agrobacterium and 37.5 fold decreases in the cost of consumables could be observed with optimised concentrations of 100 nm silver nanoparticles compared to conventional calcium chloride freeze thaw technique of transformation of Agrobacterium tumefaciens and gold microcarrier mediated biolistic transformation of Nicotiana tabacum respectively.

Agrobacterium, Biolistics, Genetic transformation, Silver nanoparticles NIL 2022-12-12 Popular Article Swapna Alex, Amala Benny, Nitasana Rajkumari, K.B. Soni and K.N. Anith

Swapna Alex*

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Amala Benny

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Nitasana Rajkumari

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

K.B. Soni

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

K.N. Anith

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

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522 1730899964 Biotica Research Today Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Insect Pest Management Agriculture 827-829

The use of entomopathogenic microorganisms (EM) as pest control agents, are not only effective against insect pests but also environmentally friendly (lower pesticide residues). Entomopathogens are being developed as environmentally friendly alternatives for use in agricultural crops. They can be used as biological control agents to manage insect pests and increase agro-sustainability. One of the ecologically recognized methods is the biological control of insect pests on agricultural crops. The field of microbial pesticides offers a unique opportunity to conduct prospective pesticide research. Biological control agents (BCAs) are used in various ways depending on the type of pest and the biological properties of the control agent, which have several appealing characteristics, including host specificity, absence of toxic residue, no phytotoxic effects, human safety, and the possibility of self-sustaining pest management, to name a few.

Biological control, Entomopathogens, Fungi, Pest management NIL 2022-12-15 Popular Article Rajadurai Gothandaraman, Anandakumar Selvaraj and Umapathi Muniyappan

Rajadurai Gothandaraman*

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Anandakumar Selvaraj

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Centre for Crop Management, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Umapathi Muniyappan

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Centre for Crop Management, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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523 1730900257 Biotica Research Today Rose of the Desert - Adenium Agriculture 830-833

An ornamental plant plays a vital role in the floricultural industry as environmental aesthetic beautification. Horticulturally, Adenium is prized for its flower and Caudex and it has become increasingly popular among succulent collectors in recent decades. Adenium belongs to Apocynaceae family which includes some 2100 tropical ornamental species of mainly trees, shrubs, and climbers. Adenium plants are native to Africa’s hotter, drier regions, and they have spread as far as East Asia, Arabia as well as to Island of Socotra. Common names include Desert rose, Bangkok Kaachuchi, Sabi Star, Karoo Rose, Japanese Frangipani, Mockazelea and Impala Lilly. Adenium got ‘Royal Horticutural Society’s Award of Garden Merit’.

Adenium arabicum, Caudex, Desert rose, Grafting NIL 2022-12-16 Popular Article Shaik Sumera and Velmurugan M.

Shaik Sumera*

Dept. of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Velmurugan M.

Tapioca and Castor Research Station, Yethapur, Tamil Nadu (636 117), India

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524 1730901139 Biotica Research Today Scent Discriminating Dogs for Early Detection and Surveillance of Phytoplasma Diseases - A New Possibility Agriculture 834-836

Phytoplasmas pose an emerging threat to the global agricultural production with several cases being associated with severe epidemics leading to total yield loss in various crops. Early detection of phytoplasma infection along with a reliable diagnosis and rapid response is essentially in order to slow epidemics and minimize the damage to the crop. Visual observations are largely inadequate for the detection of these mollicutes due to the delayed appearance of visual symptoms. Whereas, molecular assays are not financially and practically viable for large-scale field level implementation. Canines have already proven to be effective for the early detection of several plant pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and fungi. This article explores an innovative approach of using the superior olfaction ability of canines as a tool for early detection and surveillance of phytoplasma infection in crops and the associated opportunities and challenges.

Canine, Detection, Dogs, Phytoplasma NIL 2022-12-17 Popular Article Abhishek Verma, Raj Verma and Savarni Tripathi

Abhishek Verma*

ICAR-IARI, Regional Station, Aundh, Pune, Maharashtra (411 067), India

Raj Verma

ICAR-IARI, Regional Station, Aundh, Pune, Maharashtra (411 067), India

Savarni Tripathi

ICAR-IARI, Regional Station, Aundh, Pune, Maharashtra (411 067), India

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525 1730901373 Biotica Research Today Botanicals: Towards the Eco-Friendly Approach for Pest Management Agriculture 837-839

The use of botanical pesticides is now emerging as one of the prime means to protect crops and their products and the environment from pesticide pollution. Botanicals degrade more rapidly than most chemical pesticides and they are considered relatively eco-friendly and less likely to kill beneficial pests than synthetic pesticides with longer environmental retention. The problems caused by synthetic pesticides and their residues have increased the need for effective biodegradable pesticides with greater selectivity. Alternative strategies have included the search for new types of pesticides which are often effective against a limited number of specific target species, are biodegradable into nontoxic products and are suitable for use in integrated pest management programs. Many plants possess pesticidal properties, only a handful of pest control products obtained from plants (pyrethrum, neem, rotenone) are in use because commercialization of botanicals is hindered by several issues.

Biodegradable, Botanical pesticides, Eco-friendly, Synthetic pesticides NIL 2022-12-18 Popular Article Arun Kumar, Pawan Kumar, Puskar Shukla and Anoop Kumar

Arun Kumar*

Dept. of Entomology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Pawan Kumar

Dept. of Entomology, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh (273 009), India

Puskar Shukla

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Anoop Kumar

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 007), India

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526 1730902182 Biotica Research Today Ethano Veterinary Formulation for Treating Bovine Mastitis Agriculture 840-842

Mastitis is the one the most commonly encountered economic problem in the field by the farmers. Even though many medicines are available for the management of mastitis their sustainability is limited. Hence, to combat this problem herbal treatment is demonstrated in the mastitis affected animals. The herbal treatment for mastitis was demonstrated in fifty mastitis affected cattle in Dharmapuri district. Mastitis animal were selected randomly from three villages in Pennagaram and Dharmapuri block. A total of 50 mastitis affected cattle were selected for application of herbal paste. The components of herbal paste are 200 g Aloe vera (3 leaves), 50 g turmeric powder (handful quantity) and 5 g lime (size of tamarind seed). The ingredients were grounded fine and the colour of the fine grounded mix was light red colour. The prepared herbal paste was applied over the affected udder after for eight times per day cleaning and draining of udder. The treated animal able to recover in four days and the milk yield was normal.

Aloe vera, Cattle, Herbal treatment, Mastitis NIL 2022-12-19 Popular Article R. Thangadurai, K. Sivakumar and M.A. Vennila

R. Thangadurai*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

K. Sivakumar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

M.A. Vennila

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

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527 1730961748 Biotica Research Today Microalgae: A Nutritional Powerhouse Agriculture 846-848

Microalgae are unicellular photosynthetic microorganisms that can be found in both saltwater and freshwater. Microalgal-derived food and nutraceutical products have enormous potential to slow the rate of malnutrition in developing countries. The abundance of proteins and other essential nutrients in microalgae has the potential to create a massive algae-based food industry dedicated to the commercialization of healthy and functional foods. Microalgae have been identified as promising sources of long-term bioactivities, with previous literature indicating a growing interest in algae-based dietary supplements in the form of whole biomass.

Aquaculture, Microalgae, Nutraceutical, Pharmaceuticals NIL 2022-12-21 Popular Article Narendra Kumar Maurya, Absar Alam, Jeetendra Kumar, Durgesh Kumar Verma, Rajesh Jayaswal and Satyaveer

Narendra Kumar Maurya*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 002), India

Absar Alam

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 002), India

Jeetendra Kumar

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 002), India

Durgesh Kumar Verma

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 002), India

Rajesh Jayaswal

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 002), India

Satyaveer

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh (211 002), India

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528 1730962597 Biotica Research Today Alleviation of Hidden Hunger through Rice Biofortification Agriculture 849-852

Rice (Oryza sativa L.), which is mostly consumed by individuals from various areas of Asia, is fed to more than half of the world's population. In rice, the transfer of micronutrients from the soil to the shoot and from the root to the shoot is regulated at several phases, including seed germination. Some of the effective efforts performed by numerous scientists to enhance the amount of micronutrients in rice include the use of phytose, ferritin protein storage by Fe, and increasing the content of genes encoding metal chelators (mostly phytosiderophores) and metal transporters. We are here for the article on rice biofortification to share the advances made in the goal of enriching rice with various micronutrient components such as Fe, Zn, and Mn as well as to lessen the widespread micronutrient insufficiency in humans.

Biofortification, Fortification, Hidden hunger, Rice NIL 2022-12-22 Popular Article Pradip Kumar Saini, Shwetank Shukla, Saurabh Singh, Jitender Bhati and Shambhoo Prasad

Pradip Kumar Saini

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Shwetank Shukla

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Saurabh Singh

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Jitender Bhati

Dept. of Seed Science and Technology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Shambhoo Prasad*

Dept. of Plant Molecular Biology & Genetic Engineering, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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529 1730964386 Biotica Research Today Yeast in Aquaculture Agriculture 857-859

Aquaculture is the fastest growing food production sector. The rising need for fish as a protein source and the recent technological developments has resulted in immense growth of the aquaculture sector. However, occurrence of diseases is the major problem in aquaculture production system. Prophylactic disease management is the favoured method of disease management in aquaculture. Yeasts are naturally derived compounds which could serve as feed and also can improve the heath status of the aquaculture species.

Aquaculture, Disease, Prophylactic, Yeast NIL 2022-12-24 Popular Article G. Ferolin Jessina, J. Jaculine Pereira and M. Petchimuthu

G. Ferolin Jessina*

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

J. Jaculine Pereira

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

M. Petchimuthu

Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

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530 1730964790 Biotica Research Today Artificial Intelligence (AI) Applications in Plant Parasitic Nematode Detection and Identification Agriculture 860-862

Pest prediction techniques help treat various plant pest and diseases. Prediction and downstream prevention require knowledge of pest etiology, which is common in some symptoms and infection, such as those caused by soil-borne organisms can pose a challenge. Fortunately, the advent of machine learning tools has enabled researchers to unravel the intricate interactions between hosts and infections without relying on difficult assumptions. Recently, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in agriculture is of crucial importance. The introduction of technology in agriculture can be approached creatively. Controlling nematode infections in crops during the growth phase is of crucial importance. Early identification, categorization and analysis of nematode infections and potential remedial actions are always beneficial to agricultural progress. The identification and categorization of nematodes in crops, especially fruits, vegetables and floriculture, are critical for proper nematode management.

Artificial intelligence, Identification, Machine learning, Nematode NIL 2022-12-25 Popular Article Prabhu, S. and R. Poorniammal

Prabhu, S.*

Dept. of Plant Nematology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

R. Poorniammal

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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531 1730965140 Biotica Research Today Kapok Tree - A Potential Non-Timber Forest Product Plant Agriculture 863-864

The Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn, often known as the kapok tree, has a majestic appearance and its geographic spread is pantropical. For humans, the species is hugely essential. It is frequently planted in alignment in cities and villages and is utilized for food, lumber and other services, pharmacopeia, and crafts. This plant's alcohol extract contains anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. It is renowned for being a plentiful source of glycosides, flavonoids, and tannins. This plant's various therapeutic properties can be used to cure a wide range of ailments in all of its components. The hand-selected silk cotton from the ripened-dried fruit is further processed and utilized to create stuffing for cushions and beds as well as tennis balls, boxing gloves, and shooting outfits. Its cake serves as cow feed, while its oil is used to make soap. Fruit shells are burned as fuel.

Kapok, NTFP, Pantropical, Pioneer species NIL 2022-12-27 Popular Article Varsha Giri, Vipula Vyas, Tanmaya Kumar Bhoi and Naveen Kumar Bohra

Varsha Giri*

Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (342 005), India

Vipula Vyas

Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (342 005), India

Tanmaya Kumar Bhoi

Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (342 005), India

Naveen Kumar Bohra

Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (342 005), India

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532 1730966812 Biotica Research Today Omicron BF.7 Sub-Variant Triggering Fresh COVID Fears in India Agriculture 869-872

So far, three instances of the Omicron BF.7 strain responsible for the recent rash of Covid infections in China have been found in India. Earlier in October, the first instance of the highly contagious strain with increased transmissibility was discovered in Gujarat. Currently, Omicron BF.7 cases in India are total 3, with 2 occurring in Gujarat and 1 in Odisha. The new Omicron strain is known to spread rapidly and has a shorter incubation time, but so far this hasn't caused much of a concern. Sixty percent of the Chinese population will reportedly be infected within three months. In light of the virus's apparent ease of transmission, might we anticipate a fresh wave of COVID in India as well?

BF.7, COVID, Omicron, Sub-variant NIL 2022-12-29 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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533 1730967511 Biotica Research Today Green Manuring: As a Source of Sustainable Agriculture Production Agriculture 873-876

One of the most significant challenges that farmers face is maintaining healthy soil. The environment is in danger due to the over use of nitrogen (N) fertilizer in agriculture. Due to various industrial facilities and the use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture, the quantities of reactive forms of N (including N2O, NO3, and NH3) have increased to over 120% in the atmosphere. The situation makes it necessary to reconsider the function of biological nitrogen fixation (BNF). The use of high-analysis fertilizers, frequent tillage in intensive agriculture, burning of agricultural waste, and lack of integration of biodegradable solid waste from home and industrial sectors into soil mass have all contributed to a loss in soil organic carbon (SOC). Thus, the agricultural land became less productive and occasionally unusable for commercial farming due to decreasing soil biodiversity, impaired soil health, and increased demand for vital plant nutrients.

Green manure, Organic matter, Soil fertility, Nitrogen fixation NIL 2022-12-30 Popular Article Saurabh Singh, Shraddha Singh, Mritunjay Rai, Pradip Kumar Saini and Shambhoo Prasad

Saurabh Singh*

Dept. of Crop Physiology, College of Agriculture, ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Shraddha Singh

Dept. of Crop Physiology, College of Agriculture, ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Mritunjay Rai

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry, ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Pradip Kumar Saini

Dept. of Crop Physiology, College of Agriculture, ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Shambhoo Prasad

Dept. of Plant Molecular Biology & Genetic Engineering, ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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534 1730968040 Biotica Research Today IMTA - An Evolution from Off Shore Aquaculture Agriculture 877-879

The full potential of the aquaculture industry by intensive systems is not well utilized due to its drawback in the environment and ecosystem. It is necessary to find out the solution which brings out the immense potential of the aquaculture industry to meet the demand of the future. The off shore aquaculture which is 2-3 kms away from the coastline requires less land and freshwater with smaller carbon footprint. It also has an advantage of minimal flow of water which protects the water quality. But the problem is that it has to be robust, independent and affordable. The making of this system is relatively more expensive and heavy materials are used which makes handling and maintenance difficult. To overcome the economic drawbacks, the Integrated Multi Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system is evolved from off shore aquaculture which reduces the overall economy of the system by reduction of amount of feed given, minimizing energy losses and the product diversification which provides higher economic yield.

IMTA, Integrated Aquaculture, Off shore practice, Sustainable practice NIL 2022-12-31 Popular Article S. Harini, Mahadevi and Cheryl Antony

S. Harini*

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Mahadevi

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Cheryl Antony

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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535 1730984257 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Techniques of Optimizing Fertilizer Use Efficiency (FUE) Agriculture 001-002

The fertilizer recommendation based on nutrient supplying power of soils and by specific soil, plant and climatic factors. Fertilizers are considered as efficient when maximum yield is acquired with minimum possible amount of fertilizer application. Fertilizer use efficiency depends on the ability of plant to take up nutrients efficiently from the applied fertilizer in soil, but also depends on internal transport, storage and remobilization of nutrients.

Fertilizer, Fertilizer use efficiency, Nutrient, Techniques NIL 2021-01-04 Popular Article Vikash Singh, Rajendra Patel, Ganesh Malgaya and Arvind Ahirwal

Vikash Singh*

Dept. of Agronomy, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya (RVSKVV), Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Rajendra Patel

Dept. of Agronomy, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya (RVSKVV), Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Ganesh Malgaya

Dept. of Agronomy, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya (RVSKVV), Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (474 002), India

Arvind Ahirwal

Dept. of Agronomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (JNKVV), Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 004), India

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536 1730984815 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana: Economic Revolution for the Indian Fisheries Sector Agriculture 003-006

The Prime Minister of India officially launched Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) on 10th September 2020. It is a scheme for the development of the Indian fisheries sector in a sustainable and responsible manner. The estimated investment of 20,050 crores for the holistic development of the fisheries sector, including fishers' welfare to ensures the food and nutritional security of the country. Department of Fisheries has identified nine strategic priorities under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana. PMMSY is being implemented in all the States and Union Territories for five years period from the Financial Year 2020-21 to 2024-25.

Fisheries, Livelihood, Nutritional security, Sustainable NIL 2022-01-05 Popular Article Suman Takar and Udai Ram Gurjar

Suman Takar

TNJFU- Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Udai Ram Gurjar*

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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537 1730985396 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Impact of Climate Changes on Soil Properties Agriculture 010-013

Climate change is expected to have a vigorous impact on soils and its ecosystems due to increase in temperature and changes in precipitation (amount and frequency), thereby altering the biogeochemical and hydrological cycles. The several phenomena associated with climate change and anthropogenic activity affecting the soils. The increase in atmospheric CO2 concentration, growth rates, water-use efficiency of crops and natural vegetation in so far as other factors do not become limiting. However, scarcity of water may prevent water existence used for irrigation. Increasing damage to the land, or land degradation, will occur in the form of soil erosion, desertification, salinization, or loss of peat soils, further influencing on the capability of soils to support the needs of agriculture.

Climate, Ecosystems, Plant, Soil NIL 2021-01-08 Popular Article Mahendru Kumar Gautam, Alok Mourya, Uday Pratap Singh and Ranjeet Kumar

Mahendru Kumar Gautam*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Alok Mourya

College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Meghalaya (793103), India

Uday Pratap Singh

C.S.A. University of Agriculture & Technology, Nawabganj, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

Ranjeet Kumar

C.S.A. University of Agriculture & Technology, Nawabganj, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 002), India

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538 1730985750 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Nutricereals: A Super Food Agriculture 014-016

Malnutrition and climate change have become burning issues that we are facing today. Global Hunger Index of 2019 puts India at 102 out of 117 countries and 9.3 million children in India are severely malnourished and half of the total women in the age between15-45 are suffering from anemia. These issues are pointing towards the future of ever increasing population of India. Millets can be a solution for these problems to a greater extent as it is a nutrient rich hardy crop. Millets are staple food source that is not only rich in protein, minerals, fibres, phytochemicals and antioxidants but also provide number of health benefits since it has low glycemic index and gluten free. Therefore, formulation and implementation of policies for the popularization and adoption of millets among the farmers on a larger scale will ultimately pave the way for a hunger free, nutrient rich, healthy and resilient world.

Malnutrition, Millet, Nutricereals, Phytochemicals NIL 2021-01-09 Popular Article Mubeena P., Deepthi C., Navya M. V. and Usha C. Thomas

Mubeena P.*

AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Deepthi C.

AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Navya M. V.

AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Usha C. Thomas

AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

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539 1730987372 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Role of Nutraceuticals in Pet Animals Agriculture 026-029

The pet animals are kept in house in security and decorative purpose. The pet animal includes dog, cat, etc., these animals susceptible to many nutritional diseases. The nutraceuticals are combination of nutritional as well as pharmaceutical substance supplemented in feed to fight against nutritional diseases. Nutraceuticals contains wide range of vitamin, lipoic acid, prebiotic and probiotic etc.

Antioxidant, Pet animals, Substance, Vitamin NIL 2021-01-14 Popular Article Anupam Soni, Sharad Mishra, Nishma Singh, Rupal Pathak, Neetu Sonkar, Ankit Kashyap and Subhrajit Das

Anupam Soni*

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Sharad Mishra

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Nishma Singh

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Rupal Pathak

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Neetu Sonkar

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Ankit Kashyap

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Subhrajit Das

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

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540 1730987710 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Role of Botanicals and Essential Oils in Enhancing the Vase Life of Flowers Agriculture 030-032

Vase life of cut flowers is limited by some factors such as senescence, weight loss and decay of microorganisms. Vase life can be doubled by the judicious use of floral preservatives in the vase solutions. Botanicals and essential oils contain more amounts of growth regulators like auxin, cytokinin, gibberellin and also sugars which are very much useful to increase the vase life of flower. Botanicals are eco-friendly and slowdown the ethylene production and essential oils extracted from plants has antimicrobial action thereby reduce spoilage by microbes.

Botanicals, Ecofriendly, Essential Oils, Vaselife NIL 2021-01-15 Popular Article Nivethaa PJ. and Sidhdharth G.

Nivethaa PJ.*

Dept. of Vegetable Sciences, College of Horticulture (University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences), Mudigree, Chickmangalore, Karnataka (577 132), India

Sidhdharth G.

Dept. of Vegetable Sciences, Horticultural College and Research Institute (Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Periyakulam, Kamatchipuram, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

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541 1731046622 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Invisible Pollution Agriculture 033-034

Balloon release is a common event in many ceremonies but when a balloon ascends into the heavens, it doesn't end up on Jupiter. Although a helium balloon can rise to altitudes of five miles (8 kilometers) into Earth's atmosphere, it's got to come back down eventually, and when it does, it wreaks some havoc. It could get tangled up in the flippers of a sea turtle or be eaten by one who mistakes it for a jellyfish. Animals of the land, sea and air are equally susceptible to mistaking deflated balloons for food, or even worse, getting tangled up and strangled by the ribbon attached to it. Also, the world may be running out of helium soon anyway. It causes power loss since the metallic or foil balloons conduct electricity by interacting with power line. This paper presents the harmful effects of balloon release on the environment and also the alternatives for balloon release during the ceremonies.

Balloon release, Electricity loss, Marine threat, Wildlife threat NIL 2021-01-16 Popular Article N. Arumughan

N. Arumughan

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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542 1731046967 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Foam Mat Drying of Fruits: Concept, Opportunities and Limitations Agriculture 035-037

Science of drying has evolved from traditional sun drying to ultra modern drying techniques such as freeze drying/ microwave drying/ infrared drying etc. Each drying method has its own opportunities and practical limitations. Foam mat drying has recently been explored as a method of processing and preservation of fruit powders. It is majorly used for viscous or high sugar matrices such as drying of bael, melon, beetroot, cherry, pineapple etc. which otherwise are difficult to dehydrate using other conventional drying procedures. Foam mat drying technology can be well adopted commercially due to its ease and ability to produce porous reconstituable dried fruit products. Therefore, foam mat drying can be considered as ‘second generation drying technique’ which provides benefits of both the drying methods; traditional and modern.

Application, Drying, Foam, Foaming agent NIL 2021-01-19 Popular Article Thippeswamy B., Alka Joshi and Shruti Sethi

Thippeswamy B.

Division of Food Science & PHT, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Alka Joshi*

Division of Food Science & PHT, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Shruti Sethi

Division of Food Science & PHT, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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543 1731048470 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Performance of Sesamum in Udalguri District of Assam Agriculture 042-044

A demonstration was conducted on scientific cultivation practices of Sesamum on Cluster basis in 4 villages of Udalguri district, Assam, India viz. Jungle Borigaon, Nalkhamara, Habigaon and Majbat during 2020-21. The crop was sown in lines and fertilizers were applied in the form of N: P2O5: K2O @ 30:20:20 kg/ha. Weeding was done manually at 20 DAS. The results revealed an increase in grain yield by 47.5% over the local practices (i.e. 6.05 q/ha for demonstration). A net return of Rs. 23,350.00 /ha was recorded in the demonstration plots, which was found to be higher than the local practices (net return Rs. 14,350.00 /ha). The B:C ratio was also found to be higher in the improved practices (1.93) over the local practices (1.77). Hence, it can be concluded that the use of improved cultivation practices in sesamum not only increases yield but also net return or profit of the farmer.

Cluster basis, Oilseed crop, Scientific cultivation, Sesamum indicum NIL 2021-01-21 Success story Ipsita Ojah, Himadri Rabha, Bhaskar Baruah and Debasish Borah

Ipsita Ojah*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool, Udalguri, Assam (784 514), India

Himadri Rabha

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool, Udalguri, Assam (784 514), India

Bhaskar Baruah

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool, Udalguri, Assam (784 514), India

Debasish Borah

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool, Udalguri, Assam (784 514), India

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544 1731048883 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Importance of Breeding Records and Their Standardization Agriculture 045-048

The breeding records are one of the most important tools in livestock business management. There various types of records are maintained in any types of livestock farming. These records help in known the business is running in lose or profit/ financial status of business. These records are helpful in identification of animals and selection of superior animals (pedigree). It is helpful in vaccination and deworming schedule in animals.

Animals, Records, Selection, Standardization NIL 2021-01-22 Popular Article Subhrajit Das, Asit Jain, Rupal Pathak, Anupam Soni, Ankit Kashyap, Suryakant Sori and Anjula Gahirwar

Subhrajit Das*

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Asit Jain

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Rupal Pathak

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Anupam Soni

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Ankit Kashyap

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Suryakant Sori

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Anjula Gahirwar

College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

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545 1731049422 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Status of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) Cultivation in India - An Overview Agriculture 049-051

Chickpea is one of the major components of Indian diet which accounts for nearly 112 lakh tonnes of production during 2018-19. India stands first in the area and production of chickpea among all the chickpea producing countries of the world. It can be attributed to reasons like favourable environment, high yielding seeds, more acceptances among farmers, huge market. In India states like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan contributes to about more than 50 percent of chickpea production in India. Chickpea accounts for nearly 70 percent of pulse export from India. This paper presents the status of chickpea production from 2009-2019 in India.

Chickpea, Export, National trend, State wise trend NIL 2021-01-25 Popular Article P. Karthick Vikram

P. Karthick Vikram

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamilnadu Agriculture University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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546 1731051569 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Impacts of Climate Change on Agricultural Sector Agriculture 055-057

Climate is the primary determinant of agricultural productivity and climate change is expected to influence crop and livestock production; hydrologic balance; input supply; type, frequency and intensity of pests and diseases; availability and timing of irrigation water application; severity of soil erosion etc. However, nature of these biophysical effects and human responses to them are complex and uncertain. Crop and livestock yields are directly affected by changes in climatic factors like temperature and precipitation and extreme events viz. droughts, floods, and wind storms. Additionally, carbon dioxide is fundamental for plant production; rising concentrations have the potential to enhance productivity of agro-ecosystems. Given the fundamental role of agriculture in human welfare, concerns have been expressed by federal agencies and others regarding the potential effects of climate change on agricultural productivity. Interests in this issue have motivated a substantial body of research on climate change and agriculture over the past decade.

Agricultural, Climate change, Crop, Productivity NIL 2021-01-26 Popular Article Mousumi Malo

Mousumi Malo

Assistant Director of Agriculture, Model Farm, Jayrambati, Bankura, West Bengal (722 161), India

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547 1731051782 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Fisheries Sector of Kerala: Pandemic Scenario Agriculture 058-061

The study focuses on the estimate of the impact of Covid-19 on inland fisheries resources such as reservoirs and lake. As per the current investigation small, medium and large reservoir fisheries has suffered an economic loss of Rs. 36 million, 4.2 million and 0.31 million respectively. Similarly, backwater fishery of Kerala was also affected with a loss of Rs. 35 million species wise catch composition study in Backwaters indicated huge demand for Lacustrine fishes during lockdown period due to restrictions imposed on the fisheries sector of the state. The government initiatives along with PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana have helped in the revival of the inland fisheries sector post lockdown period.

Covid-19, Epidemic, Fishery, Kerala NIL 2021-01-26 Popular Article Thankam Theresa Paul, Vandana Gokul Das, Deepa Sudheesan, Sandhya K. M., Albin Albert C., S. Manoharan and B. K. Das

Thankam Theresa Paul*

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 024), India

Vandana Gokul Das

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 024), India

Deepa Sudheesan

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 024), India

Sandhya K. M.

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Kochi, Kerala (682 029), India

Albin Albert C.

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 024), India

S. Manoharan

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 024), India

B. K. Das

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, West Bengal (700 120), India

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548 1731052289 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Urban Agriculture During and Post Covid-19 Pandemic Agriculture 062-064

The uncalled-for pandemic situation caused due to novel Covid-19 virus had detrimental effects on both lives and economy. There was widespread job retrenchment around the globe. The movement of migrant workers to their native places had crippled the agro-industries in many parts of the country. The complete shutdown leads to travel disparities across the country that fractured the supply chain. Food insecurity became a concern in many parts of the world. Urban agriculture grew at a faster rate to maintain food security during the pandemic. It will be critically important even after pandemic to meet the ever-growing population in urban areas and reduce the burden on rural agriculture. Urban agriculture is of different forms like a kitchen garden, rooftop garden, backyard garden, vertical farming, greenhouse farming, beekeeping, etc. Urban gardening can play an important role to have positive socio-cultural impacts, improve the environment, health benefits and add revenues to the economy.

Covid-19 pandemic, Entrepreneurship, Food security, Urban agriculture NIL 2021-01-26 Popular Article Ankita Mishra and Debasish Pattnaik

Ankita Mishra*

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Debasish Pattnaik

Dept. of Plant Physiology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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549 1731068656 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Marine Bioprospecting – An Approach to Discover Drugs Agriculture 065-067

Large quantities of material are being collected from the bush or the Oceans for screening of novel products which acts as a good drug to cure many severe diseases and also used for the initial stages of the drug discovery process. Marine bioprospecting has significantly increased over the last decades and leads to discover new molecules. This article mainly focus on prospecting marine resources, approaches and techniques, medicinal value of prospected materials from the different type of organisms.

Bioprospecting, Clinical uses, Marine resources, Pharmaceuticals NIL 2021-01-27 Popular Article V. Lakshme Gayathre, M. Kalaiarasan and S. Balasundari

V. Lakshme Gayathre*

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

M. Kalaiarasan

Directorate of Incubation and Vocational Training in Fisheries, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (623 519), India

S. Balasundari

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

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550 1731068915 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Antitranspirant: A Novel Emerging Approach to Combat Drought Stress in Maize (Zea mays L.) Agriculture 068-069

Drought stress occurring more frequently and severely because of the climatic change, and it threatens to food security of the world. Maize crop is intensely affected by biotic and abiotic stresses. Antitranspirants are the compounds that are applied to the leaves for reducing the water losses. Film forming type, growth retardant, reflecting type and stomatal closing type are the four categories of antitranspirants. Antitranspirants can; lessen water stress, enhance chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate and improve the grain yield of maize. In this article we emphasize on the responses of maize to antitranspirants under drought conditions.

Antitranspirants, Crop growth, Drought, Maize NIL 2021-01-27 Popular Article Hardeep Singh, Mandeep Singh and Chandan Jaswal

Hardeep Singh*

Dept. of Agronomy, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Mandeep Singh

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Chandan Jaswal

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

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551 1731070059 Biotica Research Today January (2021) High Intensive, Demand Driven Vegetable Cultivation towards Doubling Farmers’ Income in Tripura Agriculture 072-073

Improving livelihood of small and marginal hill farmers from economically weaker sections, high intensive, demand driven vegetable cultivation towards doubling farmers’ income in Tripura was implanted by ICAR Research Complex for NEH region, Tripura Centre under SCSP Project. Adoption of two most productive double story sustainable vegetable production system namely Sem [lablab bean (Lablab purpureus)] - Spine gourd (Momordica dioica) and Sem (lablab bean) - Ash gourd (Benincasa hispida) vegetable system raised the profit of farmers by Rs. 3-3.5 lakhs. Hence, it is recommended from based the success story that double story sustainable vegetable production may help in doubling income of small and marginal farmers of Tripura.

High value cropping, Multistory cropping, Small and marginal farmers, Vegetable systems NIL 2021-01-28 Success story Gulab Singh Yadav, Anup Das, Subhash Babu, Mandakranta Chakraborty and Ripan Chandra Das

Gulab Singh Yadav*

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, West Tripura, Tripura (799210), India

ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Anup Das

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, West Tripura, Tripura (799210), India

Subhash Babu

ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Mandakranta Chakraborty

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, West Tripura, Tripura (799210), India

Ripan Chandra Das

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, West Tripura, Tripura (799210), India

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552 1731071372 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Fish as Ecological Health Indicators of Freshwater Ecosystems Agriculture 077-080

Aquatic ecosystems, especially freshwater resources, face many anthropogenic stressors such as pollution, habitat destruction, flow alterations etc leading to impairment in ecological health of the systems. Conservationists need ecological indicators showing the level of alterations or impairment for decision making in managing these important resources. Fish are widely used as sentinel species to evaluate ecological health and are excellent indicators of overall health of aquatic systems they inhabit. This article focuses on briefing some reliable and useful approaches in assessing the ecosystem health in which fishes are used as indicator organism. Many of those approaches need to be refined for each geographical area and type of water body for use as effective biological monitoring tool.

Biomonitoring, Ecological Health, Fish, Indicator organism NIL 2021-01-29 Popular Article Sajina A. M., Deepa Sudheesan, Lohith Kumar, K. and Sandhya K. M.

Sajina A. M.*

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

Deepa Sudheesan

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

Lohith Kumar, K.

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

Sandhya K. M.

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Matsyapuri, Kochi, Kerala (682 029), India

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553 1731072097 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Role of Research and Development (R&D) in Indian Agriculture Agriculture 084-087

Indian agriculture has been transformed remarkably over the last few decades in reality. Multiple factors such as growth in household income, expansion in food processing, and increase in agricultural exports has facilitated double digit growth to this section. The green revolution is considered to be a significant technological breakthrough that generated a long lasting influence on agriculture in India. However, when it comes to investments in Research and Development, Infrastructure and Technology implementation, a lot more need to be done. With ever increasing supply side constraints, the role of R&D has become increasingly important with the potential to offer long term solutions for Indian agriculture. Farmers’ access to latest researches can help in overcoming issues like seed, pests and diseases problems; crop sustainability; climate change; irrigation problems; soil erosion etc. Earlier, research institutions, agricultural universities, and public sector corporations were important stakeholders in the R&D ecosystem for sustainable agricultural practices.

Green revolution, Indian agriculture, Research and development, Sustainability NIL 2021-01-30 Popular Article Mousumi Malo

Mousumi Malo

Assistant Director of Agriculture, Model Farm, Jayrambati, Bankura, West Bengal (722 161), India

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554 1731072293 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Aquaculture Species Diversification in Odisha: A Short Description Agriculture 088-091

Odisha is one of the important maritime states of India having tremendous reach for fisheries and aquaculture development. The increasing species diversification in freshwater aquaculture is emphasized in current years for realization of higher yield through effective use of niches of the pond environment. Widening of the consumers' choice through production of varied fish protein, species diversification also helps in conservation of the vulnerable species. The present review has described few species in nutshell that can be undertaken in large scale farming under the umbrella of species diversification in Odisha on the basis of market demands, consumer preference, their potential based on the literature.

Aquaculture, Major carps, Odisha, Species Diversification NIL 2021-01-30 Popular Article Alok Kumar Jena, Ansuman Panda, Manabesh Mahapatra, Pradyut Biswas and Soibam Khogen Singh

Alok Kumar Jena*

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Lembucherra, Agartala, Tripura (799 210), India

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Ansuman Panda

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Manabesh Mahapatra

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Pradyut Biswas

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Lembucherra, Agartala, Tripura (799 210), India

Soibam Khogen Singh

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Lembucherra, Agartala, Tripura (799 210), India

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555 1731072595 Biotica Research Today January (2021) Strategies for Improving Productivity of Rice, Wheat, Maize, Sugarcane and Cotton Agriculture 092-095

The target of doubling farmers’ income in a short period requires identification of sources of income growth and enabling conditions for harnessing their growth potential. Agriculture is the main source of farmers’ income in India; therefore, technological and institutional policy options for making agriculture a remunerative enterprise are suggested. Huge gaps exist between realized and potential yields of most crops that can be bridged to a large extent by enhancing farmers’ access to key inputs, irrigation, markets, and credit and extension services. However, extreme price volatility acts as disincentive to adopt productivity enhancing technologies. Post-harvest management and small scale processing would help the farmers to capture benefits of value addition. Effective coordination between centre and states is important in mainstreaming and channelizing policies and investment to achieve the target of doubling farmers’ income.

Agriculture, Crops, Doubling farmers’ income, Yields NIL 2021-01-31 Popular Article Mousumi Malo

Mousumi Malo

Assistant Director of Agriculture, Model Farm, Jayrambati, Bankura, West Bengal (722 161), India

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556 1731216116 Biotica Research Today Microencapsulation of Fish Oil Agriculture 096-097

Microencapsulation is a procedure wherein a small bead of molecule, for example, strong, fluid or even gas can be ensnared, covered or encircled with a polymeric molecule. Microencapsulation is generally used to limit the oxidation of fish oil. It is for the most part used to epitomize a gel, strong, fluid or gas center by a covering shell. As Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acid, it is prone to oxidation which degrades the nutritional value of the fish oil. To prevent this, the reaction of oxygen withthe oil need to be decreased which can be achieved by microencapsulation of fish oil.

Fish oil, Microencapsulation, Omega-3, Oxidation NIL 2021-02-02 Popular Article Aditi More and B. G. Chudasama

Aditi More

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Junagadh Agricultural University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

B. G. Chudasama*

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Junagadh Agricultural University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

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557 1731216767 Biotica Research Today Microgreens: A Potential Source of Energy Agriculture 098-099

Food system must be revised to provide an adequate amount of nutrition to the unprecedented world population. People of every country of all economic status are facing the problem of malnutrition which is considered an important global challenge. Current efforts to mitigate malnourishment are focused on maximal nutrient uptake; however, priority should be given to establishing dietary guidelines that satisfy human nutritional requirements with a diversity of foods, which can be produced with minimized environmental impact. Therefore, simply up-scaling of current agricultural practices to increase crop yields is not a viable solution for feeding the world’s population. A newly emerging crop that may be a dense source of nutrition, gained popularity as a new culinary trend over the past few years, known as microgreens. Microgreens are the emerging alternative to fortified and genetically modified foods, provides a sufficient amount of nutrition.

Malnutrition, Microgreens, Nutrition, Seedling NIL 2021-02-03 Popular Article Swarajya Laxmi Nayak, Karan Singh Dhami and Dibyabharati Sahu

Swarajya Laxmi Nayak*

Division of Food Science and Postharvest Technology, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Karan Singh Dhami

Division of Food Science and Postharvest Technology, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Dibyabharati Sahu

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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558 1731217332 Biotica Research Today Concepts of Immunity and Recent Immunization Programme against COVID-19 in India Agriculture 103-106

To safely achieve herd immunity against COVID-19, a substantial proportion of a population would need to be vaccinated, lowering the overall amount of virus able to spread in the whole population. India has leveraged its manufacturing capacity to pre-order 600 million doses of potential COVID-19 vaccine and negotiating for another billion doses, says a new global analysis of advance market commitments (AMC) for vaccine candidates against the corona virus. India is planning to start the distribution of COVID-19 vaccine first to the healthcare workers followed by other groups to be added sequentially as there are five COVID-19 vaccines under trials in India such as COVAXIN, Covishield, ZyCoV-D, Sputinik and Biological E’s novel Covid-19 vaccine. Out of these five, COVAXIN and Covishield are approved by DCGI (Drugs Controller General of India) for restricted use in emergency situation.

Vaccine, COVID-19, Immune response, Co-WIN NIL 2021-02-06 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Sudhanya Nath, Lipi Ghosh and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Sudhanya Nath

Dept. of Animal Nutrition, West Bengal University of Animal & Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

Lipi Ghosh

School of Development Studies, TISS, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 088), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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559 1731217791 Biotica Research Today Makhana Cultivation using Monsoon Water: A Success Story Agriculture 107-110

Makhana is an annual aquatic nut belonging to the Nymphaeceae family that can be grown as a rainy season crop in low land, ponds and lakes where stagnant water pools exist. Makhana pop is well known for its edible protein (10.0%) and medicinal ingredients like quercetin, kaempferol flavonoids and presence of distinct amino acids like arginine and histidine. Besides, it contains various macro and micronutrients. Bihar produces 90% of total makhana production in the world. Due to rapid urbanization, the production area is decreasing. Makhana production on monsoon water, which could enhance additional production in semi-wetlands from freshwater ecosystems and encourage farmers for extending their cultivation time and more income. A yield of 1.7-2.0 tones ha−1 was recorded which could render economic net profit of INR 1,30,000.00 to the producer.

Makhana, Profit, Rainy season, Quality NIL 2021-02-08 Success story B. R. Jana

B. R. Jana

ICAR- Research Centre for Makhana, Darabhanga, Bihar (846005), India

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560 1731218096 Biotica Research Today Genetically Modified Food: Their Problems and Promise Agriculture 111-113

Genetically modified organism is a result of modern biotechnology in which foreign gene is introduced to the host organism to get desired trait. Various agronomically important crops are genetically modified to obtain resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, improving nutritional quality, production of pharmaceuticals etc. In this article, authors have covered introduction, products, benefits and risk of transgenic crops.

Biotechnology, Crops, GM Food, Safety NIL 2021-02-12 Popular Article Mandeep Singh, Anuj Choudhary, Antul Kumar, Sittal Thapa and Ashmita

Mandeep Singh*

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Anuj Choudhary

Dept. of Botany, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Antul Kumar

Dept. of Botany, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Sittal Thapa

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Ashmita

School of Agricultural Biotechnology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

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561 1731219180 Biotica Research Today Biopharmaceutics: An Emerging Aptitude in Drug Design & Drug Development Agriculture 116-118

Drugs are not commonly administered as pure chemical drug substances but are formulated into finished dosage forms such as tablets, capsules, ointments, etc. The route of administration of a medication directly affects the drug bioavailability, which determines both the onset and the duration of the pharmacological effect. The various routes of administrations are classified into local route and systemic route. The local route is the easiest mode of drug administration at the site where the specified activity is required. When the systemic assimilation of a drug is needed, medications are basically administered through the enteral route and the parenteral route. The development of new drug delivery systems has facilitated achieving pharmacodynamic effects and overcoming pharmacokinetic disadvantages of conventional formulations. Therapeutic drug monitoring in wide populations has allowed enhancements in designing new dosage regimens in order to enhance the therapeutic viability for distinctive brunches of drugs: antibiotics, antineoplastic, cardiovascular agents etc.

Biopharmaceutics, Drug Product Design, Pharmacodynamics, Pharmacokinetics NIL 2021-02-15 Popular Article Devaroti Bhattacherjee, Israt Jahan Tamanna, Md. Ariful Islam, Md. Miraz Alam, Md. Mahbubol Alam and Imtiaj Hossain Chowdhury

Devaroti Bhattacherjee

Dept. of Pharmacy, Bangladesh University, Dhaka (1207), Bangladesh

Israt Jahan Tamanna

Dept. of Pharmacy, Bangladesh University, Dhaka (1207), Bangladesh

Md. Ariful Islam

Dept. of Pharmacy, Bangladesh University, Dhaka (1207), Bangladesh

Md. Miraz Alam

Dept. of Pharmacy, Bangladesh University, Dhaka (1207), Bangladesh

Md. Mahbubol Alam

Dept. of Pharmacy, Bangladesh University, Dhaka (1207), Bangladesh

Imtiaj Hossain Chowdhury*

Dept. of Pharmacy, Bangladesh University, Dhaka (1207), Bangladesh

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562 1731219697 Biotica Research Today DNA Sequencing and Its Types Agriculture 119-121

The term DNA sequencing encompasses biochemical methods for determining the order of nucleotide bases. Sequencing of nucleic acid provides information about all the genetic information stored in the genome in the form of four nitrogen containing bases- adenine (A), guanine (G), thymine (T) and cytosine (C). For sequencing of nucleic acids various methods are used; (1) The classical methods including Sanger’s chain termination method and Maxam-Gilbert chemical degradation method, (2) Automated sequencers based on Sanger method, (3) Next generation sequencing methods which includes 454 Pyrosequencing, Ion Torrent sequencing, SOLiD sequencing and Illumina sequencing method i.e., most widely used nowadays. The major application of gene sequencing lies in forensic, medical and molecular biology studies but in agriculture also plant genome mapping and sequencing has accelerated the crop improvement program.

DNA Sequencing, Illumina Sequencing, Next-Generation Sequencing, Nucleotides NIL 2021-02-17 Popular Article Juhi Pandey, Ashim Debnath, R. M. Tripathi, Om Prakash Verma and Niharika Yaduvanshi

Juhi Pandey*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Ashim Debnath

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

R. M. Tripathi

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Om Prakash Verma

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Niharika Yaduvanshi

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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563 1731220177 Biotica Research Today Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) - The Nature's Gift to Mankind Agriculture 122-124

Ashwagandha is a prominent herb in Indian Ayurvedic medicine and has become a popular supplement due to its health benefits. Limited evidence suggests that Ashwagandha reduces blood sugar levels through its effects on insulin secretion and sensitivity. Its supplements may help lower cortisol levels in chronically stressed individuals. It may help reduce depression. It has been shown to increase muscle mass, reduce body fat, and increase strength in men. It may help reduce the risk of heart disease by decreasing cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It supplements may improve brain function, memory and the ability to perform tasks. Although Ashwagandha is safe for most people, specific individuals should not use it unless authorized by their healthcare provider.

Anti-arthritic, Anti-stress, Anti-tumour, Ashwagandha NIL 2021-02-24 Popular Article Arijita Mohanty, Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Akash Uditansu Acharya and Kailash Chandra Samal

Arijita Mohanty

College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Akash Uditansu Acharya

College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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564 1731244140 Biotica Research Today Hadda Beetle: A Potential Devastator in Brinjal Agriculture 125-128

Vegetables constitute an essential diet component for balanced nutrition. Brinjal is the principal vegetable crop originated from India, possessing wide range of medicinal properties. In India about 12.68 million MT of brinjal is produced annually and ranks second position in global trade. Lady beetles are well known for their role as predator of aphids, mealy bugs and other insect pests. However, there is one group of lady bird beetles which is feeding on brinjal rather than predator. These are hadda beetles belongs to the genus Epilachna with many species under the genus viz., Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata, E. dodecastigma, E. chrysomelina, E. similis, E. fluvosignata, E. sparsa and E. varivesta. The grubs and adults cause injury to the plant by scraping lower epidermis leaving behind the uneaten veins showing characteristic skeletonized symptom. The damage can be reduced by proper monitoring, adoption of various integrated management strategies.

Brinjal, Hadda beetle, Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata, IPM NIL 2021-03-03 Popular Article M. Chandrasekaran, G. Gokulapriya and R. P. Soundararajan

M. Chandrasekaran

Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

G. Gokulapriya

Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

R. P. Soundararajan*

Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

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565 1731244559 Biotica Research Today Cluster Based Scientific Pig Rearing Model for Tribal Farmers of Meghalaya: A Success Story Agriculture 129-131

Ri-Bhoi - the aspirational district of Meghalaya was chosen for implementation of cluster based scientific pig farming sponsored by Department of Biotechnology for tribal people of the district and being implemented by ICAR-RC NEH, Umiam. Altogether, 169 number of cross bred piglets were distributed to 96 tribal pig farmers located in 8 different villages of the district. The farmers were given training and knowhow to raise the piglets scientifically with emphasis on health, hygiene and raising them as breeder stock. They were supported by veterinary services, artificial insemination, low cost feed formulation, low cost pig housing and were exposed to successful pig farms through educational tours. Altogether, 119 numbers of piglets were born within a span of one year and the farmers were made self-sufficient to carry forward the project further. This model approach of cluster based pig rearing was tried first time in the state which can be a base model for further such programmes.

Cluster, Farming, Meghalaya, Pig NIL 2021-03-02 Success story A. A. P. Milton, Samir Das, Sandeep Ghatak, S. Deori, G. Kadirvel, M. Islam, Bankit Mukhim, K. Puro, Arnab Sen, Meena Das, Yearbok Marwein, Ibanylla Swer, Aniruddha Roy, S. Rajkhowa, Sunil Kumar, Keshab Barman, S. Banik and R. Laha

A. A. P. Milton

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Samir Das*

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Sandeep Ghatak

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

S. Deori

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

G. Kadirvel

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

M. Islam

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

, Bankit Mukhim

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

K. Puro

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Arnab Sen

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Meena Das

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Yearbok Marwein

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Ibanylla Swer

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Aniruddha Roy

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

S. Rajkhowa

ICAR- NRC on Pig, Rani, Guwahati, Assam (781 131), India

Sunil Kumar

ICAR- NRC on Pig, Rani, Guwahati, Assam (781 131), India

Keshab Barman

ICAR- NRC on Pig, Rani, Guwahati, Assam (781 131), India

S. Banik

ICAR- NRC on Pig, Rani, Guwahati, Assam (781 131), India

R. Laha

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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566 1731245896 Biotica Research Today Use of Marker Assisted Selection (MAS) in Crop Improvement Agriculture 139-141

Pyramiding multiple genes with potential characteristics into a single genotype through marker-assisted selection (MAS) can improve the efficiency of generating new crop varieties exhibiting disease resistance, as well as other desirable traits. Although markers can be used at any stage during a typical plant breeding programme, MAS is a great advantage in early generations because plants with undesirable gene combinations can be eliminated. Conventional breeding has got tremendous success towards feeding the world. But future demands, continuous development of new crop varieties to suitable to fight diverse problems in less time future. To address this problem MAS can be supplementary to conventional breeding programme.

Gene pyramiding, Marker assisted backcrossing, Marker assisted selection, Molecular markers NIL 2021-03-05 Popular Article Tarkeshwar, Ravi Prakash Chaudhary, Soni Singh, Govind Mishra and Shiva Nath

Tarkeshwar*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Ravi Prakash Chaudhary

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Soni Singh

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Govind Mishra

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Shiva Nath

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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567 1731246213 Biotica Research Today Biocolourants from Plants: Bio-Functional Additives for Food Applications Agriculture 142-144

Colour gives elegance to food item which attracts the consumer and thus increases the market value of the product. Because of several ill effects of artificial dyes such as hyperactivity in kids and kidney malfunctions, now a days, plant originated natural colourants are gaining popularity. The growing interest of consumers in the aesthetic, functional and safety aspects of food has increased the demand for natural pigments to be used as an alternative of synthetic colourants or additives in food products. With colour, antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of several biopigments, enhancing bio-functional status of foods and thus can be established as bio-functional additives for food applications. However, scanty work on standardized extraction protocols, lower yield percentage, higher initial investment, stability issue, pH dependency are the major constraints to establish biocolourants as an alternative of their artificial commercial counterparts.

Biocolourant, Bio-functional additive, Extraction, Food application NIL 2021-03-06 Popular Article Thippeswamy B., Mahesh, Ramangouda and Alka Joshi

Thippeswamy B.

Division of Food Science & PHT, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Mahesh

Kittur Rani Chenamma College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, Belagavi, Karnataka (591 218), India

Ramangouda

College of Horticulture, Arabhavi, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 065), India

Alka Joshi*

Division of Food Science & PHT, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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568 1731247261 Biotica Research Today Carbon Footprint: An Assessment Approach for the Environmental Impacts of Seafood Production Agriculture 149-150

The seafood industry became progressively interconnected at an international scale, as it is most traded globally. It is now common practice to travel farthest extent of oceans for capturing and the transporting of fishes to market. Therefore refrigeration of seafood products is needed at all stages that substantially increase the energy expenditure. As a result of these factors, carbon footprints of seafood products are necessary to integrate into assessments of their seafood sustainability. Carbon footprint is described as the sum of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions occurred from various stage of a product’s life cycle. This is expressed in terms of CO2 equivalents or Global warming potential (GWP). Primarily four stages of the life cycle of various food products were important. Those include production, processing, transportation and preparation of a product. There are also different advantages and disadvantages of incorporating carbon footprint in seafood industry.

Carbon footprint, Greenhouse gas, Global warming potential, Life Cycle Assessments NIL 2021-03-12 Popular Article Vignaesh Dhanabalan, Vinothkumar L., Manivannan M. and Martin Xavier K. A.

Vignaesh Dhanabalan*

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Vinothkumar L.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Manivannan M.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Martin Xavier K. A.

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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569 1731248085 Biotica Research Today Bacteriocins Based Strategies for Food Bio-Preservation Agriculture 151-152

Maintaining of food safety and its quality is the major step to improve health of consumers. Consumption of bad quality foods, more synthetic additives led to various health problems like allergies, nausea, cancer, neural problems and even affects mental health of consumers and hence as an eco-friendly step, bacteriocins based strategies for food bio-preservation is gaining importance. These are possible by using lactic acid bacterial strains or by their metabolic antibacterial products like bacteriocins. These produced bacteriocins are commercially used in food industry as bio-preservatives.

Bactriosins, Bio-preservation, Food, Lactic acid bacteria NIL 2021-03-15 Popular Article Pooja B. K. and T. S. Hanumesh Gowda

Pooja B. K.*

Division of Food Science and Postharvest Technology, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

T. S. Hanumesh Gowda

Division of Food Science and Postharvest Technology, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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570 1731248332 Biotica Research Today Collection of Waste Water Sample and Preservation Techniques Agriculture 153-156

The aim of sampling is to collect a representative sample. Representative sample means a sample in which relative proportions or concentration of all pertinent components will be the same as in the material being sampled. The sample volume shall be optimal small enough that it can be transported and large enough for analytical purposes. Because of the increasing importance on verifying the accuracy and representatives of data, greater emphasis is placed on proper sample collection, tracking and preservation techniques.

Preservative techniques, Sampling methods, Wastewater sample collection NIL 2021-03-16 Popular Article V. Sumitha Bharathi and S. Suganya

V. Sumitha Bharathi*

Dept. of Environmental Science, S. Thangapazham Agriculture College, Affiliated to Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vasudevanallur, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

S. Suganya

Dept. of Soil Science, S. Thangapazham Agriculture College, Affiliated to Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vasudevanallur, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

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571 1731248740 Biotica Research Today Mass Production of Corcyra cephalonica Agriculture 132-134

Among the various egg parasitoids that are known to exert considerable pressure on populations of insect pests, Trichogramma species are the most widely exploited and used for pest management across the world. There are 230 recorded species and the highest numbers of species have been described from the USA, India, Brazil, China, and Russia. Some of the important species that have been recorded from several insect eggs include Trichogramma minutum, Trichogramma evanescens, Trichogramma chilonis, Trichogramma pretiosum, and Trichogramma dendrolimi. At least four species have been recorded from over 50 host plant species: T. chilonis and T. pretiosum from 70 host plants each, T. minutum from 53 plants, and Trichogramma deion from 51 plants. Thus these are species that have been the most exploited for biological and integrated control of crop pests.

Corcyra, Trichogramma chilonis, Trichogramma evanescens, Trichogramma japonica NIL 2021-03-03 Popular Article Devi, M.

Devi, M.

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, MIT College of Agriculture and Technology, Musiri, Mangalam, Tamil Nadu (621 211), India

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572 1731381571 Biotica Research Today Mechanism of Generating MAGIC Population and Its Utility for Crop Improvement Agriculture 157-160

The identification of gene-trait associations for complex (multi-genic) traits needs a mapping population. Mainly two methods viz., biparental crosses and association mapping or linkage disequilibrium mapping, have been used for a long time in the identification of gene-trait associations. The major disadvantage of a biparental population are narrow genetic base, reduction of genetic heterogeneity and only two allelic variations can be analysed in these populations. Association mapping requires large samples and is predominantly influenced by unknown population structure. Recently, the QTL mapping using multi-parent populations has become very popular. The use of MAGIC populations for QTL analysis can fill the gap between biparental mapping and association mapping using natural or breeding populations. MAGIC provides more abundant genetic diversity than a biparental population and higher allele balanced frequency than the panels consisting of diverse accessions in AM and increased mapping resolution by taking the advantages of both historical and synthetic recombination.

Advanced intercross line, Biparental linkage analysis, Linkage disequilibrium mapping, MAGIC population NIL 2021-03-17 Popular Article Tarkeshwar, O. P. Verma, Shiva Nath, Amit Kumar Chaudhary and Pradip Kumar Saini

Tarkeshwar*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

O. P. Verma

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Shiva Nath

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Amit Kumar Chaudhary

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Pradip Kumar Saini

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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573 1731382402 Biotica Research Today Food Derived Peptides – Role in Human Health Agriculture 165-168

Food proteins have long been recognized for their nutritional and functional properties. On the other hand, the functional properties of proteins relate to their contribution to the physiochemical and sensory properties of foods. Nowadays, a considerable amount of research has also focused on bioactive peptides which are present in foods, and researchers are trying to utilize such peptides as functional food ingredients aimed at health maintenance. Several bioactive peptides such as antioxidant, antihypertensive, antiproliferative, antimicrobial, neuroactive, hormonal and mineral binding were isolated from the fishes and shellfishes. The process flow of bioactive peptides includes purification and filtration methods and the peptide sequence was identified. The commercial application were also reported and discussed by many researches. Although the efficacies of these peptides were wide range, the safety and conditions of usage are yet to be proven.

ACE inhibitory peptides, Bioactive properties, Peptides, Protein hydrolysates NIL 2021-03-18 Popular Article Vinoth Kumar L., Manivannan M. and Vignaesh D.

Vinoth Kumar L.*

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Manivannan M.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Vignaesh D.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

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574 1731382695 Biotica Research Today Importance of Soil Sampling and Its Techniques Agriculture 169-172

Successful farm management requires the regular addition of nutrients (either as fertilizers or as organics) to maintain crop yields and quality. How much fertilizer do we apply and what kind of fertilizer is needed to give a balanced nutrition is an important queries ahead us. Soil and plant testing are the usual means to diagnose nutrient deficiency and recognizing soil with physical and chemical problems. Recommendations on fertilizer application rates are often given as part of the test. These recommendations are usually based on numerous fertilizer field trials that have been conducted over the years.

Fertilizer, Soil, Sample, Techniques NIL 2021-03-20 Popular Article S. Suganya, V. Sumitha Bharathi and R. Susan Poonguzhali

S. Suganya*

Dept. of Soil Science, S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Affiliated to Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vasudevanallur, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

V. Sumitha Bharathi

Dept. of Environmental Science, S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Affiliated to Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vasudevanallur, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

R. Susan Poonguzhali

Dept. of Agriculture, School of Agriculture and Biosciences (SABS), Karunya Institute of Technology and Science, Deemed to be University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 114), India

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575 1731383066 Biotica Research Today Use of Some Important ICT Tools in Renovating Agriculture Agriculture 173-175

Agriculture is the backbone of India. Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in agriculture is an emerging fields focusing on the enhancement of agriculture and rural development. It includes applications of innovative processes to use ICT in rural areas. The improvement in ICT can be utilised for providing accurate, timely, pertinent information and services to the farmers, thereby facilitating an environment for more lucrative agriculture.

eNAM, ICT, Renovating agriculture, Rural development NIL 2021-03-22 Popular Article Girijesh Yadav, Tarkeshwar, Yogendra Yadav, Abhinav Singh, Amit Kumar and Upendra Maurya

Girijesh Yadav*

Dept. of Agricultural Extension and Communication, SVPUAT, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 110), India

Tarkeshwar

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Yogendra Yadav

Dept. of Agriculture, Government of U.P., Deoria, Uttar Pradesh (274 509), India

Abhinav Singh

Dept. of Agricultural Extension Education, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Amit Kumar

Dept. of Horticulture, SVPUAT, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 110), India

Upendra Maurya

Dept. of Horticulture, SVPUAT, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 110), India

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576 1731383542 Biotica Research Today Reservoir Fisheries in Kerala - An Unmined Resource Agriculture 176-180

Reservoirs in Kerala with a combined area of 29,635 ha were primarily built for irrigation, power generation and water supply. The fishery potential of the reservoirs have somewhat remained under-utilized to an extent due to the legal pluralism associated with it. So far, only few of the reservoirs are regularly stocked and managed, based on the Culture-based Fishery strategy. However the use of enclosed culture practices such as cage and pen culture as well as making use of the three prong strategy can be made use to realize the unmined potential of Kerala reservoirs.

Fisheries, Kerala, Legal Pluralism, Reservoirs NIL 2021-03-23 Popular Article Albin Albert C., Thankam Theresa Paul, Vandana Gokul Das, S. Manoharan, Deepa Sudheesan, Mohammed Meharoof and B. K. Das

Albin Albert C.

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Research Centre, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

Thankam Theresa Paul*

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Research Centre, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

Vandana Gokul Das

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Research Centre, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

S. Manoharan

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Research Centre, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

Deepa Sudheesan

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Research Centre, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

Mohammed Meharoof

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400061), India

B. K. Das

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

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577 1731384705 Biotica Research Today Impact of Green Tea on Human Health Agriculture 184-186

Green tea is the most consumed beverage in the world because of its health benefits and soothing effect on human body. It contains polyphenolic compounds which include flavanols, flavandiols and phenolic acids. Green tea is best studied for decades because of its health benefits. It is increasingly recognized that it helps to reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes and obesity, depression, hypertension and increase bone mineral density, protects against solar UV radiation etc.

Antioxidant, Catechin, Green tea, Health benefits NIL 2021-03-24 Popular Article Ayusi Satapathy, Ansuman Satapathy, Subrat Kumar Mahapatra and Ajay Kumar Prusty

Ayusi Satapathy

Dept. of Food and Nutrition, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Ansuman Satapathy

Dept. of Agril Economics, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Subrat Kumar Mahapatra*

School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Odisha (765 022), India

Ajay Kumar Prusty

Dept. of Extension Education, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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578 1731385070 Biotica Research Today Genetically Modified Foods: Serenity & Concerns Agriculture 187-189

The involvement of genetically modified food stuffs among the non-genetically modified food items have put people feel uneasy about this. The controversy of genetic engineering is for crops. Humans worry about the expansion of the engineering genes into the habitat because they think that as the new gene is inserted into it, may cause some allergy. Whereas genetically modified foods have the possibilities to solve numerous of the problems. Particular gene is shifted in the plants to increase their agronomy. GM crops are resistance to abiotic stresses like herbicides, also they are engineered to give rise to resistant to insects, viruses etc. Genetically modified plants were put to the test to be eaten in multiple organizations and after so many studies the science got involved. So, here I am informing that consuming genetically engineered crops or foods is no more risky. It is as friendly as the non-genetically engineered foods.

Crops, Genetics, GMO, Transgenic NIL 2021-03-25 Popular Article Rituparna Parida, Rijhum Mahapatra and Debanjana Saha

Rituparna Parida*

Dept. of Biotechnology Engineering, Centurion University of Technology & Management, Ramchandrapur, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 050), India

Rijhum Mahapatra

Dept. of Biotechnology Engineering, Centurion University of Technology & Management, Ramchandrapur, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 050), India

Debanjana Saha

Dept. of Biotechnology Engineering, Centurion University of Technology & Management, Ramchandrapur, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 050), India

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579 1731385439 Biotica Research Today Effect of Probiotic Supplements on Human Health Agriculture 190-191

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for our health, especially our digestive system. It helps in lowering the gut pH, produces β-galactosidases enzyme which digest lactose and stimulate IgA production. It produces short-chain fatty acid and vitamins especially vitamin-B like folate, biotin, vitamin B12 and vitamin-K. It has anti-hypertension, anti-diabetic effect. The presence of probiotics in our body leads to reduce the risk of cancer. Probiotics are also beneficial for oral health.

Bacteria, Health benefits, Microorganism, Probiotics NIL 2021-03-25 Popular Article Ayusi Satapathy, Ansuman Satapathy, Subrat Kumar Mahapatra and Ajay Kumar Prusty

Ayusi Satapathy

Dept. of Food and Nutrition, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Ansuman Satapathy

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Subrat Kumar Mahapatra*

School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Odisha (765 022), India

Ajay Kumar Prusty

Dept. of Extension Education, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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580 1731385893 Biotica Research Today Major Diseases of Chickpea and Its Control Measures Agriculture 192-194

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the world’s most important cool season food crops mostly grown in dry lands. The crop suffers from serious diseases that affect it in all growth stages. The pathogens that affect chickpea include fungi, bacteria, viruses, nematodes and mycoplasma, which results in severe economic losses globally. Among these, fungi are the largest and perhaps most important group affecting roots, stems, leaves, flowers and pods of chickpea. These diseases viz., ascochyta blight, fusarium wilt, dry root rot, botrytis gray mold can causes grain yield and quality losses up to 100% so these diseases are important for manage.

Bacteria, Fungi, Nematode, Virus NIL 2021-03-27 Popular Article Vinay Kumar Kardam and Dashrath Prasad

Vinay Kumar Kardam*

Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner, Rajasthan (334 006), India

Dashrath Prasad

Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner, Rajasthan (334 006), India

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581 1731386481 Biotica Research Today Eco-Friendly Management of Fruit Fly in Bittergourd in Tripura – A Success Story Agriculture 195-196

The melon fruit fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett) (Diptera: Tephritidae) is distributed widely in the country and it has been reported to damage 81 host plants and is a major pest of cucurbitaceous vegetables, particularly the bitter gourd (Momordica charantia), muskmelon (Cucumis melo), snap melon (C. melo var. momordica), and snake gourd (Trichosanthes anguina). The extent of losses varies between 30 to 100%, depending on the cucurbit species and the season. Its abundance increases when the temperatures fall below 32 °C, and the relative humidity ranges between 60 to 70%. It prefers to infest young, green, soft-skinned fruits. Keeping in view the importance of the pest and crop, KVK-Khowai has demonstrated and assessed a technology with pheromone traps to keep the population below economic threshold level and found effective to minimize pesticides use, improve the quality of crop and to get good yield.

Bactrocera, Bittergourd, Melon fly, Pest Management NIL 2021-03-28 Success story Ardhendu Chakraborty, Mukesh Sehgal, Subhash Chander, Manoj Singh Sachan, Subhra Shil, Dipankar Dey and Meenakshi Malik

Ardhendu Chakraborty*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khowai, Tripura (799 207), India

Mukesh Sehgal

ICAR- National Centre for Integrated Pest Management (NCIPM), New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Subhash Chander

ICAR- National Centre for Integrated Pest Management (NCIPM), New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Manoj Singh Sachan

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khowai, Tripura (799 207), India

Subhra Shil

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khowai, Tripura (799 207), India

Dipankar Dey

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khowai, Tripura (799 207), India

Meenakshi Malik

ICAR- National Centre for Integrated Pest Management (NCIPM), New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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582 1731386979 Biotica Research Today Methylobacterium: A Foliar Bioinoculant for Barnyard Millet Agriculture 197-199

India is the biggest producer of barnyard millet, both in terms of area (0.146 m/ha) and production (0.147 mt) with average productivity of 1034 kg/ha during the last 3 years. Barnyard millet is primarily cultivated for human consumption, though it is also used as a livestock feed. Among many cultivated and wild species of barnyard millet, two of the most popular species are Echinochloa frumentacea (Indian barnyard millet) and Echinochloa esculenta (Japanese barnyard millet). Barnyard millet is a short duration crop that can grow in adverse environmental conditions with almost no input and can withstand various biotic and abiotic stresses. Methylobacterium popularly called as PPFM (pink pigmented facultative methylotroph) found to colonize the plant surface ubiquitously. The foliar application of PPFMS and seed imbibitions improves the germination percentage, plant growth and yield characters under dryland conditions.

Biofertilizer, Methylobacterium, Millets, Plant Growth Promotion NIL 2021-03-29 Popular Article R. Poorniammal, S. Prabhu and J. Kannan

R. Poorniammal*

Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Kamatchipuram, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

S. Prabhu

Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Kamatchipuram, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

J. Kannan

Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Kamatchipuram, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

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583 1731387270 Biotica Research Today Integrated Pest Management of Red Hairy Caterpillar in Groundnut Agriculture 200-201

Groundnut is a key legume food crop in India commonly called as peanut, monkey nuts, goober peas and earthnuts. The production of groundnut was decreased by many insect pests. Red hairy caterpillar is a serious and devastating pest of rainfed groundnut crop. This pest can be well efficiently managed by several integrated pest management strategy including, cultural, physical, mechanical, bio-control agents, bio-pesticides and chemical methods.

Groundnut, Integrated Pest Management, IPM Practices, Red hairy caterpillar NIL 2021-03-30 Popular Article I. Rabeena, A. Subash Chandra Bose and T. Sathyan

I. Rabeena*

Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

A. Subash Chandra Bose

S. Thangapazham Agriculture College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

T. Sathyan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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584 1731387584 Biotica Research Today Organic Farming: An Importance and Benefits for Sustainable Agriculture in Rural Livelihoods Agriculture 202-205

Organic farming is a production management system excluding of all synthetic off farm inputs but rely upon on farm agronomic, biological and mechanical methods like crop rotations, crop residues, animal manures, compost and vermicompost, off-farm organic waste, mineral grade rock additives and biological system of nutrient mobilization and plant protection, etc. which promotes and enhances biodiversity, biological cycles and agro-ecosystem health. Organic farming was practiced in India since thousands of years. The great Indian civilization thrived on organic farming and was one of the most prosperous countries in the world, till the British role it. The role of organic farming in India rural economy can be leveraged to mitigate the ever increasing problem of food security of India.

Importance, Organic farming, Rural livelihoods, Sustainable NIL 2021-03-31 Popular Article Lord Litan Debbarma and Rahul Ghosh

Lord Litan Debbarma*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra – Khowai, Divyodaya, Chebri, Khowai, Tripura (799 207), India

Rahul Ghosh

ATMA (SMAE), Tulashikhar Agri Sub-division, Champahour, Khowai, Tripura (799 201), India

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585 1731389506 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Production and Identification of Bioactive Peptides from Fish Sources Agriculture 206-208

The productions of peptides from fishes and shell fishes using different enzymes such as pepsin, trypsin, chymotrypsin, alcalase and papain were reported by several researches. The process flow includes purification, isolation and sequencing. Although many studies were carried out, milk peptides were commercially developed. Nano filtration and ultra-filtration techniques are now employed industrially to produce ingredients which contain specific bioactive peptides based on casein or whey protein hydrolysates. Currently marketed products contain peptides with anti-cariogenic, antihypertensive, mineral binding, stress relieving and satiety inducing properties.

ACE inhibitory peptides, Bioactive peptides, Identification of peptides, Protein hydrolysates NIL 2021-04-05 Popular Article Vinoth Kumar L., Manivannan M. and Vignaesh D.

Vinoth Kumar L.*

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Manivannan M.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Vignaesh D.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

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586 1731389812 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Integrated Farming System for “Atmanirbhar Bharat” Agriculture 209-211

Integrated farming system is a holistic approach or integrated set or scientific combinations of many complementary and supplementary enterprises leading to maximize the crop productivity and enhance net farm income by optimal sustained use of natural resources and effective use of available by-products. In post COVID era “Atmanirbhar Bharat”, which translates to “self-reliant India” or “self-sufficient India”, is a term used by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Sri Narendra Modi in relation to the economic development of our country. During COVID and after COVID our agricultural sector had suffered drastically and recorded 11 years low of 3.1% in Q4 FY20. The Green revolution technologies are often associated with environmental harm. Such damage is caused by the excessive use of “Mineral Fertilizer & Chemical Pesticide”. “Integrated Farming System” describe as a set of agricultural activities, while preserving land productivity, environmental quality, and maintaining biological diversity and ecological Stability.

Chemical Fertilizer, COVID 19, Holistic, Mineral Fertilizer NIL 2024-04-07 Success story Joy Kumar Dey and Shatabhisa Sarkar

Joy Kumar Dey*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sepahijala, CAU (I), Latiacherra, Tripura (799 102), India

Shatabhisa Sarkar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sepahijala, CAU (I), Latiacherra, Tripura (799 102), India

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587 1731415944 Biotica Research Today April (2021) New Emerging Mechanical Methods in Propagation of Fruit Crops Agriculture 212-215

Mechanical methods in propagation are the methods or techniques which improve the physiological and biological parameters of the fruits. Ringing and girdling break the downward translocation of hormones, carbohydrates, and other possible root promoting substances which help in shoot initiation. The techniques like cincturing are also used for induction of flowers. The tree is scored at the start of flower initiation, basipetal transport of auxin will be disrupted, which will led to an increase in root-derived cytokinin. This root- derived cytokinin should stimulate cell division in the developing reproduction bud, thereby raising the metabolic activity of the bud. Notching is also a mechanical technique which is done to increase the growth of lateral shoots, but to be effective it had to be done at bud break or soon thereafter.

Ringing, Girdling, Cincturing, Notching NIL 2021-04-08 Popular Article Amardeep Singh and Trina Adhikary

Amardeep Singh*

Dept. of Agriculture, Khalsa College, Amritsar, Punjab (143 002), India

Trina Adhikary

Dept. of Agriculture, Khalsa College, Amritsar, Punjab (143 002), India

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588 1731416326 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Fish Silage: A Functional Waste By-product Agriculture 216-219

By-products from fish processing sectors are underutilized or discarded directly into the environment, creating detrimental environmental pollution. However, these bio-wastes have huge potential to be used as other applications. Silage from fish is a liquid type product produced from the whole fish or unconsumed parts of it, to which acids, enzymes or lactic-acid-producing bacteria are added, with the liquefaction of the mass provoked by the action of enzymes from the fish. They are usually produced from dead or spoiled fish species or their wastes and by-products which can be a safer environment friendly technology to solve the waste disposal issues in the fishing sectors. Silages are mainly made by chemical and biological processes that need few types of equipment during processing. Further, high nutritional viability in silages makes their applicability as cost effective animal feeds as well as plant fertilizers.

Biological Silage, By-product, Chemical Silage, Fish meal NIL 2021-04-09 Popular Article Kasturi Chattopadhyay and K. A. Martin Xavier

Kasturi Chattopadhyay*

Dept. of Post-Harvest Technology, Fishery Resource Harvest and Postharvest Management Division, ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

K. A. Martin Xavier

Dept. of Post-Harvest Technology, Fishery Resource Harvest and Postharvest Management Division, ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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589 1731416609 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Floriculture based Integrated Farming System for Doubling Farmers Income Agriculture 220-222

Integrated farming system is a holistic approach or integrated set or scientific combinations of many complementary and supplementary enterprises leading to maximize the crop productivity and enhance net farm income by optimal sustained use of natural resources and effective use of available by-products. The scientific combinations or integration is made in such a way that product of one enterprise should be the input of other enterprise with high degree of complimentary effects on each other. Adoption of integrated farming system leads to replacement of off farm inputs, sustainable production of high quality food and stability in farm income through multiple enterprises that aim at maximum utilization of available natural resources to meet the family needs and full fill nutrition requirement too. It aims at generating a threshold level of farm income required for the farm family to maintain sustained interest in farming.

Complementary, Holistic approach, Nutrition, Sustain interest NIL 2021-04-10 Success story Joy Kumar Dey and Shatabhisa Sarkar

Joy Kumar Dey*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sepahijala, CAU (I), Latiacherra, Tripura (799 102), India

Shatabhisa Sarkar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sepahijala, CAU (I), Latiacherra, Tripura (799 102), India

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590 1731416970 Biotica Research Today April (2021) DNA Barcoding Agriculture 223-224

DNA Barcoding is a system for species identification focused on the use of a short standardized genetic region acting as a barcode in a similar way that universal product code are used by the supermarket scanners to distinguish commercial products. DNA barcoding is increasingly used to obtain taxonomic information about an unidentified organism. This tool has been developed for the identification of eukaryotes including plant and animals. The Standard region of mitochondrial DNA, Cytochrome C, Oxidase subunit 1 (COI) sequence is effective for identification of Fish and was used in the study.

Barcoding, Genetic region, Species identification, Supermarket scanner NIL 2021-04-11 Popular Article Gaurav Singh, Vinod Singh, Ashim Debnath, Krishna Pratap Singh, Sudhanshu Singh and Aman Singh

Gaurav Singh*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Vinod Singh

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Ashim Debnath

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Krishna Pratap Singh

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Sudhanshu Singh

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Aman Singh

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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591 1731418167 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Consequence of 2021 Budgeting on Agricultural Sector Agriculture 228-230

The main aim of this article is to explain the impact of budget allocation in enhancing and restructuring the research and development of agricultural sector. The article is analyzed the budget allocations to agricultural, rural development sectors, food subsidy and fertilizer subsidies and also examined the reforms in these sectors and their likely impacts on the poor and vulnerable sections of the society in rural India. The budgetary allocation to agriculture and rural development was increased by 10 to 12% in Financial Year (FY) 2017-18 compared to 2016-17. There was more emphasis on irrigation under Prime Minister Sinchayi Yojana, market reforms to expand the electronic national agricultural markets, rural affordable housing and Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee (MGNREGA). The results clearly evaluate that there is a significant impact and relationship among the high budget allocation and agricultural research and development department.

Agriculture, Budget, MGNREGA, Subsidy NIL 2021-04-12 Popular Article Smaranika Mohanty and Rakesh Kumar Pattnaik

Smaranika Mohanty*

Dept. of Extension Education, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Rakesh Kumar Pattnaik

Dept. of Fruit Science and Horticulture Technology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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592 1731418568 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Towards Effective Design and Delivery: An Online Device for the Mango Growers of the Region Agriculture 231-235

Mango (Mangifera indica Linn) being the most important fruit of India also known as “King of fruits” is cultivated in the largest area i.e. 2217 thousand ha and the production is around 18506 million tons and the total export of mangoes from India is 42998.31 tons, valuing to Rs. 30,253.65 lakhs as recorded in the reports during 2014-15. As being the one of the most important agri-horticultural crop, there is need of web based information system so that it can serve as an advisory for the farmers as and when required. The online platform is developed for Mango for the state Uttar Pradesh to smoothen the exchange of information among different research workers and farmers in the study area. Such type of platforms can further increase the production and productivity of the crop by managing the insect-pests and wider spread of Integrated Pest Management practices.

Mango, Pest Management, DSS, Databases NIL 2021-04-13 General Articles Meenakshi Malik, Mukesh Sehgal, R. V. Singh, Subhash Chander and Ardhendu Chakraborty

Meenakshi Malik*

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Mukesh Sehgal

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

R. V. Singh

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Subhash Chander

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Ardhendu Chakraborty

Krishi Vigyan Kendra-Khowai, Divyodaya, Chebri, Khowai, Tripura (799 207), India

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593 1731419060 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Major Parasitic Weeds – An Overview Agriculture 236-239

Parasitic plants rely on neighbouring host plants to complete their life cycle, forming vascular connections through which they withdraw needed nutritive resources. The control of parasitic weeds is challenging because there are few sources of crop resistance and it is difficult to apply controlling methods selective enough to kill the weeds without damaging the crop to which they are physically and biochemically attached. The management of parasitic weeds is also hindered by their high fecundity, dispersal efficiency, persistent seed bank, and rapid responses to changes in agricultural practices, which allow them to adapt to new hosts and manifest increased aggressiveness against new resistant cultivars. This paper presents biology and management of four important families of parasitic weeds.

Cuscutta, Loranthus, Orobanche, Striga NIL 2021-04-14 Popular Article P. Karthick Vikram

P. Karthick Vikram

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agriculture University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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594 1731420033 Biotica Research Today April (2021) An Overview of Traditional Rice Beer of Tripura Agriculture 243-245

The diversified traditional alcoholic beverages prepared by indigenous communities of Tripura which is intimately associated with their ecological, socio-cultural, spiritual life and health. The present article is focused on the preparation method and nutritional aspects of rice beer, popularly known as Langi or Gora. Different plant species are used by different tribes for preparation of starter cultures using soaked rice flour. Markhamia stipulata (Wall.) Seem. is common to all communities for starter cake preparation. The use of Ananus comosus Mill. is common among Debbarma and Jamatia tribes, whereas that of Artocarpus heterophullus Lam. is common among Molsom and Koloi tribes. The plants used in starter culture preparation are having nutritional and medicinal benefits for the metabolic stability in humans, which make the process more prospective for commercialization if a standard can be determined for maintaining quality and associated risk.

Nutritional and Medicinal benefits, Plant Species, Rice beer, Starter culture NIL 2021-04-18 Popular Article Khumbarti Debbarma, B. Narayanaswamy and Ashim Debnath

Khumbarti Debbarma

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Gandhi Krishi Vigyana Kendra, Bellary Road, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

B. Narayanaswamy

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Gandhi Krishi Vigyana Kendra, Bellary Road, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

Ashim Debnath*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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595 1731420765 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Mealybugs - An Invasive Consternation to Agricultural and Horticultural Crops Agriculture 246-251

Insect pests are major concern to agricultural and horticultural crop plants and cause significant yield reduction. Recently mealybugs emerging as an important insect pests, causes severe threat to crop cultivation and intricate to manage. Mealybugs are found almost in all the countries around the world causing severe damage to crop plants directly by sucking the sap and indirectly by transmitting the disease. Getting rid of this pest without having prior idea on their morphology, distribution and biology will be searching a ring in the ocean. Hence this paper deals and focused on mealybug species identification, distribution, host range, life cycle and mode of transport with the possible management strategies.

Crops, IPM package, Mealybugs, Pseudococcidae NIL 2021-04-20 Popular Article U. Pirithiraj, R. P. Soundararajan and M. Chandrasekaran

U. Pirithiraj

Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

R. P. Soundararajan*

Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, TNAU, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

M. Chandrasekaran

Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, TNAU, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

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596 1731421357 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Biofortified Crops: A Sustainable Way to Relieve Malnutrition Agriculture 252-257

Mineral deficiency is one of the main global challenges to human health for people who live especially in developing and under developed countries. Nearly 2 billion people suffer from iron deficiency, a quarter of the world’s population is suffering from poor zinc intakes, and the magnitudes for vitamin A deficiency are also very high as well. In India, 194.6 million people (World’s highest) live in under-nourished condition where 38.4% children of them are stunted of under 5 years age and 35.7% are underweight and 21.9% of the population of India lives under poverty line which is a critical situation. This reason why it is also known as ‘Hidden hunger’ which results in poor growth and development of children, poor immunity, weakness, fatigue, irritability, hair loss, sterility, morbidity and early age death.

Fatigue, Hidden hunger, Morbidity, Sterility NIL 2021-04-22 Popular Article Virendra Bahadur, Tarkeshwar, Akhilesh Kumar and Ankur Singh

Virendra Bahadur, Tarkeshwar*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, A.N.D.U.A.T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Akhilesh Kumar

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, A.N.D.U.A.T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Ankur Singh

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, A.N.D.U.A.T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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597 1731421732 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Adequate Management of Fruit and Vegetable Wastes in Mandies Agriculture 258-260

At present, fruit and vegetable mandies (wholesale markets) are generating a large amount of wastes and this constitutes a source of obstacle in the area. Waste in mandies that is daily dumped directly in the landfill without any treatment causes not only greenhouse gas emission and pollution but also leads to shortage of land. Fruit and vegetable waste management is a big issue in Indian scenario. Waste can contain many reusable substances of high value and depending on there being an adequate technology, this residual matter can be converted into commercial products either as raw material for secondary processesor as operating supplies and this is ingredients of new products. Multifarious valuable substances in food production are suitable for separation and recycling at the end of their life cycle, even though present separation and recycling processes are not absolutely cost efficient.

Fruit and Vegetable Waste, Greenhouse gas, Pollution, Wholesale market NIL 2021-04-25 Popular Article Yogendra Yadav, Girijesh Yadav, Tarkeshwar, Amit Kumar and Pawan Kumar

Yogendra Yadav

Dept. of Agriculture, Government of Uttar Pradesh, Deoria, Uttar Pradesh (274 509), India

Girijesh Yadav*

Dept. of Agricultural Extension and Communication, SVPUAT, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 110), India

Tarkeshwar

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Amit Kumar

Dept. of Horticulture, SVPUAT, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 110), India

Pawan Kumar

Dept. of Entmology, SVPUAT, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh (250 110), India

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598 1731553195 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Triple Mutant Bengal Strain (B.1.618) of Coronavirus and the Worst COVID Outbreak in India Agriculture 261-265

India is currently the first most affected country in the world. In the ferocious second COVID wave, India has seen emergence of at least two unique mutations of SARS-CoV-2, but there are other infectious variants around the world that could be a factor too. As India reels under a surge of new COVID-19 cases and deaths, experts have theorised that the new second wave of infections is driven by the double mutant variant B.1.617 discovered in the country. The B.1.617 variant was first detected in Maharashtra in October. It was initially thought to comprise two mutations E484Q and L452R and hence, referred to as a double mutant variant. But now scientists believe the variant (B.1.618) consists of more mutations: E154K, P681R and Q1071H. It may evade some of the body’s immune response but scientists say most vaccines should still help reduce severity of disease.

COVID-19, India, Second wave, Triple mutant NIL 2021-04-27 General Articles Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Ambika Prasad Mishra and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751003), India

Ambika Prasad Mishra

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751003), India

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599 1731553576 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Threats of the Alien Pest Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) Incidence in India and Its Integrated Management Approach Agriculture 266-269

The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) incidence was first reported in Karnataka state on maize during 2018, thereafter it spread rapidly all over India due to little characteristic behaviour like voraciousness, fast and rapid flying capacity and more than 100 alternate hosts. Development of integrated pest management (IPM) approach to manage the pest is in infancy in India for want of basic information about this pest. For effective control of this pest in our country, periodical awareness training to maize growers and capacity building on early scouting, surveillance and monitoring of FAW incidence to extension officers and input dealers are highly required. The integration of physical, chemical, and biological method is the key approach to reduce the impact of the pest on the crops.

Biology, Damage, Fall armyworm, Integrated pest management NIL 2021-04-28 Popular Article S. Balabantaray and K. C. Samal

S. Balabantaray*

Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 012), India

K. C. Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 012), India

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600 1731554252 Biotica Research Today April (2021) A Discussion on Second Wave of COVID-19 Pandemic in India Agriculture 273-275

In India, a new double mutant strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has been discovered. The new virus strain, which contains two mutations, is highly infectious and has the ability to bypass immunity acquired by natural infection or vaccination. The development raises significant concerns for the nation, as a second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic looms large in a country where over 50 million people have already been vaccinated against the disease. The fraction of samples with the E484Q and L452R mutations has increased in Maharashtra, India, compared to December 2020, according to an examination of samples from the state. India has administered more than 100 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine as of April 10, making it the fastest country to do so. The vaccine can now be administered in private sector facilities as well. This necessitates a high degree of planning and readiness at each centre.

COVID-19, India, Second wave, Vaccines NIL 2021-04-29 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Lipi Ghosh and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Lipi Ghosh

School of Development Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 088), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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601 1731554740 Biotica Research Today April (2021) Fish Processing Byproducts Derived Protein Hydrolysates and It’s Potential as Antioxidants Agriculture 276-278

Lipid Oxidation causes quality depreciation during processing and storage of foods. It leads to rancidity, changes of texture, discoloration and release of potential toxic compounds like malondialdehyde (MDA) and cholesterol oxidation products (COPs). The formation of free radicals is an additional problem causing oxidative stress steering cardio vascular diseases. The importance of natural antioxidants for preventing oxidative stress is also emerging among consumer’s concern. The Protein hydrolysates extracted from seafoods and its byproducts could deliver various beneficial properties such as antioxidant, anticholesterimic and antimicrobial activity as revealed by various studies. The protein hydrolysates could be effectively produced from various byproducts such as skin, head, dark muscle, viscera and bone. Several commercial protein hydrolysates products are also developed from various finfishes and shellfishes which serve as antioxidants and offer various health benefits.

Antioxidants, Lipid oxidation, Processing byproducts, Protein hydrolysates NIL 2021-04-30 Popular Article Vignaesh Dhanabalan, Vinothkumar L., Marimuthu Manivannan and Martin Xavier K. A.

Vignaesh Dhanabalan*

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Vinothkumar L.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Marimuthu Manivannan

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Martin Xavier K. A.

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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602 1731555080 Biotica Research Today Insects Saprophagy Agriculture 279-281

Insects provide important ecosystem services like Nutrient cycling, decomposition of animal and plant matter and decomposers of corpse. Many insects and other arthropods are important decomposers especially Coleoptera, Diptera, Blattodae (Termites), and few Hymenoptera. These insects are largely responsible to create a layer of humus on the soil that provides an ideal environment for various fungi, microorganisms and bacteria. These organisms produce much of the nitrogen, carbon, and minerals that plants need for growth. Carrion feeders include several beetles, ants, mites, wasps, fly larvae (maggots), and others. These insects occupy the dead body for a short period of time but rapidly consume and/or bury the carcass. Typically, some species of fly are the first to eat the body, but the order of insects that follows is predictable and known as the faunal procession. Insects help humans in eradicating the dead and the decaying matter from human habitations.

Decomposers, Dung rollers, Recyclers, Scavengers NIL 2021-05-03 Popular Article Nisha Pradeepa K. and A. Subash Chandra Bose

Nisha Pradeepa K.*

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

A. Subash Chandra Bose

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

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603 1731558429 Biotica Research Today An Eco-Friendly Approach to Repel Away Wild Boar Agriculture 282-284

Wild boar (Sus scrofa L.), is the utmost communal native species of wildlife to bring about plants injury. It may destroy to agricultural crops by crushing or eating of plants. In several dwellings, wild boars are deliberated a pest species for the reason that these harm to crops and even spread infections to livestock and human. The incidence of damage was very high in crop fields adjacent to forest areas. Hence, attempts were made at Agriculture Research Station, Virinjipuram, Vellore district and identified the compounds that repel the wild boar from crop zone. Thus, the herbal product developed has reached almost all the districts of Tamil Nadu and also gaining its importance in adjacent states viz., Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala. Hence, the spread of this herbal product throughout Tamil Nadu and area protected for wild boar for a period of one year 2020 in Tamil Nadu was investigated.

Bio-repellant, Distribution status, Protection, Wild boar NIL 2021-05-05 Popular Article Thilagam, P. and Nanthakumar, S.

Thilagam, P.*

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Agricultural Research Station, Virinjipuram, Vellore, Tamil Nadu (632 104), India

Nanthakumar, S.

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Agricultural Research Station, Virinjipuram, Vellore, Tamil Nadu (632 104), India

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604 1731559007 Biotica Research Today Lacustrine Fisheries of Kerala Agriculture 285-289

Kerala is bequeathed with inland lakes and wetlands of international and national importance. Vembanad Lake spreads over an area of 2033 square kilometres covering three districts. The wetland is an ecologically sensitive habitat, famous as a Ramsar site and a critically vulnerable area. Anthropogenic activities such as illegal fishing gears, fishery aggregation devices, land reclamation, manmade interferences, pollution and natural influences of lake have led to deterioration of natural habitat as well as became a threat to aquatic diversity. Therefore, taking ameliorative strategies such as policy development, strict implementation of laws, awareness and conservative programmes as well as initiating mitigation strategies like CRPS, mangrove restoration programmes, analysing the livelihood status of fishers of the lake pertains to relieving the adverse impacts and enhances health status of the lake.

Ameliorative strategies, ATREE, CRPS, Lake NIL 2021-05-06 Popular Article Vandana Gokul Das, Thankam Theresa Paul, Albin Albert C., S. Manoharan, Deepa Sudeeshan and B. K. Das

Vandana Gokul Das

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 024), India

Thankam Theresa Paul*

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 024), India

Albin Albert C.

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 024), India

S. Manoharan

 

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 024), India

Deepa Sudeeshan

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 024), India

B. K. Das

ICAR- Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, West Bengal (700 120), India

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605 1731640316 Biotica Research Today Prospect of Drip Irrigation in Rice Cultivation Agriculture 292-293

Rice is cultivated in large area in the state of West Bengal as well as in India. The prevailing rice cultivation practice water requirement is very high and threat to groundwater reserve and environment. It is felt necessary to find out a suitable irrigation practice which could considerably reduces the irrigation water requirement and connect to best management practices for better yield & economy. Drip irrigation proved its advantage in terms of yield and economy over conventional method of rice cultivation. As the initial cost of drip system is very much high, farmers have unwillingness to adopt this new technology. But the Central and State Government both are tried to bring more land under the drip system by giving subsidy to the farmers.

Conventional method, Drip system, Groundwater, Subsidy NIL 2021-05-08 Popular Article Uddipta Ghosh and Nabanita Sarkar

Uddipta Ghosh*

Dept. of Civil Engineering, JIS College of Engineering, Kalyani, West Bengal (741 235), India

Nabanita Sarkar

Dept. of Soil and Water Engineering, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal (741 252), India

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606 1731640647 Biotica Research Today Doubling the Income of Farmers of the Country: Ways and Means Agriculture 294-296

India is an agriculture country and 80% population depends on agriculture. Agriculture is a platform that requires a versatile extension because most of the occupation is related to agriculture and its by-product. Urbanisation decreases the income of agriculture and it is the main reason that young generations are not interested in agriculture and agriculture-based farm. Government has taken various initiatives to raise the income of farmers. They are migrated to the industry for better income and now it is very crucial time to think that how do we increase the income from agriculture, increases the income of farmers and motivate the young generation to move in this sector for betterment of country. This is possible when we come together for the better development of agriculture. Agriculture extension program will surely change the current scenario of farmers in terms of their income.

Agriculture, Farmers, Food security, Urbanisation NIL 2021-05-09 Popular Article Vivek Chandra Verma, Vivek Kumar Tiwari, Avantika, Thupstan Tsewang and Somen Acharya

Vivek Chandra Verma*

Defence Institute of High Altitude Research-DRDO, Base Lab Chandigarh, Near 3BRD, Industrial Area Phase-1, Ramdarbar, Chandigarh (160 002), India

Vivek Kumar Tiwari

Defence Institute of High Altitude Research-DRDO, Base Lab Chandigarh, Near 3BRD, Industrial Area Phase-1, Ramdarbar, Chandigarh (160 002), India

Avantika

Defence Institute of High Altitude Research-DRDO, Base Lab Chandigarh, Near 3BRD, Industrial Area Phase-1, Ramdarbar, Chandigarh (160 002), India

Thupstan Tsewang

Agriculture Research Unit, Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR), DRDO, Union Territory of Ladhak (194 101), India

Somen Acharya

Defence Institute of High Altitude Research-DRDO, Base Lab Chandigarh, Near 3BRD, Industrial Area Phase-1, Ramdarbar, Chandigarh (160 002), India

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607 1731641530 Biotica Research Today Biofortification: Ensuring Nutrient-Rich Food Production Agriculture 303-305

Biofortification usually refers to the enhancement of the nutrient content of crops through advanced breeding techniques. The main aim behind the development of biofortified crops is to retard malnutrition grasping our population. Biofortification is focused on the rural poor population who primarily rely on the local foods as their essential source of nourishment. Several biofortified staple crops such as provitamin A-biofortified sweet potato (‘orange sweet potato’), iron-biofortified beans (‘iron beans’), and zinc-biofortified rice (‘zinc rice’) have been introduced into developing countries to reduce micronutrient deficiencies.

Biofortification, Deficiency, Malnutrition, Micronutrient NIL 2021-05-11 Popular Article Ratul Moni Ram and Debajit Borah

Ratul Moni Ram*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, SGT University, Gurugram, Haryana (122 505), India

Debajit Borah

Dept. of Extension Education, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

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608 1731642199 Biotica Research Today Naturally Coloured Cotton: Eco-Friendly Fibre for Future Agriculture 309-311

Cotton with naturally coloured lint other than white is commonly referred as coloured cotton. In India, about 40 coloured genotypes of upland cotton (G. hirsutum), in various shades of brown and green colour are available. The naturally colored cotton is a pollution-free, eco-friendly, energy-efficient, cost-effective, non-toxic, novel viable textile material which could be explored for different product developments in the future. Colored cotton has both unique and desirable qualities beneficial to the consumer and the environment. The naturally colored cotton fiber had short upper half mean length, low uniformity index, low fiber strength, good fineness, low elongation (%), good uniformity, and average maturity. As the world is moving toward pollution-free organic textiles and products, the naturally colored cotton is going to be the next buzz word in the market. This is because; the production process of naturally colored cotton skips the most polluting activity (dyeing) of the textile product manufacturing.

Coloured cotton, Coloured lint, Fibre quality, Gossypium spp. NIL 2021-05-13 Popular Article N. Premalatha

N. Premalatha

Dept. of Cotton, Centre for Plant Breeding and Genetics, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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609 1731643580 Biotica Research Today Seaweed Toxicological Effects: Awareness of Protections for Human Consumption Agriculture 315-317

One of the main contributors in terms of both food security and balanced diet is the source of seaweed for so many biologically active substances. Documented and consumed massively in many countries for their numerous benefits. However, their toxicity records, which may be attributed to toxic chemical compounds from seaweed, epiphytic bacteria or harmful algal bloom and ingested heavy metals from seawater, are without focus. The excess of these components could result in adverse interactions in the human body with drugs and hormone levels. It is important to resolve their dangerous and toxic aspects because of their global use and in order to meet growing needs.

Active compounds, Regulatory bodies, Seaweeds, Toxicity NIL 2021-05-14 Popular Article Ambika Binesh and Kaliyamurthi Venkatachalam

Ambika Binesh*

Dept. of Basic Sciences (Biotechnology), Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, OMR Campus, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

Kaliyamurthi Venkatachalam

Dept. of Basic Sciences (Biochemistry), Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, OMR Campus, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

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610 1731651314 Biotica Research Today Misfortune Never Comes Alone - The New “Black Fungus” Accompanying COVID-19 Wave Agriculture 318-320

Mucormycosis is a rare angio-invasive illness caused by the fungi Mucorales, which is often seen in immune-compromised patients. Rhino-orbitocerebral, cutaneous, disseminated, gastrointestinal, and pulmonary forms of this unusual fungal infection exist. Dr. Akshay Nair, a Mumbai-based eye surgeon, was waiting to operate on a 25-year-old woman who had recovered from Covid-19 three weeks prior on 8th May 2021 morning. He inserted a tube into her nose and was scraping mucormycosis-infected tissues, an uncommon but harmful fungal infection. The nose, eye, and even the brain are all affected by this violent infection. Doctors are now registering a number of cases involving a mysterious infection - also known as the "black fungus" among returning and recovered Covid-19 patients as a deadly second wave of Covid-19 ravages India.

Black fungus, Covid-19 second wave, India, Mucormycosis NIL 2021-05-14 General Articles Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Ambika Prasad Mishra, Pranaya Pradhan and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Ambika Prasad Mishra

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

Pranaya Pradhan

Dept. of Nematology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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611 1731651882 Biotica Research Today Introduction of Nanoparticles in Agriculture Agriculture 321-323

Nanotechnology is a branch of science which manipulates the properties of particles keeping in size range of 1-100 nm. The particles come between 1-100 nm is called nanoparticles. The nanoparticles have proven excellent physical, chemical and other properties than bulk particles. This advantage has been used in almost all fields including agriculture. The research associated with nanoparticles in agriculture is still rudimentary. The existing findings proven that fertilizer use efficiency of nanoparticles are very high compared to conventional fertilizers. They act as smart delivery fertilizer units. Nano herbicides also have proven advantages than bulk. Nano particles can serve as smart sensors in hi-tech agriculture. But the fixation of optimum dose of nano particles in agriculture is still struggling. It was seen that even small doses of nanoparticles cause toxic impacts on crops. So, there is need of detailed research about nanoparticles in agriculture to bring nanoscience from “lab to field”.

Nanotechnology, Nano herbicide, Nano sensors, Nano fertilizer NIL 2021-05-15 Popular Article Aswathy S. Nair and Durga C.

Aswathy S. Nair*

State Emergency Operation Centre, Kerala State Disaster Management Authority, Kerala (695 033), India

Durga C.

Dept. of Agronomy, Kerala Agriculture University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India

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612 1731652506 Biotica Research Today Biology and IPM Practices for Pod Fly in Pigeonpea Agriculture 324-326

Pigeonpea Cajanus cajan (L.) Millp. is an important pulse crop, which is widely cultivated throughout India. It is also known by names like arhar, red gram or tur, grown in Kharif season of tropics and sub-tropics. The pod fly, Melanagromyza obtusa Malloch (Diptera: Agromyzidae) is small black fly, lay eggs through the wall of young pod, and is of economic importance only in the larval stages and is the major pest in medium and long duration varieties. Partially matured pods are used for egg laying than the tender or fully matured pods. Pod fly being an internal feeder, lay eggs inside the immature pod. The eggs hatch and developing maggot feeds on the developing immature seeds by making tunnels and pupate. Thus making the seeds unfit for human consumption as well as seed purpose.

Biology, Management, Pigeonpea, Pod fly NIL 2021-05-16 Popular Article M. M. Deshmukh

M. M. Deshmukh

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, Maharashtra (431 402), India

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613 1731652766 Biotica Research Today Impacts of Lightening on Agriculture and Its Remediation Agriculture 327-329

Lightening is one of the naturally occurring devastating disaster causing dreadful effects in all sectors. Considering the frequency of occurrence and impact, Kerala declared lightening as a state disaster. Lightening causes death fatalities as well losses in agriculture sector. Lightening causes pull up of palm trees and premature fruit drop or deflation in other crops. The main challenge posed by lighting injury is to diagnosis the problem correctly. At the same time lightening benefits soil by adding atmospheric nitrogen. Earth Networks contributes to national, state and municipal efforts to minimize lightning injuries and damage by deploying and operating total lightning detection networks. Other than this, farmers need to take precautionary actions based on bulletins published by concerned authority.

Agriculture, Disaster, Lightening injury, Nitrogen fixation NIL 2021-05-16 Popular Article Aswathy S. Nair and Durga C.

Aswathy S. Nair*

State Emergency Operation Centre, Kerala State Disaster Management Authority, Kerala (695 033), India

Durga C.

Dept. of Agronomy, Kerala Agriculture University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India

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614 1731653021 Biotica Research Today Prospects of Sesame Cultivation in North Eastern India Agriculture 330-331

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), usually considered to be the oldest indigenous oilseed crop, is an important oilseed crop of India, including northeastern region of the country. Because of its high oil content, aroma and flavor, the crop is also known as ‘the queen of oilseeds’. Sesame is amongst the culturally most important crops of India, which has also got huge nutritional and medicinal values. It contains antioxidants such as sesamin, sesamolin and sesamol. Due to the presence of these antioxidants and other health benefits, sesame seeds are also known as ‘the seeds of immortality’. Grown with proper management strategies, the crop has potential to improve income and livelihood of farmers in northeastern region of India. Present article discusses the status and opportunities of sesame production in North Eastern India.

