Archives of Agriculture and Environmental Science

Cluster-based large -scale demonstration of improved wheat technologies in Silte and Gurage Zones, Central Region, Ethiopia

Getachw Dessalegn Shiferaw

Cluster-based large-scale demonstration and popularization of improved wheat varieties with agronomic practices was conducted in Silte and Gurage zones. Four representative districts were selected from the two zones on the basis of EFSRP beneficiary districts. Accordingly, two districts (Misrak Azernet and Worabe town administration) from the Silte zone and two districts (Sodo and Endegagn) from the Gurage zone were selected due to their potential for bread wheat production and high demand for the crop. Training for the participant farmers was given, and different stakeholders participated at each wheat cluster site. The field day was organized on October 12, 2023, at Misrak Azernet district, Mehal Adazer Kebele, to involve key stakeholders and enhance linkages among relevant actors. The wheat variety applied in the Misrak Azernet district, Worabe town, and Debub Sodo district was kekeba, and in the Endegagn district wane variety was used, which are currently productive and high yielding at the recommended agroecology. The descriptive statistics revealed that the average yields of wheat were 47.2, 32.31, 33.13, and 31.5 quintal ha-, and their standard deviations were 8.84, 8.56, 6.33, and 5.8 in Misrak azernet, Worabe town administration, Endegagn, and Debub Sodo districts, respectively. The yields obtained at each cluster site were greater than the national average yield and district productivity. Thus, it is recommended that it is better to disseminate and address wide areas of the community through extension systems with their full packages, including agronomic practices. Farmers should use wheat in clustered form for better management to increase their wheat production and generate more income for their livelihood.

A review of the impact of wildfires on ecosystem, water quality and health risks to humans

OM BANSAL

In the last two decades enhanced anthropogenic activities, global warming and climatic changes have increased the number and intensity of wildfires around the world many folds. Though forest fire is an integral part of shaping the forest’s flora and fauna and maintaining the environment’s health, frequent fires and their severity are causing several adverse impacts on the environment, aquatic organisms, wild animals and humans. Wildfire not only releases the volatile organic pollutants in the environment (in the form of smoke) but also induces changes in soil physicochemical properties and impacts the hydrological cycle. The water retention capacity of soil decreases significantly (35-45%). The ash and sediments which contain semi-volatile organic compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, potentially toxic metals, and anions are deposited in soil with water partially flowing to surface water, and groundwater affecting the drinking water quality. The pH of soil and surface water is altered due to ash which impacts adversely to aquatic organisms and soil microbes. The smoke generated during wildfires adversely affects the health of wild animals and humans. This review aims to report the impacts of wildfires on air quality, drinking and surface water quality and their effects on wild animals and humans

Effect of different packaging materials and calcium chloride on post-harvest longevity of banana (musa paradisica)

ARJUN ACHARYA

Nepal produces large amount of Banana annually but suffers significant losses owing to inappropriate postharvest management. The research was conducted to determine the influence of different packaging materials and Calcium Chloride on banana quality and shelf life. The two-factor experiment has treatments that included polythene (made of ethylene monomers) and fiber bag (made of fiber) of size 60 cm * 60 cm, and open space in combination with calcium chloride concentrations of 1 %, 3 %, and 5%, and untreated fruits as a control, all of which were replicated three times in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The research was conducted for 16 sixteen days and observation taken were physiological weight loss, ripening percent, Titratable Acidity (TA), and Total Soluble Solid (TSS). Polythene bag with 5% CaCl₂ reduced 89.6% weight loss than that of open space with 0 % CaCl₂. Similarly, polythene bag with 5 % CaCl₂ reduced ripening percentage by 10.72% compared to open space with 0 % CaCl₂. Polythene bag also reduced ripening percentage by 4.14% compared to fiber bag at 16^thDay of study. On the 16^th Day, ripening percentage was reduced by 5% by 5% CaCl₂ compared to 0 % CaCl₂.A longer period was observed to reach ripening stage in polythene than those of fiber bag and open space. The polythene bag with 5 % CaCl₂ fruits had the highest TSS content (23.2⁰Brix).

In vitro comparative toxicity of chemical insecticides and botanicals against ladybird beetle, Micraspis discolor F. in Nepal

Puja Khadka

Micraspis discolor F. is the most abundant ladybird beetle in rice ecosystems and serves as an effective natural predator of several economically significant agricultural pests. However, the widespread use of non-selective insecticides has disrupted natural enemy populations, necessitating the identification of safer alternatives to integrate them into pest management strategies. This study evaluated the toxicity of different chemical insecticides and botanicals on adult M. discolor through a laboratory experiment. The experiment followed a completely randomized design with five treatments: Azadirachtin 0.03% EC, garlic extract, Dimethoate 30% EC, Chlorpyrifos 50% EC + Cypermethrin 5% EC, and a control, each replicated five times. Mortality rates were recorded at 24, 48, and 72 hours post-exposure. The results indicated that Chlorpyrifos 50% EC + Cypermethrin 5% EC caused the highest mortality after 72 hours, significantly affecting M. discolor compared to other treatments. Among the tested substances, garlic extract proved to be the safest, as it caused lower mortality than chemical insecticides, although still higher than the control, which exhibited no mortality. These findings highlight the potential of botanical extracts as safer alternatives for pest management, helping to conserve beneficial insect populations.

GENETIC VARIABILITY, CHARACTER ASSOCIATION AND PATH ANALYSIS OF YIELD AND YIELD ATTRIBUTES OF RICE GENOTYPES AT LALITPUR, NEPAL

Rejina Sapkota

Rice is a staple food crop for more than half of the world’s population. Location-specific varietal trials are essential to recommend suitable genotypes with desired agro-morphological and agronomical traits. An experiment was conducted using 12 rice genotypes in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications at Lalitpur, Nepal. The study aimed to assess genotypic variability, character association, and path analysis for various yield and yield-attributing traits. Observations were recorded from five randomly selected plants in each plot, and the averages were used for statistical analysis. Except for flag leaf width and sterility percentage, analysis of variance showed significant differences among the genotypes for all characters, indicating sufficient genetic variability and potential for selection and further improvement. The grain yield (20.26) had the highest genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV). The highest phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was recorded for effective tillers (24.26%), followed by grain yield, straw yield, and number of tillers. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent mean was observed for days of flowering, total grain per panicle, panicle weight, and the number of tillers, indicating the control of additive genes of action and thus, have a greater scope of selection for these traits. Grain yield was positively correlated with panicle length (0.47**), total grain per panicle (0.40*), panicle weight (0.43**), tiller number (0.34*), and straw yield (0.62*). The total grain per panicle (2.55) had the highest positive direct effect on grain yield, which was accompanied by days to flowering, plant height, effective tiller, unfilled grain per panicle, and straw yield. Khumal-4, Khumal-8, and Taichung-176 were found to be three superior genotypes.

Impact of reduced rate of pre-emergence herbicide with aqueous extract of mustard crop residues on different weed management indices and yield of transplant aman rice

Effective weed management enhances rice yields by minimizing competition. Integrating herbicides with crop extracts reduces chemical fertilizer dependency and supports healthier, more productive rice growth by ensuring early weed control. In this respect, from July to December 2023, a field experiment was carried out at the Agronomy Field Laboratory (AFL) of Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh to investigate the effect of variety and aqueous extract of mustard crop residues combined with reduced doses of herbicide on yield and yield attributes of T. aman rice. The study consists of three varieties: BRRIdhan49, BRRI dhan87, Binadhan-7 and seven different treatments such as, no weeding (control), recommended dose of herbicide at pre-emergence (RDHP), mustard crop extract (MCE), 80% of RDHP + MCE, 70% of RDHP + MCE, 60% of RDHP + MCE, weed free. Among treatments, the observed highest weed growth was in control and the lowest in the weed-free treatment, followed by 80% of RDHP with MCE. The weed-free treatment achieved the highest WCI (100), WCE (100), HEI (4.92), and the lowest WI (0.00), WPI (0.00), WMI (1.57), and AMI (0.19), followed by the 80% RDHP + MCE treatment. Grain yield was highest in BRRI dhan87 (5.36 t ha⁻¹) and lowest in BRRI dhan49 (4.54 t ha⁻¹). Weed-free conditions yielded the highest grain yield (5.80 t ha⁻¹), closely followed by the 80% of RDHP + MCE treatment (5.35 t ha⁻¹), with the control producing the lowest yield (2.63 t ha⁻¹). Thus, using 80% of the RDHP with MCE is an effective strategy for controlling weeds and maximizing T. aman rice yield. From the findings, the study indicates that the crop residue extract under investigation and the decreased herbicide rate had a favorable impact on weed development, yield-contributing traits, and T. aman rice production.

Prospects and constraints of coffee production, processing and marketing in Syangja, Nepal

Coffee (Coffea arabica), a major cash crop is one of the most consumed beverages in the world, grown in mid-hills of Nepal is considered as Himalayan specialty coffee and its demand is growing in both domestic and international markets. Coffee cultivation in Syangja is gradually expanding as farmers recognized the economic potential of coffee farming with favorable climate, altitude, and soil conditions of Syangja. In order to find out the further possibilities and constraints of coffee production, processing and marketing in Syangja district, a household survey was conducted within the working site of PMAMP, Syangja with a total of 120 respondents, selected by mixed sampling and interviewed with a pre-tested semi-structured interview schedule. Information collected were analyzed using SPSS, MS-Excel which revealed that there is high possibility of coffee production in Syangja district as 61.7% of respondents perceived ‘very good’ prospect of commercial coffee farming in Syangja with the factors climatic suitability, market demand, potential economic status and Government status ranked 1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd, and 4^th respectively. The existing demand supply-gap, import-export gap and government’s effort towards providing training and technical advices, subsidy on initial investment through PMAMP, coffee super zone, and increase in minimum support price for farmers by NTCDB has provided additional advantage and encouraged farmers to produce more. Despite having all these advantages, coffee production has been constrained by the prevalence of diseases and pest mainly white stem borer, ranked 1^st with index score 0.846, high initial investment ranked 5^th with index score 0.361. Similarly, coffee processing has been constrained by improper coffee cherry harvesting (ranked 1^st with index score 0.90), weather change (climate change), water scarcity and storage problem, delay in cherry transport and human resource scarcity (ranked 5^th with index score 0.45). Coffee market has been constrained by low profit (ranked 1^st with index score 0.740), high price fluctuation, unavailability of human resources, inadequate coffee supply, lack of storage facility and transportation problem (6^th with index score 0.385). Due to all these issues, the development of coffee sub-sector has not been as much as it should have been.

Neglected and Underutilized fruits in Nepal: Importance, Challenges and Conservation approaches

Barsha Mahato

This paper investigates the Neglected and Underutilized fruits (N&U fruits) available in Nepal along with their importance, challenges and conservation approaches. N&U fruits play a crucial role in economic, nutritional, ecological, and genetic sustainability, particularly in regions like Nepal. These fruits contribute significantly to rural and national economies by providing market opportunities for smallholder farmers. Furthermore, these fruits are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, which contribute to food security and aid in managing malnutrition and various health issues. Ecologically, N&U fruits support biodiversity conservation, enhance soil stability, and provide essential resources for pollinators and wildlife. Additionally, many of these species are highly resilient to adverse climatic conditions and can thrive with minimal agricultural inputs. Genetic conservation of these species is imperative for future breeding programs. Despite their importance, N&U fruits face significant challenges, including limited research and development, favouring high yield exotic varieties, climate change impacts, and socioeconomic barriers. To address these issues, conservation approaches such as on-farm, in-situ, and ex-situ preservation strategies are being implemented. Nepal’s government, along with various national and international agencies, has introduced programs and policies to enhance fruit research, development, and conservation efforts. Strengthening these initiatives can lead to the sustainable utilization and commercialization of N&U fruits, ultimately benefiting rural communities, biodiversity, and food security.