Medicinal values, Oilseed crop, Organic cultivation, Sesamum indicum L. NIL 2021-05-18 Popular Article Harendra Verma, Sakuonuo Theunuo, Amit Kumar, L. K. Baishya, Manoj Kumar and D. J. Rajkhowa

Harendra Verma

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Sakuonuo Theunuo

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Amit Kumar

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

L. K. Baishya

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Manoj Kumar*

ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, RCM, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

D. J. Rajkhowa

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

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615 1731673608 Biotica Research Today Community Seed Banking and Importance of Germplasm Conservation in North East India Agriculture 335-337

Under the influence of profit-oriented commercial agriculture, cultivation of genetically uniform high yielding varieties and hybrids gets more promotion, which considerably reduces the cultivation of diverse traditional landraces. Several important traditional landraces are even lost or are on the verge of extinction. These traditional landraces harbor the various important resistance genes/alleles against abiotic and biotic stresses, and are also the source of genetic variability for important quality traits. Biodiversity of Northeastern India is also under threat as farmers are moving towards commercial agriculture, which necessitates in-situ conservation of all available diversity of various crops by farmers and tribal communities to achieve the goals of sustainable agriculture in the face of changing climate and other impending biotic and abiotic stresses. Community Seed Banking (CSB) is one of the important methods to conserve agro biodiversity. The concept of CSB, it’s functioning, utility and other associated aspects have been elaborated in this article.

Biodiversity, Climate change, Commercial agriculture, Sustainable agriculture NIL 2021-05-19 Popular Article Harendra Verma, Amit Kumar, Manoj Kumar and D. J. Rakjkhowa

Harendra Verma

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Amit Kumar

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Manoj Kumar*

ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, RCM, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

D. J. Rakjkhowa

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

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616 1731674069 Biotica Research Today Impact of Biofloc Systems on Nutrient Use and Wastewater Management Agriculture 338-339

The application of Biofloc technology (BFT) provides advantages in the improvement of aquaculture production that could lead to the achievement of the objectives of sustainable growth. With less environmental impact, this technology may result in higher productivity. In addition, biofloc systems can be built and implemented in conjunction with other food production methods, thus encouraging efficient integrated systems aimed at generating more food and feed from the same land area with less input. In order to optimize the system (in relation to operational parameters), still more research is needed, e.g., in relation to nutrient recycling. Furthermore, research findings would need to be communicated to farmers as upgrading of their skills will be needed to incorporate biofloc technology.

Biofloc systems, Integrated system, Nutrient Utilisation, Wastewater management NIL 2021-05-19 Popular Article Kaliyamurthi Venkatachalam and Ambika Binesh

Kaliyamurthi Venkatachalam*

Dept. of Basic Sciences (Biochemistry), Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, OMR Campus, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

Ambika Binesh

Dept. of Basic Sciences (Biotechnology), Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, OMR Campus, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

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617 1731674544 Biotica Research Today Mites of Horticultural Crops and Their Management Agriculture 340-344

Horticultural crops are infested by four types of mites under families Tetranychidae, Tenuipalpidae, Tarsonemidae and Eriophidae. This problem is increasing due to their diverse habits, habitats, feeding nature along with climate change and indiscriminate use of insecticides. Except Eriophidae, most mites have broad hosts. Spider mites under Tetranychidae produce white to reddish leaf blotches leading to dry leaves. Pinkish leaf blotch without webbing is formed by Tenuipalpids. Stunted plant growth with downward leaf curling is common for Tarsonemids. Specific damage occurs by different Eriophid species. Including all of these, Integrated Mite management (IMM) has been highlighted here in details.

Horticultural, Management, Mites, Phytophagous NIL 2021-05-20 Popular Article Lakshman Chandra Patel

Lakshman Chandra Patel

Dept. of Agril. Entomology, Extended Campus of BCKV, Farm Gate, Kalna Road, Burdwan, West Bengal (713 101), India

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618 1731676289 Biotica Research Today Key Pests of Okra and Their Eco-Friendly Management Agriculture 348-350

Okra is an important vegetable crop grown throughout the year in India. The crop is attacked by a number of pests of which Melon thrips, leafhopper, whitefly, aphids, shoot, and fruit borer, okra fruit borer, red spider moth, damping off, wilt, powdery mildew, leaf spot, mosaic, leaf curl, and root-knot nematode are important. The productivity of okra is low in India is due to yield losses caused by various peats and diseases. In this document, we have tried to focus on the key pests of okra and their management strategies.

Diseases, Management, Okra, Pests NIL 2021-05-22 Popular Article Mukesh Sehgal, Meenakshi Malik and Ardhendu Chakraborty

Mukesh Sehgal*

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Meenakshi Malik

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Ardhendu Chakraborty

Krishi Vigyan Kendra-Khowai, Divyodaya, Chebri, Khowai, Tripura (799 207), India

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619 1731677563 Biotica Research Today Climate Change and Crop Stresses Agriculture 351-353

In recent years climate change has brought about drastic changes in agro-climatic conditions resulting in posing a constant threat to crop production by environmental stresses. Among various environmental conditions including biotic and abiotic stresses play an important role in reducing crop productivity. Abiotic stresses cause higher crop loss as compared to biotic stress. Although a lot of studies have been conducted in plant stress research, it is of major importance for researchers to look for good adaption strategies as different abiotic stresses arise together in the field. These stresses have a detrimental effect on farmer’s subsistence as well as the national economies and together with the current pandemic situation the global food security is put under threat.

Abiotic stress, Climate change, Food security, Yield loss NIL 2021-05-23 Popular Article Merentoshi, Ranjan Das and Lanunola Tzudir

Merentoshi*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development (SASRD), Nagaland University, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Ranjan Das

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

Lanunola Tzudir

Dept. of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development (SASRD), Nagaland University, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

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620 1731678090 Biotica Research Today The Unseen “Fungal Infections” – An Extra Thrust Aggravating COVID Second Wave in India Agriculture 354-356

India is witnessing a second wave of COVID-19 pandemic. According to a report of the money-control website on 22nd May 2021, so far the country has recorded over 2.62 crores confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 2,95,525 deaths. A total of 2,30,70,365 people have recuperated from COVID-19 so far. There are 29,23,400 active cases in the country as of date, which comprises 11.12 percent of the total caseload, the data stated. Amidst a rise in coronavirus cases in India, there have been several cases linked to the black fungus infection, or mucomycortisis, which is known to have an extremely high fatality rate. Several confirmed cases have been reported across states, which many believe to be the newest endemic on the rise. However, even though black fungus catalysing post-COVID complications continue to loom, there is a newfound threat that is baffling medical experts. According to reports, cases linked to 'white fungus' infection have been traced in Bihar, which health experts believe to be even scarier than the black fungus threat.

Corona virus, COVID, Fungal infection, India NIL 2021-05-24 General Articles Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Bhagyalaxmi Panda, Ambika Prasad Mishra and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Bhagyalaxmi Panda

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Ambika Prasad Mishra

Faculty of Agriculture, Dept. of Soil Science, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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621 1731678991 Biotica Research Today Solid Waste and Management Agriculture 357-359

Waste generation is at alarming rate and is one of the most discussing topics around the world. The waste material in environment reduces the quality of surroundings. Solid waste is any unwanted or discarded material that is not liquid or gas. Solid waste is broadly classified into industrial solid waste and municipal solid waste. The fastest growing solid waste problem in world is e-waste. Waste management involves integrated waste management technique where variety of strategies for both waste reduction and management is involved. The 3R’s resource use is widely used for waste management. The 3R’s includes Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Landfills, pyrolysis and compost are the common methods to handle waste. Reduction of waste generation and proper handling of generated waste is the need of today’s era.

3R’s, Compost, Pyrolysis, Solid waste management NIL 2021-05-25 Popular Article Aswathy S. Nair, Vaiznavi B. and Durga C.

Aswathy S. Nair*

State Emergency Operation Centre, Kerala State Disaster Management Authority, Kerala (695 033), India

Vaiznavi B.

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, TIAC, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu (627 001), India

Durga C.

Dept. of Agronomy, Kerala Agriculture University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India

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622 1731679707 Biotica Research Today Nanotechnology: An Insight for Food Processing Agriculture 364-366

Nanotechnology is an emerging technology gaining quantum in food processing. This novel processing technology caters various application like enhanced shelf life, controlled release, target delivery etc. Variety of novel foods like nanoemulsion, nanoencapsulation, nano sensors for packaging materials, edible packaging with nanoparticles are capturing the market and have potential economic value.

Food processing, Nanoemulsion, Nanoencapsulation, Nano sensors NIL 2021-05-26 Popular Article Shatabhisa Sarkar and Joy Kumar Dey

Shatabhisa Sarkar*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sepahijala, CAU (I), Latiacherra, Tripura (799 102), India

Joy Kumar Dey

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sepahijala, CAU (I), Latiacherra, Tripura (799 102), India

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623 1731680098 Biotica Research Today Covid-19 Pandemic: Changing the Perspective of Education with Special Reference to Agriculture Agriculture 367-370

Almost every sector has been affected by the global effects of pandemic Covid-19. The education sector is one the region that has unquestionably changed as a result of Covid-19. In India, over 32 crores students were unable to move to schools or universities, and all educational activities were halted. Instead of being an option, online learning has become a requirement. The online experience was crucial to ensuring that students continue their learning and interaction with the subjects they have chosen, and side by side ensured that schools could complete syllabus and teaching in some methodical way. It was noticed across India's Agricultural Universities, that the loss of academic learning time ranged from 210 to 270 hours per student. The Covid-19 pandemic has shown that change is unavoidable. To wash away the possibility of a pandemic, the education sector has been striving to survive crises with a new method and digitization of learning.

Agricultural universities, Covid-19 pandemic, Digitization, Innovations NIL 2021-05-26 Popular Article Falak Jan, Naveed Hamid and Mohd Razeef

Falak Jan

SKUAST Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir UT (190 025), India

Naveed Hamid*

SKUAST Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir UT (190 025), India

Mohd Razeef

SKUAST Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir UT (190 025), India

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624 1731680429 Biotica Research Today Water Hyacinth - Effective Remediation for Heavy Metal Pollution Agriculture 371-372

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia Crassipes) is a fast-growing aquatic plant considered as a weed when growth is not controlled. Heavy metal pollution in water bodies is increasing at alarming rate, reducing the quality of water bodies. Water hyacinth is typical example for hyper accumulators of heavy metals. Research studies shows that Eichhornia crassipes was able to accumulate chromium in its shoots at 223 times and zinc at 134 times than the concentration in the water. The presence of potential metal sites mainly on stems and roots makes the hyacinth a good tool for heavy metal extraction. The microorganisms associated with roots helps to do the transition of heavy metals by producing enzymes. It is not advisable to use the water hyacinth for compost making if it’s growing in contaminated water bodies.

Compost, Metal binding sites, Water hyacinth, Water pollution NIL 2021-05-26 Popular Article Aswathy S. Nair, Durga C. and Vaisznavi B.

Aswathy S. Nair*

State Emergency Operation Centre, Kerala State Disaster Management Authority, Kerala (695 033), India

Durga C.

Dept. of Agronomy, Kerala Agriculture University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India

Vaisznavi B.

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, TIAC, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu (627 001), India

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625 1731730857 Biotica Research Today Ash Weevil Myllocerus subfasciatus Guerin-Meneville (Coleoptera; Curculionidae) – An Emerging Threat to Brinjal Cultivation Agriculture 376-378

Brinjal is one of the predominant vegetable crops grown in India. The biotic factors viz., shoot and fruit borer Leucinodes orbonalis Guen; jassid Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida), whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Genn.), aphid Aphis gossypii Clover are major yield constraints in brinjal cultivation. In addition to the above the infestation of ash weevil Myllocerus subfasciatus causes major yield loss. Under favourable conditions it has the potential to cause 100% yield loss. The adult beetle notches the leaf margins and resulting in wilting of plants in patches. The grubs feed on the roots and causes drying of plants. As the damage occurs mostly during flowering and fruit initiation period the loss will be severe. The egg, larva and pupal periods last for about 3-11, 3-42 and 5-7 days respectively. Grubs being subterranean need timely intervention for effective management. Application of oiled neem cake, entomopathogenic nematode, insecticide application is some of strategies used for the management of ash weevil in brinjal.

Ash weevil, Brinjal, Entomopahogenic nematode, Metarhizium NIL 2021-05-27 Popular Article Shanmugam, P. S., T. Srinivasan, V. Baskaran and N. Sathiah

Shanmugam, P. S.*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

T. Srinivasan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V. Baskaran

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

N. Sathiah

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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626 1731731283 Biotica Research Today Product Testing Techniques Agriculture 379-381

Now a days product testing is most important criteria because of emerging harmful product defects. The main aim of this paper is to know about product testing techniques available to use. These techniques are significant to know about product manufacturing and material defects. Product recall or seal can have done by using these testing techniques.

Concept testing, Product testing, Test marketing, Testing techniques NIL 2021-05-27 Popular Article Varnam Radhika and Jogipet Prasoona

Varnam Radhika*

Dept. of Family Resource Management, College of Community Science, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agriculture University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

Jogipet Prasoona

Dept. of Foods and Nutrition, College of Community Science, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agriculture University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

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627 1731732137 Biotica Research Today A Multi-Trait Mechanisms of PGPR in Plant Disease Management Agriculture 382-385

In today, science has developed in all the sectors around global wide, but the starvation, nutrient deficiencies, new emerging diseases and mortality were increased due to population growth rate, land degradation, soil nutrient loss and insufficient level of food sources and highest demand. Under these situations, global level scientific visions and approaches were highly focused on the usage of microorganisms in the agriculture and related sectors as a green way or “organic agriculture”. This approach was applied in the strategies such as biocontrol, biofertilizers and biopesticides (PGPR and fungi). These microorganisms were used on the basis of biological and metabolic pathways. Using beneficial microbes (PGPR) is a tremendous nature oriented because it needs highly knowledgeable about microorganisms. When we assumed it, all living organisms and nature become the safest one achieved with harmless-green way of food security on the earth.

Biocontrol, DAPG, PGPR, Siderophore NIL 2021-05-28 Popular Article Murali Sankar, P., Shreedevasena, S., Kaviyarathinam, T. and Syamala, M.

Murali Sankar, P.*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, SRSIAT, Vedasandur, Dindigul, Tamil Nadu (624 710), India

Shreedevasena, S.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, UAS, GKVK, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

Kaviyarathinam, T.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, SRSIAT, Vedasandur, Dindigul, Tamil Nadu (624 710), India

Syamala, M.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, TIAC, Raadhapuram, Tamil Nadu (627 111), India

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628 1731732632 Biotica Research Today Roof Gardening Agriculture 386-389

Urban environments face many challenges related to the health and well-being of the citizens. Environmental qualities in urban areas are getting worse by the minute. Hence, Roof garden can be splendid substitute for natural looking landscaped areas at the ground level. A roof garden is a garden on the roof of a building. Besides the decorative benefit, roof planting may provide food temperature control, hydrological benefits, architectural enhancement, habitats or corridor for wildlife, recreational, opportunities and in large scale it may even have ecological benefits. The practice of cultivation food on the rooftop of building is sometimes referred as rooftop farming roof top farming is usually done using green roof, hydroponics, aeroponics or container garden. In addition with the decorative benefit, roof gardening may provide food, temperature control, hydrological benefits, architectural enhancement, habitats for wildlife, recreational opportunities, and ecological benefits.

Aeroponics, Extensive, Hydroponics, Intensive NIL 2021-05-28 Popular Article Abhay Kumar Yadav, Vikash Singh, Prabhakar Yadav and Ritesh Singh

Abhay Kumar Yadav*

Dept. of Horticulture, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Vikash Singh

Dept. of Horticulture, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Prabhakar Yadav

Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Allied Industries, Rama University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (209 217), India

Ritesh Singh

Dept. of Horticulture, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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629 1731733136 Biotica Research Today Integrated Livestock cum Fish Production System Agriculture 390-392

Integrated Farming System (IFS) is an efficient recycling tool of farm waste and by-products. The integrated livestock cum fish cultivation is a utilization of livestock farm wastes used to fish production. The commonly used livestock cum fish production systems are cattle/ buffalo cum fish integration, sheep/ goat cum fish integration, pig cum fish integration and duck cum fish integration systems. The successful livestock cum fish integration is depends upon selection of fish species, stocking rate & time of fishes, management of fish ponds and harvesting time of fishes. It was concluded that the livestock cum fish integration systems are effective tool to utilize the farm wastages, by-products and enhance the livestock farmer’s livelihood.

Cattle, Fish, Livestock, Pig NIL 2021-05-28 Popular Article T. Chandrasekar

T. Chandrasekar

VC & RI, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Theni, Tamil Nadu (625 602), India

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630 1731734100 Biotica Research Today Alternate Potassium Fertilizing Sources for K Economy in India Agriculture 396-398

India attained self-sufficiency in food grain production. But it has to increase the production and productivity to meet the increasing demand. Potassium plays an important role in enhancing crop growth and productivity. The ratio of N, P and K fertilizers consumption is not optimum over years. Most of the potash fertilisers are imported from other countries. To reduce the import of K fertilizers, alternate K sources should be explored. Some of the natural sources such as glauconite and feldspar and the industrial by products like fly ash and rice husk ash may be exploited to meet the K demand in India.

Alternate potassium sources, Glauconite, Feldspar, Fly ash NIL 2021-05-29 Popular Article K. M. Sellamuthu and P. Malathi

K. M. Sellamuthu*

Dept. of Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College and Research Institute (Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625604), India

P. Malathi

Dept. of Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College and Research Institute (Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625604), India

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631 1731734612 Biotica Research Today Biofortification of Crops to Overcome Malnutrition in India Agriculture 402-405

About 33 percent of the global population is being witnessed with malnutrition or hidden hunger due to the deficiency of micronutrients viz., Iron, Zinc and Iodine and also Vitamins. There are variety of reasons which are responsible for deficiency of micronutrients in the food grains viz., cultivation of crops in deficient soils, problem soils like calcareous or alkali soils, poor fertilizer application, continuous application of straight fertilizers, mono cropping, high cropping intensity, poor application of organic manures, loss of nutrient during processing of food grains etc. Biofortification can ensure availability of food grains rich in minerals and vitamins which is possible by conventional breeding, genetic engineering, agronomic management techniques and proper post harvest processing methods. Through mass multiplication of biofortified varieties of staple food grains and creating awareness among the farmers, malnutrition of the people can be reduced and immunity can be improved.

Biofortification, Crops, Malnutrition, Micronutrients NIL 2021-05-30 Popular Article K. M. Sellamuthu and P. Malathi

K. M. Sellamuthu*

Dept. of Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College and Research Institute (Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

P. Malathi

Dept. of Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College and Research Institute (Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

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632 1731735164 Biotica Research Today Fresh Fish: Handling, Transportation and Preservation Agriculture 409-412

The fresh fish has provided an immense opportunity to millions of people for employment as well as food. Fishermen, fish processors and traders in many countries often rely on simple low cost equipment and live and work in remote areas where basic services and facilities are not available. The purpose of processing and preserving fish is to consume fish in good, safe and usable condition. Fish begins to spoil as soon as it is caught, perhaps even before it is taken out of the water as fish is a highly perishable commodity. Fish can be kept alive in floating cages, wells and fish ponds. Stocking of good quality and healthy fish seedlings or fingerlings is a prerequisite for successful fish culture and optimum profit. Similarly, price for fish produce is often higher if live fishes are transported suitably to markets and supplied fresh to consumers.

Fresh fish, Onboard handling, Preservation, Transportation NIL 2021-05-30 Popular Article Monalisa Mishra, G. N. Kulkarni and Subal Kumar Ghosh

Monalisa Mishra*

Dept. of FPT, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kerala (682 506), India

G. N. Kulkarni

Retd. Professor, College of Fisheries, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra (415 629), India

Subal Kumar Ghosh

School of Fisheries, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha (761 211), India

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633 1731736491 Biotica Research Today Micronutrient Malnutrition in Groundnut Agriculture 413-414

Groundnut is an energy rich crop but grown under energy starved conditions on marginal lands and soils with poor fertility. Micronutrient stress in groundnut pulls down the productivity of crop to a great deal. Lime Induced Iron Chlorosis is commonly noticed in calcareous soils and soils of high pH which together affects the fodder value of haulms. Interveinal chlorosis, marginal necrosis, rosetting of leaves, pop seeds and ill filled pods are the common symptoms of micronutrient stress in groundnut. Soil application of micronutrient fertilizers in deficient soils and foliar sprays in the standing crop can alleviate micronutrient malnutrition in groundnut. Enrichment of soil with organic matter can help in avoiding fixation losses of micronutrients and aid in enhancing use efficiencies.

Groundnut, Iron, Micronutrient, Zinc NIL 2021-05-31 Popular Article C. Sudhalakshmi and B. Meena

C. Sudhalakshmi*

Coconut Research Station, Aliyar Nagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

B. Meena

Coconut Research Station, Aliyar Nagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

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634 1731736744 Biotica Research Today Emerging Technologies in Fish Processing Agriculture 415-417

Health, nutrition and convenience are the major factors driving the global food industry. Fish products have attracted considerable attention as a source of protein, vitamins, minerals, fats and rank third among the food categories with fastest overall growth worldwide. As fish is highly perishable, proper processing and packaging helps in maintaining the quality of fish.

Emerging technologies, Fishery product, Packaging, Processing NIL 2024-05-31 Popular Article Vinothkumar L., Vignaesh Dhanabalan and Manivannan M.

Vinothkumar L.*

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Vignaesh Dhanabalan

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Manivannan M.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

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635 1731737073 Biotica Research Today The Rising Havoc of the Black, White and Yellow Fungi in India Agriculture 418-420

The diseases caused by fungus are common in the plant kingdom, but in humans and animals, fungal infection is not familiar due to the protective shield provided by the immune system of humans and animals. However, in the scenario where the immune system is weakened by the infection of the deadly Coronavirus, the harmless fungi group takes an opportunity to attack the human body, which can be life-threatening. The fungal pathogen invades the human body through wounds or via the respiratory tract. Therefore, when it enters the body tissue, it eats it up for energy and withstands the immune shield. Currently, the world is dealing with the novel Coronavirus, now the profound attack of another group of microscopic enemy called black, white and yellow fungus infection has created havoc amidst the insuperable pandemic.

Black fungus, Covid-19, White fungus, Yellow fungus NIL 2021-05-31 Popular Article Ankita Mishra, Laxmipreeya Behera, Siddhartha Shankar Sharma and Kailash Chandra Samal

Ankita Mishra

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Laxmipreeya Behera*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Siddhartha Shankar Sharma

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CUTM, Paralakhemundi, Gajapati, Odisha (761 211), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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636 1731761445 Biotica Research Today Potential and Prospects of Agroforestry in Dryland Agro Ecosystem Agriculture 421-423

Dry land constitutes 69 percent of the cultivated area of India, which contributed about 42 percent of total food production and thereby places a critical role in Indian food security. Dry land agriculture is often risk prone due to crop failure because of erratic rainfall, low fertility status of the soil, land degradation and desertification, multiple nutrient deficiencies, prevalence of mono cropping and poor economic situation of the farmers. Under such situation agroforestry is an option for sustainable production system in dry land agriculture through holding the soil against erosion, improving the soil fertility (by fixing the nitrogen or bringing minerals from deep in the soils and depositing them by leaf fall), maintains the ecological balance through biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration. Thus, agroforestry system limits the risks and increases the sustainability in dry land agriculture.

Agroforestry, Carbon sequestration, Dryland Agriculture, Nutrient cycling NIL 2021-06-05 Popular Article Mubeena P.

Mubeena P.

College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

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637 1731762352 Biotica Research Today Farm Women Empowerment in Pandemic – A Step into Digital Era Agriculture 426-427

India is primarily an agriculture based country. 70% of its rural households still depend on agriculture for their household. Women run produce 20-30% less than the farms run by men. Women produce 60-80% of the world’s food and they own less than 1% of worlds land. Farm women contribution to agriculture helps to make countries self-reliant and solve hunger issues too world-wide. Digital technology usage in agriculture by women creates a landmark for development of women and agricultural too which helps to achieve sustainable developmental goals in long run.

Farm women, NGOs, Pandemic, SHGs NIL 2021-06-06 Popular Article Challa Lalitha Navya and Jagadeeswari Boppana

Challa Lalitha Navya*

Dept. of Agricultural Extension, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

Jagadeeswari Boppana

Dept. of Agricultural Extension, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

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638 1731762859 Biotica Research Today Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum): The Natures Gift to Mankind Agriculture 428-429

Tulsi, commonly known as "Holy Basil," is a well-known herb in Indian Ayurvedic medicine and has become a popular supplement owing to its multiple health advantages. Tulsi may benefit those suffering from type 2 diabetes by reducing blood sugar levels due to hypoglycaemic properties. It provides more antioxidants, which lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease. It comprises phytochemicals which fully prevent against skin, lung, and oral cancer. It seems to have anti-inflammatory properties that aid in the reduction of inflammation and high blood pressure. Though Tulsi is generally safe for most people, certain individuals should avoid using it unless allowed by their healthcare professional.

Antioxidants, Holy basil, Ocimum tenuiflorum, Tulsi NIL 2021-06-07 Popular Article Debarshi Mahato

Debarshi Mahato

Institute of Agriculture Science, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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639 1731763092 Biotica Research Today When Insects were Gods... Agriculture 430-432

Insects are considered as gods because the gods punish for their bad behaviour; gods are the good luck charm and it is believed from the ancient times. The best known examples of a god punishing people with insects are found in the Bible in the form of plagues sent to punish early Egyptians. One important function of myths is to explain some feature of life. Many myths explain the origin, morphology, and behaviour of different insects.

“Devils in the forms of gnats and tiny insects were thought to be especially dangerous, since one might swallow them unawares and thus become diabolically possessed.”

– E.P. Evans, 1906

Insects, Gods, Mythology, Tribes NIL 2021-06-07 Popular Article Nisha Pradeepa, K., A. Subash Chandra Bose and D. Indhu Mathi

Nisha Pradeepa, K.*

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

A. Subash Chandra Bose

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

D. Indhu Mathi

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

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640 1731764500 Biotica Research Today Humic Substances: An Elixir to Plant Growth Agriculture 435-436

Agrochemicals play a vital role in agriculture, representing a powerful tool for farmers to increase yield and guarantee continuous productivity throughout the seasons. Several technological innovations have been proposed to enhance the sustainability of agricultural production systems, through a significant reduction of synthetic agrochemicals like pesticides and fertilizers. A promising and environmental-friendly innovation is the utilization of natural plant biostimulants. Humic substances as a plant biostimulant are gaining importance due to its implication on various soil characteristics and enhanced nutrient uptake. These are heterogeneous organic molecules that form in the soil as byproducts of microbial metabolism of dead organic matter. The use of humic substances can represent a valuable tool to enhance soil nutrient availability, plant nutrient uptake and assimilation.

Biostimulants, Fulvic acid, Humic acid, Nutrient uptake NIL 2021-06-09 Popular Article Navya M. V., Deepthi C., Mubeena P. and Usha C. Thomas

Navya M. V.*

AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Deepthi C.

AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Mubeena P.

AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Usha C. Thomas

AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

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641 1731764768 Biotica Research Today Psychoactive Mushrooms – An Untold Medical Mystery Agriculture 437-439

Every day, an unknown happens are actived in the world. When it’s for better livelihood it has been promboted otherwise it would be prohibited. The psychoactive or magic mushrooms are present in the human’s absence areas. During traditional periods, these mushrooms were used as spiritual and recreational purpose in global level. They had several species viz., Copelandia, Gymnopilus, Inocybe, Panaeolus Pholiotina, Pluteus and Psilocybe. It has some psychoactive (or) psychedelic compounds like, tryptamines, phenethylamines and lysergamides. These compounds are stimulated the receptors in the neuro system and modulates the activities in physical, visual and mental on human body. It possesses depression, psychological disorders and physical weakness by addiction in young generation. In spite these mushrooms are highly pharmaceutical nature in the psychopathology of human medicine. So, preserving these psychoactive mushrooms from smuggling and illegal trading is very helpful to the human livelihood from psychological diseases.

Copelandia spp., Hallucinogens, Psilocybin, Psychopathology NIL 2021-06-09 Popular Article Shreedevasena Sakthibalan, Ramyabharathi S. A., Shanmugapackiam S., Kaviyarathinam T. and Murali Sankar Perumal

Shreedevasena Sakthibalan

Dept. of Plant Pathology, UAS, GKVK, Bangalore, Karnataka (560065), India

Ramyabharathi S. A.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, CPPS, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Shanmugapackiam S.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, CPPS, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Kaviyarathinam T.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, SRSIAT, Vedasandur, Tamil Nadu (624 710), India

Murali Sankar Perumal*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, SRSIAT, Vedasandur, Tamil Nadu (624 710), India

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642 1731765421 Biotica Research Today Coconut Based Fodder Production in Kerala Agriculture 443-444

Coconut dominates the agriculture land in Kerala. As the per capita land availability is very less in Kerala, expansion of area for fodder production is not possible. Coconut garden offers a wide opportunity for fodder production in Kerala. Over 30% of the active roots occur in 25-60 cm depth and 2 m around the palm, leaving 70-75% of the soil available for use by other crops. In widely spaced coconut gardens i.e., above 7.6 m, intercropping is possible irrespective of the age of the plant. However, closely spaced palms aged between 8 and 25 years are generally not suitable for intercropping. Mature plantations over 25 years old palms allow sufficient light to enter the under storey, making conditions suitable for intercropping. Guinea grass is well suited for coconut garden and different varieties of hybrid Napier, stylosanthes, Fodder cowpea, Congosignal grass and subabul can also be grown as intercrop in coconut garden.

Abiotic stress, Coconut garden, Fodder, Shade NIL 2021-06-10 Popular Article Deepthi C., Navya M. V., Mubeena P. and Usha C. Thomas

Deepthi C.*

AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Navya M. V.

AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Mubeena P.

AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Usha C. Thomas

AICRP on Forage Crops & Utilization, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

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643 1731766057 Biotica Research Today Sustainable Backyard Poultry Production – TANUVAS Aseel: An Alternative Germplasm Agriculture 445-446

Native chickens are the backbone of self-sustaining backyard or free range system of production in rural, tribal and semi-urban areas with low input and ensures the nutritional security, self-sustainable income, empowerment and social upliftment. TANUVAS Aseel, a superior variety and dual purpose native chicken developed by Poultry Research Station, TANUVAS, Chennai for better production performance and disease tolerance. Aseel, a hardy bird with ability to thrive under adverse climatic conditions and most importantly its meat is considered to have a desirable taste and flavour.

Aseel, Backyard poultry, Empowerment, TANUVAS NIL 2021-06-11 Popular Article Varun A. and Alagudurai S.

Varun A.*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kallakuruchi (VPM-II), Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Alagudurai S.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kallakuruchi (VPM-II), Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

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644 1731767187 Biotica Research Today Red Ginger (Alpinia purpurata): A Potential Cut Flower in Plantation-Based Cropping System of Andaman and Nicobar Islands Agriculture 450-452

Red ginger (Alpinia purpurata) belonging to the family Zingiberaceae is a popular cut flower cultivated in tropics and sub tropics. Red ginger is widely used in landscape ornamental and as cut flower due to its long, attractive red flower bracts and lush green leaves. Red ginger is a potential crop to be exploited in tropics as the flowers are year-round and have outstanding post-harvest characteristics. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands is bestowed with humid tropical climate and is highly suitable for growing red ginger. The coconut and arecanut are the major crops grown in the Island, red ginger can be grown as an additional income source inter crop as it grows well under partial shade. In the perennial cropping system, red ginger cultivation helps the farmers to earn additional income and also serve as an alternative livelihood opportunity as the demand for flowers exists in the island throughout the year. The technology of growing red ginger as intercrop is plantation-based cropping system is discussed in this article.

Alpinia purpurata, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Intercrop, Red Ginger NIL 2021-06-12 Popular Article V. Baskaran, K. Abirami, T. Subramani and Augustine B. Jerard

V. Baskaran*

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands (744 101), India

K. Abirami

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands (744 101), India

T. Subramani

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands (744 101), India

Augustine B. Jerard

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands (744 101), India

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645 1731767431 Biotica Research Today Are Calcareous Soils Far Beyond Management? Agriculture 453-454

Calcareous soils occupy nearly 30% of the soils of the world and are characterized by the presence of calcic sub surface horizon. Free CaCO3 content of the soil is more than 5% and are common in arid and semi arid regions. pH of the calcareous soils is nearly 8.5 and produce brisk effervescence when treated with dilute hydrochloric acid. Ammonia volatilization, competition for potassium ions due to calcium-potassium imbalance, fixation of phosphorus, iron and zinc are the common problems encountered in these soils. Scrupulous application of organic manures, use of phosphorus solubilizing micro organisms, foliar application of micronutrients, avoiding crops sensitive to calcareousness, ploughing to break the impermeable layer are the management strategies that can be adopted to enhance the productivity of calcareous soils.

Ammonia volatilization, Calcareous, Calcic horizon, Fixation NIL 2021-06-13 Popular Article C. Sudhalakshmi

C. Sudhalakshmi

Coconut Research Station, Aliyar Nagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

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646 1731768547 Biotica Research Today Compensatory Growth Concept and Its Impact on the Aquaculture Sector Agriculture 460-463

Compensatory growth is signified by growth depression in unfavourable feeding conditions or environmental conditions, followed by an accelerated growth rate on the arrival of regular feeding or environmental conditions. This is characterized by two phases, i.e., initial catabolic phase in which period body utilizes the endogenous energy reserves whereas an in anabolic phase accelerated growth trajectory is achieved by utilizing the external source of nutrients. This growth stunting and further achievement of growth increase occur under the endocrinological regulation of fish body. Growth hormones (GH), Insulin-like growth factor (IGF), ghrelin, NPY are the prime hormones and neuropeptides associated with the growth regulation of fishes during compensatory growth. The concept of compensatory growth has its own set of advantage and disadvantages and it’s considered to be an ideal model for being utilised in aquaculture sector.

Anabolic, Catabolic, Compensatory growth, Lipostat Model NIL 2021-06-15 Popular Article Abhilipsa Biswal and Prem Prakash Srivastava

Abhilipsa Biswal*

Division of Fish Nutrition, Biochemistry and Physiology, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Prem Prakash Srivastava

Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

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647 1731768775 Biotica Research Today Nutrition Garden – A Way to Ensure Nutritional Security in Rural Areas Agriculture 464-467

Despite being the second largest producer of food, India is home to the world’s second largest undernourished population (195.9 million). The incidence of stunting in children is higher in rural areas due to lower income. In addition, more than half of the women (15–49 years) are anemic, which has lasting effects on future pregnancies and cause for the high rate of low-birth weight babies. In this regard vegetables play an important and significant role in human nutrition for not only providing essential nutrients but also providing compounds related to health promotion and disease prevention. But the present production of vegetables is not sufficient to meet the daily requirement of growing population. In order to combat this issue nutrition gardens enhance dietary diversity by providing micronutrients through constant supply of fruits and vegetables and sufficient to meet the family’s requirements at doorsteps which prevent malnutrition at household level.

Malnutrition, Nutrition garden, Nutritional security, Rural women NIL 2021-06-16 Popular Article A. Janaki Rani, S. Amutha and S. Kanchana

A. Janaki Rani*

Dept. of Extension Education and Communication Management, Community Science College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

S. Amutha

Dean, Community Science College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

S. Kanchana

Dept. of Human Development, Community Science College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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648 1731769018 Biotica Research Today Termites Menace in Agriculture and Their Management Agriculture 468-471

Termites are one of the most damaging insect’s pests in agriculture, forestry and plantation. Colonized living of termites with together makes its life more protected than other social insects making difficult to prevent agriculture from damage by this insect. Several management measures have been tailored to manage termites effectively including integration of all cultural, physical, chemical and biological methods. Adding organic material to the soil, crop rotation, physical barriers, encouraging predators, plant parts and plant extracts can be used effectively for control of this insect.

Agriculture, Management, Menace, Termites NIL 2021-06-17 Popular Article D. N. Kambrekar, Suresh Jambagi and Kartik Nidagundi

D. N. Kambrekar*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

Suresh Jambagi

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

Kartik Nidagundi

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

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649 1731769242 Biotica Research Today Future Perspectives and Global View: In Chickpea Biology, Nutrition and Production Loss Agriculture 472-476

Our children are mostly suffering from in malnutrition and unavailability of good nutritional foods and changing food habits from traditional to modern. These factors highly influenced the children’s health and provided poor immunity by nature. We forgot the important legumes and their nutritional values. Especially chickpea (C. arietinum L.); among all the legumes it contained high percent of proteins, amino acids and fibres. But today the cultivation and crop diversity are occupied due to climatic oriented making not interested in chickpea production and cultivation reduction. So, implementing the schemes with subsidies to farmers for cultivation of chickpea, arrangements of farmers’ campaigns and meetings with scientific ways of approaches by scientists were given the better results in chickpea cultivation during the future.

Chickpea, ICDS, Malnutrition, Soil health NIL 2021-06-18 Popular Article Murali Sankar Perumal, Shreedevasena Sakthibalan, Anantha Raju P., Karthiba L. and Vanitha S.

Murali Sankar Perumal*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, SRSIAT, Vedasandur, Dindigul, Tamil Nadu (624 710), India

Shreedevasena Sakthibalan

Dept. of Plant Pathology, UAS, GKVK, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

Anantha Raju P.

Dept. of Pulses, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Karthiba L.

Dept. of Pulses, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Vanitha S.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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650 1731812119 Biotica Research Today Assessment of Sowing Dates and Cropping Sequence on Productivity of Rapeseed Mustard in Assam Agriculture 477-481

Due to an enrichment of suitable agro-climatic conditions prevailing in Assam, farmers are highly encouraged to cultivate oilseed crops particularly rapeseed and mustard in a large scale by adopting scientific production technological interventions implemented by the resource persons and extension workers. Implementation of oilseeds production programme under ICAR-Directorate of Rapeseed Mustard Research Bharatpur, Rajasthan linked with Assam Agribusiness and Rural Transformation Project Scheme have extremely supported the farmers in terms of supply of seeds and farm inputs along with some agricultural farm machineries. In addition, farmers are also instructed to adopt the method of timely sowing of seeds in addition to appropriate cropping sequence in order to increase yield and decrease insect and pest infestation leading to create a significant impact on yellow revolution in Assam.

Cropping Sequence, Rapeseed Mustard, Sowing Dates, Yellow Revolution NIL 2021-06-18 Popular Article Priyanka Sharma, Monish Roy and Gadge Sushant Sundarrao

Priyanka Sharma*

ICAR-Directorate of Rapeseed Mustard Research, Bharatpur Rajasthan (APART) Sonitpur, Assam (784 001), India

Monish Roy

Uttar Banga Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Pundibari, Coochbehar, West Bengal (736 165), India

Gadge Sushant Sundarrao

Uttar Banga Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Pundibari, Coochbehar, West Bengal (736 165), India

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651 1731812755 Biotica Research Today Reaping Best from Sandy Soils Agriculture 486-488

Sandy soils are distributed throughout the globe and they are referred as ‘Hungry and Thirsty’ soils as they are poor in inherent soil fertility and retain very less water in the pores. They have weak and unstable soil structure with less surface area compared to clay soils eventually causing a setback in cation exchange reactions. Infiltration rate is very high (10-30 cm hr-1) and they very often encounter deficiencies of macro and micronutrients because of leaching losses of nutrients. Organic carbon content is less making the soil vulnerable to water and wind erosion. Compaction with stone roller, afforestation, application of organic manures, use of controlled release fertilizers, mulching and establishing water harvesting structures make the soils potentially productive and enable reaping better returns from the crops raised in these soils.

Compaction Technology, Leaching, Sandy soils, Soil Structure NIL 2021-06-19 Popular Article C. Sudhalakshmi

C. Sudhalakshmi

Coconut Research Station, Aliyar Nagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

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652 1731812987 Biotica Research Today Centella asiatica: A Multipurpose Medicinal Herb in the Homegardens of Tripura, North-East India Agriculture 489-491

Centella asiatica is a nutritionally important plant and an esteemed traditional medicine in South-East Asia. This magnificent medicinal herb is popular among the people of Tripura due to its multipurpose utility value. People of different communities nurture this useful herb in their homegardens. Besides vital medicinal properties, C. asiatica is also popular as a vegetable in this state. There is also remarkable demand for this herb in the market of Tripura. Better commercialization and industrial application of this herb may elevate the livelihood generation of rural people of this state.

Centella asiatica, Homegarden, Medicinal, Tripura NIL 2021-06-20 Popular Article Sumit Kumar Das and Subrata Das

Sumit Kumar Das*

Dept. of Forestry and Biodiversity, Tripura University, Suryamaninagar, Tripura (799 022), India

Subrata Das

Dept. of Forestry, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, West Bengal (736 165), India

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653 1731813963 Biotica Research Today Water Chestnut: A Promising Crop for Enhancing Farm Income Agriculture 495-497

Water chestnut is one of the most important aquatic nut crops grown in the freshwater wetland ecosystem in India. However, production of this is very low in India about 5 t ha-1. It is a nutrient dense fruit which is used as detoxifying agent. Water chestnuts are cholesterol and gluten free and water chestnuts are known to aid in curing jaundice and lowering blood pressure and a treasure trove of a wide range of macro and micro-nutrients. With the introduction of spineless cultivar and adopting new agro-techniques like, July plantation, use of FYM 5.0-8.0 t ha-1, use of inorganic fertilizer N:P:K @ 60:40:30 kg ha-1 and use of spacing of 1 m × 2 m for profit maximization even up to INR 1,90,000.00 ha-1 by selling fresh fruits.

Income, Variety, Water Chestnut, Yield NIL 2021-06-21 Popular Article B. R. Jana

B. R. Jana

ICAR-RCER, Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

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654 1731815416 Biotica Research Today Role of Essential Plant Nutrients: A Way to Teach Farmers Agriculture 501-504

After soybean and oil palm, rapeseed - mustard are the world's third most important edible oilseed crops. It is a member of the Brassicaceae family (Cruciferae). The percentage of oil fluctuates between 37 to 49 percent. The seed and oil are used as a seasoning in pickles, curries, vegetables, hair oils, medications, and grease manufacturing. By the year (2013-16), India has the highest average output of 1161 kg/ha against the world average 2144 kg/ha among the major rapeseed- mustard producing countries, and highest production (3640 kg/ha) by Europeon Union. Quality seed, fertilizer and irrigation facilities are the crop's biggest drawbacks. More than 80% of the land in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat is covered in mustard and need proper soil health management, particularly nutrient management, may increase mustard crop output.

Mustard yield, Nutrient dynamics, Problematic soil, Soil health NIL 2021-06-22 Popular Article M. L. Dotaniya, M. K. Meena, M. D. Meena, C. K. Dotaniya and L. K. Meena

M. L. Dotaniya*

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

M. K. Meena

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

M. D. Meena

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

C. K. Dotaniya

Dept. of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry, SKRAU, Bikaner, Rajasthan (334 006), India

L. K. Meena

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

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655 1731815788 Biotica Research Today Reducing Water Requirement for Makhana Farming: A Case Report Agriculture 505-507

Makhana (Euryale ferox) farming is many folds more remunerative than the majority of the conventionally grown field crops in India. With increasing realization of its economic prospects, farmers across the country have shown interest in makhana farming. However, the perception of very high water requirement for makhana crop remains a major hurdle for them. Traditionally, it is believed that a water depth of at least 5-6 ft is required for this crop, but recent studies confirm that makhana can be successfully grown in as less as 30 cm (1.0 ft) of standing water; even less (15-20 cm) during the vegetative growth. A farmer in the present case report showed the same. Also, a simple, cost effective and easily applicable technique of “polythene lining of the bunds”, substantially reduced the loss of costly irrigation water by lateral seepage through the bunds, reducing thereby the irrigation frequency required for maintaining a minimum-required water depth in makhana field, particularly before the onset of rainy season (March-May), the water-scare period.

Euryale ferox, Fox nut, Gorgon nut, Polythene lining NIL 2021-06-22 Success story Manoj Kumar, Dibyanshu Shekhar and Amba Kumari

Manoj Kumar*

ICAR- Research Complex for Eastern Region, Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

Dibyanshu Shekhar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jale, Darbhanga, Bihar (847 302), India

Amba Kumari

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jale, Darbhanga, Bihar (847 302), India

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656 1731816217 Biotica Research Today Novel Value-Added Products in Horticultural Sector Agriculture 508-510

While India is second largest producer of fruits and vegetables, only 10% of horticultural products are processed. Horticultural crops provide varied type of components, which can be effectively and gainfully utilized for value addition like pigment, amino acids, oleoresins, antioxidants, flavours and aroma. Horticultural crops are very well suited for value addition as they provide huge profit and their richness in health promoting compounds and higher potential for exports. Here are some of the processed products of horticultural crops.

Fermented, Pasteurized, Redistillation, Translucent NIL 2021-06-23 Popular Article P. J. Nivethaa and G. Sidhdharth

P. J. Nivethaa*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture (University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences), Mudigere, Karnataka (577 132), India

G. Sidhdharth

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute (Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

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657 1731816660 Biotica Research Today ‘Nano Urea Liquid’ – A Boon for Indian Farmers and Mother Earth Agriculture 511-514

‘Nano Urea Liquid', a first-of-its-kind product, is developed indigenously through proprietary technology at IFFCO’s Nano Biotechnology Research Centre (NBRC) in Kalol, Gujarat. The efficacy and production trials of the nano urea have been done in National Agriculture Research System (NARS), ICAR Research Institutes, State Agriculture Universities and Krishi Vigyan Kendras. The nano urea production will be done in three phases which might replace the use of conventional urea. Nanotechnology enabled the design of ultra-small urea particles that gave higher surface-mass ratios, which get absorbed by the plants when sprayed on their leaves. The nano urea is capable of revolutionizing the entire agriculture sector all over the world. The nano fertilizer would be more sustainable than conventional urea for the environment and reduce input, logistics and storage costs. It is a boon for India in boosting the economy and farmers' livelihood while reducing the pollution on the mother earth.

Cost, Environment, IFFCO, Nano urea NIL 2021-06-23 Popular Article Kajal Kiran and Kailash Chandra Samal

Kajal Kiran*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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658 1731817024 Biotica Research Today Bio-Medical Waste-Related Threat to the Urban Sanitation Workers of India Agriculture 515-518

Today, many retired sanitation workers are reminded of the 1994 plague, when workers were assigned without much protection. Nothing much has changed since. Even novel coronavirus also discerned sanitation workers are untouchable. So, there is no government record of death among sanitation workers due to COVID-19. Every day like doctors and nurse’s sanitation workers are also struggling to protect the nation and performing in a similar feat. The only difference is that the sanitation workers have always been socially distanced from the rest of society and stigmatized as untouchable.

This paper summarises bio-medical waste-related threat to sanitation workers and waste pickers during the collection of waste. Face masks used by the quarantine patients and general public could be the sources of infection for the sanitation workers. Critically discussed the Bio-medical Waste Management Rules 2016 and its amendments to the collection generated from COVID-19 patients and health-care staff.

Bio-medical waste, COVID-19, Urban sanitation workers, Waste Management Rules NIL 2021-06-24 Popular Article Lipi Ghosh

Lipi Ghosh

Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 088), India

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659 1731817296 Biotica Research Today YMD of Mung Bean: Integrated Approaches and Management Opportunities Agriculture 519-521

Yellow mosaic disease (YMD) is still a major constraint to mungbean production around the world, and controlling this deadly disease remains the most difficult task. Using advanced molecular approaches to characterise YMD resistance during plant-virus interactions, a comprehensive network of pathogen survival, disease severity, and plant response to pathogens has been revealed. Thus, finding ways to manage YMD, such as developing resistant mungbean yellow mosaic virus (MYMV) varieties, is a top research priority for the mungbean production to achieve the goal of global food safety and security. This article summarizes the role of begomoviruses, its genomic components, vector whiteflies, and implications of various management practices including the use of resistance sources, the primary source of inoculum and vector management, are discussed. Finally, the prospects of employing gene editing using CRISPR/Cas9 are also highlighted.

Begomo virus, CRISPR/Cas9, Food safety, Integrated management NIL 2021-06-24 Popular Article Boggala Vajramma, Dori Bhavana and Mamidi Akshay

Boggala Vajramma*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, MPKV, Rahuri, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra (413 722), India

Dori Bhavana

Dept. of Entomology, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad District, Telangana (500 030), India

Mamidi Akshay

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad District, Telangana (500 030), India

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660 1731817652 Biotica Research Today Soil Health Assessment and Management: Role in Crop Production Agriculture 522-525

The potential of good soil to support agricultural production system by regulating air, hydrological and ecosystem cycles makes it an essential living resource for the world. Crop production is influenced by soil's interconnected physical, chemical and biological health, many of which are affected by soil management strategies. The foundation for profitable, productive, environmentally sound agricultural systems is healthy soils. Nutrient imbalances in soil due to excessive and under fertilization, soil pollution, and soil loss processes; all of which are becoming more widespread in developing countries. It leads negative effects on soil health and crop quality. A healthy soil helps to reduce climate change by maintaining or increasing its carbon content. Management of soil health is to feed the growing population across the world and also for maintaining ecosystem services.

Crop productivity, Nutrient management, Soil health, Soil organic matter NIL 2021-06-25 Popular Article M. K. Meena, M. L. Dotaniya, M. D. Meena, Harvir Singh and C. K. Dotaniya

M. K. Meena*

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

M. L. Dotaniya

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

M. D. Meena

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

Harvir Singh

ICAR- Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

C. K. Dotaniya

Dept. of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry, SKRAU, Bikaner, Rajasthan (334 006), India

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661 1731818047 Biotica Research Today Integrated Pest Management of Leaf miner, Aproaerema modicella in Groundnut Ecosystem Agriculture 526-527

Groundnut (Arachis hypogeae L., Fabaceae) is the major oilseed crop. It is a legume crop cultivated mainly for its edible seeds. It is a valuable cash crop for millions of small scale farmers. In India groundnut is a principal oilseed crop which has high nutritional value. Seeds are rich source of edible cooking oil (43-55%), protein (25-28%), vitamins E, K and B. Byproduct groundnut cake is used as animal feed. Groundnut is grown in India on an area of 5.98 million hectare with a production of 4.98 million tonnes of pod per annum with an average productivity of 860 kg/ha. The groundnut leaf miner Aproaerema modicella, causes more than 50% yield loss. Newly hatched green caterpillar made short blisters like mines into leaflets and feed on the mesophyll layer of leaf tissues which results in brownish dried up patches. Later instar larva web the leaflets together and feed on the greenish tissues by remaining inside.

Aproaerema modicella, Groundnut, Integrated pest management, Rainfed crop NIL 2021-06-25 Popular Article Muthu R. and A. Yogapriya

Muthu R.

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

A. Yogapriya*

Dept. of Entomology, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu (608 002), India

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662 1731846988 Biotica Research Today Potential Use of Urea Briquettes-Diammonium Phosphate Fertilizer for Rice Crop Agriculture 528-530

Urea briquettes containing diammonium phosphate (UB-DAP) can be cost effectively produced using a portable fertilizer briquetter on a small scale (200 kg h-1) at the village level and at a price affordable by small rice farmers. Their improved management consists of hand placement of properly sized (weight) UB-DAP (N:P = 4:1) per briquette for every four rice hills, and at 7-10 cm soil depth, on the day of or the day after transplanting using modified 20 × 20 cm spacing (25 hills m-2). This management is simple to adopt, saves up to 50% of the labour normally required for its conventional hand placement, and helps to reduce the lag period of spatial non-availability of DAP-P to the rice plants. The fertilizer use offers women farmers a unique opportunity to play an important role in increasing rice productivity.

Diammonium phosphate, NP fertilizer, Transplanted rice, Urea briquettes NIL 2021-06-26 Popular Article Sunil B. H., Lal Chand Malav and Sudhakara N. R.

Sunil B. H.*

ICAR- National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 033), India

Lal Chand Malav

ICAR- National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 033), India

Sudhakara N. R.

ICAR- Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (190 007), India

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663 1731847476 Biotica Research Today An Important Neuropteran Predator: Chrysoperla carnea - A Brief Note Agriculture 531-533

Among the different natural enemies reported, Neuropterans are important, out of which Chrysopid predators are of higher potential due to their higher predatory efficiency and host specific association. Other important Neuropteran predators are the large and cosmopolitan families such as Chrysopidae (green lacewings), Hemerobiidae (brown lacewings), and Coniopterygidae (dusty wings), but notable predators are also found in the smaller families of Raphidioptera, Inocelliidae (snakefies), and Raphidiidae (snakefies).

Chrysopidae, Green lacewing, Natural enemies, Predator NIL 2021-06-26 Popular Article Ipsita Samal and Bhupen Kumar Sahu

Ipsita Samal*

Dept. of Agriculture, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

Bhupen Kumar Sahu

Dept. of Sericulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

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664 1731848246 Biotica Research Today Developing Low Cost Hydrogel Technology for Improving Soil Moisture and Agricultural Productivity Agriculture 534-537

Hydrogels are cross-linked hydrophilic polymer structures that absorb large amounts of water. Anionic groups present in the cross-linked hydrogels allow hydrogen bonding within the network which helps in absorbing water. The application of hydrogel in arid and semi-arid regions improve soil properties, increases the water holding capacity of the soil, enhance of the soil water retention, improving irrigation efficiency, increasing the growth of various crops, and enhancement water productivity of the crop. Implementing proper management practices in agriculture to maintain soil moisture and increase water holding capacity is considered as one of the ways to save water. Hydrogel can swell to absorb huge volume of water or aqueous solution. This property has lead to many practical applications of these new materials in agriculture for improving water retention of soils and the water supply of plants. Hydrogel is emerging as a low cost technology for improving agricultural productivity by conserving soil-moisture.

Cross-linked, Hydrogel, Soil moisture, Water holding capacity NIL 2021-06-27 Popular Article Shaon Kumar Das and Ezekiel Khawas Bhujel

Shaon Kumar Das*

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India

Ezekiel Khawas Bhujel

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim (737 102), India

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665 1731848559 Biotica Research Today Biology and Management of Brinjal Shoot and Fruit Borer Agriculture 538-540

Brinjal (Solanum melongena Linnaeus) or eggplant comes under the crop family Solanaceae (Nightshade) and it is native to Indian sub-continent. Brinjal is the most popular and principle vegetable crop regarded as the “King of Vegetables”. India is the second largest producer of brinjal in the world next to China. Among the insect pests of brinjal, Shoot and fruit borer, occurred on young tender shoots, the growing point and wilted dropping shoot, which ultimately withers and dries always. Usually oviposition occurs at night time. Newly hatched larva bores into the petioles, midrib of large leaves and young tender shoots during vegetative stage but during reproductive phase larvae bores into the flower buds and also through the calyx it enters to the fruit. Infestation starts few weeks after transplanting. Large circular holes seen on the fruits are the exit holes. Such fruits loose market value and are unfit for human consumption.

Brinjal, Fruit borer, Management, Shoot NIL 2021-06-27 Popular Article M. M. Deshmukh, N. V. Bhagas and S. S. Muley

M. M. Deshmukh*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, CSMSS, Kanchanwadi, Aurangabad, Maharashtra (431 011), India

N. V. Bhagas

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, CSMSS, Kanchanwadi, Aurangabad, Maharashtra (431 011), India

S. S. Muley

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, CSMSS, Kanchanwadi, Aurangabad, Maharashtra (431 011), India

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666 1731849076 Biotica Research Today Fraudulent in Fish and Fisheries Products: An Overview Agriculture 541-543

Seafood fraud generally practices by misleading the consumers about seafood to increase economic profits. Fish and fisheries products fraud always have negative impacts on species conservation efforts as well as on public health. Fraud in seafood products is a very widespread issue and ranked among the top food fraud product categories. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) found in a recent investigation that about one-third of all fish and seafood products around the world are mislabeled and fraudulent practices have been detected in seafood value chain management. So combating seafood fraudulent is a complex task that requires the strengthening of national food regulatory programs along with the development of effective, science-based traceability systems and improved methods. Therefore, the present study highlighted the recent issues of seafood fraud in supply chain management and give an insight into the importance of product authenticity and traceability from raw material to the final seafood products.

Fraudulent, Human health, Seafood, Traceability NIL 2021-06-28 Popular Article Rupali Das, Martin Xavier K. A. and Subal Kumar Ghosh

Rupali Das*

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Martin Xavier K. A.

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Subal Kumar Ghosh

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology (School of Fisheries), Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha (761 211), India

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667 1731849474 Biotica Research Today Role of Food to Fight against Covid-19 Agriculture 544-546

Public health agencies recommendation for- mask-wearing, physical distancing, hand-washing, avoiding large gatherings, and limiting travel has to be followed for Covid-19 management. Foods can boost immunity and provide as shield to fight Covid-19. Foods enriched with vitamin C, Vitamin D, zinc, polyphenol, curcumin Quercetin etc. are promising to improve human health against Covid-19. Earlier doctors observed people suffering with frequent upper respiratory infections, and serious chronic inflammatory conditions, who a can overcome these health issues in part by increasing fresh food consumption and decreasing their intake of refined sugar and processed food. Poor nutrition causes immune function impairment, which can be reversed by repleting nutrients. There is a huge role for the clinical use of food as medicine and that all of us could benefit from blending the practice of home cooking with the science of medicine.

Curcumin, Quercetin, Polyphenol, Zinc NIL 2021-06-28 Popular Article Shatabhisa Sarkar and Joy Kumar Dey

Shatabhisa Sarkar*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sepahijala, CAU (I), Latiacherra, Tripura (799 102), India

Joy Kumar Dey

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sepahijala, CAU (I), Latiacherra, Tripura (799 102), India

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668 1731850252 Biotica Research Today 3D Food Printing: An Emerging Technology in Food Production Processes Agriculture 550-552

Food industries are constantly emerging with new innovation of technologies, one innovative technology which came to existence is 3D food printing. Here liquid, semi solid indigents are extruded or deposited on the surface along with some binders to create unique shape and size of beautiful crafted 3D foods. Many commercial industries and chef are taking up this technology to create customized products and gourmet meals. 3D printing foods are designed object into thin layers. The designed template is controlled by robotics system which helps to create the 3D food. Robotics system layers the ingredients from bottom to up and these layers construct the 3D food. The use of 3D printing taken food processing innovation to new heights. It enables to design nutrient-tailored food to accurately measured ingredient. 3D food printing is used in various hotel to create gourmet meals.

3D food printing, Manufacturing industries, Robotics system NIL 2021-06-29 Popular Article Shatabhisa Sarkar and Joy Kumar Dey

Shatabhisa Sarkar*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sepahijala, CAU (I), Latiacherra, Tripura (799 102), India

Joy Kumar Dey

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sepahijala, CAU (I), Latiacherra, Tripura (799 102), India

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669 1731851687 Biotica Research Today July (2021) ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) - A Splash in Aquaculture Agriculture 553-555

Aquaculture is a fast-growing, highly complex sector with many farmed species under many production systems in different aquatic environments. This complexity can put a strain on shaping a more sustainable aquaculture system, as many issues may affect environmental and production effectiveness. With the continuous development of science and technology, intelligence and informatization in aquaculture, it is easy to face problems. Today it has become a new trend. Smart aquaculture cannot only realize real-time monitoring, prediction, warning, and risk control of the physical and chemical factors of the aquaculture environment but can also conduct real-time monitoring of the characteristics and behaviors of the fish, which infers with the changing environment.

Artificial intelligence, Real time monitoring, Robot, Camera NIL 2021-07-02 Popular Article Ezhilarasi V., Cherylantony, Mahadevi and Ahilan B.

Ezhilarasi V.*

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Ponneri, Thiruvallur, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Cherylantony

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Ponneri, Thiruvallur, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Mahadevi

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Ponneri, Thiruvallur, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Ahilan B.

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Ponneri, Thiruvallur, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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670 1731931599 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Organic Farming in Telangana - Scope and Opportunities Agriculture 556-559

The modern Agricultural practices led by green revolution technologies helped the country to achieve self sufficiency in food production, but, left with innumerable no. of problems like decline in factor productivity, environmental pollution and degradation, depletion of natural resources, emergence of micro-nutrient deficiencies and super weeds, increased cost of production, loss of biodiversity, increased emission of green house gases and climate change. Organic farming was found to be an eco-friendly practice to reverse the ill effects of modern Agriculture. The state of Telangana has formulated a favourable organic farming policy. In this article, the problems with modern Agriculture, scope and opportunities for organic farming in the Telangana were discussed.

Climate change, Factor productivity, Green revolution, Pollution NIL 2021-07-03 Popular Article A. V. Ramanjaneyulu, D. Swetha, N. Sainath and R. Jagadeeshwar

A. V. Ramanjaneyulu

Agricultural Research Station (Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

D. Swetha

Agricultural Research Station (Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

N. Sainath

Agricultural Research Station (Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

R. Jagadeeshwar

Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

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671 1731932382 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Socio-Economic Upliftment of Rural Women through Backyard Poultry Rearing by using Giriraja Birds Agriculture 563-565

A field level study was undertaken to evaluate efficiency of production performance of Giriraja and Desi birds in 25 farmers each 20 birds under backyard system of rearing in Salem district of Tamil Nadu state with respect to live weight at five months, age at first egg laying, annual egg production, fertility and hatchability percentage. The average live weight of Giriraja birds at 5 months was 2.250 kg which was higher than that of Desi birds (1.350 kg). Age at first egg laying 156 days in Girirja birds whereas the age at first egg laying in Desi birds was 171 days The annual egg production was 192 eggs in Giriraja and 86 eggs in Desi birds. Moreover, the average weight of chicks of Giriraja and Desi birds at day old age observed was 43 g and 38 g respectively. Performance of Giriraja under backyard system of rearing was found satisfactory and the birds are well adapted to local agro-climatic condition.

Backyard poultry rearing, Desi chicken, Egg production, Giriraja chicken NIL 2021-07-05 Success story P. Chitra

P. Chitra

Dept. of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Agricultural College & Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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672 1731932628 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Sous-vide: A Modern Cook-Chill Technique in Seafood Packaging Agriculture 566-569

From heat treatment to vacuum packaging, the Sous-vide method provides good taste, aroma, texture, and nutritionally valuable food products under controlled temperature with an increase in shelflife compared to conventional cooking methods. In addition to essential vitamins and minerals, seafood is a rich source of PUFA (Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids). With this cooking technique, the nutrient quality of such foods can be almost fully retained and it can meet the consumers' preference for healthy and safe foods. Therefore, the application of such technology is increased day by day mainly in the catering industry. This article mainly highlights the above emerging technology and discussed its merits and demerits in seafood packaging.

Seafood, Shelflife, Sous-vide, Vacuum packaging NIL 2021-07-05 Popular Article Asik Ikbal, Supratim Chowdhury, Sayani Roy and Rajesh Mandal

Asik Ikbal*

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

Supratim Chowdhury

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

Sayani Roy

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

Rajesh Mandal

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

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673 1731933048 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Metabarcoding: A Molecular Phylogenetic Tool for Large scale, Rapid Assessment of Species Diversity Agriculture 570-572

Metabarcoding is a DNA barcoding process that allows for the simultaneous identification of several taxa within the same sample. This technique can be synonymously applied to environmental DNA (eDNA) barcoding. Primary difference of this technique and the barcoding is that metabarcoding does not focus on one specific organism whereas it aims to determine species composition within a sample. Unlike DNA barcoding, metabarcoding makes use of Next Generation Sequencing approaches for rapid assessment of species diversity.

Biodiversity, Ecology, Metabarcoding, Phylogenetics NIL 2021-07-06 Popular Article Rajesh, S., Sudha, M., Varanavasiappan, M. and Jayabalakrishnan, R. M.

Rajesh, S.*

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Sudha, M.

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Varanavasiappan, M.

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Jayabalakrishnan, R. M.

Directorate of Natural Research Management, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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674 1732159977 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Protecting Tropical Tasar Sericulture Farmers from Covid-19 Agriculture 573-574

During the present Covid-19 situations, the tasar sericulture farmers are involved in rearing tasar silkworm on plantations. Hence, in order to contain the spread of this disease which is an infectious and spreads primarily through droplets, the farmers have to take measures to safeguard themselves along with following standard field hygienic measures. Herein discussed the measures ensure safeguarding and protecting farmers from COVID-19 and thus help to contain the spread of this disease.

Covid-19, Farmer, Hygiene, Tasar NIL 2021-08-06 Popular Article Hasansab Nadaf, Chandrashekharaiah M., Vishaka G. V. and M. S. Rathore

Hasansab Nadaf*

Basic Tasar Silkworm Seed Organisation (BTSSO), Central Silk Board, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh (495 112), India

Chandrashekharaiah M.

Basic Tasar Silkworm Seed Organisation (BTSSO), Central Silk Board, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh (495 112), India

Vishaka G. V.

Basic Tasar Silkworm Seed Organisation (BTSSO), Central Silk Board, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh (495 112), India

M. S. Rathore

Basic Tasar Silkworm Seed Organisation (BTSSO), Central Silk Board, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh (495 112), India

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675 1732160359 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Integrated Pest Management Strategies of Ginger: A New Experience Agriculture 575-576

Ginger, Zingiber officinale is a perennial root crop that is cultivated in almost all parts of India. The crop is commercially grown for its aroma, and its rhizomes are used both as a spice as well as for medicinal purposes. A number of limiting factors were reported in production and productivity but one of the major constraints in healthy ginger cultivation and storage due to the activity of many key pests in the field as well as in storage. It is also rife with pests which include soft rot, yellows bacterial wilt, leaf spot, storage rot, root-knot nematodes, shoot borer, rhizome scale, pigweed and swine cress, etc. The purpose of this study is to focus on eco-friendly, environmentally safe, economically viable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, which can minimize the level of infestation and enhance the farmer income.

Ginger, IPM, Pest, Spice NIL 2021-08-07 Popular Article Mukesh Sehgal, Meenakshi Malik and Ardhendu Chakraborty

Mukesh Sehgal*

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Meenakshi Malik

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Ardhendu Chakraborty

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chebri, Khowai, Tripura (799 207), India

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676 1732161091 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Biofloc: Floc Types and Their Importance in Aquaculture Agriculture 581-583

Biofloc is an emerging alternative system to recycle and reuse the nutrients in the aquaculture system. The sustainable approach of such a system depends on the size of the floc and its properties in the culture system, mainly consist of the beneficial heterotrophic microbial community. Therefore, the microorganism maintains the water quality by maintaining the uptake of nitrogen compounds and increases the nutrient availability in the culture which reduces the feed conversion ratio and reduces the feed cost. The article discusses the properties of floc and its types in the culture system, in brief.

Aquaculture, Biofloc, Microorganism, Nutrient NIL 2021-08-09 Popular Article Nethaji, M., Ahilan, B., Ravaneswaran, K., Tamilarasu, A., Mahadevi, N. and Somu Sunder Lingam, R.

Nethaji, M.*

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu, Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Ahilan, B.

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu, Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Ravaneswaran, K.

ARTP, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu, Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Tamilarasu, A.

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu, Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Mahadevi, N.

ARFF, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu, Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Somu Sunder Lingam, R.

Krishnagiri-Barur Centre for Sustainable Aquaculture, Barur, Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu, Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (635 201), India

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677 1732161629 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Bio-Ecology and Management of Jassid, Amrasca devastans (Dist.) in Bhendi Agriculture 584-587

Bhendi (Abelmoschus esculentus), is an important vegetable crop grown throughout the year in India. The edible fruits has good source of vitamins A and B, proteins and minerals. Several abiotic and biotic factors are limiting factor on the yield of the crop to attain the maximum potential yield. Among the biotic factors, insect pests are one of the major problem resulted in considerable economic loss. The crop is attacked by several types of insect pests viz., sucking insects, chewing insects and soil insects. Among them, the sucking pest jassid, Amrasca devastans (Dist.) is most serious, causing substantial reduction in crop growth and development. It occurs throughout the year and resulted in significant yield loss. Critical analysis on its identification, biology, bio-ecology, damage symptoms and alternate hosts will facilitate developing better management strategies against the insect pest.

Amrasca devastans, Bhendi, Jassid, Management NIL 2021-08-10 Popular Article M. Chandrasekaran, R. P. Soundararajan and U. Pirithiraj

M. Chandrasekaran

Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

R. P. Soundararajan*

Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

U. Pirithiraj

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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678 1732166041 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Castor Fusarium Wilt: A Major Threat to Castor Production in India and Its Management Agriculture 588-590

Castor is an important non-edible oilseed crop with diverse industrial value. India is a major producer of castor in the world. However, the productivity is low especially in the rainfed regions due to the incidence of pests and diseases. Fusarium wilt is the most destructive seed and soil borne disease in castor. The disease is seen in all the major castor growing states in India and can cause yield losses up to 80%. Though several management methods are available, host plant resistance is the most effective approach to manage the disease. Significant progress in identification of resistant sources and development of wilt resistant cultivars has been made in the past three decades. However, breakdown of resistance to wilt has been observed necessitating the development of durable resistance. In this article, the problems with castor production, incidence of wilt, management strategies and future outlook have been discussed.

Castor, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ricini, Fusarium wilt, Resistance NIL 2021-08-11 Popular Article V. Ramya, S. Ameer Basha and P. Bindu Priya

V. Ramya*

College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

S. Ameer Basha

College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

P. Bindu Priya

Agricultural College, Palem, Nagarkurnool, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (509 215), India

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679 1732166515 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Enotomopathogenic Fungi: An Efficient Biological Control Agent for Insects Inhabitants Management Agriculture 595-597

In agriculture, there is a rising need for less chemical fertiliser, as well as improved pesticide resistance, has fuelled the growth of alternative insect-pest control methods. Microbial biocontrol agents (MBCAs) are an appealing alternative to conventional pesticides. Entomopathogenic Fungi are natural enemies that decimate insect populations while presenting no threat to public health and the surroundings. They are among the most effective biocontrol agents. They have a broad host range and the ability to manage both saps sucking insects as well as pests with mouthparts of biting and chewing type due to their pathogenicity pathway. However, they only make up a small part of the total pesticide business. This study focuses on the latest achievements of Entomopathogenic Fungi, including their potential mechanisms, plan of action to increase our understanding of insect pest biological control.

Beauveria bassiana, Biocontrol agents, Entomopathogenic Fungi, Nomuraea rileyi NIL 2021-08-15 Popular Article Debarshi Mahato and Pritendra Narayan Paikaray

Debarshi Mahato*

Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha O Anusandhan University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Pritendra Narayan Paikaray

Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha O Anusandhan University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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680 1732166911 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Scientific Cultivation of Sweet Flag (Achorus calamus L.) under Wetland Ecosystem of North Bihar Agriculture 598-601

Sweet flag (Acorus calamus L.), is one of the most important aquatic medicinal plants grown in India. It is an important crop of family Achoraceae but recently placed in family Araceae. Average sweet flag production is 1.6 ton of rhizome (dry) acre-1 annually in India. Nowadays, it is being used in medicine for alleviating rheumatic pain and illness and used as an aphrodisiac as it contain some important amino acids and flavonoid compound. The essential oil of A. calamus was found to be effective against storage pest and root knot nematode larvae. With the recent agro techniques a fertilizer dose of N:P:K @ 45:15:30 kg acre-1 and FYM @ 2-3.0 t acre-1 resulting in higher yield. Spraying of ZnSO4 2-3% at the young stage significantly increased the rhizome production. The maximum fresh yield is of 40.0 Q acre-1 fresh and cleaned rhizome was obtained from Tumkur-1 cultivar, which was introduced from Karnataka. Dry rhizome yield is 16.0 Q/acre resulting in i.e., B:C ratio of 1.63:1 under the wetland ecosystem of North Bihar.

B:C ratio, Cultivars, Fertilizer, Sweet flag NIL 2021-08-16 Popular Article B. R. Jana

B. R. Jana

ICAR- RCER, Research Centre on Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

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681 1732167154 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Transformation of Barren Terrace to A Lively Organic Roof Top Vegetable Garden – A Woman Farmer Success Story Agriculture 602-604

Rooftop vegetable farming can help to meet food demand by supplying fresh and hygienic vegetables, reducing household expenditure for buying vegetable, creating healthy atmosphere by improving air quality and absorbing carbon from air and lessening the impact of climate change. The present case was documented for Roof Top Vegetable Garden adopted by a farm woman under the technical guidance of KVK, Namakkal at Komarapalayam of Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu. She saved Rs. 50.00 daily towards purchase of vegetables. Totally she saved Rs. 1500.00 / month and through sale of excess vegetables.

Chemical-free Vegetables, Growing media, Organic Vegetables, Roof Top Vegetable Garden NIL 2021-08-18 Success story Sharmila Bharathi C.

Sharmila Bharathi C.

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Veterinary College and Research Institute Campus, TANUVAS, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu (637 002), India

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682 1732169144 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Makhana: A Nutritious and Fabulous Functional Food Agriculture 605-607

Apart from basic nutrition, functional foods have a potentially positive effect on health and vigour to the human body. Medicinal super food makhana is highly nutritious and rich in proteins (10.5%) and fibre (0.5%) and low in fat (0.1%). About 100 grams of makhana gives around 362.0 calories of energy. It is a fair source of calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus and micronutrients like Fe, Zn and Cu. The presence of a few flavonoids (quercetin and kaempferol) in moderate and vitamins in less quantity make makhana a unique food. Makhana seeds have the ability to prevent inflammation, cardiovascular diseases and BP (blood pressure) and diabetes. Gorgon nuts i.e., makhana help to strengthen the spleen and kidneys and cure jaundice. Makhana pop is a fancy diet, more than a nutritional importance and also use in regional rituals. It is a very useful food that can be consumed during Covid-19 spread, as it works as immune booster, stress remover and helps in remain medically fit.

Functional Food, Health, Makhana, Nutrition NIL 2021-08-19 Popular Article B. R. Jana, Ujjwal Kumar, I. S. Singh and Anuradha Srivastava

B. R. Jana*

ICAR-RCER, Research Centre on Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

Ujjwal Kumar

ICAR-RCER, ICAR Parishar, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

I. S. Singh

ICAR-RCER, Research Centre on Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

Anuradha Srivastava

Directorate of Mushroom Research (ICAR), Kandaghat, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 213), India

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683 1732169502 Biotica Research Today July (2021) The Roles of Remote Sensing in Aquaculture Site-Selection Agriculture 608-611

Site selection for aquaculture production is a challenging task that entails identifying areas that are socially, economically, and environmentally suitable as well as areas that are appropriate for aquaculture. Remote sensing uses electromagnetic or acoustic waves released by the targets of interest to acquire data/ information about objects/ substances that are not in direct contact with the sensor. Geographic information systems and remote sensing technologies, which allow for the integration and analysis of spatial and attribute data from a variety of sources, have been commonly used to find suitable locations for aquaculture. This article described a summary of the roles of remote sensing in aquaculture site selection.

Acoustic waves, Aquaculture, Remote sensing, Site selection NIL 2021-08-20 Popular Article Rinkesh N. Wanjari, Karankumar K. Ramteke and Dhanalakshmi M.

Rinkesh N. Wanjari

SKUAST-K, Division of Fisheries Resource Management (FRM), Faculty of Fisheries, Rangil, Ganderbal, Jammu & Kashmir (190 006), India

Karankumar K. Ramteke*

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Dhanalakshmi M.

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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684 1732170867 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Pomegranate Extracts as an Antioxidant in Fishery Products Agriculture 614-616

Fish and fishery products always have a high demand in the world market. In last few years, there is an increasing knowledge on the importance of n-3 PUFA in human physiology among people, and fish have high contents of this type of fatty acids and this gives more importance of fishery products in human health and nutrition. One of the major drawbacks of these products is oxidation, and it leads to non-desirable off-flavour. There are many synthetic antioxidants are used to retard the oxidation in fishery products but the use of some synthetic antioxidants are restricted in many countries due to the undesirable health effects. Alternatively the use of natural antioxidants instead of synthetic compounds has great importance and many plant extracts have been used as natural antioxidants and pomegranate extracts are one among them. Pomegranate extracts at the higher concentration have the potential antioxidant effect equal to the synthetic antioxidant.

Fishery product, Natural antioxidant, Oxidation, Pomegranate NIL 2021-08-22 Popular Article Sarojini A. and Gajendra

Sarojini A.*

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Gajendra

College of Fisheries, KVAFSU, Mangaluru, Karnataka (575 002), India

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685 1732248343 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Successful Cultivation of Organic Onion using Eco-Friendly Insect Traps in Manipur Agriculture 617-619

Sinakeithei is a tribal village in Ukhrul district of Manipur and is infamous for the cultivation of poppy and ganja. In spite of many schemes sponsored by the State and Central Govt. to rehabilitate the poppy and ganja farmers, it is hard task to convince and wean all the farmers from this highly remunerative although illegal cultivation. The introduction and use of improved and eco-friendly technology for the cultivation of improved variety of onion variety, Bhima Super considerably increased the farmer’s income. A woman farmer, R. Tamreichon, who is practicing organic farming, could gain a net profit of around Rs. 70,000.00 by adopting the improved technology for the management of insect pests and diseases.

Farmer, Insect, Onion, Technology NIL 2021-07-23 Success story Romila Akoijam, Arati Ningombam and Aruna Beemrote

Romila Akoijam*

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat, Imphal, Manipur (795 004), India

Arati Ningombam

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat, Imphal, Manipur (795 004), India

Aruna Beemrote

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat, Imphal, Manipur (795 004), India

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686 1732248804 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Factors and Solutions for Declining Mithun Population in Nagaland and Manipur: A Perspective Agriculture 620-623

Mithun (Bos frontalis) is a rare bovine species solely found in the hilly forests of Northeast India. In the previous livestock census (2019), a decline of 33.6% and 10.5% in mithun population was recorded in Nagaland and Manipur, respectively. Over the past few years, increased deforestation, unregulated Jhum farming, resurfacing of outbreaks of foot and mouth disease (FMD), frequent attacks of wild dogs on mithun calves and indiscriminate slaughtering of mithun for table purpose might be attributed to a decline in mithun population. Lack of bankable schemes and no regular income from mithun farming have further aggravated the problem. The need of time is to frame legislative laws to check indiscriminate slaughter of elite mithuns, formulate National Mithun Breeding Policy, develop insurance policies for mithun and bring free-ranging mithun under semi-intensive system. Lastly, better vaccination coverage against FMD in mithun might serve as one of the useful tools in mithun conservation.

Deforestation, Manipur, Mithun, Nagaland NIL 2021-07-23 Popular Article Vivek Joshi, Kamni Paia Biam and M. H. Khan

Vivek Joshi*

ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Kamni Paia Biam

ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

M. H. Khan

ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

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687 1732249196 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Diseases of Rice and Their Management Agriculture 624-626

Rice is a staple food crop for about 65% of the Indian population, contributing 40% of total food grain production, thus occupies a pivotal role in the food and livelihood security of people. The major pathogens such as fungi, bacteria and virus diseases which affect the crop growth as well as yield. The impact of these diseases is very devastating and widespread in different rice growing areas. Both Chemical as well as biological management are important for favored, susceptible rice cultivars.

Disease, Integrated disease management, Rice, Symptoms NIL 2021-07-24 Popular Article Brindhadevi S., Velprabakaran S., Niranjanadevi J., Soban babu G. and Devi Shanthini V.

Brindhadevi S.*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

Velprabakaran S.

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

Niranjanadevi J.

Dept. of Biotechnology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

Soban babu G.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

Devi Shanthini V.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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688 1732249670 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Biochar and Its Scope in Nutrient, Pest and Disease Management in Sugarcane Agriculture 627-630

Biochar is a black, highly porous, and finely grained charcoal-like substance obtained from any biomass by the process of pyrolysis. Conversion of Biomass into biochar is considered as very important process not only for environmental safety concern and also it has a crucial role in nutrient management in agriculture. Sugarcane is one of the important crops and produces abundant biomass in the form of trashes, bagasse and other residue which are carbon rich and is very much suitable for biochar production. So the biochar produced locally in field from by-products of sugarcane can be decisively used for the improvement of soil health and can also be tested for the management of various pests and diseases occurring in sugarcane. It will also be a one of the contributing factors for the improvement of livelihood security in rural areas.

Biomass, Plant protection, Soil health, Sugarcane NIL 2021-07-25 Popular Article R. Gopi, Mahendran B., Nisha M., Nithya K. and Mahesh P.

R. Gopi*

ICAR- Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Research Centre, Kannur, Kerala (670 002), India

Mahendran B.

ICAR- Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Research Centre, Kannur, Kerala (670 002), India

Nisha M.1

1ICAR- Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Research Centre, Kannur, Kerala (670 002), India

Nithya K.

ICAR- Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 007), India

Mahesh P.

ICAR- Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 007), India

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689 1732250560 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Diseases of Coconut and It’s Management Agriculture 631-633

Coconut is one of the important diseases causing severe yield loss. The disease is found to occur in southern parts of India in coconut growing areas such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The symptoms are manifested in the form of yellowing, withering and drooping of the outer fronds and oozing out reddish brown liquid from the base of the trunk. If the infected trees are left uncared, it becomes major threat to coconut, resulted in death of the palm. Hence, it is highly imperative to adopt suitable management strategy at the early stage itself. The disease can be effectively contained by integrating cultural, biological and chemical methods.

Chemical control, Coconut, Integrated disease management, Symptoms NIL 2021-07-26 Popular Article Brindhadevi S., Soban Babu G., Devi Shanthini V., Chandrika R. and Ruppavalli M. V. R.

Brindhadevi S.*

Dept. of Plant pathology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

Soban Babu G.

Dept. of Plant pathology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

Devi Shanthini V.

Dept. of Plant pathology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

Chandrika R.

Dept. of Plant pathology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

Ruppavalli M. V. R.

Dept. of Plant pathology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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690 1732250955 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Importance of Sialic Acid Receptor and RIG-I in Innate Immune Response of Poultry Agriculture 634-636

Avian influenza is a viral infection found in domestic poultry and a wide range of other birds. Wild waterfowl and shorebirds are often asymptomatic carriers. RIG-I (retinoic acid-inducible gene I) and Toll like Receptors (TLRs) are well expressed in water fowls. In contract to this RIG-I gene were absent in chicken genome and makes the poultry more susceptible. Avian influenza outbreaks occur in poultry, depopulation (stamping out) of infected flocks is carried out with biosecurity measures.

Innate immune response, Poultry, RIG-I, Sialic Acid NIL 2021-07-27 Popular Article A. Varun, T. Chandrasekar, K. Senthilkumar and Karu Pasupathy

A. Varun

Post Graduate Research Institute in Animal Sciences (PGRIAS), TANUVAS, Kattupakkam, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu (603 203), India

T. Chandrasekar*

Veterinary College and Research Institute (VC&RI), TANUVAS, Theni, Tamil Nadu (625 602), India

K. Senthilkumar

Post Graduate Research Institute in Animal Sciences (PGRIAS), TANUVAS, Kattupakkam, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu (603 203), India

Karu Pasupathy

Post Graduate Research Institute in Animal Sciences (PGRIAS), TANUVAS, Kattupakkam, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu (603 203), India

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691 1732251959 Biotica Research Today July (2021) DNA Authentication of Fish Products: A Tool to Reveal the Risk of Mislabeling/ Fraudulence Associated with Seafood Trade Agriculture 637-641

Mislabeling poses a threat to the sustainability of seafood supply chains, food integrity, the economy, public health, and consumers’ ethics and, can significantly affect conservation efforts. It is essential that these fraudulent and mislabeled fishes are to be revealed by PCR-based techniques. DNA Authentication is one of the effective tools and the mitochondrial Cytochrome c Oxidase subunit I gene is used to identify the mislabeling of commercially important fishes at a DNA level. Because this analysis provides strong support to detect fishes that are sold under the wrong name and fraudulent seafood products sold as deliberately substituted by low-value fishes instead of high-value fishes. It helps to prohibit the conserved fish species from the sold. This article highlighted the suitable method used to overcome mislabeling and fraudulence issues that occur in the seafood trade to create awareness to poor consumers and seafood traders.

DNA Authentication, DNA Barcoding, Mislabeled fishes, Seafood fraudulence NIL 2021-07-28 Popular Article R. Rajeshkannan, V. Alamelu, V. Vijayarahavan and S. Vimaladevi

R. Rajeshkannan*

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Off Yari Road, Andheri (West), Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

V. Alamelu

Dr. MGR. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

V. Vijayarahavan

Dr. MGR. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

S. Vimaladevi

Dr. MGR. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

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692 1732252506 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Water Pollution in Noyyal River Basin Agriculture 642-643

The effluent discharge into river Noyyal river basin was around 75,000 m3 to 1,00,000 m3 per day and it contains both natural and synthetic dyes, along with more than 150 chemicals, such as common salt, detergent, caustic soda and hydrogen peroxide are used to colour the textiles and the toxic wastes are contaminated the water bodies in and around the Tirupur cities and affected soil, water, air ecosystem. The possibilities of ground water contamination mainly due to the period of non-flow of the river and it shows the deteriorated quality of surface and ground water to arrest these type of contamination by the effective approach for cleaning up contaminated surface water as well as ground water through physical, chemical and biological treatment process and strongly adhere the pollution act and environmental legislations.

Common Effluent Treatment Plant, Noyyal River, Synthetic dyes, Textile NIL 2021-07-29 Popular Article R. Jayashree and R. Murugaragavan

R. Jayashree*

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

R. Murugaragavan

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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693 1732253352 Biotica Research Today July (2021) Provitamin-A Biofortified Golden Rice Approved for Commercial Cultivation in Philippines - A Breakthrough in Fighting Hidden Hunger Agriculture 648-650

More than three decades have passed since vitamin A deficiency (VAD) has been recognized as a severe public health concern, as white rice provides no micronutrients. This issue is particularly acute in countries where rice is the staple food. Golden rice is a public-sector product designed as an additional intervention for VAD, having one gene from maize and the other from a relatively common soil bacteria. The journey of golden rice from the laboratory to the field has taken a long time. It has been legally recognized as safe as food, feed, or processed form in four industrialized countries, while approval applications are pending for underdeveloped nations. In the Philippines, the Filipino farmers will be the first in the world who able to grow golden rice for daily consumption, which might potentially eliminate child malnutrition.

Commercial cultivation, Golden rice, Philippines, VAD NIL 2021-07-31 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Kailash Chandra Samal and Ambika Prasad Mishra

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Ambika Prasad Mishra

Dept. of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

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694 1732253811 Biotica Research Today Importance of Sulphur in Promoting Sustainable Agriculture: An overview Agriculture 651-654

Ashish Rai

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Parsauni East Champaran, Dr Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Bihar (845 429), India

Rahul Mishra

Division of Environmental Soil Science, ICAR- Indian Institute of Soil Science, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (462 038), India

Sumit Rai*

GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora, Uttarakhand (263 643), India

Plant Nutrient, Secondary Nutrient, Sustainable Agriculture, Sulphur NIL 2021-08-03 Popular Article Ashish Rai, Rahul Mishra and Sumit Rai

Ashish Rai

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Parsauni East Champaran, Dr Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Bihar (845 429), India

Rahul Mishra

Division of Environmental Soil Science, ICAR- Indian Institute of Soil Science, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (462 038), India

Sumit Rai*

GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora, Uttarakhand (263 643), India

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695 1732258177 Biotica Research Today Bamboo Orchid- A Multipurpose Garden Plant Agriculture 662-664

Bamboo orchid [Arundina graminifolia (D. Don) Hochr.] is a tall terrestrial orchid of South-East Asia bearing white to purple and grows well in full sun in tropical to subtropical climate. They are ideal loose flowers which are used in various rituals. Generally Bamboo orchid is used as a garden plant as focal point in lawn or home garden and can be used as grouping plants in parks, zoos, botanical gardens and landscape gardening. The rhizomes and roots of the plant are used in medicinal purposes.

Loose flowers, Rhizomes, Roots, Terrestrial NIL 2021-08-06 Popular Article L. C. De

L. C. De

ICAR- NRC for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

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696 1732258485 Biotica Research Today Microencapsulation of Fish Oil and It’s Different Encapsulation Materials Agriculture 665-667

Microencapsulation is a distinctive process that has been used not only to “convert” liquids to solids, but also to add functionalities or improved oxidative stability to ingredients. Fortifying foods with oils, particularly marine oils, is challenging due to their unpleasant taste, which could be overcome by applying the microencapsulation technique and masking the fishy taste. Its advantages include, masking the unpleasant flavours and odours of the microencapsulated elements; protecting them from oxidation and other unwanted reactions and thus improving the shelf life; controlled release of ingredients to improve the functionality of food additives and extending the application range of food ingredients. Microencapsulation can protect polyunsaturated fatty acids from light and heat damage, and retard their oxidation.

Encapsulation material, Fish oil, Microencapsulation, Oxidation NIL 2021-08-07 Popular Article Sarojini A., Gajendra, Vinothkumar L., Vignaesh D. and Manivannan M.

Sarojini A.*

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Gajendra

College of Fisheries, KVAFSU, Mangaluru, Karnataka (575 002), India

Vinothkumar L.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Vignaesh D.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Manivannan M.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

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697 1732335344 Biotica Research Today Amelioration of Salt Affected Soils for Improving Crop Yield Agriculture 668-670

The need to produce more food grain from limited natural resources grew as the world's population. The use of improved crop varieties increased production, but soil qualities and climatic occurrences limited it. Under these conditions, saline soils must be managed scientifically in order to increase food crop yield. The majority of soils require organic matter addition and crop agronomic management. Green manure, FYM, leaching, scraping, and the use of salinity-tolerant crops are all recommended. These soils have excellent soil structure but are constrained by high salt ion concentrations. By management, these soils are key sustainable options for enhancing crop yield in arid and semi arid regions of India.

Crop production, Nutrient dynamics, Problematic soil, Soil health NIL 2021-08-08 Popular Article P. Deewan, R. Verma, M. L. Dotaniya and C. K. Dotaniya

P. Deewan*

Dept. of Agronomy, ARSS, Gonera, Kotputali, Rajasthan (303 108), India

R. Verma

Dept. of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry, SKN COA, Jobner, Rajasthan (303 328), India

M. L. Dotaniya

ICAR- Directors of Rapeseed-Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan (321 303), India

C. K. Dotaniya

Dept. of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry, SKRAU, Bikaner, Rajasthan (334 006), India

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698 1732336697 Biotica Research Today Integrated Management Practices to Overcome Yield Loss in Coconut Agriculture 671-675

Coconut palm is an important plantation and oilseed crop of the tropics. A decline in production and productivity of established coconut gardens is attributed to numerous biotic and abiotic factors. Pencil point disorder, button shedding and barren nuts are a common problem in the coconut plantations. Integrated management practices can help to overcome these constraints and revive the productivity of the coconut palms.

Abiotic Stress, Coconut, Integrated management, Yield loss NIL 2021-08-09 Popular Article D. Rajakumar, S. Geethanjali, V. Sivakumar and H. P. Maheswarappa

D. Rajakumar*

Dept. of Agronomy, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam, Vallanad, Tamil Nadu (628 252), India

S. Geethanjali

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V. Sivakumar

Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

H. P. Maheswarappa

AICRP on Palms, ICAR-CPCRI, Kasaragod, Kerala (671 124), India

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699 1732337084 Biotica Research Today Marine Trash - A Grievous Menace in Near Future!! Agriculture 676-678

Any persistent, manufactured or processed solid material discarded, disposed of or abandoned in the marine and coastal environment is defined as Marine Trash. It consists of items that deliberately discarded in to the sea or rivers or on beaches have been made or used by people brought indirectly to the sea with rivers, accidental lost sewage, storm water or winds etc. This article mainly focus on different sources of marine trash, its impacts and the preventive measures to take up to save our ocean.

Impacts, Marine trash, Preventive measures, Recycle NIL 2021-08-10 Popular Article V. Lakshme Gayathre and M. Kalaiarasan

V. Lakshme Gayathre*

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

M. Kalaiarasan

Directorate of Incubation and Vocational Training in Fisheries, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (623 519), India

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700 1732337600 Biotica Research Today Wide Hybridisation - An Option for Improving Quality of Fruits in Plantation Crops Agriculture 679-682

Wild genetic resources are the potential provenance of desired genes for various characters of crop plants. Wide hybridization being an important plant breeding method has helped in expanding the gene pool of a crop when the desired variation is not sufficient or absent within the same gene pool. It plays a substantial role in transferring traits of interest like disease and insect resistance, improved quality, early growth, dwarfness, increased yield, abiotic stress tolerance in crop plants besides bringing changes in the mode of reproduction as well. The main barriers in wide hybridization occur as prezygotic and postzygotic barriers. Though fruits are considered as a significant component of a healthy diet, the sharp depletion in temperate fruits and fruit products has been marked in the past decades in the market. However, the barriers in the improvement of fruit crops can be overcome by using techniques involving distant crossing or wide hybridisation.

Fruit, Plantation crops, Quality, Wide hybridisation NIL 2021-09-10 Popular Article Likhit Patnaik, Kajal Kiran, Jyoti Prakash Sahoo and Kailash Chandra Samal

Likhit Patnaik*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kajal Kiran

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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701 1732338616 Biotica Research Today Development of AI Enabled Smart Feeding System for Aquaculture Farm – A State-of-Art Approach Agriculture 683-686

The aquaculture industry is a booming sector with huge potential but still faces the challenge of feeding an animal since it is an underwater culture where feeding requirement is more complex and tedious every time. If overfeeding happens, the ammonia level in the pond will increase, leading to culture animals' mortality, whereas underfeeding causes slow growth in animals. The primary issue still faced by Aquaculture sector is feeding pattern and its strategy. In other words, the smart Aqua feeders are an actual requirement for every aquaculture farm. In this paper, the design considerations and architecture of smart aquaculture feeders are suggested along with the application of state-of-the-art technologies viz., Machine learning, Artificial Intelligence, Machine vision, etc. This paper provides the detailed survey on the past works related to the feeding strategy and other aforementioned technology application in aquaculture. And, also the conceptual model was developed and its architecture was produced.

Artificial intelligence, Decision support system, Deep neural network, Smart Aquaculture feeders NIL 2021-08-11 Popular Article Pradeep Ramesh, Ayesha Jasmin S., Puja U. T., Dharani Shrree R. S. and Mohammad Tanveer

Pradeep Ramesh*

Dept. of Aquacultural Engineering, College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

Ayesha Jasmin S.

Dept. of Aquacultural Engineering, College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

Puja U. T.

Dept. of Aquacultural Engineering, College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

Dharani Shrree R. S.

Dept. of Aquacultural Engineering, College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

Mohammad Tanveer

Dept. of Aquacultural Engineering, College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

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702 1732339013 Biotica Research Today Scientific Cultivation of Low Chill Peach [Prunus persica (L) Batsch.] in North Eastern Plateau and Hill Regions Agriculture 687-690

The production of a temperate fruit crop is markedly influenced by the climate change effects. The winter chilling requirements vary with each cultivar to break the dormancy and resumption of flowering, fruiting and vegetative growth. Low chill cultivars of peach crops have been developed throughout the world for enhancing the production and area of cultivation from low mountain hill to plateau and some plains. Low chill peach cultivars were successfully cultivated from eastern plateau and hill region. A 40% pruning of one year shoots encourages flowering, after 1.5 months after fruit setting, CuSO4 (0.2%) and 20.0 ppm GA3 spraying to low chill temperate fruits leads to obtain desirable yield. At high temperatures, bacterial canker and fruit fly are the major problems prevailing in growing areas. Under Eastern plateau and hill region the cultivars Flordaprince, Prabhat, Shan-e-Punjab and Pratap performed better in terms of production. Thus, these cultivars are suggested for commercial orcharding.

Cultivars, Low Chill, Peach, Yield NIL 2021-08-15 Popular Article B. R. Jana

B. R. Jana

Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

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703 1732339985 Biotica Research Today An Overview of Acacia catechu Agriculture 691-693

Acacia catechu is commonly known as Khair or Kachu, which is widely used due to its medicinal properties in Asia and many other parts. The tree grows up to 15 meters tall and bark is dark brown with thorny branchlets. There is an excellent use of Acacia catechu in dermatology and sore throat. Recently, it has been reported that Acacia has antimycotic, hypoglycaemic activity. It is a multipurpose plant such as bark, leaves and wood of the plant possess high medicinal value. Conjunctivitis, Haemophytsis, Asthma, constant loose bowels, and many other diseases can be treated. The tree has restorative properties and is propagated through seed as well as through in vitro culture. It is used as fuel and produces high-quality charcoal along with can be used as fodder.

Katha, Leguminosae, Medicinal, Timber NIL 2021-08-17 Popular Article Sandeep Rout, Gyanaranjan Sahoo, Udit Nandan Mishra, Ashish Sheera and Ajay Kumar Prusty

Sandeep Rout*

Faculty of Agriculture, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

Gyanaranjan Sahoo

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Angul, Odisha (759 132), India

Udit Nandan Mishra

Faculty of Agriculture, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

Ashish Sheera

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Jammu, Chatha, Jammu and Kashmir (180 009), India

Ajay Kumar Prusty

M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Gajapati, Odisha (761 211), India

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704 1732340444 Biotica Research Today Gray Mold of Castor and Its Management Agriculture 694-695

Castor, a non-edible oilseed crop, has immense industrial value. India is the world’s largest producer of castor and meets most of the global demand of castor oil. Gray mold is among the most destructive disease of castor in India. The area under castor cultivation is continuously declining due to the incidence of gray mold, especially in the southern States of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Disease epidemics have been reported in erstwhile Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu states during 1985-1987, after which the gray mold started appearing year after year causing serious problems to castor farmers, thus limiting castor production in the country. This article provides an overview of the disease, etiology, symptoms, epidemiology, disease management and future outlook for gray mold disease in castor.

Botryotinia ricini, Castor, Gray mold, Ricinus communis L. NIL 2021-08-19 Popular Article V. Ramya, P. Bindu Priya, S. Ameer Basha and R. Sunitha Devi

V. Ramya*

College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

P. Bindu Priya

Agricultural College, Palem, Nagarkurnool, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (509 215), India

S. Ameer Basha

College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

R. Sunitha Devi

College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

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705 1732342601 Biotica Research Today Fruit Based Multi-Tier Cropping System: A Profitable Enterprise to Farmers of Eastern Plateau and Hill Regions Agriculture 696-699

The fruit based multi-tier cropping system is a self-sustainable system where solar energy, soil and environmental resources can be efficiently used. Solar energy can be harvested at different heights and cropping intensity is increased from unit area. The system consists of three main components viz. main crop, filler crop and inter crops which occupy three different tiers in space of the production system. Eastern plateau and hill region provide ample opportunity for the development of fruit based, particularly mango based multi-tier cropping system with economic benefits. Under NAIP, we developed a mango based 10.0 multi-tier cropping systems in eastern plateau and hill region. The study revealed that in 6th years of orchard development, the benefit reaches up to Rs. 73,684.00 with different interventions like guava and seasonal vegetables (peanut, brinjal, beans, Okra, chili) under a multitier cropping system.

Fruit crops, Income, Orchard, Plateau area NIL 2021-08-20 Popular Article B. R. Jana

B. R. Jana

ICAR-RCER, Research Centre for Makhana, Basudeopur, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

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706 1732342828 Biotica Research Today Multicut 10 Cent Fodder Production for Addressing Fodder Shortage in Small and Marginal Farmer Agriculture 700-702

Fodder crops play a vital role in agriculture since continuous supply of nutritious green fodder in sufficient quantity is basic requirement for livestock to cater milk production and also to maintain the health of the livestock. Bridge the huge gap between fodder availability and demand, especially for small and marginal farmer who maintain less numbers of cows and small ruminants. It is necessary to ensure initiation of strategies at grass root level for sustainable green fodder production even during summer period. 10 cent fodder model is one viable option available, once established small and marginal farmer can either maintain two cows or 8 small ruminents for uninterrupted supply of required green fodder to the animals round the year.

10 cent, Fodder production, Marginal farmer, Multicut NIL 2021-08-25 Popular Article R. Thangadurai, S. Monisha, S. Rengaraj, S. Jeevanandhan and C. Sivakumar

R. Thangadurai*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

S. Monisha

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

S. Rengaraj

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

S. Jeevanandhan

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

C. Sivakumar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

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707 1732343163 Biotica Research Today Management of Iron Deficiency Anaemia in Piglets Agriculture 703-705

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is the most prevalent deficiency disorder in piglets during early post-natal period leading to serious growth problems associated with mortality. Piglets have limited iron reserve which cannot meet the daily iron requirements and sow’s milk is also deficient in iron. In nature, when pigs grows as free range animal this additional iron requirement is met from soil. In concrete floor, this iron requirement becomes a critical factor for growth which needs to be supplemented. Without additional iron supplements the piglets develop anaemia within first 2-3 weeks of birth. Anaemia leads to poor immunity of animals, lower weight gains and in drastic cases death of the piglets which in turn leads to heavy economic losses in pig production. Supplementation with iron is a common practice for the treatment of IDA in piglets. The most commonly used method for preventing iron deficiency in piglets is parenteral iron injection.

Anaemia, Iron deficiency, Management, Piglets NIL 2021-08-26 Popular Article P. Chandrima Devi, Samir Das and Sourabh Deori

P. Chandrima Devi

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Samir Das

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Sourabh Deori*

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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708 1732343734 Biotica Research Today Culture Techniques of Polychaete Worms Agriculture 706-708

Aquaculture is a needed industry in the Indian agricultural sector to boost the Indian economy. A disease free healthy stock can be achieved by feeding appropriate live feeds. Polychaetes, are more recently used as live bait for sport angling and an ingredient in formulating aquaculture feeds for fish, crustaceans and other organisms. They extensively used in commercial shrimp hatcheries, fed by a brood stock were reported to have higher healthy fecundity. Knowledge on culture techniques of polychaete worms are framed out and it involves two phase. Phase I is development from prototrochophore larvae to nectochaete larvae and Phase II is development from nectochaete larvae to adult worms. The aquaculture industry stimulates fundamental research providing both support and infrastructures for improving the culture techniques of polychaete worms and reduce shortage of healthy broodstock diet in the aquaculture field.

Brooder diet, Hatchery, Live feed, Polychaete worms NIL 2021-08-27 Popular Article A. Anix Vivek Santhiya and C. Lloyd Chrispin

A. Anix Vivek Santhiya*

Dept. of Aquaculture, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

C. Lloyd Chrispin

Dept. of Fisheries Extension, Economics and Statistics, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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709 1732344225 Biotica Research Today Lameness: A Very Common Disorder in Pigs, Its Causes and Therapeutic Intervention Agriculture 709-713

Swine lameness with determinant factors of house and floor type, bedding, indoor farm management and seasons for all age group. The causes are many, namely genetic, congenital, physical insult, bacterial and viral infections, non-infectious causes fracture, myositis, leg weakness, tearing of muscle, porcine stress syndrome, toxicity and injury. Nutritional deficiency of vitamins and minerals can cause lameness. Lameness caused by arthritis, polyarthritis, fracture and fissure, apophyseolysis and epiphysiolysis, neuritis, paralysis, myositis, haematoma, traumatic injury, ostitis, periostitis, osteomyelitis, osteochrondrosis, ricket, osteomalacia and other conditions. The clinical signs of lameness are staggering gait, painful condition, laying down, sometimes swelling, haemorrahage on the floor injury cases, feet tapping, weight avoiding by legs, changed posture, vocalization, excitability, frequent micturition, defecation and eating unnatural objects. The success of treatment depends on the confirmative diagnosis. Diagnosis can be done on clinical signs, radiology, microbiology, post mortem lesions. Therapeutic intervention with anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatoid like medicine and deficiency supplements.

Lameness, Legpain, Swine, Therapy NIL 2021-08-29 Popular Article Dayamoy Mondal and Tapas Kumar Biswas

Dayamoy Mondal*

Eastern Regional Station, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, 37 Belgachia Road, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

Tapas Kumar Biswas

Eastern Regional Station, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, 37 Belgachia Road, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

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710 1732344776 Biotica Research Today Bt Cotton: Resistance to Helicoverpa armigera Agriculture 717-720

Bt cotton provides in built protection to cotton against lepidopteron pests (Helicoverpa), therefore production of cotton has been increased. Due to introduction of Bt cotton socio-economic status of farmers has improved. The control provided by Bt cottons approaches immunity. No survivors have been found in field studies. Bt cotton has revolutionized our ability to implement IPM in cotton and reduced our insecticide inputs by over 60%. Each year billions of dollars are spent worldwide on insect control in agriculture. Despite this expenditure, up to 40% of a crop can be lost to insect damage, particularly in developing countries. Helicoverpa armigera is a common major pest, causing epidemics resulting into calamity. H. armigera comes in more than one peak along with pink boll worm in all cotton growing zones. A number of insecticides effectively control these insects' pests but they have been proven to be hazardous to human health and environment.

Bt cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L., Helicoverpa armigera, IPM NIL 2021-08-31 Popular Article Alok Kumar Singh, Ujjwal Kumar Singh and Devendra Kumar

Alok Kumar Singh*

Dept. of Plant Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, ANDUA&T, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Ujjwal Kumar Singh

Dept. of Horticulture, KNIPSS, Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh (228 118), India

Devendra Kumar

Dept. of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Mangalayatan University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh (202 146), India

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711 1732505662 Biotica Research Today Transgenic Plants: Advantages and Disadvantages Agriculture 721-724

Crop's amendment to enhance their production was based on selection previous to the conception of transgenics. This assortment has been going on for thousands of years. By the year 2050, the world population may exceed ten billion. In some older centuries, food production will need to enhance at the same rate or more to comply with the needs of such an enormous number of people. So, there is a necessity of implying genetic techniques to upgrade crops over recent decades. Through the employ of transgenics, one can produce plants with preferred traits and even amplified yields. The transgenic crops are more capable of last longer and resist diseases and pests. Transgenic plant production will allow us to nourish or feed the mounting population and produce more desirable products. The future of GM crops remains an imperative debate, as its applications have several merits and demerits.

Agrobacterium tumefaciens, GM crops, Resistance, Transgenic plants NIL 2021-09-04 Popular Article Sibte Sayyeda and Vaibhav Pratap Singh

Sibte Sayyeda*

Dept. of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh (202 002), India

Vaibhav Pratap Singh

Dept. of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh (202 002), India

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712 1732507074 Biotica Research Today Stress Relieving Tetrodotoxin from Pufferfishes Agriculture 725-727

Pufferfishes occupies its unique place in Japanese seafood restaurants because of its delicious nature. Takifugu rubripes, an IUCN near-threatened red-listed species is one of the most preferred species and widely consumed. Due to its high market demand, makes it a highly prized food fish which in turn leads to depletion of wild stocks by overfishing. Aquacultured Tiger pufferfishes meets out the demand to a small extent but still consumer’s preference relies on those wild caught ones. Presently, Tiger pufferfish hatcheries faces severe stress releated mortalities. This article deals with the aspects that how the Tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin mitigates those stress-related mortalities in Tiger Pufferfishes hatcheries. And also, explains that how understanding on the interactive effects of tetrodotoxin on CRH-ACTH-cortisol axis and its mitigating stress effect can be exploited through further research.

CRH-ACTH-cortisol axis, Pufferfishes, Stress, Tetrodotoxin NIL 2021-09-05 Popular Article R. Karthik, S. Sudarshan and S. Aanand

R. Karthik*

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

S. Sudarshan

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

S. Aanand

Erode Centre for Sustainable Aquaculture, Bhavanisagar, Erode, Tamil Nadu (638 451), India

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713 1732507364 Biotica Research Today Aquaculture Waste Derived Biomaterial in Innovative Bone Repair Agriculture 728-729

As the title denotes, the innovative biomaterial has been developed using the aquaculture waste by a team of scientists at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Majority of the aquaculture industry side-streams are currently used for low-value purposes such as animal feed or composting material, with low economical returns. To maximize resource reuse and minimize waste generation, valorisation efforts should be augmented with the aim to produce high-value products. The Nanyang Technological University, Singapore has come up with the best remedy of waste utilization. The article discusses the technology and procedure in brief.

Aquaculture, Biomaterial, Tissue repair, Waste utilization NIL 2021-09-06 Popular Article Mahadevi, Cheryl Antony, V. Ezhilarasi, K. Ravaneswaran and B. Ahilan

Mahadevi*

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Cheryl Antony

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

V. Ezhilarasi

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

K. Ravaneswaran

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

B. Ahilan

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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714 1732507793 Biotica Research Today Seed Dormancy is a Necessary Phenomenon in Groundnut Agriculture 730-732

Groundnut is an important oilseed crop grown throughout the year. Groundnut having three types of growth habit, Spanish and Valencia habit types does not have fresh seed dormancy, while Virginia types having longer seed dormancy. Lack of seed dormancy in the Spanish bunch and Valencia varieties have a major problem of in-situ germination resulting from unpredictable rainfall at crop maturity while prolonged seed dormancy in Virginia types prevents farmers to use own seed immediately after harvest for sowing purpose and also having longer duration than Spanish bunch cultivars. Therefore, Spanish bunch cultivars are most suitable because of fit well in the kharif, rabi and summer seasons with at least three week fresh seed dormancy to avoid pod losses due to unpredictable rainfall at the time harvesting.

Fresh seed dormancy, Groundnut, Oilseed, Spanish bunch NIL 2021-09-07 Popular Article Narendra Kumar, Ajay B.C., S.K. Bishi, Gangadhara K., Praveen Kona, Kirti Rani and Raja Ram Choudhary

Narendra Kumar*

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research, Ivnagar Road, PB No.5, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Ajay B.C.

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research, Ivnagar Road, PB No.5, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

S.K. Bishi

ICAR- Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology, Garhkhatanga, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 010), India

Gangadhara K.

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research, Ivnagar Road, PB No.5, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Praveen Kona

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research, Ivnagar Road, PB No.5, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Kirti Rani

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research, Ivnagar Road, PB No.5, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Raja Ram Choudhary

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research, Ivnagar Road, PB No.5, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

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715 1732508302 Biotica Research Today Bacterial Endophytes: Potential Role in Plant Growth Promotion Agriculture 733-736

Endophytic bacteria belong to the group of microorganisms that complete their life cycle partly or entirely within a host plant without causing any apparent disease symptoms in the host. They are ubiquitously associated, either obligately or facultatively, with almost all plant parts and plant species, and this could be either beneficial or neutral effect on plants. In beneficial symbiotic associations, they enhance the plant growth under normal and stressed conditions through direct mechanisms such as production of phytohormones, improved bioavailability of nutrients and modulation of plant ethylene level or through indirect mechanisms by protecting host plant from the attack of pests and phytopathogens. Moreover, phytoremediation efficiency of bacterial endophytes contributes towards adaptation and enhanced growth of plants in sites heavily contaminated with organic pollutants. Therefore, application of endophytic bacteria with beneficial characteristics could be developed as a promising tool for gaining our goals of safe and sustainable agriculture system.

Biocontrol, Endophytic bacteria, Phytoremediation, Plant growth promotion NIL 2021-09-08 Popular Article Yashaswini, M.S., Nysanth, N.S. and Anith, K.N.

Yashaswini, M.S.*

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

Nysanth, N.S.

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bangalore, Karnataka (560 065), India

Anith, K.N.

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

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716 1732630761 Biotica Research Today Fish Behavioral Indicators in Aquarium/ Aqua Farms Agriculture 737-740

It is most important to understand behavior of fish just like any other pet. The fish acts and behaves are confera clear idea about the health and environment of fish is living in like maintenance of aquarium water and many more things. Fish behavior monitoring technology mainly refers to the use of machine vision or acoustic technology to obtain fish behavior (speed, fish population fluctuations, exercise cycle, feeding behavior, stress, etc.). Therefore, the assessment of welfare in a few individuals may not represent the average welfare of a group and vice versa. This underlines the need to develop on-farm, operational behavioural welfare indicators that can be easily used to assess not only the individual welfare but also the welfare of the whole group.

Behavioral Indicators, Fish, Fish Health, Stress NIL 2021-09-09 Popular Article M. Kamalakannan, S. Ezhilarasu, C. Mercy Amrita and D. Babiyola

M. Kamalakannan*

College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

S. Ezhilarasu

 B.Tech (Fisheries Engineering), College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

C. Mercy Amrita

College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

D. Babiyola

College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

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717 1732631065 Biotica Research Today IoT based Smart Water Quality Management in Aquarium Agriculture 741-744

Water quality is the most important factor affecting fish health and performance in aquarium. Fish life totally dependent on the water they live. An IoT-based smart aquarium monitoring system is one of the solutions to cater the problems of water quality. The maintenance of fish aquarium is very difficult task, as continuous monitoring of water quality is required. The manual methods of determining the water quality parameters include instrumental, titration and kit methodologies. These methods are tedious, time consuming, not accurate and could not obtain instant results. Improved methods for monitoring and controlling water quality indicators in real time are required for constant monitoring of fish health. This paper proposes an IoT based system which is equipped with sensors and actuators to monitor and control the aquarium in real time. It is a low cost system with better efficiency. This designed prototype is useful for broodstock holders of ornamental fishes.

Actuators, Aquarium, Controlling, Sensors NIL 2021-09-10 Popular Article C. Mercy Amrita, D. Babiyola, M. Kamalakannan, S. Nivetha and P. Sivanesan

C. Mercy Amrita*

Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalitha Fisheries University, College of Fisheries Engineering, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 001), India

D. Babiyola

Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalitha Fisheries University, College of Fisheries Engineering, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 001), India

M. Kamalakannan

Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalitha Fisheries University, College of Fisheries Engineering, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 001), India

S. Nivetha

Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalitha Fisheries University, College of Fisheries Engineering, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 001), India

P. Sivanesan

Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalitha Fisheries University, College of Fisheries Engineering, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 001), India

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718 1732682350 Biotica Research Today Identification of Fish Freshness using Artificial Intelligence Agriculture 745-748

Fish is the most perishable sea food and it has high economic value due to its taste and nutritional value. Nowadays, fish freshness is analyzed by physical examination test. Manual identification of fish freshness can source of false estimation and result to the probability of food poisoning. This paper deals with the classification of fish freshness based on image processing by using Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The fish eye image will be captured during its freshness stage to spoiled stage sequentially and it is stored by using chilling process. In Image acquisition, the eyes and gills of the fish image was captured under constant illumination. The images are processed and it is fed to Artificial Neural Network (ANN). Feed forward back propagation algorithm was used to train the artificial neural network in order to achieve the desired output.

Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Chilling Process, Fish Freshness, Image Acquisitions NIL 2021-09-11 Popular Article Babiyola D., Mercy Amrita C., Kamalakannan M. and Ragasudha R.

Babiyola D.*

Dept. of Fisheries Engineering, College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

Mercy Amrita C.

Dept. of Fisheries Engineering, College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

Kamalakannan M.

Dept. of Basic Sciences, College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

Ragasudha R.

M.Tech (Fish Process Engineering), College of Fisheries Engineering, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

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719 1732683253 Biotica Research Today Remote Sensing Application in Carbon Sequestration Agriculture 752-754

Perennial vegetation is the most important element in the terrestrial carbon sequestration. Their key role in ecosystem dynamics is well known. However, it is paradoxical that the vegetation has undergone destruction and degradation in the modern times due to industrial and technological advancement achieved by the human society. This advancement has resulted in emission of carbon dioxide. Therefore there is an imperative need to address environmental issues related to them. Trees are important sink for atmospheric carbon i.e., carbon dioxide, since 50% of their standing biomass is carbon itself. Importance of forested area in carbon sequestration is already accepted and well documented. Ever green fruit trees, and needle leaf vegetation also have similar carbon sequestration ability as that of forest trees.

Carbon sequestration, Perennial vegetation, Remote sensing, Standing biomass NIL 2021-09-13 Popular Article Ramya, A., Karthikeyan, G. and Dhevagi, P.

Ramya, A.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Karthikeyan, G.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Dhevagi, P.*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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720 1732683550 Biotica Research Today Management of Salt Affected Soils Agriculture 755-757

In India, the extents of salt affected soils are increased enormously to 6.74 million hectare. Soil salinity is one of the major problems restricting crop production in the arid and semi arid regions of the world. Area distributed in India viz., Saline soil (2.96 mha) and Sodic soil (3.78 mha) and in which the worst affected areas were found in Gujarat and Rajasthan states. These problem soils namely, saline, sodic, saline sodic soils should be managed through integrated approach for the reclamation through various practices to nullify these problems for better crop yield as well as soil fertility. Mainly we could recommend the practices of soil amendments, crop rotation, choosing of crops, soil drainage, leaching, gypsum application, lime application for reclamation of salt affected soils for sustainable development for crop production and soil fertility management.

Leaching, Saline, Saline-sodic, Sodic NIL 2021-09-14 Popular Article S.R. Shrirangasami, V. Arulkumar, R. Murugaragavan, S.S. Rakesh and R. Shanmugasundaram

S.R. Shrirangasami*

Rice Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Ambasamudram, Tamil Nadu (627 401), India

V. Arulkumar

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

R. Murugaragavan

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

S.S. Rakesh

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

R. Shanmugasundaram

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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721 1732684284 Biotica Research Today A Major Play Role of Seagrass in Marine Environment Agriculture 758-759

Seagrasses are submerged flowering plants found in shallow marine waters, such as bays and lagoons and along the continental shelf in the Gulf of Mexico. A vital part of the marine ecosystem due to their productivity level, seagrasses provide food, habitat, and nursery areas for numerous vertebrate and invertebrate species. The vast biodiversity and sensitivity to changes in water quality inherent in sea grass communities makes seagrasses an important species to help determine the overall health of coastal ecosystems. This article will provide a better knowledge about important role of the seagrass in marine environment.

Biodiversity, Importance, Marine environment, Seagrasses NIL 2021-09-15 Popular Article S. Malathi and Ambika Binesh

S. Malathi*

Institute of Fisheries Postgraduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

Ambika Binesh

Institute of Fisheries Postgraduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

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722 1732684949 Biotica Research Today Coconut Garden - A Platform for Herbal Renaissance Agriculture 763-765

Synthetic drugs gaining entry into the human systems through various channels for treating ailment, infertility, beauty care, etc., leave their deadly imprints in the name of side effects and today medicinal plants are staging a comeback in the form of “Herbal Renaissance” to shield the humanity with safety and security. In the recent past, high market fluctuations of copra price along with emerging pests and diseases has forced the farming community to think of synergistic intercrops like cocoa, nutmeg, pepper, arecanut, acid lime, guava etc., in coconut gardens. Unequivocally medicinal plants offer good scope for increasing the on-farm productivity and income of coconut growers besides restoring the traditional wisdom about alternative medicine which has slowly eroded in the plight of fast acting synthetic drugs. Eclipta alba, Centella asiatica, Andrographis paniculata, Solanum surattense, Phyllanthus amarus, Swertia chirata, Hemedesmus indicus, Pluchea lanceolata Withania somnifera and Alpinia galangal are the medicinal plants suitable for intercropping in coconut gardens.

Coconut, Herbal Renaissance, Intercropping, Medicinal Plants NIL 2021-09-17 Popular Article C. Sudhalakshmi, D. Rajakumar, C. Ushamalini and B. Meena

C. Sudhalakshmi*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Coconut Research Station, Aliyar Nagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

D. Rajakumar

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Coconut Research Station, Aliyar Nagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

C. Ushamalini

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Coconut Research Station, Aliyar Nagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

B. Meena

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Coconut Research Station, Aliyar Nagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

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723 1732685466 Biotica Research Today Bioremediation - An Important Tool to Conserve the Green Earth Agriculture 766-769

Use and overuse of resources have caused its depletion which in turn is creating a havoc to the environment releasing contaminants and pollutants in the atmosphere. Hazardous chemicals and toxic substances are accumulated in the nature harming the biological diversity. Bioremediation is a process that helps degrading contaminants using biological agents like, bacteria, algae, fungi, yeast and plants. Through recombinant DNA technology, breeding line-ups and genetic modification methods, biotechnology was able enhance the natural properties of plants to make it more suitable as per the environmental conditions. Beneficial microbiological agents are used to treat contaminated culture water or waste water which utilizes contaminants as their energy sources. Use of microbes as biocontrol agent is risky; however, at critical times it was proved to be helpful.

Bioaugmentation, Phytoextraction, Phytoremediation, Yeasts NIL 2021-09-17 Popular Article Aslasha Shraborni, Bipasha Nandi, Khimsali Difoe and Kaustubh Bhagawati

Aslasha Shraborni

Dept. of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, Assam Agricultural University, Raha, Nagaon, Assam (782 103), India

Bipasha Nandi

Dept. of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, Assam Agricultural University, Raha, Nagaon, Assam (782 103), India

Khimsali Difoe

Dept. of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, Assam Agricultural University, Raha, Nagaon, Assam (782 103), India

Kaustubh Bhagawati*

Dept. of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, Assam Agricultural University, Raha, Nagaon, Assam (782 103), India

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724 1732686149 Biotica Research Today Facets of Diatoms and Its Potential Application Agriculture 770-772

Diatoms, single-cell eukaryotic microalgae with silicon-dioxide (silica)-based cell walls ranging in size from tens to hundreds of micrometres, can be found in practically every aquatic habitat. Diatoms obtain their energy from sunshine and grow use organic matter as food (Carbon source) grown in aquaculture pond. They are the world's largest oxygen producers, producing 20% of all oxygen on the globe. Different species of diatoms are cultured/ grown in both marine and freshwater, which helps the juveniles as a primary source of food for shrimp and fish fry, which are the most interesting features to be used in nanotechnology, including biosensing, drug delivery, molecular separation, molecular biology, biomimetics, frustule formation, and electronic, photonic, optical, and structural materials.

Biosensor, Diatom, Frustules, Pharmaceutical NIL 2021-09-18 Popular Article Divya, M. and S. Aanand

Divya, M.*

TNJFU Fisheries Business School, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

S. Aanand

Erode Centre for Sustainable Aquaculture, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Bhavanisagar, Tamil Nadu (638 451), India

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725 1732687798 Biotica Research Today Importance of Quality Seed in Crop Production Agriculture 773-774

The seeds play a vital role in agriculture and acts as a carrier of the genetic potential of varieties. Each and every farmer should able to acquire healthy seeds which are genetically pure, having high seed vigour and good germination percentage. Timely availability of good quality seeds at reasonable price ensures good yield and profit to the farmers. Quality seed is very important to enhance the production. It is necessary to maintain the varietal purity of seed, and control the seed borne disease for the production of high quality seed.

Ovule, Seed, True to type, Vigour NIL 2021-09-18 Popular Article R.S. Telem, Romila Akoijam and N. Jyotsna

R.S. Telem*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Hengbung, Senapati, Manipur (795 129), India

Romila Akoijam

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat, Manipur (795 004), India

N. Jyotsna

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Hengbung, Senapati, Manipur (795 129), India

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726 1732688586 Biotica Research Today Emerging Technologies in Microencapsulation of Fish Oil Agriculture 775-777

Generally encapsulation will develop an impermeable barrier to oxygen diffusion, thus it has been widely used to protect fish oil from oxidation. It also used in the controlled release of ingredients to improve the functionality of food additives and expanding the application range of food ingredients. Several methods have been used to encapsulate fish oil, but spray drying is the most common method. Electro spraying for ultrathin coating, spray granulation and fluid bed film coating, encapsulation using ultrasonic atomizer are the emerging methods for encapsulation of fish oil.

Electro spraying, Fish oil, Microencapsulation, Spray granulation NIL 2021-09-19 Popular Article Sarojini A., Vinothkumar L., Vignaesh D. and Manivannan M.

Sarojini A.*

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Vinothkumar L.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Vignaesh D.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Manivannan M.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

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727 1732689498 Biotica Research Today Single Cell Protein - An Alternative Microbial Protein Source Agriculture 778-780

The term single-cell protein (SCP) is used to describe protein derived from cells of microorganisms such as yeast, fungi, algae and bacteria which are grown on various carbon sources for synthesis. The dried cells of microorganisms or the whole organism is harvested and consumed. This is a protein source for human food supplements and animal feeds. SCP production may have potential for feeding the ever-increasing world population. Massive quantities of SCP can be produced in a single day. As a source of protein, it is very promising with potential to satisfy the world shortage of food while population increases.

GMO, Microbes, Protein, SCP production NIL 2021-09-19 Popular Article K. Abarna, V. Rani and N. Manimozhi

K. Abarna*

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Fisheries College & Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

V. Rani

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Fisheries College & Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

N. Manimozhi

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Fisheries College & Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

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728 1732713092 Biotica Research Today Dung Beetles Agriculture 784-785

The dead bodies of plants and animals are a rich source of organic matter that provides nutrition for many insects called saprophages. The suborder Scarabaeinae has coprophagy as a characteristic of most of its species. Dung rollers are one of the important insect saprophages that decomposes the waste. They derive their nutrients largely by eating microbes or colloids suspended in dung. This article explains the role of dung beetles in the functioning of the ecosystems.

Beetles, Dung rollers, Saprophages, Scarabaeidae NIL 2021-09-20 Popular Article Nisha Pradeepa, K., A. Subash Chandra Bose and D. Indhu Mathi

Nisha Pradeepa, K.*

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

A. Subash Chandra Bose

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

D. Indhu Mathi

S. Thangapazham Agricultural College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

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729 1732713524 Biotica Research Today The Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Plant Health: The Untold Story Agriculture 786-788

The global pandemic has undermined the public health and socio-economic scenario of the world. The human race has experienced countless changes in their day-to-day life to contain the disease and protect themselves from potential infections. The new normal situations imposed many transformations in lifestyle including the use of face masks and other protective elements. Imprudent use and improper disposal of such elements are continuously polluting our environment in a completely different way. The global plastic footprint dramatically altered in the last couple of years. These stupendous accumulations of plastics in soil and aquatic bodies, particularly microplastics, gradually deteriorate the average health of plants. The global pandemic-associated microplastic pollution is setting a silent path for another “hidden pandemic” for the future. This problem should be taken into account with utmost importance to prevent any future calamities.

COVID-19 pandemic, Microplastic, Plant health, Single-use plastics NIL 2021-09-21 Popular Article Anirban Bhar

Anirban Bhar

Dept. of Botany (Post Graduate), Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Rahara, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 118), India

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730 1732714135 Biotica Research Today Sugarcane Woolly Aphid (SWA), Ceratovacuna lanigera (Aphididae: Hemiptera) Agriculture 789-790

Sugarcane is one of the major cash crops in India. It was severely damaged by many insect pests including lepidopteran borers and sucking pests. In recent years, sugarcane woolly aphid is most destructive among sucking pests. The infestation of woolly aphid starts after rainy season and severe infestation during summer with prolonged dry condition with high relative humidity. This pest transmitted by wind and also by the transportation of setts from affected field to unaffected areas. Woolly aphid can be well efficiently managed by several integrated pest management strategy including, cultural, physical, mechanical, bio-control agents, bio-pesticides and chemical methods.

Ceratovacuna lanigera, IPM, Sugarcane, Woolly aphid NIL 2021-09-21 Popular Article I. Rabeena, A. Subash Chandra Bose and Nisha Pradeepa

I. Rabeena*

Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

A. Subash Chandra Bose

S. Thangapazham Agriculture College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

Nisha Pradeepa

S. Thangapazham Agriculture College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu (627 760), India

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731 1732714506 Biotica Research Today Plant Probiotics: A New Green Revolution Agriculture 791-792

With the growing population need of producing abundant food in the same piece of land resulted in intensification of agriculture causing high usage of pesticides and fertilizers. Unfortunately, the high and indiscriminate usage of the chemicals resulted in depletion effects on soil, water, human and animal health. Some terrestrial bacteria harbour some of the mechanisms to enhance plant growth, which includes the biocontrol of plant pathogens, nutrient mobilization, phyto-stimulation and abiotic stress protection. Hence, these are also said to be Plant Probiotic Bacteria. These plant probiotic microorganisms are beneficial microorganisms that offer a promising alternative and reduce the health problems and constitute an ecofriendly manner to contribute the production of food needed for world population to sustain.

Biocontrol, Green revolution, Mechanisms, Probiotic Bacteria NIL 2021-09-22 Popular Article K. Greeshma, D. Madhurya, A. Akhil Reddy and K. Anvesh

K. Greeshma*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, PJTSAU, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

D. Madhurya

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, PJTSAU, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

A. Akhil Reddy

Dept. of Seed Science and Technology, College of Agriculture, PJTSAU, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

K. Anvesh

Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, PJTSAU, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

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732 1732715283 Biotica Research Today Small Millets (Nutri cereals): Food for the Future Agriculture 793-796

Small millets are traditional staple food in dry land areas and are well known as Nutri-cereals due to high nutrient content. The most important cultivated species of small millets are Foxtail millet (Kangni), Finger millet (Mandua), Little millet (Kutki), Kodo millet, Barnyard millet (Jhangora), and Proso millet (Cheena). Minor millets are loaded with full of macro- and micro-nutrients like Ca, Mg, Mn, Zn, Fe, phosphorous, fibre, B complex vitamins. Millets have nutraceutical properties in the form of antioxidants which are essential to human body. These minor millets perform well in marginal land, require very less water for their cultivation and can withstand severe climatic conditions. Small millets are more environment friendly with high water use efficiency and low input requirement, which make them farmer friendly. Therefore, there is need to develop new high yielding varieties to increase the area under minor millets crops to achieve nutritional security in the country.

COVID-19, Food security, Nutri-cereals, Small Millets NIL 2021-09-22 Popular Article Rajarshi Sanyal, Danish Jawed, Narendra Kumar and Sujit Kumar Bishi

Rajarshi Sanyal*

School of Genomics and Molecular Breeding, ICAR- Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology, Namkum, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 003), India

Danish Jawed

School of Genomics and Molecular Breeding, ICAR- Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology, Namkum, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 003), India

Narendra Kumar

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research- Regional Research Station, Bikaner, Rajasthan (334 004), India

Sujit Kumar Bishi

School of Genomics and Molecular Breeding, ICAR- Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology, Namkum, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 003), India

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733 1732715743 Biotica Research Today Marine Toxins - A Potential Threat to Human Life Agriculture 797-799

The development of harmful algal blooms is mainly due to the overgrowth of phytoplankton and it produces various toxins. The phytoplankton growth is also associated with transportation of encysted algae to the new environment or due to aquaculture practices. The toxins are classified into lipophilic and hydrophilic based on their solubility. The marine toxins have the ability to accumulate in fish, molluscs and crustaceans which are the basic diet for the human. The consumption of marine toxins causes severe neurological symptoms. The EU and USA has established the regulatory limits for the potential marine toxins. Hence, Continuous monitoring of algal blooms producing marine biotoxins helps in reducing potential impacts on human.

Aquaculture practices, Harmful algal blooms, Neurological symptoms, Shellfish NIL 2021-09-23 Popular Article Pandi Ganesan and Sakthivel Devadharshini

Pandi Ganesan*

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Sakthivel Devadharshini

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

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734 1732716893 Biotica Research Today Diseases of Groundnut and Their Eco-friendly Management Agriculture 806-809

India is the largest producer of Groundnut in the world, however its productivity (1,257 kg/ha) is quite low as compared to major groundnut producing countries like USA, China and Myanmar. Rainfed cultivations, soil salinity, non-replacement of seeds coupled with biotic stress (diseases and insect-pests) are the major limiting factors for low productivity of groundnut in India. Diseases being one of the major players in lowering the productivity of the crop, it has been discussed in this article. More than 50 diseases viz., stem rot, collar rot, leaf spots, rust and bud necrosis virus etc. has been recorded in India. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the most viable, economic and eco-friendly approach to deal with the menace and hence the purpose of the article.

Groundnut, Diseases, IPM, Productivity NIL 2021-09-26 Popular Article Licon Kumar Acharya, Rekha Balodi, Raghavendra K.V., Mukesh Sehgal and S.K. Singh

Licon Kumar Acharya*

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, LBS Building, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Rekha Balodi

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, LBS Building, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Raghavendra K.V.

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, LBS Building, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Mukesh Sehgal

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, LBS Building, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

S.K. Singh

ICAR- National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, LBS Building, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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735 1732851514 Biotica Research Today Marine Fisheries of Gujarat: Status and Issues Agriculture 831-833

Fishing has been considered as a livelihood option since time immemorial, for the occupants of the coastal belt in Gujarat, stretching along 1,600 km. Gujarat is continuously leading in the marine fish landings of Indian in the last few years. Gujarat exports 80% of its fish products to both EU and Non-EU countries. Trawl fisheries forms the mainstay of the marine capture fisheries of the state of Gujarat. Despite plenty of opportunities leading issues like overfishing, post-harvest loss, challenging due to climate changes etc. need to consider for sustainable fishery in future.

Gujarat, Marine Fisheries, Quality of Seafood, Seafood Processing NIL 2021-10-06 Popular Article B.G. Chudasama and T.H. Dave and D.V. Bhola

B.G. Chudasama*

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

T.H. Dave

Dept. of Fisheries Resource Management, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

D.V. Bhola

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

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736 1732851806 Biotica Research Today Current Scenario and Culture Techniques of Silver Pampano Fish, Trachinotus blochii Agriculture 834-835

India with an annual production is 13.7 million tonnes of fishes per year. In this half of the production is contributed by Aquaculture. Total global production of all species of pompano is in excess of 1,10,000 tonnes and appears to be growing. Aquaculture of silver pompano (Trachinotus blochii) is being successfully under taken in many Asia pacific countries like Taiwan and Indonesia. Recently cultured of silver pompano becomes families in Indian coastal states due to supply of seed from hatcheries. CMFRI supplies silver pompano seeds to farmers. Compare to marine fish farming there is a well development in freshwater fish farming and brackish water shrimp farming. Hence, it is emerging requirement to increase the production of marine fish like silver pompano.

Cage culture, Growth, Mariculture, Pompano fish NIL 2021-10-06 Popular Article A. Anix Vivek Santhiya, Mithun Kumar and C. Lloyd Chrispin

A. Anix Vivek Santhiya*

Dept. of Aquaculture, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Mithun Kumar

Dept. of Aquaculture, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

C. Lloyd Chrispin

Dept. of Fisheries Extension, Economics and Statistics, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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737 1732852140 Biotica Research Today Air Pollution in Metropolitan Cities - Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai Agriculture 836-839

Urbanization in India is rapid around the major cities in India. Population growth has been accelerated in cities due to migration of rural population. Increase in industrial activities, population both endemic and floating and vehicular population etc. has led to a rapid increase in environmental problems like Air pollution. Air pollution faced in Indian metropolitan cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai). The article gives details about air pollution, types of pollutants, and sources of air pollution in metropolitan cities, its effects on human. This article also covers the specific managing strategies to be followed for reducing the pollutants load into the atmosphere by the respective state government. The ultimate aim of this article is to make awareness to the people of urban cities regarding air pollution and possible suggestive measures to reduce pollution load in their cities.

Air pollution, Criteria pollutants, Effects, Management NIL 2021-10-07 Popular Article Thamaraikannan, S. and R. Jayashree

Thamaraikannan, S.

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

R. Jayashree*

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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738 1732852360 Biotica Research Today Hidden Hunger Crisis and Biofortification Agriculture 840-842

Micronutrient deficiency is a serious global health problem that affects one out of every three persons. Agricultural products are the primary source of nutrients for humans, especially in developing countries. These nutrient deficient agricultural products cannot support healthy diet in order to meet daily requirements resulting in poor health, sickness, increased morbidity and mortality rates. Biofortifying the crops consumed by the poor population of the world can considerably improve the amount of nutrients consumed by these populations. Despite numerous challenges and the potential extent of biofortification's impact on population nutritional status may be small biofortified crops have been recognized as a viable and cost-effective agricultural approach for improving the nutritional status of tens of millions of people on a sustainable basis.

Biofortification, Hidden hunger, Micronutrients, Nutrition NIL 2021-10-07 Popular Article Merentoshi and Ranjan Das

Merentoshi*

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development (SASRD), Nagaland University, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Ranjan Das

Dept. of Crop Physiology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

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739 1732852961 Biotica Research Today A Golden Success Meets a Marigold Farmer - Success Story on Marigold Cultivation Agriculture 846-848

The marigold, a golden flower belongs to order asterales and family asteraceae, is cultivated as garden crop throughout world. The area under the marigold cultivation in India is about 68.33 thousand ha with a production of 607.97 thousand MT in 2016-17 (DAC & FW). Madhya Pradesh is a major marigold producing state in India. In view of its easy culture and wide adaptability, attractive flower color, shape, size and good keeping quality, it has captured the popularity among the farming community. The flowers of two cultivated marigold species such as African marigold – Tagetes erecta and French marigold – Tagetes patula, are used for many purposes like celebrations of religious/ spiritual, party/ functions and most of the festivals. The demand of this flower is very high during Dashara, Diwali and other festivals, is very high. Hence retail market price of these flowers may reach up to Rs. 100.00 to 150.00 per kg at peak hours.

African marigold, Economic benefits, French marigold, Marketing NIL 2021-10-08 Success story M. Sampath Kumar, G. Veeranna and K. Vijay Kumar

M. Sampath Kumar*

Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, District Agricultural Advisory Transfer of Technology Centre and Agricultural Research Station, Mudhole, Nirmal, Telangana (504 102), India

G. Veeranna

Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, District Agricultural Advisory Transfer of Technology Centre and Agricultural Research Station, Mudhole, Nirmal, Telangana (504 102), India

K. Vijay Kumar

Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, District Agricultural Advisory Transfer of Technology Centre and Agricultural Research Station, Mudhole, Nirmal, Telangana (504 102), India

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740 1732854111 Biotica Research Today Project “i5K”: An Initiative to Unravel the Insect Genome Agriculture 849-852

Insects comprised of 75% of the animal kingdom that have been evolved around 350 million years ago. The abundance and complexity of insects have enabled them to establish in all kind of habitats from salt water lakes to high altitude mountain ranges. Among diverse insects, major orders such as Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Diptera that include crop pests while Hymenopteran mainly include the social insects and biocontrol agents have been well evolved over time and different host ranges. Though, different chemical and non-chemical control strategies have been well developed, yet their resurgence, outbreak and resistance are the major concern for the entomologists. Thus, developing ecologically suitable and economically viable method for pest control is the need of the hour. So, deciphering the insect genome, targeting the elite gene can be a suitable novel method in this context. So, a major project i.e., i5K had been formulated in 2011, by Robinson and his colleagues to sequence the unexplored insect genome within a period of 5 years.

Abundance, Complexity, i5K, Insect genome NIL 2021-10-09 Popular Article Ipsita Samal and Debanjana Debnath

Ipsita Samal*

Dept. of Entomology, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

Debanjana Debnath

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

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741 1732854636 Biotica Research Today A New HIV Vaccine Heads to Clinical Trials by Moderna's mRNA Technology Agriculture 853-856

Moderna, a Massachusetts-based company which has recently been acknowledged for developing a viable COVID-19 vaccine, will soon begin human trials of a revolutionary HIV vaccine. Researchers expect that the mRNA technology used to develop the COVID-19 vaccine will also work against HIV resulting in an effective vaccine against the later. Moderna's strategy is based on the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, a non-profit organisation and Scripps Research, a non-profit research facility in San Diego. In addition, a collaborative study shown that it is possible to increase activity of immune cells termed germline B-cells, which can create broadly neutralising antibodies against HIV in humans.

HIV-AIDS, Moderna, mRNA, Vaccine NIL 2021-10-09 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Pratikshya Mishra and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Pratikshya Mishra

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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742 1732854965 Biotica Research Today Antibiotics in Promoting Male Sterility in Food Crops: An Overview Agriculture 857-859

Antibiotics have proven to be a highly effective tool in treating bacterial diseases, both in humans and in plants. Endosymbiotic theory states that mitochondria and chloroplasts have evolved from prokaryotic organism (bacteria). Due to these extracellular organelles having similar systems to bacteria, these organelles are classed as part of the same system. Several antibiotic-resistance genes have been inserted into these organelles, and their functions have been disrupted to make male sterile crops like as barley. However, alternative techniques must be found to tackle sickness and other concerns that are as destructive to the environment. One of the finest techniques is to use herbal or medicinal plants.

Antibiotics, Extracellular organelles, Herbal products, Male sterility NIL 2021-10-10 Popular Article Kanti Meena and K.B.R.S. Visarada

Kanti Meena*

ICAR- Indian Institute for Millets Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

K.B.R.S. Visarada

ICAR- Indian Institute for Millets Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

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743 1732855258 Biotica Research Today Alternaria Leaf Blight is a Major Foliar Fungal Disease of Rabi-Summer Groundnut Agriculture 860-862

Alternaria leaf blight disease of groundnut is an emerging foliar fungal disease particularly in rabi-summer season in India. Alternaria is a weak opportunistic pathogen causing leaf spots, rots and blights on many plant parts of about 400 host plant species. Its severity varies from state to state and increases whenever the crop is facing any biotic and abiotic stresses. This disease significantly affects groundnut pod, haulm yield and kernel quality. In disease management practices, effective chemical control measures are available for the control of this disease but it is costly and also pollutes the environment besides that disease can be manage by cultural practices, host plant resistance and bio-control measures. Currently high level of resistance to Alternaria leaf blight is not available in groundnut cultivars but germplasm having high level of resistance. Therefore now efforts are being made to develop high yielding groundnut cultivars using available resistance sources of Alternaria leaf blight.

Groundnut, Alternaria leaf blight, Rabi-summer, Resistance NIL 2021-10-10 Popular Article Narendra Kumar, Ajay B.C., Praveen Kona, Kirti Rani and S.K. Bishi

Narendra Kumar*

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research, Ivnagar Road, PB No.5, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Ajay B.C.

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research, Ivnagar Road, PB No.5, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Praveen Kona

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research, Ivnagar Road, PB No.5, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Kirti Rani

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research, Ivnagar Road, PB No.5, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

S.K. Bishi

ICAR- Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology, Garhkhatanga, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 010), India

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744 1732856974 Biotica Research Today Therapeutic Prospective of Tuna Fish Agriculture 863-864

Tuna fish is one of the most popular varieties of seafood in the world. In addition to its abundance and meaty flavor, tuna is also an extremely nutritious food and lots of health benefits are associated with the consumption of tuna fish. Because of it’s had high potential for therapeutic value due to its bioactive compounds. Tuna Fish obtains a greater attraction as an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids. Tuna fish is considered a choice for many since it is the cheapest source of animal protein and other essential nutrients for human health.

Omega 3 fatty acids, Therapeutic, Tuna fish NIL 2021-10-11 Popular Article Riddhiben Govindbhai Vagh, D. V. Bhola and B. G. Chudasama

Riddhiben Govindbhai Vagh*

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

D. V. Bhola

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

B. G. Chudasama

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 265), India

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745 1732857337 Biotica Research Today A Conceptual Approach on Soil Infiltration Agriculture 865-866

Infiltration is one of the properties of soil related to application of water either in the form of irrigation or rainfall. Infiltration plays major role in water holding capacity of soil, runoff generation, soil physical properties, plant root development and ground water recharge. Infiltrometer is majorly used to measure the rate of water entry into the soil. In addition, researchers have developed some empirical models to quantify the soil infiltration rates.

Double ring infiltrometer, Hydrologic soil groups, Infiltration, Runoff NIL 2021-10-11 Popular Article N. Janani, G. Thiyagarajan and Balaji Kannan

N. Janani*

Dept. of Soil & Water Conservation Engineering, AEC&RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

G. Thiyagarajan

Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Balaji Kannan

Dept. of Soil & Water Conservation Engineering, AEC&RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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746 1732857895 Biotica Research Today Neera: A Nutritious Health Drink Agriculture 870-873

Coconut palm is one of the economically important palms in the world and owing to its multipurpose nature; it can contribute in many ways for the sustainability of farming communities. At present coconut inflorescence sap, as a health drink, has tremendous market potential in India as well as in other countries. Hence if promoted, it has tremendous market potential as a natural health drink and also as a raw material for different value-added coconut products like syrup, sugar, honey, etc., and this ensures the profitability of coconut cultivation and contribute to the sustenance and well-being of coconut communities.

Coconut, Health Drink, Neera, Product diversification NIL 2021-10-16 Popular Article V. Sivakumar, R. Sudha and V. Niral

V. Sivakumar*

Coconut Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

R. Sudha

Division of Crop Improvement, ICAR-CPCRI, Kasaragod, Kerala (671 124), India

V. Niral

Division of Crop Improvement, ICAR-CPCRI, Kasaragod, Kerala (671 124), India

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747 1732858404 Biotica Research Today Insect Pests of Bamboos and Their Management Agriculture 874-877

Pest problem is one of the major constraints for achieving higher production in bamboos. Bamboo is affected by several insects belonging to the orders Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Orthoptera and Hemiptera. Of the defoliators, greater leaf roller Pyrausta coclesalis is the most important occurring in epidemic, in post-monsoon season. Other defoliators are P. bambucivora, Heiroglyphus banian and Poecilo cerus pictus. The bamboo weevils Cyrtotrachelus dux and Cyrtotrachelus longimanus are important shoot borers. The hispine beetle Estigmena chinensis inflicts heavy damage on Dendrocalamus strictus culms. The borers of standing bamboos are controlled by silvicultural thinning. Of the sap-suckers bamboo aphid Oregma bambusae and seed bug Ochrophara occurs in epidemic form. For controlling of insect pests of bamboo require preventive and remedial measures employing physical, chemical and biological techniques are available. The concept of integrated pest management (IPM) exploits all the available options so that the insecticide load to the environment can be minimized.

Bamboo, Forest, IPM, Insect pests NIL 2021-10-17 Popular Article Mohan C. and Nanita Berry

Mohan C.*

Division of Forest Protection, ICFRE- Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 021), India

Nanita Berry

Division of Forest Protection, ICFRE- Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 021), India

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748 1732880018 Biotica Research Today Bio-Security Measures: Inevitable Steps to Control Biohazards at Farms Level Agriculture 456-457

Bio-security implies to a series of comprehensive strategies and rules to mitigate and curb spreading of diseases as well as to safeguard the life and health of flora and fauna with other environmental risks associated with it. With the changing world order and climate change, it has become very essential to check the pathogens at every check point to prevent pandemic situations like Covid-19. The application of these strategies and set of rules are very critical at regional, national and international level to prevent trans-boundary diseases also. In addition to that, bio-security at farm levels guarantees the food safety down the line and prevents any health hazards.

Bio-security, Food security, Health hazard, Vector NIL 2024-10-20 Popular Article Sakshi

Sakshi*

M.V.Sc. (Veterinary Medicine), ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izzatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (243 122), India

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749 1732890804 Biotica Research Today The Hidden Peril of the Seas: Ghost Fishing and Its Global Impact Fisheries Science 458-460

Ghost fishing has an impact on the marine living ecosystem with the use of old fishing gears like nets and traps that unwittingly continue to catch all other marine species like fishes, sea turtles, sea birds and mammals. Such remnants can spend years on the ocean floor, causing disruption in structures and availability of energy. Better management practices, making gear stronger so it is less likely to be lost, using nets that degrade with time and retrieving gear using submersible drones are all examples of measures to help solve the problem of ghost fishing. In order to reduce the impact of ghost fishing, there is need for local, regional and international mobilization. Global interaction can aid in developing better one way use fishing gears and also networks, which will conserve the ocean and its resources for years to come.

Ecological damage, Ghost fishing, Ghost net clean-up, Global Ghost Gear Initiative (GGGI) NIL 2024-10-25 Popular Article S. Simaanchana, S.R. Somashekara and Suman Verma

S. Simaanchana*

Dept. of Fisheries Resources and Management, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Karnataka (575 002), India

S.R. Somashekara

Dept. of Fisheries Resources and Management, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Karnataka (575 002), India

Suman Verma

Dept. of Fisheries Extension, Economics and Statistics, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Karnataka (575 002), India

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750 1733285597 Biotica Research Today Lotus (Nelumbium Spp.) Seed: A Nutrient Rich Food from Freshwater Wetland Ecosystem Agriculture 878-881

The seeds of lotus (Nelumbium nucifera Gaertn.) contain many functional ingredients. They can be eaten as raw or cooked and are often added to foods as ingredient. It contains multiple functional compounds, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, protein and polysaccharides. Low fat content and good proportion of high value amino acids confer the lotus seeds to have unique nutritional values. It has anti-oxidant activity, hypoglycemic, immune-modulatory, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and gastro-intestinal regulatory effects. Furthermore, the nutritional composition, physiological functions and different processing methods of lotus seeds are very much associated with Hindu religious fervors and its consumption. It is a nutrient dense medicinal super food essentially requires judicious use for obtaining wonderful benefits for health and vigor of the individuals.

Anti-oidant activity, Flavonoids, Lotus seed, Protein NIL 2021-10-18 Popular Article B.R. Jana

B.R. Jana

ICAR-RCER, Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

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751 1733285900 Biotica Research Today Sampling, Processing and Storage of Plant Materials for Chemical Analysis Agriculture 882-885

Sampling plays a critical role in plant analysis. The process of plant sampling the material is a very important step in any analysis. The final result of the analysis will be reliable only when the plant sampling is good and true. If the plant sampling is defective the final value will not be true and accurate. Hence, adequate care has to be taken while taking up a plant sample. When analyzing the nutrient status of plants, it is essential to select the plant part for chemical analysis that reflects the status of the particular element of interest. Several tools are available to evaluate the nutritional state of plants. However, it is necessary to integrate both techniques, chemical analysis of plants, and chemical and physical analysis of soil, besides visual diagnosis to maximize fertilization efficiency in terms of cost and prevention of environmental damage.

Crops, Methods, Plant, Sampling NIL 2021-10-19 Popular Article S. Suganya and V. Sumitha Bharathi

S. Suganya*

Dept. of Soil Science, S. Thangapazham Agricultural College (Affiliated to Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Vasudevanallur (627 760), Tamil Nadu, India

V. Sumitha Bharathi

Dept. of Environmental Science, S. Thangapazham Agricultural College (Affiliated to Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Vasudevanallur (627 760), Tamil Nadu, India

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752 1733286180 Biotica Research Today Impact of Cyclone on Fisheries Sector in India Agriculture 886-888

Cyclones are a type of natural disaster which happens every year in India that is affecting the fish biodiversity, fish catch, damaging katcha houses, fishing infrastructure such as port, fish drying area, fish auction hall, crafts, gears and water quality is also affected. Due to cyclone fisherman has lost their fishing days thereby income of fishermen is lost. In some cases the fishers have lost their lives also. To overcome the cyclonic storms more preparedness is required to become adaptive to these natural disasters. The coastal people have to be shifted to safe places and provided all necessary facilities. To reduce the effect of cyclone on coastal area the mangrove belt has to improve to guard the coastal area. The fishers have to be taught some alternative livelihood thereby the income of fishermen is not lost during cyclone days.

Fisheries, Low pressure, Storm surge, Tropical cyclone NIL 2021-10-20 Popular Article Dhanalakshmi M., Karankumar K. Ramteke and Rinkesh N. Wanjari

Dhanalakshmi M.*

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Karankumar K. Ramteke

ICAR- Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

Rinkesh N. Wanjari

Division of Fisheries Resource Management (FRM), Faculty of Fisheries, SKUAST-K, Rangil, Ganderbal, Jammu & Kashmir (190 006), India

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753 1733287155 Biotica Research Today Historic Moment: WHO Approves the World’s First Malaria Vaccine “Mosquirix or RTS,S/AS01” Agriculture 892-896

On October 6, 2021, the World Health Organization approved the first vaccine against malaria after a nearly seven-decade global battle against the disease that claims more than 4 lakh lives each year. The WHO has recommended a widespread deployment of the vaccine Mosquirix or RTS,S/AS01 developed by GlaxoSmithKline for children below five years in sub-Saharan Africa and other at-risk regions. The WHO has recommended the use of the RTS,S malaria vaccine, which GlaxoSmithKline produces. It is the first malaria vaccine to be recommended by the global health body. It follows a review of two years of piloting studies of the vaccine in three sub-Saharan African countries with a high burden of malaria: Malawi, Kenya, and Ghana. After careful evaluation and extensive discussion, the WHO concluded that the vaccine should be recommended for use in children living in areas of moderate to high malaria burden.

Malaria, Mosquirix, RTS,S/AS01, Vaccine NIL 2021-10-22 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Pratikshya Mishra, Smrutilekha Sahoo and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Pratikshya Mishra

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Smrutilekha Sahoo

Dept. of Occupational Therapy, National Institute for Locomotor Disability (Divyangjan), Kolkata, West Bengal (700 090), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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754 1733287944 Biotica Research Today Reduction of Flatus Sugars: An Approach towards Nutritional Enhancement Agriculture 897-900

Flatus sugars are naturally found in a large variety of seeds from different crop families, especially the legumes. A major contributor among the flatus sugars is the Raffinose family oligosaccharides (RFOs). They are α-galactosyl derivatives of sucrose. Due to absence of α-galactosidase enzyme in the digestive tract of humans and other monogastric animals, RFOs are responsible for intestinal disturbances (flatulence) following the ingestion of legume-derived products. Although RFOs are considered as the main flatus-causing factors, they are also involved in several important functions during plant and seed development. Hence, it is imperative to develop strategies to reduce RFO concentration to a level that maintains plant functions while reducing flatus potential. Several post-harvest processing methods and genetic approaches have been utilised to reduce RFO concentration to promote their consumption in human diet around the world, among which microbial α-galactosidases are thought as the most optimum candidate.

Antinutrients, Flatulence, Raffinose Family Oligosaccharides, RFO reduction strategies NIL 2021-10-23 Popular Article Rajarshi Sanyal and Sujit Kumar Bishi

Rajarshi Sanyal*

School of Genomics and Molecular Breeding, ICAR- Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology, Namkum, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 003), India

Sujit Kumar Bishi

School of Genomics and Molecular Breeding, ICAR- Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology, Namkum, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 003), India

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755 1733288314 Biotica Research Today Probiotics and Immunostimulants in Aquaculture Agriculture 901-903

Probiotics are organisms or substances that improve the balance of the host animal’s gut microbes and immunostimulants, also known as immunomodulators, adjuvants, or biological response modifiers, can stimulate the immune system. They can be given in the form of drugs or nutrients. They are considered natural and functional food ingredients and an alternative feeding strategy for immune regulation and antibiotic eradication. As dietary supplements in feed, immunostimulants and probiotics can generally improve the immunity, feed efficiency and growth performance of crustaceans and fish, even in small amounts.

Aquaculture, Disease, Immunostimulants, Probiotics NIL 2021-10-24 Popular Article Karun Kant Yadava and Cheryl

Karun Kant Yadava*

Dept. of Aquaculture, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Cheryl

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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756 1733289245 Biotica Research Today Integrated Management Strategies for Thrips in Cotton Agriculture 904-906

India is the largest producer of cotton. Cotton plant is ravaged by many sucking pests and there is a constant change in pest scenario. Among the sucking pests, thrips (Order: Thysanoptera, Family: Thripidae), is the most vital early season sucking insect pest that retard the growth and development of cotton. The main symptoms of damage is scrapping and sucking sap from leaf epidermis leads to curling of leaf margins and shriveling of leaves. However, thrips is a tiny sucking insect pest that can greatly hamper crop production by direct feeding damage and also acting as vectors of plant viruses and causing huge economic loss in agriculture. It is a polyphagous pest. Thrips develops in six stages: egg, two nymphal instars, prepupa, pupa, and finally the adult insect.

Cotton, Management, Sucking Pests, Thrips NIL 2021-10-25 Popular Article M. Amutha, D. Kanjana and P. Valarmathi

M. Amutha*

ICAR- Central Institute for Cotton Research, Regional Station, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

D. Kanjana

ICAR- Central Institute for Cotton Research, Regional Station, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

P. Valarmathi

ICAR- Central Institute for Cotton Research, Regional Station, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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757 1733289508 Biotica Research Today The Beginning of Genome Editing Tools to End Mosquito-Borne Diseases Agriculture 907-909

Mosquitoes are prime vectors for various diseases like malaria, dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever and zika which can make a person severely ill. Scientists around the world have developed treatments for the mosquito-borne diseases but the spread of disease has not been controlled enough. Therefore, scientists around the world have focused on the vector control mechanism by genome editing along with gene drive tools. CRISPR with gene drive tools was used to produce sterile the female mosquitoes that cause malaria and gradually eliminate them from the population. Another team of researchers have aimed at the fibrinogen-related protein 1 (FREP1) gene which is a broad-spectrum Plasmodium agonist and used CRISPR technology (Type II) for its knock out effects. ReMOT technology was used to produce mutation in malaria vector Anopheles stephensi by delivering Cas9 complex to adult mosquito ovary. By all these methods, although they are yet to be proved in commercial aspect, still these techniques have shown efficient and successful results in laboratory condition.

CRISPR/Cas, Gene drive, Genome editing, Mosquito borne disease NIL 2021-10-25 Popular Article Laxmipreeya Behera, Ankita Mishra, Sawant Shraddha Bhaskar and Kailash Chandra Samal

Laxmipreeya Behera*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 012), India

Ankita Mishra

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 012), India

Sawant Shraddha Bhaskar

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 012), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 012), India

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758 1733290401 Biotica Research Today Merck’s Oral Antiviral Pill ‘Molnupiravir’: could be a Covid-19 Pandemic Game-Changer Agriculture 912-915

Countries all across the Asia-Pacific region are galloping to place orders for the latest armament which can help in battling the deadly Coronavirus, an antiviral pill that has not yet been approved for use, termed as Molnupiravir and manufactured by US pharmaceutical company Merck. The pill is being deemed as a potential game-changer in the event of a pandemic, especially for the individuals who are unable to get vaccinated. As of now, at least eight countries or territories in the Asia-Pacific area have signed agreements or are in the process of doing so to obtain the drug. New Zealand, Australia, and South Korea are among these countries. Merck is seeking an emergency use authorization for the drug from the US Food and Drug Administration. If approved, the capsule will be the first antiviral treatment against Covid-19 that is used orally.

Covid-19, Game-changer, Molnupiravir, Oral drug NIL 2021-10-26 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Sudhanya Nath and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Sudhanya Nath

Dept. of Animal Nutrition, West Bengal University of Animal & Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 037), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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759 1733292153 Biotica Research Today Red Banded Mango Caterpillar: Evolving as a Destructive Pest in Major Mango Growing District of Bihar and West Bengal Agriculture 916-919

At all the stages of bearing of mango, there is attack of several insect and non-insect pests. Red banded caterpillar or Deanolis sublimbalis was the minor pest of mango but very recently emerged as a serious pest all over the world and act as emerging pest in Bhagalpur and Darbhanga district of Bihar. It causes great loss in most of the district of Bihar. The most destructive stage of this pest was larval stage. The red and white alternate bands on the body were the characteristic feature of this pest. This pest attacked the mango fruit from the pea sized till the maturity of the fruit causing boring of the fruits through several tunnels by the larvae. The matured instar larvae reached the seed yet to harden and tunnelled them, excreted inside and exposed the fruits to the secondary infestation by micropathogens. Pupation occurred in the soil inside a brownish cocoon or in the dry twigs of the branches.

Caterpillar, Losses, Quarantine, Seed borer NIL 2021-10-27 Popular Article Abhay Kumar Yadav, Ritesh Singh, Prabhakar Yadav, Vikash Singh and Jaish Raj Yadav

Abhay Kumar Yadav*

Dept. of Fruit Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Ritesh Singh

Dept. of Fruit Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Prabhakar Yadav

Dept. of Horticulture, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Allied Industries, Rama University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (209 217), India

Vikash Singh

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Jaish Raj Yadav

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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760 1733292858 Biotica Research Today Terrace Gardening of Vegetables Agriculture 925-927

In the present scenario, urban areas are covered with many multi-storied buildings due to the increase in the population and shift of population to cities for livelihood. This created shortage of land available for cultivation of household vegetables by kitchen gardening. The best solution for this is terrace gardening in which vegetables are grown on terraces, balconies or roofs of buildings through effective utilization of vertical space. Terrace gardening modifies the microclimate of the building and provides clean air in the urban areas, thus improving the health of urban people.

Space, Terrace gardening, Urban, Vegetables NIL 2021-10-28 Popular Article Pallerla Saisupriya and Pidigam Saidaiah

Pallerla Saisupriya*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

Pidigam Saidaiah

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Horticulture, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Mojerla, Telangana (509 382), India

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761 1733293143 Biotica Research Today How does Weather Impact Air Quality? Agriculture 928-931

When air quality is good, the air is clear and contains only small amounts of solid particles and chemical pollutants. Poor air quality, which contains high levels of pollutants, is often hazy and dangerous to health and the environment. The weather is one of the main factors affecting the air quality. The weather can have a significant impact on air quality since different aspects of the weather affect the amounts of ozone and particulates that are present in a specific area. Weather can help to clear away pollutants from atmosphere to improve air quality, or it can make air pollution extremely worse by helping to form pockets of highly polluted regions or disperse pollutants from source.

Air quality, Environment, Pollutants, Weather NIL 2021-10-28 Popular Article Ved Prakash, Ashutosh Upadhyaya, P. K. Sundaram, Akram Ahmad and Arti Kumari

Ved Prakash*

Division of Land and Water Management, ICAR- Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Ashutosh Upadhyaya

Division of Land and Water Management, ICAR- Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

P. K. Sundaram

Division of Land and Water Management, ICAR- Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Akram Ahmad

Division of Land and Water Management, ICAR- Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Arti Kumari

Division of Land and Water Management, ICAR- Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

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762 1733293576 Biotica Research Today The eDNA in Crop Science - A Tool to Increase Productivity and Sustainability of Pastoral Agriculture: Challenges and Perspectives Agriculture 932-934

The term eDNA represents to Environmental DNA metabarcoding, which is a novel way to assess the available biodiversity in the environmental samples (soil, water or air), which are used to extract DNA and are amplified using universal primers by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by sequencing the PCR product by next-generation sequencing. Plant health and crop productivity dependent on microbial population and their interactions with plant. Soil biology has a critical role in regulating soil formation, flow of key nutrients and the status of water quality is controlled by soil nutrients. India has a large area covered by pastoralism agriculture which has capacity to improve the livestock productivity on pastures by managing soil biology. They provide a considerable amount of opportunity to make progress on a diverse range of environmental outcomes linked to the ecosystem services that pastures support. eDNA can be an excellent way to monitor and control soil properties and, improving productivity.

Biodiversity, eDNA, Microarray, Pastoral agriculture NIL 2021-10-29 Popular Article Kanti Meena

Kanti Meena

ICAR- Central Research Institute for Jute and Allied Fibers, Barrackpore, West Bengal (700 120), India

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763 1733295130 Biotica Research Today Chickpea Fusarium Wilt: A Major Constraint to Chickpea Production and Its Management Agriculture 935-937

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is the third most important pulse crop in the world and India is the single largest producer accounting for 65% of the production. Fusarium wilt, caused by the soil borne fungus Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceris has become a major factor limiting chickpea production worldwide. Development and use of high-yielding cultivars resistant to the prevalent pathogen races in a given area is the single most practical and cost-efficient management for the disease. Use of healthy certified seed, sanitation and cropping practices, seed treatment with chemicals and biocontrol agent also help in managing the wilt in chickpea. Molecular tools available for characterization and monitoring of F. oxysporum f.sp. ciceris populations would help in the implementation efficiency of these disease control measures. Improvement of these practices may be further realized by combining slow-wilting cultivars within an integrated management strategy.

Chickpea, Fusarium wilt disease, Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceris, Integrated disease management NIL 2021-10-29 Popular Article V. Ramya, S. Ameer Basha and P. Bindu Priya

V. Ramya*

College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

S. Ameer Basha

College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

P. Bindu Priya

Agricultural College, Palem, Nagarkurnool, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana (509 215), India

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764 1733295801 Biotica Research Today Water Harvesting-Farm Pond as Source of Income and Livelihood Security for Rainfed Farmers in Semi-Arid Vertisols of Karnataka: A Success Story Agriculture 938-940

Harvesting and recycling of rainwater in dryland area is critical for improving water use efficiency. Farm ponds constructed under semi-arid black soil regions have tremendous potential to enhance agricultural productivity apart from saving the water and fertile top soil. A study was conducted to assess the economic impact of farm pond on farmer income in semi-arid vertisols of Karnataka. The sustained income and livelihood security of the farmer can be assured through harvesting rainwater in farm ponds and crop diversification particularly in semi-arid black soil region. Farm pond intervention enhances the 25-30% of crop productivity as harvested rainwater available for providing one or two protective irrigations to crops at critical growth stages during dry spells and droughts.

Dryland area, Farm pond, Semi-arid vertisols, Water use efficiency NIL 2021-10-30 Success story Ravi Dupdal, B.S. Naik, S.L. Patil and M.N. Ramesha

Ravi Dupdal*

ICAR- Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Ballari, Karnataka (583 104), India

B.S. Naik

ICAR- Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Ballari, Karnataka (583 104), India

S.L. Patil

ICAR- Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Regional Centre, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

M.N. Ramesha

ICAR- Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Ballari, Karnataka (583 104), India

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765 1733296513 Biotica Research Today Mangrove Restoration - A Boon to Marine Ecosystem! Agriculture 941-943

Mangroves are the only species of trees in the world that can tolerate saltwater. Mangrove supports biodiversity by providing shelter, habitats, nurseries and feeding grounds for many species. Sadly, more than a quarter of all mangrove ecosystems have been lost in the last 40 years. Restoration of mangrove is really a boon to the marine ecosystem; if we plant them again, mangroves will continue to offer many benefits for the ecosystem and for humans too, especially in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. This article mainly focus on the necessary of mangrove restoration and its methods, importance of restoring mangroves for our future generation.

Management, Marine restoration, Propagules, Regeneration NIL 2021-10-30 Popular Article V. Lakshme Gayathre, M. Kalaiarasan and S. Balasundari

V. Lakshme Gayathre*

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

M. Kalaiarasan

Directorate of Incubation and Vocational Training in Fisheries, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (623 519), India

S. Balasundari

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thalainayeru, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

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766 1733296833 Biotica Research Today Tomato: Physiological Disorders and Their Management Agriculture 944-948

Tomato is India's third most important horticultural crop, yet it is affected by a variety of abiotic causes. Blossom end rot, fruit cracking (radial and concentric cracking), puffiness, sunscald, blotchy ripening, and other physiological diseases harm the crop. This article will help growers in understanding various physiological disorders that impact the crop, and the corrective measures to take in order to develop a nutritious crop.

Blossom End Rot, Disorder, Management, Tomato NIL 2021-10-31 Popular Article Gangadhara K., Raman Selvakumar, Praveen Kumar Singh, Manjunathagowda D.C. and Jugendra Kumar

Gangadhara K.

ICAR- Central Institute of Arid Horticulture, Central Horticultural Experimental Station, Kalol, Gujarat (389 330), India

Raman Selvakumar*

ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Praveen Kumar Singh

ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Manjunathagowda D.C.

ICAR- Directorate of Onion and Garlic Research, Rajgurunagar, Pune, Maharashtra (410 505), India

Jugendra Kumar

ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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767 1733316615 Biotica Research Today Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for Sustainable Fisheries Agriculture 949-952

As climate change continues to represent a significant danger to the environment, adapting to its negative consequences has become more important for the vocations that rely on natural resources for their livelihood. Fisher are one of the main occupational groups who are dependent on nature are expected to experience many new challenges from the changing climate. Aspects such as risks reduction, climate change knowledge, coping mechanisms, involvement in adaptation planning and access to credit are recommended to be considered because they provides synergy for climate change adaptation. It examines capture fisheries and aquaculture sensitivity and vulnerability to climate change, as well as instances of existing adaptation strategies at present. Overall these adaptation strategies are highly useful to maintain sustainable fisheries in future.

Action plans, Adaptation, Climate Change, Impacts NIL 2021-11-04 Popular Article G. S. Keerthivarman, C. Lloyd Chrispin and A. Anix Vivek Santhiya

G. S. Keerthivarman*

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

C. Lloyd Chrispin

Dept. of Fisheries Extension, Economics and Statistics, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

A. Anix Vivek Santhiya

Dept. of Aquaculture, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

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768 1733318897 Biotica Research Today Bioactive Compounds Derived from Marine Organisms for Human Health Applications Agriculture 953-956

The oceans are one of the most valuable natural resources on Earth's and it is providing food to many organisms especially fish and shellfish. The oceans contribute more than 70% of the earth's surface and the diversity of the marine environment comprises the presence of potentially bioactive compounds. Marine organisms are very striking sources of nutritional and functional food ingredients. Marine organisms act as the best potential reservoir for such compounds of polysaccharides, sterols, proteins, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), antioxidants, and pigments. These organisms contain rich sources of natural bioactive compounds with potential applications in different fields which include medicine, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, nutraceuticals, and food, among others. Many of these bioactive compounds were involved in health benefits since they play a substantial role in the prevention of several pathologies due to their antioxidant, anticancer, and antibacterial effects, to mention a few. This article highlighted the bioactive compounds derived from different microorganisms and their functional properties for human health.

Bioactive compound, Coral reef, Marine sponges, Seaweeds NIL 2021-11-05 Popular Article V. Suryaprabha, K. Likitha, D. Kaviarasu, A. Uma and S. Saravanan

V. Suryaprabha

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

K. Likitha

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

D. Kaviarasu*

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

A. Uma

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

S. Saravanan

Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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769 1733320430 Biotica Research Today Small Signaling Molecules (SSMs) as an Important Mediator to Establish Beneficial Bacterial-Fungal Interaction in Agricultural Environment Agriculture 961-963

Microorganisms share common environment through close connection in nature, and build up a social environment between them that impact their growth and development in synergistic and/or antagonistic way. These interactions are generally regulated by the small signaling molecules (SSMs), which actually act as a driven factor ensuring the abundance of both the kingdoms in a common environment. In this article we will discuss about the perception, interaction, responses and mode of action of these biochemical compounds in agricultural environment.

Communication, Microorganism, Molecule, Signal NIL 2021-11-06 Popular Article Debanjana Debnath and Rini Labanya

Debanjana Debnath

Faculty of Agriculture, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

Rini Labanya*

Faculty of Agriculture, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

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770 1733320716 Biotica Research Today Kinnow Growing Fetches More Prices in Hot Arid Region Agriculture 964-966

The kinnow has emerged as one of the most economically feasible crops for desert farmers looking to diversify their agricultural practises while also achieving nutrition and financial stability. Adaptability to arid environments, high yield, better quality, rootstock adoptability, low incidence of insects, pests, and diseases, tolerance to abiotic stresses, irrigation facilities, value addition, long productive life for sustainable production, and cheap labour availability make it the hot arid region's preferred crop. However, the hot dry habitat is extremely vulnerable to climatic changes such as high temperatures, high wind speeds, high solar radiation, salty soils, and cold temperatures during the winter, all of which have a negative impact on kinnow production. Farmers are unable to effectively utilise water resources for improved agricultural production due to conventional farming systems, a lack of understanding about efficient practises, and the absence of adaptive cultivars and technology.

Kinnow, Rootstock, Tristeza, Yield NIL 2021-11-07 Popular Article Jagveer Singh and Govind Vishwakarma

Jagveer Singh

School of Agricultural Biotechnology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Govind Vishwakarma*

Dept. of Fruit Science, Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh (284 003), India

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771 1733321796 Biotica Research Today Watermelon Snow - An Alarm of Climate Change Agriculture 979-981

"Watermelon snow" or "Glacier blood" or "Red snow" refers to red-colored snow, caused by bloom of cold-adapted phototrophs, so-called snow algae. Red snow algae- Chlamydomonas nivalis, commonly cause these red snows. The pigment responsible for the red color of adult C. nivalis cells is the secondary carotenoid astaxanthin and its fatty acid ester derivatives. Other causative algal blooms also recently regarded Sanguina sp., which causes unusual orange snow, was also found in Svalbard. The recent researchers found forms of Sanguina sp. algae that cause red snow samples from Europe, North America, and South America along with both Polar Regions. The red snow raises concerns about the rate at which the glaciers will melt away and eventually affect sea-level rise. It was suggested that glaciers should be careful because it absorbs more heat, resulting in which it melts faster.

Chlamydomonas nivalis, Red blood snow, Sea-level rise, Watermelon snow NIL 2021-11-09 Popular Article K.N. Krishnaveni, S. Sudarshan, V. Alamelu, V. Vijayarahavan and S. Vimaladevi

K.N. Krishnaveni*

Dr. MGR. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

S. Sudarshan

Dr. MGR. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

V. Alamelu

Dr. MGR. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

V. Vijayarahavan

Dr. MGR. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

S. Vimaladevi

Dr. MGR. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

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772 1733322125 Biotica Research Today Value Addition to 75 Indian Orchid Species Agriculture 982-995

Orchids account for c. 8% of angiosperm species diversity. Value addition in floriculture increases the economic value and consumer appeal of any floral commodity. In floriculture, value addition is made through genetical changes, processing or diversification. The profitability of a commodity is increased when a raw material is converted into a unique product. . In India, about 1331 species belonging to 186 genera represent about 5.98% of the world orchid flora and 6.83% of the flowering plants in India. In this study, value addition of 75 Indian orchid species is discussed.

Cut flowers, Orchid species, Pot plants, Value addition NIL 2021-11-10 Popular Article L.C. De

L.C. De

ICAR- NRC for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

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773 1733372098 Biotica Research Today Impact of Online Learning on Students Agriculture 996-998

Online learning classes have become a part of the educational system; however, because of the current Covid-19 situation; online lessons are becoming increasingly popular among students. In the pandemic condition ministry of HRD introduce online classes to the students to continue their studies through the internet without visiting physical classes. Online learning has both positive and negative effects on students, according to their perceptions. The current research focuses on the effects of online learning on students. It was discovered that students do not have enough access to online classes and that while they benefit from them, they do not complete their other classwork and assignments on time, which hampered their academic performance.

Academic performance, COVID-19, Online classes, Students NIL 2021-11-10 Popular Article Kshiptimayee Patra

Kshiptimayee Patra

Dept. of Human Development and Family Studies, College of Community Science, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

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774 1733372291 Biotica Research Today Impact of Herbicides Used in Agriculture: Benefits and Hazards Agriculture 999-1001

Herbicides are inevitable for ensuring agricultural productivity, food security, and increasing demand for food safety while maintaining uncontrolled weed growth during crop growth. In general, the degree of persistence of an herbicide is based mainly on the factors like chemical properties of the compound, soil properties, and environmental properties. Half-life is the key factor that controls the dissipation of herbicides from soil and the environment. The fate of herbicide takes place after application in the environment are including biodegradation, chemical degradation, photodegradation, uptake by target or non-target plants, adsorption of herbicide molecules by soil, leaching into the groundwater as well as surface runoff. As herbicides are chemical, some are highly persistent and others are non-biodegradable and are harmful for a long period to soil microbes, water bodies, animals, human beings, and the food chain including the ecosystem.

Degradation, Dissipation, Half-life, Persistence NIL 2021-11-11 Popular Article Kaberi Mahanta, D.J. Rajkhowa, Manoj Kumar and Harendra Verma

Kaberi Mahanta*

Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

D.J. Rajkhowa

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Nagaland (797 106), India

Manoj Kumar

ICAR- Research Complex for Eastern Region, RCM, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

Harendra Verma

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Nagaland (797 106), India

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775 1733372945 Biotica Research Today Conservation Agriculture: A Way to Combat Climate Change Agriculture 1005-1007

Conservation agriculture is an integrated approach to agriculture cultivation that helps enhance food security, allay poverty, conserve biological diversity, and preserve ecosystem services. CA is a set of soil management practices that promotes minimum soil disturbance, diversification of plant species, and surface crop residue retention to reduce soil and environmental degradation while sustaining crop production. It enhances biodiversity and natural biological processes above and below the ground surface, which contribute to increased water and nutrient use efficiency and to improved and sustained crop production. Conservation agriculture (CA) is a sustainable approach to crop production which aims to protect soil from erosion and degradation, improve its quality and contribute to the preservation of natural resources, water and air. CA is one of the many ways for managing resources on the farm to reduce erosion, built resilient soil systems and improve productivity. CA practices are also helpful in making farming systems more resilient to recent climatic changes.

Benefit, Challenges, Climate change, Conservation agriculture NIL 2021-11-12 Popular Article Sunanda Biswas, Priya Singh, Bharat H. Gawade, Saloni Tripathy and Bikramjit Mandal

Sunanda Biswas*

Division of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Priya Singh

Division of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Bharat H. Gawade

Quarantine Division, ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Saloni Tripathy

Division of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Bikramjit Mandal

Division of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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776 1733373447 Biotica Research Today Plant Microbiome: The Unseen Lifeforms Helping Crops Cope with Biotic and Abiotic Stress Agriculture 1008-1010

Microbial diversity or microbiomes have been studied with the goal of understanding their ecological functions and it has become a key determinant on the health, physiology, growth, fitness and yield of crop plants. Manipulation of plant microbiome offers potential to reduce the incidence of plant diseases, increase agricultural productivity, reduce use of chemical inputs and also reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. The term microbiome not only refers to the microorganisms but also their activity in the particular habitat. We highlight the role of microbiomes and their function in the different ecological niches and the scope of manipulating the same in a desirable way.

Beneficial interaction, Microbiome, Plant microbe-interaction, Stress tolerance NIL 2021-11-13 Popular Article Sivapriya, S.L., Akhila P. Subhash, Nandana, M.S., Vigi, S. and Anith, K.N.

Sivapriya, S.L.*

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Akhila P. Subhash

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Nandana, M.S.

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Vigi, S.

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

Anith, K.N.

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala (695 522), India

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777 1733373821 Biotica Research Today Impacts of Xenobiotic Compounds on the Environment Agriculture 1011-1013

Xenobiotic compounds are potential pollutants that can enter in to the environment either in low concentration at micro levels to higher concentrations which are resistant to degradation to a greater extent. These chemicals are extremely toxic in nature and they can have an impact on the survival of both lower and higher eukaryotes. These substances are tenacious and can last for years in the environment, causing bioaccumulation and biomagnification. It also finds their way into food chains, where their concentrations are found to be high even in organisms that do not directly interact with xenobiotics. This paper explains the variety of effects caused by the xenobiotic compounds in the environment.

Endocrine disruptor, Environmental impact, Hazards, Xenobiotics NIL 2021-11-13 Popular Article Bhavani, P., E. Parameswari and M. Maheswari

Bhavani, P.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Maheswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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778 1733375662 Biotica Research Today Biomarkers for Environmental Protection Agriculture 1014-1016

Biomarkers are emerging early warning tools of environmental pollutants. These markers help to detect a pollutant in the early stage of exposure and allows for its management measures to be taken before the environment reaches the stage of critical stage of degradation. At present, Acetylcholine inhibition in the invertebrates, lysosomal conditions, antioxidant substances in living organisms are widely used biomarkers to map pollutants. In depth research is still in this field of science for more improvisations and better understanding of biomarkers to safe guard the environment.

Acetylcholine inhibition, Biomarkers, Early warning tool, Protection NIL 2021-11-14 Popular Article Gnana Keerthi Sahasa R., E. Parameswari and M. Maheswari

Gnana Keerthi Sahasa R.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Maheswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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779 1733376093 Biotica Research Today Bioremediation of Polluted Environment Agriculture 1017-1020

Understanding the bioremediation process which is central to the future of widespread exploitation of microorganisms to reduce the environmental burden of toxic substances is vital and more essential. This paper explains about the principles of bioremediation, its application and types for a better understanding. It also explains about the microbial populations and its role during the bioremediation process. Environmental parameters like nutrient, temperature and moisture content are required in necessary levels, along with the tabulation which elaborated the detailed information about the required parameters in the suitable bioremediation process. And finally the conclusion gives clear cut explanation about the bioremediation which is derived from its advantages and disadvantages.

Bioremediation, Environmental factors, Microbes, Principles NIL 2021-11-14 Popular Article Devadharshini K.P., E. Parameswari and M. Maheswari

Devadharshini K.P.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Maheswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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780 1733376423 Biotica Research Today Immobilization Technique for Wastewater Treatment Agriculture 1021-1024

Immobilized microorganism technology is a relatively recent technology that has been quickly developing since the late 1960’s. It is the employment of chemical or physical techniques to confine cells or enzymes in a confined space maintain it active and allow to be employed repeatedly. Due to its high microbial density, rapid reaction, reduced sludge generation, environmental resistance and the benefits of ease of use, immobilized microorganisms have been extensively researched and used to control reaction processes in the treatment of wastewater.

Absorption, Carriers, Entrapment, Immobilization NIL 2021-11-15 Popular Article Aarthy Sri M., E. Parameswari and M. Maheswari

Aarthy Sri M.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Maheswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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781 1733376712 Biotica Research Today Value Added Products from Food and Kitchen Waste Agriculture 1025-1028

Food and kitchen waste which are ubiquitous across the world and good source of value added products due to its high organic content. Regardless of the presence of numerous conventional techniques like land filling or biogas generation to harness food waste energy, the heterogeneous nature of food and its high moisture content make effective conversion of food to useful resources are practically very difficult. The goal of this paper is to outline the benefits and drawbacks of food waste management. The various social, economic, and environmental issues associated with food waste management have also been discussed, especially in terms of greenhouse gas emissions and increased leachate formation rates. Food waste collection, storage, and bioconversion into valuable by-products have been recognized as a key obstacle to effective waste management. Finally, to emphasize the benefits of food waste management, a range of value-added products generated from food waste following pretreatment are presented.

Food waste, Kitchen waste, Value added products, Waste management NIL 2021-11-15 Popular Article Gowtham, S., E. Parameswari and M. Maheswari

Gowtham, S.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Maheswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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782 1733376969 Biotica Research Today Bioleaching of Heavy Metals and Its Mechanism Agriculture 1029-1030

Sewage sludge, waste water treatment plant sludge and many other wastes contains considerable amounts of heavy metals. It is a prime work to remove all the heavy metals before letting it to the natural resources. The main aim of bioleaching is the removal heavy metals which may be toxic and harms the environment. Bioleaching is a promising (could be progressive) technique that utilizes earth sound advancements that are helpful for the digging business and furthermore for ecological detoxification. In bioleaching, the microorganisms produce a chemical compound which includes natural acids, polymers and proteins. This process also has some potential effects on metal retrieval as well as detoxification of waste materials.

Bioleaching, Complexolysis, Fungus, Yellow Boy pollution NIL 2021-11-16 Popular Article Dharani J., E. Parameswari and M. Maheswari

Dharani J.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Maheswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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783 1733379013 Biotica Research Today Bio-Scrubbers for Environmental Protection Agriculture 1031-1033

Bioscrubbers involves the physical separation of Volatile Organic Compounds and its biological treatment. The waste gas is purified in the absorber called gas liquid contactor, in which the transformation of pollutants takes place from gas to liquid phase. The H2S removal efficiency is higher in the bioscrubber. There are several types of bioscrubbers are discussed here under. Principles involved in the bio scrubbing process are bio transformation and bio-oxidation of pollutants present in air. It contains absorption column, gas liquid phase and liquid contactor. Operations are based on the few parameters like liquid flow rate, gas velocity, filter material, microbes and moisture content. It also has its specific view on the environmental benefits like no usage of chemicals, which does not cause any harm to environment. Advantages and disadvantages of these bioscrubbers and its drawback on removal of gases like H2S, NH3 and VOC are discussed.

Bioscrubber, Biotransformation, Biological treatment, Environmental Protection NIL 2021-11-16 Popular Article Nivedha B., E. Parameswari and M. Maheswari

Nivedha B.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Maheswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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784 1733379863 Biotica Research Today Potentials of Biodegradable Plastics Agriculture 1034-1036

Plastics, kind of polymer which has been largely consumed and dumped in open environment is causing greater problem to our earth. Further the accumulated plastics broken down into micro plastics and Nano plastics which are further multiplying the problem to environment. Thus solution to plastic pollution is the need of an hour. Biodegradable plastics (BPs) gained importance due to their degradation property and minimum adversity to environment. But there is a need to ascertain whether BPs is the hopeful solution for plastic pollution. So, two sides of BPs are discussed in this paper. BPs’ complete degradation is not always possible in the open natural environment.  Also changes in knowledge, awareness, behavior is important for the worldwide application of biodegradable plastics. To conclude, biodegradable plastics may become one of the strategies to fight the plastic pollution but the integrated approach which consists of ecofriendly approaches should be considered and implemented.

Biodegradable plastics, Biodegradation, Conventional Plastics, Plastic pollution NIL 2021-11-17 Popular Article Natha Shree S., E. Parameswari and M. Maheswari

Natha Shree S.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Maheswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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785 1733380116 Biotica Research Today Influence of Climate Change on Coral Reefs Agriculture 1037-1040

Anthropogenic activities like as burning fossil fuels, deforestation and altering land use have had a significant impact on greenhouse gas concentrations such as carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere. Changes in the coral reef ecosystem, as well as declining carbonate ion concentrations have resulted in global warming, ocean circulation, sedimentation, storms and ocean acidification. Coral bleaching will cause loss of diversity, changes in fish community, composition, calcification rates, larval and adult development processes, symbiotic association of organisms, other physiological performance and behaviours of coral reef fishes during early life history are some of the immediate consequences. Reefs will be destroyed geological structures, loss of diversity, and damage the marine ecology if CO2 levels hit 450 ppm (2030-2040 at current rates). Given the importance of coral reefs to the livelihoods of millions of people, efforts like this should be pursued as soon as possible.

Acidification, Climate change, Coral bleaching, Coral Reef NIL 2021-11-17 Popular Article Megala Devi R., E. Parameswari and M. Maheswari

Megala Devi R.

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Maheswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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786 1733380380 Biotica Research Today Biotechnology in Aquaculture Agriculture 1041-1043

Biotechnology and genomics tools are frequently applied to the event of the rearmost curatives against submarine pathogens to not only profit monoculture but also reduce the spread of pathogens to wild stocks. A transgenic, or genetically modified, organism has been altered through recombinant deoxy-ribonucleic acid technology. Biotechnological processes help increase fish products while at a resourceful time reducing the environmental and profitable costs of monoculture.

Chromosomes manipulation, Gene bank, Gene therapy, Genotoxicants NIL 2021-11-18 Popular Article Sumit Mallick

Sumit Mallick

College of Fisheries Science, AAU, Raha, Nagaon, Assam (782 103), India

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787 1733380595 Biotica Research Today Mericloning of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) for Virus Free Plant Production Agriculture 1044-1045

Micropropagation through mericloning using meristem tips is a key strategy for virus free plant production in major crops that would yield genetically stable plants. Meristem cells from root or shoot apices serves as explant source. Potato viruses cause serious impact in production and lead to huge yield loss. Commercial production of disease free potatoes for nutritional and seed purposes demands adoption of combined strategy of mericloning with other therapeutic procedures like thermo/ chemo therapy for large scale propagation.

Disease free, Mericloning, Micropropagation, Potato NIL 2021-11-18 Popular Article Rajesh, S., Varanavasiappan, S. and Manivannan, M.I.

Rajesh, S.*

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Varanavasiappan, S.

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Manivannan, M.I.

TNAU- Horticultural and Forestry Research Station, Fairy Falls road, Kodaikanal,
Tamil Nadu (624 103), India

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788 1733380847 Biotica Research Today Fish Glue: A By-product of Fish Waste Material Agriculture 1046-1048

There has been an increasing interest in fish by-products during the past years. Today it is seen as a potential resource instead of a waste. Much research is being done in order to explore the possible uses of different by-products. Fish glue is impure gelatin (collagen) prepared from fish heads, bones and skins. Fish glue is known for value added product from fish processing by-products as the adhesive agent. Fish wastes resulting from industrial fish processing operations often consists of offal, flesh, skin, bone, entrails, shell etc. If required, fish skin can be preserved by salting and drying before processing into glue; however, fish head should be processed fresh. Collagen is the main component of fish glue. It is a highly viscous liquid at room temperature. Fish glue purity is various depending of the manufacturing process. Fish glue used for furniture, box making etc.

Fish, Fish waste, Glue, Waste material NIL 2021-11-19 Popular Article Vanvi Mansing and B.G. Chudasama

Vanvi Mansing*

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 275), India

B.G. Chudasama

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries Science, Kamdhenu University, Veraval, Gujarat (362 275), India

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789 1733381291 Biotica Research Today Grape Seed Extract as a Potential Antioxidant in Fish and Fishery Products Agriculture 1053-1054

Fishery products like ready-to-cook products and ready-to-eat products always have greater demand in the market. Due to the awareness of the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, consumer’s preference towards fishery products are high in demand. Fish is a highly perishable food and while marketing fishery products, the shelf stability and shelf life of the products are most important things that have to be taken in to consideration. While talking about the storage life of fishery products, there is a major challenge due to the oxidation of the products. Oxidation will cause non-desirable off-flavour. To retard this oxidation many synthetic antioxidants are used but synthetic ones can cause undesirable health effects. So, the use of natural antioxidants that is derived from plants and many plant extracts which are having potential antioxidant capacity can be used as an alternative for this and grape seed extracts is one among the natural antioxidants. At higher concentration grape seed extract can retard the oxidation of fish and fishery products considerably.

Bioactivity, Fishery product, Grape seed extract, Natural antioxidant NIL 2021-11-20 Popular Article Sarojini A.

Sarojini A.

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavaram Milk Colony, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

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790 1733381483 Biotica Research Today Insect Pests of Jatropha curcas and Their Management Agriculture 1055-1058

Jatropha curcas gaining global importance in recent years, the cultivation of this wild plant has increased in several countries of Asia and Africa. It is common to notice several biotic and abiotic constraints when plants from wild are domesticated on wider scale. The new introduction of J. curcas to commercial cultivation left the farmers with several questions on the importance and management of insect pests. Though about 40 insect pests were known to occur on Jatropha, less than 10 are quite frequent in their appearance. At this stage, since the economic importance of the crop as well as pest situation is not well known, farmers often approach extension personnel for appropriate management. Identification, sufficient information on pest biology, extent of damage and economically feasible management options are pre-requisites to initiate any pest management strategy. Close monitoring and early identification of these potential pests is of immense value as the importance of the crop stabilizes globally.

Forest, Insect pests, Jatropha, Management NIL 2021-11-20 Popular Article Mohan C. and Sowmya Priya

Mohan C.*

Division of Forest Protection, Tropical Forest Research Institute (ICFRE), Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 021), India

Sowmya Priya

Palar Agricultural College (TNAU), Vellore, Tamil Nadu (635 805), India

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791 1733381764 Biotica Research Today Quorum Sensing in Gram-Negative Bacteria: An Overview Agriculture 1059-1061

We know bacteria do not exist in solitary cell rather they try to live in colony. They try to communicate with each other by secreting some of chemical signals excreted from cell. The most common signaling molecule found in gram negative bacteria are N-acyl derivatives of homoserine lactone. In this article we try to give a general idea about how bacteria try to communicate with each other to monitor cell density before expressing a particular phenotypic character.

Bacterial signaling, Bioluminescence, Quorum sensing, Vibrio fischeri NIL 2021-11-21 Popular Article Lipilipsa Priyadarshinee and Debasish Pattnaik

Lipilipsa Priyadarshinee*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, S'O'A DU, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Debasish Pattnaik

Dept. of Plant Physiology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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792 1733382032 Biotica Research Today Brassinosteroid: The Potential Steroid Hormone in Crop Improvements Agriculture 1062-1064

Plants being sessile in nature have faced tremendous environmental resistances and biotic stress factors as compared to any other living organisms in the world. The extreme resilience of plants is actually determined by their intricate signaling cascades and intracellular metabolic cross talks. Plants do not possess any humoral immune response and rely mostly on signaling reprogramming. Internal hormonal homeostasis plays a critical role in signal transduction mechanisms and stress tolerance in plants. The physiological and developmental functions carried out by the classical plant hormone e.g., auxins, gibberellic acid, cytokinin, abscisic acid, ethylene, etc. are well documented. Brassinosteroid is the class of emerging plant hormone which is a steroid in nature and has extreme potentiality in crop improvements. Although many physiological functions of this potent plant hormone have been documented but its application in stress is still intangible. In this context, the present article envisages different aspects of this important hormone.

Brassinosteroid, Crop yield, Plant stress, Steroid hormone NIL 2021-11-22 Popular Article Anirban Bhar

Anirban Bhar

Dept. of Botany (Post Graduate), Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Rahara, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 118), India

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793 1733382562 Biotica Research Today Impact of Land Use and Land Cover Changes on Biofuel Production and Vice-Versa Agriculture 1068-1069

Biofuel is a green sustainable energy source that is made from living materials or mass, such as sugar cane, corn and edible or non-edible oils. India is rich in biomass due to its diverse climatic conditions, and most of the Indian peoples have tradition of utilization of bio-fuels from ancient time but inefficient use of these traditional biofuels lead to a create some health problems. The increasing population creates pressure on the present land use/ land cover (LULC) configuration of the earth to fulfil the increasing demand for biofuels. This article focuses on relation between biofuel demand and land use cover changes according to that.

Biodiesel, Biofuel, Feedstock, Land Use Land Cover NIL 2021-11-24 Popular Article Lal Chand Malav, Brijesh Yadav, Mahaveer Nogiya, R. L. Meena, R. S. Meena and B. L. Mina

Lal Chand Malav*

ICAR- National Bureau of Soil Survey & Land Use Planning, RC, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

Brijesh Yadav

ICAR- National Bureau of Soil Survey & Land Use Planning, RC, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

Mahaveer Nogiya

ICAR- National Bureau of Soil Survey & Land Use Planning, RC, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

R. L. Meena

ICAR- National Bureau of Soil Survey & Land Use Planning, RC, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

R. S. Meena

ICAR- National Bureau of Soil Survey & Land Use Planning, RC, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

B. L. Mina

ICAR- National Bureau of Soil Survey & Land Use Planning, RC, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

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794 1733382841 Biotica Research Today Land Suitability Classification and Suitability Requirements of Major Crops Grown in Kerala Agriculture 1070-1072

Land suitability assessment is a land evaluation method proposed by Food and Agriculture Organization to assess the suitability of land for agriculture uses using scientifically standard techniques. Land suitability assessment is the process of matching appropriateness of land for certain uses. Land suitability assessment is needed for preserving the quality of land for future generation. Land suitability assessment trials have been conducted across the country based on current soil and land conditions, without applying any input and land suitability requirement of major crops has been determined at regional scale. The major properties considered for establishing suitability of land assessment for agricultural use are topography, erosion, soil depth, soil texture, soil depth, nutrient status etc. Based on the assessment, the land suitability requirements of major crops of Kerala i.e., paddy, coconut, arecanut, pepper, banana, pineapple, tapioca, rubber has been established. Better economic benefits from crops without hampering the land sustainability can be achieved by cultivating crops in suitable areas.

FAO, Land suitability assessment, Major crops of Kerala, Soil properties NIL 2021-11-25 Popular Article Aswathy S. Nair, B. R. Krishnasree and Durga C.

Aswathy S. Nair*

Kerala State Disaster Management Authority, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 033), India

B. R. Krishnasree

The Indian Agriculture College, Radhapuram, Tamil Nadu (629 191), India

Durga C.

Dept. of Agronomy, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India

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795 1733383183 Biotica Research Today Transglutaminase as an Effective Protein Binder for Restructured Fishery Products Agriculture 1073-1074

There is always a growing demand for fish and fishery products in the market. Consumption of red meat and meat products are not always good for human health but fish is rich in easily digestible and nutritionally rich first class animal protein which is very important in human health diet. Due to the increasing demand for fresh products in the fishery markets, there is a production of restructured fish products which have the appearance of fresh fish have gained an importance. These are the analog products which can be prepared from underutilized fish species, by-catch fishes, low value fishes and by-product wastes from processing industries after the filleting process of commercial fishes. The major important thing in producing this analog product is the appearance and the texture of the products. Microbial transglutaminase is an enzyme used to bind the protein in the preparation of restructured fishery products or meat analog products.

Analog product, Protein binder, Restructured product, Transglutaminase NIL 2021-11-26 Popular Article Sarojini A. and Vijayarahavan V.

Sarojini A.*

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavaram Milk Colony, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Vijayarahavan V.

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

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796 1733383776 Biotica Research Today Seagrass Ecosystem: Creating the Foundation of Life! Agriculture 1075-1079

Seagrass are the important components of the food web, and it serves as feeding & breeding grounds for thousands of species around the world, and they support various food webs in different ways. The meadows of seagrass helps in climate change, carbon sequestration, extract and carry marine plastic which is now the biggest issue for marine life. If the seagrass ecosystems are degraded/ damaged directly or indirectly by anthropogenic activities, the capacity of carbon holding is lost or adversely affected, and the carbon stored in the soil is released, resulting in CO2, which is the major gasses for global warming. This article highlighted the importance of seagrass meadows, and some of their restoration methods.

Blue carbon, Climate change, Restoration, Seagrass meadows NIL 2021-11-27 Popular Article Swati Priyadarsini and Jackqulin Wino A.

Swati Priyadarsini*

Dept. of Fisheries Resource Management, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, (Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam), Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Jackqulin Wino A.

Dept. of Aquaculture, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, (Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Nagapattinam), Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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797 1733384272 Biotica Research Today Genetics of Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) in Rice Agriculture 1083-1085

Nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is defined as the output of any plant per unit of nitrogen applied under a specified set of soil and climatic conditions. Due to the mobile nature of nitrogen, the N-loss from the soil is greater than any other element. Several agronomical management practices are being followed in rice to increase nitrogen use efficiency. But, these practices are not giving a permanent solution. Therefore, the development of nitrogen use efficient (NUE) rice varieties is inevitable for the sustainability of the environment and economic agricultural practices. Many genomic regions (QTLs) associated with NUE have been investigated in rice to improve the NUE by genome mapping. The future breeding programme needs to incorporate advanced molecular approaches like marker-assisted selection, genome editing, high-throughput sequencing, and genetic engineering to gain a deep understanding of the genetic mechanism and dissection of the suitable traits to develop an efficient rice genotype for an N-limited environment.

Genetic engineering, Genome editing, Nitrogen use efficiency, Rice NIL 2021-11-28 Popular Article Biswaranjan Patra, Prasanta Kumar Majhi, Ayaz Ahamad and Partha Pratim Behera

Biswaranjan Patra

Center for Biotechnology, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Prasanta Kumar Majhi*

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Regional Research and Technology Transfer Station, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Keonjhar, Odisha (758 002), India

Ayaz Ahamad

Biosciences Group, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 094), India

Partha Pratim Behera

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

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798 1733384551 Biotica Research Today World on Alert: WHO Designated South African New COVID Strain (Omicron/B.1.1.529) as a Variant of Concern Agriculture 1086-1088

South African researchers are trying to track a worrisome rise in a new variant of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus causing COVID-19. This subspecies contains numerous mutations found in other subspecies, including Delta, and appears to be spreading rapidly in South Africa. The top priority is to track variants more closely when they are distributed. It is first confirmed in Botswana and has appeared to travellers arriving from South Africa to Hong Kong. Scientists are also trying to understand the characteristics of mutants, such as whether they can avoid the immune response caused by the vaccine and whether they cause more severe illness than other mutants. On November 26, the World Health Organization (WHO) designated the strain, known as B.1.1.529, as a variant of concern and named it Omicron. Omicron joins Delta, Alpha, Beta and Gamma on the current WHO list of variants of concern.

B.1.1.529, COVID, Omicron, Variant of concern NIL 2021-11-29 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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799 1733463259 Biotica Research Today December (2021) Scientific Management Practices of Mithun Agriculture 1099-1102

Mithun (Bos frontalis), the unique bovine species of the northeastern hilly region of India. It is an integral part of the tribal people and is considered a unique micro-enterprise with potential benefits. Mithun is presently reared under a free-range forest ecosystem; however, with the decreasing forest coverage in this region, it is imperative to adopt a semi-intensive rearing system. Scientific management practices such as the construction of sheds, selection, feeding roughages and concentrate, deworming, vaccination, artificial insemination and record-keeping are beneficial to maximize the profit. Some of the strategies that are required for the scientific management of mithun are discussed.

Artificial insemination, Disease, Estrus, Mineral NIL 2021-12-05 Popular Article Vikram R., M. H. Khan, Vivek Joshi and Sabyasachi Mukherjee

Vikram R.*

ICAR- National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Dimapur, Nagaland (797 106), India

M. H. Khan

ICAR- National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Dimapur, Nagaland (797 106), India

Vivek Joshi

ICAR- National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Dimapur, Nagaland (797 106), India

Sabyasachi Mukherjee

ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana (132 001), India

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800 1733464192 Biotica Research Today December (2021) Seaweed Based Edible Packaging Materials for Food Agriculture 1103-1105

Packaging is important for foods to protect it from any damage and keeps it safe until use. There are different varieties of packaging materials are used and plastic are the commonly used one among them. The use of plastic increasing significantly and it affects the environment very badly. It leads to accumulation in land and ocean and it is not biodegradable. So, there is a gaining interest to increase the use of biopolymers which are biodegradable. Recently, the application of seaweed polysaccharides gained importance because of its beneficial properties.

Edible films, Edible packaging, Seaweed coatings, Seaweed polysaccharides NIL 2021-12-06 Popular Article Sarojini A., Gajendra and Vijayarahavan V.

Sarojini A.*

Paraprofessional Institute of Fisheries Technology, TNJFU, Madhavaram Milk Colony, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 051), India

Gajendra

College of Fisheries, KVAFSU, Mangaluru, Karnataka (575 002), India

Vijayarahavan V.

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNJFU, Thalainayeru, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (614 712), India

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801 1733464450 Biotica Research Today December (2021) Nano-Biosensors: Applications in Agriculture and Allied Fields Agriculture 1106-1109

Nano-biosensor is the modified version of biosensor which uses nanomaterials i.e., nanoparticles and nanostructures. Because of unique physicochemical properties of nanomaterials, nano-biosensor is highly selective, sensitive, stable, and accurate and can be used for in-situ real time monitoring for need-driven purposes. This technology enables us to detect the pesticides, metals, toxins and plant metabolites at a very low concentration. Nano-based sensor technology has a lot of scope in sustainable agriculture because it may help to monitor and develop smart delivery system for fertilizer and plant protection chemicals which releases the inputs in a controlled manner. This technology can also be used in livestock and fisheries sector for real time quality and safety monitoring. However, their use is still confined at laboratory and research level. So, policy intervention is required for their mass recommendation at field level and commercial utilization.

Gen-next technology, Nanosensor, Pollution abatement, Real-time monitoring NIL 2021-12-09 Popular Article Ajoy Saha and Debarati Bhaduri

Ajoy Saha

ICAR-CIFRI, Regional Centre, Bengaluru, Karnataka (560 089), India

Debarati Bhaduri*

ICAR-NRRI, Cuttack, Odisha (753 006), India

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802 1733464868 Biotica Research Today December (2021) Cherry Tomato: An Underexploited Salad Vegetable Agriculture 1110-1112

Cherry tomato is a potential vegetable crop which is used for salad purpose. It is rich in vitamins and flavonoids and has high demand in big cities. It is a warm season crop and requires high temperature. During winter season, it can be grown under protected condition as off-season vegetable to earn good profit. A number of varieties both from private and public sector are available in the market for cultivation. The detail information of its usage and scientific cultivation has been compiled in this article.

Cherry Tomato, Salad, Vegetable, Vitamin C NIL 2021-12-10 Popular Article Manish Kumar and Manpreet Kaur

Manish Kumar

Maharana Pratap Horticultural University, Karnal, Haryana (132 001), India

Manpreet Kaur*

CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh (176 062), India

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803 1733465344 Biotica Research Today December (2021) Fusarium Leaf Blight and Wilt is a New Threat to Kharif Groundnut in Rajasthan Agriculture 1117-1118

Fusarium leaf blight and wilt of groundnut is a new emerging fungal disease particularly of kharif season in western Rajasthan, India. Fusarium spp. has wide host range causing wilts, blights and necrosis of numerous crops. This disease significantly affects groundnut haulm and pod yield and their quality. This disease occurs in patches at later stages of groundnut crop and their severity is varying from 5-52% at farmers’ field. In disease management practices, now effective chemical control measures are not available but efforts are being done for the control of this disease through various combinations of fungicides in addition to bio-control measures, cultural practices and host plant resistance. Now efforts are being done to identify resistance source for developing high yielding groundnut cultivars with resistance of Fusarium leaf blight and wilt.