The Impact of Agricultural Credit on Profitability and Efficiency of Onion Cultivation in a Selected Area of Bangladesh

Onion is one of the most important commercial spice crops in Bangladesh, grown and consumed almost all over the country. The purpose of this study was to look at the socioeconomic factors, loan profile, profitability and efficiency, as well as the effect of credit on onion production in Bangladesh's Pabna district. It did this by using the stochastic production frontier method and profitability analysis. Primary data were collected through a field survey of 120 onion farmers using a semi-structured interview schedule. The major findings of this study revealed that the majority of the sample farmers were between the ages of 30 and 64; the average family size and annual household income were 5.36 persons and Tk. 264,450 (US$ 2409.57). About 85 percent of the loan money was used for onion cultivation in the study area. Onion production was profitable in the study area. Per hectare, total cost, total return, gross margin, net return, and benefit-cost ratio (BCR) were Tk. 384090.5 (US$ 3499.69), 973657 (US$ 8871.59), 671957.5 (US$ 6122.62), 589566.5 (US$ 5371.90), and 2.53, respectively, for the credit group and Tk. 378412 (US$ 3447.95), 895920 (US$ 8163.28), 599761 (US$ 5464.79), 517508 (US$ 4715.33), and 2.37, respectively, for the non-credit group. The mean farmer's technical efficiency was 94 percent. The impact of credit on onion cultivation was positive. The coefficient was 0.081, which was significant at the 1 percent level. As the study area has tremendous potential for onion production, sufficient agricultural credit should be available for the onion farmers.

Evaluating Efficacy of Newly Introduced Herbicides Against Coffee Weeds at Sidama, Ethiopia

Malkamu Fufa

Weed is the major limiting factor of coffee production in Ethiopia. Weeds in coffee cause a 65% yield reduction in the country. Nowadays, the expense of weed management has been a principal issue in Ethiopia's economic analysis of coffee production. Herbicide is the best weed management option in coffee production. Thus, the newly introduced herbicide verification trial was conducted on-site at the Hawassa Agricultural Research Center and Awada Coffee Research sub-center site in 2024, during the cropping season, to evaluate the efficacy of the newly introduced herbicide. The experiment consists of five (5) treatments of Wanda 48%SL (Glyphosate 48% g/l SL) test herbicide and XTrim 48%Sl, True killer, and Gly care 480%g/l SL, as a standard check and weedy control as a negative control. The herbicides effectively reduced weed density and improved weed control efficiency compared to weedy control. The tested herbicide Wanda 48%SL (Glyphosate 48 g/l SL) was fully controlled in the experimental plot, similar to a standard herbicide with one-time application for one season. This result suggested that one-time application at vigorous weed growth is mandatory to achieve full control throughout the season equivalent to standard control herbicides. Therefore, Wanda 48%SL (Glyphosate 48g/l SL) at 3 L/ha within 250L/ha water with one-time application per season is recommended to control weeds in coffee as an alternative management option. According to this study, all the evaluated herbicides can control coffee weeds, without different control duration. All standard checks True killer, Glycare 480% g/l SL, XTrim 48% SL, and the tested herbicide Wanda 48%SL (Glyphosate 48g/l SL) controlled weed species within 7 to 21 days.

Optimizing Soil Quality and Mustard (Brassica Juncea) Yield through Spacing and Sesbania Incorporation

Israt Jahan Irin

Soil fertility is an important variable in achieving higher production scales. The enhancement of soil organic matter through sustainable methods is a critical consideration in agricultural practices. Sesbania is frequently utilized as an alternate material for soil fertility improvement since it improves the physico-chemical characteristics of soil and supplies plant nourishment after decomposition. An experiment was conducted at Khulna Agricultural University to examine the yield, yield attributes, and soil fertility of mustard in relation to plant spacing and sesbania incorporation. The study included six treatments, which consisted of three different spacings, along with the incorporation of sesbania green manuring crops as a soil amendment and using BARI-14 sarisha as the test crop.The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (factorial) with three replications. The findings of the experiment showed that majority of the yield and yield components notably varied with variation of spacing and sesbania application. Results showed that sesbania incorporated soil with optimum (30 x20 cm) plant spacing positively impacted highest mustard yield (1.66 t ha^-1), 5% more oil content and 2.4% more siliqua plant^-1 compared to no green manuring plot. Furthermore, compared to soils without sesbania incorporation, sesbania plot showed higher levels of organic matter (7%), nitrogen (30%), phosphorous (30%), and potassium (50%). Plants set up widely (30 x30 cm) brought in more siliquae plant^-1, seeds siliqua^-1 and 1,000-seed weight than closer spacing. Therefore, an optimal spacing of 30 x 20, along with the integration of sesbania, is required to achieve enhanced mustard yield and oil content, as well as improved soil fertility.

Determinants and Possible Challenges to the Adoption of Local Kalanamak Rice in the Western Terai Region of Nepal

Local rice landraces, a crucial component for maintaining agricultural biodiversity, food and nutrition security, and a reservoir of genetic materials for breeding, are facing a significant decline in cultivation by farmers. This decline, attributed to various socio-economic, biotic, and abiotic factors and productivity-related challenges, underscores the urgent need for intervention.This research, conducted in the Kapilvastu district of Nepal, surveyed 169 farmers (70 adoptSSing local Kalanamak and 99 adopting improved varieties) using purposive sampling in 2023. The findings of this study have the potential to impact the conservation and promotion of local Kalanamak rice significantly.Among six socioeconomic and production parameters studied, the size of the household head, years of schooling, and total rice productivity significantly affected the adoption of rice varieties. Size of household (β=1.053, P =<0.05, and OR=2.866) and years of schooling of household head (β=0.404, P=<0.05, OR =1.498) showed a significant positive effect on rice adoption. The odds ratio (OR) revealed that the likelihood of adopting kalanamak rice increases with the increase in the size of the household and the number of years of schooling of the household head. On the contrary, total productivity (β= -10.216, P< 0.01, OR = 0.001) significantly affected the adaptation of rice varieties. The extremely low value of OR revealed that the likelihood of adoption of kalanamak rice decreases due to low productivity. Problem analysis showed that disease and pest infestation, irrigation, and high cost of seed, fertilizer, and farm machinery were highly persistent and impactful problems faced by kalanamak rice-adopting farmers.These findings underscore the urgent need for policy interventions that prioritize larger households and provide training facilities for low-educated farmers. Developing highly productive and disease-resistant Kalanamak cultivars and price subsidization in fertilizer, seed, and farm machinery could significantly promote the sustainable conservation of Kalanamak rice.

Effect of different concentration of Ethephon on ripening and postharvest quality of banana (cv. Malbhog) in Chitwan district, Nepal

Barsha Mahato

A research study entitled effect of different concentration of Ethephon on ripening and postharvest quality of banana (cv. Malbhog) in Chitwan district, Nepal was conducted to find out the best concentration of Ethephon on banana ripening and quality parameters after harvest under ambient room temperature (28±5°C) and 64% RH. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized design which comprised of five treatments; Control, Ethephon @ 200 ppm, Ethephon @ 400 ppm, Ethephon @ 600 ppm and Ethephon @ 800 ppm replicated four times. Different postharvest parameters were recorded on alternate days for 9 days. From the experiment, the use of Ethephon @ 600 ppm and Ethephon @ 800 ppm was found more effective regarding banana ripening and other parameters. On the 9^th days after storage, firmness decreased significantly with ripening, with the lower firmness recorded in bananas treated with Ethephon @800 ppm (1.23 kg/cm²) and Ethephon @600 ppm (1.35 kg/ cm²). Similarly, the highest pulp to peel ratio (3.71) was recorded with Ethephon @ 800 ppm. The maximum TSS (23.75 ˚Brix) was recorded in bananas treated with Ethephon @ 800 ppm which was at par with the effect of other concentrations of Ethephon. TA also peaked in bananas treated with Ethephon @800 ppm (0.67%), correlating with increased enzymatic activity during ripening. Moreover, Ethephon significantly accelerated ripening, with bananas treated with Ethephon @800 ppm requiring only 5.50 days and Ethephon @600 ppm requiring 6.00 days to ripen. The respondent gave a higher score for bananas treated with Ethephon @600 ppm and Ethephon @800 ppm. Overall acceptability regarding sweetness, flavor was superior in Ethephon treated bananas than the control bananas.

Keywords: Banana, Postharvest, Quality, Ripening, Ethephon

Production and marketing system of Mustard (Brassica juncea) in some selected areas of Bangladesh

Mohammad Rashidul Haque

This paper evaluates the marketing efficiency of Mustard (Brassica juncea) especially the mustard developed by BINA (Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Research) named BINA Sarisha-11, an oilseed crop, in selected areas of Bangladesh, namely Rangpur, Jamalpur, and Magura. The major objectives were to evaluate the cost of cultivation and returns, identify participants in the marketing chain, and analyze marketing costs, margins, and efficiency at different levels. Data from 180 respondents were collected through a stratified random sampling technique, out of which 90 were farmers and the remaining 90 were traders. Analytical tools used included profitability and marketing efficiency models. The results indicated that cultivation of Binasarisha-11 is profitable, giving an average net return of BDT. 51,291/ha with a benefit-cost ratio of 1.94 on a full-cost basis. Marketing efficiency varied across chains; the Farmer to Retailer to final Consumer chain was the most efficient, least costly, and with the highest producer share of 64.61%, while the longer chains were more costly with reduced producer shares. The farmers complained of problems such as unavailability of seeds, high prices for fertilizers, lack of training, among others, while traders complained of unstable prices and high costs of transportation as major challenges. The study has underscored that there is a real need for policy intervention in streamlining marketing chains, improving access to inputs, and addressing market infrastructure challenges to ensure profitability and efficiency in the Mustard (Binasarisha-11) value chain.

Status of Large Cardamom in Nepal: Trend of Production, Marketing, Challenges and Prospects

Large Cardamom (Amomum subulatum) is a valuable export commodity of Nepal, grown mainly in the hills that fetch higher prices compared to other agricultural products. Its cultivation has now spread to 53 districts beyond the eastern regions of the country. This study has analyzed data from the MoALD and other publications to track the trends in large cardamom acreage and production over the past 12 years. The peak production and productivity were recorded in the year 2019/20 which was 9545 Mt. and 0.58 t/ha respectively. However, production has declined due to various challenges such as diseases and insects. The study thus focuses on identifying requirements for improving large cardamom production, including disease management, suitable cultivars, and orchard management techniques. The marketing system and challenges related to price instability are also discussed, along with potential solutions. Additionally, the study proposes future goals to enhance productivity and evaluates the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) of the large cardamom production and marketing in Nepal.

Synergy of biochar and organic fertilizer improves soybean (Glycine max L.) growth by alleviation of nutrients stress in a strongly acidic Taiwanese soil

Marianus Ngui

Biochar and organic fertilizer are gaining recognition in modern agriculture practices due to their ability to improve soil fertility and crops development. This research article presents findings of a study aimed to investigate the effects of applying a combination of biochar and organic fertilizer on soil physico-chemical properties and the growth attributes of soybean (Glycine max L.) in a strongly acidic soil of Taiwan. A greenhouse and pot experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with two-factorial treatments, in three replications. After fifteen (15) days of amendment, there was significant increase in soil pH through various rates contrary to control soil group (CK). Moreover, treatment B₃₅F₁₄₀ resulted in higher soil P availability, specifically 22.89% more than the CK soil group. In addition, forty-five (45) days after the amendment, organic matter, available potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) increased by 19.59%, 236.05%, 38.39%, 112.76%, 7.01%, and 44.59% in the application of treatments B₇₀F₁₄₀, B₃₅F₁₄₀, B₃₅F₁₀₅, B₇₀F₁₄₀, and B₃₅F₇₀, respectively, compared to the control soil group (CK). The application of treatment B₇₀F₁₄₀resulted in the highest plant height by 30.86% while treatment B₃₅F₁₄₀ resulted in more leaves number per plant by 54.55% compared to soybean plants in the CK treatment. Moreover, root hairs extensively grew in the soybean crops cultivated in the amended soils than those observed in the CK treatment. Conclusively, our findings have attested that the combination of biochar and organic fertilizer could improve soil and soybean growth characteristics in a short-term pot and greenhouse study.