Fusarium, Groundnut, Leaf blight, Wilt NIL 2021-12-14 Popular Article Narendra Kumar, B.D.S. Nathawat and Raja Ram Choudhary

Narendra Kumar*

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research - Regional Station, Bikaner, Rajasthan (334 006), India

B.D.S. Nathawat

Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University - Agricultural Research Station, Bikaner, Rajasthan (334 006), India

Raja Ram Choudhary

ICAR- Directorate of Groundnut Research - Regional Station, Bikaner, Rajasthan (334 006), India

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804 1733466389 Biotica Research Today December (2021) Ecological Engineering as an Emerging Technology for the Management of Insect-Pests Agriculture 1127-1128

Ecological engineering is a human activity that modifies the environment based on ecological principles. It is a useful conceptual framework for considering the practice of habitat manipulation for pest management. The form of ecological engineering presents an attractive option for the design of sustainable agro-ecosystems and it is also less risky. Ecological engineering can be complemented by other methods and should not be promoted as a standalone method. Commonly these will employ biological control agents that have been released in classical or augmentative manners. In such instances habitat management holds considerable potential for enhancing the success rates of classical agents, and to maximize the persistence and impact on pest population of augmentative agents. In the near future, these formerly separate branches of biological control will be merged to synergistic effect in “integrated biological control”.

Ecosystem, Habitat manipulation, Insect pests, Natural enemies NIL 2021-12-17 Popular Article Mohan C.

Mohan C.

Division of Forest Protection, Tropical Forest Research Institute (ICFRE), Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 021), India

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805 1733549039 Biotica Research Today December (2021) Reverse Breeding Agriculture 1158-1159

Reverse breeding is a novel plant breeding technique design to directly produce parental lines for any heterozygous plant, one of the most striven after goals in plant breeding. Reverse breeding generates perfectly complimenting homozygous parental lines through engineered meiosis in reverse genes with proven record. In this technique the end product is a F1 hybrid and the end product of reverse breeding will be similar to parental lines obtained through conventional breeding. This method will replace the traditional method of seed production in future.

Conventional breeding, Engineered meiosis, F1 hybrid, Seed production NIL 2021-12-28 Popular Article Satyam Pathak, Manoj Tiwari and Ashim Debnath

Satyam Pathak

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Manoj Tiwari

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Ashim Debnath*

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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806 1733549659 Biotica Research Today December (2021) CRISPR-Cas9 Genome Editing System Agriculture 1165-1166

CRISPR/Cas9 is a versatile genome-editing tool that has been used to investigate the function of genetic components, create genetically modified creatures, and conduct preclinical research on genetic illnesses. It is a new approach that may precisely and accurately change any section of any species without affecting other gene. In this article, we look at the molecular mechanism, applications, and problems of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing, as well as the future clinical pharmacological properties of CRISPR/Cas9.

Cas9 gene, CRISPR, Genome editing, Molecular Mechanism NIL 2021-12-29 Popular Article Poonam Sharma, Parshant Kumar Sharma, Priya Sharma, O.P. Verma and Ashim Debnath

Poonam Sharma

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Parshant Kumar Sharma

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Priya Sharma

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

O.P. Verma

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Ashim Debnath*

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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807 1733550993 Biotica Research Today December (2021) Speed Breeding: A Contemporary Era of Revolution Agriculture 1172-1173

In the absence of an integrated pre-breeding programme, it takes more than ten (10) years for obtaining a new and high yield performing cultivar having desired characters with great market demand. So far, in the early phase of breeding a significant amount of space, time and resources invested in the selection and genetic advancement in crop improvement. Speed breeding has the potential to reduce the time required for cultivar development, release and commercialization. The objective of this article is to present key opportunities and challenges of speed breeding to guide pre-breeding and breeding programmes. Key challenges of speed breeding includes: access to suitable facilities, staff trained in the protocol, adopting major changes to breeding programme design and operations. The current article highlights the potential advantages of speed breeding for the successful development and release of cultivars in 5 years versus 10-12 years when using conventional breeding methods.

Commercialization, Genetic advancement, Pre-breeding, Resource utilization NIL 2021-12-30 Popular Article Abhishek Dwivedi, Sajan Kumar, Roshani Singh, Neha Jha, Vinod Singh and Ashim Debnath

Abhishek Dwivedi

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Sajan Kumar

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Roshani Singh

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Neha Jha

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Vinod Singh

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

Ashim Debnath*

Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh (224 229), India

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808 1733723027 Innovative Farming July-September (2021) Plant Disease Responses to Climate Change Plant Pathology 111-122

Environmental shift is a growing concern for communities related to agriculture across the world. The present paper looks into the impacts of shifts in climate on plant diseases. The three major constituents of any crop disease are the host (the plant) the pathogen inciting the disease, and the environmental factors. All these three elements are greatly affected by changes in climate that can lead to a surge in the occurrence and intensity of crop diseases. The paper highlights that escalating temperatures, changed patterns of rainfall and intense weather events can all create conditions that favour the growth and spread of phytopathogens. This can lead to substantial yield losses for farmers and put global food security at risk. The paper also discusses the economic consequences of crop diseases, noting that phytopathogens and insect pests are assessed to cause nearly US$ 220 billion in annual losses.

The author argues that a better understanding of how climate shifts affect the connection and correlation between pathogens, crop plants and the environment is necessary to develop strategies for mitigating crop disease risks. He calls for research into the molecular, epidemiological and ecological interactions between these factors. This research can inform the development of climate-durable farming procedures that can assist in ensuring food surety in a fluctuating climate.

Agriculture, Climate change, Crop losses, Pathogens, Plant diseases NIL 2021-08-27 Review Articles Jai P. Rai

Jai P. Rai*

Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, RG South Campus, Barkachha, Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh (231 001), India

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809 1733808009 Biotica Research Today Importance of Nickel in Plant Nitrogen Metabolism Agriculture 465-467

Nickel (Ni) is a very critical micronutrient for plants and more importantly linked with nitrogen (N) metabolism, involved indirectly as a trace element. An essential and direct function of Ni is as a co-factor for enzymes; such as, urease, which facilitates the conversion of urea into usable forms of nitrogen helping assimilation and recycling of N within the plant. It has been associated with some other enzymatic activities that are necessary for amino acid synthesis, protein metabolism and secondary metabolite production. Besides, Ni also involves abiotic stress tolerance due to enhanced catalysis of antioxidant enzymes against oxidative stress to maintain stability in the metabolism under stressed conditions. More recently found is the role of Ni in increasing N use efficiency which has made it significant in sustainable agriculture aimed at reducing dependence on fertilizers.

Nickel, Nitrogen, Urea, Ureide NIL 2024-11-10 Popular Article Abhik Patra, R.P. Singh, B.K. Singh, Ratul Moni Ram and Ashutosh Kumar

Abhik Patra*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiyaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

R.P. Singh

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiyaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

B.K. Singh

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiyaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

Ratul Moni Ram

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiyaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

Ashutosh Kumar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Narkatiyaganj, West Champaran, Bihar (845 455), India

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810 1733808346 Biotica Research Today Reservoir Fisheries Assessment Tools: A Requisite for Reservoir Management Agriculture 468-470

Reservoir fisheries assessment requires various scientific tools that qualify the management status and health status of the reservoir. These scientific tools comprehend vast information about the various aspects of the reservoir fisheries. This paper attempts to introduce some of the scientific tools popular for reservoir fisheries assessment.

FBI, IBI, RFAI, RFMI NIL 2024-11-15 Popular Article Thankam Theresa Paul, Tanuja Abdulla and Deepa Sudheesan

Thankam Theresa Paul*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

Tanuja Abdulla

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

Deepa Sudheesan

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, Kerala (682 018), India

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811 1733826849 Innovative Farming Assessment of Growth Dynamics in Different Mulberry Genotypes at 12 and 15 Months after Plantation (MAP) for Pulp and Paper Production Sericulture 47-53

India has huge need for growing wood products, driven by urbanization and forest protectant act which is need for creation of domestic plantation system. The present study assesses the growth attributes of 21 mulberry genotypes at two different periods such as 12 and 15 months after plantation (MAP) to screen the superior genotype for pulp and paper industry. This research utilized a Randomized Block Design with five replications conducted at the Forest College and Research Institute, part of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. Key growth traits measured by plant height, basal diameter, diameter at breast height (DBH) and volume. Among the genotypes significant variations were observed with plant height, basal diameter, diameter at breast height and volume from 2.15 to 5.67 m, 41.04 to 53.46 mm, 27.61 to 43.25 mm and 0.0007 to 0.0039 m3, respectively at 15 MAP. Across the all the parameter the mulberry genotype MI-0845 has superior growth performance for pulp and paper production. This investigation highlights the potential of targeted genotype evaluation in enhancing mulberry wood productivity and quality, contributing to sustainable agro-forestry practices in India.

Genotypes, Growth dynamics, Mulberry, Paper production, Pulp NIL 2023-04-15 Research Articles Manickavasagam Mithilasri and K.T. Parthiban

Manickavasagam Mithilasri*

Centre for Climate Change and Disaster Management (CCC&DM), Anna University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (600 025), India

K.T. Parthiban

Dept. of Agroforestry, Forest College and Research Institute, Mettupalayam, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

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812 1733914735 Biotica Research Today Optimizing Okra Yield: A Guide to Effective Cultivation for Enhanced Income and Food Security Agriculture 471-474

Abelmoschus esculentus, commonly known as Lady's finger or Okra, is considered as the most significant vegetable crop that can increase the income of small-scale farmers in the tropical and subtropical regions. Because of its widespread acceptance, ease of cultivation and high nutritional value, it is advantageous for both farmers and sustainable farming methods. This article explores the ways to optimise the production of okra, including integrated pest and disease management, better cultivars, appropriate growing conditions and advanced sowing techniques. In seeking to enhance productivity of okra cultivation, strengthen crop resilience and further the overarching goal of food security and economic viability of rural farming communities, farmers and researchers are offered timely and evidence-based insights. Sustainability practices including efficient nutrient management and irrigation highlight okra's role in both the economic development and environmental sustainability.

Disease management, Okra cultivation, Pest control, Yield NIL 2023-11-20 Popular Article Ashwini Mankar, Mili Pusdekar, S.S. Potdar, A.F. Bhogave and R.V. Mahajan

Ashwini Mankar*

Dept. of Agril. Botany, Anand Niketan College of Agriculture, Warora, Chandrapur, Maharashtra (442 914), India

Mili Pusdekar

Dept. of Horticulture, Anand Niketan College of Agriculture, Warora, Chandrapur, Maharashtra (442 914), India

S.S. Potdar

Dept. of Soil Science & Agril. Chemistry, Anand Niketan College of Agriculture, Warora, Chandrapur, Maharashtra (442 914), India

A.F. Bhogave

 

Dept. of Horticulture, Anand Niketan College of Agriculture, Warora, Chandrapur, Maharashtra (442 914), India

R.V. Mahajan

Dept. of Agronomy, Anand Niketan College of Agriculture, Warora, Chandrapur, Maharashtra (442 914), India

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813 1733979087 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Protected Cultivation of Cut Foliage’s in Subtropical Regions Agriculture 161-162

Cut-foliage industry has made a major breakthrough in floriculture business. In general, Cutfoliages (leaves and stems), which are attractive in form, colour and freshness, are lasting and in great demand. Cut foliages are used as fillers along with cut flowers in flower arrangements and elsewhere for increasing aesthetic value. Cut foliages commercially cultivated in protected condition are Draceana reflexa, Phyllo Dendron xanadu, Nephrolepis exalta, Aspargus densiflorus var. Springer, Asparagus setaceous, Asparagus densiflorus var. Mayers, Box wood and Ferns.

cutfoliage, fillers, scenerio, cultivation NIL 2020-05-02 Popular Article Anand. M , P.R. Kamalkumaran, M. Velmurugan and S. Nanthakumar

Anand. M *

Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud-636 602, Tamil Nadu, India

P.R. Kamalkumaran

Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud-636 602, Tamil Nadu, India

M. Velmurugan

Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore- 641003, Tamil Nadu, India

S. Nanthakumar

Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud-636 602, Tamil Nadu, India

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814 1733979648 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue APPLICATION OF NANOTECHNOLOGY IN AGRICULTURE Agriculture 163-165

Nanotechnology has an extraordinary potential, as it can upgrade the personal satisfaction through its applications in different fields like agribusiness and the nourishment framework. Around the globe it has become the eventual fate of any country. In any case, we should be cautious with any new innovation to be presented in regards to its conceivable unanticipated related dangers that may get through its positive potential. In any case, it is additionally basic for the eventual fate of a country to create a prepared future workforce in nanotechnology. In this procedure, to illuminate people in general everywhere about its points of interest is the initial step; it will bring about an enormous increment in intrigue and new applications in all the areas will be found. With this thought, the current article has been composed. There is an extraordinary potential in nanoscience and innovation in the arrangement of cutting edge answers for different difficulties looked by agriculture today and later on. Environmental change, urbanization, manageable utilization of regular assets and natural issues like overflow and collection of pesticides and composts are the hot issues for the present agriculture.

Nanotechnology, Nanofertilizer, Bioremediation, Photocatalysis NIL 2020-05-02 Popular Article Neelam Singh, Ekta Joshi, Deep Singh Sasode and Namrata Chouhan

Neelam Singh*

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior- 474002 (M.P.) India

Ekta Joshi

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior- 474002 (M.P.) India

Deep Singh Sasode

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior- 474002 (M.P.) India

Namrata Chouhan

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior- 474002 (M.P.) India

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815 1733980259 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Open Field Cut Flowers- Alstroemeria Agriculture 166-167

Alstroemeria an uprising crop in cut flower industry.Alstroemeria is becoming popular as a new cut flower crop in our country. South America is the place of origin of this flower which belongs to the family Alstroemeriaceae.In India majority of alstroemeria is cultivated in hilly regions of Himachal Pradesh , Jammu and Kashmir,The Nilgiris . Lately by the increase in the cost of production of cut flowers grown under protected conditions has led the farmers for open cultivation of flowers like alstroemeria,  bird of paradise and gladiolus etc. Cultural practices like planting, Nutrition, thinning and pinching operation should be followed regularly and the yield range from 180-400 stems/m2/year depending on variety.

Alstroemeria, Cultural practices, Yield NIL 2020-05-02 Popular Article Anand. M, P.R. Kamalkumaran and S. Nanthakumar

Anand. M *

Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud-636 602, Tamil Nadu, India

P.R. Kamalkumaran

Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud-636 602, Tamil Nadu, India

S. Nanthakumar

Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud-636 602, Tamil Nadu, India

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816 1733980634 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Scope And Importance of Vertical Garden in India Agriculture 168-170

Vegetables are the cheapest source of protective foods contributing carbohydrates, vitamins and mineral salts in the human diet.The population increases are causing our farmers to run out of land.Here is the need to produce more vegetables in a limited area is the trend to make sustainability, in this continuation the vegetable were started to cultivating in the vertical/terrace / roof / kitchen garden etc., among all the newer systems of vegetable cultivation vertical garden is one of the important and potent for sustainable vegetable production in the urban areas to mitigate the per capita availability. The construction of vertical gardens is recommended both in interiors and especially in the exterior of buildings. By applying these technologies, any kind of area can be used at its maximum capacity, obtaining esthetic valences, benefic for environment and human health.

Vertical garden,Sustainable,Vegetable production,Nutritional security. NIL 2020-05-03 Popular Article P. R. Kamalkumaran, M. Anand and S. Nanthakumar

P. R. Kamalkumaran*

Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud-636602, Tamil Nadu, India

M. Anand

Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud-636602, Tamil Nadu, India

S. Nanthakumar

Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud-636602, Tamil Nadu, India

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817 1733980956 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Impact of Agriculture Crop Residue Burning on Environment and Soil Health Agriculture 171-173

There are 115 million operational holdings in the country and about 80 % are marginal and small farmers. To fulfil the basic needs of house hold including food, feed, fodder, fibre, etc. were an attention about bio intensive cropping system (BICS). Global warming and its consequences are amongst the most serious problems of the present century. Agricultural crop residue burning contribute towards the emission of greenhouse gases (CO2, N2O, CH4, CFCs), air pollutants (CO, NH3, NOx, SO2, NMHC), volatile organic compounds, particulates matter and smoke thereby posing threat to human health. Total amount of residue generated in 2008– 09 was 620 Mt out of which ~15.9% residue was burnt on farm. Rice straw contributed 40% of the total residue burnt followed by wheat straw (22%) and sugarcane trash (20%). Conservation agriculture and recommended management practices (RMPs) collectively are helpful to offset part of the emissions due to unscientific agricultural practices.

Crop Residue, Burning, Environment, Soil Health NIL 2020-05-03 Popular Article Rohitashav Nagar, Dr. S. K. Trivedi, Deepak Nagar, Dr. Monika Karnawat

Rohitashav Nagar*

Department of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324005)

Dr. S. K. Trivedi

Department of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324005)

Deepak Nagar

Department of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324005)

Dr. Monika Karnawat

Department of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324005)

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818 1733981481 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Revolution of Indian agriculture through Drone technology Agriculture 174-176

In recent years agricultural production has increased substantially and mostly fuelled by an increase in global population from 7 to 9 billion people by 2050, the demand for agricultural products has be estimated to increased by 69 percent during the same time frame. Limiting workload, costs of goods and maximizing yields will be vitally important in the achieving the higher growth of agricultural sector in the Asia-Pacific region. Hence, to fill the gap between current agricultural production and the needs of the future, drone technology and advanced image data analytics with the capabilities is the only feasible answer for this urgent call for increased agricultural production.

Agricultural productivity, Crop insurance, Drone technology. NIL 2020-05-03 Popular Article Ekta Joshi, Deep Singh Sasode, Neelam Singh and Namrata Chouhan

Ekta Joshi*

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior-474 002 (MP), India

Deep Singh Sasode

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior-474 002 (MP), India

Neelam Singh

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior-474 002 (MP), India

Namrata Chouhan

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior-474 002 (MP), India

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819 1733981823 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Organic Farming and its Future Agriculture 177-179

All spiders are predatory eight-legged creatures that have organs to spin silk at the back ends of their bodies. They are the largest part of the Arachnid family, a group that also includes scorpions and ticks. There are about 40,000 known species of spiders. Most spiders use a web to catch their prey, which are usually insects. The most characteristic feature of spiders is their ability to produce silken threads. Applications and uses of spider silk in various fields especially medical, industrial, and armed services is increasing day by day.

Organic Farming, Certification, Organic Food, Sustainable Production References NIL 2020-05-03 Popular Article Rohitashav Nagar, S.K. Trivedi, Deepak Nagar and Monika Karnawat

Rohitashav Nagar*

Dept. of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

S.K. Trivedi

Dept. of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

Deepak Nagar

Dept. of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

Monika Karnawat

Dept. of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

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820 1733982734 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Tuber cropsin ensuring nutritional security among the rural population Agriculture 180-183

            Tuber crops have a higher biological efficiency and show the highest rate of dry matter production per day per unit area among all the crops. Roots and tubers are important diet components for humans and acknowledged world over with great potentials, foremost of which is its promise to offer food security to scores of millions of vulnerable resource limited people. Although these crops are generally associated with poverty, their prospects do not end with the poor. The developed world receives benefits from these crops, unknowingly because of the different forms by which they may be traded, e.g., starch, chips, frozen items, etc. Root crops are capable of efficient production of low cost calories under marginal soil conditions. They are very tolerant of stresses and play important roles in the diversified farming systems. As population pressure on the land increases, the importance of root crops has grown and hence they will play more vital roles in the regions food security.

Tuber, Root crops, Nutrition, Food security. NIL 2020-05-04 Popular Article P.R.Kamalkumaran, M. Anand and S. Nanthakumar

P.R.Kamalkumaran*

Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud-636602, Tamil Nadu, India

M. Anand

Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud-636602, Tamil Nadu, India

S. Nanthakumar

Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud-636602, Tamil Nadu, India

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821 1733983570 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue VERTICAL FARMING TECHNOLOGY Agriculture 187-189

The vertical farming is a world-changing development. It is a way of smart farming which makes an enormous commitment for food sustainability for 21stcentury. Vertical farming is considered as a cutting edge device for taking care of growing total population by year of 2050. The farm is erected in close proximity to the individuals which it serves by accessibility of less expensive, disease free and organic crops nearby supporting the limited natural resources. Increasing demand for food and diminishing arable grounds poses one of the greatest challenges. Vertical farming is the urban method of cultivating crops inside a structure in a city or urban focus, wherein the floors are intended to suit certain crops. These statures will go about as future homestead/farm lands and that they can worked by countries with next to zero arable land, changing countries which are as of now unfit to cultivate into top food producers.

Vertical farming, Innovation, Sustainability, Organic NIL 2020-05-04 Popular Article Neelam Singh, Ekta Joshi, Deep Singh Sasode and Namrata Chouhan

Neelam Singh*

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior- 474002 (M.P.) India

Ekta Joshi

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior- 474002 (M.P.) India

Deep Singh Sasode

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior- 474002 (M.P.) India

Namrata Chouhan

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior- 474002 (M.P.) India

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822 1733983833 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue METHODS OF LAWN MAKING Agriculture 190-192

Lawn is known as green carpet and serves as the basic feature of any landscape garden. This mainly brings the integrity among the garden components and breaks the monotony. There are more than five grass species are available in the nurseries and recently Paspalum vaginatum is suited for open sunny locations and withstand salinity. Among the different methods of lawn making seeding method is seldom practiced because poor seed germination and delay in establishment. Dibbling is most commonly adopted method by the landscapers and turfing is followed as instantaneous method. Astro turf is an artificial method employed in airports and sports grounds where no maintenance is required at all.

lawn making, turfing, dibbling, Astro turf NIL 2020-05-04 Popular Article M. Velmurugan, M. Anand, V. Davamani, K. Rajamani and L. Pugalendhi

Velmurugan*

Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (641003), Tamil Nadu, India

M. Anand

Horticulture Research Station, Yercaud (636 602), Salem, Tamil Nadu, India

V. Davamani

Department of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (641003), Tamil Nadu, India

K. Rajamani

Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (625601), Tamil Nadu, India

L. Pugalendhi

Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (625601), Tamil Nadu, India

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823 1733984266 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Major Insect-Pests of Groundnut and Their Control Measures Agriculture 193-197

The weather and pests in a given season plays a significant role in determination of crop productivity because the crop and its pests are sensitive to extreme weather events. It is assumed that the crop and the pests in their occurrence and abundance are likely to change with the changing climate. The crop productivity of rainfed groundnut cultivation in different regions is hampered and highly reduced due to intermittent drought and seed contamination with aflatoxin and biotic stresses from insect pests and foliar fungus diseases. Hence, to suggest a suitable eco friendly management the identification, nature of damage of insect-pests of groundnut crop becomes inevitable.

Chemical control, Groundnut, Integrated pest management, Storage pest. NIL 2020-05-05 Popular Article Ekta Joshi

Ekta Joshi*

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior-474 002 (MP), India

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824 1733984502 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Cassava: Drought tolerant tuber crop Agriculture 198-200

Cassava one of the drought tolerant tuber crops successfully cultivated in marginal soils. Cassava is the third most important source of calories, after rice and maize. In India, it is cultivated mainly in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The recently developed varieties viz., Tapioca Yethapur 1, Tapioca Yethapur 2, Sree Pavithra, Sree Raksha 1 and Sree Raksha 2 are highly suited for commercial cultivation. This crop requires minimal cultural requirements and with the adoption of recent technologies, farmers can get premium price in the market. After harvest, the tubers are processed in industries and used for the making array of products viz., sago, dextrin, glucose, core binder, stabilizer, adhesives, sizing yarns, as thickener for printing clothes and etc.,

Cassava, drought tolerance, tuber, starch NIL 2020-05-05 Popular Article M. Velmurugan, L. Pugalendhi and S. Manickam

M. Velmurugan*

Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (641003), Tamil Nadu, India

L. Pugalendhi

Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (625601), Tamil Nadu, India

S. Manickam

Department of Crop Management, Agricultural College & Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vazhavachanur (606753), Tamil Nadu, India

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825 1733984795 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Industrial Waste Water Utilization in Agriculture Agriculture 201-202

In many regions of the world, particularly in water-scarce urban and peri-urban areas and where competition for water is high, wastewater is being used for agricultural purposes.Shortage of irrigation water resources is leading to the use of domestic and industrial waste water in agriculture in urban areas. The uses of waste water in agriculture benefits human health, the environment and the economy. The use represents an alternative practice that is being adopted in different regions confronted with water shortage and growing urban population with increasing water needs especially given the decline in surface and groundwater resources caused by climate change with climate variability.

Waste water, Spentwash, Biocompost, Sodic soils NIL 2020-05-05 Popular Article R. Murugaragavan, S.S. Rakesh, M. Yuvaraj, S. R. Shri Rangasami

R. Murugaragavan*

Department of Soil and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai (625104), India

S.S. Rakesh

Department of Environmental Science, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Coimbatore (641003), India

M. Yuvaraj

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanure, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606753), India

S. R. Shri Rangasami

Rice Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Ambasamudram (627401), India

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826 1733985659 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Engineered Seed Technology Agriculture 206-207

Artificial seeds are characterized as misleadingly exemplified physical undeveloped organisms, shoot buds, cell totals, or whatever other tissue that can be utilized for planting as a seed and that have the capacity to change over into a plant under in vitro or ex vitro conditions and that holds this potential additionally after capacity. Prior, engineered seeds were alluded distinctly to the substantial incipient organisms that were of financial use in crop creation and plant conveyance to the field or nurseries. Usage of manufactured seed innovation requires control of in vitro culture frameworks for enormous scope creation of practical materials that can change over into plants, for embodiment, substantial embryogenesis, organogenesis and upgraded helper bud expansion frameworks are the productive systems for quick and huge scope in vitro increase of first class and attractive plant species.

Embryogenesis, Artificial seed, In- vitro. NIL 2021-05-06 Popular Article Monika Karnawat, Sushil Kumar Trivedi, Rohitashav Nagar, Deepak Nagar

Monika Karnawat*

Department of Biotechnology, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324005), India

Sushil Kumar Trivedi

Department of Biotechnology, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324005), India

Rohitashav Nagar

Department of Biotechnology, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324005), India

Deepak Nagar

Department of Biotechnology, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324005), India

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827 1733986323 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Success Story on Frieswal – A National Milch Crossbred Cattle Agriculture 208-209

Frieswal cattle is one of the crossbred strains having 5/8 Holstein Friesian and 3/8 Sahiwal inheritance, developed by ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, in collaboration with Military Farm, Ministry of Defence which yielding 4,000 kg of milk with 4% butter fat in a mature lactation of 300 days.

Frieswal, Crossbred, Cattle NIL 2020-05-06 Success story Sushil Kumar, Rani Alex, G K Gaur, S S Mukherjee, D K Mandal, Umesh Singh, S Tyagi, Arun Kumar, A K Das, Rajib Deb, T V Raja, Mahesh Kumar, A S Sirohi, Naimi Chand, Rajendra Prasad, V Bhasin and S Kashyap

Sushil Kumar

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

Rani Alex

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

G K Gaur

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

S S Mukherjee

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

D K Mandal

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

Umesh Singh

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

S Tyagi

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

Arun Kumar

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

A K Das

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

Rajib Deb*

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

T V Raja

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

Mahesh Kumar

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

A S Sirohi

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

Naimi Chand

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

Rajendra Prasad

ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt.,Uttar Pradesh 250 001 India

V Bhasin

Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi

S Kashyap

Deputy Director General, Frieswal Project, IHQ, Ministry of Defence, New Delhi.

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828 1733987816 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Organic Nutrient Solutions for Commercial Cultivation of Orchids Agriculture 214-217

Organic farming indicates a traditional food production systems such as crop rotations, mixed cropping, mixed farming, organic manuring, residue recycling, agro-forestry systems which  are amalgamated with modern practices of crop cultivation and livestock management to enhance profitability  without dependence on off-farm resources. In orchid cultivation, organics are used as substrate media, as a component in plug plant production, in preparation of nursery for hardening of tissue culture plants, to improve the soil physical properties, as a soil drench of bulb soaking or foliar spray, in propagation of ornamental crops, and as  a plant protection.

organic, nutrients, orchids, liquid manure NIL 2020-05-07 Popular Article L.C. De

L.C. De

ICAR-NRC for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim, 737106, India

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829 1733988085 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Management of Leafhoppers in Cotton Agriculture 218-220

Cotton is the most important cash crop producing natural fibre which has been under commercial cultivation for domestic consumption and export needs of about 111 countries in the world and hence called ‘King of Fibres’ or ‘White Gold’. India is the largest producer of cotton in the World. India is also leading consumer of cotton. Cotton is damaged by an array of insect pests, viz., bollworms, defoliators, sucking pests and non-insect pests from sowing to harvest. Among the sucking pests, leafhopper, Amrasca devastans Dist. is of major importance in cotton crop. The simplest and most potent way to overcome the problem is to treat the seeds or thiamethoxam reduces the leafhopper population.

Cotton, leafhopper, management NIL 2020-05-07 Popular Article K. Elanchezhyan, N. Balakrishnan and T. Sathyan

K. Elanchezhyan*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Killikulam, Vallanadu, Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu (628 252), India

N. Balakrishnan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Killikulam, Vallanadu, Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu (628 252), India

T. Sathyan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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830 1734066409 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Diseases of Rose and its Management Agriculture 221-222

Roses are one of the most popular flowering plants in the world and tend to have a few common disease problems. The pathogens viz., fungi, bacteria, viruses and nematodes that affect rose plant and it leads to severe economic losses globally. Chemical management of important problems is useful for favored, susceptible rose cultivars.

Disease, Symptom, Management NIL 2020-05-08 Popular Article B. Rex and V. Deepika

B. Rex*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

V. Deepika

Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641003), India

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831 1734067367 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Sugarcane Borers: A major threat to sugarcane production in India and their management Agriculture 225-228

Sugarcane can be cultivated under diverse agro climatic conditions. It is a long duration crop and requires 10 to 18 months to mature depending upon the geographical conditions. Sugarcane yield is markedly influenced by many factors, among them insect pests are known to inflict considerable loss to be approx. 20 per cent in cane yield and 15 per cent in sugar. At the above fact,  the management of sugarcane  has become a challenging task because of reasons like faster multiplication of pest, quick spread on large area within a short span of time, difficulty in application of insecticides especially spray and dust formulations during later stage of crop growth. Considering all these constraints it is very necessary to undertake timely management practices with an integrated approach by utilizing an economically viable, eco-friendly and amenable management strategies to combat the pest population of sugarcane.

Borers, sugarcane, pest management NIL 2020-05-08 Popular Article Ingle Dipak Shyamrao and Anil Kumar

Ingle Dipak Shyamrao*

Department of Entomology, Agriculture College, Garhwa, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi (822 114) Jharkhand, India

Anil Kumar

Sugarcane Research Institute, Department of Entomology Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur (848 125), Bihar, India

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832 1734067667 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Ecologically Based Integrated Pest Management: A way forward towards sustainable agriculture Agriculture 229-231

Post chemical control era, there is a need arose regarding the sustainability of agriculture, thus the lesser reliance on pesticides has led more emphasis on the environmental feasibility. In this context, EBIPM (Ecologically Based Integrated Pest Management) sounds quiet feasible to get the above said goals by intregating all the pest management tactics. Furthermore, the protection of land, water and other ecological components in an IPM system became important in this context. In fact, environmental risks associated with pest management include detrimental effects to beneficial and non-target organisms, aquatic toxicity, avian toxicity, and have direct links with the ecological concerns through resource allocations. Through, EBIPM practices, the detrimental effects can be minimised to achieve sustainable agriculture.

Chemical control, IPM, sustainable agriculture, ecological components NIL 2020-05-09 Popular Article IpsitaSamal, Jayashree Bhattacharjee

IpsitaSamal*

Division of Entomology, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi -110012, INDIA

Jayashree Bhattacharjee

Department of Agriculture, Govt. of Tripura, Tripura, INDIA

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833 1734068044 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Diseases of Groundnut and Their Control Measures Agriculture 232-237

Being an important oilseed crop, groundnut offers numerousbenefits in terms of monetary and health but the managementof destructive diseases is one of the most important challengesfaced by groundnut growers in India now a days under changingclimatic conditions. More than 55 pathogens including viruses havebeen reported to affect groundnut yields and quality of the produce.So, the sound knowledge of the major diseases of groundnut, itsoccurrence, distribution, diagnostic symptoms, extend of lossesand their epidemiology is needy to formulate the eco friendlydisease management approaches like host plant resistance, culturalmethods, use of botanicals, biological control, chemical methods andbiotechnological approaches.

Aflatoxin contamination, Groundnut, Integrated disease management, Chemical NIL 2020-05-09 Popular Article Ekta Joshi, Deep Singh Sasode, Neelam Singh and Namrata Chouhan

Ekta Joshi*

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior M.P. (474 002), India

Deep Singh Sasode

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior M.P. (474 002), India

Neelam Singh

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior M.P. (474 002), India

Namrata Chouhan

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior M.P. (474 002), India

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834 1734068780 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Value Addition in Mango – A Livelihood Option in Andaman and Nicobar Islands Agriculture 238-240

Mango is an important fruit crop of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and available during most of the months of the year due to the existing off season and multiple flowering genotypes. Only limited quantities of fruits are used for domestic consumption. Due to the limitations of inter Island transport, absence of cold chain and distance from the markets, majority of the fruits are unutilized. The nutrition rich mango fruits are to be consumed by the inhabitants of the Island for nutritional security. This may be achieved by consumption of value added products of mango that are locally available throughout the year. The mango fruits in the Island are free of chemicals and organically grown. The fruit processing of mango is an excellent option for the self help groups, tribal women and youth to initiated small scale cottage industries. The sale of certified value added products in the brand name of Island will fetch additional income along with creation of employment opportunities.

Mango, value addition, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, off season NIL 2020-05-09 Popular Article K. Abirami, V. Baskaran, Pooja Kapoor and B. Augustine Jerard

K. Abirami*

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair-744101 Andaman and Nicobar Islands

V. Baskaran

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair-744101 Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Pooja Kapoor

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair-744101 Andaman and Nicobar Islands

B. Augustine Jerard

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair-744101 Andaman and Nicobar Islands

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835 1734069311 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Boron Nutrition in Fruit Crops Agriculture 241-244

  Boron nutrition is critical not only for high yields but also for high quality of crops. Boron deficiency causes many anatomical, physiological, and biochemical changes, most of which represent secondary effects. Boron is an essential micronutrient element required for growth and development of plants. This group, once hardly considered at all in plant nutrition practices, is now receiving major attention from soil scientists and plant physiologists. Boron is an essential element and plays an important role in the ribonucleic acid metabolism, synthesis and stability of nuclear membranes and in the transport of assimilates, mainly sugars . Plant needs for boron can be applied as Granubor/borax pre-plant to the soil or as Solubor or foliar sprays during the growing season for increasing growth, yield and quality of fruits.

Micronutrient, boron deficiency, sugars, pollen germination NIL 2020-05-10 Popular Article D. Janaki, R.Chitra, S. Prabhu and R.Poorniammal

D. Janaki*

Horticultural College & Research Institute, Periyakulam (625604), Tamilnadu, India

R.Chitra

Horticultural College & Research Institute, Periyakulam (625604), Tamilnadu, India

S. Prabhu

Horticultural College & Research Institute, Periyakulam (625604), Tamilnadu, India

R.Poorniammal

Horticultural College & Research Institute, Periyakulam (625604), Tamilnadu, India

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836 1734070140 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Fall Armyworm, an Invasive Pest Threatens Maize Farming Agriculture 249-251

Maize is an important cereal crop and the grains are used for human consumption and as poultry feed. At present, maize cultivation is threatened by an invasive pest, fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J E. Smith), in India. It infests the maize crop throughout its duration and causes huge economic loss. Farmers face the problem in managing the pest as it is an invasive one. Tamil Nadu Agricultural University advocates an IPM technology capsule to contain the pest population in maize. This capsule has been designed to target all the stages of life cycle of the pest.

Fall armyworm, maize, IPM NIL 2020-05-10 Popular Article N. Balakrishnan and K. Elanchezhyan

N. Balakrishnan*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Agricultural College and Research Institute

K. Elanchezhyan

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Killikulam, Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu (628252), India

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837 1734070682 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue TILLING: A novel reverse genetics technique for screening of gene mutants in plants Agriculture 252-254

TILLING is a newly developed general reverse genetics strategy which helps to locate an allelic series of induced point mutations in genes of interest and allows the rapid and inexpensive detection of induced point mutations in populations of physically or chemically mutagenized individuals. This approach works with a mismatch-specific endonuclease to detect induced or natural DNA polymorphisms in desired genes.

TILLING, reverse genetics, endonuclease, mutation NIL 2020-05-11 Popular Article Bichhinna Maitri Rout

Bichhinna Maitri Rout

Division of Vegetable Science, Ph.D. Scholar, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi-110012, India

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838 1734071747 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Advances in freezing stress resistance in vegetable crops Agriculture 261-263

Freezing injury occurs in most of the vegetables when exposed to temperature slightly below zero. Frost damage occurs when ice forms inside the plant tissue and injures the plant cells. The productivity can be enhanced in higher altitudes during severe winters or extreme weather conditions by developing different cold tolerant varieties through various innovative approaches.

freezing, ice, frost, vegetable NIL 2020-05-12 Popular Article Bichhinna Maitri Rout

Bichhinna Maitri Rout*

Division of Vegetable Science, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi-110012, India

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839 1734072039 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Entomopathogenic Fungi as Biocontrol Agents in Agriculture Agriculture 264-266

Insect pests cause about 42% crop losses worldwide and mainstay use of synthetic chemical pesticides over last 50 years causes severe damage to human and environmental health. Thus demand for IPM strategies influencing the use of biocontrol agents. Use of microorganisms as biological control agents is the most attractive and nonhazardous alternative method for insect pest management. These agents cause devastation to pest population without any health hazards to human population. Also the complex mode of action of these pathogens reduces the chances of resistance development. However, entomopathogenic fungi constitute a group of great interest for the biological control of insect- pest.

Entomopathogenic Fungi; Biocontrol agents; Insect-pest. NIL 2020-05-13 Popular Article Siddharth Singh, Aditya Pratap Singh, Dilip Kumar Chaurasiya, Soumik Mukherjee and Goutam Mondal

Siddharth Singh*

Department of Plant Pathology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741252, West Bengal, India

Aditya Pratap Singh

Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741252, West Bengal, India

Dilip Kumar Chaurasiya

Department of Plant Pathology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur-848125, Bihar, India

Soumik Mukherjee

Department of Plant Pathology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741252, West Bengal, India

Goutam Mondal

Department of Plant Pathology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741252, West Bengal, India

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840 1734072562 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Geographical Indications for Agricultural Products: Status and Prospects Agriculture 267-270

Geographical Indications (GI) of goods are denotation of industrial properties which have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that geographical origin. Geographical indications are typically used for industrial products, handicrafts, and most importantly; agricultural products. GI tag for rice, Darjeeling tea etc. has not only brought recognition to the products but also has created opportunities of earning via export to the farming communities. The resources if diverted towards active promotion of the products would open wide spectra of development.

Geographical Indication; WIPO; Trademark; Darjeeling tea NIL 2020-05-13 Popular Article Aditya Pratap Singh, Siddharth Singh, Pekila Bhutia and Sujaya Dewanjee

Aditya Pratap Singh*

Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohapur-741252, West Bengal, India

Siddharth Singh

Department of Plant Pathology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohapur-741252, West Bengal, India

Pekila Bhutia

Department of Vegetable Science, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot-587104, Karnataka, India

Sujaya Dewanjee

Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohapur-741252, West Bengal, India

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841 1734072870 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Genetic engineering: An insight of vegetable biotechnology Agriculture 271-274

As the world population is expected to reach 9 billion by 2050, traditional agricultural technologies will be inadequate to feed the growing human population. Traditional methods of plant breeding for crop improvement has many limitations and is time consuming (10-15 years). However, the use of genetic engineering is less time consuming (2-3 years) and more selective in obtaining improved traits, but proper scientific testing is required.

traditional, crop, genetic engineering, breeding NIL 2020-05-14 Popular Article Bichhinna Maitri Rout

Bichhinna Maitri Rout*

Division of Vegetable Science, Ph.D. Scholar, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi-110012, India

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842 1734073112 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Can India become self-sufficient in pulses? Agriculture 275-277

Pulses are important components of sustainable crop-production system in the world, because of their capability to fix biological nitrogen, low water requirement as well as capacity to withstand abnormal weather conditions. In combination with cereals, pulses provide a perfect mix of vegetarian protein of high biological value. It is a staple food to poor as well as vegetarian population of India; still pluses in India were not a first choice for the farmers for cultivation. From the few years demand of pulses was increasing which cause the gap between production and consumption, this rise in gap is increasing every year due to increasing population as well as consumption. Indian population approximately required 32.0 million tones which will increase to 1.69 billion tones by 2050. To achieve the demand, an annual growth rate of 2.2% was required but the demand of pluses also continues to grow at 2.8% per annum. The objective of this article is to focus on the present scenario in India and related constrain in pulses production.

Pulses, Population, Biological, cultivation NIL 2020-05-14 Popular Article Mamta Gupta, Priya Chugh and Bunty Sharma

Mamta Gupta

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University Ludhiana-141004, Punjab

Priya Chugh*

Dept. of Botany, Punjab Agricultural University Ludhiana-141004, Punjab

Bunty Sharma

Chitkara School of Health Sciences, Chitkara University Rajpura, 140401 Punjab

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843 1734073931 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Acetonaemia of Dairy Cows Agriculture 278-280

Acetonemia or ketosis is one of the metabolic disease of dairy cattle. Most commonly, ketosis is seen either in high producing cows or cows on a poor diet. This metabolic disease occurs due to deranged metabolism of glucose in the blood leading to low levels. The animals that are fed with good pasture and high energy diet will have a sufficient reserve of glucose in their body. The ruminants gets their glucose from the rumen fermentation of carbohydrate source it ingest rather than from feeding glucose directly. This disease in predominantly seen in high yielding cows especially during once month after calving with major symptom of sudden drop in milk yield. Being a metabolic disease it can be cured by prompt treatment and supplements.

Acetonimea, dairy cows, metabolic disease, energy supplements NIL 2020-05-15 Popular Article V. B. Raghavendran

V. B. Raghavendran

Department of Agronomy, ACRI, Madurai - 625 104, Tamil Nadu, India

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844 1734074191 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Technology to Enhance Post Harvest Shelf Life of Horticultural Crops Agriculture 281-282

Postharvest physiology is the scientific study of the physiology of living plant tissues after they have denied further nutrition by picking. It has direct applications to postharvest handling in establishing the storage and transport conditions for prolong shelf life. The postharvest handling practices are gaining importance towards delaying fruit and vegetables ripening and prolonged storage period by preventing fruit tissue respiration. This insight allowed scientists to bring to bear their knowledge of the fundamental principles and mechanisms of respiration and ripening which leading to post-harvest storage techniques such as cold storage, gaseous storage, waxy skin coatings and treatment with ethylene. This article brings knowledge about the technologies to enhance the life and quality of horticulture produce.

Shelf life, technology, horticulture crops, storage and ripening NIL 2020-05-15 Popular Article Deepika V. and B. Rex

Deepika V.*

Department of Fruit Science, HC & RI, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu – 625604, India

B. Rex

Department of Plant Pathology, AC & RI, TNAU, Madurai, Tamil Nadu – 625104, India

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845 1734074449 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Drying of Ornamental Flowers: An Income Earning Venture Agriculture 283-286

The art of drying ornamental flowers and their parts is a flourishing art from olden days. The use of dried floral parts in a variety of products has now become a major business worldwide and this art has transformed from hobby to dollar earning venture. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a storehouse of variety of ornamental plants and provides ample opportunities for dry flower making. Agriculture land holding is very less in the Isand, hence the additional activities along with farming will help in increased economic benefit to the farmers. Dry flower technique is one such avenue which may be exploited in the Island by the use of native ornamental plant wealth and provide employment opportunites for farm women, tribal wome, self help groups and unemployed youth. When the dry flower is developed as an enterprise for manufacturing of various procuts many techniques of drying are standardized that may be used for successful production. However, for intiation of small scale cottage industry simple drying techniques may be employed.

Dry flower, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, drying technique, value addition NIL 2020-05-15 Popular Article V. Baskaran, K. Abirami and B. Augustine Jerard

V. Baskaran*

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands -744101

K. Abirami

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands -744101

B. Augustine Jerard

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands -744101

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846 1734154521 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Protective Foods to Develop Immunity of Individuals against COVID 19 Agriculture 287-290

Corona virus Infectious Disease (COVID-19) is a viral disease which  causes common symptoms including  fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing and  other symptoms like tiredness, arches, chills, sore throat, loss of smell, loss of taste, headache, diarrhea and severe vomiting. In case of older persons it causes worsened symptoms, such as worsened shortness of breath, multi organ failure, respiratory failure, heart problems, acute kidney injury and pneumonia. At present, there is no vaccine available to prevent COVID-19 and preventive measures as recommended by WHO and CDC can be taken up to reduce the risk of infection. The most potent anti-viral food items such as garlic, ginger, turmeric, acid lime, aonla, spinach, broccoli etc. must be included in ones diet to boost up the immune system and protect body against infectious diseases.

COVID 19, respiratory problems, preventive measures, anti-viral foods NIL 2020-05-16 Popular Article L.C. De and Tulipa De

L.C. De*

ICAR-NRC for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim-737106, India

Tulipa De

Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar-736165, West Bengal, India

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847 1734154854 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Success Story - A Way Forward to Lac Cultivation Agriculture 291-293

Lac is the only resin of animal origin, being secretion from a gland (lac gland) of a tiny scale insect. Lac insects basically yield three useful by-products viz., resin, dye and wax. Cultivation of lac not only provides livelihood to millions of tribals but also conserves biodiversity associated with lac complex. Northeast India have high potential in terms of lac production. But due to lack of awareness among farmers, Assam contributes only 285 tons accounting 2% of total production of the country. This article describes about a progressive farmer of Dhemaji district, Assam, India who started thinking innovative and took initiative to do scientific lac cultivation in large scale for the first time in Assam. His dedication and effort towards his work and his risk bearing ability makes him a complete entrepreneur and a potential farmer.

Lac, Resin, Scientific lac cultivation, Progressive NIL 2020-05-16 Popular Article Purnima Das and Priyanka Saikia

Purnima Das*

Department of Entomology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat (785013), Assam, India

Priyanka Saikia

Department of Entomology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat (785013), Assam, India

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848 1734155066 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Gall Formers across Insect Orders Agriculture 294-295

Galls are abnormal swellings of plant host tissues produced as a result of mechanical damage or feeding by organisms like insects. The present study provides brief information on understanding the basic mechanism behind gall formation and also about various gall forming insects. Total number of gall forming species ranges from 13,000 to 211,000 belonging to 24 families across six orders.

Galls, Insects, Diptera, Homoptera. NIL 2020-05-16 Popular Article G. Sai Karthik and Vinod S Kukanur

G. Sai Karthik*

Department of Entomology, Prof. Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad (500030), Telangana, India

Vinod S Kukanur

International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics, Hyderabad (502324), Telangana, India

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849 1734155322 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Nanotechnology for Pest Management: A New Era in Plant Protection Agriculture 296-297

Pesticides are widely used in agricultural production throughout the world to protect the crops from pest risk. Advancement of technology in different fields and proper monitoring methods, pest and disease detection, smart systems of chemicals, gene delivery in the crops, and many other applications have revolutionized agriculture. Applications of nanotechnology in crop protection hold significant promises in the management of insect pests and have wider use as insecticides through control and target delivery. Nano-based materials have given the ray of hope for the development of efficient and potential approaches against insect pests.

Agriculture, Crop Protection, Pesticides, Nanomaterial NIL 2020-05-19 Popular Article Sankarganesh E., Rajeshwaran B. and Lavanya Sravani B.

Sankarganesh E.*

Department of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur-741252, West Bengal, India

Rajeshwaran B.

Department of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur-741252, West Bengal, India

Lavanya Sravani B.

Department of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur-741252, West Bengal, India

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850 1734155558 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Fatty Acid Composition of Seed Oil of Calophyllum inophyllum Agriculture 298-299

Calophyllum inophyllum L. is a multi-purpose tree found growing along the coastal regions and widely distributed along the sea coasts of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. All parts of the plant are used for curing many diseases by the Nicobarese, a tribal community of Islands.The extracted seed oil is used for traditional health cure. Calophyllum inophyllum is also utilized for biodiesel production. GC-MS analysis of seed oil showed the presence of both saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. The major saturated fatty acid is Palmitic acid (18.74%). The major unsaturated fatty acid present is the oleic acid (44.51%) followed by linoleic (21.02%) and stearic acid (15.51%). The presence of unsaturated fatty acids is in higher proportion and they have enormous health benefits. This species have wide scope for industrial exploitation and it may also serve as a major feed stock for non edible biodiesel production.

Calophyllum inophyllum L, fatty acids, Andaman and Nicobar, GC -MS NIL 2020-05-19 Popular Article L. Brojendra Singh, K. Abirami and V. S. Rana

L. Brojendra Singh

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair-744101, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

K. Abirami*

ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (CIARI), Port Blair-744101, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

V. S. Rana

Division of Agricultural Chemistry, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, 110012, India

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851 1734155918 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Foods That Cleanses The Liver Agriculture 300-302

The liver is essential to the proper functioning of the body. It acts to purify the blood of accumulated toxins, produces the digestive substances and stores the vitamins and minerals to be redistributed through the body. Yet, without knowing it, we are daily exposed to many toxins that can damage liver. Modern society is a sad state that produces many over-processed livers. When we overeat or eat processed or fried foods, or anytime we are exposed to environmental pollutants or stress, the liver becomes overworked and overloaded. When the liver is taxed, it can't process toxins and fat in an efficient way. There are many foods that can help cleanse the liver naturally by stimulating its natural ability to expel toxic waste from the body. The lists of foods that can help the liver perform its functions and also, help to regenerate its cells easily.

Foods, Detox, Liver NIL 2020-05-21 Popular Article T. Thilagavathi, M. Pandiyan, R. Sasmitha, M. Yuvaraj, M. Suganyadevi and M. Sivaji

T. Thilagavathi*

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai,  Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Pandiyan

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai,  Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

R. Sasmitha

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai,  Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Yuvaraj

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai,  Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Suganyadevi

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai,  Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Sivaji

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai,  Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

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852 1734156199 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Agromart Promotes Agribusiness in India Agriculture 303-304

Agromart is agricultural marketing domain supplying agricultural commodity to the world. The working principles of Agromart are to provide the raw materials which are linked with horticulture, agriculture, sericulture, apiculture, pisiculture, animal husbandry and poultry. It supports indigenous value added products traditional arts and crafts quality products of unorganized sector from farmhouse, farmer’s field, SHGs (self-help group), NGOs (nongovernmental organization). Agromart holds a potential for the generation of employment, generation of income, better storage, formation of livelihood, improving goods and services and national GDP. It will not only create awareness of adopting e-commerce in agriculture but will also improve rural and urban development ensuring sustainable agriculture into smart agriculture.

Agromart, Farmers, Self Help group, marketing NIL 2020-05-21 Popular Article Avinash Sharma, Sheelawati Monlai, Chowlani Manpoong, Prajjal Dey, Debanjana Saha, Himanshu Pandey, Naorem Johnson Singh and Zhang Shi

Avinash Sharma*

Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Arunachal University of Studies, Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh - 792103, India

Sheelawati Monlai

Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Arunachal University of Studies, Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh - 792103, India

Chowlani Manpoong

Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Arunachal University of Studies, Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh - 792103, India

Prajjal Dey

Faculty of Agriculture, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Orissa - 754006, India

Debanjana Saha

Department of Biotechnology, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Jatni, Bhubaneshwar, Orissa - 751009, India

Himanshu Pandey

Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan - 173230, H.P., India

Naorem Johnson Singh

School of Agricultural Sciences & Rural development, Nagaland University, Nagaland -797004, India

Zhang Shi

Sheng Yang Agriculture University and China University of Political Science and Law, Beijing – 450100, China

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853 1734156853 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Rice Genome Editing through CRISPR/Cas9: Where are we? Agriculture 308-309

By application of various conventional, mutational and molecular breeding approaches considerable improvement and high productivity of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) have been gained. However, these methods are not enough to enhance the yield as well as combating the resurgence of various biotic and extending abiotic stress conditions. So, now-a-days to boost up these factors, advanced genome editing tool like CRISPR/cas9 is on high demand. This system uses a complex of RNA-Protein (sgRNA-Cas9) to proceed with a double-strand break in the target DNA, a repair mechanism (NHEJ or HDR) and direct knocking out of the target gene. Even it can replace a desirable host gene in that position to enhance the desirable trait.

CRISPR/cas9, sgRNA-Cas9, NHEJ, HDR NIL 2020-05-23 Popular Article Kajal Samantara, Sourav Ranjan Mohapatra, Udit Nandan Mishra*, Chandrasekhar Sahu

Kajal Samantara

Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha (761211), India

Sourav Ranjan Mohapatra

Division of Genetics and Tree Improvement, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun, Uttarakhand (248006), India

Udit Nandan Mishra*

Department of Bochemistry and Crop Physiology, M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha (761211), India

Chandrasekhar Sahu

Department of Bochemistry and Crop Physiology, M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha (761211), India

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854 1734157145 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Gynandromorphism in Insects Agriculture 310-311

A wide range of genetic systems are present in insects like haplo-diploidy, homogametic male and female, hermaphrodites etc. Gynandromorphism i.e., the presence of both sexes in the same body also occurs in insects with increasing complexity. Here, we gave an overview of various genetic systems present in insects and described gynandromorphism in detail.

Sex determination, Genetic systems, Hermaphrodites, Gynandromorphism, NIL 2020-05-23 Popular Article G. Sai Karthik and Vinod S Kukanur

G. Sai Karthik*

Department of Entomology, Prof. Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad (500030), Telangana, India

Vinod S Kukanur

International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics, Hyderabad (502324), Telangana, India

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855 1734157373 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Genetically Modified Food: Promises and Problems Agriculture 312-315

Increasing concerns from the public about GMO, particularly in the form of genetic modified (GM) foods, are aimed at the short- and long-lasting health problems that may result from this advanced biotechnology. Complex studies are being carried out around the world independently to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of GM foods. The genetic modification in crops express many traits,n such as, increasing yield, higher vitamin and micronutrient content, resistance to insect, diseases and pests, longer shelf-life for and so on. The principal GM crops grown commercially in field are herbicide and insecticide resistant soybeans, maize, cotton.

Genetic Modified crop, Food, Risk NIL 2020-05-23 Popular Article M. Sivaji, M. Pandiyan, M. Yuvaraj, T. Tilagavathi, M. Suganyadevi, and R. Sasmitha

M. Sivaji*

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Pandiyan

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Yuvaraj

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

T. Tilagavathi

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Suganyadevi

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

R. Sasmitha

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

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856 1734157919 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Insect Gears Agriculture 316-317

Insects have developed many structural modifications to ensure their survival during the course of evolution. A recently discovered adaptation was the presence of gears in insect legs of Issus coleoptratus which they use for jumping and faster movements. In this paper, we have briefly described the modifications of hind legs in Issus and mechanism behind the working of insect gears.

Legs, Gear, Issus, Trochanter NIL 2020-05-24 Popular Article G. Sai Karthik and Vinod S Kukanur

G. Sai Karthik*

Department of Entomology, Prof. Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad (500030), Telangana, India

Vinod S Kukanur

International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics, Hyderabad (502324), Telangana, India

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857 1734158165 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Conservation Agriculture in India Agriculture 318-320

At present, increasing population, changing climate and decreasing the productivity becomes a major issue. So, farmers have to adapt to new method of crop production to achieve sustainable production. Therefore, conservation agriculture (CA) is the best method to avoid the ill impact of conventional method. It is based on the three principles viz. (1) Minimum tillage and soil disturbance, (2) Soil cover with crop residues, (3) Crop rotation and intercropping. The technology of CA reduces the cost of cultivation by the most efficient use of natural resources. However, there are some constraints to adoption of CA technology. So, there is need to develop some policy to adopt the CA at large scale and to gets benefits.

Conservation agriculture, Crop rotation, Intercropping, Minimum tillage NIL 2020-05-24 Popular Article Shalu, Sunil and Deepak Loura

Shalu

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar – 125 004, Haryana, India

Sunil*

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar – 125 004, Haryana, India

Deepak Loura

Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar – 125 004, Haryana, India

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858 1734158414 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Insects in Hindu Mythology Agriculture 321-322

India being the center for world’s major religions like Hinduism has a great mythological significance. The involvement of insects in Hindu mythology is not well explored. Here, we made an attempt to quote the involvement of insects in various classical writings of Hindu mythology and have described their importance in Hindu mythology.

Insects, Mythology, Gods, Human NIL 2020-05-24 Popular Article G. Sai Karthik and Vinod S Kukanur

G. Sai Karthik*

Department of Entomology, Prof. Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad (500030), Telangana, India

Vinod S Kukanur

International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics, Hyderabad (502324), Telangana, India

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859 1734158681 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Urban Farming - A Sustainable Smart Farming Approach Agriculture 323-324

As rural-urban migration is increasing, the urbanisation poses a number challenges viz., food insecurity, environmental pollution, unequal distribution of resources, etc.  Among the many challenges, food provision is gaining importance but omitted or neglected for long period. The pressure on agricultural land to meet the present food demand is increasing. With the increasing urban population, there is an urgent need for feeding those people in a sustainable manner. Urban farming, the cultivation of crops in and around urban areas, is the complementary to rural agriculture. This practice provides much benefits like food provision, nutrition security, productive usage of waste water, reducing pollution and increased green cover, etc. This can be used as an effective tool for achieving the urban food security and leads to a positive future for urban agriculture.

Food-security, Food system, Smart farming, Urban farming NIL 2020-05-24 Popular Article Sasmitha R., M. Pandiyan, M. Sivaji, M. Suganyadevi, T. Tilagavathi, M. Yuvaraj

Sasmitha R.*

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanure, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Pandiyan

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanure, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Sivaji

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanure, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Suganyadevi

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanure, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

T. Tilagavathi

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanure, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

M. Yuvaraj

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanure, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

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860 1734159917 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Tea Mosquito Bug (Helopeltis antonii Signoret) and its Management in Guava Agriculture 333-334

Guava is a common tropical fruit cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions. Its production was severely affected by many insect pests. The tea mosquito bug, Helopeltis antonii is one such pest causes economic damage to guava in the recent years causing significant reduction in yield and marketable fruits. This pest can be well efficiently managed by following integrated management practices viz. cultural, biological and chemical methods.

Guava, Tea mosquito bug, IPM NIL 2020-05-25 Popular Article A. Subash Chandra Bose, I. Rabeena and T. Sathyan

A. Subash Chandra Bose*

S. Thangapazham Agriculture College, Vasudevanallur (627760), Tirunelveli, India

I. Rabeena

Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Madurai (641003), India

T. Sathyan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, TNAU, Madurai (641003), India

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861 1734257773 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Role of Biofertilizers in Sustainable Agriculture- Prospects and Constraints Agriculture 345-347

Biofertilizers are becoming increasingly popular due to the increasing emphasis on maintenance of soil health, to minimize environmental pollution, cut down the use of chemicals in agriculture and increasing concerns on public health. Biofertilizers offer wide range of opportunities for development of better agro-practices due to advantages and benefits provided for the soil, crops and farmers. However, some limitations of these practices are clearly recognized which demand feasibility studies to be carried out carefully to find better solutions for each particular case in agricultural activities.

Biofertilizer, Sustainable agriculture, Eco-Friendly, Low-Cost NIL 2020-05-26 Popular Article Bandana Mayanglambam, Bijeeta Thangjam, Naorem Meena Devi

Bandana Mayanglambam*

Department of Plant Pathology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia – 741252, West Bengal, India

Bijeeta Thangjam

Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, CAU, Imphal-795004, Manipur, India

Naorem Meena Devi

Department of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia – 741252, West Bengal, India

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862 1734258696 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Soil Biodiversity: Status, Indicators and Threats Agriculture 353-355

Soil biodiversity is the principal component of agro ecosystem. Soil biota is crucial for many processes taking place in soil system. Soil organisms also act as indicator for the assessment of soil quality and sustainable use of soil. Soil biodiversity is vulnerable to so many threats such as climate change, soil pollution, invasive species and most important intensive agriculture. So, sustainable utilization of soil resources is the key in boost-up the efficiency of agricultural system and makes it more resilient and adaptive without any harmful impact on soil living organisms. Therefore, a better understanding of the important functions of soil species in the management of soil-based ecosystem resources is the key to guiding pathways for biodiversity-friendly agricultural intensification.

Soil biodiversity, Threats, Agriculture, Ecosystem NIL 2020-05-28 Popular Article Gopal Tiwari, Abhishek Jangir, Lal Chand Malav, Sandeep Kumar

Gopal Tiwari

ICAR-NBSS & LUP, Nagpur 440033, India

Abhishek Jangir

ICAR-NBSS & LUP, Nagpur 440033, India

Lal Chand Malav

ICAR-NBSS & LUP, Nagpur 440033, India

Sandeep Kumar*

CESCRA, IARI, New Delhi 110012, India

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863 1734258955 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Nanoplastics in 21st Century Agriculture 356-358

Nanoplastics (NPs) are chemically inert and present significant ecological and health concerns due to their potential ecotoxicity for environmental persistence and their ability to function as vectors for chemical pollutants as well as pathogens. The high surface area increases their potentially enhanced reactivity and it has been shown that the surface area impacts the biotoxicity of polystyrene nanoparticles. Long-term accumulation of NPs in liver tissue and chronic inflammation could contribute to liver disease and metabolic problems while accumulation of NPs in lung tissue could potentially lead to chronic pulmonary disorders and presence of NPs in brain tissues is detected.  The major threat of nanoplastics is that it acts as a vector in transfer of pesticides and pathogens which can also be designed for the bio-weapon sort for harming the living organisms in the globe.

Nanoplastics, Microplastics, Ecotoxicity, Microcracking NIL 2020-05-29 Popular Article S. S. Rakesh, Murugaragavan Ramasamy, P. T. Ramesh, M. Maheswari, S. R. Shri Rangasami, M. Yuvaraj

S. S. Rakesh*

Department of Environmental Sciences, AC&RI, TNAU, Coimbatore (641 003), Tamil Nadu, India

Murugaragavan Ramasamy

Department of Soils and Environment, AC&RI, Madurai (625 104), Tamil Nadu, India

P. T. Ramesh

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam (628 252), Tamil Nadu, India

M. Maheswari

Department of Environmental Sciences, AC&RI, TNAU, Coimbatore (641 003), Tamil Nadu, India

S. R. Shri Rangasami

Rice Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Ambasamudram (627 401), Tamil Nadu, India

M. Yuvaraj

Agricultural College and Research Institute, Thiruvannamalai (606 753), Tamil Nadu, India

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864 1734259813 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Precision Farming: The Bright Future for Indian Agriculture Agriculture 362-364

The estimate shows that by 2030 we need 345 MT food grain, 50 MT oilseeds and horticultural crop production 350 MT besides fish 15 MT, meat 200 MT and egg 100 billion and the rise must combat weather variability and climate variability. Using modern information technology is one of the best ways to meet these entire requirements in this era. 4R (Right time, Right place, right quantity and Right method) are the basics of precision agriculture or site specific crop management. Precision agriculture approach is required to ensure that the requisite resources for crop growth are available and crop protection needs are met without deficiency or excess at each point in time during the growing season. In addition to mechanisation various tools and techniques are used in precision farming i.e. Geographic Information System (GIS), Global positioning System (GPS), Remote sensing, Variable Rate Technology (VRT) etc.

Precision, Geographic, Climate, Remote sensing. NIL 2020-05-29 Popular Article Hemadri Bag and Dilip Kumar Chaurasiya

Hemadri Bag*

Department of Agrometeorology, School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765022), India

Dilip Kumar Chaurasiya

Department of Plant Pathology,Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural university, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848125), India

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865 1734260769 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Status of Genetic Exploration in Molluscs Agriculture 370-372

Molluscs have a global market based on their wide consumption as one of the delicious as well as proteinaceous food. Though scientists have created much superior strain of mussels and oysters through selective breeding, it has to be noted that there are no Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) till now in molluscs due to insufficient genetic information. Only six species of molluscs have been sequenced for their whole genome. Taking all of this into account, this article tries to provide status of genetic exploration in molluscs.

Molluscs, Genome, Conservation, Selective breeding NIL 2020-05-30 Popular Article Jothiswaran V. V., Lloyd Chrispin C. and Anix Vivek Santhiya A.

Jothiswaran V. V.

Institute of Fisheries Biotechnology, Vaniyanchavadi – 603 103, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu, India

Lloyd Chrispin C.*

Department of Fisheries Extension, Economics and Statistics, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri – 601 204, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu, India

Anix Vivek Santhiya A.

Department of Aquaculture, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi – 628 008, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu, India

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866 1734261052 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Mycorrhizal Association: A Mutualistic Relationship for Growth Enhancement and Disease Suppression in Crop Plants Agriculture 373-375

The symbiotic plant–microbe interaction is a remarkable phenomenon observed in the rhizosphere that determines the sustainability of the ecosystem by improving plant health and soil properties. In this beneficial relationship, the host plant provides necessary and other basic life supporting materials to the fungi, whereas fungi in-return helps to available essential minerals and life supporting nutrients especially P2O5 to the host plant. Instead of providing major nutrients, Mycorrhiza also acts as bio protectants against pathogens and toxic stresses during biological interaction. But nowadays, due to the changing environment and indiscriminate use of pesticides, pose a great menace to the existence of mycorrhizal species. Therefore, it is required to spread awareness in relation to save mycorrhizal fungi from extinction.

Mycorrhiza, Mutualistic relation, Growth improvement, Pest suppression NIL 2020-05-30 Popular Article Devesh Pathak, Vaibhav Pratap Singh and Jyoti Sharma

Devesh Pathak*

Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh (202 002), Uttar Pradesh, India

Vaibhav Pratap Singh

Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh (202 002), Uttar Pradesh, India

Jyoti Sharma

Department of life science, University of Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi (110 021), India

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867 1734261446 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Agroforestry: One Step towards Mitigate the Climate Change Agriculture 376-378

Agroforestry is a sustainable land use system where woody perennials, agricultural crops and fodders are grown on the same unit of land. Farmers grow trees of Acacia nilotica, Acacia catechu, Dalbergia sissoo, Mangifera indica, Zizyphus mauritiana and Gmelina arborea etc. in farm land. It plays a drastic role in climate change mitigation due to its tree components. Trees intake CO2 (most predominant GHG) in their biomass. Besides climate change mitigation agroforestry helps in adaptation of climate change. People should be aware about the benefits and scope of agroforestry and they should develop this practice in India. Agroforestry system is ecologically sound and economically viable with enhancement of farm productivity, improve soil health through little fall, maintaining environment by climate change mitigation (carbon sequestration), phytoremediation, watershed protection and biodiversity conservation.

Agroforestry, Carbon sequestration, GHG emission, Climate change NIL 2020-05-31 Popular Article Megha Sana and Sudip Mandal

Megha Sana*

Department of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741252), India

Sudip Mandal

Department of Seed Science & Technology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741252), India

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868 1734261675 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Zero Tillage Technology Agriculture 379-381

In India, there is increasing recognition among policy-makers of the largely untapped potential of the Eastern Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP) for meeting state- and national-level food needs. Zero-tillage (ZT) is a proven technology for enhancing wheat productivity and, hence, food security in the IGP, while reducing production costs a ‘win-win’ scenario that should support rapid technology scaling even though adoption remains modest to date. Only 44% of sample households knew about ZT technology and there was substantial scale bias in favor of larger scale farmers both with respect to awareness and adoption. Both the adoption behaviour and characteristics of the respondents’ network members influenced their own awareness and adoption of ZT, particularly among farmers in the smallest landholding tercile. Farmers valued the time-saving potential of ZT, especially under conditions of increasingly unreliable monsoon rains resulting in a delayed rice crop and, consequently, late establishment of wheat which reduces yield.

Zero tillage, Minimum tillage, Conservation tillage, IGP. NIL 2020-05-31 Popular Article Rohitashv Nagar, S. K. Trivedi, Deepak Nagar, Monika Karnawat

Rohitashv Nagar*

Department of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324005), India

S. K. Trivedi

Department of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324005), India

Deepak Nagar

Department of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324005), India

Monika Karnawat

Department of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Kota, Rajasthan (324005), India

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869 1734262037 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Soil Quality and Soil Management – An Emergent Essence Agriculture 382-385

During the tremendous population pressure, growing demand of quality and quantity food, soil quality along with judicious management of the soil is very much necessary for the betterment of plants or animals which in turn boost the human health, livelihood and also the sustainability of eco system. Soil quality is the ability of soil to perform at its most ideal condition which influences efficient land use, crop production, profitability, as well as diversity. The important soil parameters which determine its quality and health are nutrient status, SOM, soil texture and structure, bulk and particle density, porosity, WHC, CEC, soil reaction and temperature, abundance and activities soil micro-organism. Thus, soil management is mandatory for better crop production and it can be possible through addition of OM, reduction of mono cropping, INM, balanced fertilization, managing problem soils with high efficiency etc. Therefore, the following article is focused on the spectacle of soil quality and soil management practices.

Soil quality, Sustainability, Problem soil, Management practices NIL 2020-05-31 Popular Article Saumi Goswami and Ramyajit Mondal

Saumi Goswami

Department of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia (741 252), West Bengal, India

Ramyajit Mondal*

Department of Agronomy, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia (741 252), West Bengal, India

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870 1734325686 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Desert Locusts (Schistocerca gregaria) – A Global Threatening Transboundary Pest for Food Security Agriculture 389-391

In recent days, a virus COVID-19 is act as a global threat to human beings and causing great impact in changes of livelihood around the world. Under this condition, Indian farmers met with invasion of desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria) in Rajasthan, Punjab and Gujrat it produces breakup the chain in food security. Naturally, this pest is a polyphagous transboundary swarming nature and produced severe loss in agricultural crops. It feeds equivalent of their body weight 2g / locust per day and move 150 km / day. This upsurge occurred due to climatic changes and it’s favourable to this pest bred and swarming. Our government take over these situations, implementation of relief plan (PMFBY) monitored and controlled by Locusts warning organizations (LWO) through application of chemical pesticides (Malathion 5%) for balance to reclamation the farmer’s livelihood.

Locust, Malathion, Transboundary pest, Acrididae NIL 2020-05-31 Popular Article Murali Sankar, P. and Shreedevasena, S.

Murali Sankar, P.*

Department of Plant Pathology, CPPS, TNAU, Coimbatore (641003), Tamil Nadu, India

Shreedevasena, S.

Department of Plant Pathology, CPGSAS, Umiam, Barapani (793103), Meghalaya, India

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871 1734325940 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Poisonous Ornamental Plants Agriculture 392-399

Ornamental plants are plays a pivotal role in absorb the pollution and reduce the metal stress for human being. A poisonous plant is defined as a plant that when touched or ingested in sufficient quantity can be harmful or fatal to an organism or any plant capable evoking a toxic and/or fatal reaction. Many plants commonly used as indoor plants and pot plant are possess toxic parts, or are toxic at certain stages of their lives. Some only pose a serious threat to certain types of people (such as infants, the elderly, or individuals with pathological vulnerabilities) or to certain animals (such as cats, dogs, or livestock). The list of ornamental plants, ornamental value, poisonous part of plant, and the reported causes of toxicity are briefly explained in this paper.

Poisonous plants, Toxicity, Indoor plants, Pot plants NIL 2020-05-31 Popular Article K. Kayalvizhi, A. Ramesh Kumar, A. Sankari and M. Anand

K. Kayalvizhi*

Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agriculture, TNAU, Kumulur (621 712), Tamil Nadu, India

A. Ramesh Kumar

Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agriculture, TNAU, Kumulur (621 712), Tamil Nadu, India

A. Sankari

Department of Vegetable Science, TNAU, Coimbatore (641 003), Tamil Nadu, India

M. Anand

Department of Horticulture, Horticultural Research Station, Yercaud (636 601), Tamil Nadu, India

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872 1734326285 Biotica Research Today May (2020): Special Issue Genome Sequencing in Plants and Its Application in Crop Improvement Agriculture 400-401

Modern sequencing technologies allow the sequencing of thousands of millions of nucleotide bases in each run. The data explosion is likely to continue with the further development of second generation and third generation sequencing methods over the coming years. Availability of high density molecular markers enable to quickly map agronomically desirable traits and to identify candidate genes within a region of interest thus creating new opportunities for crop improvement in yield, quality, tolerance to unfavourable environmental conditions and resistance to diseases.

Molecular markers, Second generation technology, Third generation technology, Crop improvement. NIL 2020-05-31 Popular Article Oinam Priyadarshini Devi

Oinam Priyadarshini Devi

Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Central Agricultural University (CAU), Iroisemba, Imphal (795004), Manipur, India

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873 1734326525 Biotica Research Today Plasma Therapy: Cure for COVID-19 Agriculture 402-404

COVID-19 has been proved to be biggest disaster of 21st century and it is quite different from any other calamity on human beings. Lockdown strategy has been implemented by almost all countries to stop transmission of this deadly novel coronavirus. Till the date, no vaccine is available to achieve permanent cure of COVID-19. Although, many research groups are engaged in continuous search of the promising treatment but still it needs long stand. Among the techniques of medical sciences, plasma therapy has come up with optimistic solution and showed tremendous recovery of corona affected patients under small trials. Plasma of recovered patients has saved many lives from deadly infections like HIV, Ebola and Corona. In the present article, efforts have been made to elaborate effectiveness of plasma therapy with its convenience and limitations.

Covid-19, Corona, Lockdown, Plasma Therapy NIL 2020-06-07 Popular Article Ankit More, Elssa Pandit, Swapnil Pawar

Ankit More

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, K. K. Wagh College of Agricultural Biotechnology, Nashik, Maharashtra (422 003), India

Elssa Pandit

Dept. of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Fakir Mohan University, Balasore, Odisha (756 019), India

Swapnil Pawar*

Dept. of Plant Biotechnology, K. K. Wagh College of Agricultural Biotechnology, Nashik, Maharashtra (422 003), India

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874 1734327453 Biotica Research Today Resin Canal Discolouration (RCD) – A Great Handling Disorder in Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Agriculture 405-406

In mango physiological disorders like flower drop, malformation, under skin browning (USB) and resin canal discolouration (RCD) were caused by nutritional insufficient and improper management practices during harvesting to storage. Among them, resin canal discolouration (RCD) was formed from exocarp (skin) to fleshy fruit portion (mesocarp) region. It was formed due to ecological imbalance of pressure between fruit and atmosphere during handling and transit stage. This canal browning discolouration was consisted with phenolic, starch substances associated with bacterial spp. of Enterobacter and Pantoea.  It acts against to pest and pathogen’s invasion and regulates the ethylene biosynthesis during fruit ripening. This discolouration causing severe reduction in marketable value and annoying experience in human diet. Following, proper farm practices from harvesting to storage to avoid the RCD and given the better money value for fruit merchants.

Mango, RCD, Enterobacter spp., P. stewartii NIL 2020-06-08 Popular Article Shreedevasena, S. and Murali Sankar, P.

Shreedevasena, S.*

Department of Plant Pathology, CPGSAS, Umiam, Barapani (793103), Meghalaya, India

Murali Sankar, P.

Department of Plant Pathology, CPPS, TNAU, Coimbatore (641003), Tamil Nadu, India

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875 1734327709 Biotica Research Today Advances in Production Techniques of Tuberose Agriculture 407-410

Tuberose is a monocot herbaceous perennial plant. It is mainly used as cut flower and loose flower. It is extensively cultivated in many sub-tropical and tropical parts of the world including India. It is native of Mexico and popularly known as Rajanigandha, derives its generic name from the greek word Polios, which means white or shining and anthos meaning a semi perennial bulbous plant. It is a half hardy plant with tuberous roots producing long spikes, bearing waxy white fragrant flowers which impregnate the atmosphere with their sweet fragrance. It is a crop which flowers profusely throughout the year. Due to the longer keeping quality of flower spikes, they are in great demand for making floral arrangement and bouquets in major cities of India. The cultivation practice of tuberose is more important and discussed in this paper.

Tuberose, Variety, Cultivation, Ratooning NIL 2020-06-09 Popular Article K. Kayalvizhi, A. Sankari, A. D. Ashok and J. Ravi Varman

K. Kayalvizhi*

Dept. of Horticulture, Institute of Agriculture, TNAU, Kumulur (621 712), Tamil Nadu, India

A. Sankari

Department of Vegetable Science, HC & RI, TNAU, Coimbatore (643 001), Tamil Nadu, India

A. D. Ashok

Dept. of Horticulture, Institute of Agriculture, TNAU, Kumulur (621 712), Tamil Nadu, India

J. Ravi Varman

Dept. of Horticulture, Institute of Agriculture, TNAU, Kumulur (621 712), Tamil Nadu, India

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876 1734328039 Biotica Research Today Why Soil Application of Zinc is Important to Alleviate Zinc Deficiency? Agriculture 411-413

Zinc deficiency in soils, plants and humans are widely realized across the globe. Management of Zn deficient soils is inevitable for sustaining the production and to achieve nutritional security. Soil and foliar applications are the most commonly used methods of Zn applications. In this article the advantages of soil application over foliar spray to mitigate Zn deficiency has been depicted. In foliar application, spraying beyond certain concentration injurious to crop and may not meet the total Zn requirement of the crops, results in soil Zn fertility decline, and repeated applications involves manpower and cost. Whereas soil application can be beneficial by its direct and residual effect to improve crop yield and meet the crop Zn requirement, single time application is sufficient for more than three crops and cost effective, improves the soil Zn fertility status. Therefore soil application of Zn is a viable option to alleviate Zn deficient soils.

Crop productivity, Residual soil zinc, Zinc deficiency, Zinc fertilization NIL 2020-06-10 Popular Article Rajendiran, S., Raghupathi, H. B., Raghu, B. R. and Venugopalan, R.

Rajendiran, S.*

ICAR - Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hesarghatta Lake Post, Bengaluru (560 089), Karnataka, India

Raghupathi, H.B.

ICAR - Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hesarghatta Lake Post, Bengaluru (560 089), Karnataka, India

Raghu, B.R.

ICAR - Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hesarghatta Lake Post, Bengaluru (560 089), Karnataka, India

Venugopalan, R.

ICAR - Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hesarghatta Lake Post, Bengaluru (560 089), Karnataka, India

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877 1734328280 Biotica Research Today Pests of Jasmine and Their Management Agriculture 414-415

Jasmines commonly called as “Queen of Night”. The jasmines are vulnerable to attack by a number of injuries insect and non-insect pests cause yield loss in this crop. Among the various pests, bud worm, blossom midge, gallery worm, leaf webworm, whitefly and eriophyid mite. These pests can be well efficiently managed by following integrated management tactics viz. cultural, mechanical, physical biological and chemical methods.

Jasmine, Insect pests, Damage, IPM NIL 2020-06-10 Popular Article I. Rabeena, A. Subash Chandra Bose, and T. Sathyan

I. Rabeena*

Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Madurai (625 104), Tamil Nadu, India

A. Subash Chandra Bose

S. Thangapazham Agriculture College, Vasudevanallur, Tenkasi (627 760), Tamil Nadu, India

T. Sathyan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, TNAU, Coimbatore (641 003), Tamil Nadu, India

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878 1734329175 Biotica Research Today Underutilized Fruit Crops- A Potential Source of Nutraceutical Significance Agriculture 416-418

Underutilized plants, in general, constitute those plant species that occur as life support species in extreme environmental conditions and threatened habitats, having genetic tolerance to survive under harsh conditions and possess qualities of nutritional and/or industrial importance for a variety of purposes. In the current scenario of increasing rate of degenerative diseases these plant materials can be used to manage them economically with fewer side effects when compared to modern medicines. In this chapter emphasis is given on few underutilized fruits available in India and their nutritional and potential health benefits to manage different diseases and disorders.

Underutilized fruit crops, Nutraceuticals, Health benefits, Bioactive compounds NIL 2020-06-11 Popular Article S. Padmapriya, M. Kavitha and V. A. Sathiyamurthy

S. Padmapriya*

Controllerate of Examinations, TNAU, Coimbatore (641003), Tamil Nadu, India

M. Kavitha

Controllerate of Examinations, TNAU, Coimbatore (641003), Tamil Nadu, India

V. A. Sathiyamurthy

Department of Vegetable Crops, HC&RI, Periyakulam (625601), Tamil Nadu, India

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879 1734329844 Biotica Research Today Artificial Seed / Synthetic Seed Production – Brief Procedure – Advantages and Limitations Agriculture 422-424

Synthetic seeds are the artificially encapsulated somatic embryos, shoot buds, cell aggregates, or any other tissue that possess the ability to convert into a plant under in vitro or in vivo conditions, retains the potentiality also after storage. Due to the quick development of somatic embryos it possess the potentiality for conservation and propagation of rare, endangered, critically endangered and threatened plants which are difficult to regenerate through conventional methods due to low seed set and poor seed germination. An improved artificial seed production technique is considered a valuable alternate technology of propagation in many commercially important crops and a significant method for mass propagation of elite plant genotypes. There are several advantages of artificial seeds such as ease of handling, low production cost, ease of exchange of plant materials, genetic uniformity of plantlets, direct delivery to the soil, shorten the breeding cycle and reduction of the storage space.

Artificial Seed, Encapsulation, Micropropagation, Synthetic seed. NIL 2020-06-11 Popular Article Digvijay Singh, Subhajit Pal, Swapnil, Anuradha Sinha

Digvijay Singh*

Department of Plant Breeding & Genetics, Bihar Agricultural College, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour (813 210), Bihar, India

Subhajit Pal

Department of Agricultural Entomology, Institute of Agriculture, PSB, Visva Bharati University, West Bengal (731 236), India

Swapnil

Department of Plant Breeding & Genetics, Bihar Agricultural College, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour (813 210), Bihar, India

Anuradha Sinha

Department of Horticulture (Veg. and Flori.), Bihar Agricultural College, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour (813 210), Bihar, India

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880 1734330134 Biotica Research Today Biochar - The New Black Gold Agriculture 425-427

Conventionally, farmers, after meeting the cattle feed requirements, have been using the crop residues as either cattle feed, fire wood or burning, which is finally leading to environmental pollution, loss of valuable nutrients, organic carbon and increase in greenhouse gas emission. Though several options are available to utilize these residues by converting into compost, vermicompost, of late, scientists have come out with a permanent solution i.e., conversion of this waste into wealth in the form of biochar. It is produced through thermo-chemical conversion of plant biomass at high temperature in the absence of oxygen. It improves soil fertility and productivity through improvement of soil physical and chemical properties. It reduces heavy metal contamination in the soils. Biochar helps in carbon sequestration and reducing greenhouse gas emission, thus, minimizes the ill effects of global climate change. Its addition has the potential to double the crops yields thus improves farm income.

Biochar, Soil quality, Remediation, Carbon sequestration NIL 2020-06-12 Popular Article Sainath Nagula and A. V. Ramanjaneyulu

Sainath Nagula*

Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Agricultural Research Station, Tornala (502 114), Telangana, India

A. V. Ramanjaneyulu

Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Agricultural Research Station, Tornala (502 114), Telangana, India

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881 1734330382 Biotica Research Today Single Use Plastics- Its Impact and Sustainability Agriculture 428-431

Plastic pollution is used to compromise the safety of our food supplies, soils, water and wildlife.  Globally, only nine percent of all plastic waste ever produced has been recycled. About 12 percent has been incinerated, while the remaining 79 percent has accumulated in landfills, dumps or the natural environment. India generates 95 lakhs tonnes plastic waste per year of which 38 lakhs tonnes is uncollected i.e. Single Use Plastics (SUP), ended in dumps, rivers and even our animals. Mismanagement of Single Use Plastics (SUP) shows environmental, economic and health impacts. Globally, a number of countries have taken up initiatives to ban Single Use Plastics in Phase out manner. In India, a massive community mobilization for Plastic Waste Shramdan and banning of Single Use Plastics has been organized under “Swachhata Hi Sewa” program in 2019-2020. Glass, paper and cardboards can be used as alternatives to plastics.

Single use plastics, Pollution, Impact, Shramdan NIL 2020-06-13 Popular Article L. C. De

L. C. De

ICAR-NRC for Orchids, Pakyong (737106), Sikkim, India

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882 1734331133 Biotica Research Today Drought and Salinity Stress Response in Flower Crops Agriculture 435-437

Drought has a greater impact on the productivity of flower crops. Lower water potential, a continuous shortfall in precipitation may be accounted for causing drought stress. As a result of this plants undergo some major physiological changes involving alteration in size and rate of photosynthesis, activity of pigments. Hence, as a result, the yield parameters like size and weight may be observed. This article envisages on effect and impact of salinity and drought on the growth, yield and the quality of flower crops.

Drought, Salinity, Flower crops, Stress NIL 2020-06-15 Popular Article M. Kavitha, S. Padmapriya and A. Sankari

M. Kavitha*

Controllerate of Examinations, TNAU, Coimbatore (641003), Tamil Nadu, India

S. Padmapriya

Controllerate of Examinations, TNAU, Coimbatore (641003), Tamil Nadu, India

A. Sankari

Department of Vegetables Crops, TNAU, Coimbatore (641003), Tamil Nadu, India

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883 1734331578 Biotica Research Today Moringa Leaf – A Super Food Agriculture 438-440

Moringa (Moringa oleifera) an Indian originated vegetable crop termed as “super food” because of its nutritional as well as medicinal properties, popularly been cultivated in tropical regions of the world. Moringa leaf is a potent source of nutrients minerals and antioxidant properties which helps to have healthy human life. International demand for moringa leaf is in increasing trend, shows a positive sign to farmers to get into moringa farming for leaf production instead of the traditional practice of moringa pod production.

Moringa, Super food, Nutraceuticals, Leaf production NIL 2020-06-15 Popular Article R. Balakumbahan, V. A. Sathiyamurthy and G. J. Janavi

R. Balakumbahan*

Department of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

V. A. Sathiyamurthy

Department of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

G. J. Janavi

Department of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

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884 1734332146 Biotica Research Today Role of Soil Enzymes in Agroecosystem Agriculture 443-444

Soil enzymes play a vital role in nutrient cycling in agroecosystem. Soil enzymes are the mediators and catalysts of important soil functions that include- decomposition of organic inputs, transformation of native soil organic matter, release of inorganic nutrients for plant growth, N2 fixation and denitrification. Soil micro-organisms, plant roots and animals are the primary source of soil enzymes. Hence, we briefly summarize the potential roles of selected soil enzymes such as urease, β-glucosidase, cellulase, dehydrogenase, phosphatase and protease in the agroecosystem.

Soil enzymes, Nutrient cycle, Organic matter, Soil microbes NIL 2020-06-15 Popular Article M. Sudhakaran, A. Ravanachandar

M. Sudhakaran*

Department of Environmental Sciences, J.K.K. Munirajah College of Agricultural Sciences, Erode, Tamil Nadu (638 506), India

A. Ravanachandar

Department of Horticulture, J.K.K. Munirajah College of Agricultural Sciences, Erode, Tamil Nadu (638 506), India

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885 1734332405 Biotica Research Today Indigenous Ornamental Fish of North-East India: Present Status, Threats and Conservation Strategies Agriculture 445-447

The north-eastern part of India is regarded as one of the four the major biodiversity hotspot region, which is a repository of precious variety of indigenous fishes. Due to its unique geographical location and climatic condition it has become a home land to plenty number of ornamental fishes of unique attractive feature and colour. However due to several natural and anthropogenic activities many varieties of important endemic ornamental fishes having ample economic opportunity got extinct from the habitat. The present article focuses on major threats for the endemic ornamental fishes of north-east India and future strategies to be adopted for sustainable management and conservation.

Endemic, Ornamental fishes, North-east, Conservation NIL 2020-06-16 Popular Article Abhilipsa Biswal, Tapas Paul, Subam Debroy and Sourav Debnath

Abhilipsa Biswal*

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai (400 061), Maharashtra, India

Tapas Paul

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai (400 061), Maharashtra, India

Subam Debroy

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai (400 061), Maharashtra, India

Sourav Debnath

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai (400 061), Maharashtra, India

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886 1734332822 Biotica Research Today Rice Production in Coastal Karnataka: Soil Constraints and Agronomical Strategies Agriculture 451-453

Rice productivity in Dakshina Kannada district of coastal Karnataka is limited by soil constraints like soil acidity, poor physical condition of the soils, low soil fertility and toxicity of nutrient elements and nutrient imbalance. Adoption of soil management practices like acid soil amelioration, integrated nutrient management, judicious use of fertilizers, soil and water conservation practices, inclusion of legumes in cropping system and adoption of site specific nutrient management are some of the agronomic management strategies suggested for realizing profitable rice production.

Rice, Soil constraints, Agronomical strategies, Integrated nutrient management NIL 2020-06-17 Popular Article Harish Shenoy

Harish Shenoy

Department of Agronomy, Livestock Research and Information Centre (Amrithmahal), Karnataka Veterinary Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Konehalli, Tiptur (572 201), Karnataka, India

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887 1734332988 Biotica Research Today Applications of Smartphone Sensors in Agriculture Agriculture 454-455

In this article we discuss the use of smartphone in agriculture, different sensors available on smartphones and their applications. Smartphones have become big part of our daily life and they can be used in agriculture for various application ranging crop and crop disease detection, crop canopy, improving agricultural productivity, irrigation scheduling, monitor pest damage and ripeness of fruits etc. There is different type of sensors available on smartphones like Camera, GPS, Microphone, Accelerometer and Gyroscope which can be harnessed for various applications. There are apps like Plantix which identifies diseases in plants, apps for fertiliser calculations, apps for irrigation water requirement calculation and scheduling and many others.

Smartphone, Smartphone sensors, Precision agriculture, Apps NIL 2020-06-17 Popular Article Mukesh Kumar Mehla

Mukesh Kumar Mehla

Department of Soil and Water Engineering, College of Technology and Engineering, MPUAT, Udaipur (313 001), Rajasthan, India

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888 1734333187 Biotica Research Today Nanotechnology: Advanced Technique in Postharvest Management of Horticultural Crops Agriculture 456-458

The post-harvest loss estimates are one-third of food products every year and is one of the important issues in storage of fruits and vegetables. These losses depend upon many factors like type of crop, method of crop harvesting, distance from field to storage, etc. Fruits and vegetables are perishable in nature and their chances to spoil are more. The major reasons for post-harvest losses are microbial attack, moisture, degradation, physical and chemical contamination, etc. Nanotechnology has arrived as great help in all science and industry branches. Nanoparticles having particular characteristics are useful in postharvest technologies. It can improve the post-harvest shelf life by controlling the growth, development and spread of disease causing microorganisms. With the development of new generation of packaging coverage’s (Films), increasing strength, quality and packaging beauty and using the nanobiosensors for labelling the food products has proved beneficial for controlling postharvest losses.

Nanotechnology, Nanobiosensors, Photocatalysis, Labelling NIL 2020-06-18 Popular Article Khyati Singh

Khyati Singh

Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125004), India

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889 1734411282 Biotica Research Today Virtual Water - Does Indian Agriculture Really Need It? Agriculture 462-464

Agriculture is the major employment provider in India. But if the current food export policy continues India could fail to meet its water requirement in less than 300 years and could run out of available water in less than 500 years. India is amongst the world’s largest unconscious exporters of Virtual Water which is the fresh water embedded in commodities. A country that exports water intensive crops or products, is in effect exporting the water needed to grow it. India needs to consider the export of virtual water through trade of water-intensive agricultural products. This is essential to safeguard the indispensable resource like water.

Agriculture, Embedded water, Virtual water, Water scarcity NIL 2020-06-24 Popular Article Sasmitha R., R. Arunachalam, A. Muhammad Iqshanullah and M. Nirmaladevi

Sasmitha R.*

Agricultural College & Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

R. Arunachalam

Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Sociology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

A. Muhammad Iqshanullah

STAC, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Thirunelveli, Tamil Nadu (627 758), India

M. Nirmaladevi

Agricultural College & Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

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890 1734411606 Biotica Research Today Concept of Organic Farming Agriculture 465-468

Organic farming is a system which avoids or largely excludes the use of synthetic inputs (such as fertilizers, pesticides, hormones, feed additives etc.) and to the maximum extent feasible rely upon crop rotations, crop residues, animal manures, off-farm organic waste, mineral grade rock additives and biological system of nutrient mobilization and plant protection. Organic farming is nothing new, but the need of the hour is to chalk out of a definite strategy on this issue and linking of sources of production to the market.

Organic farming, Mobilization, Plant protection, Organic waste NIL 2020-06-25 Popular Article Osheen Raizada and Rakesh Giri Goswami

Osheen Raizada

Department of Horticulture, Pt. K.L.S. COH, Rajnandgaon (491 441), Chhattisgarh, India

Rakesh Giri Goswami*

Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Pt. K.L.S. COH, Rajnandgaon (491 441), Chhattisgarh, India

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891 1734411854 Biotica Research Today Madhuca indica - A Tree for All Reasons Agriculture 469-471

Madhuca indica a tree that is worshipped by tribal has versatile uses. It is an economic tree for tribal people as selling of its flowers, fruits and seeds fetch income enough to meet their day to day expenses. Every part of the tree has its own importance in one or other way. However, flowers have more weightage as they possess good nutritional value thus useful for various preparations like jams, jellies, biscuits, cakes, fermented products and many other food items. Pale yellow colored oil is extracted from seed which is widely used as adulterant by the tribal community, besides the fact that it has a number of applications in cosmetic industry. Madhuca species though has potential use often neglected due to unawareness. This article mainly focuses on how it can be put to use for various purposes.

Butter tree, Mahua, Mahua butter, Medicinal value NIL 2020-06-25 Popular Article K. Lakshmiprasanna and K. Aparna

K. Lakshmiprasanna*

MFPI- Quality Control Laboratory, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad (500 030), Telangana, India

K. Aparna

MFPI- Quality Control Laboratory, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad (500 030), Telangana, India

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892 1734412090 Biotica Research Today Production Technology of Bougainvillea Spp. Agriculture 472-474

Bougainvillea belong to Nyctaginaceae family and the most important flowering shrubs of tropics and sub-tropics. It is native of South America. It is used in beautification of landscape and road side planting. Bougainvillea provides hedges, barriers, and slope coverings. Bougainvillea’s growth habit and beautiful showy bracts make it a popular plant for landscapes. These plants are propagated from cuttings, budding, by ground or air layering methods. The best planting seasons is rainy.

Bougainvillea, Cultivation, Cultivar, Production technology NIL 2020-06-25 Popular Article Krishan Kumar Singh, Shiv Pratap Singh, Brahmanand Bairwa and J. S. Chauhan

Krishan Kumar Singh

Department of Horticulture, H.N.B. Garhwal University, Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttarakhand (249 161), India

Shiv Pratap Singh

Department of Botany, Hindu College, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh (244 001), India

Brahmanand Bairwa

School of Agriculture Sciences, Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

J. S. Chauhan

Department of Seed Science and Technology, H.N.B. Garhwal University, Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttarakhand (249 161), India

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893 1734412406 Biotica Research Today Sulphide Mineral Leaching and Chemistry of Sulphide Oxidation by Bacteria Agriculture 475-477

Bioleaching is a technology which employs extraction of metals from low-grade ores and concentrates by environmental-friendly process. The microorganisms or its metabolites plays crucial role in the dissolution of metals by attacking mineral surface. The extraction of metals from sulphide mineral involves a group of chemolithotrophic bacteria, especially Thiobacillus ferrooxidans and T. thiooxidans. Whereas, heterotrophic bacteria are used for treating minerals other than sulphides. In these cases, production of organic acids, are produced into the surrounding by the microorganisms for metal solubilization.

Bioleaching, Oxidation, Chemolithotrophic bacteria, Pyrite NIL 2020-06-25 Popular Article R. Sangeetha Piriya, Sadish Oumabady and T. Ilakiya

R. Sangeetha Piriya*

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Sadish Oumabady

Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

T. Ilakiya

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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894 1734412882 Biotica Research Today Livestock and Soil Health Agriculture 478-479

Due to intensification of agriculture, several soil related problems emerges which decline the soil health and quality. It is very crucial to maintain the health of soil; which is one of the most important natural resources. Soil organic matter or soil organic carbon plays an important role in maintaining the soil health. Soil health is governed by different physical, chemical and biological properties, which are interlinked and correlated to each other. Disturbing/ changing one property affects others and leads to change in soil health. Livestock has a very important role in maintaining the soil health as it is very important source of soil organic carbon through its manure, if managed properly.

Soil organic carbon, Organic manure, Soil properties NIL 2020-06-25 Popular Article B. C. Verma, M. Kumar, L. G. Mawlong, S. Roy, A. Banarjee and S. M. Prasad

B. C. Verma*

Central Rainfed Upland Rice Research Station (CRURRS), (ICAR NRRI), Hazaribagh (825 301), Jharkhand, India

M. Kumar

ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, RCM, Darbhanga (846 005), Bihar, India

L. G. Mawlong

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam (793 103), Meghalaya, India

S. Roy

Central Rainfed Upland Rice Research Station (CRURRS), (ICAR NRRI), Hazaribagh (825 301), Jharkhand, India

A. Banarjee

Central Rainfed Upland Rice Research Station (CRURRS), (ICAR NRRI), Hazaribagh (825 301), Jharkhand, India

S. M. Prasad

Central Rainfed Upland Rice Research Station (CRURRS), (ICAR NRRI), Hazaribagh (825 301), Jharkhand, India

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895 1734413225 Biotica Research Today Green Gold and the Himalayas Agriculture 480-483

Bamboo belongs to the grass family Poaceae and is recognized as the fastest growing plant on earth. It is considered as an economic resource for a wide range of uses and for poverty alleviation for tribal in particular. The role of bamboo in the economy of the Himalayan people is of utmost importance. The present article deals with a list of bamboos occurring in Himalayas with their vernacular names, distribution and different tribes found in this Himalayan Range especially the lesser Himalayas. However extensive study is required to know emphatically about the bamboo diversity of the Himalayan state.

Bamboo, Himalayas, Tribes, Economy NIL 2020-06-26 Popular Article Anuradha Thakur

Anuradha Thakur

Dept. of Silviculture and Agroforestry, Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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896 1734413404 Biotica Research Today Climate Change: It’s Impact on Biodiversity and Human Society Agriculture 484-486

The agenda of Climate change and its profound impact is no doubt the sine qua non for any effort towards sustainable and inclusive development at present. According to The Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) climate change refers to “change in climate over time, either due to natural variability or as a result of human activities”. The significant decline in concentration of particulate matter and other pollutants as well as the resurgence of natural ecosystems during the near global lockdown restrictions under COVID-19 showing us the mirror regarding what we have lost due to anthropogenic climate change.

Biodiversity, Humanity, Climate resilient, Afforestation NIL 2020-06-26 Popular Article Mitali Dash, Jyoti Prakash Sahoo and Kailash Chandra Samal

Mitali Dash

Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar (751 003), Odisha, India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar (751 003), Odisha, India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar (751 003), Odisha, India

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897 1734413818 Biotica Research Today Vermicompost – A Profitable Entrepreneurship Agriculture 487-488

Vermicomposting is a source of creating self employment and revenue generation. This is an easy and faster process of converting organic matter into compost than other conventional methods. Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Mehsana had organized 200 hours skill training on Vermicompost   Producer in collaboration with Agricultural Skill Council of India, New Delhi. In this training total 20 Farm women of Mehsana District had participated. Mrs. Subhadraben Patel is one of the participants of this skill training. We have given completely theory and practical training to these participants. After skill training, she focuses main concentrate on quality production of vermicompost in her village with members of Mahila vermicompost Self Help Group. Mahila vermicompost group has produce 4350 kg of vermicompost and get net return of Rs. 21,740.00 only and from bio pesticides they produce 200 liter of bio-pesticides and get net return of Rs. 9,000.00 only. She argued that his product is demanded by nearby farmers, she is encouraging interested farmers and farm women to prepare this multifunctional quality product on their own farms so that farming community can be benefitted.

Vermicompost, Bio-pesticides, Entrepreneur, Self Help Group NIL 2020-06-26 Success story Sharad M. Soni and Ramesh A. Patel

Sharad M. Soni*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ganpat University, Mehsana, Gujarat (384 240), India

Ramesh A. Patel

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ganpat University, Mehsana, Gujarat (384 240), India

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898 1734414355 Biotica Research Today Somatic Embryogenesis: A Multi-Step Plant Regeneration Process Agriculture 493-495

In Somatic Embryogenesis (SE), embryos form a sexually from somatic cells. Somatic embryogenesis is most commonly associated with the in vitro culture of excised tissues in a nutrient medium containing exogenously supplied plant growth regulators. Plants which undergo apomixis develop embryos in the ovule without fertilization and fertile seeds are produced with the same genotype as the parent. This method is used in transformation procedures for many species. For this the differentiated plant cell needs to dedifferentiate (unless the cell is already meristematic) and form a stem cell, which develops through characteristic embryological stages to produce every cell type of the new plant. Therefore, the progenitor cell of a somatic embryo is a totipotent stem cell. A complete process of somatic embryogenesis involves induction of embryogenesis, embryo development, embryo maturation, and their conversion or germination to form complete plants and there are various factors that affect the process.

Embryogenesis, Callus, Somatic, Explant NIL 2020-06-27 Popular Article Swapnil, Digvijay Singh, Anuradha Sinha and Subhajit Pal

Swapnil*

Department of Plant Breeding & Genetics, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour (813 210), Bhagalpur, Bihar, India

Digvijay Singh

Department of Plant Breeding & Genetics, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour (813 210), Bhagalpur, Bihar, India

Anuradha Sinha

Department of Horticulture (Veg. and Flori.), Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour (813 210), Bhagalpur, Bihar, India

Subhajit Pal

Department of Agricultural Entomology, Institute of Agriculture, PSB, Visva Bharati University, Shantiniketan (731 236), West Bengal, India

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899 1734414652 Biotica Research Today Role of Statistical Soft Computing in Agricultural Price Forecasting Agriculture 496-498

Statistical Soft computing & Time series modelling is a dynamic research, which aims to carefully collect and rigorously study the past observations of a time series to develop an appropriate model which describes the inherent structure of the series. Time series forecasting thus can be termed as the act of predicting the future by understanding the past. Price forecasting help famers to take effective decision regarding market price (mandi price) or selling price of their crop, which crop to grow to earn profit, ultimately improve the condition and income of famer and also helps policy maker for agriculture decision. For price forecasting of agricultural crops ARIMA (Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average) Model & ANN (Artificial Neural Network) is used. Neural Network approaches are applied in the field of agriculture for price forecasting in both short term and long terms Forecasting.

Soft Computing, Price forecasting, ARIMA, ANN NIL 2020-06-29 Popular Article Chinmayee Patra, Subrat Kumar Mahapatra

Chinmayee Patra

Palli Siksha Bhavan, Visva Bharati University, Bolpur (731 204), West Bengal, India

Subrat Kumar Mahapatra*

College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology (OUAT), Surya Nagar, Bhubaneswar (751 003), Odisha, India

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900 1734416091 Biotica Research Today Molecular Diagnostic Techniques in Seed Purity Assessment Agriculture 503-505

A high level of genetic purity in crop plants should be maintained for good agronomic performance to encourage the innovations in plant breeding strategies. It ensures the improvements in productivity and subsequently delivered to farmer. Traditionally, morphological comparisons of seeds and grown plants have formed the basis for genetic purity evaluations and certification. Morphology cannot provide information on the purity of specific genetic attributes that relate to grain quality or to pest or herbicide resistance bred into varieties so newer DNA-based biotechnological tools are required for seed purity assessment in crop plants.

Genetic purity, Grow out test, Molecular Markers, DNA fingerprinting NIL 2020-06-29 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar (751 003), Odisha, India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar (751 003), Odisha, India

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901 1734416864 Biotica Research Today The Queen - Mangosteen Agriculture 513-514

Fruit has a unique sweet-sour taste and rich in beneficial compounds such as xanthones. Mangosteen has been originally used in various folk medicines to treat diarrhea, wound, and fever. More recently, it has been used as a major component in health supplement products for weight loss and promoting general health. This is perhaps due to its known medicinal benefits including as anti-oxidant and anti-inflammation.

Health benefits, Anti-oxidant, Immunity booster, Menstrual disorders NIL 2020-06-29 Popular Article A. Ravanachandar, M. Sudhakaran

A. Ravanachandar*

Department of Horticulture, J.K.K. Munirajah College of Agricultural Sciences, Erode, Tamil Nadu (638 506), India

M. Sudhakaran

Department of Environmental Sciences, J.K.K. Munirajah College of Agricultural Sciences, Erode, Tamil Nadu (638 506), India

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902 1734586242 Biotica Research Today Shifting of Traditional Livestock Farming to Commercial Farming Agriculture 526-528

Pig farming is an important livelihood source for the tribal people in India. However, the pig farms are faced with a number of problems. The study was carried out in Dogormokha village under Udalguri Subdivision of District Udalguri, BTAD, Assam regarding the increase of farm income through adopting scientific rearing of livestock specially piggery over traditional farming system. The present survey revealed that the selected innovative farmer was able to earn an annual net profit of Rs. 34,000.00 only from piggery sector, Rs. 14,000.00 only form goatery and Rs. 11,000.00 only from poultry rearing.

Piggery, Goatery, Net profit, Livestock NIL 2020-07-07 Success story P. Rajbongshi, K. D. Nath and D. Borah

P. Rajbongshi*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool BTAD, Udalguri (784 514), Assam, India

K. D. Nath

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool BTAD, Udalguri (784 514), Assam, India

D. Borah

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Lalpool BTAD, Udalguri (784 514), Assam, India

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903 1734586517 Biotica Research Today Mite Pest of Mushroom Cultivation and Their Management Agriculture 529-530

Mushroom is highly proteinaceous food having many beneficial impacts on human health. Mite species like Tyrophagus spp, Tarsonemus myceliophagus, Pygmephorus are reported from mushroom cultivation having the potentiality to cause severe yield loss if proper management option has not taken. Sanitation, use of good quality compost and application of disinfectants are considered as key components for mite management in mushroom cultivation.

Mushroom, Pygmephorus, Tarsonemus, Tyrophagus NIL 2020-07-07 Popular Article Shamik Dey

Shamik Dey

Department of Agricultural Entomology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

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904 1734586846 Biotica Research Today Fishery By-products: A Current and Optimistic Technique of Commerce Agriculture 531-534

Now-a-days the matter of fish waste has concerned considerable attention to the food producers, processors, retailers, and consumers, because the waste from fish generated during a huge amount from the fish processing industries, retail markets and also from the by-catch at the fishing harbour. Non-utilization of those waste products not only cause negative externalities to society but also causes environmental pollution and ecological onus. To secure from pollution and to scale back waste, it's now become important to possess a comprehensive understanding about the recycle and/or conversion of those fish wastes into useful products of higher nutritive value and betterment of human society. To secure from pollution and to scale back waste, it's now become important to possess a comprehensive understanding about the recycle and/or conversion of those fish wastes into useful products for betterment of human society.

Fish, Pollution, Utilization, Waste NIL 2020-07-07 Popular Article Biswajit Mohanty

Biswajit Mohanty

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

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905 1734587791 Biotica Research Today Contribution of Fish in Human Nutrition Agriculture 544-546

In a world where nearly 30 percent of humanity suffers from malnutrition and more than 70 percent of the planet is covered by water, aquatic food especially fish forms an essential part in the human nutrition. This article reviews the nutritional composition of fish and therefore the health benefits of fish. In addition to the superior nutritional profile and benefits of fish, it play a crucial role within the nutrition of the poor as a reasonable and far needed source of top quality animal protein and essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. As one of the simplest aquatic animal food, fish from a nutritional perspective and the direct consumption of fish and fishery products should be encouraged and promoted to maintain a healthy life.

Fish, Macronutrients, Micronutrients, Nutrition NIL 2020-07-08 Popular Article Biswajit Mohanty

Biswajit Mohanty

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

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906 1734590092 Biotica Research Today Silicon Nutrition in Rice Agriculture 565-566

Silicon is the second most abundant element with a concentration of 27.6% both on earth crust and in the soil. Even though it is not categorized as essential element it plays a good role in stimulating the growth and development of many plant species. Beneficial role of Si is able to mitigate both biotic and abiotic stresses. It is well known that silicon (Si) is present in primary silicate minerals, secondary alumino silicates and various forms of SiO2. Si is not found in Free State. It is a tetravalent (Si4+) element. It occurs as the oxide silica, SiO2 in various forms like quartz, agate and flint. Monosilicic acid Si(OH)4, is the prevailing form in soil solution and it’s concentrations in the soil solution are usually ranging from 14 to 20 mg/l of Si. Silicon reduces leaching of phosphorous (P), potassium (K) and it improves soil physical, chemical and biological properties, improved water holding capacity, improved soil texture and increased cationic exchange capacity.

Abiotic stress, Biotic stress, Monosilicic acid, Silicon NIL 2020-07-13 Popular Article Durga C.

Durga C.

Dept. of Agronomy, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India

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907 1734590012 Biotica Research Today Rainfed Cultivation: A Roadmap towards Sustainable Food Production Agriculture 475-476

In dry and semi-arid regions, rainfed agriculture, which depends as it were on characteristic precipitation for irrigation, is fundamental to the world's nourishment generation and the jobs of millions of agriculturists. Worldwide populace proceeds to rise; the requirement for feasible rural hones gets to be progressively pressing, particularly in the confrontment of climate alter, soil debasement and water shortage. It presents a comprehensive guide for optimizing rainfed farming to upgrade nourishment security and advance maintainability. The selection of agro eco-practices, improvement of drought-resistant assortments, venture in rancher instruction and advancement of framework for advertise get to and water administration. The guide too highlights how significant community association and strong government arrangements are to the move to economical rainfed frameworks. By joining inventive investigate, capacity building and maintainable hones, we can reinforce the versatility of rainfed agribusiness, guaranteeing it contributes viably to the worldwide nourishment supply and natural supportability, whereas upgrading the socio-economic well-being of ranchers.

Climate change, Dryland, Rainfed, Sustainable NIL 2024-11-24 Popular Article Manickaselvi M. and Murali Sankar P.

Manickaselvi M.*

Dept. of Agronomy, PCAS, Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu (622 303), India

Murali Sankar P.

Dept. of Plant Pathology, PCAS, Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu (622 303), India

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908 1734590503 Biotica Research Today Quality Seed Production of Zucchini Agriculture 570-572

Zucchini, a new gourd introduced to India belongs to family Cucurbitaceae. Being a good source of Vitamin A, Calcium and Phosphorous, it is becoming famous in the country. India has rich climatic diversity and has great potential to improve the local cultivars by appropriate breeding methods and develop improved varieties and hybrid. It can be cultivated throughout India and seed production is proved to be a profitable endeavor. For production of quality of crop, it is necessary to perform rouging at correct stage of plant growth based on morphological characters of plants and by maintaining the isolation distance.

Isolation distance, Quality Seed, Rouging, Zucchini NIL 2020-07-14 Popular Article Khyati Singh

Khyati Singh

Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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909 1734590701 Biotica Research Today Synthetic Seed Production Technology Agriculture 573-577

Synthetic seeds are defined as artificially encapsulated somatic embryos, shoot buds, cell aggregates, or any other tissue that can be used for sowing as a seed and that possess the ability to convert into a plant under in vitro or ex vitro conditions and that retain this potential also after storage. The technology designed to combine the advantages of clonal propagation with those of seed propagation and storage. Also be as channel for new plant lines produced through biotechnology advances. The importance of synthetic seed is realized nowadays and this paper discuss about the synthetic seed production technology.

Horticultural crops, Limitations and Advantages, Methods, Synthetic seed NIL 2020-07-14 Popular Article A. Sankari, R. Swarna Priya and B. K. Savitha

A. Sankari*

Department of Vegetable Science, HC & RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641003), India

R. Swarna Priya

Department of Vegetable Science, HC & RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641003), India

B. K. Savitha

Department of Vegetable Science, HC & RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641003), India

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910 1734590424 Biotica Research Today Boll Rot Disease Complex: An Emerging Foe of Cotton in India Agriculture 477-479

Cotton is the leading cash crop of the world and often referred as “white gold” due to its economic and industrial importance. India ranks first globally in terms of area and production in cotton, which is extensively cultivated across its northern, central and southern zones. Cotton faces significant biotic stresses, especially diseases. Since the commercialization of Bt-cotton, disease dynamics have changed rapidly, with diseases like boll rot, cotton necrosis and target leaf spot emerging in recent years as major threats. Boll rot, a disease complex reported to be incited by many fungal and bacterial pathogens, is drastically affecting fiber yield and/or fiber quality. This article focuses on symptomatic identification, predisposing factors responsible for the disease outbreak and integrated management strategies to check the menace which will be a great help to the farming community.

Boll rot, Cotton, Favourable condition, Integrated management https://doi.org/10.54083/BioResToday/6.11.2024/477-479 2024-11-28 Popular Article Licon Kumar Acharya, Mukesh K. Khokhar, Anoop Kumar and Ajanta Birah

Licon Kumar Acharya*

ICAR-National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, New Delhi (110 068), India

Mukesh K. Khokhar

ICAR-National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, New Delhi (110 068), India

Anoop Kumar

ICAR-National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, New Delhi (110 068), India

Ajanta Birah

ICAR-National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, New Delhi (110 068), India

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911 1734591164 Biotica Research Today Scientific Cultivation of Muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) Agriculture 580-583

Muskmelon [Cucumis melo L.] being a warm season crop grown in tropic regions throughout the world for its unique taste and flavour and consumed as a dessert. The major growing states in India are Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh etc. It thrives best in sandy loamy texture soils and the desired temperature is 20-25 0C. About 1.5-2 kg seeds are enough for one-hectare area. Seeds are sown in pits (60 cm x 60 cm x 45 cm) at a distance of 150-200 cm between channels and 60-90 cm between hills. Recommended doses of manures and fertilizers should be applied. Harvesting of fruits is done by the defined maturity indices and later on harvested fruits can be stored at 5 0C with 95% relative humidity for 5-10 days. The regular inspection is necessary to raise a healthy crop.

Maturity indices, Muskmelon, Scientific cultivation, Yield NIL 2020-07-15 Popular Article Etalesh Goutam, Bharti, Krishan Kumar Singh and Govind Vishwakarma

Etalesh Goutam*

Dept. of Horticulture, H.N.B. Garhwal University, Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttarakhand (249 161), India

Bharti

Dept. of Horticulture, H.N.B. Garhwal University, Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttarakhand (249 161), India

Krishan Kumar Singh

Dept. of Horticulture, H.N.B. Garhwal University, Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttarakhand (249 161), India

Govind Vishwakarma

Dept. of Horticulture, Doon (PG) College of Agriculture Science and Technology, Dehradun, Uttarakhand (248 197), India

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912 1735011956 Biotica Research Today Role of Nanotechnology in Precision Farming Agriculture 584-586

Nanotechnology is the modernized, advanced system of applied technologies in research field. The present scenario of polluted and degraded environment due to heavy use of inorganic fertilizer, pesticides have caused more damages to not only crops, soil, animals but also to humans. Precision farming is the modern age farming that includes various advanced technologies with it. Nanotechnology can be a suitable enhancement option for better agriculture in future as it uses techniques like nanoparticles, nano-capsules, nano-encapsulated fertilizers, pesticides that help in slow and sustained release of nutrients and chemicals for better use efficiency and plant growth. Various nanotech kits have been evolved for early detection and proper control of plant diseases and pests.

Biosensors, Nano technology, Nano particles, Precision farming NIL 2020-07-15 Popular Article Kumar Chiranjeeb, Manoranjan Senapati

Kumar Chiranjeeb*

Department of Soil Science, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Manoranjan Senapati

Division of Genetics, ICAR-IARI, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

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913 1735012602 Biotica Research Today Green Manuring Agriculture 587-588

Green manuring is the practice for improving soil fertility and productivity by ploughing and turning undecomposed green plant tissue into the soil. It adds organic matter in to the soil and improves water holding capacity. There are two types of green manuring, i.e. green manuring in situ and green leaf manuring. Green manuring in situ means green manure crops like Cowpea, Dhaincha, Sunnhemp etc. are grown and incorporated in the same field. Green leaf manuring is pruning of green leaves or twigs from various trees like Glyricidia, Pongamia, Subabul, etc. are collected from elsewhere and incorporated in to another field as manure. It improves the soils’ physio-chemical and biological properties and fertility.

Chemical fertilizers, Green manuring in situ, Green leaf manuring, Nutrient content NIL 2020-07-15 Popular Article Durga C.

Durga C.

Dept. of Agronomy, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India

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914 1735012774 Biotica Research Today Tonic Immobility: A Defence Strategy in Insects Agriculture 589-592

Anti-predatory defences are crucial to many aspects of behavioural ecology. Thanatosis (often called death-feigning) in this regard has long been an under-appreciated defence, despite being taxonomically and ecologically widespread. The behavioural defence in insects has been well established among insects, out of which tonic immobility or feigning death or thanatosis is a distinguishing phenomenon.

Anti-predatory, Defence, Thanatosis, Tonic immobility NIL 2020-07-16 Popular Article Ipsita Samal, Bhupen Kumar Sahu

Ipsita Samal*

Division of Entomology, ICAR-IARI, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Bhupen Kumar Sahu

Department of Sericulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

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915 1735013024 Biotica Research Today Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR): A Biological Tool for Improving Plant Health Agriculture 593-595

A number of microbes such as fungi, bacteria and viruses and their microbial products that stimulate plant growth have been marketed. Among these beneficial microorganisms, we restrict ourselves to bacteria that are derived from and exert this effect on the root. Such bacteria are generally designated as Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). Generally, PGPR stimulate the plant growth directly as (a) biofertilization, (b) stimulation of root growth, (c) rhizoremediation, and (d) plant stress control or indirectly by reducing the level of disease, including antibiosis, induction of systemic resistance, and competition for nutrients and niche. Such bacteria may also decrease the global dependence on hazardous pesticides which destabilize the agro-ecosystems, thereby developing an effective ways of sustainable agriculture for improving crop productivity with a minimal disturbance to the environment. In this review we explicit outlooks on the different mechanisms of rhizobacteria mediated plant growth promotion with the recent development and research.

Antagonism, Biofertilizers, PGPR, Plant health NIL 2020-07-19 Popular Article Devesh Pathak, Vaibhav Pratap Singh, Jyoti Sharma and Ashish Sheera

Devesh Pathak*

Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh (202 002), India

Vaibhav Pratap Singh

Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh (202 002), India

Jyoti Sharma

Department of Life Science, University of Delhi, South Campus, New Delhi, Delhi (110 021), India

Ashish Sheera

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology, Jammu (180 009), India

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916 1735013575 Biotica Research Today Solar Photovoltaic Pumping Systems Site Selection Using Remote Sensing and GIS Agriculture 598-600

The solar photovoltaic pumping system utilizes the solar energy to pump water. Efforts are being made to incorporate renewable energy sources in agriculture sector especially for irrigation to provide sustainable energy source which is freely available and ecofriendly with advantage that it can be utilized at off grid and remote locations. One of the most important aspects for achieving such ambitious plans is to identify the promising locations to develop such systems to reap maximum benefits. This is where remote sensing and GIS comes into play these tools can be used for large scale analysis for selection of suitable sites based on factors like local climate, soil, topography, availability of solar radiation, vacant land with open cover free area, groundwater, distance from highways and existing transmission lines etc. Then a number of maps are generated and over laid by using GIS software to find suitable locations for SPV systems based on criteria.

Solar Photovoltaic Pumping Systems, Solar Pumping, Site suitability, Remote Sensing and GIS NIL 2020-07-19 Popular Article Mukesh Kumar Mehla

Mukesh Kumar Mehla

Department of Soil and Water Engineering, College of Technology and Engineering, MPUAT, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

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917 1735013785 Biotica Research Today Hydroponic Maize Fodder Production - Need for Small and Marginal Farmers Agriculture 601-603

Hydroponics means growing of plants without soil. The same technique is followed for growing green fodder without soil. It can be grown either in environmentally controlled houses or inside machines. Owing to green fodder scarcity and reduction in cultivable land for fodder production, the livestock farmers are slowly switching over to hydroponic fodder production from conventional production methods. These techniques will give a helping hand where there is a minimum available source of water for irrigation. These fodder produced are highly nutritious, provides sustainable fodder round the year and conserve water. This system suits small to marginal scale farmers.

Fodder scarcity, Hydroponic, Nutrient, Reducing virtual water NIL 2020-07-20 Popular Article Raghavendran, V. B., Alex Albert, V. and Tamilselvan, N.

Raghavendran, V. B.*

ICAR- KVK, Sirugamani, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (639 115), India

Alex Albert, V.

ICAR- KVK, Sirugamani, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (639 115), India

Tamilselvan, N.

ICAR- KVK, Sirugamani, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (639 115), India

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918 1735014051 Biotica Research Today Pond Lining Agriculture 604-606

Water is an essence of human life and India is blessed with many rivers, lakes and ponds contain plenty of water. They are perennial or seasonal, depends on the monsoon. Global climate change and increase the demands by the various water users, priority to conserve the water in a storage structure during the rainy season and use during the lean period is the need of the hour. Water storing in the pond faces seepage and evaporation losses issue. Reduction of seepage losses at the bottom and sides of the pond can be achieved by laying plastic sheets, one of the promising techniques, researches revealed. 200-micron thick plastic sheet laid in 2:1 stable side slope of pond is the common practice. This method maximizes water storing period and multiple uses of water.

Bentonite clay, Farm Pond, Lining, Plastic sheet NIL 2020-07-21 Popular Article M. Manikandan, G. Thiyagarajan and Balaji Kannan

M. Manikandan

Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kumulur, Tamil Nadu (621 712), India

G. Thiyagarajan*

Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Balaji Kannan

Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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919 1735014392 Biotica Research Today Ivy Gourd - A Nutritious Cucurbitaceous Vegetable as Immunity Enhancer Agriculture 607-610

Cucurbitaceae is one of the important plant family comprises nutritionally and medicinally valued vegetable in human diet. Mostly they are low calorific, dietary fibre rich vegetables and medicinally known for their diuretic, anti diabetic capacity. Cucurbitaceae contains more than 95 genera and 800 species within. Mostly they are annual in nature, but the genus Coccinia is one of the perennial cucurbit vegetable known as ivy gourd. It is an Indian originated vegetable well known for its anti diabetic property.

Immunity enhancer, Ivy gourd, Nutritious, Vegetable NIL 2020-07-21 Popular Article V. Sivakumar and R. Balakumbahan

V. Sivakumar*

Coconut Research Station, TNAU, Aliyarnagar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

R. Balakumbahan

Dept. of Vegetable Science, HC & RI, Periyakulam, Kamatchipuram, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

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920 1735014682 Biotica Research Today Agricultural Drainage Water as an Alternate Source for Irrigation Water Agriculture 611-614

Intensive irrigation practices dramatically enhanced the agricultural productivity. However, these practices have also resulted in enhanced drainage water production and the ground water chemical contamination. It is generally acknowledged that the long term agricultural production in the irrigated areas depends upon the adequate system of drainage outflow and various management strategies are being currently considered for reducing the drainage volume that ultimately requires treatment or disposal. Several ways are found to be effective however; none of these could be used alone for complete disposal of agricultural drainage water. The new concept of SBC (Sequential Biological Concentration) system integrates these concepts into a system that is capable of meeting the objective of drainage water disposal. The system is one of the successive uses of the drainage water for irrigation of progressively higher salt tolerant crops to concentrate the salt and reduce the total volume of water for disposal.

Agricultural drainage water, Irrigation, Salinity, Salt tolerant crops NIL 2020-07-21 Popular Article E. Parameswari, V. Davamani, T. Ilakiya, S. Paul Sebastian and P. Kalaiselvi

E. Parameswari*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V. Davamani

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

T. Ilakiya

 Dept. of Vegetable Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Paul Sebastian

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

P. Kalaiselvi

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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921 1735015250 Biotica Research Today Defensive Potential of Sorghum at Biochemical Levels against Atherigona soccata (Rondani) Agriculture 615-617

Sorghum bicolor L. is fifth most important cereal crop in the world followed by wheat, rice, maize, and barley. Morphological traits comprises the building of a physical barrier are serves as first line of defense in plant which negatively influenced affects the insect growth, development, existence and attack. On the other hand host-plant resistance mechanism is also one of the best approaches to reduce the attack of insects in plants which stimulates variety of antioxidant enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidant, proteinase inhibitions, alpha amylase inhibitors secondary metabolites. These biochemical constituents directly involved in detoxification mechanism of elevated level of ROS and provide protection against insect damage.

Host plant resistance, Rondani, Shoot fly, Sorghum NIL 2020-07-21 Popular Article Archana Kumari and Meenakshi Goyal

Archana Kumari*

Dept. of Biochemistry, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Meenakshi Goyal

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

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922 1735015544 Biotica Research Today Global Status of Mariculture Agriculture 618-621

Fisheries sector is now facing demand-supply gap due to declining marine fish stocks. Countries have realized that intensifying sea farming - ‘mariculture’ will be one of the productive initiatives to fulfill this gap. Latest statistics shows that the contribution of mariculture to global fish production is increasing constantly. Apart from providing comparatively low cost proteinaceous food, mariculture also ensures sustainability of the stocks. Keeping all this in view, this article has been attempted to provide an overall glance of the current global status of mariculture production as per the recent state of world fisheries and aquaculture published by Food and Agriculture Organization.

Aquaculture, Fisheries, Mariculture, Seafood NIL 2020-07-22 Popular Article Shobika U., Lloyd Chrispin C. and Anix Vivek Santhiya A.

Shobika U.

Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Lloyd Chrispin C.*

Department of Fisheries Extension, Economics and Statistics, Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Anix Vivek Santhiya A.

Department of Aquaculture, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

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923 1735015840 Biotica Research Today Phytopharmacological Significance of Salacia chinensis Agriculture 622-624

Salacia chinenesis is one of the versatile, less exploited inhabitants of wild forests predominantly used in Ayurveda for curing variety of ailments, specifically to cure obesity and diabetes. Apart from antidiabetic activity, several species of the genus Salacia are known to possess anti-inflammatory, antilipidemic, antiperoxidative, antimicrobial, antileukemic, astringent and antimalarial activities. Salacia species contains abundant range of phytochemicals (secondary metabolites) like salacinol, katnanol, mangiferin, poly phenolics, tannins and many more. In addition, triterpenes, sesquiterpenes, lignans, xanthones, flavanols, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidins have been reported in S chinensis extracts, which are attributed to other important medicinal properties. The present study is focussed on reviewing the phytopharmaceutical relevance of this medicinal species to create a better understanding on its potential as an anti-diabetic medicine.

Antidiabetic, Antiobesity, Mangiferin, Salacinol NIL 2020-07-24 Popular Article S. Padmapriya, M. Kavitha, V. A. Sathiyamurthy and K. Rajamani

S. Padmapriya*

Controllerate of Examinations, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Kavitha

Controllerate of Examinations, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V. A. Sathiyamurthy

Controllerate of Examinations, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

K. Rajamani

Controllerate of Examinations, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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924 1735016667 Biotica Research Today Effect of Lights and Lighting Systems on Flowers and Ornamental Plants Agriculture 631-634

Lights play a vital role in the development of plant parts and its process called photosynthesis. This light can be provided to the plants with the help of natural source i.e., the direct sun light or by artificial supplementation through various forms of lights sources by chronological development of light bulbs from INC bulbs, MHL, HPS Lamps, CFL, LED lights. This article throws light on the effects of the use of various forms of lights in individuals and in combinations of lights of varying wavelengths and varying duration on the flower crops, ornamental flowers and foliages which is mainly gaining importance in vertical walls and indoor gardening, also in the use of decorative light purposes.

Artificial lighting, Flower crop, Growth, Ornamental NIL 2020-07-25 Popular Article Mithilaa. BA, M. Kavitha, S. Padmapriya and E. Parameswari

Mithilaa. BA

Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Kavitha*

Controllerate of Examinations, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Padmapriya

Controllerate of Examinations, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari

Controllerate of Examinations, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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925 1735017252 Biotica Research Today Essential Oil - A Potential Green Pesticide Agriculture 638-640

Many plants are known to synthesize a large number of aromatic and volatile compounds consisting mainly of secondary metabolites which are known to play an important role in their defence mechanism. These aromatic and volatile fractions are known as Essential oil (EO). At present more than 3000 Essential oils has been identified from different plants species. The use of essential oil is not new to mankind. Traditional medicine system such as Ayurveda contains detail description about its uses against many human ailments such as use of cinnamon, ginger and sandal wood for healing purposes. Apart from this, EO has been reported to be an important component of food and cosmetics throughout the world.

Aromatic, Defence mechanism, Essential oil (EO), Healing purposes NIL 2020-07-26 Popular Article Abhay Kumar Mishra, Digvijay Singh, Pragya Bharti and Kumar Chiranjeeb

Abhay Kumar Mishra*

Department of Plant pathology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Digvijay Singh

Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur (813 210), India

Pragya Bharti

Department of Plant pathology, I.A.S. Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Kumar Chiranjeeb

Department of Soil Science, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

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926 1735017747 Biotica Research Today Performance of TANUVAS Aseel under Backyard Condition in Dharmapuri District Agriculture 645-648

Backyard poultry production in India is practiced since time immemorial which was the primary source of animal protein and supplementary income for the down trodden rural poor. Backyard poultry is the only source of poultry egg and meat for city dwellers before poultry industrialization. Existing local variety of chicken having low production potential the introduction of new varieties to the backyard poultry increases the income of the farmer families which paves way for the sustainable livestock in the rural areas. The body weights and egg production of TANUVAS Aseel chicken are 1.9 kg and 154 numbers at the age of 50th week. Performance of TANUVAS Aseel under backyard condition will give many benefits to farming community.

Backyard, Growth performance, Protein, TANUVAS Aseel NIL 2020-07-27 Popular Article R. Thangadurai, M. A. Venilla and C. Sivakumar

R. Thangadurai*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

M. A. Venilla

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

C. Sivakumar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

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927 1735099454 Biotica Research Today Farmer Participatory Seed Production in Paddy - A Success Story Agriculture 649-653

Seed is the basic input in Agriculture and good quality seed is the primary requisite for obtaining optimum crop stand, healthy crop and productivity. Many farmers are running behind the various government and non-government organizations every season in search of good quality seed. However, in view of large gap between production and supply, some of the farmers are resorting to locally available poor quality seed thus less productivity and income. Hence, adoption of on-farm seed production under the supervision of scientists through farmer participatory approach can improve farmers’ income besides ensuring the availability of good quality seed. This article narrates how ARS, Tornala helped the farmer to produce 74.6 q/ha of quality seed of JGL-18047 variety of paddy and doubled the farmer’s income as compared to that of normal paddy cultivation.

JGL-18047, Participatory seed production, Rice, Seed NIL 2020-07-27 Success story E. Umarani and A. V. Ramanjaneyulu

E. Umarani*

Agricultural Research Station, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Tornala, Telangana (502 114), India

A. V. Ramanjaneyulu

Agricultural Research Station, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Tornala, Telangana (502 114), India

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928 1735100005 Biotica Research Today Cono Weeder - A Best Weed Management Tool in System of Rice Intensification (SRI) Agriculture 656-657

Weed management is one of the traditional operations in crop production. Due to labour costs, time and fully manual weeding is unfavourable. Competition in the early stage of growth and failure to control weeds in the first three weeks after transplanting, reduce the yield by 50 percent in rice. Manual weeding requires huge labor force and accounts for about 25 percent of the total labor requirement which is usually 900 to 1200 man h/ha. Using mechanical weeders in rice cultivation and other row crops have been common practice in now a day. Cono weeder is one of best tools for weeding in SRI Rice cultivation which compare with hand weeding causes a considerable reduction in labour costs and time consuming.

Cono weeder, High productive tillers, High yield, Labour saving NIL 2020-07-28 Popular Article Ayyadurai P. and R. Thiyagarajan

Ayyadurai P.*

Department of Crop Management, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

R. Thiyagarajan

Department of Farm Machinery and Power, Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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929 1735100295 Biotica Research Today Minimum Legal Size: A Tool For Sustainable Fisheries Management Agriculture 658-660

In the fisheries sector,the exploitation of juvenile fish became rampant and started affecting the global fish landing. A huge amount of juvenile fishes are brought to the landing center since many fishing vessels do not use the net with the proper mesh size. Minimum legal size (MLS) sets the smallest size at which a particular species of fish can be validly retained if caught. MLS is an important tool to protect juvenile fish, governor the sizes of fish caught and sustain spawning stocks for future generations.

Exploitation, Recruitment overfishing, Spawning stock, Sustainable NIL 2020-07-28 Popular Article Suman Takar, Udai Ram Gurjar

Suman Takar

Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Udai Ram Gurjar*

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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930 1735100879 Biotica Research Today Green Fodder Production Technologies Agriculture 663-665

Green fodder plays major role in nature feed of animals, thereby providing required nutrients for milk production and health of the dairy animals. Green fodder is actually any type of feed that is made from green crops like legume crops, cereal crops, grass crops and tree based crops. Green fodder contains 60-90% moisture. The mineral and vitamin content of green fodders are highly variable. Legume fodders may have 20% or more crude protein content. Cumbu Napier grass can be chopped into small pieces using local chop cutting machine and make silage which can be stored for years and used as fodder in dry or drought season.

Cereals, Green Fodder, Legumes, Tree fodder NIL 2020-07-29 Popular Article Ayyadurai P. and R. Thangadurai

Ayyadurai P.*

Department of Crop Management, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

R. Thangadurai

Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

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931 1735102199 Biotica Research Today Remediation Measures for Arsenic Pollution of Soil Agriculture 680-683

Arsenic contamination is turning out to be a major problem these days with its increasing area coverage and the number of people affected directly or indirectly. Now, the level of the contaminant has spread over the soil and sediments from groundwater and other natural sources. Arsenic poisoning in groundwater events is familiar to the world, but the consequences of soil contamination are still unrevealed to the community. Long-term use of arsenic contaminated groundwater to irrigate crops, especially paddy (Oryza sativa L.) has resulted in elevated soil arsenic levels. Now the time is right to take into account the soil contamination of Arsenic and to devise cost effective remedial measures to correct this problem. This article deals with some of the remediation technologies included within broad category of physical, chemical and a few biological methods.

Arsenic, Arsenic poisoning, Remediation technologies, Soil Pollution NIL 2020-07-31 Popular Article Abhishek Ranjan, Shubham Singh, Vivek Kumar, Munmun Majhi

Abhishek Ranjan*

Department of Soil Science, SNRM, CPGS-AS (CAU, Imphal), Meghalaya (793 103), India

Shubham Singh

Department of Soil Science, SNRM, CPGS-AS (CAU, Imphal), Meghalaya (793 103), India

Vivek Kumar

Department of Soil Science, RPCAU, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Munmun Majhi

Department of SSAC, UBKV, Cooch Behar, West Bengal (736 165), India

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932 1735102794 Biotica Research Today Media for Soilless Agriculture Agriculture 686-689

Growing media and soil are porous and the properties of both are similar. An appropriate adaptation technique is required when soil related knowledge is transferred to media due to the differences in structure and root zone volume. Plants may be grown with their roots in the nutrient solution or in an inert medium, such as perlite, gravel, mineral wool, or coconut husk. The medium culture method has a solid medium for the roots and is named for the type of medium, e.g., sand culture, gravel culture, or rock wool culture.

Clay, Coir pith, Perlite, Wood saving NIL 2020-07-31 Popular Article Balaji Kannan, G. Thiyagarajan, V. Sivakumar, M. Manikandan and M. Nagarajan

Balaji Kannan

Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

G. Thiyagarajan*

Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V. Sivakumar

Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

M. Manikandan

Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kumulur, Tamil Nadu (621 712), India

M. Nagarajan

Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kumulur, Tamil Nadu (621 712), India

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933 1735103035 Biotica Research Today Entomopathogenic Mushroom (Cordyceps sp.) as Immunity Booster Agriculture 690-692

Cordyceps are a dietary therapeutic mushroom that’s been used for centuries to improve the immune system and boost energy levels. Cordyceps were first used in the mountains of Tibet thousands of years ago as a remedy for fatigue and recovery from illness. The mushroom grows naturally on a caterpillar at elevations of 12,000 feet above sea level in throughout the world. Many benefits to using its extracts including a reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress, the leading causes of most disease. This makes cordyceps, along with chaga mushrooms, a good anti-aging and recovery supplement. Adenosine levels help increase the body’s supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which is a primary source of energy during physical activity and also increase the body’s natural production of nitric oxide optimizing oxygen absorption and improving lung and liver function.

Cordyceps, Entomopathogenic Fungus, Immune Buster, Mushroom NIL 2020-07-31 Popular Article Ramniwas Yadav

Ramniwas Yadav

Division of Plant Pathology, RARI, Durgapura, SKN Agriculture University, Jobner- Jaipur, Rajasthan (303 329), India

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934 1735190084 Biotica Research Today August (2020) CRISPR-CAS9: A Revolutionary Tool Agriculture 696-698

As we all know that DNA is responsible for the physical traits of the living organisms, we can change their characteristics by editing their DNA. This can be possible by addition or removal of specific genetic materials from the DNA. The technology used for this process is called genome editing and CRISPR-CAS is the most popular genome editing tool now-a-days. By CRISPR-CAS we can target a specific sequence of a DNA and add or remove genetic materials from that specific part according to our need. CRISPR-CAS has a guide RNA which is homologous to the DNA in which we want to change the genetic sequence, and a protein body which has two scissors to cut the targeted DNA strand. By the help of CRISPR-CAS crop improvement can be possible. It is also helpful for the treatment of many diseases.

CRISPR-CAS, DNA, Genome editing, RNA NIL 2020-08-03 Popular Article Siba Prasad Kar, Ashutosh Das, Ashirbad Swain

Siba Prasad Kar*

Dept. of Biotechnology, Centurion University of Technology & Management, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 050), India

Ashutosh Das

Dept. of Biotechnology, Centurion University of Technology & Management, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 050), India

Ashirbad Swain

Dept. of Biotechnology, Centurion University of Technology & Management, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 050), India

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935 1735190310 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Umbilical Cord Blood Banking: The Birth of New Healthcare Technique Agriculture 699-701

Stem cells are immature cells which have the capacity to turn out to be different styles of cells that shape organs and tissues. They are powerful, precise cells which are the constructing blocks of the body. Stem cell based treatments are being applied more with promising outcomes in each malignant and non-malignant disorder. Three reasserts of cells had been used for haematopoietic reconstitution – bone marrow, peripheral blood, and umbilical twine blood (UCB). It is lately diagnosed that umbilical cord blood stem cells, seems to be as powerful as bone marrow while an HLA-matched grownup adult donor isn't always available.

Health care, Stem cell, UBC, Umbilical cord NIL 2020-08-04 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Kailash Chandra Samal and Chetan Kumar Panda

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Chetan Kumar Panda

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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936 1735190525 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Role and Application of Drones for Smart Agriculture Agriculture 702-703

Evolutions of technologies for agriculture are now essential to tackle the food deficient crisis all over the world. More than 60% people are directly connected in agriculture sector in India. Drones are used now a day in farming for field and soil sample analysis, crop monitoring and spraying, irrigation, weed identification and health assessments etc. by using sensors (Multi spectral, thermal, hyper spectral and LIDAR) attached in it along with use of GPS (Global Positioning System). Drone usage in agriculture now in initial phase and can be a potential future for smart agriculture.

Agriculture, Drones, GPS, Sensors NIL 2020-08-04 Popular Article Kumar Chiranjeeb, Ranjita Beuria

Kumar Chiranjeeb*

Department of Soil Science, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Ranjita Beuria

Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management, SOA (Deemed to be University), Dharam Vihar, Jagamara, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 030), India

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937 1735190805 Biotica Research Today August (2020) E-Waste Recycling Process and Issues Agriculture 704-705

Electronic waste (E-waste) is that the fastest growing waste stream, which include discarded electrical and electronic devices. While accounting for an E-waste, computer equipment accounting for almost 70 percent of it, followed by communication system (12 percent), electrical equipment (8 percent) and medical equipment (7 percent). E-waste materials signify huge health and environmental hazards. Hence, recycling of E waste has become a significant part. Several steps are followed to recycle the products either manually or automatically. Numerous private sectors involved in recycling E- Waste. However, proper process should be followed to avoid health hazards during handling.

E-waste, Electronic waste, Environmental hazards, Recycling NIL 2020-08-04 Popular Article Thangamani, S., G. Thiyagarajan, E. Sujitha, A. Selvaperumal

Thangamani, S.

Dept. of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, AEC & RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

G. Thiyagarajan*

Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Sujitha

Institute of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kumulur, Tamil Nadu (621 712), India

A. Selvaperumal

Dept. of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, AEC & RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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938 1735191121 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Wireless Based Irrigation Automation Using Pressure Controller Agriculture 706-708

Agriculture is a source of livelihood of majority Indians and great impact on the economics of the country. In dry areas or in case of inadequate rainfall, irrigation becomes difficult. A low cost alternative solution for efficient water management currently in use is drip irrigation system that consists of a pressure controller to turn on and off the control valve, which in-turn helps the farmers by managing the water supply to the crop fields and further maintains the moisture level of soil. When the soil is dry condition the soil moisture sensor measure the resistance and send the signal to relay to actuate the solenoid valve. If solenoid valve open the pump is ON then the flow can happen by pressure controller, whereas the soil is wet condition, the solenoid valve closes. Based on this technique, automated the irrigation system without wire and wireless technology using pressure controller.

Automation, Drip irrigation, Pressure controller, Soil moisture sensor NIL 2020-08-04 Popular Article A. Selvaperumal, G. Thiyagarajan, S. Thangamani and E. Sujitha

A. Selvaperumal

Dept. of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, AEC & RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

G. Thiyagarajan*

Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Thangamani

Dept. of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, AEC & RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Sujitha

Institute of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kumulur, Tamil Nadu (621 712), India

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939 1735191417 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Grafting Techniques for Sustainable Productivity in Vegetable Crops Agriculture 709-712

The practice of grafting used in vegetable production is similar to fruit tree grafting in that it creates a new plant by physically combining two plants with different genetic background, with one providing the shoots (scion) and the other donating the roots (rootstock). At present, vegetable grafting is mainly applied to solanaceous and cucurbitaceous crops, primarily tomato, eggplant, pepper, watermelon, cucumber, and melon. Grafting is an effective IPM tool for managing soil borne diseases.

Crops, Grafting techniques, Productivity, Vegetables NIL 2020-08-04 Popular Article V. Sivakumar, R. Balakumbahan, M. Anand, M. Velmurugan and S. Praneetha

V. Sivakumar*

Dept. of Horticulture, Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

R. Balakumbahan

Dept. of Horticulture, HC & RI, Periyakulam, Theni, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

M. Anand

Dept. of Horticulture, Horticulture Research Station, Yercaud, Salem, Tamil Nadu (636 601), India

M. Velmurugan

Dept. of Horticulture, HC & RI, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Praneetha

Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

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940 1735191735 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Plant Glandular Trichomes: The Natural Pesticide Factories Agriculture 713-716

Indiscriminate use of synthetic pesticides has many bad implications on environment and human health. It also leads to development of pest resistance, so glandular trichomes can be used as an important first line of defense against herbivorous insects and pathogens. Glandular trichomes have the capacity to produce, store and secrete large amounts of different classes of secondary metabolites like terpenes, phenylpropenes, flavonoids, methyl ketones, acyl sugars and defensive proteins which are having the potency to act as natural pesticides. It is evident that via breeding or genetic engineering by using, trichome-specific promoters will develop a stronger grip on how to obtain the desired levels of biocides in a tissue-specific manner.

Flavonoids, Glandular, Terpene, Trichome NIL 2020-08-05 Popular Article Kiranamaya Pradhan and Ramesh M. Maradi

Kiranamaya Pradhan*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, UAS, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

Ramesh M. Maradi

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, UAS, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

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941 1735191909 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Success Stories on Intensive Salem Black Goat Rearing Agriculture 717-719

Goat is one of the ancient domesticated animals in India and considered as poor man’s cow. Goat farming business is not a new idea in India. And the climate and geographical conditions of Tamil Nadu is very suitable for raising goats commercially. The major problems in goat rearing are poor weight gain, infertility, fodder scarcity and lack of twin birth. Hence to address the problem package of practices of has been demonstrated in the farmers’ field. The farmers are not adopting the package of practice for goat rearing and also not aware of varieties of goat for breeding and meat purpose.

Goat, Intensive, Rearing, Salem black NIL 2020-08-06 Success story R. Thangadurai, M. A. Vennila and C. Sivakumar

R. Thangadurai*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

M. A. Vennila

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

C. Sivakumar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

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942 1735192111 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Manihot esculenta: An Asset for a Better Tomorrow Agriculture 720-721

Cassava is a tuberous root belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae in the tropics. A staple food crop that is heat and drought resistant, rich in carbohydrates also contains vitamin C, beta-carotene, and lysine in its various parts. It is a source of renewable energy which includes biotechnological applications like gene cloning, generic engineering for pest control, cryopreservation etc. It is used in multiple industries and also provides varieties of products like bread, sauce, flour etc. It is grown mostly in South America and African countries. The points stated below gives a brief description about the most promising plant crop cassava.

Cassava, Crop, Cyanogenic, Food NIL 2020-08-06 Popular Article Rijhum Mahapatra, Rituparna Parida, Debanjana Saha

Rijhum Mahapatra*

Dept. of Biotechnology Engineering, Centurion University of Technology & Management, Ramachandrapur, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752050), India

Rituparna Parida

Dept. of Biotechnology Engineering, Centurion University of Technology & Management, Ramachandrapur, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752050), India

Debanjana Saha

Dept.of Biotechnology, Centurion University of Technology & Management, Ramachandrapur, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752050), India

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943 1735192619 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Botanical Pesticides: An Insecticide from Plant Derivatives Agriculture 727-730

Synthetic insecticide is a promising tool for controlling insect pests globally but have negative impacts such as residual toxicity, insect resistance development, effects on non-target organisms and other adverse environmental impacts. For sound management of pests, there is an increasing interest in biotic control using plant products and its derivatives, which is eco-friendly with highly reduction in those impacts. Botanical insecticides such as neem, nicotine, pyrethrum, rotenone etc, are used universally having both biochemical and biophysical properties against insect pests. Pyrethrum and Neem including essential oil are well established commercially. Azadirachtin, bioactive compound of Neem shows insecticidal properties like antifeedant, repellent, ovipositional deterrent, fecundity reduction and longevity. Quick knockdown effect of Pyrethrum and various nerve poison compounds like nicotine in tobacco are very effective in pest management. Using powdered and extract products from plants for small scale farmer is feasible due to its simple application process, less residual and toxicity.

Antifeedant, Botanical pesticides, Essential oil, Neem NIL 2020-08-06 Popular Article Priyanka Nayak and Dibyarani

Priyanka Nayak*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Dibyarani

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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944 1735193224 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Promotion of Organic Farming: Roles of Key Players Agriculture 731-734

Organic farming relies mostly on on-farm resources and excludes use of off-farm resources. Its’ primary goal is to optimize the health and productivity of interdependent communities of soil, plants, animals and people. It reduces exposure to pesticides and other synthetic chemicals. It helps in maintaining healthy soil, combating erosion, fighting the effects of global warming and climate change. However, there is alarge gap between what to do and what is required. Hence, there is a need to map the responsibilities of various stake holders involved in practising and (or) promoting organic farming.

Organic farming, Research needs, Soil degradation, Stake holders NIL 2020-08-07 Popular Article A. V. Ramanjaneyulu, N. Sainath and M. Srinivas

A. V. Ramanjaneyulu*

Agricultural Research Station (Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

N. Sainath

Agricultural Research Station (Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

M. Srinivas

Regional Agricultural Research Station (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University), Maruteru, West Godavari, Andhra Pradesh (534 122), India

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945 1735193531 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Water: Heart of Agriculture Agriculture 735-738

Water is a crucial commodity for agricultural production that contributes an efficacious role in food security. Irrigated agriculture represents 20% of total cultivated land and bestows 40% of the total food produced worldwide, besides, on average; it is at least twice as productive per unit of land as rainfed agriculture, thereby allowing for more production intensification and crop diversification. Worldwide, the application of water and its controlled utilization has been an essential factor in raising crop productivity and ensuring predictability in outputs. Water is fundamental to bring forth the potentiality of the land and to enable improved varieties of both plants and animals to make full use of other yield enhancing factors. By raising productivity, sustainable water management especially when combined with adequate soil husbandry helps to ensure better production both for direct consumption and for commercial disposal, thereby enhancing the generation of necessary economic surpluses for uplifting rural economies.

Agriculture, Crop, Production, Water NIL 2020-08-08 Popular Article Mousumi Malo

Mousumi Malo

Assistant Director of Agriculture, Model Farm, Jayrambati, Bankura, West Bengal (722 161), India

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946 1735193741 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Water Table Management System Agriculture 739-741

Water logging adversely affected agricultural lands creating doubts about the sustainability of irrigated agriculture. Many irrigation project command areas of Tamil Nadu lack adequate supply of water to agriculture in three to four months every year due to inadequate water resources. At the same time water logging problems due to excess water release from reservoirs during heavy rainfall periods from inter-state rivers is the common problem in some low lying areas. Hence a dual system to tackle water logging in monsoon season and scarcity during summer is the need of the hour. Water table management system (i.e. Controlled Drainage cum Sub irrigation system) is the next level of improving water management in irrigated agriculture. The water table management system was designed to work effectively both in monsoon season as controlled drainage system and as sub irrigation system during summer.

Controlled drainage, Sub irrigation, Water logging, Water table NIL 2020-08-08 Popular Article A. Selvaperumal, G. Thiyagarajan, S. Thangamani and E. Sujitha

A. Selvaperumal

Dept. of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, AEC&RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

G. Thiyagarajan*

Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Thangamani

Dept. of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, AEC&RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Sujitha

Institute of Agriculture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kumulur, Tamil Nadu (621 712), India

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947 1735194008 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Need for Promoting Vitamin C Rich Foods for Combating Detrimental Effects of COVID-19 Agriculture 742-744

As we know a strong immune system is something that acts as a barrier against any furious disease affecting human body. In the start of the year 2020, COVID 19 pandemic has created havoc in life and lifestyles of we humans mostly. As per our Ayurveda and scientific researches nutrition play a key role in building our immunity system. Among these essential nutrients there are few vitamins which add on to boost the defense system of our body. Vitamin C is none other than these essential vitamins whose main function is to boost the immune system via its various functions in human body. This article provides a general discussion on role of vitamin C dietary sources in boosting immunity and acting against COVID-19 corona virus infection.

Ascorbic acid, COVID-19, Dietary source, Immunity NIL 2020-08-08 Popular Article Rajeswari Das and Mukesh Kumar

Rajeswari Das*

Dept. of Soil Science, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Mukesh Kumar

Dept. of Soil Science, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

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948 1735194211 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Regenerative Agriculture: Future of Sustainable Food Production Agriculture 745-748

The loss of the world’s fertile soil and biodiversity, along with the loss of indigenous seeds and knowledge, pose a mortal threat to our future survival. According to soil scientists, if current rates of soil destruction (i.e. decarbonization, erosion, desertification, chemical pollution) occurs continuously, then we will not only suffer serious damage to public health due to a qualitatively degraded food supply characterized by diminished nutrition but also we will literally no longer have enough arable topsoil to feed ourselves within 50 years. Without protecting and regenerating the soil, it will be impossible to feed the world. Thus, adoption of regenerative agriculture should be done to regenerate and revitalize the soil and the environment. Regenerative agriculture leads to healthy soil, capable of producing high quality, nutrient dense food while simultaneously improving, rather than degrading land, and ultimately leading to productive farms and healthy communities and economies.

Carbon sequestration, Regenerative agriculture, Soil health, Sustainability NIL 2020-08-08 Popular Article Gayatri Sahu, Shreya Das

Gayatri Sahu*

Dept. of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 030), India

Shreya Das

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry & Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

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949 1735194450 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Amazing Benefits of Gaultheria fragrantissima (Wintergreen) on Human Health Agriculture 749-751

Gaultheria fragrantissima or Wintergreen plant which has been long used in India for Ayurvedic medicines, harbour essential oils with various uses and cures. It’s cultivation in the diverse flora of Indian biotic sphere across the geographical variation, extraction or the artificial manufacturing, it’s dosage and description, availability and conclusion gets a light of discussion hereby.

Gaultheria fragrantissima, Himalaya, Methyl salicylate, Wintergreen oil NIL 2020-08-13 Popular Article Kaushik Kumar, Pranay P Pandey and Vivekanand

Kaushik Kumar

Dept. of Agriculture, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 006), India

Pranay P Pandey*

Institute of Horticulture Technology, NCR Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh (201 310), India

Vivekanand

Institute of Horticulture Technology, NCR Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh (201 310), India

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950 1735194667 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Management of Bovine Sub Clinical Mastitis with TANUVAS MASTI GUARD Agriculture 752-754

Mastitis has been recognized as a major disease affecting the dairy industry, especially in its subclinical form. Subclinical mastitis cause economic losses by decreasing milk production, cost of therapy and unused milk during the withdrawal period. Clinical mastitis can be detected by farmer but subclinical mastitis can only be detected by the measurement of inflammatory components and pathogens in the milk. Since somatic cell count (SCC) in milk has been shown to be an excellent marker for subclinical mastitis it can be used to detect the subclinical mastitis. The prevention of bovine mastitis is the most important component of a mastitis control programme. TANUVAS MASTI Guard will be used as most effective management strategy for preventing new intra mammary infection (IMI). The ingredients present in the spraying solution kill the bacteria present on the teat and controls occurrence of subclinical mastitis.

Bovine, Milk, Subclinical mastitis, TANUVAS MASTI Guard NIL 2020-08-15 Popular Article R. Thangadurai, S. Rengaraj and C. Sivakumar

R. Thangadurai*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

S. Rengaraj

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

C. Sivakumar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

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951 1735194896 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Garlic (Lahsun) – An Immunity Booster against SARS-CoV-2 Agriculture 755-757

In early 2020, many scientists are hastening to discover novel drugs and vaccines against the Corona virus, and treatments for Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19), because, the disease which was named as COVID-19, a life threatening viral disease which affected first in China and quickly spread throughout the world. Garlic products are used as sources of medicine in many ways in human beings in their daily life. As a result, researchers from various disciplines are now directing their efforts towards discovering the medicinal values of garlic on human health. The main interest of researchers in the medicinal values of garlic is its broad-spectrum therapeutic effect with minimal toxicity. Garlic contains a higher concentration of sulfur compounds which are answerable for its medicinal effects. Garlic extract has antimicrobial activity against many genera of bacteria, fungi and viruses. Garlic has been scientifically observed to have its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-stress properties, anti-cancer, cardiovascular disease, anti-diabetic property, immunity booster and antimicrobial effects etc.

Allium sativum, Garlic, Immunity, SARS-CoV-2 NIL 2020-08-16 Popular Article Debjyoti Chakraborty and Anindita Majumder

Debjyoti Chakraborty*

Dept. of Entomology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

Anindita Majumder

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu (608 002), India

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952 1735530718 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Groundnut Weeder cum Earthing-up Tool for Drudgery Reduction Agriculture 761-762

Groundnut is one of the oil seed crop. It is grown as both a rain-fed and irrigation crop. The main problems faced by the farmers are its weeding and earthing-up. Groundnut weeder cum earthing-up tool was developed to reduce the drudgery of farm women labour and increase the income of the farmer. The tool was fabricated with MS steel and was tested for its performance and economic evaluation. The tool was tested for its smoothness of operation and damage of the crop.

Drudgery, Groundnut Earthing-up, Groundnut Weeder, Mechanized tool NIL 2020-08-17 Popular Article Kamaraj A., V. Sivakumar, E. Ramya, P. Pavithra

Kamaraj A.*

Dept. of Crop Management, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Eachangkottai, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu (614 902), India

V. Sivakumar

Dept. of Horticulture, Coconut Research Station, TNAU, Aliyarnagar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

E. Ramya

Dept. of Crop Management, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Eachangkottai, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu (614 902), India

P. Pavithra

Dept. of Crop Management, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Eachangkottai, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu (614 902), India

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953 1735530992 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Drought Tolerant Trees for Ornamental Gardening Agriculture 763-767

Tree is a woody perennial plant with an elongated stem, or trunk, supporting branches and leaves in most species. Trees play a significant role in reducing erosion and moderating the climate. They remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store large quantities of carbon in their tissues. Trees and forests provide a habitat for many species of animals and plants. Trees provide shade and shelter, timber for construction, fuel for cooking and heating and fruit for food as well as having many other uses. Trees also provide aesthetic value to reduce the mental stress in human being. Trees create a visual impact in landscape features and give a sense of maturity and permanence to park and garden. They are grown for the beauty of their forms, their foliage, flowers, fruit and bark and their sitting is of major importance in creating a landscape.

Drought tolerant trees, Garden, Ornamental, Trees NIL 2020-08-17 Popular Article K. Kayalvizhi and A. Sankari

K. Kayalvizhi*

Dept. of Horticulture, Institute of Agriculture, TNAU, Kumulur, Tamil Nadu (621 712), India

A. Sankari

Dept. of Vegetable Science, HC & RI, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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954 1735531217 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Bio Intensive Management of Invasive Rugose Spiralling Whitefly in Coconut Agriculture 768-771

The Rugose Spiralling Whitefly (RSWF) (Aleurodicus rugioperculatus) was noticed in a severe form in coconut palms in Pollachi, Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu, India during August- September, 2016. This pest usually does not kill the plant, but it may interfere with the normal growth of the palm. The infestation of RSWF was high in dwarf and hybrids and very low in tall varieties. The adult longevity was 20.5 days. Integrated Pest Management strategies play key role in managing this pest. The Aphilinid parasitoid, E. guadeloupae plays a major role in controlling RSWF apart from several other predators.

Bio Intensive Management, Coconut, E. guadeloupae, Rugose Spiralling Whitefly NIL 2020-08-17 Popular Article M. Alagar, V. Sivakumar, S. Chinnaduari, P. A. Saravanan, T. Srinivasan and S. Praneetha

M. Alagar*

Dept. of Horticulture, Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

V. Sivakumar

Dept. of Horticulture, Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

S. Chinnaduari

Dept. of Horticulture, Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

P. A. Saravanan

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

T. Srinivasan

Dept. of Millets, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Praneetha

Dept. of Horticulture, Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

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955 1735531550 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Potential of Bio-drainage for Soil Salinity and Water-Logging Management Agriculture 772-774

Bio-drainage technology is used for reclamation of salt affected water-logged areas. It involves growing of vegetation specially trees with high transpiration rate to control salinization and water logging in the area. It is resulting in multiple benefits including improved yield, nutrient use efficiency, cropping intensity and making land more arable to grow different crops, which were otherwise unfeasible on the water-logged soil. Eucalyptus, Acacia, Casuarina, Dalbergia, Populus, Syzigium, Leucaena, Prosopis, etc. are some popular options for bio-drainage. The consumption of water during the growing season depends on age, depth of groundwater level, species, spacing, and other conditions. The water use capacity of trees and other crops decreases with increase in water salinity. For example, in Eucalypt species when water salinity increases to about 8 dS/m transpiring capabilities are reduced to about one-half of potential. Therefore, salt tolerant tress species are considered for bio drainage. Careful planning and implementation of biodrainage system can be an effective alternative to traditional engineering drainage measures.

Bio-drainage, Drainage, Soil salinity, Water-logging NIL 2020-08-18 Popular Article Mukesh Kumar Mehla and Khyati Singh

Mukesh Kumar Mehla*

Dept. of Soil and Water Engineering, College of Technology and Engineering, MPUAT, Udaipur, Rajasthan (313 001), India

Khyati Singh

Dept. of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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956 1735531763 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Terminator Technology: Comprehensive Understanding of Seed Suicidal Technology Agriculture 775-777

In India, Plant breeding has been major concern of public sector institutes rather than profit oriented private seed companies for more than century. This was for protection of farming community and free flow of planting material among resource poor small and marginal farmers. Terminator technology provides legal right to the developers or originators of transgenic plants or animals to protect their material or breed from using by someone in an unauthorised way. The terminator technology prohibits the use of farm produced seed in the subsequent generation by the grower. Thus, farmers have to purchase fresh seeds at each season from the market. This technology not only restricts the use of seeds from the previous season but also ascertain monopoly in the seed industry.

Hybrid seed production, Seed Suicidal Technology, Terminator technology, Verminator technology NIL 2020-08-18 Popular Article Vijay Kamal Meena, Subhash Chand, Indu, Rajesh Kumar Singhal, Bharath Kumar Alam

Vijay Kamal Meena

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Subhash Chand*

ICAR-Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh (284 003), India

Indu

ICAR-Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh (284 003), India

Rajesh Kumar Singhal

ICAR-Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh (284 003), India

Bharath Kumar Alam

ICAR-National Research Centre for Orchid, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

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957 1735532107 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Karrikins - The Regenerator of Life Agriculture 778-779

Recently in 2020, intensive and unprecedented Australian forest fire was threatened humanity and create situation of emergency in the country. No one expected, the life smiles again there, but nature bounce back immediately with no clues. Science hidden in nature is mysterious, and every claim by scientist that the community knows everything - that is wrong. Can we imagine the life become viable in the soil during consecutive phases of massive bushfire? Nature opens its mystery ball and something comes out from it that starts life again-Karrikins. These are usually abundant in smoke and present in soil bound form and play important role in seed germination, osmotic adjustments, stomatal conductance, drought tolerance, primary and secondary metabolisms, chlorophyll concentration, pigmentation components, cuticle maintenance, repression of lateral roots, maintaining root architecture and promotes root – yield relationships in many species.

Forest fire, Karrikins, Seed germination, Species NIL 2020-08-18 Popular Article Antul Kumar, Anuj Choudhary and Harmanjot Kaur

Antul Kumar*

Dept. of Botany, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Anuj Choudhary

Dept. of Botany, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

Harmanjot Kaur

Dept. of Botany, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab (141 004), India

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958 1735532372 Biotica Research Today August (2020) A Blueprint to Boost Indian Agriculture in the Era of Covid-19 Pandemic Agriculture 780-782

India, the second-most populous country in the world is under tremendous pressure. As the corona pandemic was leaving deep scars around the globe, India was able to foresee the depth of the socio-economic hit that could be caused shortly by the pandemic. Along with this existing backdrop of India, the sudden cease of economic activities nationwide will help in rising food insecurity and narrow down farmers’ welfare. During these challenging times, the questions, how does Indian Agriculture respond to the crisis and how do government measures affect 140 million farm households across the country, are assessed the challenges that Covid-19 has posed to the farm sector and suggest mitigation measures to ensure a sustainable food system during this crisis and in the post-crisis era of the Covid-19 outbreak.

Covid-19, Farmers’ welfare, Food security, Indian agriculture NIL 2020-08-18 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Kailash Chandra Samal and Dibakar Behera

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Dibakar Behera

Dept. of Education, Mahima Mahavidyalaya, Joranda, Odisha (759 014), India

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959 1735532620 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Soil Resilience: To Mitigate Degraded Soils Agriculture 783-786

Soil degradative processes, mechanisms that set in motion the degradative trends, include physical, chemical and biological processes. For sustainable use of soil and its protection against degradation soil quality assessment- fitness for use, and its resilience means ability to recover and identification of diagnostic recovery modules are the only options available to address this critical issue. Systematic evaluation through experimentation is needed for establishing quantitative criteria of (i) soil quality in relation to specific functions; (ii) soil degradation in relation to critical limits of key soil properties and processes; and (iii) soil resilience in relation to the ease of restoration through judicious management and discriminate use of essential input. Quantitative assessment of soil degradation can be obtained by evaluating its impact on productivity for different land uses and management systems. There is a need to develop and standardize techniques for measuring soil resilience.

Soil degradation, Soil resilience, Soil restoration, Soil quality NIL 2020-08-18 Popular Article K. Sivasabari and R. Ajaykumar

K. Sivasabari*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, J.K.K Munirajah College of Agricultural Science, T.N.palayam, Erode, Tamil Nadu (638 506), India

R. Ajaykumar

Dept. of Agronomy, Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Pollachi, Tamil Nadu (642 103), India

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960 1735532828 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Entomopathogenic Virus against Crop Pests Agriculture 787-788

Baculoviruses are occluded DNA viruses that are lethal pathogens to larval stages of several lepidopterans, mosquitoes, sawflies with the peculiar nature that they are host specific. The entry of this virus into an insect is per os and both virus types enter midgut cells (primary site of infection) by membrane fusion and the virions are liberated by the action of alkaline digestive juice and finally lead to a systemic infection of the hemocoel which ultimately leads to the death of the insect. As baculoviruses are host specific the much preferred in integrated pest management.

Baculovirus, Hemocoel, Pathogen, Virion NIL 2020-08-18 Popular Article S. Chinnadurai, K. Elakkiya and M. M. Mawtham

S. Chinnadurai*

Coconut Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

K. Elakkiya

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. M. Mawtham

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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961 1735533086 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Role of Reactive Oxygen Species in Plant Development and Its Detection Assays Agriculture 789-791

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are chemically active compound consist of singlet oxygen and alpha-oxygen. Examples comprise of radicals (superoxide, hydroxyl radical, nitric oxide) and non-radical species (peroxides, peroxy nitrate). In almost all cells ROS are the by-products of different metabolic pathways. They are well-identified as a secondary messenger and pathological mediators. However, the recent study has exposed their importance in several life cycle processes of the plant such as seed development and germination, through to root, shoot and flower development. Here, we provide an overview of ROS production and signaling in the context of plant growth and development.

Dichloro fluorescein, Genetically encoded probes, Histo-chemical methods, Reactive Oxygen Species NIL 2020-08-19 Popular Article Laxmipreeya Behera, Siddhartha Shankar Sharma and Kailash Ch. Samal

Laxmipreeya Behera*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Surya Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Siddhartha Shankar Sharma

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, UBKV, Cooch Behar, West Bengal (736 165), India

Kailash Ch. Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Surya Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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962 1735533374 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Green Bioremediation Technology Agriculture 792-793

Phytoremediation is the process of bioremediation by the help of plants that alleviate the environmental issues without the necessity to dig the contaminant substance and discard of it in the surroundings. Heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, nickel, iron, aluminum, copper, mercury, lead, beryllium remain in soil and are unsafe to animals even in minor quantity. Therefore, plants are used to purify the soil. Each and every heavy metal has distinct effects on public health and also causes demise to human life. Through natural and human interruption (anthropogenic) causes, heavy metals come into the environment. It has been reported that there are several vegetation commonly used for heavy metal accumulation from environment. Some of the vegetation used in phytoremediation are alfalfa, sunflower, hybrid poplar trees, arrowroot, Indian mustard, yellow or white water lilies, chickpea, cucumber, lantana, canola etc.

Bioremediation, Heavy metals, Plants, Technology NIL 2020-08-19 Popular Article Laboni Bera, Samparna Pradhan and Debanjana Saha

Laboni Bera*

Dept. of Biotechnology, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 050), India

Samparna Pradhan 

Dept. of Biotechnology, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 050), India

Debanjana Saha

Dept. of Biotechnology, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752 050), India

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963 1735533719 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Microorganisms in Bioremediation Agriculture 794-796

Bioremediation is a natural instrument of reusing squanders in to another structure that can be utilized and reused by different life forms. Microorganisms are basic for a key elective answer for conquer difficulties. Microorganisms are making due in all spots on the biosphere in view of their metabolic movement is astounding; at that point appear in all over scope of ecological conditions. The nourishing limit of microorganisms is totally shifted, so it is utilized as bioremediation of ecological toxins. Bioremediation is profoundly associated with corruption, destruction, immobilization, or detoxification various concoction squanders and physical perilous materials from the encompassing through the comprehensive and activity of microorganisms. That is helped out in enzymatically through processing, so it have commitment job to take care of numerous ecological issues.

Bioremediation, Biosphere, Detoxification, Immobilization NIL 2020-08-21 Popular Article Monika Karnawat, S. K. Trivedi, Deepak Nagar and Rohitashv Nagar

Monika Karnawat*

Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

S. K. Trivedi

Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

Deepak Nagar

Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

Rohitashv Nagar

Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

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964 1735533969 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Mobile Apps: Role in Indian Agriculture Agriculture 797-799

Most of the people in India are dependent on agriculture. Agriculture contributes almost around 17% of India’s GDP. There are so many factors that affect the agriculture development; however the most important bottlenecks are non-availability of instant information and drudgery involved in farming. To resolve these issues, agriculture should be made more alluring and done smartly. In the current article, we are emphasizing about how the mobile application can be helpful agriculture development faster and hustle free. There are varieties of mobile applications, utilized over the globe for different segments, including farming, but usages are still limited. We have elaborated various agricultural mobile applications which potentially can be used in farming and allied activities as indicated by their source and usage. Presently, in India, there are enormous opportunities for utilizing the smart phones as a part of agricultural improvement.

Indian Farming, Information, Mobile Apps, Technology NIL 2020-08-21 Popular Article Manjeet Kaur, O. P. Sharma, Geeta Mohan

Manjeet Kaur*

Dept. of Agriculture, Jagannath University, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 022), India

O. P. Sharma

Dept. of Agriculture, Jagannath University, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 022), India

Geeta Mohan

Dept. of Agriculture, Jagannath University, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 022), India

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965 1735534200 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Effect of Coloured Shade Nets on Growth and Quality of Horticultural Crops Agriculture 800-801

Shade nets provide a specific microenvironment to the crops at various stages. For maintaining quantitative and qualitative characteristics of fruits, vegetables, flowers and foliage plants, it is important to manipulate the quantity, quality, duration and direction of light which is coming towards the crop. In fruit crops, coloured netting produced a positive influence on yield and grafting. In Ornamental plants, morphological parameters are much affected by the differential effects of coloured shade nets whereas in vegetable crops, leaf characteristics are variably influenced by red and green coloured shade nets. Rather than green and black shade nets, other colours such as red, white, blue, etc. were gaining importance in the present market. The coloured shade net approach was evaluated during the past decade in numerous ornamentals, fruit crops and vegetables which improved the growth and quality of the crops specifically.

Coloured shade nets, Foliage plants, Fruits, Vegetables NIL 2020-08-21 Popular Article N. Naveena and S. P. Thamaraiselvi

N. Naveena*

Dept. of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. P. Thamaraiselvi

Dept. of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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966 1735534530 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Desert Locust and Climate Change: A Risk for Agriculture Agriculture 802-804

Locusts are migratory, trans-boundary pests. Wet conditions can cause further worse locust outbreaks worst case scenario, they can destroy the livelihoods of one-tenth of the world’s population, according to the FAO. As per the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), these locust attacks are going to intensify with rains. The United Nations has warned that this year, India’s farmers are at a “serious risk” from locusts swarms. As greenhouse gases continue to warm up the ocean and the atmosphere, extreme events caused by the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) are predicted to be increasingly common place.

FAO, IOD, Locust, Serious risk NIL 2020-08-23 Popular Article Hemadri Bag and Lopamudra Bhoi

Hemadri Bag*

Dept. of Agrometeorology, School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765 022), India

Lopamudra Bhoi

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765 022), India

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967 1735534741 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Integrated Disease Management Strategy for Basal Stem Rot in Coconut Agriculture 805-807

Basal stem rot incited by Ganoderma lucidum is one of the important diseases of coconut causing severe yield loss. The disease is found to occur in southern parts of India encompassing coconut growing states viz., Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The symptoms are manifested in the form of yellowing, withering and drooping of the outer fronds and oozing out reddish brown liquid from the base of the trunk. If the infected trees are left uncared, it become major threat to coconut, resulted in death of the palm. Hence, it is highly imperative to adopt suitable management strategy at the early stage itself. The disease can be effectively contained by integrating cultural, biological and chemical methods.

Basal stem rot, Coconut, Ganoderma lucidum, Integrated Disease Management NIL 2020-08-23 Popular Article E. Rajeswari, V. Sivakumar and H. P. Maheswarappa

E. Rajeswari*

Dept. of Horticulture, Coconut Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

V. Sivakumar

Dept. of Horticulture, Coconut Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

H. P. Maheswarappa

Dept. of Project Coordinator Cell, AICRP on Palms, ICAR-Central Plantation Crop Institute, Kasaragod, Kerala, (671 124), India

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968 1735535218 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Cultural Entomology- An Approach towards Entomo-Fauna Conservation Agriculture 812-814

Biodiversity loss is the major havoc for humanity today and entomo-fauna being the most diverse vulnerable group. Every year some percentage of insect species is introduced in the IUCN Red List featuring endangered and extinct species. Conservation of this diverse group is possible with the approach of Cultural Entomology involving the Human-insect interactions and utilization of insects by human, which has created a special link between insects and humans. Human utilizes insects as nutritious food, raw materials for medicine, portrayal in literature for entertainment and amusement. The tradition of deploying insects for human purposes is perpetuating, and the wild species are protected so far by local or regional tribes of countries. Tribal customs and traditions should be more emphasized and advertised through protecting them with Intellectual Property Rights. Creating awareness about these beneficial natures of insects can perform a significant role in the endangered and rare listed Entomo-fauna conservation.

Biodiversity, Cultural Entomology, Entomo-fauna Conservation, Human-insect Interactions NIL 2020-08-25 Popular Article N. Aparna and Sajiya Quadri

N. Aparna*

Dept. of Entomology, Choudhury Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Sajiya Quadri

Dept. of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh (202 002), India

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969 1735535455 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Mushroom as Potential Immunity Enhancer Agriculture 815-818

Mushrooms belong neither to the plant nor animal kingdoms, and they actually share more DNA with animals that they do with plants. There are approximately 1,40,000 species of mushroom-forming fungi in the world, but science is only familiar with about 10%, while only 100 species or so are being studied for their potential health benefits and medicinal applications. Some of the popular medicinal mushroom varieties are Coriolus versicolor (Turkey Tails), Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi), Agaricus blazei, Polyporus umbellatus, Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane).

Human Diet, Immunity Enhancement, Medicinal Value, Mushroom NIL 2020-08-25 Popular Article B. Meena, V. Sivakumar, S. Praneetha and C. Sudhalakshmi

B. Meena*

Coconut Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

V. Sivakumar

Coconut Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

S. Praneetha

Coconut Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

C. Sudhalakshmi

Coconut Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

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970 1735621616 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Significance of Zinc in Plant Nutrition Agriculture 823-825

Zinc is plant micronutrient which is involved in many physiological functions its inadequate supply will reduce crop yields. Zinc deficiency is the most wide spread micronutrient deficiency problem, almost all crops and calcareous, sandy soils, peat soils, and soils with high phosphorus and silicon are expected to be deficient. Zinc deficiencies can affect plant by stunting its growth, decreasing number of tillers, chlorosis and smaller leaves, increasing crop maturity period, spikelet sterility and inferior quality of harvested products. Beside its role in crop production Zn plays a part in the basic roles of cellular functions in all living organisms and is involved in improving the human immune system, due to its insufficient intake, human body will suffer from hair and memory loss, skin problems and weakness in body muscles.

Biofortification, Deficiency, Enrichment, Zinc NIL 2020-08-27 Popular Article M. Yuvaraj and K. S. Subramanian

M. Yuvaraj*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

K. S. Subramanian

Dept. of Nanoscience and Technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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971 1735621902 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Grain Processing and Storage Technology – Lessons from China Visit Agriculture 826-831

Grain is the primary element of human existence. Grain reserves are important for food security of any nation. Increasing population, food wastage, demand for diversity of food products, occurrence of natural calamities and climate change are necessitating proper grain storage and processing facilities to ensure constant food supply through replacement of traditional storage methods. Warehouses with modern and sensor based drying, storage and processing facilities are need of the hour. Establishment of mechanized storage and processing facilities aided by solar power helps to establish sustainable and eco-friendly infrastructure. Such systems help reduce grain storage losses and maintain grain quality. Further, Governments should take steps to equip newly set up food parks in India with advanced storage and processing framework. However, small holder farmers can adopt cost-effective hermetically sealable and mechanically durable methods rather than conventional approaches.

China, Grain, Processing, Storage NIL 2020-08-28 General Articles A. V. Ramanjaneyulu

A. V. Ramanjaneyulu

Agricultural Research Station (Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

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972 1735622262 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Common Adulteration in Oil and Ghee and Their Rapid Detection Techniques Agriculture 832-834

Ghee is obtained from the milk and edible oils such as coconut, sesame, peanut, mustard oil are extracted from the seeds of the plants. Taking the advantage of food shortage and lack of monitoring on food safety and quality, few food vendors adopt illegal method of food adulteration. They add similar equally likely food and non-food cheaper substances to the food to increase its volume and appearance for getting higher profit in an illegal manner. This practice of adulteration causes serious threat to human health. The safety of food is vital to all consumers and they must have confidence that the food they buy and eat should be free from adulterants. Easy method of detection of adulterants in foodstuff and its estimation is one of the key concerns in recent years. The aim of this study was the detection of the adulteration in ghee and oil by rapid detection technique.

Adulteration, Detection, Ghee, Oil NIL 2020-08-28 Popular Article Trupti Dash and Kailash Chandra Samal

Trupti Dash*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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973 1735622456 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Different Types of Hydroponics System Agriculture 835-837

Currently hydroponic cultivation is gaining popularity all over the world because of efficient resources management and quality food production. Soil based agriculture is now facing various challenges such as urbanization, natural disaster, climate change, indiscriminate use of chemicals and pesticides which is depleting the land fertility. In this article various hydroponic structures viz. wick, ebb and flow, drip, deep water culture and Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) system; their operations; benefits and limitations; performance of different crops like tomato, cucumber, pepper and leafy greens and water conservation by this technique have been discussed. Several benefits of this technique are less growing time of crops than conventional growing; round the year production; minimal disease and pest incidence and weeding, spraying, watering etc can be eliminated.

Hydroponic, Nutrient Film Technique, Nutrient management, Water conservation NIL 2020-08-28 Popular Article M. Yuvaraj and K. S. Subramanian

M. Yuvaraj*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Vazhavachanur, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

K. S. Subramanian

Dept. of Nanoscience and Technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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974 1735622694 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Significance of Two Spotted Red Spider Mite, Tetranychus urticae on Crop Plants and Its Management Agriculture 838-841

The two spotted red spider mite, Tetranychus urticae (Koch) is a severe pest in tropical regions of the world. The pest cause economic damage in most of the crops across the world. The pest shows resurgence to pyrethroid pesticides and it creates resistance quickly when pesticides are frequently used. Integrated pest management is necessary to manage the severity of the pest in different crop ecosystems. Frequent monitoring, removing alternate hosts, utilizing indigenous technical knowledge, biological control and rotating pesticides is essential to effectively manage the pest.

Acaricide, Pest Management, Red spider mite, Tetranychus urticae NIL 2020-08-29 Popular Article U. Pirithiraj and R. P. Soundararajan

U. Pirithiraj

Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

R. P. Soundararajan*

Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, TNAU, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

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975 1735622918 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Rain Hose Irrigation Technology in Groundnut- A New Innovation in Irrigation System Agriculture 842-843

Climate change has brought changes to our rainfall patterns. The farmers suffer from water scarcity for cultivation. To overcome this, a new innovative irrigation technology, the rain hose irrigation technology has been introduced. It is an affordable spray irrigation technology and a replacement for Sprinkler Irrigation System. It is otherwise called as ‘Rain pipe irrigation’. It is easy to install and maintain. Rain Hose is flexible hose with pattern of drip holes. These drip holes are made with nano punching technology to ensure uniform flow of water. Rain Hose is suitable for closely spaced crops viz., greengram, blackgram, groundnut, radish, onion, greens and other vegetable crops etc. Currently this technology mainly adopted by groundnut growers in Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu.

Higher yield, Low cost, Rain hose irrigation, Water saving NIL 2020-08-29 Popular Article P. Ayyadurai, P. S. Shanmugam and M. Sangeetha

P. Ayyadurai*

Dept. of Crop Management, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

P. S. Shanmugam

Dept. of Pulses, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Sangeetha

Dept. of Soil Science and Chemistry, ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

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976 1735623149 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Value Addition in Fresh Flowers- An Overview Agriculture 844-846

Floriculture is an important industry in terms of profit making. As the flower crops are considered as “High Value, Low Volume crops”, production and value addition of flowers has an important role in deciding the market value. Since flower crops are perishable in nature; it needs a proper postharvest practice and value addition to enhance the value. Nowadays, different kinds of value-added products are formulated and marketed by the agro-enterprises which include essential oils, flavours, fragrance, pharmaceutical and nutraceutical compounds, insecticides, pigments, natural dye, gulkand, rose water, etc. Apart from this, fresh flowers are utilized in our day-to-day life as garlands, hair adornments, bouquets etc. In addition, fresh cut flowers have created a trend in stage decoration and flower arrangement in public and private functions. Traditional flower crops in country like India have its own spiritual importance which makes floriculture sector flourishing.

Cut flowers, Fresh flowers, Postharvest, Value addition NIL 2020-08-29 Popular Article N. Naveena and S. P. Thamaraiselvi

N. Naveena*

Dept. of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. P. Thamaraiselvi

Dept. of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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977 1735623346 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Soil Nutrient Manager: A Mobile App for Farmers in Eastern India Agriculture 847-849

Mobile phones are inextricably linked with life in rural and urban areas alike. Used appropriately, mobile apps could be of huge importance in delivering the intended message to the target population in a rapid and effective manner. In view of the cost involved and environmental concerns associated with indiscriminate use of fertilizers, an Android based mobile application named ‘Soil Nutrient Manager’ has been developed to optimize the fertilizer application and to achieve higher crop yield and farm income in eastern India, particularly Bihar and Jharkhand. The app makes fertilizer recommendations based on native soil fertility status and nutritional requirements of the crop to be grown in a particular region. It can be downloaded from Google play store for free. Operational aspects of the app have been described in this article. Suggestions for further improvement have also been made which would certainly enhance its utility for the farming community in eastern India.

Crop productivity, Fertilizer recommendation, Nutrient requirement, Soil fertility NIL 2020-08-30 Popular Article Manoj Kumar, K. K. Rao and Kirti Saurabh

Manoj Kumar*

ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, RCM, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 004), India

K. K. Rao

ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Kirti Saurabh

ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

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978 1735623573 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Laser Land Levelling-Background, Working Principle and Advantages in Agriculture Agriculture 850-852

Optimum water requirement for crop production is considered one of the most important factors affecting Agricultural production. Scarcity of water including unevenness of fields leads to inefficient use of irrigation water. Proper land levelling is essential for judicious use of scarce irrigation water due to per capita availability of water diminishing day by day. Thus, it is essential to precision land levelling and proper management of irrigation water usage for adequate growth of agriculture. Land leveling enables efficient utilization of scarce water resources through elimination of unnecessary depression and elevated contours. Traditional methods of land levelling are cumbersome, expensive and time consuming. Precision land levelling is essential for increase the food production through proper water distribution in growing populated country like India.

Advantages, Components, Laser Land Levelling, Working Principle NIL 2020-08-31 Popular Article E. Ajay Kumar, G. Vinay and G. Ranjith Kumar

E. Ajay Kumar*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU), Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

G. Vinay

Dept. of Agronomy, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU), Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

G. Ranjith Kumar

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, SSAC, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra (444 104), India

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979 1735623917 Biotica Research Today August (2020) Seed Packaging of Vegetables Agriculture 853-858

It is important to package seed in dry containers for proper storage. For small quantities of seed, these containers may be tin cans, jars, or pots that are glazed on the inside; even reinforced boxes or bags can be suitable. Metal or plastic jerricans, or drums are often used to package large quantities of seed. Regardless of the type of container employed, it should be of standard size and shape, if possible, so that when one is filled with seed of a known purity percentage, the approximate number of seeds it contains can be estimated. Also, containers of standard sizes and shapes are easier to handle. This paper deals about the importance of seed packing and different types of packing materials.

Containers, Packaging, Seed Packing, Storage NIL 2020-08-31 Popular Article A. Sankari, R. Swarna Priya and B. K. Savitha

A. Sankari*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, HC & RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

R. Swarna Priya

Dept. of Vegetable Science, HC & RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

B. K. Savitha

Dept. of Vegetable Science, HC & RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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980 1735628324 Biotica Research Today December (2024) Conservation of Horseshoe Crab: Ecological Importance and Sustainability Challenges Biological Science 483-485

The horseshoe crab is an ancient marine arthropod that plays a major role in a marine environment and is a bioindicator. Apart from this, it has major demand in the biomedical field. It also indirectly helps migratory birds, ecotourism and education. Unfortunately, they are now in an extinct phase due to activities including habitat destruction, overharvesting, climate change and bycatch. In India, their population is mainly reduced due to bycatch and climate. The conservation efforts are done to protect them and their culture technology is underway.

Bioindicator, Bycatch, Conservation, Horseshoe crab NIL 2024-12-10 Popular Article Thejaswini, Susitharan V., Nagaraja P.S., Raghul Ravi, Ishwar Chandra, Priyanka Sanwal and Anjali Kumari

Thejaswini*

ICAR-CIFE Rohtak Centre, Anwal, Haryana (124 411), India

Susitharan V.

ICAR-CIFE Rohtak Centre, Anwal, Haryana (124 411), India

Nagaraja P.S.

ICAR-CIFE Rohtak Centre, Anwal, Haryana (124 411), India

Raghul Ravi

ICAR-CIFE Rohtak Centre, Anwal, Haryana (124 411), India

Ishwar Chandra

ICAR-CIFE Rohtak Centre, Anwal, Haryana (124 411), India

Priyanka Sanwal

ICAR-CIFE Rohtak Centre, Anwal, Haryana (124 411), India

Anjali Kumari

ICAR-CIFE Rohtak Centre, Anwal, Haryana (124 411), India

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981 1735629131 Biotica Research Today December (2024) Tiger Widow and Sea Widow: The Tragic Story of Destitute Wives of Vulnerable Fishermen Community of Indian Sundarbans Mangrove Forest, a UN Heritage Site Biological Science 486-489

Sundarbans is the world’s largest delta and home for large numbers of wildlife animals including the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger. The exploitation of this area has increased as human dependency on forest resources is increasing. Consequently, human-tiger conflict in recent years also increased and in most of the cases, the victims are the male members. The saddest part is that women whose husbands are killed by tigers are stigmatized as "Tiger widows,” and seen as portents of bad luck. In addition to highlighting the numerous hardships endured by "Tiger widows," this article offers insights into alternate sources of income that could improve the lives of this unfortunate woman and the Sundarbans' vulnerable fishing community.

Alternative livelihood option, Human-wildlife conflict, Indian Sundarbans, Tiger widows NIL 2024-12-15 Popular Article Ajoy Saha, Pranab Gogoi, B.K. Das, Pritijyoti Majhi and Piyashi Deb Roy

Ajoy Saha*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

Pranab Gogoi

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

B.K. Das

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

Pritijyoti Majhi

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

Piyashi Deb Roy

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

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982 1735794922 Biotica Research Today Success Stories on Backyard Poultry Rearing under ARYA Programme Agriculture 859-861

Backyard poultry with native breeds is easy to manage, less risky and can generate better incomes, for the poor households. It has the potential to alleviate rural poverty, eradicate malnutrition and create employment opportunities too. With a little external support from KVK Dharmapuri under Attracting and Retaining Youth in Agriculture, Allied Activities (ARYA) by initiating small farm enterprises, the young farming communities in Dharmapuri district have shown that it is possible to improve health and livelihoods.

Backyard, Poultry, Rearing, Success NIL 2020-09-02 Success story R. Thangadurai, P. S. Shanmugam, M. A. Vennila and C. Sivakumar

R. Thangadurai*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

P. S. Shanmugam

Dept. of Pulses, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. A. Vennila

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

C. Sivakumar

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Papparapatty, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

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983 1735795195 Biotica Research Today Aloe vera – A Wonderful Medicinal Plant for Home Garden Agriculture 862-864

Aloe vera is a perennial succulent plant, bearing rosettes of leaves at the end of juicy green branches and grown well in arid and semi-arid climate for its medicinal potency. It is commonly called as ‘Barbados Aloe’, ‘Ghrit Kumari’ or ‘Indian Aloe’. Aloe vera leaves are rich in amino acids, anthraqinones, enzymes, hormones, minerals, salicylic acids, saponins, steroids, sugars, vitamins, etc. It is popular for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, immune modulating and anti-tumor activities as well as antiviral, anti-bacterial, and antifungal properties.

Aloe vera, Cultivation, Home Garden, Medicinal properties NIL 2020-09-03 Popular Article L. C. De

L. C. De

ICAR-NRC for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

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984 1735795404 Biotica Research Today Selection of a Dairy Bull Agriculture 865-866

To get a good dairy cow we have to start with a good dairy bull Dairy bull selection and management are critical aspect for dairy industry. Getting more out of a bull, whether this means more calves per lifetime or more value from these calves can help the dairy farmer earn more profit. Selecting a dairy bull should be panned well in advance before the actual requirement. Examination of bull prior to introduction of the dairy bull in the breeding examination warrants a careful and critical examination of the bull right from the general appearances, muscular skeletal system, the foot, gait and the masculinity.

Brisket, Bull, Selection, Sire NIL 2020-09-04 Popular Article Ahlawat, A. R.

Ahlawat, A. R.

College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

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985 1735795625 Biotica Research Today Importance of Animal Products in Human Diet Agriculture 867-869

Animal products can be improving human nutrition and prevent cardiovascular disorder and bone disorder. Meat, such as poultry, beef, pork and fish, etc. supply many nutrients. Meat is rich in protein, minerals such as iron, zinc and others, rich in vitamin B complexes. Protein plays important role in bone and muscles as building block, it also perform various function of skin, cartilage and blood. Protein produces different Vitamin and minerals which perform different vital role of the human body. The products and byproducts of animals, poultry fish can be positive impact on human health, which rich in protein and easily digestible.

Animal products, Diseases, Health, Human NIL 2020-09-04 Popular Article Anupam Soni, Sharad Mishra, A. K. Santra, V. N. Khune, Rupal Pathak, M. D. Bobade, Ashutosh Dubey, Neetu Sonkar and S. K. Yadav

Anupam Soni*

Dept. of Livestock Production and Management, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, CGKV, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Sharad Mishra

Dept. of Livestock Production and Management, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, CGKV, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

A. K. Santra

Dept. of Livestock Production and Management, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, CGKV, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

V. N. Khune

Dept. of Livestock Production and Management, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, CGKV, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Rupal Pathak

Dept. of Livestock Production and Management, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, CGKV, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

M. D. Bobade

Dept. of Livestock Production and Management, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, CGKV, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Ashutosh Dubey

Dept. of Livestock Production and Management, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, CGKV, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Neetu Sonkar

Dept. of Livestock Production and Management, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, CGKV, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

S. K. Yadav

Dept. of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, CGKV, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

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986 1735796629 Biotica Research Today Improvement of Nutrient Use Efficiency with Zeolite Technology Agriculture 874-875

At global and national level, the big challenge is to fulfill the requirement of food of increasing population. Fertilizer is one of the most important agriculture input require for crop production. Fifty percent of food grain production is depend on the chemical fertilizer. Cost of food production is increases year by year without increasing farmer income. Farmer income is not increasing due to the more use of fertilizer and less efficient use of fertilizer. There is a need to improve the nutrient efficiency by apply something in soil or preparation of slow release fertilizer. Zeolite is clay mineral have such property can improve nutrient efficiency after application in soil or preparation of fertilizer with zeolite material. Zeolite is not only increase nutrient efficiency but also contribute in climate resilient agriculture.

Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zeolite NIL 2020-09-09 Popular Article Pandit V. B., E. Ajay and D. Rajshekhar

Pandit V. B.*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agriculture University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

E. Ajay

National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

D. Rajshekhar

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agriculture University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

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987 1735796936 Biotica Research Today Importance of Soil Mesofauna in Agriculture Ecosystem Agriculture 876-878

The soil mesofauna play a significant role to keep our soil healthy and fertile and it may represent as much as 85 percent population. The meso fauna comprises of variety of mites, collembolans, diplurans and proturans. Amongst soil meso arthropods, the Acarina and the Collembolans are the most diverse and abundant group. They play key role in liberating nutrients and increase productivity within the agriculture and forest ecosystem by breakdown process. Worldwide, a total number of 8,600 described species of Collembola and 1,130 individuals belong to 92 species, 47 genera and 16 families of soil mites were noted. Here in this review an effort took to begin and highlight the significance of arthropods as valuable creature of the soil fauna. Such noteworthy appreciation may largely vague from the public knowledge.

Agriculture, Collembolans, Ecosystem, Mites NIL 2020-09-09 Popular Article Ingle Dipak Shyamrao, M. Raghuraman, Abhinav Kumar, Anil Kumar and Rupesh Kumar Gajbhiye

Ingle Dipak Shyamrao*

Dept. of Entomology, Agriculture College Garhwa, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Jharkhand (834 006), India

M. Raghuraman

Dept. of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Abhinav Kumar

Dept. of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Anil Kumar

Dept. of Entomology, Sugarcane Research Institute, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Bihar (848 125), India

Rupesh Kumar Gajbhiye

Dept. of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

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988 1735798349 Biotica Research Today Success Story on Greengram Seed Production under Precision Farming in Dharmapuri District of Tamil Nadu Agriculture 889-890

Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) commonly known as ‘mungbean’ or ‘moong’ and ‘poor man’s meat’ is one of the main pulse crops in the world particularly in India, which is highly rich in protein (24.7%) along with fibre, vitamin and minerals. It is the third important pulse crop of India grown in nearly 8 percent of the total pulse area of the country. It plays an important role in improving soil health, long term fertility and sustainability of the cropping systems. It is also used as green manuring crop, which adds nitrogen in addition to humus to the soil. It is a soil protecting crop in rainy season. It requires low input and has wider adaptability to grow in short duration (60-90 days). It is also serves as intercrop in the long duration crops. The increasing demand and price escalation makes the farmer to move towards green gram cultivation.

CO-8, Greengram, Precision farming, Seed Production NIL 2020-09-10 Success story P. Ayyadurai, P. S. Shanmugam and S. Panneerselvam

P. Ayyadurai*

Dept. of Crop Management, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

P. S. Shanmugam

Dept. of Pulses, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Panneerselvam

Director, Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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989 1735799382 Biotica Research Today Organic Farming in Pigeonpea: BMPs, Problems and Opportunities Agriculture 896-900

Organic farming is the adoption of non-chemical methods of nutrition, pest and disease control and encourages use of on-farm inputs. Pigeonpea is the most widely used leguminous crop for making dal in our daily diet. Though all are talking about organic farming across crops; but, development of best management practices is at infancy stage. Hence, this research based scientific report gives an overview of practices to be adopted, available opportunities and problems involved in organic pigeonpea production.

Deep ploughing, Green manure, Organic farming, Pigeonpea NIL 2020-09-11 Popular Article A. V. Ramanjaneyulu, A. Madhavi and P. Jagan Mohan Rao

A. V. Ramanjaneyulu*

Agricultural Research Station (Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

A. Madhavi

AICRP on Soil Test Crop Response, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

P. Jagan Mohan Rao

Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal, Telangana (506 007), India

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990 1735799767 Biotica Research Today Millets: A Solution to Food and Nutritional Security in India Agriculture 901-904

Millets are future crop for food and nutritional security under climate change situations. These crops are grown under arid and semi-arid regions with adverse soil and extreme climatic conditions. Nevertheless, areas under these crops are declining over the years and these crops are replaced by the fine cereal crops like rice and wheat. The demand and consumption of millets increased in recent time due to awareness created among public about its enormous health benefits. Hence, there is need to enhance the area and the production of millets for ensuring food and nutritional security in the country. In addition to these, millets are to be recognized as climate change compliant crops to promote their farming and consumption which make them India’s food for the future.

Climate change, Food security, Millets, Nutritional security NIL 2020-09-14 Popular Article Ravi Dupdal, S. L. Patil, B. S. Naik, Ramesha M. N., M. Prabhavati and Ravi K. N.

Ravi Dupdal*

ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Ballari, Karnataka (583 104), India

S. L. Patil

ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Ballari, Karnataka (583 104), India

B. S. Naik

ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Ballari, Karnataka (583 104), India

Ramesha M. N.

ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Ballari, Karnataka (583 104), India

M. Prabhavati

ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Ballari, Karnataka (583 104), India

Ravi K. N.

ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Ballari, Karnataka (583 104), India

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991 1735800057 Biotica Research Today Nanofertilizers: The Next Generation Fertilizer Agriculture 905-907

Agriculture is the backbone of our country. 35-40 % of the crop productivity depends upon fertilizers. Fertilizer is essential for the higher productivity but enormous quantity of fertilizers are being dumped in the cropped fields leading to loss of nutrients by leaching, denitrification and volatilization and causes eutrophication of water bodies. So, the development and adoption of nano-based fertilizers in Agriculture would help to reduce the adverse effects on environment.

Agriculture, Nanofertilizers, Nanotechnology, Plant growth NIL 2020-09-14 Popular Article Sainath Nagula and A. V. Ramanjaneyulu

Sainath Nagula*

Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Agricultural Research Station, Tornala, Telangana (502 114), India

A. V. Ramanjaneyulu

Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Agricultural Research Station, Tornala, Telangana (502 114), India

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992 1735800572 Biotica Research Today Detection of Adulteration in Ghee - A Spoonful of Yellow Magic Agriculture 912-914

Food, either animal or plant origin is very essential for survival and provide nutritional support. For good health it is necessary to consume safe and quality food. Adulteration is adding unwanted materials or substances that can be mixed and cannot be noticed by the customer during purchase. To get profits in illegally or to improve the storage period, food is being adulterated. Almost all the foods we consume, from vegetables to vegetable oils, from milk to milk products, from fruits to jams, etc., that we buy from markets constitutes minor or major adulterants. Consuming this kind of foods causes severe health problems. So, we should buy these foods from only certified sellers and by careful checking by ourselves. There are so many methods through which we can identify the adulterants in a product, particularly the milk products such as ghee.

Adulteration, Detection techniques, FSSAI, Ghee NIL 2020-09-15 Popular Article Subhash Yadav Nagalla, Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Kailash Chandra Samal and Smrutilekha Sahoo

Subhash Yadav Nagalla

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Surya Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Surya Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Surya Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Smrutilekha Sahoo

Dept. of Occupational Therapy, NILD, Bonhooghly, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 090), India

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993 1735800848 Biotica Research Today Liquid Biofertilizer - A Boon to Sustainable Agriculture Agriculture 915-918

The global necessity to increase agricultural production from a steadily decreasing and degrading land resource base has placed considerable strain on the fragile agro-ecosystems. In order to promote organic farming of the agriculturally important and high value crops in an eco-friendly and sustainable manner, biofertilizers/ microbial inoculants are important in restricting the soil degradation and environmental pollution and ameliorating the problem of low productivity. They are renewable, pollution free, eco-friendly and are of low cost. Liquid bioinoculants are special liquid formulations containing not only the desired microorganisms and their nutrients, but also, special cell protectants or substances that encourage the longer shelf life and tolerance to adverse conditions. Liquid inoculant formulation with good field performance characteristics that uses low cost materials and are easily attainable by small producers could overcome many problems associated with processing solid carriers.

Bioinoculant, Liquid Biofertilizer, Soil Health, Sustainable Agriculture NIL 2020-09-15 Popular Article R. Poorniammal., S. Prabhu, J. Kannan and D. Janaki

R. Poorniammal.*

Dept. of Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625604), India

S. Prabhu

Dept. of Plant Protection, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625604), India

J. Kannan

Dept. of Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625604), India

D. Janaki

Dept. of Natural Resource Management, Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625604), India

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994 1735801187 Biotica Research Today Melia dubia – A Money Spinner for the Agrarian Community Agriculture 919-920

Melia dubia belongs to Meliaceae family and is a fast growing species of tropical deciduous tree that attains maturity in four to six years. Being anti-termite in itself, these softwood trees are suitable for plywood production and paper pulp industry, which makes it beneficial for the farmers to cultivate them in agro-forestry systems. This tree has a myriad of purposes starting from plywood industry to pharmaceutical uses. It is a low maintenance crop and ratoons can be used for cultivation in the subsequent years. Intercropping with Melia dubia can also fetch a good income to the farmers.

Agroforestry, Malabar Neem, Melia dubia, Ratoon NIL 2020-09-15 Popular Article Abhilasa Kousik Borthakur

Abhilasa Kousik Borthakur

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Assam Agricultural University, Darrang, Assam (784 125), India

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995 1735833339 Innovative Farming Evaluation of Advanced Entries/ Varieties of Finger Millet in Tripura Agriculture 07-09

Eleusine coracana, commonly known as finger millet or ragi in India, ranks sixth among grains, behind rice, bajra, sorghum, wheat and maize. After foxtail millet, sorghum and pearl millet, it is regarded as the most significant millet in the world. Consumed in significant amounts in the region, millet flour has been attributed the highest nutritional quality among coarser cereals. They are also an abundant source of dietary fibres (18%), calcium (344 mg per 100 g), polyphenols (0.3-3%) and bioactive compounds such as tannin (0.04-3.47), phyate (0.48%), oxalate (0.27%), cyanide (0.17%) and saponin (0.36%). Also, it supplies necessary amino acids (methionine, leucine, phenylalanine and isoleucine), minerals (iron, phosphorus and calcium) and vitamins, including B-complex (1.71 mg) and E (22 mg). Finger millet seems to be the most crucial small millet in India, both because of its ability to tolerate low water availability (rainfall <500 mm annum-1) and its dual use as food and fodder. It is one of the small millets that have high nutritional quality with proteins (6-13%), minerals (2.5-3.5%) such as thiamine and riboflavin among other important nutrients. Although there is limited research on finger millet in Tripura, agro-climatic conditions are suitable for this crop.

To explore its potential, an advanced varietal trial was conducted in a randomized block design (RBD) with 3 replications, evaluating 10 entries: BR-14-3, KOPN 942, VL 387, VR 1101, OEB 602, GPU 45, VL 352, GPU 67 and PR 202. Among these, KOPN 942 exhibited superior performance with the highest plant height (103.89 cm), maximum number of effective tillers (5.63), dry fodder yield (19 kg ha-1) and grain yield (2,080 kg ha-1). Based on these findings, KOPN 942 is recommended for adoption by farmers to enhance cropping systems and productivity.

Advanced varieties, Eleusine coracana, Finger millet, KOPN 942, Productivity, Tripura https://doi.org/10.54083/IF/9.1.2024/07-09 2024-02-08 Research Articles Debashree Saha, Anandika Kar, Niladri Paul and Utpal Giri

Debashree Saha

College of Agriculture Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

Anandika Kar*

College of Agriculture Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

Niladri Paul

College of Agriculture Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

Utpal Giri

College of Agriculture Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

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996 1735967317 Biotica Research Today Diagnostic Symptoms and Management of Bud Rot Disease in Coconut Agriculture 924-926

Bud rot disease caused by Phytophthora palmivora is the most debilitating disease of coconut inflicting economic losses both in the nursery and young coconut garden. The characteristic symptoms of the disease are browning and drying of the spindle leaf followed by rotting of growing bud which emits foul smell. Infected seedlings or young palms are succumbs to death if suitable management strategies not adopted at the early stage of infection itself. It is widely prevalent in all the coconut growing regions of India and in Tamil Nadu, it is observed in all the coconut growing districts especially in young coconut garden of below 10 years old. The disease can be managed by maintaining proper sanitation, improving drainage, regular crown cleaning and crown application of Copperoxy chloride @ 2.5 g/litre of water.