GROWTH AND YIELD RESPONSE OF GROUNDNUT CULTIVARS TO SELECTED RATES OF PHOSPHOROUS AND SOIL AMENDMENTS IN SOUTHERN GUINEA SAVANNA OF THE GAMBIA

Sagarr AF Jallow

A field trial was conducted during the wet growing season of 2022 at the Gambia College Research Farm to evaluate selected rates of phosphorous and soil amendments on growth and yield of groundnut cultivars.The treatments included two groundnut cultivars and sixteen rates of phosphorous and soil amendments and their combinations Application of P at 30 kgha^-1 + FYM at 5,000 kgha^-1 recorded the highest number of branches (18.67) and largest canopy (57.93cm), highest pod weight (1088.70 kg ha^-1) and kernel yield (1025.50 kg ha^-1). From the outcome of the results, it can be concluded that application of P at 30 kgha^-1 + FYM at 5,000 kgha^-1, followed by P at 30 kgha^-1 + Biochar at 2500 kgha^-1 and P at 60 kgha^-1 had led to the production of highest pod and kernel yields of groundnut. These results suggest that improved P supply could compensate for the limitations of low groundnuts productiuvity in nutrient scarce soils of Guinea Savanna by boosting morphological traits and yield parameters.

A review on co-composting of biosolids and its use in crops cultivation for agriculture sustainability

Sheetal Rani — 2024-12-25

Generation and disposal of biosolids (solid and semisolid materials left after the wastewater treatment) has becoming a challenge globally. A large number of objectionable components like heavy metals, pesticides, detergents and pathogens restricts the direct application of biosolids in the cultivation of agricultural crops as it contaminates the soil as well as the cultivated crops and causes health issues. Co-composting of biosolids can be a viable option to utilize the biosolids in a definite proportion along with different types of biodegradable materials (co-substrate) such as, kitchen waste, agricultural residues, forestry waste and waste from the animal husbandry etc. Co-composting improves the nutrients status of the composted biosolids and reduce the risk of accumulation of toxic heavy metals and pathogens in the soil and cultivated crops. The application of biosolids compost in to the soils significantly improve the physical structure, nutrients composition and microbial profile of the soils and subsequently enhance the crops productivity. It also reduces the risk of contamination of the soils and cultivated agricultural crops in comparison to the direct use of biosolids in soil amendment. In this paper we discussed the use of biosolids in agriculture, co-composting of biosolids with different co-substrates and their application in the cultivation of different agricultural crops for sustainable agriculture production.

Effect of technological interventions on yield gap analysis and profitability of winter onion (Allium cepa L.) varieties

M. A. Khan — 2024-12-25

The present study was conducted in growing onion through front line demonstrations (FLDs) by Spices Research Sub-Centre, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Faridpur, Bangladesh during winter season of 2023-2024. The experiment was set up at five farmers’ fields under five villages such as Ramchandrapur, Bajarkandi, Bisnudia, Chilarkandi and Narasinghdia of Faridpur district. Under the present investigation, two high yielding recent varieties (BARI Piaz-4 and BARI Piaz-6) with improved management practices was intervened to exhibit its performance, to find out yield gaps and to assess profitability of onion. A local variety with farmers’ traditional practices was grown (as check) adjacent to the demonstration plot. The study revealed a large average yield gap (5.33 t/ha). The demonstration variety produced higher average yield (20.01 t/ha) as compared to the local variety (16.67 t/ha). The average demonstration yield was 19.97% higher than that of local variety. The technology gap and extension gap had higher in BARI Piaz-4 (2.22 & 3.66 t/ha) as compared to those of BARI Piaz-6 (1.76 & 3.01 t/ha), respectively. The technology index of BARI Piaz-4 and BARI Piaz-6 were 9.65 and 8.38%, respectively. Lower technology index proves the strength of new technology with recommended package of practices. Adoption index value of BARI Piaz-6 was higher (77.78%) than that of BARI Piaz-4 (66.66%). The demonstration varieties performed also better over control based on the quality parameters. Demonstration variety gave higher average gross return (Tk. 927770 ≅ $7731), net return (Tk. 690110 ≅ $5751) and benefit-cost ratio (3.90) over local variety (Tk. 707000 ≅ $5892, Tk. 463450 ≅ $3862 & 2.90), respectively. Considering yield, quality and profitability; farmers expressed their satisfaction to the performance of BARI Piaz-4 and BARI Piaz-6 with improved management practices. But farmers preferred BARI Piaz-6 over BARI Piaz-4 based on quality and market price of onions.

Influence of sowing dates and weeding regimes on growth attributes and maize dry fodder yield

Swapan Kumar Paul — 2024-12-25

Effective agricultural practices are pivotal for ensuring optimal crop yields and sustainable farming. Two critical factors that significantly influence crop productivity are the date of planting and the weeding regime. An experiment was carried out to investigate how the timing of planting and the frequency of weeding impact the growth characteristics and fodder yield of maize. The study involved three planting dates viz. 15 November (D₁), 15 December (D₂) and 14 January (D₃) along with five different weeding regimes viz. no weeding (W₀), two hand weedings at 15 and 30 days after sowing (DAS) (W₁), pre-emergence herbicide (pendimethalin) + one hand weeding at 30 DAS (W₂), post-emergence herbicide (pyrazosulfuran-ethyl) + one hand weeding at 30 DAS (W₃), and pre-emergence herbicide (pendimethalin) + post-emergence (pyrazosulfuran-ethyl) herbicide (W₄). The growth characteristics and the amount of dry fodder produced were notably affected by the timing of planting, the method of weeding and how these factors interacted. At harvest, the tallest plant (138.48 cm) and total dry matter production plant^-1 (37.32 g) were recorded in the plants sown on 15 November with the application of pre-emergence herbicide (pendimethalin) + one hand weeding at 30 DAS. The maximum number of leaves plant^-1 (13.33) and leaf chlorophyll content (116.60) were obtained from15 November with the application of pre-emergence herbicide (pendimethalin) + post-emergence (pyrazosulfuran-ethyl) herbicide and 14 January with the application of pre-emergence herbicide (pendimethalin) + one hand weeding at 30 DAS. The highest dry fodder yield (4.14 t ha^-1) was achieved with maize planted on 15 November and treated with pre-emergence herbicide (pendimethalin) + one hand weeding at 30 days after sowing. Based on the study, it can be concluded that planting on November 15 using a pre-emergence + one hand weeding 30 days after sowing may result in the tallest plants, maximum total dry matter production and the maximum dry fodder yield of maize.

A study on family farm-enterprise of producers in rural communities of the Gambia

S. E. Sanyang — 2024-12-25

The agricultural systems of the Gambia entirely depend on rain-fed agriculture, and it propels economic growth. Agriculture's contribution to the Gambia's GDP is 22%. The Gambia's economy heavily depends on agriculture and provides 30–40% of the country's foreign exchange earnings. Family farm enterprise is a lucrative business, but limited research work has been done to determine its economic contributions in improving the livelihoods of producers. The problem statement of the research work is to identify knowledge gap, finance, and markets of family farm producers to enhance production capacity, yield and income. The objective identifies the contribution of family enterprise to the economy, and to address the challenges that affects profitability. The study applied a purposive sampling technique for qualitative and quantitative approaches. The methodology of data collection was focus group discussion, key informants’ interviews and review of secondary data from other research work. A total of (5) focus group discussions, (90) interviews and (10) key informants was conducted in 3 agricultural regions. The results showed female participates immensely in family farm production than male of 443 and 25 respectively. The result showed positive contribution in socio-economic development were North Bank Region scored D2, 709,225 while lowest income earned was Central River Region amounting to D279,700.00 respectively. In conclusion, family farm enterprises can boost local economy of rural communities enhancing livelihoods. Thus, recommend government to create easy access to finance, market and training on business management skills for the family members engaged in agriculture as a business entity.

Rehabilitation of agro biodiversity in Karnali river basin of Nepal

Janak Pant

Loss of biodiversity has been one of the major challenges of Karnali river basin. So, an experiment and discussion were conducted to determine various methods in rehabilitating agricultural biodiversity in Mugu and Jumla districts of Karnali basin from January 2021 to January 2024. Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) method was used to make comparison between indigenous versus modern method of seed conservation, climate smart versus modern method of farming, water resources in soil: cement tank versus cement tank, compost manuring versus chemical fertilizer, crop diversification versus single cropping, improved shed versus non-improved shed and use of traps versus chemical pesticides. Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was carried to determine information in local seed promotion (seed bank, seed treatment). Eco-farming (Ecosystem balancing, Perma-garden), socio-ecological management, agro-biodiversity promotions, and policy interventions. Indigenous or climate smart farming methods or seed conservation, application of internal resources such as composts, promotion of local seed through seed banks or seed treatment, socio-ecological biodiversity management including promotional intervention of agricultural biodiversity and strengthening government policies have found viable and effective method to rehabilitate agricultural biodiversity in Karnali river basin of Nepal.

The Assessments and identification of major insect pests on sweat orange (Citrus sinensis) in the field at Darasalaam District, Somaliland.

Jamaal Barre

Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis L.) is one of the most important fruit crops in the Darasalaam District. However, in the study area, biotic factors like insect pests have contributed to the decreasing production of sweet oranges per unit area. Hence, a field survey was carried out in 2024 to assess major insect pests of sweet orange in the field in order to develop an effective and safe insect control strategy for the orange fruit farms in the Darasalaam District. Among three extensive sweet orange-growing villages namely Maluugta, Horri-Haadlay, and Kal-Qoray were selected based on Citrus sinesis production potential and the importance of insect pests. During the survey, a total of 214 sweet orange orchards were assessed. 102 farmers were selected from Horro-Hadley, 65 farmers were selected from Maluugta and, 47 farmers from Kal-Qoray. Non- probability sampling, especially the purposive sampling technique was used. In order to quantify qualitative phenomena related to the ranking of the main insect pests on sweet orange orchards, indexing was carried out. Survey data from the questionnaire, interview and focus group discussions were subjected to descriptive statistical analysis. At the end, data was coded and subjected to SPSS version 20 computer software. According to the survey result, a total of six insect pests were reported as key insect pests. Leaf miners, mealybugs, brown scale insects, citrus black flies, fruit-sucking moths, and pysllids were identified as major pests on all range farms. These major insect pests were ranked by individual respondents of farmers’ surveys with 6 as the highest rank and 1 as the lowest rank. Weightage was given for the ranked position as 1.6, 1.1, 0.79, 0.42, 0.20, and 0.06 for first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and six positions respectively. Likewise, according to major reasons for insect pest incidence, climate change received an index of 1.40, placing it in the first rank, followed by poor management practices with an index of 0.41, lack of knowledge regarding the types of insects was assigned an index of 0.19, ranking it third, while the weak planting material and poor fertility status of the soil ranked four and five, with indices of 0.08 and 0.02, respectively. This study provides benchmark information about major insect pests of sweet oranges in the field in order to develop an effective and safe insect control strategy for the orange fruit farms in the Darasalaam District.

Key words: sweet orange, insect pests, infestation, decreasing of production, incidence

EVALUATION OF INTERCROPPING LEGUMES AND GREEN MANURING ON SOIL PROPERTIES IN MAIZE FIELD

Crop failure, due to moisture shortage in the soil is very common due to high evaporation. Therefore, using the advantage and opportunity of covering legumes as an intercrop simultaneously solves the problems, improving soil nutrient balance. A field experiment was conducted at the Lamjung campus, Sundarbazar from March to July of the year 2023 to evaluate the effect of different legumes and green manuring on soil moisture improvement. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with five treatments (Maize, Maize+Cowpea, Maize+Frenchbean, Maize+Soybean, and Maize+Green manuring) and 4 replications. The results revealed that incorporating green manuring +maize had significantly (2.34 times) better soil moisture than control after the harvest (at p<0.05), while the bulk density has an inverse relation to soil moisture observing higher value in control. It is due to the natural mulch layer created by green manure on the soil's surface and also, because of the high organic matter produced due to decaying of the leaf. The findings also revealed that the green manure has a 1.17 times lower temperature as compared to the control. Comparing, the organic carbon content among different treatments, green manure fixed 2.21 times more than control. The maximum ear length of 20.72cm and a larger diameter of 3.22cm were observed in green manure than control, as green manure fixes more nitrogen (2.25%), which is essential for cell division and elongation. The study hence suggests that green manuring would be more beneficial owing to better maize yield and enhancing soil physical properties.