Bud Rot Disease, Coconut, Management, Symptoms NIL 2020-09-16 Popular Article E. Rajeswari, V. Sivakumar, S. Praneetha and H. P. Maheswarappa

E. Rajeswari*

Coconut Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

V. Sivakumar

Coconut Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

S. Praneetha

Coconut Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

H. P. Maheswarappa

Project Coordinator Cell, AICRP on Palms, ICAR-Central Plantation Crop Research Institute, Kasaragod, Kerala (671 124), India

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997 1735967690 Biotica Research Today Future of AI in Agriculture Agriculture 927-929

Worldwide populace is relied upon to arrive at in excess of nine billion by 2050 which will require an expansion in horticultural creation by 70% so as to satisfy the interest. Just about 10% of this expanded creation may originate from accessibility of unused terrains and rest of 90% ought to be satisfied by increase of current creation. In this, utilization of most recent innovative answers for make cultivating more productive, stays probably the best need. The shortage and expanding work costs, raising expense of development and harvest disappointments related with flighty yield because of ailments, disappointment in precipitation, climatic varieties and loss of soil ripeness. Using artificial intelligence we can develop smart farming to minimize loss of farmers and provide them with high yield. Using artificial intelligence, one can gather large amount of data from government and public websites or real time monitoring of various data is also possible by using IoT (Internet of Things).

Artificial intelligence, Climatic varieties, IoT, Precipitation NIL 2020-09-17 Popular Article Monika Karnawat, S. K. Trivedi, Deepak Nagar and Rohitashv Nagar

Monika Karnawat*

Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

S. K. Trivedi

Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

Deepak Nagar

Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

Rohitashv Nagar

Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

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998 1735967932 Biotica Research Today Vegetable Grafting: A Novel Technique to Enhance Yield and Quality in Vegetable Crops Agriculture 930-932

Vegetable cultivation is seriously affected by the tremendous increase in population causing shrinkage of cultivable land and biotic and abiotic stresses due to changing climate. Vegetable grafting is a novel technique to develop resistant and superior quality vegetables through the union of scion of desirable quality with the rootstock of desirable tolerance level. To attain success in vegetable grafting a potential rootstock that is compatible and appropriate to impart tolerance should be selected which is genotype specific. Furthermore, the grafted plants are placed in healing chamber with high RH of 80-95 % at 25-30 °C and also are hardened before transplanting. An increase in yield upto 80% in Solanaceae and up to 60-90 % in cucurbits has been witnessed through vegetable grafting. Though vegetable grafting is labour and skill demanding, it has emerged as a successful technique to withstand various stresses even nematode infestation which is otherwise not easily controlled.

Grafting, Quality, Stress, Yield NIL 2020-09-17 Popular Article Jayanth S. and Navya Vishweshwar Bhat

Jayanth S.

Dept. of Vegetable Science, ASPEE College of Horticulrure and Forestry, NAU, Navsari, Vejalpore, Gujarat (396 450), India

Navya Vishweshwar Bhat*

Dept. of Fruit Science and Horticulture Technology, OUAT, Surya Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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999 1735968162 Biotica Research Today Dendrobium: Vital Element for Immunomodulatory Activities Agriculture 933-937

Dendrobiums are tropical orchids, requiring warm, humid and shady conditions. This is the second largest genus of the orchid family with more than 1000 species. The Dendrobium plant is unusual in appearance, being sympodial, epiphytic, and bulbless, which is a name they are worthy of, the name coming from Greek origin: "dendros", tree, and "bios", life. Dendrobium species have been used for a thousand years as first-rate herbs in traditional medicines. They are source of tonic, astringent, analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory substances, and have been traditionally used as medicinal herbs in the treatment of a variety of disorders, such as, nourishing the stomach, enhancing production of body fluids or nourishing.

Analgesic, Antipyretic, Astringent, Dendrobium NIL 2020-09-20 Popular Article Manu Fauzdar, Pranay Prasoon Pandey and Vijay Kaul

Manu Fauzdar

School of Agricultural Sciences, Career Point University, Aalniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

Pranay Prasoon Pandey*

Institute of Horticulture Technology, NCR Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh (201 310), India

Vijay Kaul

Institute of Horticulture Technology, NCR Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh (201 310), India

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1000 1735968440 Biotica Research Today Essential Oils in India - History and Future Prospects Agriculture 938-940

Essential oils are aromatic essences extracted from natural plant sources and synthesized artificially also they can be used in perfumery, pharmaceutical, paint industries, food applications, sanitary and cosmetic products. India is known to have a good old history in the usage of these essential oils. Essential oils do have a significant role in the day to day life as such they are needed from cradle to the grave in all the social functions.

Aroma, Essential oil, Future Prospects, History NIL 2020-09-21 Popular Article Ravi Pujari, Sharan Bhoopal Reddy and Satishkumar M.

Ravi Pujari*

Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Bheemarayanagudi, Karnataka (585 287), India

Sharan Bhoopal Reddy

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Bheemarayanagudi, Karnataka (585 287), India

Satishkumar M.

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, Bheemarayanagudi, Karnataka (585 287), India

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1001 1735968975 Biotica Research Today Some Major Problematic Soils and Their Management Agriculture 944-945

A soil provides nutrients and other essential requirements for normal plant growth. A fertile soil with no major constraints can give maximum output. Problematic soils (saline soils, sodic soil, acid and acid sulphate soil, saline sodic soil, etc.) are different from normal soils with certain limitations for plant growth. Excess salinity level, Sodium content that leads to deflocculation and high acidity level all these are harmful for normal plant growth. Correction methods such as scrapping, leaching, profile inversion, organic matter applications, liming, gypsum, etc. are applied in case of these soils along with suitable cropping systems are necessary.

ESP, pH, Problematic Soils, SAR NIL 2020-09-24 Popular Article Kumar Chiranjeeb, Vivek Kumar, Priyanka Kumari, Abhisek Pal

Kumar Chiranjeeb*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, GIET University, School of Agriculture, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765022), India

Vivek Kumar

Dept. of Soil Science, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Priyanka Kumari

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur, Bihar (813 210), India

Abhisek Pal

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, GIET University, School of Agriculture, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765022), India

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1002 1735969533 Biotica Research Today Integrated Pest Management of Invasive “Tomato Pinworm Pest” Agriculture 950-952

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicon L.) is one of the most popular and widely grown vegetables in the world, ranking second in importance to potato in many countries. The fruits are eaten raw or cooked. Scientific name of Tomato pin worm is Tuta absoluta, which is a moth belongs to family Gelechiidae, order Lepidoptera. This is known by the other common names tomato leaf miner, and South American tomato moth. It affects the plant parts such as leaves, stems, buds, young fruit, and ripe fruit. It can cause up to 90% loss of yield and fruit quality under greenhouses and field conditions. No single method is effective for management of this pest. However integrated approach is effective measure for management of tomato pinworm pest.

Integrated Pest Management, Nature of damage, Pinworm, Tomato NIL 2020-09-25 Popular Article M. Venkateswara Reddy

M. Venkateswara Reddy

Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderanad, Telangana (500 030), India

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1003 1735970670 Biotica Research Today Lettuce: A Nutritious Salad Crop Agriculture 956-958

Lettuce is one of the most preferred exotic salad vegetable which has extraordinary health benefiting properties. It can be classified into five types viz., Crisphead, Romaine, Butterhead, Leaf and Stem Lettuce. Lettuce plant has a small and shallow root system; therefore surface soil should be rich in nutrients. In India, it is gaining popularity with the change in food habit and health consciousness among the people. There is an increasing demand by consumers for safe and nutritious foods that improves the physical performance, reduces the risk of diseases and increases the life span. Leaf lettuce is getting more and more preference in the country due to the rise in the tourism sector and its liking by the foreign travelers. It has a bright potential of becoming a business model as well as a healthy food crop for the growers and consumers.

Butterhead, Crisphead, Lettuce, Salad crop NIL 2020-09-26 Popular Article Seema Thakur, Jayesh Garg , Devinder Kumar Mehta and Rajesh Thakur

Seema Thakur*

KVK, Solan, Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Jayesh Garg

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Devinder Kumar Mehta

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

Rajesh Thakur

KVK, Solan, Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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1004 1735970960 Biotica Research Today Business Opportunity for Developing Entrepreneurship in Sugarcane Sector Agriculture 959-961

Sugarcane crop and its by-products are the important components which exert profound influence on the rural economy by supporting millions of livelihoods in the country as well as world. They are support the national agrarian economy by increasing GDP and foreign exchanges, besides supporting subsidiary industrial development. Sugarcane provides opportunity to the growers to become entrepreneur. By developing products of sugarcane (white sugar) and use of by-products such as Jaggery, baggase, Pressmud, Charcoal, Molasses, etc. farmers can develop their entrepreneurial activity in sugarcane sector as it is produced in huge quantity.

By-products, Entrepreneur, GDP, Sugarcane NIL 2020-09-26 Popular Article Lalita Rana, A. Raj Shravanthi, Manish Kumar, Navnit Kumar and A. K. Singh

Lalita Rana*

Sugarcane Research Institute, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

A. Raj Shravanthi

School of Agribusiness and Rural Management, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Manish Kumar3

Bank of Baroda, Nawabganj, Allahabad (229 412), India

Navnit Kumar

Sugarcane Research Institute, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

A. K. Singh

Sugarcane Research Institute, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

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1005 1735971917 Biotica Research Today Structure of Agricultural Input Subsidies in India Agriculture 966-967

A subsidy is an important instrument of fiscal policy and it is necessary as a production accelerating catalyst for the farmers. The central and state governments provide assistance to the farmers by implementing different schemes. Among them, agricultural subsidy schemes play a major role in improving the socio-economic status of the farmers. There are several agricultural inputs subsidies like fertilizer subsidy, power subsidy, irrigation and credit subsidy etc., and these subsidies acts as incentives for the farmers to do farming.

Farmers, Fiscal Policy, Incentives, Subsidy Scheme NIL 2020-09-29 Popular Article Satishkumar, M., Sharan Bhoopal Reddy, Ravi Pujari and Maruti, K.

Satishkumar, M.*

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, Bheemarayanagudi, Karnataka (585 287), India

Sharan Bhoopal Reddy

 Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Bheemarayanagudi, Karnataka (585 287), India

Ravi Pujari

Dept. of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Bheemarayanagudi, Karnataka (585 287), India

Maruti, K.

Agricultural Research Station, Bheemarayanagudi, Karnataka (585 287), India

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1006 1735972194 Biotica Research Today Success Story on TNAU Technology Capsule against Fall Army Worm in Maize Agriculture 968-970

Corn, (Zea mays), also called Indian corn or maize, cereal plant of the grass family (Poaceae) and its edible grain used as livestock feed, human food, biofuel, and raw material in industry. Maize crop is cultivated in all districts of Tamil Nadu and also in Vellore district throughout all the seasons. Due to the recent invasion of fall armyworm, (Spodoptera frugiperda, J. E. Smith), the farmers were panic to go for maize cultivation. With the adoption of technology capsule, the farmer has registered lowest leaf, whorl, tassel and cob damage caused due to FAW also had direct relation in reducing the larval population. Due to technology interventions viz., border and intercrops there resulted in the increased activity of natural enemies’ viz., Coccinellids and spiders. The highest grain yield was recorded in the technology capsule (4200 kg/ha) with 44.8 percent increase over farmers practice (2900 Kg/ha).

Fall armyworm, Maize, Spodoptera frugiperda, Technology capsule NIL 2020-09-29 Success story P. Thilagam, D. Dinakaran and S. Paneerselvam

P. Thilagam*

Agricultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Virinjipuram, Vellore, Tamil Nadu (632 204), India

D. Dinakaran

Dept. of Plant Protection, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vazhavachanur, Tiruvanamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

S. Paneerselvam

Director, Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 004), India

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1007 1735972741 Biotica Research Today Nutritional Importance and Value Addition in Maize Agriculture 974-977

Maize is an important cereal crop of the world and is known as ‘Queen of Cereals’ due to its multifarious uses and high productivity potential. It plays a very important role in human and animal nutrition in general and meeting the protein and calorie requirement of millions of people across developing countries, in particular. It is also a source of high fiber, antioxidants, other vitamins and minerals. But, in India, a major portion of maize goes for poultry and animal feed. This article narrates scope and opportunities for innumerable number of value added products from Maize which are important for nutritional and livelihood security.

Maize, Nutritional value, Value added products, Zea mays L. NIL 2020-09-30 Popular Article A. Saritha, A. V. Ramanjaneyulu, N. Sainath and E. Umarani

A. Saritha*

Agricultural Research Station (Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

A. V. Ramanjaneyulu

Agricultural Research Station (Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

N. Sainath

Agricultural Research Station (Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

E. Umarani

Agricultural Research Station (Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University), Tornala, Siddipet, Telangana (502 114), India

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1008 1735972953 Biotica Research Today Garlic: An Immunity Booster Spice during Pandemic Situation Agriculture 978-980

India has been bestowed with a wide range of climates and physio-geographical conditions and as such is most suitable for growing various kinds of horticultural crops such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, nuts, spices and plantation crops. Among the spice crops, Garlic (Allium sativum) is a functional food well-known for its immune-modulatory, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic, antitumor properties. Its antiviral efficiency was also demonstrated. Some constituents of this plant were found to be active against protozoan parasites. The relations among immune system parameters, leptin, leptin receptor, adenosin mono phosphate-activated protein kinase, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-gamma have also been interpreted. In conclusion, garlic Allium sativum may be an acceptable preventive measure against pandemic situations to boost immune system cells and to repress the production and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as an adipose tissue derived hormone leptin having the pro-inflammatory nature.

Garlic, Immunity, Pandemic, Spices NIL 2020-09-30 Popular Article Y. D. Pawar and Akshay Patil

Y. D. Pawar*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, S. D. Agricultural University, Deesa, Banaskantha, Gujarat (385 535), India

Akshay Patil

Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh (173 230), India

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1009 1735973174 Biotica Research Today Biofortification: A Promising Way to Alleviate Malnutrition Agriculture 981-982

Regular consumption of biofortified crops in developing countries where micronutrient deficiency is common has been shown to increase micronutrient intakes and thus help meet the World Health Organization's dietary recommendations. In terms of micronutrient status, most research has been conducted using provitamin A-biofortified crops (particularly orange sweet potato), with large 2 to 3 years studies indicating increases in plasma retinol, though additional studies measuring change in body stores would provide more definitive evidence. There is some evidence to suggest that iron-biofortified crops can increase iron status (measured by serum ferritin and total body iron), but further studies are required to demonstrate the efficacy of zinc-biofortified foods.

Biofortification, Golden rice, Malnutrition, Multi-biofortification NIL 2020-09-30 Popular Article G. Prasanna and Ch. Ravali

G. Prasanna

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

Ch. Ravali*

Dept. of Soil Science, PJTSAU, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

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1010 1736961795 Biotica Research Today December (2024) Chemical Weed Management on Baby Corn (Zea mays L.): A Review Agriculture 490-494

Baby corn is plucked from the maize fields within 2 to 3 days of silk emergence, before fertilization begins. Baby corn offers diverse uses, including as a tasty vegetable, nutritious livestock feed and raw material for food processing. Its cultivation can boost profits, especially in peri-urban areas. This versatility makes it a valuable crop for farmers and food industries alike, promoting both economic viability and sustainability. In modern intensive farming, weed management is crucial due to heavy fertilizer and irrigation use. Weed infestation during the summer season results in a 40-50% reduction in baby corn yield and farmers suffer a greater financial loss when their crop yields are lost entirely. Reducing weed impact on baby corn requires considering weed type, competition duration and loss severity. A particular application of herbicides can't control all the community of weeds. The consensus among researchers highlights that using pre-emergence, post-emergence, or a combination of both through tank mixing is most effective for controlling weeds and increasing baby corn yield. These techniques optimize weed management effectiveness while drastically lowering weed dry weight. Herbicides applied before and after plant emergence initially reduce soil microorganism numbers. This disturbance in the soil ecosystem can affect nutrient cycling and soil health. Despite the initial decline, microbial populations can recover over time, adapting to herbicide presence or benefiting from reduced weed competition. However, regular use of similar herbicides can lead to herbicide resistance, so it's important to investigate new herbicide options.

Herbicides, Herbicides resistant, Soil micro-flora, Weed flora https://doi.org/10.54083/BioResToday/6.12.2024/490-494 2024-12-20 Review Articles Suhrid Teli, Abhijit Saha and Bobilan Debbarma

Suhrid Teli*

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

Abhijit Saha

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

Bobilan Debbarma

Dept. of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura (799 210), India

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1011 1736962133 Biotica Research Today December (2024) Land Resource Inventory at 1:10000 Scale for North Eastern Region Agriculture 495-498

A detailed land resource inventory (1:10000 scale) was carried out using remote sensing data in the Jirang block of Ri-Bhoi district. Typical pedons that reflect the main landforms in the study area are the plateau, inter-hill valley plain and denudational hills. Granite and gneiss from various land uses formed these pedons. The soils ranged in hue from dark greyish brown to red, had a high level of organic carbon (which declined with depth) and were high to moderately acidic in response. Ultisols are soils found on hills with high denudation, higher and lower plateaus that are strongly dissected and lower plateaus with low dissection. Their base saturation is less than 35%, making them extremely weathered (kandic horizons). Alfisols are highly weathered soils on low-denudational hills and are found in the lower plateau areas with moderate dissection and the upper valley; however, the latter has a lower base saturation. The lower valley soils are made up of alfisols (aquic moisture regime).

Land resource inventory, Landscape ecological unit, Remote sensing, Soil properties NIL 2024-12-25 Popular Article Roomesh Kumar Jena, Partha Deb Roy, Ankita Jha, Pravash Chandra Moharana, Gulshan Kumar Sharma, Ayesha Mohanty and Kaushik Kumar Panigrahi

Roomesh Kumar Jena*

ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 023), India

Partha Deb Roy

ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 023), India

Ankita Jha

ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 023), India

Pravash Chandra Moharana

ICAR-National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning, Nagpur, Maharashtra (440 033), India

Gulshan Kumar Sharma

ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Kota, Rajasthan (324 002), India

Ayesha Mohanty

Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kaushik Kumar Panigrahi

Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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1012 1736962640 Biotica Research Today December (2024) Mangosteen: A Nutrient-Rich Super Fruit Agriculture 499-501

Mangosteen is one of the most delicious fruit. It has great cultural significance for the people. It is a rich source of nutrients and bioactive compounds. This fruit shares an important contribution to traditional remedies as well as modern medicines. It is rich in xanthones, flavonoids and other phytochemicals. These compounds demonstrate promising bioactivities and blood sugar-regulating properties. This makes mangosteen a better option for diabetes management. Its versatility extends from processed products such as beverages, powders, skincare formulations and natural dyes. Although, the benefits of this remarkable fruit are well identified, further research will unlock its capacity as an amazing fruit that promotes health.

Bioactive compounds, Diabetes, Mangosteen, Xanthones NIL 2024-12-30 Popular Article Ajay Kumar, Yamini Yadav, Aditya Ingole and Imamuddin Shah

Ajay Kumar

Division of Fruits and Horticultural Technology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Yamini Yadav*

Division of Microbiology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Aditya Ingole

Division of Fruits and Horticultural Technology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Imamuddin Shah

Dept. of Vegetable Science, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

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1013 1738122392 Innovative Farming Clonal Reproduction in Vertebrates and Redefining Genetic Dead Ends of Evolution Agriculture 01-05

The phenomenon of clonal reproduction in animals in general and revival of clonality in Self Incompatible (SI) animal species in particular are of immense interest to ecology, evolutionary studies and conservation genetics. Clonal reproduction in metazoan species occurs by various mechanisms, including parthenogenesis, hybridogenesis and self fertilization. The offspring generated by these mechanisms are true copies of their single parent due to lack of genetic recombination and earlier studies have observed compromised variation at population level in species that have an exclusively clonal mode of reproduction. Since the undisputed role of genetic variability acting as a raw material for natural selection and thereby for evolution is known, the successful persistence of these species and populations for such long periods of time in evolutionary history is baffling. In recent years significant levels of genetic variation have been encountered in several populations of clonally reproducing animals through more informative and highly polymorphic molecular marker data. Various strategies have been suggested to be in play in the process of maintaining variability in population and preservation of evolutionary potential of the species. It appears that populations of all clonal species uses a combination of strategies such as inter-population migrations, occasional out-crossings and hybridization with closely related species to prevent severe inbreeding and loss of viability. Interestingly, several SI species have recently been documented to resort to parthenogenetic reproduction in captivity. These observations have tremendous significance to various practical aspects of genetics such as conservation, biological containment and clinical study of numerical aberrations of chromosomes.

Evolution, Genetic variation, Heterozygosity, Recombination, Vertebrate https://doi.org/10.54083/IF/10.1.2025/01-05 2025-01-25 Review Articles Rekha Das, Himanshu Priyadarshi, Kouberi Nath, Asit Chakrabarti and Bikash Shil

Rekha Das*

ICAR-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Tripura Centre, Tripura (799 210), India

Himanshu Priyadarshi

College of Fisheries, under CAU (Imphal), Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

Kouberi Nath

ICAR-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Tripura Centre, Tripura (799 210), India

Asit Chakrabarti

ICAR-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Tripura Centre, Tripura (799 210), India

Bikash Shil

ICAR-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Tripura Centre, Tripura (799 210), India

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1014 1738124762 Biotica Research Today Rooted Resilience: Transforming Stones into Living Art with Root-over-Rock Bonsai Agriculture 01-03

The art of bonsai extends beyond merely cultivating a tree in a pot, evolving into a sophisticated discipline that mirrors nature's beauty in miniature form. Root-over-rock bonsai, a particularly captivating style, exemplifies resilience and adaptability by mimicking natural processes where tree roots grow over rocks to access soil. This technique involves carefully guiding roots over a selected rock, embedding and training them for several years before revealing their matured forms. The process demands patience, precision and artistry, resulting in a visually striking and stable bonsai.

Bonsai cultivation, Miniature landscaping, Root-over-rock, Sustainable artistry NIL 2025-01-04 Popular Article R. Arunkumar and H. Abdul Kaffoor

R. Arunkumar

Dept. of Botany, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 029), India

H. Abdul Kaffoor*

Dept. of Botany, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 029), India

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1015 1738125642 Biotica Research Today Phytophthora: An Emerging Threat to Olive Cultivation Agriculture 07-09

Phytophthora and its devastating damage to various agricultural, horticultural and forestry species is a never-ending saga. However, a recent survey in Sardinia, Italy has made headlines as a widespread dieback and decline of wild olives across 200 ha area. The two yearlong studies focused on the identification of causal agents and mapping the diseased area. Isolation of multiple Phytophthora species from such a small area has astonished researchers with P. pseudocryptogea and P. bilorbang being the two most frequent. However, the involvement of phytophthora in olives is not new and possesses a great historical significance worldwide. Infection on wild olives, which serve as rootstock for commercial olives, has the potential to bring down the overall olive production. Thus, to save the olive cultivators and this valuable component of agroforestry landscape, further research on the pathogen with advanced disease monitoring and management practices are waiting to be ventured more intensely.

Agriculture, Agroforestry, Olive, Phytophthora NIL 2025-01-15 Popular Article Moitreyee Das, Data Ram Saini, Himanshu Singh, Nalini P. Pradhan and Ipsita Maiti

Moitreyee Das

Dept. of Mycology and Plant Pathology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Data Ram Saini

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Himanshu Singh

Dept. of Mycology and Plant Pathology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Nalini P. Pradhan

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Ipsita Maiti*

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

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1016 1738388384 Biotica Research Today Water Quality of Manli River, Thrissur, Kerala: A Ticking Bomb? Agriculture 16-20

Water quality is the basis of public health and environmental sustainability and rivers are vital sources of water. Using physical, chemical and bacteriological criteria, the current study evaluated the degree of water contamination in the Manli River in Kerala, India. Five locations along the river, including the upper and lower stream sections, were used to gather water samples. Turbidity, electrical conductivity, pH, total dissolved solids, alkalinity, hardness and chemical ions were all measured in the samples. Except for iron, which at one place surpassed the permissible level, most of the physical and chemical properties stayed within acceptable bounds. The prevalence of sewage contamination was implied by the bacteriological analysis, which revealed the growth of coliform bacteria in every sample site. Reduced water quality was indicated by a downstream drop in aquatic life, especially the pollution-enduring odonate species Brachythemis contaminata. Some of the possible sources of contamination include the direct discharge of wastewater that seeps from nearby industrial zones and towns. According to the study, to reduce health hazards and save the river's ecosystem, immediate action is required, including the construction of a water treatment plant in Eravakkad.

Coliform bacteria, Manli river, Turbidity, Water quality https://doi.org/10.54083/BRT/7.1.2025/16-20 2025-01-21 Short Communication Murali K.V., Abhin M. Sunil and Gopakumar S.

Murali K.V.*

Dept. of Forest Resource Management, College of Forestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India

Abhin M. Sunil

Dept. of Wildlife Sciences, College of Forestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India

Gopakumar S.

Dept. of Forest Resource Management, College of Forestry, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India

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1017 1738646848 Plant Health Archives Knowledge Level of Farmers on Safe Use of Pesticides in Barpeta District of Assam Agriculture 98-103

The study on the impact of awareness programme on farmers’ knowledge regarding the safe use of pesticides revealed a significant increase in knowledge among the participants after the programme. Socio-economic factors were also analyzed for their association with knowledge gain. A positive correlation between education level and knowledge acquisition was observed from the study. However, the variables such as occupation, age, experience in farming, family type, information source about farming and farm size did not exhibit significant correlation. The results of investigation observed that the farmers often depended on the advice from other experienced farmers and agriculture input dealers regarding various farming activities. The input dealers and the farmers showed limited interest about the safe pesticide handling practices. The significant importance of awareness programme in improving the farmers’ knowledge level was observed in the present investigation. Organizing regular and frequent awareness programme regarding safe handling of pesticides could be suggested to make people aware of the harmful effects of chemical pesticides.

Awareness programme, Knowledge, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Safe use of pesticides https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.3.2024/98-103 2024-08-29 Research Articles G.K. Upamanya, C. Deka, Haridra Sharma and A.K. Deka

G.K. Upamanya*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, SCS College of Agriculture, AAU, Dhubri, Assam (783 376), India

C. Deka

Extension Education Institute (NE Region), AAU, Khanapara, Assam (781 022), India

Haridra Sharma

Dept. of Extension Education, B.N. College of Agriculture, AAU, Biswanath Chariali, Assam (784 176), India

A.K. Deka

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, AAU, Barpeta, Assam (781 316), India

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1018 1738730834 Biotica Research Today Agroforestry in India: Challenges and Future Prospects Agriculture 24-27

The practices of agroforestry have shown a great impact on the agricultural system in India. 8.2% of total geographical area or around 25.31 million hectares area used for agroforestry in India. Although agroforestry system has many benefits like it provides alternative source of income, farmers can produce crops along with timer and non-timber forest products. It also supports higher yield of crops. But agroforestry system currently faces many challenges in India like lack of high-quality planting materials, lack of proper research, strict rules and regulations related to transporting and cutting of plants. These challenges are the main reasons which hindered farmers to adopt agroforestry system. Government of India brings National Agroforestry Policy in 2014 to solve these challenges for its wide adoption.

Agroforestry structures, Economic potential, Fuel wood, Sustainable agriculture NIL 2025-01-25 Popular Article Manorath Sen, Ajit Kumar Maurya and S.N. Murthy Midde

Manorath Sen*

ICFRE-Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (342 005), India

Ajit Kumar Maurya

ICFRE-Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (482 021), India

S.N. Murthy Midde

ICFRE-Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur, Rajasthan (342 005), India

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1019 1738735142 Plant Health Archives Abundance of Major Pests of Okra in Relation to Crop Phenology and Cropping Systems Plant Pathology 104-108

The prevalence of the important okra pests (cv. AO-1), which include the red spider mite (Tetranychus urticae), leaf hopper (Amrasca biguttula biguttula), whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), and shoot & fruit borer (Earias vitella), was investigated in both conventional and organic okra farming systems at Navsari Agricultural University in Gujarat from 2018 to 2020. Fruit damage has observed peak at the fruiting stage (23.57 & 20.44%), as evidenced by the highest populations of shoot and fruit borer (2.29 & 1.93). Significant and positive correlations between pest population and fruit damage with crop stage were found (r' = 0.722 & 0.750 and r'' = 0.793 & 0.746), suggesting advancement in crop stage (vegetative to flowering to fruiting stage) led to increased pest population and damage. Highest leafhopper population was noticed at flowering stage (9.24 & 9.98 leaf-1) in both the farming methods. Correlation of leafhopper with crop stages in farming systems was non-significant and positive (r’ = 0.002 and 0.041). Highest whitefly population was noticed at fruiting stage (1.63 & 2.03 leaf-1) in both the farming systems. Correlation of whitefly population with crop stages was significant (r’ = 0.710 & 0.732) implying advancement in crop growth increased whitefly population. Lastly, the highest Red spider mite population was noticed at fruiting stage (13.42 & 15.54 per 2 cm2 leaf area) in both the farming systems. Correlation of mite population with crop stages was positive and significant (r’ = 0.646 & 0.642) implying advancement in crop stage led to an increase in mite population in both the farming systems.

Crop phenology, Farming practice, Okra, Pests https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.3.2024/104-108 2024-09-17 Research Articles Srinivas, G. and Sushil Kumar

Srinivas, G.

Dept. of Entomology, NMCA, Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat (396 450), India

Sushil Kumar*

Dept. of Plant Protection, ACHF, Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat (396 450), India

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1020 1739166983 Biotica Research Today Coated Fertilizers and Their Role in Enhancing Nutrient Use Efficiency Agriculture 36-37

The rising world population has intensified the reliance on fertilizers to enhance the crop yields and ensure food security. However, the reduced nutrient efficiency (NUE) of various fertilizers and their associated ecological concerns have highlighted the scope of controlled/ slow-release fertilizers (C/SRFs). These specialised fertilizers are formulated to align nutrient release with plant demand, using diverse technologies such as physical coatings, chemical modifications and compound formulations. Coated fertilizers in particular, have garnered attention due to their ease of synthesis, manufacturing and production. Important factors of these fertilizers are rate and mechanism of release, modelling approaches, to reduce/ minimize the nutrient losses, enhance the fertilizer use efficiency and improve the soil health. Advancements in research like sulphur and zinc coated urea, have proven their potential to improve soil health, maintain ecological balance through sustainable crop production and to decrease the ecological damage caused by the chemicals.

Controlled fertilizers, Degraded polymers, Nutrient use efficiency, Slow released fertilizers NIL 2025-01-30 Popular Article Rupa Kumpatla, S.P. Pachauri and Kanika Kapkoti

Rupa Kumpatla*

Dept. of Soil Science, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

S.P. Pachauri

Dept. of Soil Science, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

Kanika Kapkoti

Dept. of Soil Science, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand (263 145), India

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1021 1739341432 Biotica Research Today Revolutionizing Fisheries by Innovative Gear Technology for Sustainability and Efficiency Agriculture 44-46

The fishing industry is changing fast thanks to new technology. Better gear is making fishing more eco-friendly, efficient and sustainable. Over the last 50 years, people have paid more attention to problems like habitat damage, overfishing and climate change. Now, the focus is on making fishing tools that help select the right fish and lessen harm to the environment. Some cool advances include artificial reefs, smart sensors, GPS and fish aggregating devices. These tools help catch the right fish while using less fuel. They also meet the growing demand for seafood that is caught in a responsible way and follows rules. Even with these improvements, there are still some challenges to getting everyone on board. The costs are high, not everyone has access to the tech and many small fisheries are hesitant to change. This study points out that using modern fishing gear can help both the environment and the economy. It shows that we can find a way to protect nature while also making money in fisheries.

Digital integration, Innovative fishing gear, Selective fishing, Sustainable fisheries NIL 2025-02-06 Popular Article Elamathi R., Jeevitha J., Jaya Naik and Prapti

Elamathi R.*

Dept. of Fisheries Engineering and Technology, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

Jeevitha J.

Dept. of Aquatic Environment Management, Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Jaya Naik

Dept. of Fisheries Engineering and Technology, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

Prapti

Dept. of Fisheries Engineering and Technology, College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, Karnataka (575 002), India

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1022 1739381158 Biotica Research Today Health and Environmental Risks of Microplastics in Shrimp Ponds Fisheries Science 47-49

Microplastics (MPs) are tiny plastic particles resulting from the degradation of larger plastics or commercial production of plastic materials, pose significant environmental and ecological threats. In shrimp farming, MPs originate from plastic equipment used in aquaculture and from external sources such as polluted water. The microplastics that are present in the shrimp pond may affects the shrimp health, which may lead to several health issues like digestive issues, abnormal swimming behaviours, oxidative stress, increase the vulnerability of disease and reproductive challenges in the shrimp. These microplastics disturb the shrimp population as they are primarily deposited in the intestinal tracts and hepatopancreas of the shrimps. The most abundant microplastic in the shrimp pond is microfibers and polyethylene. To solve this issue, healthy aquaculture techniques and initiatives to limit plastic pollution are required. Further investigation is needed to determine the long-term effects of MPs on aquatic ecosystems and identify suitable mitigation strategies.

Aquatic animal health, Microplastics, Plastic pollution, Shrimp farming NIL 2025-02-08 Popular Article Dhinesh P., Navin Kumar D., Porselvan S., Kaviarasu D. and Saravanan S.

Dhinesh P.*

Dept. of Aquatic Animal Health Management, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Navin Kumar D.

Dept. of Aquatic Animal Health Management, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Porselvan S.

Dept. of Aquatic Animal Health Management, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Kaviarasu D.

Dept. of Aquatic Animal Health Management, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Saravanan S.

Dept. of Aquatic Animal Health Management, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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1023 1739382476 Biotica Research Today Potato Price Dynamics in the Eastern Himalayan Region: A Case Study of Meghalaya Agriculture 50-52

The present study was undertaken with a view to find out how the price of potatoes changes in Meghalaya, a small state in the eastern Himalayas and is predominantly an economic activity in terms of potato farming. To analyze monthly price fluctuations during the period 2002-2023, simple yet powerful time series forecasting models, such as GARCH and ARIMA, are used instead. The forecasted values for the price of potato from October, 2023 to February, 2024 had an upward trend, implying that the farmers and policymakers would benefit in making better decisions with regard to reducing the risk and for better profit. The primary goal of this is to help policymakers create practical market supply chain solutions that will gradually stabilize the potato market. According to this study, farmers in the region deal with two significant issues: climate variability and a lack of storage facilities.

Forecasting, Potato, Time series, Trend NIL 2025-02-10 Popular Article N. Uttam Singh, Abhishek Thakur, A. Roy, Pampi Paul, Anjoo Yumnam and B.P. Singh

N. Uttam Singh

Division of Technology Assessment and Capacity Building, ICAR-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Abhishek Thakur*

Division of Technology Assessment and Capacity Building, ICAR-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

A. Roy

Division of Technology Assessment and Capacity Building, ICAR-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Pampi Paul

Division of Technology Assessment and Capacity Building, ICAR-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Anjoo Yumnam

Division of Technology Assessment and Capacity Building, ICAR-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

B.P. Singh

Division of Technology Assessment and Capacity Building, ICAR-Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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1024 1740632360 Plant Health Archives Navigating Climate Change and Its Impacts on Parasitoids, Predators and Pollinators Plant Pathology 115-122

This review considers the numerous consequences in which climate change affects insect pest population, natural enemy and crop production. Direct effects of climate induced changes on insect physiology and behaviour; and biological interactions that may influence the interactions between pests and their natural enemies. These temperature fluctuations will be expected to change diurnal activity patterns and modify interspecific interactions and hence reduce the efficacy of natural enemies. Direct impacts are as a change in temperature, precipitation and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations; indirect effects of changes in herbivore and competitor distributions; and changes to higher trophic level interactions, such as predation, parasitism and competition. Even climate change effects on natural enemies become more complicated with changes in the plant physiology by CO2, temperature and moisture. Then, extreme weather events aggravate these complexities as they further make unpredictable interactions between crops, pests, diseases and natural enemies. Such unpredictability is a problem for current crop protection strategies and agricultural yield. This review is intended to highlight the need for adaptive pest control solutions for limiting the damages related with climate change, towards a sustainable agricultural production.

Agricultural ecosystems, Climate change, Parasitoid, Plant-Insect interactions, Pollinators, Predators https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.4.2024/115-122 2024-10-13 Review Articles Sushil Kumar

Sushil Kumar*

ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat (396 450), India

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1025 1740932438 Biotica Research Today Bioinformatics in Entomology: A New Frontier of Insect Research Entomology 53-55

Recently, there is enormous growth in insect related research data due to quick advancements in biological sciences, thereby requiring computational methods for efficient storage, organisation and analysis. Bioinformatics field has made a substantial contribution to agricultural research by integrating biology, data analytics and computer science. The specialized field of bioinformatics known as "entomo-informatics" is concerned with the management and interpretation of genomic, proteomic and physiological data pertaining to insects. Data analysis and its access are made easier by using platforms such as Molecular Database on Indian Insects (MODII), i5K and the National Agricultural Bioinformatics Grid (NABG). Key applications include genome sequencing, DNA barcoding, sequence alignment, phylogenetic analysis, protein structure prediction and pest-specific insecticide design. Additionally, bioinformatics tools aid in RNA interference (RNAi)-based pest management and molecular docking studies. Entomological research can be strengthened through integration of all computational methods by enabling evolutionary studies, genetic pest control strategies and in silico toxin-protein interactions. Entomo-informatics has the potential to significantly contribute to the advancement of sustainable pest management and insect science.

Bioinformatics, Database, Entomo-informatics, Insects and pest management https://doi.org/10.54083/BRT/7.2.2025/53-55 2025-02-15 Popular Article Sujal Suhas Munj, Gouri Shankar Giri and Mandar Vijay Thakur

Sujal Suhas Munj

Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Dharwad, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

Gouri Shankar Giri

Dept. of Entomology, Tirhut College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Dholi, Bihar (843 105), India

Mandar Vijay Thakur*

Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Dharwad, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka (580 005), India

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1026 1740932964 Biotica Research Today Encapsulated Biocontrol Agents for Precision Plant Protection Entomology 56-57

Biological control of insect pests and diseases has been showing promise in sustainable agriculture long time and it is the key factor in IPM and organic farming. It has huge potential in reducing usage of chemical pesticides, which are responsible for today’s soil and ground water pollution along with hazardous pesticides residues in food, due to their indiscriminate use by the farmers. But the major concerns in the mass production and widespread usage of biocontrol agents are, their short shelf life and sensitivity to environmental conditions when they are applied in the field, which is greatly reducing their efficacy and applicability. The encapsulation method provides significant solutions to biocontrol agent application challenges through protective outer layers surrounding biological agents to protect them from field conditions which lead to enhanced biocontrol agent performance for sustainable farming.

Biological control, Encapsulation, Pest management, Sustainable agriculture NIL 2025-02-20 Popular Article Sreenath Ragiman and Meka Avanija

Sreenath Ragiman*

Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-IARI, Nagpur Hub, Maharashtra (441 108), India

Meka Avanija

College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, PJTAU, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 030), India

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1027 1741506943 Research Biotica Effect of Phosphorus in Alleviating Arsenic Toxicity in Paddy (Oryza sativa L.) under Hydroponic System Agriculture 106-112

In this experiment, effects of phosphorus (P) in reducing arsenic (As) uptake in paddy were studied under hydroponic system. The result recorded non-significance effect of As over number of leaves of rice. There was a considerable decrease in shoot height, shoot fresh weight and dry weight. Addition of 40 ppm P improved plant height, shoot fresh and dry weight, root length, root fresh weight and root dry weight, significantly. N and K content, were improved with increased P application. Highest shoot P content of 0.38% and shoot K content of 1.75% were recorded in treatment T9. A similar pattern was also found for rice root, where highest P content of 0.49% and K content of 2.86% were recorded in treatment T9. Highest shoot As of 931 μg kg-1 and root As of 1.61 mg kg-1 were found in the treatment T1. Addition of 40 ppm P significantly lowered the shoot As content to 548.67 μg kg-1 which was 69.68% decrease and 2.09 times decrease in root As was found as compared to control (treatment T1). Finally, external application of 40 ppm P has ameliorating effect over As toxicity and significantly reduce As content in rice.

Arsenic, Hydroponic, Paddy, Phosphorus, Toxicity https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.3.2024/106-112 2024-09-17 Research Articles Arghya Chattopadhyay, Anand Prakash Singh and Tridip Mondal

Arghya Chattopadhyay*

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Anand Prakash Singh

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Tridip Mondal

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

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1028 1741715280 Biotica Research Today The Equipment Utilized in Fish Mince and Surimi Processing Fisheries Science 64-67

Fish mince and surimi are valuable seafood products that enhance global food production, sustainability and economic growth. Fish mince is mechanically separated flesh, while surimi is a refined, protein-rich concentrate. Both the seafood products are processed from underutilized species, that reduces waste and maximize the efficiency of resources. The processing of such products relies on the specialized equipment like mechanical deboner, fish meat separator, fish washer, rotary screen dehydrator, washing system and decanter centrifuge along with freezing and blending technologies that ensure product quality and stability. This review highlights the role of key equipment involved in the production of fish mince and surimi production in order to improve yield, food safety and sustainability while fulfilling the growing demand of high-quality seafood globally.

Deboner, Fish meat separator, Rotary screen dehydrators, Surimi https://doi.org/10.54083/BRT/7.2.2025/64-67 2025-02-28 Popular Article Krishan Kumar Yadav, Pallavi Bhalavey, Sneha Chaudhury, Nidhi Dhansukhbhai Patel and Rishi Pal Yadav

Krishan Kumar Yadav*

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Pallavi Bhalavey

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Sneha Chaudhury

Dept. of Fisheries Resource Management, College of Fisheries, Shirgaon, Ratnagiri (DBSKKV), Maharashtra (415 629), India

Nidhi Dhansukhbhai Patel

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

Rishi Pal Yadav

Dept. of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fisheries, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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1029 1741715781 Research Biotica Effect of Drip Irrigation and Nano Zinc Oxide Biofortification on Yield Formation of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Sandy Loam Soil Agriculture 113-120

The combination of sufficient irrigation and balanced nutrition methods leads to higher crop yields of the grains. An experiment was performed to assess the impact of several drip irrigation schedules, viz., DI1: once-in-2 days, DI2: once-in-3 days, DI3: once-in-4 days and DI4: surface flooding method (farmers' practice), alongside agronomic biofortification of zinc, viz., Zn0: no zinc treatment, Zn1: soil application of zinc sulphate at 20 kg ha-1, Zn2: foliar application of nano zinc oxide at 40 ppm, Zn3: seed priming with zinc oxide at 40 ppm and Zn4: seed coating with nano zinc oxide at 40 ppm on yield-contributing parameters and grain production of maize during the summer seasons of 2022 and 2023 at the Agricultural Farm, Palli Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati, West Bengal. The heightened frequency of drip irrigation programs markedly enhanced yield components and elevated maize grain yield. Biofortification of nano zinc oxide as seed coating enhanced yield parameters and grain yield. Correlation studies pointed out that grain numbers row-1, length of cob, girth of cob, weight of cob and seed weight cob-1 were highly significant and positively correlated with grain yield except number of grains-rows cob-1. Results also revealed that a highly positive and significant correlation was obtained between grain yield with seed weight cob-1 (0.744*** and 0.867***) during 2022 as well as 2023. It is rational to conclude that number of grains row-1, cob length, cob weight and seed weight cob-1 are the major contributors towards grain yield since these characters had high positive correlation.

Drip irrigation, ZnO Biofortification, Correlation, Maize, Yield components https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.3.2024/113-120 2024-09-24 Research Articles Kalipada Pramanik, Sk Naim Aktar, Digvijay Singh Dhakre and Swarnali Bhattacharya

Kalipada Pramanik*

Dept. of Agronomy, Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal (731 236), India

Sk Naim Aktar

Dept. of Agronomy, Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal (731 236), India

Digvijay Singh Dhakre

Dept. of Agricultural Statistics, Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal (731 236), India

Swarnali Bhattacharya

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal (731 236), India

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1030 1741717063 Research Biotica Advancing Animal Husbandry Practices through Front Line Demonstrations for Improved Livestock and Fodder Management in Dharmapuri District Livestock Management 121-124

Krishi Vigyan Kendra provides the rural farmers with an opportunity to upgrade their knowledge in the area of agriculture and allied sectors. KVKs implement Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) which are implementations of new technologies on the farmers’ fields with advisory support. In animal sciences, FLDs were on infertility management, clean milk production and high nutrition, long duration fodder crop varieties. These field level demonstrations enable scientists to obtain real time data to further improve the technologies to be used in future research and extension programs. KVK Dharmapuri implemented FLDs in animal sciences from 2014-2024. The implementation of the new technologies in nutrition management, disease prevention and new fodder crop varieties led to the following changes. Milk yield increased from 6 to 9 liters day-1, weight gain in sheep and goats also enhanced from 4 to 6 kg month-1 and lamb death rate improved from 75% to 90%. Fodder production also increased from 70 to 200 tons acre-1, this is 185% improvement as compared to the traditional varieties. The income of the farmers from livestock enterprises increased from Rs. 72,000.00 to Rs. 92,400.00, which is 28% more than that of the traditional practices. The results of this study show that the FLDs in animal sciences developed in Dharmapuri have positively affected the living standard, production of forages and income from livestock production.

Adoption, Extension, Fodder, Livestock, Productivity, Sustainability https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.3.2024/121-124 2024-09-28 Short Communication Thangadurai, R. and Vennila, M.A.

Thangadurai, R.*

ICAR-TNAU-KVK, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

Vennila, M.A.

ICAR-TNAU-KVK, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (636 809), India

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1031 1742014995 Biotica Research Today Evolving Farming Practices in India: Adapting to Modern Demands Agriculture 78-80

Globally, increasing population, climate change, disasters and lifestyle changes pushes the development of different types of farming system and their adoption on large scale for the fulfilment of food requirement. These farming systems such as organic, conventional, conservation, natural and regenerative farming are unique and contrast with each other in their input uses and management practices. Organic farming focused on the management of ecosystem without hampering its properties by avoiding the application of synthetic chemicals whereas traditional farming emphasises subsistence utilising natural resources. Conventional farming highly depended on the agro-chemicals and farm machineries and not much taking care of soil health and biodiversity. In conservation farming, retention of crop residues is prioritised for maintaining the soil fertility. The regenerative agriculture emphasises the ideas of plant diversity, soil cover and less chemical use for restoring soil health and improving the ecosystem services. Natural farming based the microbial formulation and on-farm resources for the sustainable production for the food security.

Farming system, Natural farming, Organic inputs, Regenerative agriculture NIL 2025-03-10 Popular Article B.S. Anusha, Arti Bhatia and Sandeep Kumar

B.S. Anusha

Division of Environmental Sciences, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Arti Bhatia*

Division of Environmental Sciences, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Sandeep Kumar

Division of Environmental Sciences, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

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1032 1742794694 Biotica Research Today Plant Gene Editing Approaches in Crop Wild Relatives for De Novo Domestication Agriculture 81-82

The crop wild relatives (CWR) have been domesticated and were used for the conventional crop breeding programme as a source of genes tolerant to biotic and abiotic stress. With the advancement of modern biotechnological tools the genes of CWR were available in various public databases. This knowledge can be utilized for developing new cultivars from CWR by utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The CRISPR/Cas9 technology has been effectively applied in some of the CWR viz. Solanum pimpinellifolium, ground cherry (Physalis pruinosa), green millet Setaria viridis, Oryza glaberrima (Kabre), Solanum peruvianum, O. alta, Sea barleygrass (Hordeum marinum) for modifying various agronomically important traits. In this context here we discuss about the application of genome editing technologies in different CWRs and how it can be utilized for the de novo domestication of CWR.

CRISPR-Cas9, Crop wild relatives, De novo, Wild NIL 2025-03-13 Popular Article B.G. Sangeetha, T. Makeshkumar, E.R. Harish, C. Pradeepika and R. Arutselvan

B.G. Sangeetha*

Division of Crop Protection, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Sreekariyam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (605 017), India

T. Makeshkumar

Division of Crop Protection, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Sreekariyam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (605 017), India

E.R. Harish

Division of Crop Protection, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Sreekariyam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (605 017), India

C. Pradeepika

Section of Crop Utilization, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Sreekariyam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (605 017), India

R. Arutselvan

Division of Crop Protection, ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Sreekariyam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (605 017), India

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1033 1742795288 Biotica Research Today Soil Microbial Diversity: The Hidden Key to Sustainable Agriculture Agriculture 83-85

Soil microbial diversity refers to the variety of significant microorganisms existing within a natural habitat or community. This soil microbiome has a highly diverse microbial population in which large proportions remain unstudied. Soil-dwelling microorganisms play a pivotal role in promoting plant health and soil fertility. Various range of approaches used to quantify biological diversity are known as diversity indices. Deciphering the structural dynamics of soil microbiota is necessary for better quantification. This review summarizes the studies of soil microbial communities emphasizing on diversity indices and techniques fostering agricultural resilience.

Agriculture, Diversity indices, Environment, Soil microbial diversity NIL 2025-03-18 Popular Article Yuvarajan S., Anu Rajan S., Chitra N. and Soumya V.I.

Yuvarajan S.*

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Anu Rajan S.

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Chitra N.

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

Soumya V.I.

Dept. of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (695 522), India

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1034 1743160513 Biotica Research Today Mainstreaming the Laggards- An Approach Agriculture 983-984

In the diffusion of Innovation theory, the last group which adopts an innovation is the laggards which account approximately 16% of population of the society. It consists largely of elders, and those with low socioeconomic status. Laggards believe mostly friends and neighbors as information sources, dislike change, and accept new things only when forced to. The innovators, early adopters and early majority are the population who adopts a change or new idea without any reluctance so we need to think about what we will do about our laggards – in the past we could often get away by ignoring them – but nowadays some systems may only work if everyone uses it (like use of apps- Arogyasetu) and non-use is not an option. Mainstreaming the laggards is important for the overall development of the community. Certain approaches can be followed for streamlining the laggards at par with the late majority will be a great success for the extension functionaries/ sociologists.

Approaches, Innovation, Laggards, Mainstreaming NIL 2020-10-02 Popular Article Mita Meher

Mita Meher*

Dept. of Extension Education, School of Agriculture, GIET University, Gunupur, Rayagada, Odisha (765 022), India

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1035 1743163194 Biotica Research Today Impact of India’s New Farm Act, 2020 on Farmers and Markets Agriculture 985-987

At the end of September 2020, the Farmer's Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020, and the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020 were approved and notified as legislation. The primary provisions of the proposed legislation are intended to assist small and marginal farmers, who have no means of either negotiating for a better price for their produce or investing in technology in order to increase farm productivity. The Agri market bill seeks to allow farmers to sell their produce to whoever they want outside 'mandis'. Even at their farm gates, everyone may purchase their produce. Although 'commission agents' of the 'mandis' and states could lose 'commissions' and 'mandi fees' respectively (the main reasons for the protests), by competition and cost-cutting on transport, farmers will get better prices by this law.

Act, 2020, Agriculture, Farm bill, Farmer NIL 2020-10-04 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Kailash Chandra Samal and Dibakar Behera

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Dibakar Behera

Dept. of Education, Mahima Mahavidyalaya, Joranda, Odisha (759 014), India

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1036 1743165475 Biotica Research Today Custom Hiring Centre (CHC) for Farm Operations: Boon for Indian Farmers Agriculture 988-989

Farm equipment and machines that can be used for conducting a wide range of agricultural operations such as land development, seed bed preparation, sowing, planting, weeding, inter-cultivation, plant protection, harvesting and threshing. These machineries are used for the production of crops and agricultural livestock. The Indian agriculture is multidimensional perspective. On one hand it includes highly mechanized farms like Punjab, Haryana and Western Uttar Pradesh and on other, it is characterized by small fragmented land holding, hill farming, shifting cultivation which in general managed through animate source of energy, Mechanization brings in timeliness and precision to agricultural operations, greater field coverage over a short period, cost-effectiveness, efficiency in use of resources and applied inputs, conservation of available soil moisture under stress conditions and provision of adequate drainage of excess rain and floodwaters.

Custom Hiring Centre, Farm operations, Mechanization, Small and Marginal farmers NIL 2020-10-04 Popular Article Kalay Khan and Yogesh Pandey

Kalay Khan*

College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, SKUAST-K, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (190 025), India

Yogesh Pandey

College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, SKUAST-K, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (190 025), India

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1037 1743168734 Biotica Research Today Waste to Wealth from Orchids Agriculture 992-995

Effective waste management has become a national priority of Swachh Bharat Mission which can bring back useless discarded waste products into economic use and reduces pressure induced by waste on the environment, creates opportunities for generation of income and employment and improves quality of life. In orchids, unwanted backbulbs or already flowered bulbs can be utilized as sources for generation of planting materials, unmarketable spikes and florets of different orchid species and hybrids for drying and dried leaves are used for making durable and attractive mattresses and baskets.

Backbulbs, Dry flowers, Dry leaves, Orchids NIL 2020-10-07 Popular Article L.C. De, Ajay Bhusal and R.C. Gurung

L. C. De

ICAR- National Research Centre for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

Ajay Bhusal

ICAR- National Research Centre for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

R. C. Gurung

ICAR- National Research Centre for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim (737 106), India

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1038 1743172501 Biotica Research Today Guava Root Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne enterolobii) - A Menace in Guava Cultivation Agriculture 996-998

Meloidogyne enterolobii is an emerging species of root-knot nematode, is currently considered to be one of the most damaging root-knot nematode species in many countries. Guava root-knot nematode is very similar to our common root-knot nematode in the type of damage it causes and its host range and morphology. The nematodes can cause severe damage to plants, reducing yields and causing early death. Stunting, yellowing of plant foliage and early wilting during drought are also characteristic symptoms of nematodes. Nematicides are routinely used to manage root-knot nematodes in guava. However, with the ban of effective nematicides from the market owing to concerns about risks to human health and the environment, safe and effective alternative control measures are highly sought. The concept of integrated nematode management is targeted at prevention and population reduction of plant parasitic nematodes with the development of resistant varieties of fruit plants.

Biocontrol, Guava, Meloidogyne enterolobii, Nematicides NIL 2020-10-07 Popular Article S. Prabhu, R. Poorniammal, C. Muthiah and J. Sandeep Kumar

S. Prabhu*

Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625604), India

R. Poorniammal

Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625604), India

C. Muthiah

Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625604), India

J. Sandeep Kumar

Horticultural College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625604), India

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1039 1743173610 Biotica Research Today Micropropagation in Bamboo - An Overview Agriculture 999-1002

The common term used for a diverse community (1250 species) of large woody grasses, ranging in height from 10 cm to 40 m, is bamboo. Bamboo may have potential as a bioenergy or fibre crop for niche markets, already in regular use by about 2.5 billion people, mainly for fibre and food in Asia, although some reports of its high productivity seem to be exaggerated. For bamboo, different propagation techniques are available, such as seed propagation, clump division, rhizome and culm cuttings. These are largely ineffective and inefficient for mass scale propagation and the only feasible approach is micropropagation. This study focuses on various Bamboo micropropagation techniques. Further research on propagation techniques, establishment and stand management is also required, and it is important to improve mechanised harvesting.

Bamboo, in vitro, Micropropagation, Tissue culture NIL 2020-10-09 Popular Article Barsha Tripathy, M. Sai. Sindhu, Sandeep Rout, Ajay Kumar Prusty and Lipsa Dash

Barsha Tripathy

M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha (761 211), India

M. Sai. Sindhu

M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha (761 211), India

Sandeep Rout*

Faculty of Agriculture, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

Ajay Kumar Prusty

M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha (761 211), India

Lipsa Dash

M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha (761 211), India

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1040 1743213092 Biotica Research Today Organic Farming - Sustainable Agriculture Development Agriculture 1006-1009

Organic farming has mushroomed drastically in importance and influence worldwide from its modest beginnings in the first half of the last century. Organic farming is production of food and livestock without the use of herbicides, pesticides, weedicides, fertilizers or genetically modified organism and use natural resources such as manure and compost. Organic farming through sustainable agriculture meets not only the food requirements of present generation in an environment friendly way but also the requirements of future generations and maintains our environment. Organic farming provides macronutrients and micronutrients to the plants and also improves physical, chemical and biological characteristics of the soil. Organic farming should be safer for the sustainable agriculture at a time when advanced technologies are still costly and have to be proved safe for long-term development. Organic farming in terms of usage, which increase the nutrient of the soil, usage of genetically modified seeds for better crop production.

Agriculture, Organic Farming, Sustainable Development, Environment Friendly NIL 2020-10-09 Popular Article K. Bhavana, Geeta Mohan, Manjeet Kaur and O. P. Sharma

K. Bhavana

Dept. of Agriculture, Jagannath University, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 022), India

Geeta Mohan*

Dept. of Agriculture, Jagannath University, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 022), India

Manjeet Kaur

Dept. of Agriculture, Jagannath University, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 022), India

O. P. Sharma

Dept. of Agriculture, Jagannath University, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 022), India

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1041 1743213676 Biotica Research Today IDIPM Schedule: Key to Manage the Bacterial Blight Disease in Pomegranate Agriculture 1010-1015

The ICAR-National Research Centre on Pomegranate, Solapur formulated ‘Integrated disease and insect-pest management (IDIPM) schedule comprising of (i) avoiding rainy season crop for 2 years, (ii) balanced plant nutrition, (iii) orchard sanitation, (iv) use of bactericides with compatible fungicides and insecticides and (v) bio-formulations and elicitor molecules that trigger systemic acquired resistance in plants for mitigating the losses caused by bacterial blight disease in pomegranate through expert consultation. The schedule was validated in farmers’ orchards spanning over diverse agro-eco-regions in the state of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Bacterial blight was managed successfully (86.04% reduction) with conspicuous improvement in yield (yield increased up to 79.5%). This resulted in average cost-benefit ratio of 1:4.19 and reduction in number of chemical sprays. The IDIPM schedule has become the life line of pomegranate growers. The reproducibility of the technology can be evidenced from consistent increase in national pomegranate productivity ranging from to 6.9 t ha-1 in the year 2011-12 to 11.67 t ha-1 in the year 2016-17 (69.13% increase).

Bactericides, Balanced plant nutrition, Bio-formulations, Orchard sanitation NIL 2020-10-10 Success story Ashis Maity and Jyotsana Sharma

Ashis Maity*

ICAR-National Research Centre on Pomegranate, Kegaon, Solapur, Maharashtra (412 255), India

Jyotsana Sharma

ICAR-National Research Centre on Pomegranate, Kegaon, Solapur, Maharashtra (412 255), India

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1042 1743214245 Biotica Research Today Implications of Stem Cell Therapy in Cancer Treatment Agriculture 1016-1018

Cancer is a complex heterogeneous illness that posses particular barriers to its management. The survival of cancer patients increased dramatically, mostly due to multidisciplinary treatment and advanced chemotherapy. Despite recent advancements, many patients with solid tumors continue to undergo recurrence following adjuvant therapy, and their survival remains poor when their cancer is no longer limited to their lungs, as well as when advanced cancer is rarely cured. Over the years, the series of stem cell biology results has produced new possible methods through its unusual biological behaviour, including self-renewal, lateral migration, differentiation and modulatory effects on other cells, to cure cancer patients. In this article, we discuss the specific biological behaviour possessed by different types of stem cells along with the mechanisms associated with various stem cells for cancer care. We also emphasize on the obstacles encountered, along with the risk factors associated with them.

Cancer, Metastasis, Stem cells, Transplant NIL 2020-10-11 Popular Article Saswati Das and Debanjana Saha

Saswati Das*

Dept. of Biotechnology, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752050), India

Debanjana Saha

Dept. of Biotechnology, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (752050), India

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1043 1743214775 Biotica Research Today Role of Monsoon in Indian Agriculture Agriculture 1019-1021

The Indian economy is heavily dependent on Indian agriculture and the lifestyle of Indian farmer definitely depends on the monsoon rains. 70 percent of the Indian mass depends on farming system, either directly and indirectly. In addition, the agricultural sector in our country contributes to around 18 percent of the GDP. A significant segment of the nation's harvest zone is very reliant on Monsoon downpours, as they are not furnished with strategies for manual water system. Essentially, the Indian economy increases because of good Monsoon downpours in the nation. Then again, powerless Monsoon downpours bring about harvest disappointment, which influences the economy in a negative way because of lower creation. Later on, this converts into value rise, low modern yield, and different issues. More than everything else, the disappointment of Monsoon huge affects the life of the Indian rancher. Yield disappointment or insufficient precipitation is one main explanation behind mass rancher suicides the nation over.

GDP, Indian economy, Monsoon downpours, Yield NIL 2020-10-12 Popular Article Monika Karnawat, S.K. Trivedi, Rohitashv Nagar and Deepak Nagar

Monika Karnawat*

Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

S. K. Trivedi

Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

Rohitashv Nagar

Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

Deepak Nagar

Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota, Rajasthan (324 005), India

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1044 1743215399 Biotica Research Today Natural Herbs as an Alternative Treatment against Fish Diseases Agriculture 1022-1025

Disease is one of the major constraints to sustainable fish production which can cause significant economic loss. Antimicrobials and other veterinary drugs are commonly used in aquaculture to prevent or treat disease outbreaks. However, continuous use of aquaculture drugs may lead to cause negative environmental impact from farms to aquatic organisms. As an alternative to conventional methods many plant-derived compounds such as essential oils, plant extracts have been used as an efficient treatment to control parasites in aquaculture systems. The most important herbal species viz. Allium sativum (Garlic), Curcuma longa (Turmeric), Zingiber officinale (Ginger), Azadirachta indica (Neem), Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), Allium cepa (Onion) are available in India used to treat various diseases in aquaculture industry.

Diseases, Drugs, Herbs, Treatment NIL 2020-10-12 Popular Article S. Mariappan, R. Velmurugan and B. Ahilan

S. Mariappan*

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College & Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thiruvallur, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

R. Velmurugan

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College & Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thiruvallur, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

B. Ahilan

Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College & Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thiruvallur, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

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1045 1743243228 Biotica Research Today Peri-Urban Agriculture – The Need of the Hour Agriculture 1029-1030

In the beginning, the planners of our country were concerned much about the planning of urban rather than rural landscapes. With the century turning, planners regulated to push cultivation away from settlements in order to reduce waste management issues caused by farming and to avoid zoonotic diseases. Job creation was considered important than resource management. Then came the issues of coexistence, resource mismanagement, municipal waste management and food security. In spite of the policies in the past which pushed the farms away from residential areas, the need arose to perform farming in the urban fringes, which is called peri-urban agriculture. Waste management, food supply, nutritional security all turned to be question mark. Peri-urban agriculture was found to be a better answer for all those questions.

Food supply, Nutritional security, Peri-urban Agriculture, Waste management NIL 2020-10-18 Popular Article Sowmya S.

Sowmya S.*

Dept. of Agricultural and Rural Management, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1046 1743312567 Biotica Research Today Citrus Decline in Coorg Mandarin: Soil and Nutrient Management Aspects Agriculture 1031-1033

Citrus decline is a major problem of Citriculture in India and is caused by combined effects of many biotic and abiotic factors. Coorg mandarin is an ecotype grown in Southern India mainly Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Area and production of Coorg mandarin are drastically come-down during the last three decades due to citrus decline. Sub-optimal crop management, unavailability of quality planting materials, nutrient deficiencies, poor soil, water, nutrient and drainage management, pest and disease incidences are major reasons for citrus decline. Coorg mandarin is not given much attention as cultivated along with coffee and pepper plantations which resulted in reduction of average yield of a plant from 50 kg to less than 10 kg. This article mainly focuses on soil and nutrient related constraints in Coorg mandarin and suitable corrective measures to improve plant and soil health of Coorg mandarin orchards for sustaining the production.

Citrus decline, Coorg mandarin, Nutrient deficiency, Soil management NIL 2020-10-19 Popular Article Rajendiran S. and Chandrakant M. Awachare

Rajendiran S.*

Central Horticultural Experiment Station (CHES), ICAR-IIHR, Chettalli, Kodagu, Karnataka (571 248), India

Chandrakant M. Awachare

Central Horticultural Experiment Station (CHES), ICAR-IIHR, Chettalli, Kodagu, Karnataka (571 248), India

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1047 1743423577 Research Biotica Variability Studies in Half Sib Progenies of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) var. Arka Kiran for Growth, Yield and Quality Attributes Agriculture 125-143

India is known for growing fruit crops that are widely valued in the market. In particular, red pulp varieties of guava tend to have a presence of seeds which limits their overall popularity, among consumers. Therefore, the aim of the current research is to find genotypes having deep red or pink coloured pulp and low seed number. The 48 progenies showed range of variability in terms of plant growth, yield traits and quality traits. Progenies viz., PG 15-9 (2.10 m), PG 1-7 and PG 35-1 (2.16 m) have showed low tree height. Fruit yield was highly significant in PG 24-6 (22.45 kg tree-1). Number of seeds fruit-1 of progenies underlined varied between 111.22 and 630.95. Compared with PG 1-7 with its parent Arka Kiran whose fruits were of almost equal weight, PG 1-7 proved to be having less number of seeds (341.52 seeds fruit-1) compared to Arka Kiran (428.98 seeds fruit-1). With regards to biochemical constituents of fruit, maximum TSS and total sugar content were seen in progeny, PG 1-7 (12.6 °Brix; 6.72%). Among progenies, maximum ascorbic acid content was seen in PG 28-1 (220.42 mg/ 100 g), followed by PG 1-7 (203.73 mg/ 100 g). In short, on the basis of examination of numerous physico-chemical traits of half-sibling progenies of guava var. Arka Kiran, progeny PG 1-7 proved to be the superior one in terms of maximal intensity of colour of fruit pulp, fruit quality, seed traits and yield, in addition to its organoleptic qualities.

Biochemical parameters, Evaluation, Morpho-physiological attributes, Organoleptic qualities, Variability https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.4.2024/125-143 2024-10-15 Research Articles Sanjana U. and M. Kavino

Sanjana U.*

Dept. of Fruit Science, HC&RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. Kavino

Dept. of Fruit Science, HC&RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1048 1743810723 Biotica Research Today Apiculture: History and Scope Agriculture 1036-1039

Man has been aware of honey bees since ages as reflected from depictions and inscriptions made around 10,000 years ago. North America and Egypt were the early starters in Bee-keeping. Discovery on the phenomenon of division of labor, life cycle and rearing techniques in different countries leads to the successful domestication. Honey bees gain importance by pollination of flowering plants and it has been estimated that global value of pollination is around 153 billion dollars annually. Considering the economics, an income to the tune of Rs. 3,500.00 - 7,000.00 per hive can be achieved annually. At present India has got 2.0 million bee colonies but has the potential to keep around 120 million bee colonies that can provide employment to 12 million families.Man has been aware of honey bees since ages as reflected from depictions and inscriptions made around 10,000 years ago. North America and Egypt were the early starters in Bee-keeping. Discovery on the phenomenon of division of labor, life cycle and rearing techniques in different countries leads to the successful domestication. Honey bees gain importance by pollination of flowering plants and it has been estimated that global value of pollination is around 153 billion dollars annually. Considering the economics, an income to the tune of Rs. 3,500.00 - 7,000.00 per hive can be achieved annually. At present India has got 2.0 million bee colonies but has the potential to keep around 120 million bee colonies that can provide employment to 12 million families.

Apiculture, Bee colonies, Hive products, Pollination NIL 2020-10-22 Popular Article Praduman Bhatnagar, Mehar Chand, Prem Lata, Fateh Singh and Sagar Rawal

Praduman Bhatnagar*

Krishi Vigyan Kerndra, Kurukshetra, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (CCSHAU), Haryana (136118), India

Mehar Chand

Krishi Vigyan Kerndra, Kurukshetra, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (CCSHAU), Haryana (136118), India

Prem Lata

Krishi Vigyan Kerndra, Kurukshetra, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (CCSHAU), Haryana (136118), India

Fateh Singh

Krishi Vigyan Kerndra, Kurukshetra, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (CCSHAU), Haryana (136118), India

Sagar Rawal

Dept of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (CCSHAU), Hisar, Haryana (125 004), India

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1049 1743869364 Biotica Research Today Soil Test Methods App: An Instant Guide to Soil Testing Agriculture 1040-1042

Soil testing is central to the nutrient management planning for economically profitable and ecologically sustainable crop production. Of late, it has assumed unprecedented importance in view of the growing awareness about soil health card in Indian agriculture. Indiscriminate use of fertilisers based on their blanket recommendations or without knowing the native availability of plant nutrients in soil is of little importance in modern agriculture which not only aims at improving crop productivity but also at maintaining the fertility status of soil for sustained crop production. Further, reliability of the ‘soil test based nutrient recommendations’ depends largely on precision of soil testing, which necessitates proper understanding and knowledge of soil test methods for different soil parameters commonly used in preparation of soil health card and making nutrient recommendations. We developed an android based mobile application “Soil Test Methods” as an instant guide to soil testing for students, researchers and soil test personnel. It can be downloaded from Google play store for free. Operational aspect of the app has been described in this article.

Mobile application, Soil fertility, Soil health card, Soil Testing NIL 2020-10-22 Popular Article Manoj Kumar, K. K. Rao, Rachana Dubey and Surajit Mondal

Manoj Kumar*

ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

K. K. Rao

ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Rachana Dubey

ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

Surajit Mondal

ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar (800 014), India

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1050 1743869980 Biotica Research Today Brucellosis: An Infectious Outbreak in China and New Threat to Civilization after COVID-19 Agriculture 1043-1045

Brucellosis, otherwise called “Undulant fever”, “Mediterranean fever” or “Malta fever” is a disease caused by a group of bacteria from the genus Brucella. These bacteria can infect both humans and animals and spreads in humans when people eat contaminated food, raw meat and unpasteurized milk. It affects people of all ages and both sexes. The bacteria can also be spread through the air or in contact with an open wound. The incubation period of the disease is usually 2–4 weeks. The disease causes flu-like symptoms, including fever, headaches, muscle pain, weakness, malaise and weight loss. Some symptoms can become chronic with subsiding over time. Treatment options include doxycycline 100 mg twice a day for 45 days, plus streptomycin 1 g daily for 15 days. The prevention of human infection is primarily based on raising awareness, food-safety measures, occupational hygiene and laboratory safety.

Brucella, Brucellosis, Climate change, Zoonosis NIL 2020-10-22 Popular Article Gyanisha Nayak, Chetan Panda and Kailash Chandra Samal

Gyanisha Nayak*

Dept. of Plant Breeding & Genetics, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Surya Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Chetan Panda

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Surya Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Surya Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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1051 1743870697 Biotica Research Today Tractor Mounted hydraulic Ladder for Mango Fruit Harvesting Agriculture 1046-1048

A tractor-mounted hydraulic operated ladder developed to reduce the harvesting/ pruning costs, increase the harvesting/ pruning efficiency and enhances the overall productivity of mango orchards. The hydraulic ladder was evaluated in the actual field condition and it was observed that it can be rotated from 0 to 360 degree both in clockwise and anticlockwise direction so that minimum 4 mango trees can be covered by simply operating the directional valve. The hydraulic ladder is suitable for harvesting of mango upto 12 m, pruning of tree up to 12 m height comfortably and spraying over the tree canopy up to a height of 12 m. The cost of operation of the hydraulic ladder (Inclusive of tractor) for harvesting mango is Rs. 4,240.00 /day.

Fruit harvesting, Hydraulic ladder, Mango orchard, Tractor mounted NIL 2020-10-22 Popular Article R. Thiyagarajan, B. Suthakar and A. Tajuddin

R. Thiyagarajan*

Dept. of Farm Machinery & Power Engineering, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

B. Suthakar

Dept. of Farm Machinery & Power Engineering, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

A. Tajuddin

Dept. of Farm Machinery & Power Engineering, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1052 1743875569 Biotica Research Today One Inch Soil Boost Farmer’s Income Agriculture 1052- 1054

Proper marketing of agricultural produce is always beneficial for the farmers. But it comes with several challenges; a continuous increase in the cost of cultivation with a tremendous fluctuation in market price is one of the biggest reasons that adversely affect the income of the farmers. To overcome this issue, a pronged approach of modifying the cropping system as well as the quality of agricultural produces (Multi-storey cropping system + Organic farming) can be considered. By practicing a Multi-storey cropping system and Organic farming, farm productivity can be enhanced with a limited area by efficient utilization of available natural resources such as air, water, light, space, and nutrients. The introduction of the multi-storied cropping system in organic farming ensures the best combination of crop-tree intercropping with the production of healthy crops that enables farmers to earn regular income throughout the year, ultimately addresses the price fluctuation in the market.

Agricultural marketing, Multi-storey cropping system, Multiple cropping, Organic farming NIL 2020-10-23 Popular Article Ankit Kumar Keshari and Debasish Pattnaik

Ankit Kumar Keshari

Faculty of Agriculture, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha (754 006), India

Debasish Pattnaik*

Dept. of Plant Physiology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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1053 1743877133 Biotica Research Today Biochar – A Valuable Soil Amendment Agriculture 1058-1060

Biochar is charred organic matter intended for use as a soil amendment. Biochar is produced by a thermochemical decomposition process called pyrolysis, which consists of heating biomass at a high temperature (» 400-8000 °C) in a limited oxygen environment. Biochar can be an important tool to increase food security and cropland diversity in areas with severely depleted soils, scarce organic resources, and inadequate water and chemical fertilizer supplies. Biochar also improves water quality and quantity by increasing soil retention of nutrients and agrochemicals for plant and crop utilization. Biochar helps to reclaim degraded soils. The water retention capacity of the biochar compost makes it ideal for conservation and the use of the scarce water. Biochar helps to prevent fertilizer runoff and leaching, allowing the use of less fertilizer and diminishing agricultural pollution to the surrounding environment.

Biochar, Pyrolisis, Mycorrhizal fungi, Soil amendment NIL 2020-10-27 Popular Article P. Christy Nirmala Mary, R. Murugaragavan, J. Ramachandran, R. Shanmugasundaram and S. Karpagam

P. Christy Nirmala Mary*

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

R. Murugaragavan

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

R. Shanmugasundaram

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

S. Karpagam

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

J. Ramachandran

Dept. of Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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1054 1743882737 Biotica Research Today Modulation of Plant Immunity by Circadian Rhythm Agriculture 1063-1064

Almost all living organism on Earth have evolved the ability to assimilate environmental and internal signals to determine time and accordingly adjust their behaviour, metabolism and physiology. This evolved ability of the organisms to judge time is based on the concept of biological rhythm or circadian rhythm or circadian clock which is an endogenous time keeper and plays crucial role for multiple biological processes in many organisms. Plants also activate time dependent defence with various strategies to forestall daily attacks of pathogens and pests and to modulate responses to specific invaders in a time of day dependent manner. Likewise, pathogen also functions in a clock dependent manner to create infection and suppress the host defence. A better understanding of the role of circadian clock in plants immunity will help in regulating the management strategies.

logical clock, Circadian rhythm, Defence, Plants NIL 2020-10-28 Popular Article Sneha R. Patil and C. Senthilraja

Sneha R. Patil*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, College of Agricultural Technology, Theni, Tamil Nadu (625 562), India

C. Senthilraja

Dept. of Plant Protection, Horticulture College and Research Institute, TNAU, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

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1055 1743883213 Biotica Research Today Generalization of Multi-Level Programming Technique - A Brief Description Agriculture 1065-1067

The separation of policy problems into two components has long been accepted as a rational approach. Multilevel programming is applicable in those cases in which a mathematical programming model describes the implicit behavioral set. It encompasses multiple levels of optimization, multilevel programming constitute a generalization of mathematical programming. The algorithm handles two objective functions simultaneous in sequence of steps similar to those used in simplex algorithm.

Mathematical Programming, Multilevel Programming, Optimization, Simplex Algorithm NIL 2020-10-28 Popular Article R. Vasanthi, B. Sivasankari and R. Pangayar Selvi

R. Vasanthi*

Dept. of Physical Sciences & IT, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

B. Sivasankari

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

R. Pangayar Selvi

Dept. of Social Sciences, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam, Tamil Nadu (628 252), India

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1056 1743883827 Biotica Research Today Biology and Fishery of Sperata aor: A Commercially Important Catfish Agriculture 1068-1069

Sperata aor is an indigenous and freshwater fish species which is popularly known as “Aar fish”. It is generally distributed in riverine condition in different parts of country. It contributes major catch in middle and lower stretches of ganga river mostly during the late winter and early summer. It is carnivores in nature. The present article focuses on providing an overview of biology such as food & feeding habit, sexual dimorphism, breeding period and fishery of S. aor.

Biology, Catfish, Fishery, Sperata aor NIL 2020-10-28 Popular Article A. Singh

A. Singh

Dept. of Zoology, Tripura University (A Central University), Suryamaninagar, Tripura (799 022), India

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1057 1743884240 Biotica Research Today Saline Soil Reclamation Agriculture 1070-1072

The distinguishing characteristic of saline soils contains sufficient neutral soluble salts to adversely affect the growth of most of the crop plants. Saline soils are those which have an electrical conductivity of more than 4 dS/m at 25 °C. Different ways of saline soil reclamation practices were followed to alleviate the saline soil problem and the practices encompasses namely, scraping, flushing and leaching, agronomic practices, crop rotation, selected crop cultivation, different irrigation practices, drainage  of soil, gypsum application and biological methods of saline soil removal by applying manures, green manures and bulky organic manures, etc.

Green manures, Leaching, Saline soil, Scrapping NIL 2020-10-28 Popular Article P. Christy Nirmala Mary, R. Murugaragavan, J. Ramachandran, R. Shanmugasundaram, S. Karpagam and S. S. Rakesh

P. Christy Nirmala Mary*

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

R. Murugaragavan

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

J. Ramachandran

Dept. of Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

R. Shanmugasundaram

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

S. Karpagam

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

S. S. Rakesh

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1058 1743884986 Biotica Research Today Tazi (Sight Hounds): A Lesser Known Canine Germplasm Agriculture 1073-1074

Since last many decades there has been a raging desire to keep western breeds of dogs as pets. This sentiment has led to utter neglect of Indian breeds of dogs. Recently three Indian dogs’ germplasm have been recognized as breeds viz., Rajapalayam, Mudhal Hound and Chippiparai. India is home to many sight hound type breeds of dogs, these dogs are acclimatized to tropical climate of Indian subcontinent. They needs a good amount of exercise and require less grooming. These breeds of dog have amazing sight that helps them to chase away rabbits or any other small animals.

Indian breeds of dogs, Pedigreed, Sight hound, Tazi NIL 2020-10-28 Popular Article Ahlawat, A. R. and Sharma, H. A.

Ahlawat, A. R.*

Dept. of Animal Genetics & Breeding, College of Veterinary Science & A. H., Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat (362 001), India

Sharma, H. A.

Veterinary Dispensary, Dudhai, Anjar, Kutch, Gujarat (370 020), India

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1059 1743899667 Biotica Research Today Advanced Production Technology of Lettuce Agriculture 1078-1079

Lettuce is an annual plant belongs to the family, Asteraceae. It is most often grown as a leaf vegetable, but sometimes for its stem and seeds. Lettuce is most often used for salads, although it is also seen in other kinds of food, such as soups, sandwiches and wraps. Lettuce is a rich source of vitamin K and vitamin A, and a moderate source of folate and iron. It is moderately salt tolerant crop. The detailed cultivation practice of lettuce is discussed in this paper.

Cultivation practices, Lettuce, Post harvest, Salad crop NIL 2020-10-29 Popular Article A. Sankari, K. Divya and K. Kayalvizhi

A. Sankari*

Dept. of Vegetable crops, HC & RI, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

K. Divya

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, FC & RI, Mettupalayam, Tamil Nadu (641 301), India

K. Kayalvizhi

Dept. of Horticulture, Institute of Agriculture, Kumulur, Tamil Nadu (621 712), India

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1060 1743901583 Biotica Research Today Bt Brinjal in India: Fears, Myths and Facts Agriculture 1092- 1094

Brinjal is one of the important vegetable crops in India and its production is extensively affected by many insects in particular brinjal fruit and shoot borer. Large scale discriminate use of chemical insecticides not only damage environment but also affect human health. To minimize the use of insecticides and to get healthy brinjal fruit Bt Brinjal was developed employing transgenic technology. Bt brinjal could effectively control the target pests. When the insect feeds the plant and thereby ingests the delta cryo endotoxin in the insect gut, the protein binds to specific receptors on the insect midgut, inserts into the membrane and forms ion specific pores in gut lining and causes the death of the insect. The potential economic benefits of Bt brinjal hybrids in terms of yield gain, reduction in insecticide-use, and increase in net returns per hectare have been reported. Bt brinjal increases income of farmers, reduce its cost to consumers, improve food safety and reduce health hazards and environmental pollution.

Bt Brinjal, Food safety, Insecticides, Transgenic crops NIL 2020-10-30 Popular Article K. Sudhabindu and Kailash Chandra Samal

K. Sudhabindu*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 012), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 012), India

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1061 1743902000 Biotica Research Today Integrated Pest Management of Rice Leaffolder and Their Bio-Control Agents Agriculture 1095-1097

Rice is a major food crop in India and Asian countries. Several insect pests are attacking rice crops and causes considerable damage. Among them rice leaf folders are important defoliator pests which affect rice crop through the year. There are 2-3 leaffolder species prevailing in our country. The difference between three species can be distinguished in larval as well as adult stages. The integrated management strategies comprises of cultural methods, mechanical methods, chemical methods and biological control methods. There are several bio control agents recorded in India and the different group of parasitoids, predators and pathogens attacking rice leaffolder are narrated.

Bio-control agents, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis, Integrated pest management, Rice leaffolder NIL 2020-10-30 Popular Article R. P. Soundararajan, M. Chandrasekaran and N. Chitra

R. P. Soundararajan*

Dept. of Plant Protection, Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Trichy, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

M. Chandrasekaran

Dept. of Plant Protection, Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Trichy, Tamil Nadu (620 027), India

N. Chitra

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1062 1743902902 Biotica Research Today Contribution of Indian Cow in Rural Economy Agriculture 1104-1107

From a source of milk to a provider of labor and religious inspiration, cows often play prominent role in Hindu society. There are different views about the exact origin of the Indian cattle breeds and as to whether or not they were brought into India by the Aryans or existed in the country even prior to that. Cow has been a corner stone of Indian agriculture for centuries and has served as source of nutrition for farmer’s families through milk and milk products, as well as providing draught animal power for both agricultural operations such as ploughing and tilling the land, as well as for transportation of goods. Nearly all basic necessities of life were woven around the cow, with contributions in all aspects of life, including farming and manure, food and nourishment, transport, fuel (burning of dried cow dung cakes) and medicinal usage of cow dung and cow urine.

Cow, Cow Dung Cakes, Milk Products, Rural economy NIL 2020-10-31 Popular Article Geeta Mohan, O. P. Sharma and Manjeet Kaur

Geeta Mohan*

Dept. of Agriculture, Jagannath University, Jaipur, Rajasthan (303 901), India

O. P. Sharma

Dept. of Agriculture, Jagannath University, Jaipur, Rajasthan (303 901), India

Manjeet Kaur

Dept. of Agriculture, Jagannath University, Jaipur, Rajasthan (303 901), India

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1063 1743904447 Biotica Research Today Saline Soil Reclamation Agriculture 1070-1072

The distinguishing characteristic of saline soils contains sufficient neutral soluble salts to adversely affect the growth of most of the crop plants. Saline soils are those which have an electrical conductivity of more than 4 dS/m at 25 °C. Different ways of saline soil reclamation practices were followed to alleviate the saline soil problem and the practices encompasses namely, scraping, flushing and leaching, agronomic practices, crop rotation, selected crop cultivation, different irrigation practices, drainage  of soil, gypsum application and biological methods of saline soil removal by applying manures, green manures and bulky organic manures, etc.

Green manures, Leaching, Saline soil, Scrapping NIL 2020-10-28 Popular Article P. Christy Nirmala Mary, R. Murugaragavan, J. Ramachandran, R. Shanmugasundaram, S. Karpagam and S. S. Rakesh

P. Christy Nirmala Mary*

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

R. Murugaragavan

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

J. Ramachandran

Dept. of Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

R. Shanmugasundaram

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

S. Karpagam

Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

S. S. Rakesh

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1064 1744198403 Biotica Research Today Vetiver in Environment Agriculture 1108-1110

Vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides L.) being a commercial perennial crop plant acquires numerous properties for the environmental protection as well as creates marketing avenues for the benefit of the farming community. This crop can grow in tropical and sub-tropical conditions. It has its native in India, grows up to 2 m height and the depth of roots may reaches upto 3 m. It possesses the fibrous root system and can hold plenty of soils, also grows even in water deficit or limited water conditions. This crop is used for various medicinal and aromatic purposes. The marketing potential of the plant includes Oils, Biomass, Briquettes, Roofing and Handicrafts. The environmental prospective includes Soil Stabilization, Groundwater recharge, Tolerant to heavy metals, Salinity and Stress tolerant, and Carbon Sequestration.

Agriculture, Carbon sequestration, Environment, Vetiver NIL 0202-11-02 Popular Article K. Suganya and M.P. Sugumaran

K. Suganya*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

M. P. Sugumaran

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1065 1744198853 Biotica Research Today Mechanism of Herbal Medicine for Treatment of Cancer Agriculture 1111-1112

In this modern lifestyle, cancer is observed as one of the most extensive diseases in the world and it is increasing day by day. It is mandatory to identify new strategies to prevent and treat diseases more effectively. Herbal medicines can perform a significant role by blocking critical biomedical pathways converting normal cells into cancer cells for treatment. Signal-transduction is blocked by herbal medicine in cancer and it is called the primary channel. Activities such as controlling the nuclear factor-kB signaling pathway, mitogen-activated protein kinases signal pathways, and protein tyrosine kinase pathway. Herbal products prevent side effects on healthy cells. For this type of benefit, people with cancer commonly use herbal products. In various studies says herbal medicines are widely used medicine among cancer patients as an alternative therapy.

Anticancer compounds, Cancer, Herbal drug-interactions, Medicinal herbs NIL 2020-11-05 Popular Article Khandaker Sabit Bin Razzak, Divya Jain, Mohammad Nabil Hossain and Tasnim Reza Khan Zahra

Khandaker Sabit Bin Razzak

Dept. of Public Health, American International University- Bangladesh (AIUB), Dhaka (1229), Bangladesh

Divya Jain*

Dept. of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Banasthali Vidyapith, Vanasthali, Rajasthan (304 022), India

Mohammad Nabil Hossain

College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai (201 620), PR China

Tasnim Reza Khan Zahra

Dept. of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, East West University, Dhaka (1212), Bangladesh

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1066 1744262014 Biotica Research Today Makhana Triumphs over Flood: A Success Story from Darbhanga, Bihar Agriculture 1113-1116

Makhana farming, though highly profitable, is a cost intensive proposition. Farmers may have to suffer huge monetary losses if a mature crop of makhana is washed away by the running flood water, a situation not so uncommon in flood prone areas of Mithilanchal region in north Bihar. Here I present the success story of a makhana farmer who beat the flood to save his crop and ensured a net income of Rs. 1,10,000.00/ha from makhana farming in a flood hit region of Darbhanga, where the entire area (Chaur) surrounding the farmer’s field remained submerged and unproductive. As the farmer confirms, this is the highest he got from makhana cultivation in any of the flood hit years over the past decade and a half. Net fencing around the field coupled with scientific methods of makhana farming did the trick. This story shows the way to successful makhana farming despite the challenges posed by recurrent floods in Mithilanchal region of Bihar.

Euryale ferox, Fox nut, Makhana farming, Net fencing technology NIL 2020-11-05 Success story Manoj Kumar

Manoj Kumar

ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga, Bihar (846 005), India

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1067 1744262332 Biotica Research Today Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) - A Robust Molecular Tool for Rapid Disease Diagnosis Agriculture 1117-1121

Genetic testing is widely used method for disease diagnosis in human, animal and plant systems. Currently, PCR is a method of choice for gene amplification but requires a thermal cycler for the reaction and electrophoresis by fluorescent intercalator to detect the amplification. However, this method remains elusive only to affordable laboratories across world. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is an outstanding gene amplification procedure that combines rapidity, simplicity, and high specificity. Samples are amplified at a fixed temperature through a repetition of two types of elongation reactions occurring at the loop regions. LAMP technique has wide applications, including in point-of-care testing, genetic testing in resource constrained places, and rapid testing of food products and environmental samples.

Disease diagnostics, Gene amplification, LAMP, PCR NIL 2020-11-07 Popular Article Rajesh, S., Varanavasiappan, S. and Dhivya, K.

Rajesh, S.*

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Varanavasiappan, S.

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Dhivya, K.

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1068 1744262815 Biotica Research Today Role of Honey Bees for Income Generation in Farming System Agriculture 1122-1125

Beekeeping is the best rural based enterprise for strengthening the economic status of whole society which can be practiced by anyone. It does not require either any heavy initial investment or continuous labor, so can be integrated with any other farming practice. It provides various products viz., honey, pollen, and wax apart from serving as pollinators. Honey bees are the only pollinators which can be made readily available in considerable numbers, whenever and wherever needed. Like other agro-inputs (Fertilizer, seeds, pesticides, irrigation, etc.) honey bees can be exploited as another vital agro input to enhance crop productivity. Beekeeping products and increase in crop productivity due to bee pollination boost the farmers’ income and ultimately their livelihood.

Beekeeping, Farming system, Honey bee, Pollinators NIL 2020-11-09 Popular Article Rachna Pande, Ramkrushna G. I., Pooja Verma and Vivek Shah

Rachna Pande*

ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Panjari, Nagpur, Maharashtra (441 108), India

Ramkrushna G. I.

ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Panjari, Nagpur, Maharashtra (441 108), India

Pooja Verma

ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Panjari, Nagpur, Maharashtra (441 108), India

Vivek Shah

ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Panjari, Nagpur, Maharashtra (441 108), India

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1069 1744263373 Biotica Research Today An Appraisal of Constraints Faced by Tea (Camellia sinensis) Value Chain Players during COVID-19 Crisis Agriculture 1126-1129

The present study aims at to identify the important stakeholders (Small tea growers, green tea leaf collector, processor, wholesaler and retailer) of the tea value chain, and constraints faced by them during the COVID-19 pandemic. All the stakeholders of the value chain faced different problem according to their way of operation, among them tea growers faced maximum problem regarding growing of green tea leaves. To identify the important constraints, we used Garrett’s ranking technique. The study revealed that, unavailability of inputs on peak plucking time was the main constraint faced by the small tea growers with 75.39 average score in garret ranking. In case of leaf collector, processor and wholesaler/ retailers the main problems were restricted transportation (81.66), unavailability of quality tealeaves (77.43) and price instability respectively (85.34).

Constraint, COVID-19, Small tea grower, Value chain NIL 2020-11-10 Short Communication Abhijit Das and R.R. Mishra

Abhijit Das*

Division of Dairy Economics, Statistics and Management, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana (132 001), India

R. R. Mishra

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

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1070 1744263959 Biotica Research Today Pandemic COVID-19’s Probable Impacts on Indian Fisheries Sectors & Its Protective Measures Agriculture 1130-1134

The outbreak of COVID-19 and the sudden India-wide lockdown, has severely affected India's fisheries sectors. Fishers, hatchery owners, fish processors, sea-food exporters, traders, fish vendors, vehicles carrying fish – all involved in fisheries and allied activities have been badly impacted. Some deceptive perceptions about fish and fishery products in some countries have led to decreased consumption, a drop in demand, and resulting price drops of fish. As there is no current report suggesting that fish play an epidemiological role in spreading COVID-19 to humans, it is safe to consume fish. This article aims to describe some predictable multidirectional impacts of this pandemic on the fisheries sector and a set of protective measures to get rid of this sudden shock.

COVID-19, Fisheries, Fishery products, Sea-food exporters NIL 2020-11-13 Popular Article Triparna Pahari

Triparna Pahari

Division of Fish Genetics and Biotechnology, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India

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1071 1744264269 Biotica Research Today Soil Physical Properties Influencing Irrigation Agriculture 1135-1136

Soil-water-plant relationship relate to the properties of soil and plants that affect the movement, retention, and use of water. The rate of entry of water into the soil and its retention, movement and availability to plant roots are all physical properties of soil. A number of soil physical characteristics collectively have potential to impact irrigation practices and management, and how efficient a job is done with irrigation.

Capillary, Irrigation, Soil structure, Soil texture NIL 2020-11-13 Popular Article Nabanita Sarkar

Nabanita Sarkar

Dept. of Soil and Water Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, Mohanpur, West Bengal (741 252), India

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1072 1744264636 Biotica Research Today Permaculture – Food Garden to Maximize Multiple Vegetable Yield – A Farmer Success Story Agriculture 1137-1139

Vegetable cultivation is considered to be a high returned agri-business. The present case was documented for a Permaculture technique adopted by a farmer under the technical guidance of KVK, Namakkal at Palapatti village of Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu, India. The observations revealed that sale of multi vegetables at a time and get a gross income of Rs. 1,500.00 per day than sole vegetable (Rs. 300.00 – 500.00). The permaculture farmer considers that there is a need to diversify the mono cropping to multiple cropping in a piece of land for secure and sustainable future.

Farmer success story, Food garden, Multiple cropping, Permaculture NIL 2020-11-16 Success story Sharmila Bharathi C.

Sharmila Bharathi C.

ICAR - Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Veterinary College and Research Institute Campus, TANUVAS, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu (637 002), India

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1073 1744265008 Biotica Research Today A New Invasive Insect Fall Army Worm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) on Maize Agriculture 1140-1142

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E.Smith) (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) is a serious polyphagous pest of voracious nature with a wide host range of approximately more than 100 recorded plant species in 27 families. This pest prefers plants from the Gramineae family including many economically important plants such as maize, millet, sorghum, sugarcane, rice, wheat, etc. There are reports on its infestation on other field crops like cowpea, groundnut, potato, soybean, cotton, etc. The fall armyworm was first officially reported in Nigeria in West Africa in 2016, and rapidly spread across 44 countries in sub-Saharan Africa.  Yield reductions in maize due to feeding of the fall armyworm have been reported as high as 34% and some areas suffering up to 70% crop destruction. Fall armyworm causes significant yield losses if not well managed. It has several generations per year and the moth can fly up to 100 km per night.

Fall Armyworm, Life stages, Maize, Management NIL 2020-11-16 Popular Article Niranjanadevi Jeevanandham and Velprabakaran S.

Niranjanadevi Jeevanandham*

Dept. of Biotechnology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

Velprabakaran S.

Dept. of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (625 104), India

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1074 1744265390 Biotica Research Today Agtech vis-a-vis Blockchain Agriculture 1143-1144

Agtech akin to the name is the convergence of technology with agriculture. It is the sensible use of technology in agriculture to reduce the pitfalls of traditional, conventional farming systems. This allows for automation, better transparency, better food quality & safety and, real-time data among others. The gamut of technologies employed in agriculture span from the basic smart phone to big data and robotics. The cutting edge technology that is discussed here is Blockchain. Considered one of the disruptive technologies, Blockchain draws on agriculture as one of the vital innovations for information and transparency.

Agricultural Technology, Automation, Blockchain, Traceability NIL 2020-11-17 Popular Article S. Sowmiyaa and S. Moghana Lavanya

S. Sowmiyaa*

Dept. of Agricultural and Rural Management, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Moghana Lavanya

Dept. of Agricultural and Rural Management, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1075 1744268424 Biotica Research Today Drought Management in India Agriculture 1151-1153

Droughts are one of the major constraints to crop production and food security worldwide. The situation has aggravated due to the drastic and rapid changes in global climate. Heat and drought are undoubtedly the two most important stresses having huge impact on growth and productivity of the crops. A wide range of plant responses to these stresses could be generalized into morphological, physiological, and biochemical responses. Interestingly, this review provides a detailed account of plant responses to heat and drought stresses with special focus on highlighting the commonalities and differences. Crop growth and yields are negatively affected by sub-optimal water supply and abnormal temperatures due to physical damages, physiological disruptions, and biochemical changes. A holistic approach taking into account the different management options to deal with heat and drought stress simultaneously could be a win-win approach in future.

Impacts of Drought, Management of Drought, Mitigation of Drought, Types of Drought NIL 2020-11-21 Popular Article S. Alagappan

S. Alagappan

Dept. of Agronomy, The Indian Agriculture College (Affiliated to the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Radhapuram, Tamil Nadu (627 111), India

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1076 1744268785 Biotica Research Today Baby Corn – A New Venture of Income to the Farmers of Tripura Agriculture 1154-1156

The economy of Tripura mainly depends on agriculture which provides livelihood as well as productive engagement to the majority of the population. The agro-climatic conditions of the state provide ample scope for crop diversification and cultivation of short duration baby corn year round, can pave a way for a better economy. In India, baby corn is emerging as a potential remunerative crop among the progressive farmers. Now there is need to explore its potential in Tripura. The potential of baby corn is tested in Tripura with the initiative of ICAR, Tripura Centre. Baby corn variety HM-4 was tested at ICAR Tripura centre and the cultivation of baby corn before aman rice (during summer) was much more profitable than any other crops.

Crop diversification, High value crop, Profitability, Tripura NIL 2020-11-22 Popular Article Gulab Singh Yadav, Subhash Babu and Anup Das

Gulab Singh Yadav*

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Subhash Babu

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Anup Das

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

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1077 1744269297 Biotica Research Today Facts of Calcareous Soils Agriculture 1157-1159

Calcareous soil shares more than 30% soil of the world. A considerable portion of arable land of India is also covered by calcareous soil. These soils have potential to produce good crops. However, due to certain limitation (both physical and chemical) of the soil, a good crop yield is very often not realized. In this article, therefore, characteristics, nutrient constraints and their management in calcareous soil is discussed In this article, the facts of calcareous soil is being focussed, very limited information is available on calcareous soils; hence this article is being written.

Calcareous soils, Nutrient constraints, Nutrient management, Production constraints NIL 2020-11-22 Popular Article S. Alagappan

S. Alagappan

Dept. of Agronomy, The Indian Agriculture College (Affiliated to the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Radhapuram, Tamil Nadu (627 111), India

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1078 1744269598 Biotica Research Today Development of Groundnut–Potato–Baby Corn Cropping System for Irrigated Medium Land of Tripura Agriculture 1160-1162

In Tripura, rainfed rice-potato system is prevailing on medium upland. Due to changing the climatic condition and fluctuation in rainfall pattern make the cultivation of rice for uneconomical. The groundnut is emerging a new crop for rainfed condition and has the potential to replace the uneconomical rainfed rice. Short duration cash crop like groundnut, potato, baby corn etc. which is highly amenable to adjustment, fits in well in various cropping systems and efficiently utilized natural and socio-economic resources to maximize production and profitability in a sustained manner.

Income enhancement, Production maximization, Rainfed rice-potato system, Short duration crops NIL 2020-11-23 Popular Article Gulab Singh Yadav, Subhash Babu and Anup Das

Gulab Singh Yadav*

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Subhash Babu

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110 012), India

Anup Das

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

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1079 1744272985 Biotica Research Today Physiological Factors of Dry Land Crop Production Agriculture 1163- 1166

Soil moisture is the most limiting factor in dry land farming. Understanding the physiological processes that occur during moisture stress is necessary to ameliorate the stress effects either by management practices or by plant improvement. The major physiological principles that affect dry land crops are as follows: Soil moisture stress, Effect on photosynthesis, Assimilate saturation, Respiration, Metabolic reaction, Hormonal relationships, Growth and Leaf area development and reproduction and yield.

Antitranspirants, Effect on nutrient uptake, Photosynthesis, Stomatal mechanism and yield NIL 2020-11-23 Popular Article S. Alagappan

S. Alagappan

Dept. of Agronomy, The Indian Agriculture College (Affiliated to the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Radhapuram, Tamil Nadu (627 111), India

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1080 1744274199 Biotica Research Today Integrated Approaches in Crop Simulation Modeling for Future Agriculture Agriculture 1170-1173

Crop simulation models in general Crop Simulation Models (CSM) are the “dynamic simulation of crop growth by numerical integration of crop growth by numerical integration of constituent process with the aid of computers” Crop Simulation Models (CSM) integrate current scientific knowledge from many different disciplines, including crop physiology, plant breeding, agronomy, agro meteorology, soil physics, soil chemistry, pathology and entomology. CSM used in crop management, water balance, climate change and impacts, Cropping Systems, Intercropping and spacing interactions, Land use studies, Soil impacts (erosion, acidity, organic matter, leaching), Crop adaptations and breeding. CSM is widely used in different countries on various applications in agriculture. Precision farming and organic farming crop yield prediction, yield monitoring, farming system design and implementation, weather data collection, validation and utilization are being systematically used in crop modelling.

Agro meteorological models, Crop simulation models, Data sets for models, Model simulation challenges NIL 2020-11-26 Popular Article S. Alagappan

S. Alagappan

Dept. of Agronomy, The Indian Agriculture College (Affiliated to the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Raja Nagar, Radhapuram, Tamil Nadu (627 111), India

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1081 1744274568 Biotica Research Today Why Insects are Dominance in the Biosphere? Agriculture 1174- 1178

Insects or Insecta are hexapod invertebrates and the largest group within the arthropod phylum. Circumscriptions vary; usually, insects comprise a class within the Arthropoda. Insects have a chitinous exoskeleton, a three-part body, three pairs of jointed legs, compound eyes and one pair of antennae. Insects are the most diverse group of animals; they include more than a million described species and represent more than half of all known living organisms. The total number of extant species is estimated at between six and ten million; potentially over 90% of the animal life forms on Earth are insects. Insects may be found in nearly all environments, although only a small number of species reside in the oceans, which are dominated by another arthropod group, crustaceans.

Adoptability, Arthropod, Defense mechanism, Dominant NIL 2020-11-26 Popular Article Devi, M. and K. Indirakumar

Devi, M.*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, MIT College of Agriculture and Technology, Musiri, Tamil Nadu (621 211), India

K. Indirakumar

Central Silk Board, Tura, West Garo Hills, Meghalaya (794 101), India

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1082 1744275476 Biotica Research Today Environmental Planning Agriculture 1179-1182

Guiding Principles for Environmental Planning are two principal environmental concerns: restoring damage to the environment from a disaster and minimizing the environmental impact of the reconstruction process itself. Site planning in new settlements should be governed by ecological concerns. Construction methods, building designs, and choice of materials all have an environmental impact; they should be based on local practices while being eco-friendly. Disaster debris is a valuable resource that should be reused during reconstruction whenever possible. However, materials that can be harmful to workers or the environment, such as asbestos or toxic substances, must be managed carefully.