GENETIC DIVERSITY AND MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF WHEAT (Triticum aestivum L.) LANDRACES IN NEPAL

Sixty 60 wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) landraces were evaluated for the genetic diversity and morphological characterization at the National Agriculture Genetic Resources Centre (Genebank) in Khumaltar, Lalitpur, with the objective of identifying high-yielding genotypes and understanding their genetic variability. In these accessions, both qualitative and quantitative traits were investigated for days to heading, plant height, spikelet density, thousand grain weight, yield per hectare, and seed dimensions. Significant genetic variation was observed across most traits, suggesting considerable potential for genetic improvement through direct selection and conservation. Cluster analysis divided the accessions into two distinct groups, with Cluster 1 (including NGRC07999, NGRC02556, NGRC00158, NGRC02584) showing superiority in traits such as plant height and spikelet density, while Cluster 2 (NGRC06285, CO15013) excelled in yield-related traits. The principal component analysis revealed that the first five components accounted for over 70% of the total variation, highlighting traits such as plant height, spike exertion, and thousand grain weight as key contributors. These findings underscore the importance of conserving genetic diversity and utilizing landraces for future wheat improvement programs.

Probiotics in aquaculture: A pathway to safer and healthier fish farming

Rakibul Islam — 2024-12-25

Aquaculture benefits greatly from probiotic bacteria, which are also very helpful in preventing a number of infectious diseases. They can be use in place of antibiotics and antimicrobials. Fish that take probiotics have stronger immune systems and grow faster. They aid in the elimination of heavy metals in addition to fostering fish development. Although probiotics can be extracted from a variety of sources, the fish's own stomach is the best source for probiotics. The source of putative probiotics is the same as that of the organism ingesting them. Potential probiotics can flourish in the fish gastrointestinal tract since they are already acclimated to the conditions of the fish gut. Numerous bacteria have been used as probiotics in various experiments, primarily as a feed supplement at varying concentrations. Fish treated with probiotic bacteria have shown positive effects such as improved growth with lower production costs, improved reproductive performances, improved immunology, and disease resistance. When utilized in place of commercial antibiotics and antimicrobials, which can lead to resistance against bacterial species when overused, probiotics can be advantageous for fish farmers. In this paper, aquaculture probiotics, their types, work of mechanism and their uses have been discussed for sustainable aquaculture productivity.

Environmental and human factors affecting Indian major carps' spawning in Halda River, Bangladesh

Kazi Rabeya Akther — 2024-12-25

The spawning success of Indian major carps (IMCs) in the Halda River is intricately linked to favorable environmental and hydrological conditions, which have shown significant variability in recent years. This research aimed to investigate the environmental and anthropogenic factors driving to decline in IMC spawning and propose sustainable management strategies. Field investigations were conducted across four key spawning sites, analyzing hydrological parameters, climatic trends, and anthropogenic influences. Results revealed a sharp decline in IMC spawning success in the year 2021, with egg production dropping to 8,580 kg and fry yield to 105.73 kg which reductions of 66% and 73.3%, respectively, compared to 2020. Key environmental stressors included rising temperatures (contributing 90% of observed variation), reduced rainfall (86%), decreased hill water runoff (84%), and saline intrusion (76%). Anthropogenic disturbances, such as pollution (76%), river bend cutting (80%), rubber dams’ installation (78%), and abandoned sluice gates (84%), intensified these challenges. This study reveals climatic and anthropogenic impacts on IMC spawning decline in the Halda River, stressing the need for ecosystem-based conservation. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted mitigation measures, including minimizing anthropogenic disturbances and restoring natural river dynamics, to enhance the resilience of IMC spawning habitats and ensure sustainable fisheries in the Halda River.

Econometrics analysis of Consumers’ Willingness to purchase organic fruits and vegetables in Kathmandu Valley.

Susan Thapa

The number of people interested in environment-friendly products and becoming health-conscious has increased. Similarly, the tendency of consumers to buy organic fruits and vegetables is growing gradually. Nevertheless, the number of people consuming organic fruits and vegetables is low in the case of Nepal due to its high price. As a response, a study was conducted among 159 people who were randomly surveyed consumers of Kathmandu Valley to determine the various factors affecting the willingness of consumers to pay for organic fruits and vegetables. A general linear regression model was applied to determine the consumers’ willingness to purchase organic vegetables and fruits. The analysis shows that 46 percent of consumers are willing to pay up to 24 percent for conventional products. The study showed the factors like Income, and Education as significant factors in determining the willingness of consumers to pay for organic vegetables and fruits. Consumers' health awareness is critical in determining the attitude, intention, and frequency of purchasing organic vegetables and fruits (Magnusson et al., 2003). However, this study shows that in underdeveloped nations like Nepal, health issues and environmental issues are not significant factors in consuming organic products, whereas higher income plays a significant role in purchasing organic products.

Isolation and identification of Azotobacter from saline and non-saline soils of Bangladesh

Md. Rafiq Uddin

Nitrogen is the most important mineral nutrient required for plants growth and
development. Microbial inoculants have the potential to augment and reduce reliance on
expensive nitrogenous fertilizers specially Urea, while maintaining crop productivity. Urea
fertilizer not only expensive but also destroy our environment by nitrate pollution. The
capability of soil microorganisms such as Azotobacter to capture nitrogen from the
atmosphere is crucial for stimulating the development of plants and enhancing agricultural
yields. The investigation was carried out for the isolation and characterization of nitrogen-
fixing Azotobacter from coastal soils of Bangladesh for sustainable croup production as
well as ecofriendly environment. Isolation was done by serial dilution techniques under
class-II biosafety cabinet. Nine Azotobacter isolates were selected based on their nitrogen
fixing abilities (6.95 to 9.89 mg N/g). Among them, isolate NFA3 was the best nitrogen
fixer (9.89 mg N/g). These isolates could grow the neutral to slightly saline soils and
tolerate higher temperature. Isolates were identified based on their morphological and
biochemical attributes. They have plenty of potential for application as biofertilizers to
improve soil fertility, enhance plant growth and yield.

Tillage and leaf colour chart-guided nitrogen management: Key to growth and yield improvement of winter maize in Chitwan, Nepal

Dinesh Timilsina — 2024-12-25

Maize requires efficient nitrogen management to maximize productivity and sustainability. This research aimed to establish a critical Leaf Colour Chart (LCC) values for maize under zero tillage and conventional tillage. This research also focuses on evaluating LCC-based nitrogen management versus recommended practices. The experiment was conducted during the winter season of 2016-17 at the National Maize Research Program, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal. The experiment was performed using a strip plot design with three replications. The main plot factor included two tillage methods (conventional and zero tillage) while the sub-plot factor comprised six nutrient management practices, namely nitrogen omission, recommended dose of nitrogen, nitrogen application at leaf color chart (LCC) values 3 (45 kg N/ha), LCC value 4 (88.33 kg N/ha), LCC value 5 (119.7 kg N/ha), and LCC value 6 (140 kg N/ha). Standard split nitrogen application and LCC-based nitrogen management at LCC 4, 5, and 6 critical values resulted in statistically similar LAI during all dates of observations; however, it was high at 90 days after sowing (DAS). Total dry matter accumulation was significantly higher under LCC-5 at 90 DAS. Grain yield was strongly influenced by nitrogen management, with LCC-5 achieving the highest yield (4814.26 kg ha^-1), followed by LCC-6 (4511 kg ha^-1). Conventional tillage slightly outperformed zero tillage in grain yield. According to the study, LCC threshold 5 is useful for real-time nitrogen application in maize. Therefore, maize farmers are encouraged to embrace LCC-based split nitrogen application rather than following standard nitrogen fixed schedules for sustainable and profitable production.

Responses of potato to different methods of zinc and boron application in midhills of Nepal

Reena Sharma — 2024-12-25

Zinc (Zn) and boron (B) are important micronutrients for potato production and they play a critical role to achieve the potential yield. This research was conducted to evaluate the effects of the foliar and soil application of Zn, B, and agriculture lime in enhancing potato (cv. Khumal Bikash) yield and size of tuber. The experiment was conducted for two consecutive years (2022 and 2023) at the National Potato Research Program, Khumaltar, Nepal. Seven fertilizer treatments, namely T₁: recommended dose of NPK (RDF); T₂: RDF+ Zn+ B; T₃: RDF +B +Ag-lime; T₄: RDF +Zn +Ag-lime; T₅: RDF +Zn +B +Ag-Lime; T₆: RDF +(Z +B) foliar Spray; T₇: RDF + foliar Spray (2% urea +2% K) were arranged in a randomized complete block design. Foliar spray was applied twice, once at 40 DAP and again after 60 DAP. Ag-lime was applied before 15 DAP. Among seven treatments, T₆ (RDF +Zn +B foliar spray) showed a significant effect on yield (31.84 t/ha) and its variables including vigor, uniformity and ground cover of potato followed by T₅ (28.81 t/ha) and T₇ compared to the treatments without Zn and B. Foliar application of mixture of Zn and B (3 kg Zn/ha + 2 kg B/ha) significantly improved germination, vigor, sizes and number of tuber and total yield compared to a separate application of Zn or B. The treatment T6 (RDF + Zn + B foliar) demonstrated the highest micronutrient efficiency (1494 kg ) highlighting the superior effectiveness of foliar application compared to other treatments. These findings suggest that micronutrients Zn and B is important to increase potato tuber yield and maximum benefits could be achieved with the foliar application at 2 splits.

Assessment of phenological and physicochemical characteristics of peach (Prunus persica L.) varieties in Mustang, Nepal

Nitisha Bhattarai — 2024-12-25

This research was conducted at the Temperate Horticulture Development Center (THDC), Mustang, Nepal, to study flowering phenology and evaluate the physicochemical characteristics of five peach varieties (Surprise, Benedict, Peregrine, Local Khallya and Early Red) from February to September 2023. This research was conducted on a randomized complete block design with four replications and five treatments (fruit trees of a particular variety were replicated four times). The flowering phenology of varieties was studied by dividing the developmental stages of a flower into eight different stages: first swelling, calyx green, calyx red, first pink, first bloom, full bloom, petal fall and fruit set. The completion of each phenological stage was marked from a reference date. Physicochemical analysis of fruits was performed following UPOV guidelines of peach. Physical characteristics were encompassed in individual fruit weight, fruit length, fruit volume, fruit size (length and width), stone weight, stone size (length and width) and mesocarp thickness and in chemical characteristics, pH, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA) and TSS/TA ratio were included. The study of flowering phenology revealed that Early Red was found to be the earliest (60.50 DARD) to reach the fruit-set stage. The highest and lowest fruit weights were measured in Benedict (153.85 g) and Early Red (46.5 g), respectively. Finally, chemical analysis revealed that TSS/TA was found to be maximum in Benedict (12.38) and minimum in Early Red (6.03). It can be concluded that Early Red was the earliest maturing variety among the varieties. Also, Benedict was found to be the superior in terms of sweetness and size.

The Effects of Organic Fertilizers on the Macropropagation, Vegetative Growth, and Pest Infestation on Plantain (Musa ssp.)

Ekwa Monono

One of the major constraints to the expansion of plantain cultivation has been the scarcity of healthy planting material. Following macropropagation technology, stimulation of lateral bud development and plantlet production was accomplished through decapitation. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of decortication in Musa sp using organic fertilizers to maximize the potential growth of plantain plantlets in propagators and in the nursery. The experiment was carried out at both the macropropagators' level and in the nursery. The experiment was laid out using the Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with five treatments (Control, T1 – Biozyme, T2 – Radix Tim, T3 – Compo, and T4 – DI Grow) with 10 replicates in three blocks. All plants were administered equal amounts of each treatment. The results at the bud incubation level revealed that bud initiation was not significantly dependent on the treatment. Although not significant, the Biozyme^® treatment had the highest mean number of plantlets (46 plants). The organic fertilizers had significant effects (P < 0.001) on the vegetative growth of nursery plants. The maximum vegetative growth (plant height 7.86 cm, girth 10.6 cm, number of leaves – 4, leaf area 144cm²) was recorded with plants treated with T2 – Radix Tim® (50 ml/7.5 L of water). Snails were the only nursery pests identified, and plants treated with T3 (Compo®) were more susceptible to snails, with a mean of 0.04. Net profit margin results for the different treatments were high for T1 (60) and lowest for T2 (24). In conclusion, organic fertilizers have significant effects in improving the vegetative growth of plantains. Radix Tim® and DI Grow® were the best treatments for the production of healthy, vigorous nursery plants.