Environment, Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment, Tools for Environmental Planning, Type of Disaster. NIL 2020-11-26 Popular Article S. Alagappan

S. Alagappan

Dept. of Agronomy, The Indian Agriculture College (Affiliated to the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Raja Nagar, Radhapuram, Tamil Nadu (627 111), India

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1083 1744275787 Biotica Research Today Indian Jujube: A Lesser Explored, Underutilized and Potential Fruit for Processing With Possible Health Benefits Agriculture 1183-1185

In several countries around the world, the Jujube, also known as Ziziphus is cultivated. Chinese jujube has been used for years in herbal medicine and has also been researched extensively for its nutraceutical properties and health benefits. However, no systematic study on Indian jujube has been performed yet, and knowledge on the potential Indian varieties is still lacking. Very limited information is available on the phytochemicals of the Indian jujube. Therefore, it is important to characterize the different Indian jujube cultivars in order to better understand the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and medicinal value that the fruit provides, and also to have increased consumption of the fruit by the general consumers. The Indian jujube, which is also less explored, less consumed and underutilized, provides a great opportunity for exploitation of the fruit for its contribution toward food security, processing, value addition, and thereby income opportunity for the Indian growers and processors.

Fruit processing, Health benefits, Indian jujube, Jujube fruit NIL 2020-11-27 Popular Article Supta Sarkar and Ellandula Jyoshna

Supta Sarkar*

Dept. of Foods & Nutrition, College of Community Science, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU), Rajendranagar Mandal, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 004), India

Ellandula Jyoshna

Dept. of Foods & Nutrition, College of Community Science, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU), Rajendranagar Mandal, Hyderabad, Telangana (500 004), India

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1084 1744281051 Biotica Research Today Globalization in Agriculture Agriculture 1186-1188

In the last four decades there has been a radical restructuring of the scope and character of the production and distribution of many goods, including food. This process has been termed ‘globalisation’, shaping people’s lives in profound cultural, ideological and economic ways. The characteristics of globalisation include the worldwide spread of modern technologies of production, particularly including in communications but also into farming, the agricultural supply sector and food processing. This involves money, production and trade as part of what has been termed ‘the borderless world’, and the networking of virtually all the world’s economies, fostering ever-closer functional integration. It also refers to the linking and interrelationships between cultural forms and practices that develop when societies become integrated into and dependent on world markets as part of the congruence and homogenisation of capitalist economic forms, markets and relations across.

Agricultural export policies, Exports, Globalization, Imports and Liberalization NIL 2020-11-27 Popular Article S. Alagappan

S. Alagappan

Dept. of Agronomy, The Indian Agriculture College (Affiliated to the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Raja Nagar, Radhapuram, Tamil Nadu (627 111), India

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1085 1744281329 Research Biotica Reduction of Chemical Potassic Source of Fertilizer by Integrating Potash Solubilising Bacteria in Sali Rice Agriculture 144-150

The study here entitled “Reduction of Chemical Potassic Source of Fertilizer by Integrating Potash Solubilising Bacteria in Sali Rice” was carried out by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) of Udalguri under Assam Agricultural University, Assam. The demonstrations were conducted at farmer’s plot at different villages of Udalguri district during Kharif seasons of 2020-21 and 2021-22, to measure the effect of continuous application of inorganic fertilizers along with organic nutrients on crop productivity, economics, soil fertility and plant health. The integration of Potash-Solubilizing Bacteria (KSB) with a 50% reduction in potassic fertilizer application resulted in an average grain yield of 46 and 45 q ha-1, across two consecutive years, demonstrating a 5.45% yield improvement over conventional fertilization. Soil potassium availability improved significantly, with increased organic carbon, cation exchange capacity and microbial activity. The economic analysis revealed a higher benefit-cost (B:C) ratio of 2.1 in KSB-treated plots compared to 1.37 in conventional farmer’s practices, indicating the cost-effectiveness of biofertilizer-based Integrated Nutrient Management (INM). These results enlighten the potential of KSB in reducing chemical input dependency while maintaining the sustainable rice productivity.

Fertilizer, Integrated nutrient management, Oryza sativa, Potash solubilizing bacteria (KSB), Sali rice, Yield https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.4.2024/144-150 2024-11-04 Research Articles Ipsita Ojah, Debasish Borah, Abdul Hafiz, Pallavi Deka and Himadri Rabha

Ipsita Ojah*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Darrang, Assam Agricultural University, Assam (784 146), India

Debasish Borah

IFSR, AICRP-IFS, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (785 013), India

Abdul Hafiz

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Darrang, Assam Agricultural University, Assam (784 146), India

Pallavi Deka

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Assam (784 514), India

Himadri Rabha

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Udalguri, Assam Agricultural University, Assam (784 514), India

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1086 1744281282 Biotica Research Today Insect Venom of Social Hymenoptera Agriculture 1189-1190

The venoms of the social Hymenoptera evolved to be used as defensive tools to protect the colonies of these insects from the attacks of predators. Generally they do not cause lethal effects but cause mainly inflammatory and/or immunological reactions in the victims of their stings. However, sometimes it is also possible to observe the occurrence of systemic effects like respiratory and/or kidney failure. Meanwhile, the venoms of solitary Hymenoptera evolved mainly to cause paralysis of the preys in order to permit egg laying on/within the prey’s body; thus, some components of these venoms cause permanent/ transient paralysis in the preys, while other components seem to act preventing infections of the food and future progenies. In addition to these pe­ptides, the Hymenopteran venoms also may contain a few neurotoxins that target Na+ and/or Ca+2 channels or even the nicotinic ACh receptor.

Ant bees, Insect, Venom, Wasp NIL 2020-11-27 Popular Article Devi, M. and K. Indirakumar

Devi, M.*

Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, MIT College of Agriculture and Technology, Musiri, Tamil Nadu (621 211), India

K. Indirakumar

Central Silk Board, Tura, West Garo Hills, Meghalaya (794 101), India

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1087 1744281831 Biotica Research Today Organic Farming in India - A Summary Agriculture 1191-1194

India produces a large variety of food crops including cereals, pulses and oilseeds. Diversified agriculture is the priority of the Central Government, and technical and financial support is being extended to farmers to encourage diversification especially in the areas of horticulture, floriculture, medicinal and aromatic plants, apiculture (Bee-keeping) and sericulture. Organic farming was practiced in India since thousands of years. The great Indian civilization thrived on organic farming and was one of the most prosperous countries in the world, till the British ruled it. Increasing pesticide residues in food materials, eutrophication of surface and ground-waters and increasing nitrous oxide emissions which are detrimental to the ozone layer of the atmosphere, drew attention towards the harmful effects of modern agriculture and environmentalists pressed hard for a more sustainable agriculture. An attempt is made to analyze the importance of organic farming, principle of organic farming, Organic farming in rural economy, consumption pattern and export of organically produced products in India.

Organic farming, Organic food consumption, Organic food industry, Organic products export NIL 2020-11-27 Popular Article S. Alagappan

S. Alagappan

Dept. of Agronomy, The Indian Agriculture College (Affiliated to the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Raja Nagar, Radhapuram, Tamil Nadu (627 111), India

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1088 1744282177 Biotica Research Today Principles and Practices of Fertigation Agriculture 1195-1197

An approach for efficient utilisation of water and fertilisers is necessary for agriculture in the 21st century. As the use of conventional irrigation methods not only results in considerable loss of water but is also responsible for development of wide spread salinity, water logging and leaching of nutrients from the rhizosphere. Fertilisers supplied under traditional methods of irrigation are not effectively utilized by the crops. As an alternative, fertigation is gaining popularity all over the world. It was first started in the late 1960's in Israel with the development of drip irrigation and over 75% of the irrigated area is fertilized by fertigation.

Drip irrigation, Fertigation, Fertilizer use efficiency, Root zone NIL 2020-11-28 Popular Article G. Thiyagarajan, V. Sivakumar, M. Manikandan, M. Nagarajan and A. Selvaperumal

G. Thiyagarajan*

Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

V. Sivakumar

Coconut Research Station, Aliyarnagar, Tamil Nadu (642 101), India

M. Manikandan

Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kumulur, Tamil Nadu (621 712), India

M. Nagarajan

Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kumulur, Tamil Nadu (621 712), India

A. Selvaperumal

Dept. of Soil & Water Conservation Engineering, AEC&RI, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1089 1744283117 Biotica Research Today Epidemiology of Rabies and the Control Challenges Agriculture 1201-1204

Globally lyssaviruses are biologically interested because of the human and animal health issues. Lyssaviruses are responsible to cause fatal encephalitis which is mentioned with the name of rabies infection. Rabies is the most prevalent fatal and acute zoonotic disease worldwide. The annual mortality ratio of rabies in humans is almost 59000 among 150 countries, out of which 95% in the Asia and Africa. Rabies virus transmission is mostly occur when the infected animal bite or engrave to the other susceptible animal or humans. Diagnosis is mainly dependent on the clinical signs & symptoms, history of the infected individual, mortality and vaccination prophylaxis. The objective of this communication was to review the epidemiology of rabies, transmission, diagnosis and current control challenges globally.

Rabies virus, Stray dogs, Vaccine, WHO response NIL 2020-11-28 Popular Article Arslan Habib, Umutumwa Eric Principe, Zeeshan Ashraf and Muhammad Imran

Arslan Habib*

Lab of Molecular Immunology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai (200 433), China

Umutumwa Eric Principe

School of Biotechnology, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai (200 433), China

Zeeshan Ashraf

Dept. of Fisheries & Aquaculture, University of Veterinary and Animals Sciences (UVAS), Lahore, Punjab (54000), Pakistan

Muhammad Imran

Dept. of Theriogenology, University of Veterinary and Animals Sciences (UVAS), Lahore, Punjab (54000), Pakistan

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1090 1744388322 Biotica Research Today Impact of Climate Change and Water Resources in India Agriculture 94-96

Significantly depleting India's water resources, climate change is therefore hurting agricultural and socio-economic stability. This paper combines few current studies to evaluate their impact on coastal areas, groundwater and rainfall. Results point to falling yearly rainfall and increasing temperatures, which aggravate groundwater depletion and irrigation needs. Uneven rainfall in Northeast India is causing more water scarcity, which endangers food security. Rising sea levels and frequent floods in coastal areas put pressure on water management systems and cause climate-related migration. Extreme weather occurrences disturb agricultural calendars and hydrological cycles considerably more. Balancing water demand and supply calls for urgent adaptation actions such precision irrigation, integrated water resource management (IWRM) and climate-resilient infrastructures. This study emphasizes the need of regional research and adaption plans. Sustainable water policies and better forecasts can help to protect water resources and national food security by strengthening resilience. Navigating the country's climate and water sustainability issues calls for cooperative action.

Climate change, Monsoon variability, Rainfed agriculture, Water resources NIL 2025-03-24 Popular Article Gulja S. Nair, D. Karunanidhi and Pooran Pragnya

Gulja S. Nair*

Dept. of Agricultural Engineering, Nehru Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 105), India

D. Karunanidhi

Dept. of Civil Engineering, School of Engineering, Mohan Babu University, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh (517 102), India

Pooran Pragnya

Dept. of Agricultural Engineering, Nehru Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 105), India

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1091 1744388582 Biotica Research Today Water Quality Management in Fish Ponds for Optimum Fish Production Fisheries Science 97-100

Water quality is a key factor determining the success of aquaculture because it has a direct effect on the health, growth and productivity of fish. Low fish yield and financial losses can occur due to stress (due to low water quality), indirectly leading to diseases and death. Phytoplankton is a part of the natural food web in aquatic systems and is consumed by zooplankton and grazers, which are favourable for fish metabolism and survival if dissolved oxygen, pH, ammonia, turbidity and temperature are maintained within acceptable thresholds. Physico-chemicals imbalances can impair physiological functions and decelerate growth and they contribute to susceptibility to infections. Maintaining water quality is indispensable for good health of aquatic organisms and periodic monitoring and timely management is essential to avoid unwanted conditions and maintain a stable aquatic environment. Through maintaining appropriate water conditions, fish farmers can increase survival rates, improve growth performance and improve profitability. As such, water quality management is not only a necessary condition for healthy fish farming but also a significant factor for long-term sustainability and profitability in aquaculture.

Aquaculture, Fish production, Pond, Water quality NIL 2025-03-26 Popular Article Huirem Bharati, Lopamudra Sahoo, Vinay Singh, B.U. Choudhury, Martina Meinam, H. Lembisana Devi and Y. Jackie Singh

Huirem Bharati*

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

Lopamudra Sahoo

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

Vinay Singh

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

B.U. Choudhury

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

Martina Meinam

Dept. of Extension, Economics and Statistics, College of Fisheries, CAU (Imphal), Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

H. Lembisana Devi

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Charoi-Chagotlong, Tamenglong, Manipur (795 159), India

Y. Jackie Singh

Dept. of Extension, Economics and Statistics, College of Fisheries, CAU (Imphal), Lembucherra, Tripura (799 210), India

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1092 1744482049 Biotica Research Today Remote Sensing Applications in Precision Agriculture Agriculture 1205-1207

Precision agriculture (PA) entails the application of a suite of such technologies to optimize agricultural inputs to increase agricultural production and reduce input losses. Use of remote sensing technologies for PA has increased rapidly during the past few decades. The unprecedented availability of high resolution (spatial, spectral and temporal) satellite images has promoted the use of remote sensing in many PA applications, including crop monitoring, irrigation management, nutrient application, disease and pest management, and yield prediction. Remote-sensing-based PA technologies such as variable fertilizer rate application technology in Green Seeker and Crop Circle have already been incorporated in commercial agriculture. Given the complexity of image processing and the amount of technical knowledge and expertise needed, for the real-time application of remote sensing in PA. Development of accurate yet easy to use, user-friendly systems is likely to result in broader adoption of remote sensing technologies in commercial and non-commercial PA applications.

Global Positioning System (GPS), Geographical Information System (GIS), Precision agriculture (PA), Variable Rate Technology (VRT). NIL 2020-11-20 Popular Article S. Alagappan

S. Alagappan

Dept. of Agronomy, The Indian Agriculture College (Affiliated to the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Raja Nagar, Radhapuram, Tamil Nadu (627 111), India

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1093 1744482326 Biotica Research Today Seaweed Extracts to Mitigate Aquatic Diseases Agriculture 1208-1210

Aquaculture is one of the world's fastest-growing ways of producing food. To mitigate the outbreak of disease, which is the key issue in aquaculture, chemotherapeutic approaches are highly used. Prolonged and improper use of chemicals (antibiotics) leads to resistance as well as a major environmental hazard. For disease control in aquaculture, compounds or metabolites from natural biosystems are being studied. The use of seaweeds and their metabolites is important to aquaculture health and disease management to monitor pathogens. Crude or purified compounds are used in the context of water therapy or as feeding additives.

Aquatic disease, Antibiotics, Recognition of natural products, Seaweeds NIL 2020-11-29 Popular Article Ambika Binesh* and Kaliyamurthi Venkatachalam

Ambika Binesh*

Dept. of Basic Sciences, Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, OMR Campus, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

Kaliyamurthi Venkatachalam

Dept. of Basic Sciences, Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, OMR Campus, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

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1094 1744482768 Biotica Research Today Salt Stress Injury and Resistance Mechanism in Plants Agriculture 1211-1214

Salinity is a major abiotic stress limiting growth and productivity of plants in many areas of the world due to increasing use of poor quality of water for irrigation and soil salinization. Plant adaptation or tolerance to salinity stress involves complex physiological traits, metabolic pathways, and molecular or gene networks. A comprehensive understanding on how plants respond to salinity stress at different levels and an integrated approach of combining molecular tools with physiological and biochemical techniques are imperative for the development of salt-tolerant varieties of plants in salt-affected areas. Recent research has identified various adaptive responses to salinity stress at molecular, cellular, metabolic, and physiological levels, although mechanisms underlying salinity tolerance are far from being completely understood.

Mitigation of salt stress, Oxidative stress, Salt stress effects, Salt tolerance NIL 2020-11-29 Popular Article S. Alagappan

S. Alagappan

Dept. of Agronomy, The Indian Agriculture College (Affiliated to the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Raja Nagar, Radhapuram, Tamil Nadu (627 111), India

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1095 1744483229 Biotica Research Today Biofortification of Crops to Address Global Zn Deficiency Agriculture 1215-1217

Clinical or subclinical Zn deficiency is associated with a wide array of physiological issues in developing countries, caused mainly by inadequate dietary intake. About a third of the world’s population is estimated to be at risk of Zn deficiency, which is especially prevalent in children under 5 years of age. Deficiencies of Zn and other micronutrients in developing countries are also reported to cause great economic losses and have a considerable effect on the gross national product by decreasing productivity and increasing the health care costs. A large consumption of cereal-based foods with small concentrations and low bioavailability of Zn is the major reason behind this problem. Agricultural strategies that are used to improve the nutritional value of crop plants are known as biofortification strategies. Conventional and molecular plant breeding, genetic modification and agronomic interventions including appropriate fertilizer applications are the major tools that are used and investigated for the biofortification of food crops with Zn.

Biofortification, Breeding, Genetic engineering, Zinc deficiency NIL 2020-11-29 Popular Article S. Sheelamary, K. Lakshmi and G.K. Sujayanand

S. Sheelamary*

Division of Crop Improvement, ICAR- Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Veerakeralam, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 007), India

K. Lakshmi

Division of Crop Improvement, ICAR- Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Veerakeralam, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 007), India

G.K. Sujayanand

Division of Plant Biotechnology, ICAR- Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Kalyanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (208 024), India

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1096 1744485064 Biotica Research Today Production of Daphnia for Freshwater Nursery Rearing of Cultivable Fishes Agriculture 1218-1221

Aquaculture producing the cheapest protein and good source of nutritional food for the human nutrition. However, intensification of aquaculture systems requires supply of high quality seed which indirectly influenced by the supply of live feed. Mass production and supplementation of live feed play a vital role in larval nutrition of aquaculture hatchery practices. The newly hatched larvae are highly relying on live feed which provides nutrients for growth and physiological activities. The Cladoceran like Moina and Daphnia spp. etc. have good source of nutritional food for many cultivable fishes. Daphnia is an inevitable live feed used in freshwater aquaculture. The impotence of commercial feed at early larval culture makes daphnia as potent live feed in many freshwater fish hatcheries. Therefore, the insemination of daphnia culture and their nutritional make up could help the hatchery people to perform well in the near future.

Cladocera, Daphnia, Live Feed, Mass culture NIL 2020-11-30 Popular Article Rameshwar V. Bhosle, Stephen Sampath Kumar J. and Somu Sunder Lingam R.

Rameshwar V. Bhosle1*

Dept. of Aquaculture, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu (628 008), India

Stephen Sampath Kumar J.

Directorate of Sustainable Aquaculture, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu (614 904), India

Somu Sunder Lingam R.

Krishnagiri-Barur Centre for Sustainable Aquaculture, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Barur, Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu (635 201), India

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1097 1744485541 Biotica Research Today Cassava Tuber Rot, (Phytophthora palmivora) – An Emerging Threat to Cassava Production Agriculture 1222-1224

Cassava, Manihot esculenta, is a perennial shrub in the family Euphorbiaceae grown primarily for its storage roots which are eaten as a vegetable. Tuber rot of cassava is a serious problem in Tamil Nadu. The disease is primarily caused by Phytophthora palmivora, and many secondary invaders also get associated with the disease at later stage. Phytophthora root rot is prevalent in waterlogged soils. The disease causes yield losses up to 80% and severe incidence was recorded in black soils, where the cassava was grown frequently. Biocontrol agents (Trichoderma viride) were very effective in reducing fungal growth of the disease.

Cassava, Management, Phytophthora, Tuber rot NIL 2020-11-30 Popular Article R. Arutselvan, Kalidas Pati, Vijay Bahadur Singh Chauhan and Venkatraman Bansode

R. Arutselvan*

Regional Centre, ICAR- Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Kalidas Pati

Regional Centre, ICAR- Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Vijay Bahadur Singh Chauhan

Regional Centre, ICAR- Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

Venkatraman Bansode

Regional Centre, ICAR- Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Dumduma, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 019), India

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1098 1744531827 Biotica Research Today Karnal Bunt Disease of Wheat and Its Management Agriculture 1228-1230

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a source of staple food for humans since ancient times. Numerous factors like varietal reshuffle, intensive cultivation and high input technology are responsible for minor diseases to become major production constraint. One such disease that has caused much concern is Karnal bunt caused by Tilletia indica (Mitra) Mundkur; decreased in quality production of wheat due to prevalence of Karnal bunt by imparting a fishy odour and taste to the wheat. In the absence of strict domestic quarantine regulation, it has spreaded to new areas. The pathogen T. indica is seed and soil-borne and also has an air-borne sporidial stage, so infected seeds are the most important carrier of pathogens for trans-regional and long-distance dispersal of the spores. The fungus enters the grain through the germinal end and converts the kernels into sori filled with teliospores. Early recognition of the pathogen is a critical step in analysis and its management.

Management, Quarantine, Tilletia indica, Wheat NIL 2020-12-02 Popular Article Ramniwas Yadav, P.S. Shekhawat and Sushila Choudhary

Ramniwas Yadav*

Division of Plant Pathology, Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute (RARI), Durgapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 018), India

P.S. Shekhawat

Division of Plant Pathology, Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute (RARI), Durgapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 018), India

Sushila Choudhary

Division of Plant Pathology, Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute (RARI), Durgapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 018), India

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1099 1744561149 Biotica Research Today Progress and Prospect of Nanominerals in Livestock and Poultry Nutrition Agriculture 1231-1233

Minerals constitute a major role in production, reproduction and health of animals. Their deficiency or imbalances in diet lead to reduced growth and production. Nano minerals are mineral particles that exist in nano size (1-100 nm). Their action is attributed to their small size and increased surface area, thus leading to greater bioavailability. They are synthesized by physical, chemical or biological methods. Biological synthesis of Se nano-particle is gaining popularity due to its easily available source and less toxicity. Nano Zn particles could possibly reduce microbes generating methane in anaerobic fermentation. Thus, they reduced methane release and increased microbial biomass production. Sodium selenite nanoparticles were encapsulated by nano-precipitation for controlled release of Se nanoparticles. The release of selenium from nanoparticles was higher in acid (pH < 4), that caused better availability of the mineral in the small intestine.

Antimicrobial, Nanoparticles, Production, Reproduction NIL 2020-12-03 Popular Article Arun Kumar Singh, Sonali Prusty, M.K. Gendley, Piyush Thawkar, Mukesh Sharma, Ashutosh Choubey, Kundan Krishnan and Anupam Soni

Arun Kumar Singh*

Dept. of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Sonali Prusty

Dept. of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

M. K. Gendley

Dept. of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Piyush Thawkar

Dept. of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Mukesh Sharma

Dept. of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Ashutosh Choubey

Dept. of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Kundan Krishnan

Dept. of Animal Nutrition, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

Anupam Soni

Dept. of Livestock Production and Management, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh (491 001), India

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1100 1744561418 Biotica Research Today Blended Nectar of Custard Apple - A Novel Processed Product to Address Nutritional Food Security Agriculture 1234-1235

Custard apple or Sitaphal (Annona squamosa L.) is a deciduous tree having yellowish-green fruit. The fruits are highly perishable but nutritionally rich and delicious. The fruits are harvested for a short period of time during pre-winter. Due to bumper harvest in a short period and perishable nature of fruits, the farmers are compelled to sell their produce at a lower price. Post-harvest processing is not yet suitably standardised. Rapid softening of fruits and marketing is a major problem. The shelf-life of custard apple fruit can be increased upto 12 days if stored at 10 °C, whereas the extracted pulp can be stored for six months with potassium meta-bisulphite. Many value-added products like ready-to-serve beverages, fermented beverage, ice cream, squash, and toffee can be prepared to exploit the nutritional potential and adding a new flavour/ taste. Therefore this paper attempts to outline post-harvest, processing value addition and storage of these fruits.

Blended nectar, Custard apple, Nutritional food security, Sitaphal NIL 2020-12-03 Popular Article Deeksha Gautam, Jyoti Prakash Sahoo and Kailash Chandra Samal

Deeksha Gautam*

Dept. of Fruit Science and Technology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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1101 1744562801 Biotica Research Today Importance and Applications of Remote Sensing in Agriculture Agriculture 1236-1238

With advances in ground-based, airborne, and satellite remote sensing, reflectance data are increasingly being used in agriculture. The article initiates with an overview of the need for remote sensing and main agricultural challenges. This article gives a brief description of various remote sensing applications designed to optimize the profitability of agricultural crop production and protect the environment. It also provides concise knowledge of the use of remote sensing in assessing nutritional requirements of plants, forecasting crop yield, and nutrient content in the soil, determining plant water demand, etc.

Agriculture, Crop yield, Plant protection, Remote sensing NIL 2020-12-06 Popular Article Vaibhav Pratap Singh, Devesh Pathak, Sibte Sayyeda and Ashish Sheera

Vaibhav Pratap Singh*

Dept. of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh (202 002), India

Devesh Pathak

Dept. of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh (202 002), India

Sibte Sayyeda

Dept. of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh (202 002), India

Ashish Sheera

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology (SKUAST), Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir (180 009), India

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1102 1744639935 Biotica Research Today Alternate Wetting and Drying Irrigation (AWDI) with Field Water Tube – A Best Water Saving Technology in Rice Agriculture 1239-1241

Water is becoming more precious commodity than anyone commodity, which is used for household activities, industry and agriculture across the world. Since rice is a staple food for the entire world. Due to the geometrical progression of the human population, the consumption of water is increasing day by day screening crucial limiting factor in all over the world. In this limiting available situation, the need of food to the world population by essential by increasing the rice production with new technologies which are enhance the food grain production by less available water. About 84 percent of water withdrawal is for agriculture, with major emphasis on flooded rice irrigation. Alternate wetting and drying irrigation (AWDI) with field water tube is a best water management technology in irrigated lowland rice that saves water and reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, number of irrigation and pest and disease while maintaining yields.

AWDI, Field water tube, Rice, Water saving NIL 2020-12-07 Popular Article P. Ayyadurai, P. Thukkaiyannan, N. Muthukrishnan and S. Panneerselvam

P. Ayyadurai*

Dept. of Crop Management, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

P. Thukkaiyannan

Dept. of Crop Management, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

N. Muthukrishnan

Dean, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vazhavachanur, Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu (606 753), India

S. Panneerselvam

Director, Water Technology Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore,
Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1103 1744640370 Biotica Research Today Meloidogyne incognita - A Threaten to Cucumber Cultivation under Protected Condition Agriculture 1242-1244

Cucumber is an important vegetable cultivated under polyhouse conditions in the tropical and sub-tropical regions. Cucumber production is majorly limited by infection of root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita and is considered to be an important pest causing severe yield loss. In this study, the presence of M. incognita infecting cucumber under poly house condition in Theni Tamil Nadu was confirmed. Among ten polyhouses surveyed, cucumber cultivated under four polyhouse is infected with M. incognita and infestation ranged from 21 to 33%. Nematode infested plants expressed the typical symptoms viz., stunting, and withering, drooping and sudden wilting of plants. Application of biocontrol agent like Purpureocillium lilacinum or newer chemicals like Fluopyram or Fluensulfone is effective for the management of root-knot nematodes.

Cucumber, Fluensulfone, Meloidogyne incognita, Purpureocillium lilacinum NIL 2020-12-07 Popular Article Senthilraja, C., Sankar, C., Prabhu, S. and Sneha R. Patil

Senthilraja, C.*

Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Kamatchipuram, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

Sankar, C.

Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Kamatchipuram, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

Prabhu, S.

Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Kamatchipuram, Tamil Nadu (625 604), India

Sneha R. Patil

College of Agricultural Technology, Gullapuram, Theni, Tamil Nadu (625 562), India

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1104 1744642731 Biotica Research Today Immunomodulatory effects of a brown seaweed Sargassum fusiforme Agriculture 1245-1246

Seaweed, particularly in Asian countries, has been used as food products and standard healing agents. Sargassum fusiforme (brown seaweed), as it is rich in dietary fibers and minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium, is commonly used in traditional cuisine. Due to its therapeutic benefits, in China, Korea, and Japan, as well as in the United Kingdom and North America, S. fusiforme remains common in diet.

Immunomodulator, Immunotherapy, Polysaccharides; Sargassum fusiforme NIL 2020-12-07 Popular Article Ambika Binesh and Malathi Sampath

Ambika Binesh*

Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, OMR Campus, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

Malathi Sampath

Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, OMR Campus, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

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1105 1744644358 Biotica Research Today Musth in Elephant and Its Management Agriculture 1247-1249

Musth is a periodic reproductive phenomenon occurring in Asian and African male elephants in their post-pubertal age. It is characterized by pronounced change in behavior and physiological condition due to increased androgenic hormone which is seen in form of aggressiveness and increased physical activity. The condition is identified by increased swelling of the temporal gland with brownish discharge and the animal behaves erratically. The management of musth is very essential in captive elephants else the animal may destroy property and could hurt, even kill the Mahouts. Musth animal is basically managed by providing ample rest, which often required tranquilization of the animal and later the animal is tied for some days. During this rest period the animal can be given some calming medication and later on treated for its injury and provided with high nutritious feed to regain the lost strength.

Elephant, Management, Musth, Tranquilization NIL 2020-12-08 Popular Article Dibyajyoti Talukdar, Samir Das and Sourabh Deori

Dibyajyoti Talukdar

Dept. of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University, Selesih, Mizoram (796 014), India

Samir Das

Division of Animal Health, ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Sourabh Deori*

Division of Livestock Production, ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India

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1106 1744685911 Biotica Research Today Insect-Pest Management by Plant Nutrition Agriculture 1250-1251

In the present scenario of agriculture, the most critical problem for increasing crop yield and developing sustainable agriculture is use of sufficient fertilizers and effective crop protection against diseases and herbivores. Plant nutrition status greatly impact on herbivores associated with plants. Best approach to deter insects is offense, especially for plants, it is keeping themselves healthy to sustaining their defenses.

Herbivores, Insect pests, Nutrients, Resistance NIL 2020-12-11 Popular Article Jamunarani G.S., Muddasar, Harshita, A.P. and Sanjiv Duradundi

Jamunarani G.S.*

Dept. of Entomology, University of Horticultural Sciences, Navanagar, Bagalkot, Karnataka (587 104), India

Muddasar

Dept. of Entomology, University of Horticultural Sciences, Navanagar, Bagalkot, Karnataka (587 104), India

Harshita, A.P.

Dept. of Entomology, University of Horticultural Sciences, Navanagar, Bagalkot, Karnataka (587 104), India

Sanjiv Duradundi

Dept. of Entomology, University of Horticultural Sciences, Navanagar, Bagalkot, Karnataka (587 104), India

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1107 1744686102 Biotica Research Today Caste System and Nesting Behavior of Stingless Bees Agriculture 1252-1254

Apiculture is rapidly growing in India as a small scale industry. European and Indian honey bees are highly domesticated across India. But now a day’s domestication of stingless bee is eye catching as they can be easily handled and honey produced by them has many medicinal properties and has wide range of applications. Domestication of stingless bees is not so popular due to lack of knowledge among the people about their behavior and nest characters.

Caste system, Meliponiculture, Nesting, Stingless bees NIL 2020-12-11 Popular Article Nadirla Vamshikrishna, Jamunarani G.S., Amruta M.B. and Muddasar

Nadirla Vamshikrishna*

Dept. of Entomology, University of Horticultural Sciences, Navanagar, Bagalkot, Karnataka (587 104), India

Jamunarani G.S.

Dept. of Entomology, University of Horticultural Sciences, Navanagar, Bagalkot, Karnataka (587 104), India

Amruta M.B.

Dept. of Entomology, University of Horticultural Sciences, Navanagar, Bagalkot, Karnataka (587 104), India

Muddasar

Dept. of Entomology, University of Horticultural Sciences, Navanagar, Bagalkot, Karnataka (587 104), India

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1108 1744697055 Biotica Research Today Controversial Plant Cannabis: A Medicinal Boon or A Drug Agriculture 1258- 1261

Medicinal Cannabis, or medicinal marijuana, is a medication that even in recent times, has received much worldwide attention. A few of the issues associated with this treatment are controversies surrounding legal, ethical and societal implications connected with use; secure implementation, labelling and distributing; adverse health consequences and deaths attributed to marijuana intoxication; and therapeutic indications based on limited experimental research. At present, marijuana is acknowledged by the U.S. The 1970 Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act (Regulated Substances Act) of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA's) as a Schedule I controlled substance, defined as having an abuse potential, no currently accepted medicinal use in treatment in the United States and a shortage of accepted safety information for medical supervision use. House of Representatives passes marijuana legalisation bill, according to recent news from USA TODAY on Dec 4, 2020.

Cannabidiol, Cannabis, Controversy, Drug NIL 2020-12-17 Popular Article Jyoti Prakash Sahoo, Ambika Prasad Mishra and Kailash Chandra Samal

Jyoti Prakash Sahoo*

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Ambika Prasad Mishra

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

Kailash Chandra Samal

Dept. of Agricultural Biotechnology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 003), India

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1109 1744787186 Biotica Research Today PM-KUSUM Scheme in Transforming the Farmers Irrigation Status in Odisha Agriculture 101-103

This study is carried out in Odisha’s Keonjhar and Sambalpur districts, to anlayse the spread of PM-KUSUM scheme in Odisha. The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan scheme (PM-KUSUM) which is launched in the year 2019, is an ambitious scheme of GoI, its goal is to support the unelectrified farmers with renewable solar energy in place of electricity for irrigating the fields. The districts of Odisha have no grid connection for electricity and many of the farmers in the area still remain unelectrified depending on the Kharif rains for cropping. Else the supply of electricity is poor enough that they are not able to rely on it and hence have to depend on diesel pumps for their irrigation needs. The study tries to bring out the new hope that the farmers can see with the solar pumps via PM-KUSUM scheme. The adoption and acceptance level of the scheme with the farmers is measured by perception analysis of the farmers.

OLIC, OREDA, PM-KUSUM, Solar pump NIL 2025-03-28 Popular Article Ankhila R.H., Ranu Rani Sethi, O.P. Verma, Debabrata Sethi and Roomesh Kumar Jena

Ankhila R.H.*

ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 023), India

Ranu Rani Sethi

ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 023), India

O.P. Verma

ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 023), India

Debabrata Sethi

ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 023), India

Roomesh Kumar Jena

ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneswar, Odisha (751 023), India

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1110 1744787592 Biotica Research Today Blockchain Technology in Aquaculture Supply Chains Aquaculture 104-107

Fish and fishery products are important sources of protein around the world, but the way it is caught or raised has been questioned in recent times as important as the product itself. Nowadays, consumers are more interested in knowing the source, whether they are caught or farmed and whether they are processed in a sustainable way. In this context, blockchain technology answers doubts raised by consumers. By implementing blockchain technology, the consumers will be able to obtain digital records that track the fish from its source to their plate. This article explains the working principle of blockchain and its integration in seafood industry. This article also describes the concepts employed in blockchain, types of blockchains, its implementation in seafood traceability and tools used in eventual deployment of blockchains. As the world keeps evolving digitally, blockchain technology has the potential to improve the way people trust seafood from ocean to consumption.

Aquaculture, Blockchain technology, Consumer, Traceability NIL 2025-03-30 Popular Article George Rayventh C., Chidambaram P., Aanand S. and Somu Sunder Lingam R.

George Rayventh C.*

Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalitha Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

Chidambaram P.

Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalitha Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

Aanand S.

Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalitha Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

Somu Sunder Lingam R.

Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalitha Fisheries University, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu (611 002), India

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1111 1744976251 Plant Health Archives Characterization and Evaluation of Endophytic Bacteria from the Ethno-Medicinal Plant Gynura cripidioides (Gende) of North Eastern Himalayan Region, India Plant Biotechnology 123-130

Bacterial endophytes are bacteria that reside internally within plants, flourishing in a distinct environment that protects them from external adversities and changes in environmental circumstances, unlike microbes that live outside. Their entry into plant tissues occurs through specific ‘hotspot’ areas, such as the root system. After gaining entry, the plants use a variety of secondary metabolites, structural component synthesis, plant immunity, resource competition with pathogens, antioxidant activities and phenylpropanoid metabolism to reduce the effects of both biotic and abiotic stressors. From the Gende (Gynura cripidioides; Family: Asteraceae) that was removed from the Pasighat region in the East Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh, India, endophytic bacteria were recovered. This study set out to evaluate and characterise endophytic bacteria for their cpability to enhance plant growth through various means, including phosphate solubilization, IAA production, siderophore production, growth on nitrogen-free media, exo-polysaccharide production, in-vitro evaluation and antagonistic activity analysis.

Bio-control, Endophytes, IAA production, PGPR, Siderophore production https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.4.2024/123-130 2024-10-25 Research Articles Pramod Kumar Pandey, Raj Narain Singh Yadav, Ramkrishna Samanta, Siddhartha Singh, Amit Kumar Singh and Aditya Pratap Singh

Pramod Kumar Pandey*

Centre for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh, Assam (786 004), India

College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Kyrdemkulai, Meghalaya (793 105), India

Raj Narain Singh Yadav

Dept. of Life Sciences, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh, Assam (786 004), India

Ramkrishna Samanta

Dept. of Life Sciences, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh, Assam (786 004), India

Siddhartha Singh

College of Horticulture & Forestry, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh (791 102), India

Amit Kumar Singh

College of Horticulture & Forestry, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh (791 102), India

Aditya Pratap Singh

Dept. of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal (741 252), India

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1112 1744976795 Plant Health Archives Microbial Pesticides in Pest Management Entomology 131-140

This review looks at how modern pest management strategies might use microbial pesticides as well as how they might reduce the negative consequences linked with conventional chemical pesticides. Comprising naturally occurring microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, nematodes and protozoa, microbial pesticides offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic chemicals. Ranging from the development of particular toxins to host-targeted infections causing pest death, their modes of action provide an efficient and environment friendly pest management. This paper follows the historical development of microbial pesticide research and records its gradual incorporation into integrated pest management (IPM) systems. Presented in depth are the ways by which bacterial agents, especially Bacillus thuringiensis, disturb insect physiology by means of toxin-mediated effects. Viral agents are assessed in terms of host specificity and operational safety, especially baculoviruses. While the functions of nematodes and protozoa in the control of soil-dwelling pests are also discussed, fungal pathogens are investigated for their capacity to penetrate insect integuments and invade host tissues. The study also points out and addresses issues including field application uniformity, environmental sensitivity, mass manufacturing constraints and formulation stability. This paper, therefore, combines present research results to offer a thorough knowledge of practical use and microbial pesticide effectiveness and highlights the need of ongoing technical innovation in biopesticide development, hence opening the path for more integrated and sustainable pest management strategies supporting agricultural production and ecological balance.

Bacterial pesticides, Fungal pesticides, Insect viruses, IPM integration, Nematodal pesticides, Protozoan pesticides https://doi.org/10.54083/PHA/2.4.2024/131-140 2024-11-18 Review Articles Rokozeno and Virosanuo Solo

Rokozeno*

Dept. of Entomology, Nagaland University: SAS, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

Virosanuo Solo

AICRP on Linseed, Medziphema Centre, Nagaland University: SAS, Medziphema, Nagaland (797 106), India

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1113 1745172604 Biotica Research Today Agri-Export Startups: Changing the Career of Indian Agriculture Agriculture 1295-1297

Indian agricultural export has undergone vital changes throughout recent times. During this context, this study has analyzed the trend in exports of agricultural commodities from India, the changes at intervals the comparative advantage, the Indian agricultural export situation has witnessed throughout the past decade and thus the prospects for any boosting the agricultural export. There was vital rate of growth of export throughout the past decade with wide distinction across numerous artifact teams. Fruit-vegetable exports from province amounted to Rs. 277.98 only large integer out of that Varanasi and encompassing areas accounted for 40 percent of the amount. There are proposal for export of agriculture commodities from India represent MEIS, Duty disadvantage and Transport and selling help. Government of India promotes export of agriculture commodities by promoting numerous schemes. In addition, these schemes have a giant impact in increasing farmer’s financial gain.

Agri-exports, Business, Middleman, Startups NIL 2020-12-26 Popular Article Vikas Kumar Maurya

Vikas Kumar Maurya

School of Agribusiness & Rural Management, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

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1114 1745173094 Biotica Research Today Significance of White Worm in Aquaculture as A Source of Protein-Rich Live Feed Agriculture 1298-1301

White worm, a marine oligochaete, potential live feed for many aquatic animals, due to their protein richness. White worm culture is quite easy and economical when comparing with other live feed culture methods like Artemia, Rotifer, etc. The white worm is one of the richest sources of protein among the other cultivable live feeds; however, there is no optimal rearing protocol for large-scale production to meet out the live feed requirement of the fast-growing aquaculture sector. The article discusses the culture methods, nutritional quality, and future of white worms in the aquaculture industry, in brief.

Aquaculture, Live feed, Protein rich, White worm NIL 2020-12-27 Popular Article Tamilarasu, A., Nethaji, M., Bharathi, S., Lloyd Chrispin, C. and Somu Sunder Lingam, R.

Tamilarasu, A.*

Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Nethaji, M.

Institute of Fisheries Biotechnology, Vaniyanchavadi, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (603 103), India

Bharathi, S.

Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Lloyd Chrispin, C.

Dr. M.G.R Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (601 204), India

Somu Sunder Lingam, R.

Krishnagiri-Barur Centre for Sustainable Aquaculture, Barur, Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu Dr. J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Tamil Nadu (635 201), India

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1115 1745177216 Biotica Research Today Enhancing Livelihood Security of Small and Marginal Farmers of Tripura through Integrated Farming Systems Agriculture 1302-1304

Charkalak is an autonomous district council (ADC) village under Jampuijala sub-division, Sepahijalla district of Tripura. Farmers are mostly depending on agriculture for their livelihood and income. Lands are mostly hilly and along with some valley type land dominated by traditional rice cultivation, and improper management of upland. Thus, the income from agriculture was generally low in the study area. Therefore, to enhance farmers, food and nutritional security, ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura centre demonstrated integrated farming system (IFS) models on various household of Charkalak ADC, Sepahijalla, Tripura under National Mission on Sustaining Himalayan Ecosystem Task force 6-Agriculture. Adoption of Rice-Pig-Kitchen garden IFS model gave net profit to farmers Rs. 94,500.00 from an area of 0.72 ha. Under Fish-pig IFS model, integration of two pig (one male and one female) with fish pond to fertilize the pond (800 m2) and increases the productivity and income of the system by Rs. 42,320.00 per annum. Thus, study concluded that demonstrated IFS model food, nutritional and livelihood security of small and marginal farmers of Charkalak ADC.

Backyard farming, Fish-pig IFS model, Livelihood security, Rice-Pig-Kitchen garden IFS NIL 2020-12-28 Success story Gulab Singh Yadav, Anup Das, Subhash Babu, Ripan Chnadra Das, Mandakranta Chakraborty and Priyanka Das

Gulab Singh Yadav*

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, West Tripura, Tripura (799 210), India

ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110012), India

Anup Das

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, West Tripura, Tripura (799 210), India

Subhash Babu

ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, Delhi (110012), India

Ripan Chnadra Das

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, West Tripura, Tripura (799 210), India

Mandakranta Chakraborty

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, West Tripura, Tripura (799 210), India

Priyanka Das

ICAR- Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, West Tripura, Tripura (799 210), India

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1116 1745178485 Biotica Research Today 3G Cutting: A Wonderful Technique to Redouble the Production of Cucurbits Agriculture 1308-1310

Cucurbits include Pumpkin, Cucumber, Sponge gourd, Bottle gourd, Bitter gourd, Snake gourd, Ridge gourd, and many more. There is an increasing problem of low fruit set and fruit sets; a very major problem faced by farmers in present time. This problem arises due to the rapid decrease in beneficial insects and other pollinators as a result of the haphazard use of chemical pesticides. This article would provide broader knowledge to the vegetable grower to guide on properly doing 3G cutting in cucurbits plant.

3G cutting, Branches, Cucurbits, Generation NIL 2020-12-28 Popular Article Dilip Kumar Chaurasiya, Mohit Kumar, Sangita Sahni and Siddharth Singh

Dilip Kumar Chaurasiya*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural, University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Mohit Kumar

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural, University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Sangita Sahni

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural, University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar (848 125), India

Siddharth Singh

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal (741 252), India

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1117 1745219230 Biotica Research Today Loose Smut of Wheat Caused by Ustilago tritici and Its Management Agriculture 1311-1313

Among all diseases of wheat, seed-borne disease such as smut is found in every area where the wheat is grown. Loose smut of wheat is occurred in cool and moist climate conditions. The successful infection of loose smut can occur after the anthesis. The pathogen remains dormant in the mature seed and germinates with germinating seeds. The mycelium of the fungus grows in the crown node and finally invades the inflorescence tissues. It develops with the seed embryo. It is disseminated by infected seeds and air by short distance. Most of the inoculums sources of loose smut are infected wheat seeds and air borne teliospores from smutted heads. In every infected areas of wheat by loose smut, a new race may arise by recombination of pre-existing virulence genes or through mutations. So, different types of management systems such as using of certified seeds treated with protectant fungicides, planting of resistant cultivars is very important.

Loose smut, Seed-borne disease, Ustilago tritici, Wheat NIL 2020-12-29 Popular Article Ramniwas Yadav, Anupriya and P.S. Shekhawat

Ramniwas Yadav*

Division of Plant Pathology, Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute (RARI), Durgapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 018), India

Anupriya

Division of Plant Pathology, Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute (RARI), Durgapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 018), India

P.S. Shekhawat

Division of Plant Pathology, Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute (RARI), Durgapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan (302 018), India

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1118 1745220187 Biotica Research Today Plant Secondary Metabolites (PSMs): Elicitation as a Strategy for Enhanced Biosynthesis in Plant Cell Cultures Agriculture 1318-1321

Plant secondary metabolites isolated from the whole plants or trees in wild or from the cultivated plants leads to variation in the level of expression of PSMs as wells as there is questionable availability of raw materials for industrial use. Biotechnological production in plant cell cultures is a promising alternative but with limited commercial success due to poor understanding of how these metabolites is synthesized. Recent strategies deployed for enhanced synthesis of them using elicitors, precursors and selection of high yielding clones are bringing more success and is a big hope for using in vitro systems for PSMs production at industrial scale by the pharma companies.

Elicitors, Plant cell cultures, Plant pharmaceuticals, Secondary metabolites NIL 2020-12-30 Popular Article Rajesh S., Radhamani T., Varanavasiappan, S. and Santhanakrishnan, V.P.

Rajesh S.*

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Radhamani T.

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Varanavasiappan, S.

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

Santhanakrishnan, V.P.

Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1119 1745220644 Biotica Research Today Cooperatives in Maharashtra: Role in Agricultural, Industrial and Employment Generation Agriculture 1322-1324

Since long time cooperatives are working effectively in India. But the large numbers of cooperatives are in Maharashtra and still they are working continuously in sectors of agriculture, industries, finance and more. Agriculture is the important sector in many of the developing countries and cooperatives helping agricultural sector in many ways like in marketing, credit, processing and employment generation. There are many of cooperatives successfully working in India like IFFCO, KRIBHCO, AMUL, etc. who provides number of benefits to the farmers by increased crop productivity and finally through the cooperatives getting profits by efficient marketing of their produce.

Agriculture, Cooperatives, Development, Employment NIL 2020-12-30 Popular Article Shinde Balkrishna Narayan

Shinde Balkrishna Narayan

School of Agribusiness and Rural Management, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Bihar (848 125), India

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1120 1745220944 Biotica Research Today Potential for Economic Utilization of Cassava Starch Factory Wastes Agriculture 1325-1327

The technological advancement in the agro-based industries utilizes the waste materials which are generated during the processing of the raw materials into the finished products. The waste materials are utilized in many ways with proper biotechnological approaches. The cassava bagasse is the one such material which has immense potential for utilized in the preparation of value added products from it. Since the waste materials obtained from the cassava tuber processing have both carbohydrate rich and poor protein materials. These waste materials can be recycled in the production of ecofriendly natural products which will replace the conventional synthetic materials.

Cassava bagasse, Eco-friendly, Factory waste, Recycling NIL 2020-12-30 Popular Article P. Kalaiselvi, E. Parameswari, S. Paul Sebastian, V. Davamani and K. Suganya

P. Kalaiselvi*

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

E. Parameswari

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

S. Paul Sebastian

Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College & Research Institute (ADAC & RI), Trichy, Tamil Nadu (620 009), India

V. Davamani

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

K. Suganya

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India

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1121 1745221575 Biotica Research Today Role of Dietary Management to Cure Gestational Hypertension Agriculture 1328-1330

High blood pressure is the most prevalent health barrier during pregnancy, complicating 10% of pregnancies. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey indicates that the prevalence of hypertension in women aged 20–44 years is 7.7%. Gestational hypertension disorders include gestational hypertension, typically defined as new onset hypertension (>140 mm-hg systolic or >90 mm-hg diastolic blood pressure) arising after 20 weeks' gestation, and Preeclampsia is defined as gestational hypertension induced by proteinuria. Treatment strategies should be low in sodium and fat in consultation regarding chronic hypertension, medication adjustments, and pregnancy hypertension. A healthy and balanced diet that includes whole grains and lots of fruits, vegetables, and potassium can help ease your dilemma about what to eat to cure high blood pressure during pregnancy.

Diet, Gestational, Hypertension, Morbidity NIL 2020-12-31 Popular Article Parvati, Kalpna Gupta and Shraddha Saroj

Parvati*

Dept. of Home Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Kalpna Gupta

Dept. of Home Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

Shraddha Saroj

Dept. of Home Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (221 005), India

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1122 1745244502 Research Biotica Exploring the Efficacy of Beauveria bassiana: A Comprehensive Review on its Role as a Biocontrol Agent for Insect Population Management in Agriculture Entomology 151-160

This paper thoroughly investigates the possibilities of entomopathogenic fungus, especially Beauveria bassiana, as a feasible and eco-friendly substitute for traditional chemical pesticides under the framework of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). In order to lower the excessive reliance on synthetic agrochemicals, the growing problem of pesticide resistance among pest populations and the related negative consequences on environmental and human health drives increasing need to adopt sustainable pest control practices. In this context, entomopathogenic fungi are an important biological control agent because of their inherent pathogenic features, wide host range and several modes of actions. This fungus not only infects and kills many species of insect pests (chewing and sap-sucking) but also interacting endophytically within plant tissues. Their colonization of the plant may strengthen such resistance and enhances the plant's natural defences, which indirectly reduce pests and increase the resilience of plants. Moreover, the development of innovative formulation technologies in recent years has also enhanced the persistence and field efficacy of B. bassiana, allowing its practical usage possible across a wide range of agro-climatic conditions. This fungus, which can be a direct insecticide and cause plant systemic resistance, has several properties that help to reduce reliance on chemical pesticide use. This study has examined the challenges and possibilities of using entomopathogenic fungus and points a way toward the adoption of commercially viable and environmentally sustainable pest control techniques in Indian agriculture and beyond.

Beauveria bassiana, Biocontrol agent, Entomopathogenic fungi, Pathogenicity, Pest control strategies, Lecanicillium lecanii https://doi.org/10.54083/ResBio/6.4.2024/151-160 2024-11-28 Review Articles Sushil Kumar, Garima Saxena, V.P. Prajapati, P.R. Patel, Snehal Patel and K.B. Patel

Sushil Kumar*

Formerly, Dept. of Plant Protection cum P/I RKVY Project, ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat (396 450), India

Garima Saxena

Division of Microbiology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (110 012), India

Amity Institute of Microbial Technology, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh (201 301), India

V.P. Prajapati

Dept. of Plant Protection, ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat (396 450), India

P.R. Patel

Dept. of Plant Protection, ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat (396 450), India

Snehal Patel

Dept. of Plant Protection, ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat (396 450), India

K.B. Patel

Horticulture Polytechnic, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat (396 450), India

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1123 1745905802 Biotica Research Today Biofloc Technology: A Sustainable Smart Technology Aquaculture 125-127

The demand for food is increasing with the continuous rise in global population. Aquaculture is one of the major contributors of cheap animal protein that can overcome malnutrition and meeting of high protein demand. Modern farming practices have become increasingly intensive to produce the required worldwide proteins yet they cause additional environmental damage and adverse effects in groundwater quality and health risks through epidemics. Long-term sustainability requires the implementation of sustainable eco-friendly technologies that were designed to specifically handle these challenges. Biofloc Technology (BFT) represents an innovative solution to turn aquaculture into a sustainable project through its transformation of toxic wastes using carbon sources.

Biofloc technology, C:N ratio, Essentiality, Floc preparation NIL 2025-04-15 Popular Article Barsha Kundu, Kapila Manoj and Kaustubh Bhagawati

Barsha Kundu*

Dept. of Aquatic Biology, Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, Surat, Gujarat (395 007), India

Kapila Manoj

Dept. of Aquatic Biology, Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, Surat, Gujarat (395 007), India

Kaustubh Bhagawati

Dept. of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, AAU, Raha, Nagaon, Assam (782 103), India

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1124 1745906364 Biotica Research Today Regulation of Acid Lime Cultivation: Flowering, Yield and Quality by Utilization of Gibberellic Acid Agriculture 128-129

Acid lime is one among the important fruit crop in the citrus groups and is botanically known as Citrus aurantifolia. Owing to its economic and nutritional significance it is regarded as one of the high value fruit crops. The crop faces constraints such as irregular flowering, poor yield and inadequate fruit quality. These hurdles could be overcome by the use of foliar application of plant growth regulators ensuring higher profitability, sustainability and superior fruit quality. Gibberellic acid (GA), a tetracyclic di-terpenoid molecule, is a plant hormone that promotes plant growth and development. Plant growth, flower development, sex expression, fruit development and fruit quality are impacted by gibberellic acid migration. Therefore, it is necessary for the successful production of crops.

Acid lime, Gibberellic acid, Growth regulator, Yield and quality https://doi.org/10.54083/BRT/7.4.2025/128-129 2025-04-17 Popular Article Pradeep M., Afiya R.S., Santhosh K., Bharkavi E. and A. Ramesh Kumar

Pradeep M.

Dept. of Horticulture, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu (610 005), India

Afiya R.S.

Dept. of Horticulture, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu (610 005), India

Santhosh K.

Dept. of Horticulture, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu (610 005), India

Bharkavi E.

Dept. of Horticulture, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu (610 005), India

A. Ramesh Kumar*

Dept. of Horticulture, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu (610 005), India

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1125 1746254403 Innovative Farming Papaya Mealybug and Its Biological Control - A Review Agriculture 1-7

The papaya mealybug Paracoccus marginatus is likely to invade several countries in the World. Several methods like cultural, chemical, legal and biological have been adopted to tackle the mealybug problem. However only chemical and biological control methods have been widely practiced for the management of mealybugs. Only the host specific parasitoids have given control of P. marginatus. More specifically the hymenopteran parasitoid Acerophagus papayae played a predominant role in suppressing the papaya mealybug in several countries.

Paracoccus marginatus, Acerophagus papaya, Pseudleptomastix Mexicana, Anagyrus loecki NIL 2016-01-03 Review Articles Dipankar Dey

Dipankar Dey

Department of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, India

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1126 1746258389 Innovative Farming Detection of Transgene in Seed and Food Agriculture 15-17

Concerns have been raised globally as to whether these GM products are safe for human beings, animals and to the environment. These concerns have led to demands to regulate and perhaps label seed, feed and food products to inform the consumer whether the products being imported or marketed are made of GM seed or plants. The GMOs can be detected by identifying DNA or RNA or protein. This article deals with the methods of detecting GMOs in DNA as well as in proteins.

Transgene, Protein, GMO NIL 2016-02-20 Popular Article Pujaita Ghosh and Sankar Prasad Das

Pujaita Ghosh*

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra (799210), Tripura, India

Sankar Prasad Das

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra (799210), Tripura, India

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1127 1748007280 Biotica Research Today Nutritional Requirement for a Healthy and Successful Athlete Agriculture 1149-1150

This paper presents the important of different nutrients and sources of nutrients for a healthy and efficient athlete. Nutrition plays a very important role in attaining high level of achievements in sports. Nutritional status has a direct bearing on the level of physical performance. Hence, physical fitness and training are very much dependent on nutritional status of sports personnel.

Athlete, Health, Nutrition, Sportsmen NIL 2020-11-19 Popular Article S. Daisy

S. Daisy

Deputy Director in Physical Education, Community Science College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu (625 105), India

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1128 1748007744 Biotica Research Today Integrating Information and Communication Technology (ICTs) in Education: A Comprehensive Study of Tripura Agriculture 1336-1340

The rapid evolution of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) has significantly transformed various sectors, with education being no exception. This research paper aims to investigate the uses of ICTs in education in the northeastern state of Tripura, India. The study focused to identify the implementation of ICT, tools their impact on teaching, learning and the challenges faced in integrating these technologies into the educational system. It was found in the study that in a sample population of 101, gender distribution reveals 81.19% females and 18.81% males. Social category analysis highlights SC as the highest at 38.61%. College type preferences show 63.37% in government colleges and urban areas are predominant (78.22%). Learning style preferences lean towards modern methods (58.42%). Most respondents hold college-going qualifications (62.38%). ICT handling ability is perceived as medium by 66.34%.

Education, Effectiveness, ICTs, Tripura NIL 2020-12-31 Research Articles Subrata Majumder and Rajib Das

Subrata Majumder

Dept. of Information & Technology, MBB University, Agartala, Tripura (799 204), India

Rajib Das*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra - Khowai, Divyodaya, Chebri, Khowai, Tripura (799 207), India

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1129 1748265784 Innovative Farming Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Yield, Protein Content, Nutrient Content and Uptake of Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] Agriculture 30-34

A field experiment was conducted at Instructional Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan) to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on sorghum productivity during kharif season of 2009. Results showed that recommended dose of fertilizer recorded higher NPK uptake and content in grain and stover of sorghum. Significantly higher protein content, protein yield, grain, stover, biological yield and harvest index was 11.06%, 431.86 kg ha-1, 3910 kg ha-1, 9778 kg ha-1, 13688 kg ha-1 and 28.56% respectively under recommended dose fertilizer than other treatment combination.

Sorghum; INM; Nutrient uptake; Yield; Protein NIL 2016-04-08 Research Articles Arvind Kumar Yadav and P. Singh

Arvind Kumar Yadav*

ICAR-Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal, INDIA

P. Singh

Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur (Rajasthan) - 313 001, INDIA

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1130 1748543822 Innovative Farming Conservation of Crop Wild Relatives and Its Utility Agriculture 45-48

A crop wild relative (CWR) is a wild plant closely related to a domesticated plant, whose geographic origins can be traced to regions known as Vavilov Centers (named for the pioneering botanist Nikolai Vavilov). The development of new varieties is essential to increase the productivity of food crops to match the growing world population but with the advent of climate change and greater ecosystem instability we are sensing the loss of genes and agro-ecosystem instability. CWRs are likely to prove a critical resource in ensuring food security and maintaining sustainable agro-ecosystems for the new millennium; CWRs are essential components of natural and agricultural ecosystems and hence are indispensable for maintaining ecosystem health. Like many wild species, Crop Wild Relatives are on the decline, both at the taxonomic and at the genetic level. Their conservation and sustainable use is very important for improving agricultural production, increasing food security, and maintaining a healthy environment.

Wild relatives, Gene pool, exsitu conservation, insitu conservation NIL 2016-05-08 Popular Article Priyadarshini, S.K., Dhanalakshmi T.N. and Selva Kumar, G.

Priyadarshini, S.K.*

Zonal Agriculture and Horticulture Research Station, Babbur Farm, UAHS, Shimogga

Dhanalakshmi, T.N.

Zonal Agriculture and Horticulture Research Station, Babbur Farm, UAHS, Shimogga

Selva Kumar, G.

DRDO-BU, Life Sciences wing, Coimbatore

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1131 1748596511 Innovative Farming Botanicals in Eco-Friendly Post Harvest Disease Management Agriculture 67-71

Synthetic fungicides are widely used in conventional agriculture to control plant diseases. Post harvest pathogens which causes serious losses annually in Indian fruits and vegetables. The disease is currently managed with synthetic fungicides under post harvest condition by fungicidal dipping. Applied chemical pesticides are one of the effective and fast means for reducing the loss of post-harvest diseases. Nevertheless, the excessive use of these chemicals for controlling fungi in fruit has been counterproductive, causing damage to the environment and humans, with increased demands to reduce the use of these chemicals that accumulate in fruits and vegetables.

Botanicals, Ecofriendly, Fungicides, Post harvest diseases NIL 2016-07-03 Review Articles Parthasarathy Seethapathy, Rajalakshmi Jayaraman, Narayanan Palani and Prabakar Kuppusami

Parthasarathy Seethapathy*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Center for Plant Protection Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore - 641003, Tamil Nadu, India

Rajalakshmi Jayaraman

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Center for Plant Protection Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore - 641003, Tamil Nadu, India

Narayanan Palani

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Center for Plant Protection Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore - 641003, Tamil Nadu, India

Prabakar Kuppusami

PGP College of Agricultural Science, Namakkal - 637405, Tamil Nadu, India

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1132 1748599359 Innovative Farming Polymerase Chain Reaction in Agricultural Technology Agriculture 102-103

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the quick, easy method for generating unlimited copies of any fragment of DNA. This method relies on the exponential amplification of specific DNA fragments, resulting in millions of copies that can serve as templates for different kinds of analyses. The polymerase chain reaction has been elaborated in many ways since its introduction and is now commonly used for a wide variety of applications including genotyping, cloning, mutation detection, sequencing, microarrays, forensics and paternity testing.

Target DNA, Taq Polymerase, Amplifications NIL 2016-08-19 Popular Article Pallavi, N., T.N. Dhanalakshmi, T. Rudramuni, S.K. Priyadarshini and G. Hanumanth Naik

Pallavi, N.*

ZAHRS, Babbur Farm, Hiriyur

T.N. Dhanalakshmi

ZAHRS, Babbur Farm, Hiriyur

T. Rudramuni

ZAHRS, Babbur Farm, Hiriyur

S.K. Priyadarshini

ZAHRS, Babbur Farm, Hiriyur

G. Hanumanth Naik

ZAHRS, Babbur Farm, Hiriyur

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1133 1748599704 Innovative Farming Photoperiodic Control of Flowering Time in Plants Agriculture 104-105

The rotation of the earth results in periodic changes in environmental factors such as day length and temperature. Developmental responses occur in plants to the relative lengths of light and dark periods. The circadian clock is the endogenous mechanism responsible for day-length measurement, and allows plants to anticipate these fluctuations and modulate their developmental programs to maximize adaptation to those environmental cues. Flowering is also a response to the changing in length of day and night as the season progresses. Because flowers produce seeds and flowering is crucially important for the plant to complete its life cycle.

Photoperiodism, Critical length, Phytochrome, Circadian Clock NIL 2016-09-02 Popular Article Pallavi, N., T.N. Dhanalakshmi, T. Rudramuni and G. Hanumanth Naik

Pallavi, N.*

ZAHRS, Babbur Farm, Hiriyur

T.N. Dhanalakshmi

ZAHRS, Babbur Farm, Hiriyur

T. Rudramuni

ZAHRS, Babbur Farm, Hiriyur

G. Hanumanth Naik

ZAHRS, Babbur Farm, Hiriyur

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1134 1748600310 Innovative Farming Exploitation of Heterosis in Cucurbits Agriculture 108-110

Heterosis refers as superiority or inferiority of hybrids over both the parents. Heterosis has been considered as one of the important breakthrough in the field of crop plant. Kolreuter studied artificial tobacco (Nicotiana spp.) hybrids for the first time in 1673. In 1876, heterosis was first described by Charles Darwin and he has concluded that hybrids from unrelated plant types were highly vigorous. In 1908, by Shull and East were individually advocated heterosis breeding as an alternative plant breeding strategy. Later on in 1914, Shull gave the term ‘heterosis’ as the developmental stimulus resulting from the union of different gametes and ‘hybrid vigour’ to manifest effects of heterosis. In vegetables, hybrid vigour was first observed by Hayes and Jones in cucumber for fruit size and fruit number in 1916. Further, Munger was the first to highlight to the possible utilization of F1 hybrids in muskmelon in 1942. In India, first report of hybrid was reported in chilli by IARI, New Delhi. Then continuous hybridization programme to be undertaken in India.

Breeding, Cucurbits, Heterosis NIL 2016-09-18 Popular Article Panchal Bhakti, B., N.B. Patel, A.I. Patel, S.N. Saravaiya and R.V. Tank

Panchal Bhakti, B.*

ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agriculture University, Navsari-396 450, Gujarat, India

N.B. Patel

ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agriculture University, Navsari-396 450, Gujarat, India

A.I. Patel

ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agriculture University, Navsari-396 450, Gujarat, India

S.N. Saravaiya

ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agriculture University, Navsari-396 450, Gujarat, India

R.V. Tank

ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agriculture University, Navsari-396 450, Gujarat, India

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1135 1748600748 Innovative Farming Allele Mining: Modern Tools of Biotechnology Agriculture 111-112

Allele mining is the process of finding the superior allele from the natural population. In other words, introgression of novel or superior allele from wild relatives into cultivated one. Allele mining can be effectively used for discovery of superior alleles, through ‘mining’ the gene of interest from diverse genetic resources. It can also provide insight into molecular basis of novel trait variations and identify the nucleotide sequence changes associated with superior alleles. In addition, the rate of evolution of alleles; allelic similarity/dissimilarity at a candidate gene and allelic synteny with other members of the family can also be studied. Allele mining may also pave way for molecular discrimination among related species, development of allele-specific molecular markers, facilitating introgression of novel alleles through MAS or deployment through genetic engineering (GE).

Allele mining, Tilling, Ecotilling, Sequencing NIL 2016-09-29 Popular Article Tarique Aslam, O.J. Sujayasree, S.P. Das and A.K. Panda

Tarique Aslam*

Dept. of Vegetable Crops, BCKV, Mohanpur

O.J. Sujayasree

Dept. of PHT, UHS, Bagalkot

S.P. Das

Dept. of Vegetable Crops, BCKV, Mohanpur

A.K. Panda

Dept. of Fruit Science, TNAU, Tamil Nadu

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1136 1748601097 Innovative Farming Medicinal Properties of Curry Leaf Agriculture 113-114

Curry leaves are natural flavouring agents with a number of important health benefits, which makes food both healthy and tasty along with pleasing aroma. They contain various antioxidant properties and have the ability to control diarrhea, gastrointestinal problems such as indigestion, excessive acid secretion, peptic ulcers, dysentery, diabetes and an unhealthy cholesterol balance. They are also believed to have cancer fighting properties and are known to help protect the liver. The scientific name of the curry plant is Murraya koenigii Spreng and it belongs to the Rutaceae family.

Curry leaf, Medicinal, Properties NIL 2016-09-27 Popular Article Ingita Gohain

Ingita Gohain

KVK (ICAR), South Tripura, India

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1137 1748601357 Innovative Farming Role of Secondary Metabolites in Plant Defense Agriculture 115-118

Secondary metabolites, which are a characteristic feature of plants, are important and can protect plants against various microorganisms (Virus, Bacteria, Fungi) and herbivores (Arthropods, Vertebrates). So, host plant resistance to insects, particularly, induced resistance, can also be manipulated with the use of chemical elicitors of secondary metabolites, which confer resistance to insects. Induced resistance could be exploited as an important tool for the pest management to minimize the amounts of insecticides used for pest control.

Metabolites, Terpenes, Phenol, Flavonoid NIL 2016-10-06 Review Articles D. Dey

D. Dey*

Dept. of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar - 751003, India

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1138 1748603202 Innovative Farming Arsenic (As): A Major Threat to the People of Lower Indo Gangetic Plains (IGP) of West Bengal Agriculture 129-133

Arsenic with its varied adverse health effects has become a serious concern to the people of this part of the country. The extent of its contamination is advancing in a rapid rate due to havoc extraction of groundwater for drinking and irrigation purpose. In this situation it is very much needed to employ several preventive and mitigation option such as use of arsenic free drinking water, harvesting of rain water for drinking purpose, adoption of low cost infiltration system to minimize its level below the permissible limit, cultivation of low water requirement crops as well as cultivars with low As loading etc. to minimize its contamination and keep the people away from its exposure.

Arsenic, Threat, Gangetic NIL 2016-10-20 Popular Article Nirmal Kumar Dinda, Ashim Datta and Madhu Choudhary

Nirmal Kumar Dinda*

Department of Agronomy, BCKV, Mohanpur, Nadia, WB - 741252, India

Ashim Datta

Division of Soil and Crop Management, ICAR–CSSRI, Karnal, Haryana - 132001, India

Madhu Choudhary

Division of Soil and Crop Management, ICAR–CSSRI, Karnal, Haryana - 132001, India

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1139 1748603474 Innovative Farming Insecticides as Environmental Contaminants and their Remediation Agriculture 134-136

The air we breathe is an essential ingredient for our wellbeing and a healthy life. Unfortunately, polluted air is common throughout the world especially in developed countries from 1960s. The WHO states that one sixth of the world’s population, approximately 1.1 billion people do not have access to safe water and the major man-made sources of ambient air and water pollution include insecticides (European Public Health Alliance (EPHA)).

Insecticide, environment, contaminant NIL 2016-10-26 Popular Article Mukesh Kumar Jat, G.L. Kakraliya and S.K. Kakraliya

Mukesh Kumar Jat

S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner CCS Haryana Agriculture University, Hisar, Haryana, India

G.L. Kakraliya

S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner CCS Haryana Agriculture University, Hisar, Haryana, India

S.K. Kakraliya*

S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner CCS Haryana Agriculture University, Hisar, Haryana, India

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1140 1748603770 Innovative Farming Biochar for Soil Health Enhancement and Crop Productivity Improvement Agriculture 137-140

Most of the crop residues, agro-industrial wastes and agricultural by-products create management problems to farmers in agronomic practices in fields. If these materials are converted into biochar by pyrolysis technique, then it may be a significant opportunity for maintaining soil health as well as crop productivity. Biochar positively affects the physical, chemical and biological properties of soil, but effects vary from soil to soil. Physical and chemical characteristics of biochar depend upon types of feedstocks and pyrolysis conditions. Biochar production on a large scale is a major constraint in adoption of this technology, because of non-existence of any sustainable technology. There is need of future research for promoting the use of biochar on large scale. It is essential to make low-cost and eco-friendly production units of biochar for farmers to exploit its potential.

Biochar, Soil, Productivity NIL 2016-10-26 Popular Article Awtar Singh, V. Singh, Arijit Barman, Sagar Vibhute, R.S. Tolia and A.P. Singh

Awtar Singh*

Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal - 132001, Haryana, India

A.P. Singh

Dept. of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi - 221005, U.P., India

V. Singh

Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal - 132001, Haryana, India

Arijit Barman

Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal - 132001, Haryana, India

Sagar Vibhute

Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal - 132001, Haryana, India

R.S. Tolia

Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal - 132001, Haryana, India

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1141 1748604141 Innovative Farming Importance of Arecanut Sheath Used as a Cattle Fodder Agriculture 141-142

Arecanut palm (Areca catechu Linn) is a tropical crop and it is grown under variety of climatic conditions. The arecanut tree sheds about 10 sheaths per year hence total production of sheaths is around 4380 sheaths per year per hectare. Arecanut is an important commercial crop, considering its higher economic profitability and relatively low investment many farmers have replaced paddy cultivation with arecanut, resulting in shortage of paddy straw for its use as animal fodder. The sheath attached to the leaf of arecanut tree is not only used for commercial plate making. But recently the arecanut sheath was found to be used as a dry fodder for cattle, as an alternative to paddy straw.

Arecanut sheath, Animal fodder NIL 2016-11-06 Popular Article Shashikumar, M. Anantachar, M. Veerangouda, K.V. Prakash and Prahlad

Shashikumar*

Dept. of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, CAE, Raichu

M. Anantachar

Dept. of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, CAE, Raichur

M. Veerangouda

Dept. of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, CAE, Raichur

K.V. Prakash

Dept. of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, CAE, Raichur

 

Prahlad

KVK, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka

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1142 1748604942 Innovative Farming Conservation of Rare Endangered and Threatened (RET) Medicinal Plants of Western Ghats Agriculture 147-154

In the process of rapid modernization and advancement of medical sciences, partially documented or undocumented knowledge on ethno-medicine began to deplete drastically. The Western Ghats is very rich in its medicinal wealth. The RET medicinal plants are rare, endangered and threatened forest species, that are grown and multiplied naturally in restricted areas. These RET medicinal plant species play a very important role as folk remedies against many diseases. It is important to conserve the RET medicinal plants in its natural environment or cultivating it in favourable environments and to bring the information in various sources into one roof.

Conservation, endangered, medicinal plant NIL 2016-11-09 Popular Article Pranay Kumar and Anusree Anand

Pranay Kumar*

Dept. of Spices and Plantation Crops, Faculty of Horticulture, BCKV, Mohanpur, West Bengal, India

Anusree Anand

Dept. of Post-Harvest Technology, College of Horticulture, UHS, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India

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1143 1748605933 Innovative Farming Botanicals in Organic Farming Agriculture 159-162

Botanical pesticides are agricultural pest management agents which are based on plant extracts. In modern times these have been used as alternatives to synthetic chemicals in organic pest management. The practice of using plant materials against field and storage pests however has a long history in many indigenous and traditional farming communities across the world. The ecological pest management is a holistic method based on the synergy of a variety of farming practices. Indigenous knowledge which is holistic, site-specific and experience based has therefore much to offer modern endeavours to practice a more sustainable agriculture and pest management strategies which consider the welfare of both humanity and the environment.

Botanicals, Organic, Pests, Management NIL 2016-11-23 Popular Article Pranay Kumar and Anusree Anand

Pranay Kumar*

Dept. of Spices & Plantation Crops, Faculty of Horticulture, BCKV, Mohanpur, West Bengal, India

Anusree Anand

Dept. of Post-Harvest Technology, College of Horticulture, UHS, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India

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1144 1748606520 Innovative Farming Exploring NPR1 Gene in Crop Plants Agriculture 168-170

Living organisms always need to confront biotic and abiotic stresses and this remains utmost important and evident in case of plants. Among the biotic stresses, plant diseases have played significant role in crop production. Many approaches have been accomplished for studying the nature of disease thus facilitating resistance development strategies. Large numbers of experiments have been conducted based on Pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins that bring about the plant defence response. Among the many PR genes, NPR1 (Non-Expressor of Pathogenesis) has been one of the important master regulator switch involved in stress responsive PR gene expression. Living organisms always need to confront biotic and abiotic stresses and this remains utmost important and evident in case of plants. Among the biotic stresses, plant diseases have played significant role in crop production. Many approaches have been accomplished for studying the nature of disease thus facilitating resistance development strategies. Large numbers of experiments have been conducted based on Pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins that bring about the plant defence response. Among the many PR genes, NPR1 (Non-Expressor of Pathogenesis) has been one of the important master regulator switch involved in stress responsive PR gene expression.

NPR1 gene, PR proteins, stress response, systemic acquired resistance, gene expression, plant defense NIL 2016-11-24 General Articles Poornima K. Narayana and Neetu S. Kushwah

Poornima K. Narayana*

Division of Plant Biotechnology, ICAR-IIPR, Kanpur, India

Neetu S. Kushwah

Division of Plant Biotechnology, ICAR-IIPR, Kanpur, India

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1145 1748606978 Innovative Farming Allium Diseases: A Global Perspective Agriculture 171-178

Allium crops were well known slightly perishable spicy vegetables. It is highly valued as anti drug, odor and flouring agents. The success of alliums global market is its inherent ability to be stored for long time. About 35-40% crop is lost due to damage caused by field and storage diseases. The fungal bulb rot imparts to about 15-30% losses during storage of different varieties. There are diverse fungal, oomycetes and bacterial pathogens like Alternaria porri, Aspergillus niger, Botrytis allii, Colletotrichum circinans, Dikeya chrysanthemi, Erwinia carotovora, Fuarium oxysporum, Peronospora destructor, Phytophthora nicotianae, Pythium spp., Rhizopus stolonifer and some viral agents which attacks alliums during the field and post-harvest storage period. Amongst all Alternaria porri is the most virulent fungal pathogen in the field. The preventive approach of using fungicides to reduce the disease incidence is insufficient to provide safe for human consumption and may be hazardous for the human health due to residual impact issues. Therefore, it is mandatory to develop novel integrated strategies to reduce the crop losses by the potent application of newer molecules, bioagents and adotation of sanitation, crop rotation or in the form of combinations.

Allium, Diseases, Fungi, Garlic, Onion NIL 2016-11-26 Review Articles S. Parthasarathy, S. Rajamanickam and M. Muthamilan

S. Parthasarathy*

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Centre for Plant Protection Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore - 641003, India

S. Rajamanickam

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Centre for Plant Protection Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore - 641003, India

M. Muthamilan

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Centre for Plant Protection Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore - 641003, India

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1146 1748608307 Innovative Farming Modern Cowpea Breeding Helps in Adapting Climate Change Agriculture 183-185

Cowpea is multi-purpose crop because it is used as vegetable, grain, green manure, fodder and pasture crop. It provides strong support to the livelihood of small-scale farmers through its contributions to their nutritional security, income generation and soil fertility enhancement. Climate change poses a fundamental threat to the places, species and people's livelihoods. Crop yields of cowpea will be fall within the next decade due to climate change. Therefore, by using modern breeding methods and development of suitable cultivar will increase adaptation to climate change.

Cowpea, breeding, climate NIL 2016-11-29 Review Articles Himani B. Patel, A.I. Patel, S.N. Saravaiya and Prayagbhai Golakiya

Himani B. Patel*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, ASPEE College of Horticulture & Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari - 396 450, Gujarat, India

A.I. Patel

Dept. of Vegetable Science, ASPEE College of Horticulture & Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari - 396 450, Gujarat, India

S.N. Saravaiya

Dept. of Vegetable Science, ASPEE College of Horticulture & Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari - 396 450, Gujarat, India

Prayagbhai Golakiya

Dept. of Vegetable Science, ASPEE College of Horticulture & Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari - 396 450, Gujarat, India

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1147 1748608607 Innovative Farming Post Harvest Management of Pulse Agriculture 186-189

Pulses form an integral part of Indian diets. Being are rich source of protein, their major importance lies as supplement to cereal based diets. Pulses not only add to the quantity of protein in the diet but also improve its qualities by balancing the essential amino acid pattern in the mixed diets. India is a major producer of pulses in the world. Various post harvest technique should be used to minimize post harvest losses. Efficient post harvest management techniques includes pre-drying to reduce moisture level followed by threshing and again drying to further reduce the moisture. The selection of a suitable drying system is also very important aspect for desired outcomes.

Pulses, Post harvest management NIL 2016-11-19 Popular Article Rupesh Kumar Gajbhiye, Yogesh Kumar Sidar and Akash Nirmal

Rupesh Kumar Gajbhiye*

Dept. of Entomology, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (CG) - 492001, India

Yogesh Kumar Sidar

Dept. of Entomology, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (CG) - 492001, India

Akash Nirmal

Dept. of Entomology, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur (CG)-492001, India

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1148 1748609284 Innovative Farming Implementation of NFSM through Government of India: Increase Pulses Production Agriculture 192-195

The National Development Council (NDC) in its 53rd meeting held on 29th May, 2007 adopted a resolution to launch a Food Security Mission comprising rice, wheat and pulses to increase the production of rice by 10 million tons, wheat by 8 million tons and pulses by 2 million tons by the end of the Eleventh Plan (2011-12). Accordingly, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, 'National Food Security Mission' (NFSM), was launched in October 2007. The Mission is being continued during 12th Five Year Plan with new targets of additional production of food grains of 25 million tons of food grains comprising of 10 million tons rice, 8 million tons of wheat, 4 million tons of pulses and 3 million tons of coarse cereals by the end of 12th Five Year Plan. The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) during the 12th Five Year Plan will have five components (i) NFSM-Rice; (ii) NFSM-Wheat; (iii) NFSM-Pulses, (iv) NFSM Coarse cereals and (v) NFSM-Commercial Crops. Accelerated Pulses Production Programme (A3P) is another step forward for vigorous implementation of the pulse development under the NFSM-Pulses. A3P has been conceptualized to take up the active propagation of key technologies such as Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in a manner that creates catalyzing impact by assuring farmers of the higher returns from the identified pulse crops.

NFSM-Pulses, NDC, A3P, IPM NIL 2016-12-07 Popular Article Lokesh Kumar Tinde, Gyanendra Kumar, Arbind Kumar Sai and Dinesh Kumar Marapi

Lokesh Kumar Tinde*

Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, District Nadia, West Bengal, India

Gyanendra Kumar

Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, District Nadia, West Bengal, India

Arbind Kumar Sai

Indira Gandhi Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India

Dinesh Kumar Marapi

Indira Gandhi Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India

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1149 1748610845 Innovative Farming Diseases and Insect Pest Management Strategies in Fieldpea Agriculture 209-212

Diseases and insect pests are the major bottleneck to attain the full potential of productivity in fieldpea. It has been witnessed that during 1970’s, when the area of fieldpea reduced to just half due to wide spread occurrence of only one disease i.e. powdery mildew. Therefore adoption of proper management practices and available resistant varieties for respective diseases and insect pests is the best strategy to avoid yield damage and to get higher yield. In this particular article we just elaborated about major diseases and insect pests and their management strategies.

Fieldpea, insect, disease, management NIL 2016-12-19 Popular Article A.K. Parihar, R.K. Mishra and G.P. Dixit

A.K. Parihar*

ICAR-Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Kanpur - 208024, INDIA

R.K. Mishra

ICAR-Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Kanpur - 208024, INDIA

G.P. Dixit

ICAR-Indian Institute of Pulses Research, Kanpur - 208024, INDIA

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1150 1748611073 Innovative Farming Broad Bean a Multipurpose Legume Vegetable Crop Agriculture 213-216

Broad bean, like other beans, is a good source of calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fibre. It is also rich in phosphorus, iron, potassium, and vitamin B complex. However, the occurrence of some antinutritional factors such as phytohemaglutinins, protease inhibitors, polyphenols, saponins, phytates, etc. has hampered a wider nutritional utilization of this legume. Athough an incredible crop, unfortunately in India it is categorized as minor, underutilized, less utilized, and still not fully exploited crops. It is rabi pulse / legume of Northern plains and grown during rainy season in the foothills. It is a wonderful legume which can grow in profitable manner in wide range of pH (5.5 to 9.0) and ability to excel under almost all type of climatic conditions coupled with its wide adoptability to all range of soil environment.

Broad bean, faba bean, Vicia faba NIL 2016-12-19 Popular Article Vivek Kumar Kurrey and Priti Anant

Vivek Kumar Kurrey*

Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur - 492012, Chhattisgarh, India

Priti Anant

Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur - 492012, Chhattisgarh, India

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1151 1748611521 Innovative Farming Onion: The Boon for Health Agriculture 220-222

Onion is an important and indispensable item and can be found in almost every kitchen around the world. It is an important condiment and vegetable for Indians. The green leaves and bulbs are eaten either raw or used in the preparation of several recipes. It holds a great position in the Indian food market on account of its special characteristics of pungency and indispensability. This article focuses on the nutritional benefits of this important condiment. Numerous health benefits have been attributed to the vegetable, including prevention of cancer and cardiovascular disorders. Onions contain chemical compounds such as phenolics and flavonoids that basic research shows to have potential anti-inflammatory, anti-cholesterol, anticancer and antioxidant properties. These include quercetin and its glycosides quercetin 3,4’-diglucoside and quercetin-4'-glucoside.

Onion, Medicinal, health, Nutritional, benefit NIL 2016-12-26 Popular Article Vivek Kumar Kurrey and Omesh Thakur

Vivek Kumar Kurrey*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh - 492012, India

Omesh Thakur

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh - 492012, India

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1152 1748618099 Innovative Farming Management of Citrus Trunk Borer in Tinsukia District of Assam - A Success Story Agriculture 19-21

Citrus trunk borer is one of the major pests of Khasi mandarin in Tinsukia district of Assam. About 15-60 per cent damage was observed due to the insect infestation. FLDs conducted by KVK, Tinsukia from 2012-13 to 2015-16 in few declining Khasi mandarin orchards on “Management of citrus trunk borer” using improved protection measures for trunk borer developed by Citrus Research Station, Assam Agricultural University; Tinsukia. Results of the FLDs showed that the increased average yield in the rejuvenated orchards were recorded about 23 per cent during the period of intervention with a B: C ratio of 4.33:1 compared to  B: C ratio of 2.31:1 before intervention. Citrus trunk borer is one of the major pests of Khasi mandarin in Tinsukia district of Assam. About 15-60 per cent damage was observed due to the insect infestation. FLDs conducted by KVK, Tinsukia from 2012-13 to 2015-16 in few declining Khasi mandarin orchards on “Management of citrus trunk borer” using improved protection measures for trunk borer developed by Citrus Research Station, Assam Agricultural University; Tinsukia. Results of the FLDs showed that the increased average yield in the rejuvenated orchards were recorded about 23 per cent during the period of intervention with a B: C ratio of 4.33:1 compared to  B: C ratio of 2.31:1 before intervention.

Khasi mandarin, Citrus trunk borer, Rejuvenation, FLD NIL 2017-01-25 Success story R.K. Nath, P. Ahmed and A.C. Sarmah

R.K. Nath*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Assam Agricultural University, Tinsukia, Assam-786 125, INDIA

P. Ahmed

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Assam Agricultural University, Tinsukia, Assam-786 125, INDIA

A.C. Sarmah

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Assam Agricultural University, Tinsukia, Assam-786 125, INDIA

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1153 1748622293 Innovative Farming Intervention of Multitasking PGPR in Pulse Production under Stress Conditions Agriculture 41-44

Pulse production in India is subjected to different environmental stresses. Moreover, in order to feed the world, increasing production without causing harm to the environment has become the central concept of sustainable agriculture. The intensive use of chemicals pollutes the environment and calls the attention of researchers to figure out alternatives for pulse cultivation in a sustainable manner. Utilization of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in pulse production has been reported to be beneficial not only in maintaining the optimum yield but also in cutting down the cost of cultivation. Some of the PGP traits considered especially for pulse production under stress conditions are nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, sulfur oxidation, production of enzymes such as ACC-deaminase and IAA-like substances, exopolysaccharide production, and bioprotection.

PGPR, ACC-deaminase, IAA, Nitrogen fixation, Exopolysaccharide NIL 2017-02-13 Popular Article Anandkumar Naorem, Shiva Kumar Udayana, Gyanendra Kumar and Aritra Kumar Mukherjee

Anandkumar Naorem*

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

Shiva Kumar Udayana

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

Gyanendra Kumar

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

Aritra Kumar Mukherjee

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

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1154 1748622805 Innovative Farming Organic Agriculture Expands and Contributes to Sustainable Food Security Agriculture 45-48

Global food security problems have raised concerns on the best agricultural practices that will stand the test of time to replace the already failing conventional agriculture. Yields are reportedly decreasing despite the increasing use of inputs. To solve this problem, research has revealed that organic agriculture can get the needed results in a more sustainable manner. The impacts of organic production up-scaled to regional and global levels give an initial quantification of the potential extent of changes that large-scale conversion might induce.

Organic agriculture principles, Food security, Sustainable agriculture NIL 2017-02-17 Popular Article Aritra Kumar Mukherjee, Sajal Pati, Animash Ghosh Bag, Nitin Chatterjee and Biplab Pal

Aritra Kumar Mukherjee

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

Sajal Pati*

Assistant Director of Agriculture, Sandeshkhali-II Block, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, INDIA

Animash Ghosh Bag

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

Nitin Chatterjee

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

Biplab Pal

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

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1155 1748623693 Innovative Farming Hydroponics: An Alternative Tool for Growing Crops Agriculture 49-51

Soil-based agriculture is facing some major challenges with the advent of civilization all over the world, such as decreased per capita land availability. Apart from this, due to rapid urbanization and industrialization as well as threats from climate change and its related adverse effects, land cultivation is going to further face challenging threats. Under such circumstances, in the near future it becomes intricate to feed the entire population using the production from soil field systems. Hydroponics (soilless culture) techniques involve producing crops in nutrient solution with a sterile media to support the roots. Hydroponic growing uses mineral nutrient solutions to feed the plants in water, without soil. The nutrient solutions usually contain micronutrients, secondary and trace nutrients. Soilless culture is the fastest-growing sector of agriculture, and it could be an impetus to food production in the future.

Hydroponics, Aeroponics, Nutrient film technique NIL 2017-02-18 Popular Article Omesh Thakur, Savita Patel, Dileshwari, Ritika and Aradhana Dhruw

Omesh Thakur*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, INDIA

Savita Patel

Dept. of Vegetable Science, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, INDIA

Dileshwari

Dept. of Plant Soil and Water Engineering, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, INDIA

Ritika

Dept. of Plant Pathology, Vasant Rao Naik Marathawada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, Maharashtra, INDIA

Aradhana Dhruw

Dept. of Plant Physiology, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, INDIA

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1156 1748629488 Innovative Farming Nutritional Value of Pulses and their Importance in Human Life Agriculture 57-62

Pulses are among the most extensively used foods in the world. A wide variety of pulses can be grown globally, making them important both economically as well as nutritionally. In terms of nutritional aspects, pulses have been an important source of plant-based protein in developing countries, where animal-based protein is lacking. Pulse crop is a rich source of carbohydrate, protein, fat, vitamins and micronutrient such as iron, zinc. Consumption of half a cup of beans or peas per day can enhance diet quality by increasing intakes of these nutrients. In conclusion, including pulses in the diet is a healthy way to meet dietary recommendations and is associated with reduced risk of several chronic diseases.

Cancer, diabetes, gluten, oligosaccharide NIL 2017-02-28 Popular Article Aritra Kumar Mukherjee, Anandkumar Naorem, Shiva Kumar Udayana and Gyanendra Kumar

Aritra Kumar Mukherjee

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

Anandkumar Naorem

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

Shiva Kumar Udayana*

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

Gyanendra Kumar

Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

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1157 1748631041 Innovative Farming Straw Yield Monitoring System: A Precision Farming Tool Agriculture 77-79

Straw mass assessment to quantify the variations in crop yield within a field is viewed as an important element in understanding the farming process. Yield monitoring is one of the most important operations for efficient management of agricultural fields. This yield is found to spatially vary within the same field, where mapping this variation is considered as one of the fundamental elements of precision agriculture. This understanding can greatly help improve farming practices, productivity and in the reduction of negative environmental impacts. The traditional way of assessing straw mass is laborious and time consuming. Several manufacturers of forage harvesting machines are presently implementing mass flow sensors and bale weighing system in their machines to serve as yield monitoring systems. But these methods will give only yield of the total field. In order to obtain variation of yield data within the field, a GPS mounted yield monitoring system is got much scope in the area of straw yield monitoring.

Baler, Precision Agriculture, Straw, Yield Monitoring NIL 2017-03-16 Popular Article D.J. Shrinivasa, A. Khadatkar and S.M. Mathur

D.J. Shrinivasa*

Dept. of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, College of Technology and Engineering, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan - 313001, India

A. Khadatkar

Dept. of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, College of Technology and Engineering, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan - 313001, India

S.M. Mathur

Dept. of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, College of Technology and Engineering, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan - 313001, India

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1158 1748631311 Innovative Farming Prosopis juliflora: A Tree for Rehabilitating Salt Affected Soils Agriculture 80-83

The earth is experiencing a faster change in climate in the 21st century than it had in the past. Abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity, exacerbated by the fast changing climatic conditions pose a major hurdle in sustaining crop productivity. High salt concentration in the soil is a serious problem in vast areas of otherwise productive agricultural lands in India. Establishment of salt tolerant vegetation could be an effective way of ameliorating this problem. Prosopis juliflora has a lot of potential for rehabilitating and management of salt affected soils. Being a source of fuel, small timber wood and in some cases used as dry season fodder, Prosopis is playing a vital role in sustaining the livelihoods of the rural poor, society with disadvantaged resources including the landless labourers, small farmers and artisans in dry regions.

Prosopis juliflora, Agroforestry, Rehabilitization NIL 2017-03-17 Popular Article Vijayata Singh, Jogendra Singh, T.V. Vineeth and P.C. Sharma

Vijayata Singh*

Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana-132001, INDIA

Jogendra Singh

Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana-132001, INDIA

T.V. Vineeth

Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana-132001, INDIA

P.C. Sharma

Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana-132001, INDIA

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1159 1748631973 Innovative Farming Soil Carbon Sequestration to Mitigate Climate Change and Food Insecurity Agriculture 90-93

Climate change caused by increased temperature and atmospheric carbon-dioxide concentration has brought the global food insecurity. The natural global carbon cycle has been disturbed with increased human induced CO₂ emission. Soil carbon sequestration is a major means to overcome this concern by transferring the atmospheric CO₂ into soil for long term use by means of proper land use and agronomic practices. The prime object for the effort is to slow down the rapid rise of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Upon sequestering the atmospheric CO₂ into the soil, the atmospheric CO₂ level gets reduced and beside this, soil organic carbon releases nutrients for plant growth, promotes the chemical, biological and physical properties of the soil, and acts as a buffer against harmful substances which ultimately enhances the crop production. Soil organic carbon is part of the natural carbon cycle, and the world’s soils hold around twice the amount of carbon that is found in the atmosphere and in vegetation. Organic carbon gets assimilated within the plant system through photosynthesis using carbon dioxide from the air and water. The vegetative parts, animals, human and other living beings after death return to the soil where they are decomposed and recycled. It increases agricultural production with enhanced soil physical, chemical and biological properties and facilitates environmental benefits leading to improved food system stability to fight world hunger.

Climate change, Food insecurity, Mitigation, Carbon sequestration NIL 2017-03-21 Popular Article Pradeep Kumar, Sandeep Kumar, S.K. Kakraliya and C.K. Jangir

Pradeep Kumar*

Dept. of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana - 125004, INDIA

Sandeep Kumar

Dept. of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana - 125004, INDIA

S.K. Kakraliya

Dept. of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana - 125004, INDIA

C.K. Jangir

Dept. of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana - 125004, INDIA

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1160 1748632305 Innovative Farming Sustaining Rice-Wheat Cropping System through Green Manuring Agriculture 94-96

The rice-wheat cropping system is believed to cause a considerable depletion of soil nutrients and thereafter long-term productivity is threatening as both the crops in the system are exhaustive in nature. In such a situation, green manuring had an imperative role towards improving crop productivity along with maintaining soil fertility. Green manuring with dhaincha, sunhemp, and mungbean after the harvest of wheat crop in summer months and consequently incorporated into the soil that add organic matter, nitrogen, and other essential plant nutrients. In addition, these crops are able to fix atmospheric nitrogen and thus contribute to nitrogen needs of the subsequent crop i.e. rice.

Dhaincha, Green manuring, Mungbean, Rice-wheat cropping system, Sunhemp NIL 2017-03-29 Popular Article Sandeep Kumar, Navish Kumar Kamboj, Ram Swaroop Meena and Suresh Kumar Kakraliya

Sandeep Kumar*

Dept. of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana - 125004, INDIA

Navish Kumar Kamboj

Dept. of Agronomy, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab - 141004, INDIA

Ram Swaroop Meena

School of Environment and Natural Resources, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH - 43210, USA

Suresh Kumar Kakraliya

Dept. of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana - 125004, INDIA

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1161 1748715187 Innovative Farming Constraints and Prospects of Traditional Pig Husbandry for Tribal Livelihood in Jharkhand Agriculture 101-107

In India there is tremendous increase in pig farming due to high demand of animal product for human consumption. A study has been undertaken to appraise the in depth scenario of traditional pig production systems and to identify the problems where scientific intervention would be initiated for further improvement in production. Survey was conducted with designed questionnaire in selected villages of five different districts of Jharkhand. A total of 400 respondents were interviewed on different aspects of socio–economic status, routine management, health care practices and market linkage associated with pig husbandry. Majority of pig farmers belongs to lower income group, small and medium land holding capacity, low educational level with average family size of 4 to 10 members, small scale low input pig farming at intensive system prevails in Jharkhand. The major constraints included high cost of concentrate feed (90.28%), non-availability of medicine vaccine and veterinary health care (86.67%), high cost of initial investment in housing and piglets procurements (73.56%), frequent disease outbreak and mortality of piglets and adult stock (48.89%), lack of availability of good breeding boar (49.27%), availability of market linkage (54.46%), etc. Scientific interventions in utilization of non-conventional feed resources, capacity building, market linkage for inputs and pig produce, extension of health care services, making availability of quality pig germplasm, making availability of quality feed ingredients and insure availability to improved crossbred piglets at village level could transform the traditional pig farming to a profitable enterprises.

Pig farming, Livelihood, Socio-economic NIL 2017-04-24 Research Articles Satish Kumar, Ritesh Dube and Neeraj

Satish Kumar*

GVT-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Godda, Jharkhand-814133, INDIA

Ritesh Dube

GVT-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Godda, Jharkhand-814133, INDIA

Neeraj

Sundaresan School of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, SHIATS, Uttar Pradesh-211007, INDIA

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1162 1748716048 Innovative Farming Studies on Varietal Resistance in Soybean against Root Rot and Collar Rot Diseases Agriculture 108-110

Root rot caused by Macrophomina phaseolina and collar rot caused by Sclerotium rolfsii are the major threat for the successful production of soybean in India. Use of resistant varieties is considered as an economical and durable method of controlling these diseases. Therefore, fifteen soybean cultivars were evaluated by pot culture under epiphytotic conditions. Study of varietal resistance revealed that, among 15 varieties tested, none of the cultivar was found immune as well as moderately resistant or tolerant to both the diseases. Five cultivars (JS-93-05, TAMS-98-21, AMS-99-24, NRC-64, JS-335) were reported moderately susceptible and ten (JS-71-05, AMS-99-16, AMS-92-32, TAMS-38, NRC-67, AMS-99-3, AMS-47, Bragg, AMS-353, AMS-56) were found highly susceptible to root rot and collar rot diseases.

Soybean, Screening, Root rot, Collar rot NIL 2017-04-29 Short Communication Swapnil Konde, Rajkumar Kothikar, Mina Koche and Amit Surpam

Swapnil Konde

Post Graduate Institute, Department of Plant Pathology, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra - 444104, INDIA

Rajkumar Kothikar*

Post Graduate Institute, Department of Plant Pathology, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra - 444104, INDIA

Mina Koche

Post Graduate Institute, Department of Plant Pathology, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra - 444104, INDIA

Amit Surpam

Post Graduate Institute, Department of Plant Pathology, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra - 444104, INDIA

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1163 1748757509 Innovative Farming Prospects of Chromosome Engineering in Crop Improvement Agriculture 122-125

The term ‘‘chromosome engineering’’ describes technologies in which chromosomes are manipulated to change their mode of genetic inheritance. The concept of “chromosome engineering” was introduced by the American researcher E. Sears in 1972, based on summarizing the results of his studies on the transfer of chromosome segment of Aegilops umbellulata in the genome of common wheat, carried out in 1956. Chromosome engineering in improving crop traits can achieve through: manipulation of whole chromosome sets, manipulation of individual chromosomes and manipulation of chromosome segments. The major tasks of chromosome engineering involves production of haploid plants through CENH3 modification, conversion of meiosis to mitosis through mutating spo11 rec8 osd1 (MiMe) and manipulating homologous recombination through spo11. The recent strategies of CE are recombineering and enhancer trapping but these are widely using in animal genetics and there is need to enhance these techniques especially in plant genetics for their improvement.

Chromosome, Apomixis, Recombination NIL 2017-05-19 Popular Article Sai Rekha, K.

Sai Rekha, K.*

Dept. of Rice, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu - 641003, INDIA

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1164 1748757842 Innovative Farming Soil Solarization: An Approach towards Sustainable Agriculture Agriculture 126-130

Soil solarization is an organic approach for managing soil-borne pests using high temperature produced by absorbing radiant energy from the sun. The method involves soil heating by covering it with a clear plastic film (2-4 mil, Note: 1 mil = 0.001 inch or 0.025 mm) for 4 to 6 weeks during summer months of the year when the soil receives the highest amount of direct sunlight. It is an effective tool for managing the population of soil-borne pathogens, weed flora, eggs and larvae of harmful insects. Being non-chemical in nature, it can be a useful eco-friendly option for pest management in organic food production. Increased plant growth and yield of annual and perennial field crops, vegetables and fruit crops usually occur by adopting this technique.

Plastic sheet, Soil borne pathogens, Crop growth, Ecofriendly NIL 2017-05-20 Popular Article Vinod Kumar, Ankush, S.K. Tehlan, Ankit Kumar and Priyanka

Vinod Kumar*

Dept. of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125004, India

Ankush

Dept. of Soil Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125004, India

S.K. Tehlan

Dept. of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125004, India

Ankit Kumar

Dept. of Entomology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125004, India

Priyanka

Dept. of Agronomy, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar - 125004, India

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1165 1748758450 Innovative Farming Traditional Way of Makhana (Euryle ferox salisb) Cultivation and Harvesting Agriculture 131-134

Makhana is a kind of an aquatic crop generally grown in stagnant water bodies like ponds. It is rich in carbohydrate, protein and minerals content and low in fat content. The cultivation as well as harvesting is pain taking and drudgerious operation which is done by skilful workers of Mallah community. This article aimed to provide information about the traditional way of cultivation and harvesting of makhana in ponds in India.

Makhana, Traditional, Harvesting, Drudgerious NIL 2017-06-07 Popular Article Abhijit Khadatkar and V.K. Gupta

Abhijit Khadatkar*

ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal - 462038, INDIA

V.K. Gupta

Regional Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga - 846005, INDIA

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1166 1748758760 Innovative Farming Floriculture: A Colourful Step of Income Generation Agriculture 135-138

Intensive mono-cropping system has also resulted in the critical deterioration of our natural resources. Thus, the diversification in agriculture in terms of cultivation of pulses, oilseeds, flowers, vegetables etc., along with their post-harvest handling and processing has become the need of the hour. Sh Gurpreet Singh Shergill is a progressive farmer. Out of the total 36 acres of land, he grows horticultural crops on 22 acres of land, along with 12 acres under field crops, half acre under agro-forestry and vermiculture. He is growing gladiolus, rose, marigold, gulzafri in open field (7.8 ha) and rose in protected cultivation. He is also having fish pond of 4000 m² with 18000 fishes. He has 10 improved cattle (Holstein Friesian). He has well established low-cost vermicomposting unit. He also conserved natural resources by making judicious use of fertilizers on the basis of soil testing, adopting sprinkler irrigation and mulching for weed control in rose etc. He also processes surplus rose flowers into rose water under the brand name of ‘Balson’. He has developed a gladiolus corm digger, a rotary sieve corm washer and a gladiolus corm grader.

Floriculture, Income, Achievement NIL 2017-06-11 Success story Rachna Singla, Rajni Goel and Jasvinder Singh

Rachna Singla*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Patiala, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab - 141004, INDIA

Rajni Goel

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Patiala, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab - 141004, INDIA

Jasvinder Singh

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Patiala, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab - 141004, INDIA

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1167 1748759390 Innovative Farming Self Help Group: A Ray of Hope Agriculture 142-144

Self Help Group is an innovative organizational setup for upliftment and welfare of women. Today, the self help group movement is increasingly accepted as an innovation in the field of rural credit. There is need to impart vocational training to the women to form a Self Help Group for becoming entrepreneur and a skilled worker. The story involves the hard work of ten likeminded women of village Bhagwanpura, Samrala who, being landless, decided to earn their livelihood by forming a Self Help Group. Started with the vision of Smt. Charanjeet Kaur, they entered into the business of making bags with small amount of money. Gradually, with the help of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Samrala, they have expanded their work to making bags, quilts, decoration items, utility articles, uniforms, bee veils etc and after paying all the loans, now each member is earning nearly 7500/- per month.

Rural, Upliftment, SHG NIL 2017-06-27 Success story Avneet Kaur, Devinder Tiwari and S.C. Sharama

Avneet Kaur*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Samrala, Ludhiana, Punjab - 141004, India

Devinder Tiwari

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Samrala, Ludhiana, Punjab - 141004, India

S.C. Sharama

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Samrala, Ludhiana, Punjab - 141004, India

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1168 1748759651 Innovative Farming Effect of Modified Seed Drill on Soybean Production under Erratic Climatic Situation: A Success Story Agriculture 145-147

As a result of climate change during the last decade, the rainfall pattern and distribution has been exhibited frequent erratic situation of sudden downpour or long dry spells entailing in to severe stress on soybean crop that results reduction in yield. Keeping the above facts, the act of in-situ rain water management strategies for minimizing risk of crop failure and stabilizing soybean production was felt. Under such circumstances, KVK Panna of Madhya Pradesh introduced modified ridge and furrow equipment to line sowing of soybean through front line demonstration at farmer’s field. These demonstrations brought out enhancement in yield of soybean as 22.5 q/ha over farmers practice 11.2 q/ha. The benefit cost ratio was recorded as 1:3.8 as compared to farmer’s practices 1:2.0. The ridge and furrow equipment save the soil moisture through increased infiltration rate of rain fall and reduced runoff that leads slow rate of soil erosion. The furrow which allows drainage of excess water in case of heavy precipitation, while serves as in situ moisture conservation during dry spells, thus mitigating the detrimental effects of excess and dry spell situation.

Soybean, Seed drill, Climate NIL 2017-06-28 Success story R.K. Singh

R.K. Singh

Krishi Vigyan Kendra - Panna, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur - 482004, India

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1169 1748860711 Innovative Farming Impact of Global Warming on Fruit Crops in India Agriculture 148-153

Global warming is now becoming a worldwide concern; the rise of temperature has been felt much more clearly after 1990. Abnormality in climate patterns, induced by accelerated warming. Higher temperatures lead to a high rate of evaporation and dry conditions in some areas of the world. Perennial crops such as fruit trees have faced very serious damage due to climate change. Qualities of fruits have clearly changed. For example, peel colouring disorder, reduction of acid, softening and spoiling rapidly of fruits have been observed more frequently. As a result of rising temperature and decline in rainfall, the apricot and cherries are fast disappearing from some areas of Kashmir valley. In Himachal Pradesh, apple cultivation shifting towards to higher altitudes due to climate change, where in Uttarakhand; its cultivation has drastically been reduced. Therefore, some adaptation techniques to mitigate the effects of global warming have been developed. Problems and practical approaches against negative impacts of global warming on fruit crops are reviewed.

Adaptation, climate change, fruit, global warming NIL 2017-07-16 Review Articles Tanmoy Sarkar, Ramkumar Dewangan, Sanjay Kumar, Sanvar Mal Choudhary and Sushanta Kumar Sarkar

Tanmoy Sarkar*

Dept. of Fruits and Orchard Management, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal - 741252, India

Ramkumar Dewangan

Indira Gandhi Agriculture University, College of Horticulture and Research Station, Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh - 494001, India

Sanjay Kumar

Dept. of Fruits and Orchard Management, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal - 741252, India

Sanvar Mal Choudhary

Dept. of Pomology, MPKV, Rahuri, Maharashtra - 413722, India

Sushanta Kumar Sarkar

Dept. of Fruits and Orchard Management, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal - 741252, India

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1170 1748861539 Innovative Farming Effect of Various Levels of Protein and Energy Diets on Crossbred T&D Pigs Feed Locally Available Feed Ingredients Agriculture 162-166

Pig has a great potential to contribute to better economic return to the farmers. A balanced diet having proper ratio of energy and protein need to be prepared to make the pig farming economical. The present study was carried out on over 30 growing three months old crossbred piglets to evaluate the energy and protein requirement in growing and finishing pigs. Accordingly, five diets were prepared viz. T1 (Medium energy (75%) and medium protein diet (18%); T2 (Medium energy (75%) and low protein diet (16.20); T3 (Low energy (67.50%) and high protein diet (19.80%); T4 (Low energy (67.50%) and medium protein diet (18%) and T5 (Low energy (67.50%) and Low protein diet (16.20%). Average dry matter intake and weekly growth body weight gain were observed to be non-significant among groups. Slightly better performance were observed in group 1 followed by 4, 5, 3 and 2. Total body weight gain after 23rd week of experiment were observed to be 62.33, 59.42, 59.88, 59.67 and 59.73 for group 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively. The overall average daily gain was 380.99±31.09, 369.07±29.46, 371.93±32.61, 376.27±45.49 and 371.68±35.25 g per piglets in treatments 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively.

Body weight, Energy diet, Pig, Protein diet NIL 2017-08-11 Research Articles Satish Kumar, Neeraj and Sushil Prasad

Satish Kumar*

Sundaresan School of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Allahabad, U.P. - 211007, India

Neeraj

Sundaresan School of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Allahabad, U.P. - 211007, India

Sushil Prasad

Dept. of LPM, Ranchi Veterinary College, Birsa Agricultural University, Kanke, Ranchi - 834003, India

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1171 1749146775 Innovative Farming Secondary and Micronutrients: Deficiency Symptoms and Management in Organic Farming Agriculture 209-211

The plant requires seventeen essential nutrients for their optimum growth and development. When a plant needs a certain nutrient element, it shows deficiency symptoms or hunger signs. These symptoms are nutrient specific and show different patterns in different crops for different essential nutrients. Secondary nutrients (sulfur, calcium and magnesium) are necessary as well. Micronutrients are required in small amounts for the proper functioning of plant metabolism. The absolute or relative absence of any of these nutrients can hamper plant growth; alternatively, too high a concentration can be toxic to the plant or to humans. Visual clues of plant nutrient deficient symptoms can alert farmers and other service providers on the type of nutrient deficiencies in soil. If identified early enough, corrective measures can be taken during the growing season to correct the negative impact of such deficiencies.

Essential nutrients, deficiency, hunger sign, toxic, secondary nutrients NIL 2017-12-24 Popular Article Shaon Kumar Das, R.K. Avasthe and Ashish Yadav

Shaon Kumar Das*

ICAR-National Organic Farming Research Institute, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim - 737102, INDIA

R.K. Avasthe

ICAR-National Organic Farming Research Institute, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim - 737102, INDIA

Ashish Yadav

ICAR-National Organic Farming Research Institute, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim - 737102, INDIA

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1172 1749147104 Innovative Farming Drudgery Reducing Harvesting Tools and Equipment Used by Indian Farm Women Agriculture 212-214

Women in rural India play a major role in shaping the economy of the country. The women work force in agriculture and allied sectors is estimated to be around 97 million which amounts to about 37% of the total agriculture workers in the country. By 2020, the population of agricultural workers in the country will be about 230 million of which 45% will be the female workers. Thus, there is going to be a significant role of farm women in country’s agriculture and due attention needs to be given to their safety and occupational health issues so as to have higher productivity, less accidents, and minimum occupational health problems. Some improved tools/equipment for harvesting were used by Indian farm women for reducing drudgery was discussed in this article.

Harvesting, drudgery, tools, equipment, farm women NIL 2017-12-29 Popular Article Abhijit Khadatkar, R.R. Potdar and D.J. Shrinivasa

Abhijit Khadatkar*

ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal - 462038, India

R.R. Potdar

ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal - 462038, India

D.J. Shrinivasa

College of Technology and Engineering, MPUAT, Udaipur - 313001, India

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1173 1749189529 Biotica Research Today Ornamental Fish Farming for Self-Sufficiency: A Sustainable Pathway to Economic Independence in North-East India Fisheries Science 150-153

Northeast region of India has been recognized as one of the hotspots of freshwater fish diversity in the world. There are 422 fish species that have been documented from the region, of which 267 have the potential to be ornamental. Assam has the highest number of ornamental fish with 187 species. Their habitats range from cold to warm water. They have food, recreational and trade values and are thus potential resources for the growth of economy. Ornamental fish production has proven to be viable both financially and economically in the region. Governmental organizations must therefore play a significant part in raising its market share and importance globally. Establishing production facilities in multiple sites throughout the region and encouraging public-private collaborations might be very helpful in promoting the ornamental fisheries sector's vibrancy and profitability. In this situation, the cooperative approach of various stakeholders can be quite important for the expansion of the sector.

Aquarium keeping, Northeast India, Ornamental fisheries, Sustainability https://doi.org/10.54083/BRT/7.5.2025/150-153 2025-05-15 Popular Article Amulya Kakati, Niti Sharma, Dibakar Gogoi and Pronob Das

Amulya Kakati

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Niti Sharma

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Dibakar Gogoi

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Pronob Das*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

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1174 1749203883 Innovative Farming January-March (2018) Future Prospects and Trends for Effective Utilization of Fish Processing Wastes in India Agriculture 01-05

In India, the problem of fish waste has concerned considerable attention to the food producers, processors, retailers, and consumers as the waste from fish generated in a huge amount from the fish processing industries, retail markets and also from the by-catch at the fishing harbor. The continuous increase in global fish resources results in 25% of wastage among total fish catch annually. During 2006-07, an estimate of 3,02,750 tones of waste was generated from fish processing industries of India alone. Non-utilization or underutilization of these waste products not only cause negative externalities to society but also lead to environmental pollution and ecological onus. To secure from pollution and to reduce waste, it is now become important to have a comprehensive understanding about the recycle and/or conversion of these fish wastes into useful products of higher nutritive value and betterment of human society. Thus, the effective utilization of fish processing waste materials from the fish processing sectors has been reviewed here.

Fish, waste, utilization, pollution, enzyme NIL 2018-03-12 Review Articles Biswajit Mohanty, Upasana Mohanty, Sandeep S. Pattanaik, Ansuman Panda and Alok Kumar Jena

Biswajit Mohanty*

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Tripura - 799210, INDIA

Upasana Mohanty

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Tripura - 799210, INDIA

Sandeep S. Pattanaik

ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai - 400047, INDIA

Ansuman Panda

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Tripura - 799210, INDIA

Alok Kumar Jena

College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Tripura - 799210, INDIA

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1175 1749207840 Innovative Farming January-March (2018) Influence of Integrated Nutrient Management Practices on Physio-Chemical Attributes in Strawberry (Fragaria × Ananassa Duch.) cv. Sweet Charlie Agriculture 06-10

The study was conducted so as to identify most suitable integrated nutrient management (INM) practice for enhancing the physio-chemical properties of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa duch.) fruits of variety Sweet Charlie with 21 treatments and different combinations of organic and microbial sources of nutrients (Compost, Poultry Manure, Vermicompost, FYM, Azotobacter and PSB) replicated thrice with 18 plants per  2x2 m plot size in Randomized Block Design. The study revealed that INM comprising  application of vermicompost 5 t/ha + poultry manure 2.5 t/ha + Azotobacter + phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (PSB) was the best to obtain a maximum fruit yield (112.63 g plant-1), fruit weight (12.86 g), in terms of length and breadth, fruit with maximum specific gravity and highest shelf life (5.69 days),. This was much significantly higher as compared to that of the control. A similar trend was observed in the fruit bio-chemical attributes like Total Soluble Solids (7.05 °B), titratable acidity (0.64%), ascorbic acid content (53.42 mg/100 g fruit pulp),  and pH (2.66) content of the harvested fruits. Hence, it can be considered the integrated application of vermicompost 5 t/ha + poultry manure 2.5 t/ha + Azotobacter + PSB is most suitable INM practice for enhancing physio-chemical properties of strawberry cv. Sweet Charlie fruits as grown under Allahabad conditions.

Physio-chemical, INM, vermicompost, Azotobacter, sweet charlie NIL 2018-03-15 Research Articles Niyati Jain, Vijay Bahadur and Arghya Mani

Niyati Jain*

Dept. of Horticulture, SHUATS, Allahabad, INDIA

Vijay Bahadur

Dept. of Horticulture, SHUATS, Allahabad, INDIA

Arghya Mani

Dept. of Post-harvest technology of Horticultural crops, BCKV, Mohanpur, INDIA

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1176 1749215084 Innovative Farming January-March (2018) Adaptation of Agromet Advisory Bulletin (AAB) for Improving Agro-Economic Status of Farmers Agriculture 24-30

The study was conducted to assess the economic impact of weather forecast-based advisories (AAB) issued to 8 districts in Marathwada region of Maharashtra state. Six years comprising 6 Kharif, Rabi and Summer seasons during 2010-2011 to 2015-2016 were taken. The main aim was to study the percentage increase or decrease in the yield and net return due to AAB. AAB adopted farmers of Marathwada region accrued a mean net benefit of 17% in the overall yield and mean reduction by 8% in the cost of cultivation with year to year less variation (7% and  3%, respectively).

GKMS, AMFU, AAB, dissemination NIL 2018-03-20 Research Articles Pralhad Jaybhaye, P.B. Shinde and R. Balasubramanian

Pralhad Jaybhaye*

Dept. of Agricultural Meteorology, VNMKV, Parbhani - 431 401, INDIA

P.B. Shinde

Dept. of Agricultural Meteorology, VNMKV, Parbhani - 431 401, INDIA

R. Balasubramanian

Agricultural Meteorology Division, IMD, Pune - 411 005, INDIA

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1177 1749215550 Innovative Farming January-March (2018) Extreme Streamflow Forecasting using Artificial Neural Networks Agriculture 31-35

Forecasting of extreme stream flow is necessary for water resource planning and management at catchment scale. Artificial neural networks(ANN) have been widely used as models for a variety of nonlinear hydrologic processes including that of forecasting runoff over a watershed. In this study, ANN a data driven technique is used for forecasting the extreme streamflow. ANN architecture is optimized by selection of transfer function, training algorithm, hidden neurons, and initial weights. For ANN weights finalization LM algorithm is used. The performance of ANN model is validated using two different performance indices. It was found that the ANN model consistently gives superior predictions without any explicit consideration of different components of the hydrologic cycle during calibration and validation. Based on the results, ANN modeling appears to be a promising technique for forecasting the extreme streamflow in semiarid Saurashtra regions of Gujarat.

Artificial Neural Networks, Rainfall-runoff, Semi-arid Climate NIL 2018-03-22 Research Articles H.Y. Maheta, H.D. Rank, Jaydip J. Makwana and G.V. Prajapati

H.Y. Maheta*

P.G. Institute of Agri-Business Management, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, INDIA

H.D. Rank

Dept. of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering & Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, INDIA

Jaydip J. Makwana

Centre of Excellence on Soil & Water Management, RTTC, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, INDIA

G.V. Prajapati

Dept. of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering & Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, INDIA

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1178 1749221095 Innovative Farming January-March (2018) Performance of Promising Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) Cultivars under West Bengal Condition Agriculture 40-42

Two high yielding mustard (Brassica juncea L.) cultivars TM-204 and TM-143 developed at Bhaba Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Trombay, Mumbai were used as initial material. The cultivars were tested in different agro climatic zones of West Bengal for 4 years at 16 locations. Among them TM-204, a yellow seed coat mustard produced seed yield of 1336 kg/ha and TM-143 another yellow seed coat mustard produced seed yield of 1316 kg/ha. TM-204 also demonstrated in farmers’ field trial and it surpassed the yield of local check varieties (B-85 and B-9) by 4.2 to 24.3 %. Both the entries were found superior for seed and oil yield over national (Kranti) and zonal check (Pusa Bold) varieties.

BARC, Mustard, Seed Yield NIL 2018-03-26 Short Communication A. Dutta, H. Banerjee and R. Das

A. Dutta*

Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, W.B. - 742101, INDIA

H. Banerjee

Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, W.B. - 742101, INDIA

R. Das

Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, W.B. - 742101, INDIA

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1179 1749221475 Innovative Farming January-March (2018) Consumer Preference for Dairy Products Attributes in Kolkata: A Conjoint Analysis Approach Agriculture 43-47

Milk and milk products have an important place in the dietary regimen of human beings due to health benefits. The adoption of milk processing is highly determined by the market demand for dairy products. It discussed the role of conjoint analysis in the determination of buyers' responses to a product during concept testing and test marketing and also for the modifications of existing products. The fulfillment of customers' needs and wants in a profitable way requires that companies understand the attributes of their product(s) that are most valued by the customers. In this paper the conjoint analysis of ghee has be estimated and their path worth utilities also has been calculated. In case of ghee the most important attribute to the consumers was found to be packaging which contributes 1.764 to the consumer’s total utility of 3.582 while the consumer’s least preferred attributes level is local brand ghee. Ghee prepared from cow milk (U=0.434) were found to have more utility to the consumers than buffalo ghee(U=0.125). Relative importance attributes of ghee to consumers were found to be: packaging (41.25%), types of ghee (27.10%), brand (23.14%) and quantity (8.51%). The computed expenditure elasticity of liquid milk, curd and buttermilk were found to be lesser than unity reflecting that consumers have considered these products as necessary goods.

Dairy products, attributes level, conjoint analysis, elasticity NIL 2018-03-28 Case Study Arnab Roy and Ravinder Malhotra

Arnab Roy*

Dept. of Agricultural Economics, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru - 560065, INDIA

Ravinder Malhotra

Dairy Economics Division, ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal - 132001, INDIA

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1180 1749222543 Innovative Farming Conjunctive Stimulus of Irrigation Regimes Frequency and Mulching on Bt. Cotton Agriculture 51-54

Lower unit cost of production and increase in yield by 29% higher yield in Bt. cotton than hybrid cotton pleased the Saurashatra farmers to adopt Bt. cotton on large scale. Cotton in general does not withstand heavy irrigations. Scheduling of irrigation thus become important in cotton since water is valuable, costly and scarce on one hand. Water availability for agricultural use is declining all over the world due to the scarcity of water resource. Irrigation schedule needs proper irrigation regime, frequency under a particular set of conditions. To study conjunctive impact of different mulches (silver black plastic mulch &wheat straw mulch) irrigation regimes (0.6 ETc, 0.8 ETc, 1.0 ETc) frequency (2 days, 3 days and 5 days) on growth and yield parameter of Bt. cotton. An experiment was undertaken consecutively for two years (2013-14 and 2014-15). Irrigation scheduling was done based on actual evapotranspiration measured with help of soil moisture sensors. The control treatment was taken as drip with no mulch. Silver black plastic mulch recorded 22.40% more plant height, 27.83%number of sympodial branches, 26.23% number of monopodial branches, 28.46% number of bolls, 26% mean boll weight and 38.68% more seed cotton yield than to control at 0.8 ETc and 3 days irrigation frequency. Highest water use efficiency (20.48 kg ha-1mm-1), BC ratio (3.2) and Internal Rate of Return (141.52%) was observed under silver black plastic mulch with 0.8 ETc and 3 days frequency of irrigation.

Silver black plastic mulch, wheat straw mulch, moisture regimes NIL 2018-06-11 Research Articles G.V. Prajapati, R. Subbaiah, N.S. Vithlani, H.Y. Maheta, J.J. Makwana and P.V. Patel

G.V. Prajapati*

Centre of Excellence on Soil & Water Management, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat, INDIA

R. Subbaiah

College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Anand Agricultural University, Godhra, Gujarat, INDIA

N.S. Vithlani

Research, Testing and Training Centre, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat, INDIA

H.Y. Maheta

Post Graduate Institute of Agricultural Business Management, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat, INDIA

J.J. Makwana

Research, Testing and Training Centre, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat, INDIA

P.V. Patel

Director of Students’ Welfare, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat, INDIA

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1181 1749223263 Innovative Farming Seroreactivity Assay of Crude and Fractionated Outer Membrane Protein of Aeromonas sobria Isolated from Goldfish (Carassius auratus Linnaeus, 1758) Agriculture 55-60

Aeromonas sobria has frequently been reported as a causative agent of motile Aeromonas septicemia (MAS) along with A. hydrophila in fish and other aquatic organisms. Till now there is lack of precise tool for early diagnosis of this disease. The aim of the present study was to fractionate and characterize the outer membrane protein (OMP) antigen of A. sobria by serological techniques so as to identify immunoreactive molecules that might be useful in preparing immunodiagnostic tools against A. sobria infection in goldfish. Eight fractions were isolated from the crude OMP antigen using Sephacryl S-200 and DEAE-cellulose chromatography. The highest seroreactivity was observed in the gel-permeated protein G1 which had an optical density (OD) of 0.72 nm, higher even than that of the crude OMP antigen, 0.63 nm. The serodiagnostic potential of G1 was assessed by using dip-stick ELISA. Therefore, fractionated antigen G1 (molecular wt 42-67 kDa) should be further studied in immunodiagnostic tool preparations for A. sobria infection.

Aeromonas sobria, outer membrane protein, sero diagnosis, gold fish NIL 2018-06-14 Research Articles Prasenjit Mali, Koel Bhattacharya Sanyal, Debapriyo Mukherjee, Avijit Biswas, Biswadeep Dey, T. J. Abraham, Gadadhar Dash and S.N. Joardar

Prasenjit Mali*

Department of Aquatic Animal Health, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, West Bengal, INDIA;

Koel Bhattacharya Sanyal

National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, West Bengal, INDIA;

Debapriyo Mukherjee

National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, West Bengal, INDIA;

Avijit Biswas

Department of Aquatic Animal Health, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, West Bengal, INDIA;

Biswadeep Dey

Department of Aquatic Animal Health, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, West Bengal, INDIA;

T. J. Abraham

Department of Aquatic Animal Health, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, West Bengal, INDIA;

Gadadhar Dash

Department of Aquatic Animal Health, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, West Bengal, INDIA;

S.N. Joardar

Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, West Bengal, INDIA

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1182 1749223960 Innovative Farming Early Separation and Weaning Stress Encountered in Calves Agriculture 61-63

Weaning the calf immediately after birth allows controlled milk feeding hence, saving milk for human consumption and profitability. Since the new born calf is incapable of digesting solid feed, milk or milk replacer diets have been provided along with grains and forage as early as a week in order to prepare a pre ruminant calf to ruminant. But a serious ongoing problem is with the stress the calf faces such as early separation from the mother, mother’s milk, care and attention and failure of passive immunity transfer. Many protocols have been followed to reduce the problem of weaning stress and one of the more practical applications is the separation of the cow and calf through fence line contact.

Calf weaning, weaning stress, calf care NIL 2018-06-18 Popular Article Saroj Rai, Jyotimala Sahu, R. Behera, A. Muhammad, M.K. Ghosh and T.K. Dutta

Saroj Rai*

ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, ERS- Kalyani, West Bengal - 741235, INDIA

Jyotimala Sahu

ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, ERS- Kalyani, West Bengal - 741235, INDIA

R. Behera

ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, ERS- Kalyani, West Bengal - 741235, INDIA

A. Muhammad

ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, ERS- Kalyani, West Bengal - 741235, INDIA

M.K. Ghosh

ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, ERS- Kalyani, West Bengal - 741235, INDIA

T.K. Dutta

ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, ERS- Kalyani, West Bengal - 741235, INDIA

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1183 1749224450 Innovative Farming Studies On Feasibility of Utilizing Rainfed Cassava for Ericulture Agriculture 64-71

A study was undertaken with seven Indian popular cassava varieties viz. CO2, CO3, CO(TP)4, H165, H226, MVD1 and Kunguma Rose (KR) cultivated under rainfed condition to find out the feasibility of diverting a part of foliage for rearing of eri silkworm as a source of additional income without affecting the crop produce. The rearing capacity of eri silkworm, was estimated based on the availability of total foliage at the time of removal of week shoots 6 months after plantation (6 MAP) by farmers, forced leaf harvests from 7-9 MAP and finally at the time of tuber harvest (10 MAP). The forced leaf harvests up to 30% once at 8 MAP did not affect the tuber yield and starch content of the tubers in the variety MVD1. The varieties CO3, CO4 and H165 could tolerate leaf plucking up to 20% whereas CO2, H226 and Kunguma Rose were found highly sensitive in which leaf harvest @ 10% only found safe on yield and quality of main produce.  Highest foliage yield (6.373 MT/ha)and rearing capacity (797 dfls) of eri silkworm were recorded with H165 without affecting yield and quality of the tuber. The variety MVD1 (4.450 MT/ha & 556 dfls) was found next best suited whereas CO2 was registered lowest foliage yield (1.566 MT/ha) and rearing capacity (196dfls). Based on the overall foliage availability without adverse impact on tuber quality and yield, the order of merit of cassava varieties suitable for ericulture was H165> MVD1> CO3 > Kunguma Rose > CO4 > H226 > CO2 under rainfed conditions.

Cassava, leaf harvest, tuber yield, starch content, eri silkworm NIL 2018-06-18 Research Articles N. Sakthivel and S.M.H. Qadri

N. Sakthivel*

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board, Government of India, Salem – 636017, Tamil Nadu, INDIA;

S.M.H. Qadri

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Mysore – 570 008, Karnataka, INDIA

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1184 1749226500 Innovative Farming Managing Boron and Zinc Deficiency in Vegetable Crops Agriculture 72-76

Among the horticultural crops, vegetables have an important position and are considered as ‘protective food’. In recent past the production of vegetables has gone up due to adoption of modern technologies and fertilizer formulation but still productivity is much less than world average. One of the major causes of such situation is the indiscriminate use of major nutrients and giving less importance on micronutrients which are very much necessary for quality vegetable production. Boron and Zinc are the two most important micronutrients which are deficient in soils of several countries of the world including India. Analysis of soil and plant samples has indicated that 49% of soils in India are potentially deficient in Zn and 33% in boron. Crops grown in about half of the country’s soils suffer from one or more micronutrient deficiency disorders. The deficiency of these two micronutrients drastically affects the yield and quality of vegetables. So prevention or correction of B and Zn deficiency in crops on deficient soils can have a dramatic effect on yield and quality of vegetables. Selection of proper fertilizer source, application at appropriate rate, using correct formulation, right method of application, timely application and proper balancing of B and Zn micronutrients with other nutrients in soil are some strategies which leads towards more yield and quality production of vegetables. Both soil and foliar application methods of boron and zinc are effective in improving yield and quality of produce.

vegetables, boron, zinc, deficiency, management NIL 2018-06-18 Popular Article Subhrajyoti Chatterjee, Debmala Mukherjee, Shweta Sharma and Partha Choudhuri

Subhrajyoti Chatterjee*

Department of Vegetable Science, Faculty of Horticulture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

Debmala Mukherjee

Department of Vegetable Science, Faculty of Horticulture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

Shweta Sharma

Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh-173230, INDIA

Partha Choudhuri

Department of Vegetable Science, Faculty of Horticulture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal-741252, INDIA

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1185 1749227406 Innovative Farming Length Composition of Commercially Important Fin Fishes During Monsoon Period at Hooghly-Matlah Estuarine System, West Bengal, India Agriculture 77-81

A study has been carried out to know the length composition of commercially important fishes at Hooghly-Matlah estuarine system of West Bengal, India during monsoon period (June-September 2013). A total of 28 commercially important species were recorded during the study. The most commercially important species of the Hooghly-Matlah estuary were recorded Tenualosa ilisha, Harpadon nehereus, Otolithoides pama, Trichiurus lepturus, Coilia ramcarati, Chelon parsia, Lates calcarifer, Polynemus paradiseus,  Sillaginopsis panijus and  Eleutheronema tetradactylum. The main means of exploitation was found to be the bag net, trawl net, large seine, small seine, purse seine, drift net, lift net, cast net, set-gill net, set-barrier, traps, and hooks and lines. The species like Tenualosa ilisha, Otolithoides pama, Lates calcarifer, Setipinna phasa, Trichiurus lepturus, Sillago sihama, Sardinella longiceps were exploited below their size at first maturity. The species like Polynemus paradiseus, Chelon parsia, Harpadon nehereus, Coilia ramcarati, Johnius dussumieri, Lutjanus fulviflamma, Chelon macrolepis, Scomberomorus guttatus, Sillaginopsis panijus, Osteogeneiosus militaris were found to be exploited in mature stages. Reasons of reduction in fish catch and length were reported to be indiscriminate catches of juveniles and matured fishes by small mesh nets, habitat changes, pollution, the decline in water quality and destructive means of fishing practices.

Length composition, monsoon period, Hooghly-Matlah estuary, West Bengal NIL 2018-06-09 Research Articles Dibakar Bhakta, Sudhir Kumar Das, Samarendra Behera and T.S. Nagesh

Dibakar Bhakta*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute Regional Center, Vadodara-390 022, Gujarat, INDIA;

Sudhir Kumar Das

Department of FRM, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, WBUAFS, Chakgaria, Kolkata-700 094, WB, INDIA;

Samarendra Behera

Department of FRM, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, WBUAFS, Chakgaria, Kolkata-700 094, WB, INDIA;

T.S. Nagesh

Department of FRM, Faculty of Fishery Sciences, WBUAFS, Chakgaria, Kolkata-700 094, WB, INDIA;

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1186 1749228274 Innovative Farming Assessment of Training Needs in Animal Husbandry Practices Among Non- Tribal Rural Women of Godda Through Various Attributes in Jharkhand Agriculture 82-87

The present study was carried out on relationship of the selected non- tribal rural women with their training needs to animal husbandry practices in Godda district of Jharkhand and assessed the impact of interventions by both the Non-Government Organization (NGO) and District Administration of the state.  Jharkhand is traditionally known as the mineral (40%) rich state of east India with dense forest area, accounting for about 3.4% forest area of India. Jharkhand state has less than 50% non-tribal population. Other backward classes, Scheduled Castes (SCs) and tribes (STs) together constitute more than 50% of the state’s population. Agricultural activities are counted as the main economic occupation of the state. About 75.95% of the population of the state are rural. This exploratory study was conducted in the non- tribal populated districts of Jharkhand state. Case study methodology for the purpose of the present study has been deliberately chosen so as to best understand and analyse the problems of non- tribal dairy farmers. 300 non- tribal dairy families were selected who were educated, trained and empowered by various NGOs and department of state Government of Jharkhand. Therefore concluded that majority of the respondents were falling under the category of low to medium level socio-economic standards, so appropriate policy implications has to be developed to enhance their standard of living and livelihood status.

Dairy, training, empowerment, rural women NIL 2018-06-21 Research Articles Satish Kumar, Shobha and Sujeet Kumar Yadav

Satish Kumar*

G.V.T- Krishi Vigyan Kendra, GODDA, Jharkhand-814133, INDIA;

Shobha

Dept. of Economics, Ranchi College, Ranchi University, Ranchi, Jharkhand- 834006, INDIA;

Sujeet Kumar Yadav

Bhavdiya Educational Institute, Sewar, Sohawal, Faizabad -224126, U.P., INDIA

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1187 1749243950 Innovative Farming Enhancement of Livelihood Security of Tribal Farm Families of West Bengal: A Success Story Agriculture 88-93

The district of Dakshin Dinajpur of West Bengal has higher Scheduled Tribe (ST) population (16.4%) as compared to state average (5.8 %) and the district is economically backward as there is no big industry, and peoples’ economy solely depends on traditional agriculture and other smaller ventures. So three blocks namely Tapan, Kumarganj and Hili blocks of the district were selected for the livelihood security enhancement efforts under Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) for 4 years during 2013-14 to 2016-17. Interventions on agriculture, animal husbandry, bird rearing and fishery were executed based on the local suitability of technology and farmers’ preference. Improved production technology of jute comprising of certified seed of improved variety (JRO 204), line sowing by seed drill, weed management by CRIJAF nail weeder, balanced fertilizer use and microbial retting using CRIJAF Sona gave a high profit of Rs. 9,900 per bigha (0.134 ha). Introduction of lentil (cv. WBL-77) gave a profit of Rs. 4,800 per bigha and increased availability of pulses in their diet. Among the animal husbandry and fishery activities, improved goat rearing (Black Bengal breed) gave the highest Net Return Per Rupee Investment (NRPRI) of 3.84 closely followed by duck rearing (3.56). Introduction of desi magur (Clarius batrachus L.) cultivation improved farmers’ income by Rs. 20,220 from a small pond (40 m2) within 6 months and added quality protein to the diet of the tribal farm families especially for the growing children. Majority of the tribal farmers (96%) were happy about the improved method of cultivation as the interventions increased their income and enhanced livelihood security. The farm women expressed satisfaction in the animal rearing activities as the additional income from such activities helped them to spend for their children’s education, clothing and health.

Livelihood security, Tribal farm families, Socio-economy, Dakshin Dinajpur NIL 2018-06-25 Success story Sitangshu Sarkar, Bijan Majumdar, Chandrakanta Jana, Biswajit Goswami and Jayanta Dutta

Sitangshu Sarkar*

ICAR-Central Research Institute for Jute and Allied Fibres, Barrackpore, Kolkata-700120, INDIA;

Bijan Majumdar

ICAR-Central Research Institute for Jute and Allied Fibres, Barrackpore, Kolkata-700120, INDIA;

Chandrakanta Jana

ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Mukteswar Campus, Mukteswar, Uttarakhand-263138, INDIA;

Biswajit Goswami

Daksin Dinajpur Krishi Vigyan Kendra, UBKV, Majhian, Dakshin Dinajpur-733133, INDIA;

Jayanta Dutta

Regional Research Station (Old Alluvial Zone), UBKV, Majhian, Dakshin Dinajpur-733133, INDIA

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1188 1749244373 Innovative Farming Simulating The Climate Change Impact on Water Resources System in Aji Basin Using SWAT Model Agriculture 94-102

Climate change is expected to create many challenges (water availability) worldwide and projecting its impacts at regional scale allows communities to water resources planning, development and management requires assessment of different components of hydrological cycle, like rainfall, runoff, ground water recharge and evapotranspiration. Each of these components should be quantified and water balance should be made on basin scale. The study was planned for estimating the runoff, evapotranspiration and groundwater recharge by SWAT model and assessing the impacts of climate change on potential surface and ground water resources of basin. The overall scenarios of 1961--2100 shows that the monsoon seasonal rainfall, runoff and crop evapotranspiration are increasing at 24.12 mm/decade, 11.55 mm/decade and 2.52 mm/decade while annual and monsoon seasonal potential evapotranspiration are decreasing at 14.20 mm/decade and 5.46 mm/decade respectively. The groundwater recharge by SWAT model indicated stable trend in aji basin.

SWAT model, precipitation, runoff, groundwater recharge, evapotranspiration NIL 2018-08-21 Research Articles N.S. Vithlani, H.D. Rank and G.V. Prajapati

N.S. Vithlani*

Research Testing and Training Centre (RTTC), Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujrat, INDIA;

H.D. Rank

Department of Soil and Water Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujrat, INDIA

G.V. Prajapati

Department of Soil and Water Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujrat, INDIA

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1189 1749245163 Innovative Farming Isolation And Characterization of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. Causing Collar Rot of Pigeonpea in Tripura Agriculture 103-105

In Tripura, Pigeonpea {Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.} is grown in an area of 6,500 ha having productivity of 1.8 t/ha. Among major diseases of pigeonpea in Tripura such as Phytophthora Stem Blight (PSB) and Fusarium  Wilt; a new disease namely collar rot caused by the fungi Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. is becoming a crucial threat.  The disease starts appearing after one to four weeks of sowing of the crop in a sporadic manner. Leaves of the plants shows water soaked light brown or yellow appearance followed by drooping and drying of leaves. Under favourable climatic condition collar region of the infected plant shows white mycelia growth of the fungus and sometime initials of sclerotia were also observed under in vivo condition. During present study average disease incidence of 8.5% was observed in the year 2015-16 & 2016-17. The fungus was isolated and grown in Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium & Koch’s postulates was confirmed. Cultural and morphological characteristics like dry mycelial weight, mycelial diameter, time of appearance of initials of sclerotia, pattern and numbers of sclerotia produced were also recorded. Small reddish brown sclerotia were found to be distributed throughout the petri plates, average numbers of sclerotia produced was found to be 573.

Disease incidence, sclerotia, PDA medium NIL 2018-09-03 Short Communication Durga Prasad Awasthi, Partha Das, Biman De, Sujoy Hazari and Navendu Nair

Durga Prasad Awasthi*

Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Tripura-799 210, INDIA

Partha Das

AICRP on Pigeonpea, College of Agriculture, Tripura-799210, INDIA

Biman De

AICRP on Pigeonpea, College of Agriculture, Tripura-799210, INDIA

Sujoy Hazari

AICRP on Pigeonpea, College of Agriculture, Tripura-799210, INDIA

Navendu Nair

Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Tripura-799210, INDIA

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1190 1749245828 Innovative Farming Estimation Of Crop Evapotranspiration of Bt. Cotton Under Silver Black Plastic Mulch Using Various Approaches Agriculture 106-109

Most fundamental requirement of scheduling irrigation is the determination of crop evapotranspiration (ETc). Over estimation of crop evapotranspiration leads waste of scarce water and under estimation leads to the plant moisture stress and decreased crop yield. In order to avoid the underestimation or overestimation of crop water consumption, knowledge of the exact water loss through actual evapotranspiration is necessary for sustainable development and environmentally sound water management. The Penman-Monteith method is maintained as the single standard method for the computation of reference evapotranspiration (ET0) from complete meteorological data but, it requires large number of climatic parameters that are not always easily available for many locations. Pan evaporation method is susceptible to the microclimatic conditions under which the pans are operating and the rigour of station maintenance. An attempt has been made to estimate actual evapotranspiration (ETa) of drip irrigated Bt. cotton under silver black plastic mulch using soil moisture sensor. ETa(ETc) at different growth stage of Bt. cotton was estimated using soil moisture sensor and it was compared with ETc estimated using Penman-Monteith and Pan evaporation method. Results revealed that Pan evaporation method and Penmen Monteith method over estimated ETc by 19.26% and 13.78% than sensor based ETc respectively. Sensor based method estimated lower cumulative ETc at initial stage, development stage, mid stage, and end stage by 46.11%, 33.70%, 18.83% and 17.93%, and 22.89%, 17.80%, 16.09% and 14.89%over Pan evaporation and Penmen Monteith method respectively.

Actual crop evapotranspiration, Penman Monteith method, Silver black plastic mulch, Drip irrigation NIL 2018-09-04 Research Articles G. V. Prajapati and R. Subbaiah

G. V. Prajapati*

Centre of Excellence on Soil & Water Management, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujrat, INDIA

R. Subbaiah

College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Anand Agricultural University, Godhra, Gujrat, INDIA

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1191 1749247917 Pollinator Diversity and Relative Abundance in Ridge Gourd in Mid Altitude of Meghalaya Agriculture 110-112

Pollination plays an important role in the reproduction and fruit set for flowering plant communities. The yields of agricultural crops can be significantly increased through good management practices including effective pollination. Most gourd flowers open at night and usually last only one night. Pollen viability in a newly opened male flower is about 92% but by the time it closes that same morning the viability will be 75% and by the next day it will be only. The present study was carried out in ridge gourd crop at Lowland Agronomy farm, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya. In our study, a total of 12 species were identified on ridge gourd flowers. Lepidopterans were the major floral visitors comprising of six species viz., Diaphania indica Saunders and Glyphodes bivitralis Guenee from Crambidae, Hippotion celerio L. from Sphingidae, Delias eucharis Drury and Pieris brassicae L. from Pieridae. It was followed by Dictyopterans viz., Mantis religiosa L. and Blatta orientalis L., hymenopterans viz., Oecophylla smaragdina Fab. (Formicidae), Coleopteran viz., Aulacophora foevicollis Lucas and Orthopteran viz., Hieroglyphus banian. Relative abundance was higher Lepidoptera (70.47%) followed by Orthoptera (9.52%) and Dictyoptera (8.31%). Hymenoptera (7.85%) and Coleoptera (5.81%). Mean foraging activity in ridge gourd was high for Diaphania indica started its foraging activity from 1800 h to 1830 h onwards (2.73 visitors/m2/5 minutes) and its peak activity was also observed at 1900 h (4.21 visitors/m2/5 minutes). After 1900 h its foraging activity slowly declined with 1.95 visitors/m2/5 minutes at 2000 h.

Pollinator, diversity, northeast NIL 2018-09-04 Research Articles Samik Chowdhury, T. Boopathi, Anup Das, Jayanta Layak, Ardhendu Chakraborty and Dipankar Dey

Samik Chowdhury*

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Mizoram Centre, Kolasib, Mizoram-796 081, INDIA

T. Boopathi

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Mizoram Centre, Kolasib, Mizoram-796 081, INDIA

Anup Das

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, Tripura-796 081, INDIA

Jayanta Layak

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya-793 103, INDIA

Ardhendu Chakraborty

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khowai, Tripura- 799207, INDIA

Dipankar Dey

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khowai, Tripura- 799207, INDIA

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1192 1749248648 Innovative Farming Bioefficacy of Imidacloprid and Thiacloprid Against Chilli Aphid (Aphis Gossypii Glover) in Mid Hills of Meghalaya Agriculture 113-118

The field experiment was conducted to evaluate the bioefficacy of imidacloprid and thiacloprid against chilli aphid (Aphis gossypii) during post kharif season of 2017at ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, India. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with seven treatments and three replications. Chilli (cultivar: Guntur Hope) seedlings (35 days old) were transplanted in 3mX4 m area with a spacing of 60 cm (R-R) × 40 cm (P-P). Total treatments viz. imidacloprid 17.8% SL (25 and 50 g a.i./ha), thiacloprid 21.7% SC (54 and 108 g a.i./ha) and dimethoate 30% EC (300 and 600 g a.i./ha) were applied twice at fifteen days intervals along with untreated control. The bioefficacy study revealed that the overall mean reduction of chilli aphid population was highest in imidacloprid at 50 g a.i. ha-1 with 80.33% reduction followed by thiacloprid (79.84%). The maximum fruit yield was also recorded in imidacloprid @ 50 g a.i./ha with 28.80 q/ha.

Chilli, bioefficacy, imidacloprid, thiacloprid, Aphis gossypii NIL 2018-09-15 Research Articles Baiamon Sutnga, Sandip Patra, V.K. Verma, N.S. Azad Thakur and R.K. Tombisana Devi

Baiamon Sutnga*

College of Post Graduate Studies, CAU, Umiam, Meghalaya-793103, INDIA

Sandip Patra

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya-793103, INDIA

V.K. Verma

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya-793103, INDIA

N.S. Azad Thakur

College of Post Graduate Studies, CAU, Umiam, Meghalaya-793103, INDIA

R.K. Tombisana Devi

College of Post Graduate Studies, CAU, Umiam, Meghalaya-793103, INDIA

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1193 1749249428 Innovative Farming Seasonal Incidence of Diamondback Moth for Some Cruciferous Agriculture 119-126

The diamondback moth (DBM) Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus) is an economically important pest of cruciferous crop in West Bengal, India. An extensive work is carried out at Agricultural Training Centre / State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute, Narendrapur, West Bengal regarding study of seasonal incidence of DBM for some cruciferous vegetables viz. green cabbage, red cabbage, Chinese cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli during two seasons i.e. 2013-14 and 2014-15. Early, mid-season and late varieties for all the vegetables were cultivated at institute’s farm in three separate plots. The weather parameters such as maximum and minimum temperature, humidity, rainfall etc for the whole season were taken from the local meteorological observatory. The incidence of diamondback moth in all the vegetable plots was correlated with the weather data. The noticed incidence of larval population in terms number per plant was ranging from 0.20 to 5.20, 0.13 to 4.20, 0.13 to 4.66, 0.13 to 4.20 and 0.20 to 0.40 in 2013-14 and 0.13 to 5.60, 0.13 to 4.46, 0.13 to 4.20, 0.20 to 4.00 and 0.40 to 0.60 in 2014-15 for green cabbage, red cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and Chinese cabbage respectively.  Again, the above pests’ incidence of larvae per plant was less in case of Chinese cabbage (0.20 to 0.60) than that of broccoli, red cabbage, cauliflower and green cabbage for two consecutive seasons. Hence, green cabbage was considered as preferred host plant for DBM incidence.

Incidence, diamondback moth, cruciferous, weather NIL 2018-12-20 Research Articles S.N. Das and Soumyesh Mandal

S.N. Das*

Agricultural Training Centre (ATC)/ State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (SAMETI), West Bengal, Narendrapur, Kolkata – 700 103, INDIA

 

Soumyesh Mandal

Agricultural Training Centre (ATC)/ State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (SAMETI), West Bengal, Narendrapur, Kolkata – 700 103, INDIA

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1194 1749249749 Innovative Farming Determination of Watershed Morphological Parameters Using Remote Sensing and GIS Agriculture 127-132

Drainage basin/watershed analysis based on morphometric parameters is very important for watershed planning and management. Morphometric analysis of watershed is the best method to identify the relationship of various aspects in the area. The application of Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System (GIS) for the analysis of morphometric parameters are found to be of immense utility in watershed for soil, water conservation and natural resources management. In the present study, the RS and GIS techniques were applied to evaluate linear, areal and relief aspects morphometric parameters of the Limkheda watershed, situated at upstream of Hadaf river basin, Gujarat, India. In this study, it is found that SRTM-DEM model has the capability to precisely delineate the watershed and to extract different morphological parameters, to characterize the watershed behaviour. The bifurcation ratio, form factor, elongation ratio and drainage density of the watershed are 0.58, 0.08, 0.33 and 0.35 respectively. The results of the study are useful for further hydrological investigations and the major inputs to various hydrological models. 

Morphological Parameters, SRTM-DEM, Remote Sensing, Geographic Information System (GIS) NIL 2018-09-26 Research Articles Jaydip J. Makwana, M.K. Tiwari, H.Y. Maheta and G.V. Prajapati

Jaydip J. Makwana*

Centre of Excellence on Soil & Water Management, RTTC, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat-362001, INDIA

M.K. Tiwari

Department of Soil and Water Engineering, College of Agricultural Engg. and Tech., Anand Agricultural University, Godhra, Gujarat-389001, INDIA

H.Y. Maheta

P.G. Institute of Agri-Business Management, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat-362001, INDIA

G.V. Prajapati

Centre of Excellence on Soil & Water Management, RTTC, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, Gujarat-362001, INDIA

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1195 1749250203 Innovative Farming Innovative Initiatives for Enhancing Access of Quality Seeds to Farmers Under Evolving IPR Regime - Insights and Implications Agriculture 133-140

In order to comply with obligation under WTO and also to provide incentives for private sector participation in plant varietal development research, several countries brought plant varieties under Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) regime. This together with increasing consolidation and concentration of Agro-biochemical companies at global level under expanding frontier technologies for plant varietal development has raised concern regarding quality seed accessibility to farmers at affordable price. For achieving sustainable development goal of zero hunger by meeting food and nutritional security requirements, accessibility to quality seed at affordable price is prerequisite. To address this issue of accessibility of quality seed at affordable price, several market and non-market based innovative approaches are identified and are being experimented across different countries and regions of the World by different agencies focussing on different stakeholders. Some of these approaches are of voluntary nature involving partnership or contracts. Some approaches are governed by legislations but some are not governed by any legislation. Some approaches are complying with prevalent "Individualistic" IPR regimes but some approaches are based on "protected commons" IPR concept.  This study attempts to documents and examine these approaches, so as to get useful insights for effective adaptation of these mechanisms in Indian context.a

Intellectual property rights, seeds, access, plant variety, crop diversity NIL 2018-09-28 Review Articles P.A. Lakshmi Prasanna

P.A. Lakshmi Prasanna

ICAR-Indian Institute of Rice Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad- 500030, INDIA

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1196 1749251259 Innovative Farming October-December (2018) Weather Parameters and it’s Impact on Agricultural Production- A Review Agriculture 141–149

Natural fluctuations of climate above or below a daily average value is termed as weather variability. Weather plays a major role to determine the agricultural improvement. Almost all the field crops are solely dependent upon weather parameters to deliver life sustaining water and energy. This weather change is one of the most important global environmental challenges that have significantly higher implications on agricultural sectors. This changes include increase in air, water, extreme temperature, elevated greenhouse gases concentration, enhanced the incidence of droughts and floods, changes in pests and diseases, regional monsoon variation, changes in atmospheric CO2 and ground-level O3concentrations, changes in the nutritional quality of some foods, recurrent rains pattern along with other factors such as chilling, water logging, dust-storms, thunderstorms and hailstorms, high winds, heat and cold waves, rise in extreme weather incidences in coastal regions and recession of Himalayan glacier etc. Globally, these parameters drastically reduce the agricultural production and productivity at the regional and local levels due to global warming. Changing of all the weather parameters under a prolonged situation are responsible for global warming that have negative impacts on agricultural crops. This leads to cause an array of morpho-anatomical, physiological, biochemical and molecular changes in plants that affects plant growth, development and may lead to severe diminishing in economic yield. To cope up with this weather-related hazard or adapt against this alarming situation, forecasting of weather is one of the important toolsfor agricultural production under climate change scenario.

Weather, climate, parameters, perilous effect NIL 2018-11-19 Review Articles Sanjoy Shil

Sanjoy Shil

Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (Bankura Campus), Bankura, West Bengal 722 132, INDIA

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1197 1749251662 Innovative Farming October-December (2018) Growth Rate Analysis of Indian Value Added Coffee Agriculture 150-157

Coffee is considered as one of the vital non-alcoholic beverages in the world. Data of ten years period from 2007-08 to 2016-17 were collected from Coffee Board of India, Bengaluru for the purpose of analyzing the growth rate of value added coffee export. The linear and compound growth rate was found to be significant for instant and pooled value added coffee. Whereas for ground and roasted coffee, the linear and compound growth rate were found to be non-significant which may be due to less preference in international export markets compared to instant coffee. For instant coffee growth rate was found to be highest and positively significant for Turkey, Indonesia and Poland because of increased demand from these countries. The growth rate was found to be negative for Finland due to shifting of consumer preference to other coffee products. For Russian federation and Ukraine growth rate was found to be non-significant because export to these had reached the plateau. The compound and linear growth rate of ground coffee was found to be highest for Australia because of more preference is given to Indian ground coffee from last four years. USA, Italy, Ukraine, Finland, Kuwait and other countries were found non-significant growth rate. For roasted coffee all the countries except Singapore was found to be non-significant. In case of pooled value added coffee, the growth rate was found to be highest for Turkey and negative growth rate was found for Finland. For Russian federation and Ukraine the growth rate was found to be non-significant.

Growth rate, coffee, value addition NIL 2018-11-24 Research Articles Varun Gangadhar, Pramit Pandit and Pooja, B.S.

Varun Gangadhar

Department of Agricultural Statistics, Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560065, INDIA

Pramit Pandit*

Department of Agricultural Statistics, Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560065, INDIA

Pooja, B.S.

Department of Agricultural Statistics, Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560065, INDIA

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1198 1749252455 Innovative Farming October-December (2018) Disease Incidence of Verticillium Wilt, Macrophomina Wilt and Collar Rot of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) Caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. from Tripura Agriculture 158-160

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is an important oilseed crop in India. It is a recognized worldwide for its beauty, sunflower oil is a valued and healthy vegetable premium oil because of  its light colour, high level of unsaturated fatty acids and lack of linolenic acid, bland flavor and high smoke points. Numbers of diseases caused by various fungi, bacteria and viruses, have been identified on wild or cultivated sunflower but only a few of them has economic significance as far as causing yield losses. Sunflower is attacked by many diseases, which reduce the yield and quality significantly under optimal conditions. During Present study, sunflower plants grown at trials allotted by Indian Institute of Oilseed Research, Hyderabad under College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, West Tripura in the year 2016-17 and 2017-18 were evaluated for different diseases based on their characteristics symptom and plant pathological view. Results revealed that two types of wilting namely Verticillium wilt caused by Verticillium spp.  and Macrophomina wilt caused by Macrophomina phaseolina are occurring along with incidence of  collar rot of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc under Agro-Climatic condition of Tripura.

Isolation, Symptom, Koch Postulates, Potato Dextrose Agar. NIL 2018-11-30 Research Articles D.P. Awasthi, Debashish Sen, U. Giri, N. Paul and P. Debnath

D.P. Awasthi*

College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, Tripura West - 799 210, INDIA

Debashish Sen

College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, Tripura West - 799 210, INDIA

U. Giri

College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, Tripura West - 799 210, INDIA

N. Paul

College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, Tripura West - 799 210, INDIA

P. Debnath

College of Agriculture, Tripura, Lembucherra, Tripura West - 799 210, INDIA

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1199 1749253176 Innovative Farming October-December (2018) Managing Soil Health of Crop Fields in North East India –Some Potential Module of Indigenous Resource Conserving Techniques Agriculture 167-173

Although Resource Conservation Technologies (RCT) has emerged globally as a new paradigm to achieve goals of sustainable production, such unique culture is already in practice in the most remote state of North Eastern Region of India i.e. Arunachal Pradesh, particularly in Lohit and Anjaw districts. The practice of RCT in the form of incorporation of rice (Oryza sativa) residue and weed biomass as a source of nutrient is predominant in these districts where no chemical fertilizer and pesticide is applied. In transplanted rice 2/3rd residue is left in the field and recycled for nutrient supply where average rice yield of 2.3-2.7 t/ha is obtained. In this practice, average soil organic carbon level of 1.16% is maintained compared to 0.82% in rice fields without residue management. Such practice has the nutrient potential of 23.5 kg N, 8.6 kg P205 and 48.5 kg K20/ha, respectively and contributes to yield stabilization. The nutrient recycled through management of weed biomass (5.8 to 7.2 t/ha) is about 91.1 kg N, 15 kg P205 and 87 kg K20/ha. Farmers also get similar advantage in terms of nutrient enrichment of soil when they keep the field fallow after every 3-4 years of rice cultivation. Incorporation of fresh ricebean (Vigna umbellata) biomass (10-12 t/ha) in ginger (Zingiber officinale) field is also another traditional in-situ soil fertility management practice in Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh, where farmers are getting 20-25% higher ginger rhizome yield than without practicing green manuring. Thus, the study concluded that the RCT measures have been adopted by the North eastern farmers since ancient time which needs to blended with the modern farming practices for sustainable agriculture.

Soil health, Resource conservation, Indigenous knowledge, Residues, North East India NIL 2018-12-12 Research Articles P.K. Ghosh, Anup Das, A. Pattanayak, R. Bhagwati, A.K. Tripathi and S.V. Ngachan

P.K. Ghosh

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, INDIA

ICAR, Krishi Anusandhan Bhavan, New Delhi, INDIA

Anup Das*

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, INDIA

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, Agartala, Tripura, INDIA

A. Pattanayak

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, INDIA

ICAR- Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Uttarakhand, INDIA

R. Bhagwati

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Arunachal Pradesh Centre, Basar, Arunachal Pradesh, INDIA

ICAR- Indian Institute of Rice Research, Gerua, Assam, INDIA

A.K. Tripathi

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, INDIA

ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application and Research Institute, Guwahati, Assam, INDIA

S.V. Ngachan

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, INDIA

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1200 1749253718 Innovative Farming October-December (2018) Weed Survey in Different Fields of Transplanted Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in North Pulinpur Area Under Khowai District, Tripura Agriculture 174-180

The present investigation was carried out during kharif season 2017-18 at North Pulinpur area under Khowai district, Tripura (23052.836’ N, latitude of 91035.275’ E, longitude, and 940 m above sea level). North Pulinpur is one of the drought prone areas of Khowai district, Tripura. The area falls under the subtropical hill zone, and the climate is humid. An average annual rainfall ranges from 2050-2550 mm. The soil of the experimental field was sandy loam in texture acidic in reaction with a soil PH of 4.5-5.8 and medium in fertility status with low water holding capacity. Rice field surveyed covering 435 fields of four villages (V-I, II, III and IV) the number of respective field was 102, 141, 75 and 117, respectively. Weeds indicated there were 42 species belonging to 20 families of which 22 species were broad-leaved, 10 grasses, 7 sedges and 3 aquatics. Species diversity ranking of weed community for the villages were Village-II>Village-III>Village-I>Village-IV.  Based on Sorenson’s Index of Similarity of the S value is 87.67% to 102.77%. The highest S value of 102.77% was between Village-I and Village-III, while the lowest value of 87.67% between Village-II and Village-IV. The higher S value indicated that species composition between villages was closely similar and the lower S value indicated species compositions in both villages were diverse. Out of 42 weed species, six species namely Oryza sativa (Weedy rice) followed by Echinochloa crus-galli, Leptochloa chinensis, Cynodon dactylon, Ludwigia hyssopifolia, Fimbristylis milacea were most abundant in all villages with a greater proportion of severe infestation (score of 5:41%-50% weed cover).

Weed, weed survey, transplanted rice NIL 2018-12-15 Research Articles Lord Litan Debbarma, Dipankar Dey and Dipak Nath

Lord Litan Debbarma*

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khowai (Tripura) 799207, INDIA

Dipankar Dey

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khowai (Tripura) 799207, INDIA

Dipak Nath

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khowai (Tripura) 799207, INDIA

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1201 1749254320 Innovative Farming October-December (2018) Organic Nutrient Management System for Cultivation of Pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) Cv Kew Agriculture 181-184

An investigation was carried out to standardize the organic production protocol for cultivation of pineapple cv. Kew. In this investigation pineapple suckers cv. Kew were planted at 64000 plants/ha and the different sources of organic manures (vermicompost at 43.2 kg/plot, farmyard manure at 60.48 kg/plot/year, poultry manure at 21.6 kg/plot/year, neem cake at 20.44 kg/plot/year) and biofertilizers (azotobacter, azospirillum, phosphorous solubilizers and potash mobilizers each at 100 g/plot/year) were compared alone and in combination. The rates of organic manures were decided based on the 50 per cent of the potassium requirement of the crop for the region. Biofertilizers in combination with different organic source of manures like farmyard manure, neem cake and vermicompost proved effective in increasing yield and improving fruit quality of pineapple. Considering the yield and quality of fruit, it may be suggested that for cultivation of pineapple cv. Kew organically, application of poultry manure at 21.6 kg/plot/year (857.14 kg/ha) + azospirillum + phosphorous solubilizers + potash mobilizers each at 100g/plot/year (T13) in two splits (January and July) with a benefit: cost of 2.67 can be practiced under the alluvial plains of West Bengal conditions.

Pineapple, farmyard manure, neem cake, vermicompost, poultry manure, biofertilizers NIL 2018-12-18 Research Articles H. Lembisana Devi and S.K. Mitra

H. Lembisana Devi*

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembucherra, West Tripura 799210, Tripura, INDIA

S.K. Mitra

Section Tropical and Subtropical Fruits, International Society for Horticultural Science, B-12/48, Kalyani, West Bengal 741235, INDIA

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1202 1749260884 Innovative Farming October-December (2018) Ladybeetles of Nepal (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) from The Crop Fields at Nepal Agricultural Research Council, Khumaltar, Lalitpur Agriculture 192-197

The diversity of ladybeetles fauna of Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), Khumaltar, Lalitpur is studied in this paper. In this study, 7 species from 4 subfamilies (Chilocorinae, Sticholotidinae, Scymninae and Coccidulinae), 6 tribes (Chilocorini, Epilachnini, Sticholotidini, Scymnini, Noviini and Coccinelini) and 6 genera (Chilocorus, Henospilachna, Jauravia, Pharoscymnus, Rodolia and Scymnus) were collected and identified. The identified species were Chilocorus nigritus (Fabricius, 1798), Henosepilachna kathmanduensis (Miyatake, 1985), Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata (Fabricius, 1775), Jauravia quadrinotata (Kapur, 1946), Pharoscymnus flexibilis (Mulsant, 1853), Rodolia pumila (Weise, 1892) and Scymnus posticalis (Sicard, 1913).

Ladybird beetles, phytophagous, entomophagous, diversity NIL 2018-12-23 Research Articles Sajan, K.C.

Sajan, K.C.

Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science (IAAS), Tribhuvan University, Lamjung, Nepal

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1203 1749261319 Innovative Farming October-December (2018) Improving Drought Tolerance in Rice: A Mini Review Agriculture 198-204

Drought is a serious environmental stress and the major constraint to rice productivity. The extent of yield losses depend on both severity and duration of the drought stress. Drought affects the morphology of rice crop, eliciting responses at physiological and molecular levels. Improving drought resistance in rice has been made through various approaches including agronomic management practices to improved soil moisture status of the target environment. Primary approach for improving drought tolerance in rice is through yield based selection. Alternatively, secondary traits have been targeted for screening plants; however, many times it shows less correlation with the yield. In addition, efforts have been made for drought mitigation using plant growth regulators and osmoprotectants. Transgenic rice expressing HVA1, LEA proteins, MAP kinase, DREB and endo-1, 3-glucanase has been generated, which has shown better tolerance to drought stress. However, none of these are tested in the target environment; therefore utility of such product still remains obscure. This review presents an overview of different drought types, crop responses at physiological level and various approaches for drought breeding integrating conventional, molecular and genetic engineering. In addition importance of drought mitigation through resource management practices for maximising yield and water productivity is highlighted.

Drought, grain yield, water productivity, breeding, secondary traits, QTLs NIL 2018-12-29 Review Articles Ayam Gangarani Devi, Sankar Prasad Das, Anup Das, Gulab Singh Yadav and B.K. Kandpal

Ayam Gangarani Devi*

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura centre, Lembucherra – 799210, INDIA

Sankar Prasad Das

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura centre, Lembucherra – 799210, INDIA

Anup Das

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura centre, Lembucherra – 799210, INDIA

Gulab Singh Yadav

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura centre, Lembucherra – 799210, INDIA

B.K. Kandpal

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura centre, Lembucherra – 799210, INDIA

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1204 1749262487 Innovative Farming Vermicomposting for Efficient Recycling of Biomass for Organic Crop Production in North East India Agriculture 01-14

Vermicomposting is an efficient method of recycling available biomass in and outside the farm. In most of the cases these unutilized biomass/wastes contributes to environmental pollution. Earthworms consume biomass and excrete it in digested form called ‘worm casts’ or ‘vermicast’. The casts are rich in nutrients, growth promoting substances, beneficial soil micro flora and having properties of inhibiting pathogenic microbes. In India a, huge amount of crop residues are available which is either burnt or removed from the field. In North Eastern region (NER) of India also, a considerable amount of crop residues, weed, forest litter and other biomass including livestock excreta are available. The climatic condition of the NER favours the luxurious growth of a number of weeds, shrubs and tree species. All these materials can be very well used for vermicomposting. Though more than twelve species are being used for vermicomposting across the globe, African night crawler (Eudrilus eugeniae Kinberg) and red compost worm (Eisenia foetida Savigny) are widely used species. Vermicompost (VC) is found to be superior to many other organic manures in terms of nutrient content. Application of VC gives better crop growth and yield compared to other manures, when applied in quantities equivalent to the nutrient requirement (N equivalent) of the test crops. The benefit of vermicomposts are better realized when it is produced within the farm itself. Vermicompost can play a great role for promoting organic farming in the country in general and NER of India in particular. Results of field experiments conducted during 2005-18 indicated that almost all the crops recorded higher yield with VC compared to farmyard manure (FYM) and integrated application of 50% FYM + 50% VC. The soil fertility and produce quality improved over the years due to application of VC. The life cycle of earthworms, process of decomposition of biomass, method of vermicomposting, effect on crop production etc. has been discussed in detail in this article.

Earthworms, Vermicomposting, Crop Residues, Recycling, Nutrients, Ecofriendly agriculture, Organic farming NIL 2019-02-14 Review Articles Anup Das, Jayanta Layek, Gulab Singh Yadav, Subhash Babu and Supriya Das

Anup Das

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembuchera, Agartala, Tripura, INDIA

Jayanta Layek*

Division of Crop Production, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam-793 103, Meghalaya, INDIA

Gulab Singh Yadav

 

ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Tripura Centre, Lembuchera, Agartala, Tripura, INDIA

Subhash Babu

Division of Crop Production, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam-793 103, Meghalaya, INDIA

Supriya Das

Ramthakur College, Agartala, Tripura, INDIA

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1205 1749275544 Innovative Farming April-June (2019) Effect of Organic Manures on Growth and Yield of Acid Lime Agriculture 68-71

A research was conducted at Citrus Research Station, Sankarankovil to study the effect of organic manures on growth and yield in acid lime during 2017–2019. The trial had been laid out in a farmer‘s field at Vannikonenthal village, Sankarankovil Taluk, Tirunelveli District. Treatments were imposed in five years old acid lime trees with 8 treatments and 3 replications.  Organic manures viz. Vermicompost (10 kg plant-1), Neemcake (15 kg plant-1) and Pressmud (15 kg plant-1) were applied individually and in combination with 50 % RDF (Recommended Dose of Fertilizers).  Treatment applied with 100 % RDF (Recommended Dose of Fertilizers) serves as control. The results indicated that plants applied with Vermicompost (10 kg plant-1) + Neem cake (15 kg plant-1) + Press mud (15 kg plant-1) along with 50 % RDF gave more yield with more number of fruits per tree as that of plants applied with 100 % RDF.  Pressmud, Vermicompost and Neem cake application had also improved the microbial population of the soil.  Cost Benefit Ratio for application of organic manures is on par with 100 % RDF. Based on these results, Press mud (15 kg plant-1) + Vermicompost (10 kg plant-1) + Neem cake (15 kg plant-1) and 50% RDF (Recommended Dose of Fertilizers) can be applied to get higher yield in Acid lime instead of applying 100 RDF (Recommended Dose of Fertilizers).

Acid lime, Organic manures, Yield NIL 2019-05-19 Research Articles S. Muthulakshmi and K. Sundharaiya

S. Muthulakshmi*

Dept. of Floriculture & Landscape Architecture, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu -625 604, INDIA

K. Sundharaiya

Horticultural Research Station, Thadiyankudisai, Perumparai, Tamil Nadu – 624 212, INDIA

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1206 1749276391 Innovative Farming April-June (2019) Development of Bulky Silk Yarn in Web Silk Reeling Process Agriculture 77-82

CSTRI, CSB, Bengaluru has developed a concept of web silk reeling machine for imparting bulkiness during the raw silk the production using differential traverse mechanism. The process variables viz., differential rotary traverse mechanism speed, reel speed and number of cocoons significantly influences the both reeling and quality characteristics of bulky raw silk and imparts desired bulkiness in the raw silk viz., diameter (bulkiness), productivity average size, size deviation and tenacity of bulky raw silk. The analysis of results also indicate that 3:1 combination between rotary traverse speed and reel speed produces good quality web structured bulky raw silk. The yarn produced using this machine was three times bulkier than the yarn produced from same number of cocoons in regular silk reeling machine. The silk fabrics produced using bulky raw silk in weft has shown better properties in terms of tensile and tear strength, crimp percentgae, abrasion resistance and drape co-efficient, which in turn result in better comfort properties.

Rotary traverse, Bulkiness, Dupion, Abrasion, Drape NIL 2019-05-23 Research Articles Hariraj, G. and Subhas. V. Naik

Hariraj, G.*

Central Silk Technological Research Institute, Central Silk Board, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, BTM Layout, Bangalore – 560 068, Karnataka, INDIA

 

Subhas. V. Naik

Central Silk Technological Research Institute, Central Silk Board, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, BTM Layout, Bangalore – 560 068, Karnataka, INDIA

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1207 1749277131 Innovative Farming April-June (2019) Dairying as Sustainable Livelihood Enterprise for Weaker Sections Agriculture 91-96

Action research was conducted in the Elangiyanur and Samireddipalli villages of Cuddalore and Vellore districts of Tamil Nadu, having highest weaker section and high dairy animal population. Dairying is the livelihood for majority of the farmers in the study area. A total of 100 farmers with dairy animals were selected through participatory approach involving rural local government system. Interventions were carried out in the feeding domain by introduction of proven scientific dairy farming practices and providing inputs such as concentrate feed for 100 days feeding contract, leguminous fodder seed (Hedge Lucerne), mineral mixture, TANUVAS GRAND. Usage of unconventional feed resources (brewery waste and azolla) and preparation of own concentrate feed were also promoted. Economic impact noticed were increase in quantity of milk production by 0.863 and 0.901 liters; increase in quality of milk i.e. fat content by 1.08% and 1.07% and SNF by 1.24% and 1.15%; cultivating green fodder had increased by 24% and 16%; azolla cultivation adopted by 46% and 58% ; conception rate improved by 70.2% and 71%; inter calving period reduced 43% and 47%; average feed cost /day/ animal / litre of milk was reduced from Rs.25.51/- to Rs.13.41/- and Rs.14.75/- to Rs.8.52/- of the beneficiaries in Cuddalore and Vellore district respectively. By adoption of scientific dairy farming technologies, a beneficiary is able to get an additional monthly income of Rs.2070/- in Cuddalore district and Rs.2490/- in Vellore district. Scientific interventions ensured social and financial securities to make dairy farming a sustainable livelihood option.

Dairy farming, livelihood, financial security, participatory approach NIL 2019-05-27 Research Articles Narmatha, N., K.M. Sakthivel, V. Uma, M. Jothilakshmi and S. Karthikeyan

Narmatha, N.*

Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu INDIA

K.M. Sakthivel

Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu INDIA

V. Uma

Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu INDIA

M. Jothilakshmi

Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu INDIA

S. Karthikeyan

Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu INDIA

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1208 1749279488 Innovative Farming Comparative Analysis of Post Cocoon Characters Associated with Filament Length Between Multivoltine Races and Multi X Bivoltine Cross Breeds of the Silkworm Bombyx mori Agriculture 123-128

India is a country with tropical climate and multivoltine silkworm strains play important role in the production of silk, however low productivity and poor fibre quality continued to impair increase in silk production. In this context development of cross breeds (multivoltine x Bivoltine) has gained importance over the years owing to field constraints, fluctuations in the environmental conditions as well as socio economic compulsion. Due to the improved technologies and machinery, there is vast improvement in the post cocoon characters. In this study, we compared important post cocoon characters/parameters, shell ratio, filament length, reelability, renditta, raw silk percent, raw silk recovery, neatness and waste of popular cross breed varieties PM x CSR2 and Nistari x CSR2 with that of pure mutivotine races to establish improved post cocoon parameters of the cross breeds. The significance in improvement was analyzed using Students t-test to show variation in the post cocoon characters between the cross breeds and multivoltine races. Some characters like neatness and reelability were almost equal to that of bivoltine races. The Pearson correlation was employed to analyse the relation between different traits. The relation was significant and showed positive correlation between eight characters, except waste and renditta showed negative correlation with other characters. The quality of silk produced from theses cross breeds were highly improved and showed 2A gradable silk. Therefore, the results indicate the scope for developing potential cross breeds with improved yield characters, particularly filament characters to support the Indian sericulture industry.

Bombyx mori, Cross breeds, Fibre quality, Filament characters, Gradable silk NIL 2019-08-10 Research Articles Aravind, S., Sahar Ismail, Hariraj, K.S. Tulsi Naik, A.R. Pradeep, R.K Mishra, Subhash. V. Naik

Aravind, S.

Central Silk Technological Research Institute (CSTRI), Madivala, Bangalore-560068, Karnataka, INDIA

Sahar Ismail

Seri Biotech Research Laboratory, Kodathi, Bangalore 560035 Karnataka, INDIA

Hariraj

Central Silk Technological Research Institute (CSTRI), Madivala, Bangalore-560068, Karnataka, INDIA

K.S. Tulsi Naik*

Seri Biotech Research Laboratory, Kodathi, Bangalore 560035 Karnataka, INDIA

A.R.  Pradeep

Seri Biotech Research Laboratory, Kodathi, Bangalore 560035 Karnataka, INDIA

R.K Mishra

Seri Biotech Research Laboratory, Kodathi, Bangalore 560035 Karnataka, INDIA

Subhash. V. Naik

Central Silk Technological Research Institute (CSTRI), Madivala, Bangalore-560068, Karnataka, INDIA

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1209 1749280078 Innovative Farming Evolution of New Foundation Crosses of Bivoltine Silkworm Hybrids Under Semi Temperate Conditions of Nilgiris Agriculture 129-135

Twenty nine newly evolved bivoltine pure breeds maintained at the germplasm stock of Satellite Silkworm Breeding Station of Central Silk board, Coonoor, sixteen oval breeds and thirteen dumbbell breeds, were selected as resource material for the study. The breeds were reared in two seasons, studied their efficiency on rearing and reeling performance based on fourteen cocoon and silk yield parameters; seven each of pre-cocoon, viz., fecundity, fifth age larval duration, total larval duration, pupation rate,  single cocoon weight, single shell weight, shell percentage  and post cocoon traits - average filament length (AVFL), non breakable filament length (NBFL), denier, renditta, reelability, and neatness. Using these bivoltine breeds  (viz., sixteen oval cocoon breeds viz., CSR 2, D1, D2,  D 7,  CSR 202, CSR 204, CNR 5, CNR 14,  CNR 15,  SLD 1,  SLD 2,  SLD 4,  Gen 1,  Gen 3, CSR 50   and   thirteen dumbbell cocoon breeds -  CNR 3,  SLD 6,  SLD 8,  SLD 9,   D 11,   D 13,   D 15,  D 17,  GEN 2,  4 C,  CSR 6,  CSR 26,  CSR 51) forty seven new foundation crosses were prepared in P.O. x P.O   (Plain larvae & Oval cocoons)  and M. D. x M.D (marked larvae & dumbbell cocoons) fashion among them in all possible combinations of direct crosses. Two Foundation Crosses- FC1 (CSR6 x 26) for dumbbell foundation crosses and FC2 (CSR 2x 27) for oval foundation crosses were kept as control and evaluated the rearing performance of 49 FCs (47 new FCs and 2 control) for two seasons.  Analyzed the data  on rearing  and reeling parameters  and  short listed them to 14 Foundation crosses for further evaluation and preparation of double hybrids.

Bivoltine silkworm, evaluation, foundation cross NIL 2019-08-20 Research Articles E. Rajalakshmi and N. Sakthivel

E. Rajalakshmi*

Research Extension Centre, Central Silk Board, 162 A, Kuppammal Lay out,   Gobichettipalayam – 638476, Erode, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

N. Sakthivel

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board, Allikuttai, P.O., Vaikkalpattarai,  Salem .- 636003,  Tamil Nadu, INDIA

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1210 1749280612 Innovative Farming Antibiotic Sensitivity Pattern of the Isolated Lactic Acid Bacteria from Silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) Gut Agriculture 140-143

Laboratory study was undertaken at the Department of Agricultural Microbiology, TNAU at Coimbatore to find out the sensitive pattern of lactic acid bacteria isolated from silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) gut. About 21 Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) isolates were isolated from silkworm gut of bivoltine double hybrid {(CSR6 x CSR26) X (CSR2 x CSR27). Susceptibility of the LAB isolates to antibiotics were performed by disc diffusion method. Overnight grown culture of each LAB isolate was spread evenly on the surface of MRS agar plate and allowed to dry. Antibiotic discs were then placed on LAB inoculated plates and incubated at 37°C for 24 hr. In this study, various antibiotics were supplied in the form of dodeca discs (Hi Media, India) which included Cefuroxime (30mcg), Cefaclor (30mcg), Ceftriaxone (30mcg), Cefalexin (30mcg), Ceftazidime (30mcg), Ceftizoxime (30mcg), Cefadroxil (30mcg), Ampicillin (30mcg), Cefaperazone (75mcg), Cefixime (5mcg) and Cefazolin (30mcg). The inhibition zone diameters of all antibiotics were between 0 and 30 mm for  LAB strains isolated and tested after incubation at 37°C for 24 hr. Results were expressed as sensitive (S, ≥ 21 mm), intermediate (I, 16-20mm) and resistant (R, ≤ 15 mm). From total isolates, about 8 LAB isolates (SWGL 1, SWGL 4, SWGL 7, SWGL 9, SWGL 12, SWGL13, SWGL 16 and SWGL 17) were resistant to Cefixime, Cefaperazone, Cefadroxil and Ceftazidime. Six nos. of LAB strains were highly resistant to Cefaclor (SWGL 2, SWGL 3, SWGL 5 and SWGL 6), seven nos. to Ampicillin (SWGL 1, SWGL 3, SWGL 7, SWGL 9, SWGL 14, SWGL 16, SWGL 20 and SWGL 21) and two were intermediate to Ceftriaxone (SWGL 5 and SWGL 12). Three LAB isolates (SWGL 10, SWGL 14 and SWGL 15) were found sensitive to all three antibiotics (Cefazolin, Cefuroxime and Cefalexin). These isolates found to be sensitive to most of the antibiotics tested support for transferring antibiotic resistance genes to pathogenic microbes. They may also be incorporated as a feed for growth and development of silkworm.

Silkworm gut, Lactic acid bacteria, Antibiotics and Susceptibility NIL 2019-08-22 Research Articles Saranya. M., S. V. Krishnamoorthy, D. Balachandar and K. A. Murugesh

Saranya. M.*

Department of Sericulture, Forest College and Research Institute, Mettupalayam, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

S. V. Krishnamoorthy

Department of Sericulture, Forest College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

D. Balachandar

Department of Agrl. Microbiology, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

K. A. Murugesh

Department of Sericulture, Forest College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

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1211 1749280951 Innovative Farming Physiologycal Studies on Silk Gland of Samia ricini (Donovan) Under Thermal Stress Condition Agriculture 144-147

Among non-mulberry silks, only eri silk production is in increasing trend and India stands second in eri silk production. Eri silkworm, Samia ricini is domesticated and polyphagous in nature. In India most of the sericulture belt prevails in the tropical region where temperature goes 32–40 °C during the summer when compared to interior parts. Eri silkworm is poikilothermic insect, temperature will have direct effect on physiological growth and development of the silk gland. The silk gland accumulates proteins during the silkworm development and its growth is importance for the synthesis of silk proteins. The temperature required for eri silkworm is 24-28 oC and above this temperature is harmful to the growth and development of silkworm. Insects have adopted different biological and physiological strategies to overcome changes in their surrounding environment but lack of tolerance in domesticated eri silkworm may affect growth and development of silk gland and eventually silk production. Therefore, the present study was conducted under thermal stress condition (31.2 ± 1°C) to assess some important physiological parameters such as larval weight (g), silk gland weight (g),silk gland somatic index (%) and silk conversion index (%) of different ecoraces Viz. Borduar, Titabar and Mendipathar. The results show that Mendipathar eco race performed better than Borduar and Titabar ecoraces in all the parameter studied.

Eri silk worm, Ecoraces, Silkgland, Thermal stress NIL 2019-09-12 Research Articles Runel Chandra Boro, S. Jayakumar and S. Kalaimohan

Runel Chandra Boro*

Department of Ecology & Environmental Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry-605014, INDIA

S. Jayakumar

Department of Ecology & Environmental Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry-605014, INDIA

S. Kalaimohan

Department of Ecology & Environmental Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry-605014, INDIA

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1212 1749281316 Innovative Farming Role of Inter Batch Crossing on Maintaining the Racial Characters of Bivoltine Silkworm (Bombyx mori L.), at P3 Level Agriculture 148-154

To fulfill the needs of commercial rearers, continuous supply of hybrid layings has to be met by the National Silkworm Seed organization without any hurdles. To meet the demand of the farmers, maintenance of pure races gained major impetus and P3 level maintenance centre was given the major responsibility to cater the needs of P2 multiplication centres of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. It is very well established that continuous maintenance of silkworm races over years will result in inbreeding depression causing decline in the expression of quantitative traits at hybrid level. To overcome inbreeding depression, inter batch crossing technique was adopted from 2010 till date and adoption of inter batch crossing at every cycle helped to maintain the race characters without any deterioration over the years. Comparative performance of the productive races from past eight years at P3 level for the expression of characters viz., fecundity, yield/ 100dfls by number and by weight, single cocoon weight, single shell weight, cocoon shell percentage and pupation rate revealed consistency in the expression of quantitative traits without any inbreeding depression. Among the seven quantitative traits, cocoon shell percentage is an important trait that represents productivity of a race which does not change with the season. Hence, the consistency of a race over years can be measured by this trait. The expression of cocoon shell percentage in all races during 2017-18 when compared to 2011-12 data, showed improvement ranging from 2.10 ~ 3.56%. Mean rearing performance of five races showed marginal variation for cocoon shell percentage over the years and it ranged from 22.9 to 24% in CSR2, 20.8 to 22.1% in CSR4, 20.9 to 22.1% in CSR6, 20.4 to 22% in CSR26 and 24.1 to 24.8% in CSR27. The importance of systematic silkworm race maintenance at P3 level in the expression of quantitative characters is discussed.

Bivoltine race, Inbreeding depression, Inter batch crossing NIL 2019-09-18 Research Articles Kalpana, G.V., C.M. Kishor Kumar, D. Raghavendra Rao and R.K. Mishra

Kalpana, G.V.*

P3, Basic Seed Farm, National Silkworm Seed Organization, Central Silk Board, Mysore -570023, Karnataka, INDIA

C.M. Kishor Kumar

Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Srirampura, Mysore-570008, Karnataka, INDIA

D. Raghavendra Rao

National Silkworm Seed Organization, Central Silk Board, Mysore -570023, Karnataka, INDIA

R.K. Mishra

 National Silkworm Seed Organization, Central Silk Board, Bangalore -560008, Karnataka, INDIA

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1213 1749282724 Innovative Farming Bowl Trap Sampling to Study Pollinator Diversity in Moringa Ecosystem Agriculture 167-173

Honey bees are important pollinator of agricultural and horticultural crops. Moringa, Moringa oleifera Lam. commonly known as drumstick is a vegetable native to India. Due to medicinal and nutritional properties it is also called as ‘miracle tree’. It is highly cross pollinated and entomophilous, bees were major pollinators. Flowers can be a source of nectar and pollen for the pollinators. The objective was to describe the pollinator community in moringa fields, to determine the trap colour that is most appropriate for characterizing their abundance and diversity. Bowl trap is a common method of sampling bees. Totally, bowl traps of three different colours viz., fluorescent yellow, blue and white were used to capture the insect pollinators. Bowl trap catches were recorded for 10 days during peak flowering at 08.00 to 18.00 h. When all trap type captures were combined, we collected 601 individuals and at least 21 species. From the 21 insect species collected, fourteen were belonged to Hymenoptera and seven belongs to Diptera. The most abundant species collected was Condylostylus sp. (Diptera: Dolichopodidae) followed by Halictus sp. (Hymenoptera: Halictidae) and Sarcophaga sp. (Diptera: Sarcophagidae). Most pollinators were captured in fluorescent yellow bowls (353 individuals, 21 species), blue bowls (137 individuals, 18 species) and white bowls (111 individuals, 16 species). In fluorescent yellow trap, Apis cerana indica was collected more followed by Polistes sp., Amegilla zonata and Xylocopa sp. Our data suggest a diverse community of pollinators composed of mostly native flies and solitary bees visit moringa fields and forage on their flowers.

Bowl trap, Diversity, Moringa, Pollinator NIL 2019-09-22 Research Articles Sowmiya, C., M.R. Srinivasan and P.A. Saravanan

Sowmiya, C.*

Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore - 641 003, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

M.R. Srinivasan

Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore - 641 003, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

P.A. Saravanan

Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore - 641 003, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

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1214 1749283044 Innovative Farming Diversity of Mealybug Parasitoids (Chalcidoidea: Encyrtidae) from Tamil Nadu Agriculture 174-177

Sucking pest is one of the major threats in Agricultural and Horticultural ecosystems and mealybug plays a crucial role in higher damage. Parasitic Hymenoptera are a viable alternative for chemical pest control especially for this group of insects. Chalcidoidea is one of the entomophagus insects utilized for mealybug management and within Chalcidoidea, members belonging to Encyrtidae play a major role in bringing down their population in nature. In the present study, surveys were conducted to collect different mealybug hosts along with their host plants from various ecosystems. The collected mealybugs were reared under laboratory conditions and observed for possible parasitoid emergence. The following are the major mealybugs collected and parasitoids reared from them. Cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Aenasius arizonensis (Girault), Prochiloneurus aegyptiacus (Mercet),  Gentakola trifasciata (Saraswat), Promuscidea unfasciativentris Girault.); Papaya mealybug, Paracoccus marginatus Williams and Granara de Willink, Pseudleptomastix mexicana Noyes and Schauff, Acerophagus papayae Noyes and Schauff; Eggplant mealybug, Coccidohystrix insolita (Green) Leptomastix nigrocincta Risbec, L.  nigrocoxalis Compere, Prochiloneurus pulchellus Silvestri, P. aegyptiacus (Mercet), Chartocerus sp. Promuscidea unfasciativentris Girault; Citrus mealybug, Planococcus citri (Rissco) Leptomastix nigrocoxalis Compere; Striped mealybug, Ferrisia virgata (Cockerell) Aenasius advena (Compere), A.indicus (Narayanan and Subba Rao), Anagyrus indicus (Subba Rao), Blepyrus insularis (Cameron); Root mealybug, Formicoccus polysperes Williams: Anagyrus kamali. Blepyrus insularis (Cameron). In addition, the parasitoids were also recognized at trophic level as to primary or secondary parasitoids apart from recording the entomophagous insects of parasitoids, if any.  The host plants, host insects and parasitoids attacking the host insects and entomophages attacking the primary parasitoids are presented in a flowchart depicting the tritrophic relationship for easy understanding by biocontrol workers.

Encyrtidae, Tritrophic relationship, Entomophagus insects, Parasitoid NIL 2019-09-22 Research Articles Ayyamperumal, M., S. Ajaykarthick and S. Manickavasagam

Ayyamperumal, M.*

Department of  Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar, Tamil Nadu- 608 002, INDIA

S. Ajaykarthick

Department of  Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar, Tamil Nadu- 608 002, INDIA

S. Manickavasagam

Department of  Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar, Tamil Nadu- 608 002, INDIA

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1215 1749283369 Innovative Farming Biology of Two Spotted Spider Mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch. (Acari: Tetranychidae) on Mulberry, Morus sp. Agriculture 178-180

Mulberry, Morus sp. is a tropical evergreen plant and their leaves are the only sole food for the mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori due to the presence of some secondary plant metabolites like morin, β sitosterol and other alkaloids. The quality of the mulberry leaves is an important factor for the success rate of sericulture industry. As mulberry plant has excellent greenish foliage which acts as a susceptible host for many pests. Among various pests, the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch. acts as a major pest in the mulberry ecosystem as it affects the leaves quality by sucking the sap content in it. The two-spotted spider mite is a polyphagous sucking pest and dominant mite species reported in green house and field condition, which can survive even in high temperature. The biology of two-spotted spider mite was studied on mulberry leaves (var. MR 2) under laboratory condition (27±5°C and 70±5% R.H.) during March, 2019 at Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University. The present paper adumbrates the duration of different developmental stages such as egg, larvae, protonymph, deutonymph, developmental period, oviposition period and adult longevity (male and female) of two spotted spider mites on mulberry. The higher temperature increases the developmental rate and reduces the duration of developmental stages. The present finding from this research paves way for the selection of appropriate IPM module for the effective management of two spotted spider mite on mulberry.

Biology, Mulberry, Two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae NIL 2019-10-20 Research Articles Silambarasan, S.B. and V. Sathyaseelan

Silambarasan, S.B.*

Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu - 608 002, INDIA

 

V. Sathyaseelan

Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu - 608 002, INDIA

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1216 1749284424 Innovative Farming Effect of Graded Levels of Water Soluble Fertilizers on Growth, Yield of Mulberry and Cocoon Quality Agriculture 185-188

A field experiment was conducted at College of Sericulture, Chintamani, Karnataka, in randomized block design with seven treatments replicated thrice with drip irrigation. The treatments comprises of two sources of fertilizers viz., water soluble fertilizers (WSF) and conventional fertilizers (CF) at four levels (25, 50, 75 and 100% RD of WSF through fertigation) as per the schedule used for application of fertilizers. The type of soil is sandy clay loam in texture with neutral pH, EC of 0.24 dS m-1, 0.62% organic carbon, medium in available N, low in P and high in K content. Shoot height (m), Number of branches (No./plant) and Total number of leaves (No./plant) were higher in the treatment with 100 % RD with water soluble fertilizers against control and CF. Similar trends were observed for leaf yield/plant and leaf yield/ha. The uptake of N, P & K was higher in fertigation with 100% RDF through water soluble fertilizes + FYM (RD). But the performance of Silkworm, Bombyx mori L. in terms of cocoon weight (g/10 cocoons), Shell weight (g/10 cocoons) and Shell ratio (%) was higher in the treatment receiving 75% NPK through water soluble fertilizes (Fertigation) + FYM (RD). These findings indicated that inverse relationship between the nutrient accumulation in mulberry leaves and cocoon parameters in the silkworm B. mori that may be attributed to the increased accumulation of nutrients (particularly nitrogen) leads to decreased production of chlorogenic acid, Flavonal, and increased concentration of 1-deoxynojirimycine might have affected leaf quality and performance of silkworms.

Mulberry, Silkworm, Water soluble fertilizers. NIL 2019-10-27 Research Articles Naveen, D.V., Venkatachlapathi, V., Vinoda, K.S., Bharathi, V.P., Ramakrishna Naika and Venkataravana, P.

Naveen, D.V.*

 

Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Chintamani-563 125, Karnataka, INDIA

Venkatachlapathi, V.

Department of Agronomy, Chintamani-563 125, Karnataka, INDIA

Vinoda, K.S.

Department of Sericulture, Chintamani-563 125, Karnataka, INDIA

Bharathi, V.P.

Department of Sericulture, Chintamani-563 125, Karnataka, INDIA

Ramakrishna Naika

Department of Sericulture, Chintamani-563 125, Karnataka, INDIA

Venkataravana, P.

College of Sericulture, Chintamani-563 125, Karnataka, INDIA

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1217 1749284871 Innovative Farming Early Sprouting Mulberry Genotype - A Boon for Spring Season Silkworm Rearing in North West India Agriculture 189-192

The early sprouting mulberry genotype is an advantage for on time spring crop rearing in the states of NW India because any delay in bivoltine rearing in spring season adversely affects cocoon production. The mulberry varieties which sprout early during the onset of spring season with long photoperiodic conditions are recognized as early sprouting genotype. Early sprouters are preferred for feeding silkworms in the spring season, because they give sufficient quantity of leaves on time in March. With rise in temperature in April, the season becomes unfavorable for silkworm rearing. The sprouting duration of various mulberry varieties in NW India ranges from 33-52 days after winter pruning whereas it takes 11-15 days after monsoon pruning. Normally mulberry varieties take more time for sprouting after winter pruning due to winter dormancy and photoperiodic conditions. Soil moisture plays an important role in leaf bud break after winter dormancy. It needs both increasing temperature and tissue wetting for bud break and shoot emergence to occur with onset of spring season. The mulberry varieties differ in their requirement of moisture and temperature for leaf sprouting and growth. Photoperiod also exerts a considerable influence in the leaf bud break of mulberry. An optimum period of 11 hours illumination is desirable. Increase in the day length use to be observed from February, which coincides with leaf bud break in early sprouting genotypes of mulberry. Photoperiod requirement of different varieties may differ as a result, the early sprouting genotype requires less duration of light to sprout in comparison with other genotypes. The early sprouting mulberry genotypes are useful for feeding chawki silkworms at Chawki Rearing Centres to synchronize adult age rearing with leaf maturity in the field on already existing mulberry trees, which usually sprout late. By on time distribution of chawki silkworms, the cocoon yield in the field improves considerably.

Mulberry, Early sprouting, Sericulture, Chawki silkworms NIL 2019-10-29 Review Articles Santoshkumar Magadum and Sardar Singh

Santoshkumar Magadum*

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board, CSB Complex, Miran Sahib, Jammu- 181101 (J&K), INDIA

 

Sardar Singh

Regional Sericultural Research Station, Central Silk Board, CSB Complex, Miran Sahib, Jammu- 181101 (J&K), INDIA

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1218 1749285295 Innovative Farming Survey and Documentation of Natural Enemies of Maruca vitrata (Geyer) in Pulse Growing Areas of Coimbatore and Pudukkottai Districts Agriculture 193-195

An extensive survey was made at different pulse growing blocks of Coimbatore District viz., Annur, Karamadai, Madhukkarai, Periyanayakkanpalayam, Pollachi, Sulur, Thondamuthur, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) - Orchard and Pudukkottai District viz., Arantangi, Gandarvakottai, Karambakudi, Thirumayam, Thiruvarankulam and National Pulses Research Centre (NPRC), Vamban on the incidence of natural enemies of Maruca vitrata. Survey revealed that the level of parasitism of legume pod borer under field conditions ranged from 0.00 to 30.00 per cent. Highest parasitization of 30.00 per cent was recorded in National Pulses Research Centre, Vamban. Ponnaviduthi village of Karambakudi block in Pudukkottai district recorded the second highest parasitization of 20.00 per cent followed by Irumborai village of Karamadai block in Coimbatore district. During the survey, four larval parasitoids belonging to the families viz., Braconidae and Ichneumonidae were recorded. The braconid parasitoids that were recorded include Bassus sp. and Phanerotoma sp.

Maruca vitrata, Survey, Natural enemies, Braconids, Ichneumonids. NIL 2019-11-10 Research Articles Haripriya, K. and S. Jeyarani

Haripriya, K.*

Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore- 3, INDIA

 

S. Jeyarani

Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore- 3, INDIA

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1219 1749285937 Innovative Farming Effect of Folic Acid and Zinc Chloride on Growth and Economic Traits of Mulberry Silkworm Bombyx mori L. Agriculture 201-203

Fortification of mulberry leaves with dietary supplements is found to be a scientific method of rearing silkworms. In order to investigate the effects of supplementary nutrients to silkworm, Bombyx mori. L an experiment was conducted with Folic Acid and Zinc Chloride treatments. The dietary supplements of Folic Acid 100 ppm (T1) and Zinc Chloride 100 ppm (T2) treated mulberry leaves of V1 variety were fed to silkworm larvae from third day of fifth instar larvae till spinning. These treatments results in a significant increase in biological parameters such as larval weight and economical parameters such as cocoon weight, pupal weight, shell weight and shell ratio % .But, the most important economical parameter shell ratio % of Zinc Chloride treated leaves was not found significant. The Folic Acid treated leaves showed the maximum shell ratio percentage of 20.99% which was found to be the effective treatment. In the present study, it has been concluded that the Folic Acid 100 ppm treated leaves exhibits higher performance over the Zinc Chloride 100 ppm treated leaves.

Bombyx mori, Nutrient supplementation, Economic traits NIL 2019-11-29 Research Articles Jayabal, T.D. and T. R. Manjula

Jayabal, T.D.*

Department of Entomology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

T. R. Manjula

Department of Crop Protection, Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

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1220 1749286253 Innovative Farming Gamma Radiation Induced Phenotypic Diversity in Dendrobium ‘Emma White’ Agriculture 204-206

Dendrobium, one of the largest genera of family Orchidaceae, is economically important both as an ornamental and medicinal crop. Varietal improvement of Dendrobium through the conventional breeding methods is difficult and challenging due to existence of incompatibility among the respective primary gene pool. Gamma irradiation technique is useful to induce variability and generate mutants with improved traits in a short period. In our study, protocorm-like-bodies (PLBs) of Dendrobium hybrid ‘Emma White’ were exposed to gamma rays (10-80 Gy) and in-vitro propagated up to M1V5 generation to raise irradiated plant population. Phenotypic variability was recorded among the plantlets during the ex-vitro semi-hardening stage. Leaf variations in terms of shape, size, structure, surface, tip and colour were observed in 10 Gy irradiated plants. Significant variations were observed in leaf structure and arrangement at 40 Gy. The putative mutants were analyzed for molecular characterization. Among some of the desirable mutants isolated, Mutant line 10/46 was found to exhibit early flowering. The results suggest significant potential of gamma radiation on enhancing genetic variability of both vegetative and flowering traits of Dendrobium hybrid.

Dendrobium, gamma radiation, mutagenesis, phenotypic variation NIL 2019-12-09 Research Articles Sherpa, R., R. Devadas, R. K. Pamarthi, T.D. Nikam, S.N. Bolbhat, P. Suprasanna

Sherpa, R.

ICAR-National Research Centre on Orchids, Pakyong-737106, Sikkim, INDIA

R. Devadas*

ICAR-National Research Centre on Orchids, Pakyong-737106, Sikkim, INDIA

R. K. Pamarthi

ICAR-National Research Centre on Orchids, Pakyong-737106, Sikkim, INDIA

T.D. Nikam

Department of Botany, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune-411007, Maharashtra, INDIA

S.N. Bolbhat

A.A. College, Manchar, Tal. Ambegaon, Pune-410503, Maharashtra, INDIA

P. Suprasanna

Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai-400085, Maharashtra, INDIA

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1221 1749287214 Innovative Farming Characterization of African Marigold Genotypes Using Biochemical Parameters Agriculture 207-209

The experimental material consisted of 67 genotypes collected from different places of India and the experiment was conducted at Western block, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, during two seasons of August, 2013 to November, 2013 and December, 2013 to March, 2014 with 67 diverse genotypes and experiment was laid out under Randomized Block Design with three replications. The shelf life was highest (4.60 days) in AM-29 of Tagetes erecta recorded the maximum shelf life (5.00 days). The maximum carotenoid and xanthophyll content in Tagetes erecta was registered by AM-3 (0.95 mg/g and 146.60 g/kg respectively). The overall performance was found to be superior in AM-29 of Tagetes erecta.

Tagetes erecta, Flower diameter, Flower yield, Caroteniod, Xanthophyll NIL 2019-12-19 Research Articles Lydia, J.

Lydia, J.

Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, INDIA

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1222 1750401078 Biotica Research Today Impact of Sustainable Feed from Vegetable Waste on Coloration in Black Molly (Poecilia sphenops) Agriculture 158-164

A large amount of vegetable and fruit waste is dumped into landfills and rivers every year, posing an environmental hazard. Many of these wastes, including outer leaves, stems, peels and leftover parts are high in nutrients and can be used in the preparation of feed for livestock. To observe the effect of vegetable waste on the pigment concentration of fish, a three-month experiment was conducted. Black mollies (Poecilia sphenops), which are known for their dark skin pigmentation were taken as an experimental species. A total of 18 Black Molly fingerlings (6 per group) were used in the experiment. Survival rate, SGR and FCR was estimated to assess the performance. Pigment concentration data were examined using one-way ANOVA (p<0.05) with SPSS (Version 26). An experimental feed (F3) was prepared by combining three types of vegetable wastes: sponge gourd peel, cauliflower stem and cabbage outer leaves. The effect of this feed was compared to control feed (F2) and commercial feed (F1). The pigment concentration in an experimental fish was measured at 450, 475 and 500 nm before starting the experiment and following its completion. Fish fed with the experimental feed (F3) showed a significantly higher concentration of pigments (0.032 µg g-1, p<0.001) compared to fish fed on F1 and F2. This study concludes that incorporating vegetable waste into fish feed improves pigmentation in fish and offers an environmentally friendly solution to such kind of waste disposal.

Black molly, Environmental pollution, Fish feed, Vegetable waste https://doi.org/10.54083/BRT/7.5.2025/158-164 2025-05-27 Research Articles Vikranti Patel and Kapila Manoj

Vikranti Patel*

Dept. of Zoology, Government College, Daman, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (396 210), India

Kapila Manoj

Dept. of Aquatic Biology, Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, Surat, Gujarat (395 007), India

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1223 1751270103 Biotica Research Today Cage Culture in Umiam Reservoir, Meghalaya through Women Participation: A Success Story Agriculture 168-172

Umiam Reservoir, a small waterbody of approximately 500 ha, is located in mid-altitude region of Northeast (NE) India. Feasibility of cage culture in the reservoir through participatory approach was successfully assessed. Management of cages with participation of local fisherwomen group apparently led to good results and sustainability. Rearing of common carp, Cyprinus carpio along with silver barb, Barbonymous gonionotus appears to be a successful model for cage culture in reservoirs of mid-altitude region in NE India during the summer season for production enhancement. Adoption of stock enhancement module by stocking fishes reared in cages in small reservoirs can be a viable option for sustainable enhancement of fish production.

Cage culture, Participatory approach, Umiam reservoir, Women participation https://doi.org/10.54083/BRT/7.6.2025/168-172 2025-06-13 Success story Pronob Das, Basanta Kumar Das, Birendra Kumar Bhattacharjya, Sanjay Kumar Das, Tasso Tayung, Simanku Borah, Dharmendra Kumar Meena, Sona Yengkokpam, Alakesh Das, Prasanta Mahanta, Amulya Kakati and Sullip Kumar Majhi

Pronob Das*

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Basanta Kumar Das

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

Birendra Kumar Bhattacharjya

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Sanjay Kumar Das

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Ri-Bhoi, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Tasso Tayung

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Ri-Bhoi, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Simanku Borah

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Dharmendra Kumar Meena

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal (700 120), India

Sona Yengkokpam

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Alakesh Das

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Ri-Bhoi, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Prasanta Mahanta

ICAR-Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Ri-Bhoi, Meghalaya (793 103), India

Amulya Kakati

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

Sullip Kumar Majhi

ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre, Guwahati, Assam (781 006), India

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