Agronomic performance and farmers' preferences of twelve spring rice genotypes under participatory approach at Kailali, Nepal

Nabin Ghimire — 2024-12-25

The purpose of this paper was to assess the agronomic performance and farmers’ preferences of spring rice genotypes in collaboration with farmers. This experiment was conducted from February to June, 2023 at Khaira, Bhajani Municipality in Farmer’s Field School. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), with three replications, testing twelve rice varieties involving 37 small holder farmers. The individual plot size was 10m × 2m with plant spacing maintained at 20cm × 20cm. The data were analysed using the ANOVA technique in R-Studio software (version 4.0), and Fisher’s Protected LSD test was applied for mean separation. Results revealed that yield and yield attributes along with days to maturity were statistically different among genotypes. Maximum grain yield was found in Chaite-5 (10.75 t/ha) followed by IR16L1831 (10.33 t/ha) which was statistically at par with genotype IR10L118 (10.07 t/ha), while the lowest yields were obtained in Chaite-4 (5.77 t/ha) followed by local check variety Chaini-Local (6.77 t/ha). The findings showed that SVIN-191 (139 days) and Hardinath-5 (138 days) had the highest duration to reach maturity. In contrast, the Chaini-Local variety had the shortest time to maturity, taking only 113 days, while Chaite-4 and IR10L152 required 119 and 122 days, respectively. On participatory varietal selection, the farmer preference score was found maximum in genotype IR10L152 (0.055) followed by a popular variety Chaite-5 (0.047) which signifies these genotypes have certain traits of farmer preference. Moreover, the preference for the genotype IR10L152 above the high-yielding variety Chaite-5 indicates that the farmers in Kailali took several desirable traits into consideration for rice variety selection rather than just high yield.

Impact of varying water-logging durations at various stages of growth on mustard seed yield

Syed Tanvin Abir — 2024-12-25

Waterlogging significantly affects agricultural growth and development, making it a severe constraint limiting crop production and quality. This study aims to assess the level of water tolerance of standard mustard cultivars while taking into account the influence of varied water-logging durations on mustard seed output. In this study, a randomized complete block design was used to examine the effects of water-logging on the various phases of various mustard varieties under ambient temperature and sunshine circumstances. Binasarisha-9, Binasarisha-11 and BARI Sarisha-14 were the varieties utilized in the experiment, and water-logging treatments were applied at different times of 0, 24, 48, and 72 hours at 55–60 days after sowing (DAS). Data on plant height, branches plant^-1, and siliquae plant^-1 were taken from 10 randomly selected plants from each plot. The maturity period was counted when 90% of siliquae matured. The seed yield of each plot was recorded after harvest. The result shows that the highest seed yield (1.51t ha^-1) was found for Binasarisha-11 under water-logging conditions for 24 hours at 55-60 DAS and almost the same result on seed yield (1.46t ha^-1) for Binasarisha-9 was found for the same treatment. Moderate yield at 48 hours water logging was observed whereas there was significant yield reduction for 72 hours water logging. BARI Sarisha-14, Binasarisha-9, and Binasarisha-11 yielded 4.5%, 1.38%, and 11.56% less than non-water-logged situations after 72 hours of water-logging at 55-60 DAS. However, it could be concluded that these results provide valuable insights into the effects of waterlogging on seed yield and can aid in selecting suitable mustard genotypes in flood-prone environments to mitigate the negative effects of climate change.

Integrative approaches to understanding mercury toxicity in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) plants: Linking growth, biochemistry and antioxidant mechanisms

Vijay Mani — 2024-12-25

Mercury is a widely studied toxic metal all over the world due to its ability to easily enter into the food chain. Even exposure to small quantities, causes adverse effects on various biochemical and physiological processes. This study aimed to investigate the integrative approaches to understanding mercury toxicity in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) plants by linking growth, biochemistry and antioxidant mechanisms. Experimental common bean plants were divided into 4 groups. Group 1 served as control, received normal nutritional and water support, while Group 2, 3 and 4 were treated with mercury concentrations of 50, 100 and 200 mg respectively. The results revealed that mercury treated common bean plants exhibited a significant decline in several key growth and physiological parameters, including germination percentage, root length, shoot length, fresh weight, dry weight and vigor index. Moreover, mercury treatment leads to reduction in carbohydrate and protein contents, as well as reduced activities of antioxidant enzymes like catalase and superoxide dismutase. These findings underscore the significance of further research to identify strategies for alleviating mercury-induced toxicity and enhancing plant resilience, with the goal of contributing to the development of sustainable agricultural practices that enhance the crop resilience in polluted environments.

Determination of phosphorus and nitrogen optimum fertilization rate for Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production in the Kofele, South-eastern Ethiopia

Nimona Fufa Hunde

Because of unbalanced application of fertilizers, soil fertility depletion is one of the greatest challenges to sustained agricultural productivity, particularly in developing countries. Maintaining soil fertility demands a well-balanced application of inorganic nutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, which are the most critical and influential elements for the production of potato in most Ethiopian soils. Consequently, the experiment was conducted at Kofele sub-site in south-eastern Ethiopia during the 2021 and 2022 cropping seasons to evaluate different rates of N and P fertilizers on tuber yield performance and economic profitability of potato production. The treatments used consisted of four levels of nitrogen (0, 46, 92, and 138 kg ha^-1) and phosphorus (0, 46, 69, and 92 kg ha^-1) combined with factorial arrangements and laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results revealed that almost all parameters were significantly affected by the main effect of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer rates, but their interaction did not show significant effect. As a result, in both seasons, the highest marketable tuber and total tuber yield were obtained at the combined application of 138 kg N with 92 kg P₂O₅ha^-1. However, the partial budget analysis indicated that the combined application of 92 kg N and 69 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 gave the highest net benefit with an acceptable marginal rate of return (MRR) of 492.93%, followed by 92 kg N and 92 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1, which might be taken as a profitable rate for the tested area. The economic recommendations may be subjected to changes based on the cost of fertilizers and price of the product (potato). Therefore, on the basis of economic performance, it can be concluded that the application of combined 92 kg N ha⁻¹ with 69 kg P₂O₅ ha⁻¹ fertilizer rates is more economical and recommended for potato production in the Kofele area.

Effects of different traditional ripening methods on quality and shelf life of bananas in Chitwan, Nepal

Binisha Paudel — 2024-12-25

This study evaluates the effects of traditional ripening methods on the shelf life and quality of bananas, focusing on traits like weight loss, pulp-to-peel ratio, firmness, TSS, TA, pH, and TSS/TA ratio over 10 days. The experiment is conducted in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five treatments and four replications (control, gunny bag, rice straw, tomato, and ethephon 500 ppm). All data were collected at the horticulture lab, AFU where ripening was maintained at 23-27°C with 50-70% relative humidity. ripening was maintained at 23-27°C and 50-70% relative humidity. Significant variations in physiological weight loss (PWL %) were observed, with the highest loss in tomato (9.91%) and ethephon (11.5%), indicating faster ripening, while gunny bag (5.42%) and control (6.43%) showed the lowest. The pulp-to-peel ratio was highest for tomato (2.52) and ethephon (2.62) by Day 10. Firmness decreased across all treatments, with the lowest values in ethephon (0.82) and tomato (0.66). TSS was highest in ethephon (22.95%) and tomato (22.95%). TA was lowest in straw-wrapped bananas (0.25). TSS/TA ratios were highest for ethephon and tomato (49.05). PH decreased in most treatments, with ethephon-treated bananas having the highest pH (4.95) by Day 10. Shelf life varied, with control, gunny bag, and straw lasting over 12 days, while ethephon had the shortest shelf life of 8 days. Despite a shorter shelf life, ethephon and tomato treatments offered better sensory qualities, including softness, sweetness, and visual appeal.

Performance of late sown wheat genotypes under drought stress at Khajura, Banke, Nepal

Prabhat K.C. — 2024-12-25

This study aimed to identify wheat genotypes tolerant to drought and terminal heat stress under late-sown conditions using stress tolerance indices. A field experiment was conducted with 18 genotypes, including checks, at the Directorate of Agricultural Research, Lumbini Province, Khajura, Banke. The trials were arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications under two conditions: normal irrigated and simulated drought (via rainout shelter). Grain yield was recorded, and stress susceptibility and tolerance indices were estimated. The research showed that the average grain yield of all tested genotypes decreased by 58.8% under stress conditions compared to normal irrigated condition . There was a highly significant difference (p<0.01) in grain yield across genotypes when grown under both irrigated and stress conditions. The genotype NL 1488 produced the highest grain yield of 3725 kg/ha, followed by Banganga (3693.67 kg/ha), NL 1447 (3550.33 kg/ha), NL 1423 (3454.67 kg/ha), NL 1444 (3426 kg/ha), and NL 1445 (3224.67 kg/ha) under normal irrigated conditions. Similarly, the genotype NL 1447 produced the highest grain yield of 1547.33 kg/ha, followed by NL 1415 (1541.67 kg/ha), NL 1444 (1442.33 kg/ha), NL 1345 (1349.33 kg/ha), NL 1446 (1338.33 kg/ha), and NL 1451 (1328.33 kg/ha) under drought conditions. The highest values of MP, GMP, and STI were obtained in genotype NL 1447, followed by NL 1444, NL 1415, NL 1451, and NL 1446. Thus, these genotypes exhibit high yield potential under both irrigated and drought conditions, making them suitable candidates for breeding programs aimed at improving drought resilience in wheat.

On Farm Participatory Evaluation and Demonstration of Improved Tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.) Varieties under Irrigation condition in South-Eastern Ethiopia

Nimona Fufa Hunde

In Ethiopia, tomatoes are one of the most economically important vegetable crops. However, a number of factors, including a lack of improved and adapted tomato varieties, limit their productivity and production. A field study was conducted during the 2020 -2021 cropping season at Arsi areas, Tiyo, and Zuway Dugda districts and aimed to evaluate the performance of released tomato varieties, on-farm demonstrations, and varietal selection based on farmers’ preferences. Six released tomato varieties, Chali, Melkashola, Melkasalsa, Eshete, ARP-D2, and Fetan were used. Data were collected on growth, yield and yield related traits from the mother trials and farmers perception on the demo varietal trials. The analysis of variance revealed that the tested varieties had significant differences (P≤0.05) in yield and yield-related traits. As a result, Gelilema variety had significant marketable yield (55.91 t ha^-1) and total yield (65.24 t ha^-1), followed by Melkashola variety with marketable yield (47.42 t ha^-1) and total yield (59.12 t ha^-1). Total fruit yield correlated positively and significantly with marketable yield (0.89), average fruit weight (0.87), number of fruit per cluster (0.65), number of cluster per plant (0.97), and was negatively associated with plant height (-0.05). Farmers' preferred traits, such as higher fruit yield, better disease tolerance, fruit size, shape, transportability, and higher market demand, were used to rank the most preferred varieties at both distinct areas. At Golja kebele, Gelilema was the most preferred and best-performing variety, followed by Melkashola. At Zuway Dugda, Melkashola and Melkasalsa were selected as the first and second choices, respectively. As a result, the area of study and others with comparable agro-ecologies should be suitable areas for scaling up these selected varieties.

Introduction, Establishment and Expansion Factors of Emerging and Re- Emerging Fungal Plant Diseases of National and International Significance and Their Management

Dr. Muluken Getahun

Abstract

Diseases are qualified as emergent when they have recently become a cause for concern due to an increase in virulence, infection of a novel host and/or occurrence in a new area. Pathogenic fungi, in particular, have caused emerging plant diseases. Re- emerging plant diseases are those diseases that have been previously controlled but once more a major problem. Alien fungal infections can be introduced through the trade of vegetables, germplasms, plant-propagating material, or complete living plant parts. International seed trafficking is a particularly important vector for pathogen introduction and dissemination. Human activity, host susceptibility, wind and extreme weather condition and pathogen adaptation are intensifying fungal disease dispersal by modifying natural environments and thus creating new opportunities for evolution. Fungal infections will cause increasing attrition of biodiversity, with wider implications for human and ecosystem health, unless steps are taken to tighten biosecurity worldwide. There are several ways that fungal pathogens pollution can occur, but, in each case anthropogenic change results in a pathogen crossing an evolutionary boundary, such as geographical and or ecological separation. The production of crops is impacted by both established and newly emerged diseases. An epidemic induced by fungal plant emerging infectious disease infecting new hosts with little resistance or tolerance to emerging pathogens can be especially damaging. Emerging diseases represent a growing worldwide problem accompanying global environmental changes, and there is tremendous interest in identifying the factors controlling the appearance and spread of these diseases. In addition to Integrated disease management approach better global monitoring and control, attention must also be turned to increasing our understanding of the interactions between hosts, pathogens and the environment, across regional and global scales. Integrated techniques that include theoretical and applied epidemiology, climate predictions, surveillance, and monitoring.

Optimum sugar syrup feeding intervals for Apis cerana Fab. during the winter dearth period in the sub-tropical area of Nepal

Dipak Khanal — 2024-12-25

The study aimed to identify the optimal sugar syrup feeding interval for honeybee colonies during the winter dearth period in subtropical region of Nepal to ensure colony survival and maintenance. The focus was on evaluating sealed brood area, sealed honey area, egg-laying activity, and pollen collection. The experiment was conducted in an apiary located in Lamjung district of Nepal. Sugar syrup (1 water: 1 sugar) was fed to honeybee colonies at intervals of 7, 10, 15, and 20-days, along with a control group. Each treatment was replicated across four replications with five beehives in each replication, and data were collected weekly. Parameters such as the sealed brood area, honey storage, egg-laying rate, and pollen cells were measured by counting eggs, pollen cells, and assessing areas covered by sealed brood and honey. Colonies fed sugar syrup at 15-days intervals exhibited the best performance across all measured parameters, including the largest sealed brood area, highest honey reserves, maximum eggs laid by the queen bee, and the most pollen cells. These results indicate that feeding at 15-days intervals supports optimal colony health and activity during low-temperature winter conditions. Feeding sugar syrup at 15-days intervals is the most effective practice for maintaining colony health, ensuring optimal honey reserves, brood production, and pollen collection during the winter dearth period in subtropical areas of Nepal. This feeding strategy is recommended for improving colony survival, maintenance, and overall performance during challenging winter conditions in subtropical region of Nepal.

Production and Marketing of RUDRASHA

The study was conducted to analyze the production and marketing of Rudraksha in

Shadanand Municipality of Bhojpur district of Nepal during the year 2023. A survey was

conducted to collect information from Rudraksha growers by taking purposively a

representative sample size of 140 firms. The required information was obtained through a

pretested questionnaire and group discussions. The average land under Rudraksha plantation

in study area was found 6.18. The cost of production was found NRs.3931.47 and benefit cost

ratio was found 3.381 which showed that the Rudraksha cultivation was profitable enterprise.

The variables cost of Rudraksha plantation was important factors contributing to the total

return. Collector, trader/intermediate, processor, retailers and consumers were mainly

involved in marketing of Rudraksha. Contract system of selling of Rudraksha was the most

common in the study areas. Producers were mainly sold their products from farm to trader

and on farm to the retailers or consumers. Majority of producers sold it in raw form. The

farmer of this area was practiced mixed cropping off Rudraksha with cardamom, ginger, tea

etc. The result showed that the farmer was facing the problems of inadequate market

information, poor technical knowledge, disease and pest, limited inputs and middleman in

production and marketing of Rudraksha. Although the cultivation of Rudraksha in the

Bhojpur district seems to be a successful endeavour, it is imperative to overcome the stated

problems in order to continue and enhance the sector.

Effect of micronutrients on the growth and yield parameter of spring maize in Gauradaha, Nepal

Dipak Aryal — 2024-12-25

Micronutrients, required in trace amounts, are crucial for crop growth and metabolic activities. Maize is susceptible to micronutrient deficiencies and exhibits hidden hunger symptoms when lacking essential nutrients. This study, conducted at Gauradaha Agriculture Campus, Jhapa, from January to June 2023, aimed to assess the impact of zinc (Zn), boron (B), and sulfur (S) on maize growth and yield. A single-factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used with seven treatments and three replications. Results revealed that the combined application of micronutrients with the recommended dose of NPK significantly enhanced maize growth and yield parameters. The T6 treatment (Zn 10 kg/ha + B 6 kg/ha + S 7 kg/ha with recommended NPK) produced the highest values for key growth indicators: leaf area, ear length (19.56 cm), ear diameter (6.24 cm), kernel rows per ear (15.72), grains per row (44.25), ear weight (17.65 tons/ha), biological yield (34.80 tons/ha), grain yield (12.68 tons/ha), and stover yield (3.39 tons/ha). Additionally, T4 (S 40 kg/ha with NPK) resulted in the highest test weight (438.33 g). Micronutrient application did not significantly affect plant height or the number of leaves. The study concludes that applying 10 kg/ha of Zn, 6 kg/ha of B, and 7 kg/ha of S with NPK significantly improves maize yield, demonstrating suitability for the local soil conditions and offering a practical approach to mitigate hidden hunger in maize.

Effect of different germination media on seed germination and seedling growth of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in Bhojpur, Nepal

Dhurba Banjade — 2024-12-25

The research was conducted following a Complete Randomized Design (CRD) under plastic tunnel with three replications to investigate the effects of different germination media on seed germination and seedling growth of tomato in Bhojpur Nepal. Nine different compositions of growing media are soil, cocopeat, vermicompost, soil + FYM (1:1), soil + cocopeat (1:1), soil + vermicompost (1:1), cocopeat + vermicompost (1:1), soil + cocopeat + vermicompost (1:1:1) and soil+ cocopeat + vermicompost + FYM (1:1:1:1). Seeds of tomato variety (Srijana) was sown in Plastic tray. Germination parameters such as germination percentage, germination speed, germination energy, and vigor index were recorded for seven consecutive days. Growth parameters including root length, shoot length, number of leaves, stem diameter, fresh seedling weight and dry seedling weight were measured at 20, 25 and 30 days after sowing. There were significant differences in the germination parameters and growth parameters. The maximum germination percentage (100%), maximum seedling vigor index (2329), root length (10.967cm), number of leaves (20.87cm) was recorded in soil + cocopeat + vermicompost + FYM (1:1:1:1) as a growing media. However maximum shoot length (12.847cm), maximum stem diameter (0.310cm) and maximum fresh weight (1.540g) was recorded in soil + cocopeat + vermicompost (1:1:1) as a growing media. Hence, optimum growth of tomato seedlings was observed when soil, cocopeat, vermicompost and FYM were used in equal proportions.

Evaluation of foliar spray of zinc and boron on growth, flowering and yield of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum cv. Srijana) under polytunnel in Nepal

Prabina Bhujel — 2024-12-25

This research was conducted in Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu from February to June 2023 to study the effects of different concentrations on growth, flowering and yield of tomato in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with five treatments: control (T₀), two levels of chelated zinc (30 ppm - T₁ and 60 ppm - T₂), and two levels of borax (30 ppm - T₃ and 60 ppm - T₄), applied 15 and 35 days after transplantation (DAT). The results showed that chelated zinc at 30 ppm significantly enhanced plant height (86 cm), leaf number (52.47), branch number (8.21), fruit clusters (19.32), fruit number (22.73), fruit diameter (5.58 cm), fruit weight (59.71 g), and yield (56.56 t/ha). Borax at 30 ppm promoted early flowering (23.70 days). Higher concentrations of both micronutrients resulted in reduced growth and yield. The findings suggest that foliar application of 30 ppm chelated zinc and borax can optimize growth and yield of tomato. The study highlights the potential of these easily accessible micronutrient sources to significantly enhance tomato productivity under polytunnel cultivation.

Farmers’ adaptation strategies towards soil salinity effects in sunflower cultivation: A gender-based analysis of some selected south-central coastal areas in Bangladesh

Aparajita Badhan — 2024-12-25

Rising salinity levels in the coastal regions of Bangladesh, driven by climate change, significantly affect agricultural productivity. Adaptation strategies to mitigate the effects of salinity are crucial for increasing crop production. This paper examines the adaptation strategies employed by male and female sunflower farmers in response to salinity intrusion in the south-central coastal zones of Bangladesh. We collected data through a household survey of 50 men and 50 women, supplemented by interviews and focus group discussions with farmers. The sample size was determined using a probabilistic sampling method. The questionnaire included open-ended and closed-ended questions and pretested with farmers before conducting final interview. Our results indicated that significant variables influencing adaptation strategies among male sunflower farmers included age, communication exposure, and training experience (p < 0.05). For female sunflower farmers, significant factors were age, communication exposure, training experience, and cultivated sunflower area (p < 0.01). Both regression models exhibited a satisfactory fit. Additionally, the primary adaptation strategies adopted by both male and female farmers included the application of fertilizers and pesticides. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers in formulating future farm-level gender based adaptation strategies for cultivating sunflower.

Climate-smart agriculture: A review of sustainability, resilience, and food security

Sunil Regmi — 2024-12-25

This paper investigates Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA), a comprehensive strategy aimed at improving agricultural efficiency and sustainability while addressing the challenges of climate change. It examines the economic advantages of CSA for adopters compared to traditional farming methods and assesses CSA's role in mitigating climate change, adapting to its impacts, and enhancing food security. The study reviews essential CSA practices, including agroforestry, conservation agriculture, water-efficient irrigation technologies, crop diversification, improved livestock management, and soil carbon sequestration, as well as the barriers to adoption, such as limited funding, arable land, land tenure issues, and insufficient expertise. Agroforestry and crop rotation have shown encouraging results, with agroforestry serving as a cost-effective solution for food production and environmental preservation. Dairy companies boosted milk consumption from 529,000 to 3 million liters, while farmer profits grew from $0.2 to $0.3 per liter. Rice yields have increased, from 3-4 tons to 7.5 tons per hectare. In cotton farming, CSA adopters cut input costs compared to traditional methods, resulting in long-term economic gains. Crop rotation increased maize productivity by 5–10%, while new irrigation techniques improved water efficiency by 5–35%. However, regions without CSA methods experienced significant livestock losses, highlighting the importance of widespread adoption to ensure resilience. Despite CSA’s advantages, its widespread adoption is hindered by financial and knowledge barriers. Future research should focus on optimizing multiple cropping systems, crop diversification, and no-till agriculture. CSA, particularly when integrated with technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), offers a promising path toward more adaptive and resilient agricultural practices. Broader adoption will require investments in research and resources to effectively scale CSA innovations.

A review on the impact of commonly used pesticides on the biology of earthworms

Amar Kumar — 2024-12-25

Earthworms are considered important bio-indicators of chemical contamination in the soil ecosystem. Being an important biotic factor of soil ecosystem, earthworms play a vital role in the functioning of soil ecosystems and maintenance of soil fertility. The present review encompasses the diverse effects of chemical contaminants like pesticides on earthworm biology, considering both direct toxicity and indirect impacts on ecosystem functions. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, we assess the varying impacts of different classes of pesticides on earthworms. Several studies included in this review shed light on how pesticide exposure affects earthworm behaviour, reproduction, regenerative capacity, histology, gut microbial diversity, and nutrient transition, among other adverse effects, which consequently affect the soil ecosystem dynamics. Furthermore, we discuss the implications of these findings for agricultural practices, soil health, and biodiversity conservation. This study discusses the impact of pesticides on different facets of earthworm biology and emphasizes the necessity of sustainable pest management strategies to maintain the productivity and adaptability of ecosystems by enhancing our understanding of the complex interactions that occur between soil organisms, like earthworms, and foreign chemicals, or xenobiotics, like pesticides.

Hormonal efficiency and net return of BARI Tomato-4 enhanced under polytunnels during rainy summer season

Ruby Akter — 2024-12-25

An experiment was conducted at the department of Horticulture, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, Bangladesh to evaluate the benefit cost ratio of summer tomato variety BARI tomato 4. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with 18 treatments and three replications by maintaining a spacing of 60 cm x 40 cm. It comprised of two cultivation method as main plot viz. Open cultivation (P₀) and Cultivation under poly tunnel (P₁) and nine levels of growth regulators as sub-plot viz. T_{0 (}Control), T₁ (GA₃@30 ppm), T₂ (GA₃@60 ppm), T₃ (NAA @30 ppm), T₄ (NAA @60 ppm), T₅ (MH @30 ppm), T₆ (MH @60 ppm), T₇(Tomatotone @30 ppm) and T₈ (Tomatotone @60 ppm). Application of growth regulators was influenced in all studied parameters over control. Majority of the parameters responded better with the increased concentration of growth regulators. Tomatotone @ 60 ppm gave the highest yield per hectare (5.38 and 20.82 t) under open and poly tunnel condition, respectively. In open and poly tunnel condition, tomatotone @ 60 ppm showed the highest profitability and benefit cost ratio 1.16: 3.19, respectively. Despite of poly tunnel was being costly to establish (41% of total input cost), but it gave 3-4 times higher economic return. Higher values in respect of economy were obtained from the plants cultivated under poly tunnel with tomatotone @60 ppm. Therefore, tomatotone @ 60 ppm can be used as potential treatment for summer tomato cultivation under open and poly tunnel conditions to get highest profitability.

Evaluation of hybrid rice varieties for growth and yield traits under irrigated transplanted conditions in Lumbini Province, Nepal

Mahesh Paudyal — 2024-12-25

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of early- to medium-maturing hybrid rice varieties for growth and yield traits under irrigated transplanted conditions in Lumbini Province, Nepal, and identify varieties with high yield potential and favorable agronomic traits. A field experiment was conducted using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications during the summer seasons of 2022 and 2023. Twenty-five hybrid rice varieties were tested, with Arize 6444 as the standard check. Key agronomic traits, including grain yield, tillers per plant, plant height, and thousand-grain weight, were measured and analyzed statistically. The hybrid variety LG94.2 recorded the highest average grain yield (6603 kg ha^-¹), followed by SH 4613 (6338 kg ha^-¹) and F1 9446 (6062.7 kg ha^-¹). Thousand-grain weight (r = 0.72) and tillers per plant (r = 0.65) were positively correlated with grain yield. The findings suggest that LG94.2, SH 4613, and F1 9446 are the top-performing varieties. LG94.2 showed the best performance, with high grain yield and favorable traits, making it a strong candidate for improving rice productivity in Nepal. The study confirms that hybrid rice varieties such as LG94.2 and SH 4613 have the potential to significantly increase rice yields in Nepal's subtropical regions, offering a sustainable solution to meet the country’s rising food demand.

Assessment of soil suitability for rice cultivation potential in the coastal region of Bangladesh: A GIS-based approach for Sarankhola Upazila, Bangladesh

Md. Anisul Kabir — 2024-12-25

Rice is the staple food in Bangladesh. However, soil degradation in coastal land hinders rice production there. This study aims to assess the suitable area for rice production in Sarankhola, a coastal region in Bangladesh. This study uses SRDI’s physiochemical and nutrient data as a secondary source. We interpolated these data using Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) methods and weighed the data using the Suitability Modeler in ArcGIS Pro v3. The findings show that some parameters, like OM, N, P, Cu, and Mn, are close to or within their optimal ranges suggested by SRDI, for rice production in Bangladesh. On the other hand, EC, S, Ca, Mg, and Fe are much higher than their optimal values. The correlation analysis shows strong positive correlations between organic matter and nitrogen (0.97); and Ca and Mg (0.64). Moreover, there is a moderate positive correlation of Soil EC with S (0.43), and K (0.34), respectively. Conversely, a negative correlation was found between soil pH with N (-0.28) and Organic Matter (-0.30), respectively. The spatial distribution of soil physiochemical and nutrients reveals varying suitability for agriculture, with some regions showing optimal conditions while others face significant nutrient deficiencies. The land suitability analysis for rice production reveals that 40–50% of the area, mainly in the Dhansagar and parts of Khontakata unions, is "suitable" for rice cultivation. Meanwhile, 20–30% of Rayenda, Southkhali, and parts of Khontakata are "moderately suitable," necessitating additional inputs. The remaining 30-40%, particularly in Rayenda and Southkhali, are "marginally suitable." The results suggest that Dhansagar and Khontakata unions in Sarankhola are potential areas for rice production naturally, without using hybrid seeds.

Effects of various methods of milking, container types, and chilling durations on bacterial load of milk

Sagar Paudel — 2024-12-25

This study was carried out to evaluate the quality of raw milk measured by Standard Plate Count (SPC). Individual raw milk for the Colony Forming Units (CFU) study was carried out in the National Cattle Research Program Rampur Chitwan, Nepal. Milk from Jersey and Holstein cows with two types of milking (hand and machine milking) in collecting three types of containers (Plastic, aluminum, and steel). Milk had different chilling durations (0, 4, 8, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours). Altogether, 252 milk samples for SPC were examined at farm levels. Results showed significant variability in SPC throughout the study period. The lowest CFU was observed in Holstein cows (80.49±4.83 × 10⁴), while the highest was found in the Jersey breed (122.88±4.69 × 10⁴). Similarly, the lowest CFU count was recorded in milk from machine milking (92.42±4.69 × 10⁴), whereas the highest CFU count was observed in milk from hand milking (110.95±4.83 × 10⁴). For three milk collecting and transporting containers, the CFU count was lowest in the steel container (90.09±5.82×10⁴) compared to the aluminum container (102.42±5.82×10⁴) and plastic container (112.55±5.82×10⁴). The results of mean CFU for the chilling duration effects at farm 0, 4, 8,12,24,48 and 72 hours were (114.33±8.11×10⁴, 108.21±10.28×10⁴, 107.71±10.28×10⁴, 106.75±10.28 ×10⁴, 104.07±6.36 ×10⁴, 94.79±8.11×10⁴, and 75.94±8.11×10⁴). CFU count in hand and machine milking milk differed significantly (p<0.01) from each record of the same date at the farm level. The CFU in milk from different containers was significant (p<0.05) for the overall experimental period. Steel containers showed a low CFU count compared to Aluminum and plastic containers. The highest number of CFU (114.33×10⁴) was observed in the 0-hour chilling, which was significantly (p <0.05) different from the rest of the chilling duration. The results obtained from the study indicated that the current situation is critical and needs real improvement from farm to chilling centers. The findings could guide dairy producers in adopting effective strategies to enhance milk quality, minimize bacterial contamination, and ensure safer dairy products for consumers by using these results.

Urban heat island relation with land use land cover change in Hetauda sub-metropolitan city of Nepal

Bikram Singh — 2024-12-25

Urban areas are expanding globally at the expense of natural productive land which affects the quality of life of urban residents. Hetauda sub-metropolitan city of Nepal has been undergoing rapid urban growth for the last few decades causing local climatic effects such as land surface temperature (LST) variation. Thus, exploring spatio-temporal changes in land use, land cover (LULC), and urban heat island (UHI) analysis could be an effective means of exposing local environmental issues caused by anthropogenic activities. Development in thermal Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) has enabled the monitoring of spatial LST, UHI, and its correlation to LULC. We used Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS satellite data and a supervised classification algorithm for land use land classification for the years 1995, 2008, and 2018 in Arc map software. The spatial pattern of LST was obtained through mathematical calculation of the thermal band of Landsat images. Correlation analysis was applied to explore the relationship between LST, LULC types, and LUCL indices. The LST was higher for urban/built-up and cultivated land use types. There was approximately 4°C mean LST variation for all three years of study. The regression analysis showed a positive correlation of urban/built-up with the Normal Difference Built-Up Index (NDBI) however a negative correlation with the Normal Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) which implies that green structure weakens the UHI effects while urban/built-up areas strengthen the UHI. Overall, the study can be useful for urban planners in sustainable urban planning and management as well as to raise public awareness of climate change and the warming effect.

A review on tillage system and no-till agriculture and its impact on soil health

Bronika Thapa — 2024-09-25

Soil tillage is a fundamental agriculture practice aimed at preparing the soil for planting, managing crop residues, controlling weeds, preparing the ground for the next crop, integrating leftover crops and nutrients into the soil, and enhancing soil structure. However, tillage practice significantly influences activities like soil moisture, temperature, aeration, and mixing the crop residues within the soil. This article explores the impacts of traditional tillage methods and alternative approaches to reduce production costs, environmental consequences, and safeguard soil for sustainable crop production through the secondary source of results as published research papers, documents, government official and institution reports. Traditional tillage method involves the mechanical disruption of soil, which affects critical factors such as moisture retention, temperature regulation, and aeration. While use of such heavy machines can improve short-term productivity, its long-term impacts include soil compaction, erosion, and loss of organic matter, leading to environmental degradation and declining soil health. In contrast, No-till and reduced tillage practices offers a promising solution to contemporary challenges such as global climate change, water conservation, rapid soil degradation, and desertification. Under this system, wide range of crops can be grown effectively in low production cost by reducing fuel and labor requirements. No-tillage and minimal tillage is being adopted across a wide range of farm sizes, from small plots of land to vast expanses, in various countries around the world with promising sustainability.

Effects of feeding regime on growth, production, and economics of Oreochromine cichlids (Oreochromis mossambicus) in earthen ponds of Bangladesh

Mohammad Shadiqur Rahman — 2024-09-25

The experiment was carried out to evaluate the effects of feeding frequency on the growth, production, and economic aspects of Oreochromine cichlids (Oreochromis mossambicus) in nine earthen ponds for 120 days. Three different feeding regimes (T₁, T₂, and T₃) with three replications each were used. The stocking density was uniform across all treatments at 25,000 fish per hectare. The fish were fed a commercially available pelleted feed with the same feeding rate in all treatments, but the feeding frequency varied. The feeding rate was 10%, 8%, 7%, 6 %, 5%, and 4% which was consecutively adjusted after each fortnightly sampling and 3% for the last 4 weeks of the study period. Feeding frequencies were once a day for T₁, twice a day for T₂, and three times a day for T₃. The average weight gain of Oreochromine cichlids in T₃ (295±5 gm) was significantly higher (P<0.05) than those of T₂ (240.67±6.66 gm) and T₁ (217.17±7.64 gm). The survival rates were 95.20%, 96.99%, and 97.33% for T₁, T₂, and T₃, respectively. The net production of fish in T₃ (2882.00±62.00 kg/ha) was significantly higher (P<0.05) than in T₂ (2413.00± kg/ha) and T₁ (2223±30.55). Furthermore, the highest net return (USD 1163/ha with a cost-benefit ratio of 1.42) was achieved from T₃, followed by T₂ (USD 527/ha with a cost-benefit ratio of 1.19) and T₁ (USD 270/ha with a cost-benefit ratio of 1.09). The results demonstrated that increasing the feeding frequency has positive effects on the growth and production of Oreochromine cichlids.

Evaluating the characteristics, trends and challenges of marine fisheries in Iraq

Abdul-Razak M. Mohamed — 2024-09-25

The characteristics, trends and challenges of the marine fisheries of Basrah province, Iraq were studied in this study. Information on fish landings was gathered from the main landing site of the marine fisheries at Al-Fao port from January 2023 to December 2023. The total landing of marine fisheries was 29,446 tons for 28 fish species and two shrimp species. Threadfin bream constituted 10.87% of the landing, followed by Mullets (9.72%) and Emperor (9.39%). Shrimp formed about 13.87% of the total catches. The landings of Threadfin bream and Emperor, as well as shrimp, significantly increased in 2023, while the contribution of historically more important species such as the landing of river shad has decreased to the lowest level. Therefore, from a fisheries management perspective, it is crucial to manage the stock of various species, especially River shad by ensuring the right amount of water is obtained from the upper Tigris and Euphrates Rivers to marine waters through the Shatt Al-Arab River, implementing national fishing regulations to deter illegal fishing methods and safeguard the fish during their migration, reproduction, and in their nursery habitats in inland waters.

Purification of biodiesel-derived crude glycerol and its application in plasticizing cassava starch bioplastics

Ahimbisibwe Michael — 2024-09-25

This study focused on purifying crude glycerol, a by-product of biodiesel production, using acid-precipitation, methanol extraction, and adsorption with acid-activated charcoal. Among the acids tested—sulfuric, phosphoric, and hydrochloric—phosphoric acid proved most effective, producing the clearest glycerol with minimal salt deposition. The purified glycerol was then used to produce bioplastics, which were tested for mechanical properties. The results indicated that Phosphoric acid yielded the clearest glycerol with minimal salt deposition. The resultant salt, potassium phosphate (K₂PO₄), has potential as a fertilizer. The purified glycerol showed increased density and viscosity, indicating higher purity compared to crude glycerol. The density of the purified glycerol was closer to that of analytical-grade glycerol. Bioplastic 1 (using analytical-grade glycerol) exhibited the highest tensile strength, withstanding up to 4.3N and extending about 104mm before breaking. Bioplastic 2 (using glycerol purified with hydrochloric acid) withstood up to 4.1N, while Bioplastic 3 (using glycerol purified with acetic acid) endured the least stress, withstanding up to 3.8N and extending up to 87mm before breaking. The study demonstrates that phosphoric acid is an effective agent for purifying crude glycerol, significantly enhancing its quality. The purified glycerol, in turn, improves the mechanical properties of bioplastics, making them more durable and suitable for a range of applications. This process not only adds value to the biodiesel production by-product but also contributes to the development of stronger, more versatile bioplastics.

Effect of nitrogen levels on growth and yield of popcorn maize (Zea mays var. everta) in Mid Hills, Parbat District, Nepal

Bamdev Regmi — 2024-09-25

A field experiment was conducted from March to July 2020 to investigate the impact of varying nitrogen levels on the growth and yield of popcorn maize in Parbat. The experiment was laid out in single factorial Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) comprising nine levels of nitrogen: 0, 50, 75, 100, 120, 125, 150, 175 and 200 kg ha^-1 as treatment with three replications. "Lumle Yellow" variety was cultivated in an acidic (pH 4.9) clay loam soil with moderate levels of total nitrogen (0.19%), high levels of available phosphorus (126.6 kg ha^-1), potassium (427.68 kg ha^-1), and moderate organic matter content (4.36%). The findings showed that an increased N-level significantly increased plant height and the leaf area index, reaching a maximum at 175 kg N ha^-1. While number of cob plant^-1 and kernel row cob^-1 were non-significant, yield attributing parameters such as cob length, cob diameter, number of kernel rows^-1, thousand grain weight, and grain yield were significant and determined to be maximum at 150 kg N ha^-1. With subsequent increases in N to 175 and 200 kg N ha^-1, the yield-attributing features did not show an increase. The highest grain yield (4.97 Mt ha^-1) produced from 150 kg N ha^-1was 98 percent higher than the yield obtained from control (2.5 Mt ha^-1) and 28 percent higher as compared to lowest level of N (50 kg ha^-1). However, reduction in grain yield was found with increase in N levels above 150 kg ha^-1.

Association of Traits Analysis for Yield and Yield Related Traits of Durum Wheat (Triticum Turgidum L. var. Durum) Advanced Lines at Injibara, Northwestern Ethiopia

Besides the existence of genetic variation, the interaction between traits is crucial for the success of plant breeding. Therefore, understanding how yield-related traits influence overall yield is essential. This study aimed to investigate the correlations between grain yield and its contributing traits, as well as to assess the direct and indirect effects of these traits on grain yield in durum wheat. A total of 45 durum wheat genotypes were evaluated using a 5x9 alpha lattice experimental design with two replications at the Injibara substation of the Pawe Agricultural Research Center during the 202/2021 main cropping season. Fourteen quantitative traits, including the grain yield of durum wheat, were analyzed. Grain yield displayed significant positive genotypic and phenotypic correlations with the number of spikelet’s per spike (.83**, .80**), kernels per spike (.84**, .80**), thousand kernel weight (.47**, .34**), spike length (.44**, .43**), days to maturity (.73**, .67**), biomass yield (.43**, .31**), and harvest index (.82**, .81**). The genotypic correlations were generally more pronounced than the phenotypic correlations for nearly all studied traits. Path analysis of genotypic correlation revealed positive direct effects of kernels per spike (0.314), grain filling period (0.16), thousand kernel weight (0.058), and harvest index (0.043) on the grain yield of durum wheat. Therefore, to enhance durum wheat yield in breeding programs, selection and hybridization should focus on traits that exhibit significant positive correlation coefficients and direct effects on grain yield. Overall, it can be concluded that there is a favorable opportunity for achieving a high response to selection for improving yield and its components in durum wheat.

Screening of blackgram (Vigna mungo) genotypes for resistance to cercospora leaf spot and yield performance in Nepal

Siddhanta Shrestha — 2024-12-25

This study screened 12 black gram (Vigna mungo L.) genotypes for resistance to Cercospora leaf spot (CLS) caused by Cercospora canescens. Conducted at the research plot of the Mid-West Academy and Research Institute, Tulsipur, Dang, the experiment utilized a randomized complete block design with three replications from September 2022 to January 2023. Disease severity was evaluated at 40, 47, and 54 days after sowing (DAS), with scoring based on the percentage of infected leaf area at 7-day intervals. Key disease metrics—incidence, severity, mean area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC), and yield—were calculated. Results indicated no significant difference in CLS incidence among genotypes. However, significant differences in disease severity were noted at 40, 47, and 54 DAS, with AUDPC values differing across genotypes. Based on mean AUDPC values, 10 genotypes were categorized as moderately resistant, while BLG 0066-1-1 and BLG 0035-1 were moderately susceptible. BLG 0035-1 had the highest AUDPC (324.1), and BLG 0069-1 had the lowest (175). Yield varied significantly, with the highest yield (799 kg/ha) recorded for BLG 0068-2 and the lowest (495 kg/ha) for BLG 0066-1. These findings support breeding efforts targeting CLS resistance and enhanced yield in black gram.

Assessment of biochar quality and agronomic efficiency produced from rice-husk and saw-dust at different temperature regimes

Purnika Aryal — 2024-12-25

Declining soil fertility and the limited use of sustainable soil organic amendments has resulted in reduced crop productivity in Nepal. This study assessed biochar produced from rice husk and sawdust at three different pyrolysis temperatures (200°C, 400°C, and 600°C), characterized their properties and applied them as soil amendments to test their agronomic effect on kidney bean production. The highest biochar yields were achieved at lower pyrolysis temperatures (200°C) for both rice husk (40%) and sawdust (38.4%). Ash content was significantly higher in rice husk (33.6%) compared to sawdust biochar (5.8%) across all temperatures. Sawdust biochar had higher volatile matter (91%) than in rice husk biochar (61.5%). The fixed carbon content was greater at 200°C and 400°C for both rice husk and sawdust biochar. FT-IR result showed significant loss of aromatic groups with increasing temperature. Biochar from all three temperatures was then used in a pot experiment to grow kidney beans and assess their agronomic effects. Seven treatments were used: control (CK), rice husk biochar at 200°C (RH200), 400°C (RH400), and 600°C (RH600), sawdust at 200°C (SD200), 400°C (SD400), and 600°C (SD600) following a completely randomized design with 3 replications per treatment. Cattle manure was applied uniformly (25 t ha^-1) across all treatments, including the control. Over 50 days, SD400 resulted in the tallest plants, SD600 produced the thickest stem and RH600 had the highest number of leaves. Biochar applications showed significantly higher fruit weight and counts, which was on average 24 % higher than the control, with no significant differences between rice husk and saw dust biochar at three different temperatures. The study suggests that high quality biochar can be produced from both rice husk and saw dust and its application boost legume yields, which is crucial for enhancing country’s nutritional and food security.

Study on the effect of drought and waterlogging conditions on yield and growth of three local varieties of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)

Fatema Tuj Zohura — 2024-12-25

Climate change causes substantial abiotic pressures like drought and waterlogging to reduce eggplant production every year in Bangladesh. Hence, this study aims to investigate the influence of the abiotic stresses on the yield and growth of three local varieties of eggplants including BARI Begun-5, BARI Begun-7 and Purple king in Bangladesh. Also the study aims to find out the proper eggplant variety for the southern and norther parts of Bangladesh. The experiments were carried out using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications followed by statistical analysis using Statistix 10 software. In comparison to drought and waterlogging conditions, purple king was observed to exhibit larger plant height of 36.5 cm, SPAD value of 57.4, and fruit yield of 1.5 kg/pot when applying a control condition. The results showed that both the waterlogging and drought conditions influenced significantly and reduced the growth and yield of the eggplants. Between them, the waterlogged conditions affected the outputs more. It is worth noting that the BARI Begun-5 was affected by the treatments more than the BARI Begun-7 and Purple king. This study suggests that the purple king variety should be the suitable variety for the southern and norther parts of Bangladesh.

Ms Review on Effect, mechanism and management methods of drought stress in wheat

Smirti Sharma

Wheat is considered the most important cereal crop in the Poaceae family. Among all biotic and abiotic stress, drought is one of the most limiting factors for crop production and food security. The relevant reports related to the effect of drought stress and management in wheat were collected from the study of journal articles, research papers, books, and review articles, and major findings were summarised. Water unavailability in soil affects morphological, physiological, and biochemical phenomena. Morphological changes like seedling length, primary roots length, seedling fresh weight, seedling dry weight, shoot dry weight, and germination rate occur during drought conditions in the soil. Changes in physiological phenomena like cell growth pattern, chlorophyll content and photosynthetic rate, evapotranspiration rate, membranous stability, and Relative water content occur due to water scarcity in soil. Biochemical changes in proline content, antioxidant enzymes defense system, osmotic adjustment, abscisic acid production, and lipid peroxidation occur during water-deficient periods in wheat. Despite all these causes four mechanisms of drought tolerance. Escape, avoidance, recovery, and tolerance are present in the wheat crop, which somewhat copes with drought dress. Secondary messengers like Ca2+, ROS, and ABA activate transcription factors, forming drought tolerance protein that reduces moisture stress in wheat crops. In addition, Drought-tolerant wheat cultivars need to be developed using modern approaches such as physiological trait-based breeding, molecular breeding, marker-assisted backcrossing, genome editing, and transcriptase factors for better productivity and food security which is considered to be the major aim of this review.

Effectiveness of pre-emergence herbicides on weed population and yield of boro rice (cv. BRRI dhan58) under different dose

Md. Zobayer Hossain — 2024-12-25

Weed management is crucial for optimal crop performance in rice cultivation. In this respect, an experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory (AFL), Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh, from December 2019 to May 2020 and aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of various herbicide treatments on weed management and crop performance in rice cultivation, focusing on the variety BRRI dhan58. The study included a control group and various herbicide treatments: half the recommended dose (RD), RD, and a double dose of pendimethalin, bensulfuron methyl + acetachlor, bensulfuron methyl + bispyribac sodium, pretilachlor, and butachlor. Eleven weed species from six families infested the plots. The results showed that double doses of pre-emergence herbicides resulted in lower weed populations (WP) (m^-²), reduced weed dry weight (DW) (gm^-2), and higher weed control efficiency (WCE %). The highest weed control efficiencies at 30 DAT were 94.58% for Bensulfuron methyl + Acetachlor and 94.38% for Pretilachlor. The double dose of Bensulfuron methyl + Acetachlor achieved the lowest WP and DW and the highest WCE. Crop performance improved significantly with the double dose of Bensulfuron methyl + Acetachlor, resulting in the highest PH, a more significant number of effective tillers (NET) hill^-1, 1000-grain weight (TGW), grain yield (GY), straw yield (SY), biological yield (SY), and harvest index (HI). The second-highest GY was observed with the double dose of Bensulfuron methyl + Bispyribac sodium. The study concluded that the double dose of Bensulfuron methyl + Acetachlor was the most effective weed management strategy, leading to the highest grain yield in boro rice. These findings highlight that using a double dose of Bensulfuron methyl + Acetachlor not only offers superior weed control but also maximizes grain yield, making it the most effective weed management strategy for boro rice cultivation and a practical recommendation for farmers seeking to optimize productivity through targeted herbicide application.

Biophysical and temporal factors influenced population dynamics of woolly aphid, codling moth and mealybug in apple (Malus domestica B.) production of southern Ethiopia

Zemenu Fentahun — 2024-09-25

Apple is one of the most popular fruit crops globally, including Ethiopia. However, its productivity is adversely influenced by many constraints. Insect pests, such as woolly apple aphids, codling moths, and mealybugs, are major damaging biotic constraints globally, including Ethiopia, and their population dynamics are significantly influenced by biophysical and temporal changes. Field surveys were conducted in the Chencha highlands of southern Ethiopia during the 2021 and 2022 main rainy and off seasons to determine the prevalence and incidence of these insect pests and the associations of biophysical and temporal factors with these pests’ population changes. Multistage random sampling approaches were followed for data collection, and consequently, 164 apple fields were inspected for insects’ occurrence. Logistic regression analyses were employed to determine the association of independent variables with the incidence of each insect pest. Results showed that the prevalence (90.18, 75.61, and 50.45% in 2021 and 70.26, 54.15 and 36.48% in 2022, respectively), incidence, and number of individual insects per tree varied across years, seasons, and other biophysical factors. These parameters were higher in the off-season in 2021 than in the main rainy season in 2022. Accordingly, incidences of aphids, codling moths, and mealybugs were recorded at about 57.56, 54.93, and 33.29% in 2021, and 37.01, 40.78%, and 21.23% in 2022, respectively. Association analyses revealed that independent variables such as years, seasons, altitude, age of tree, growth stages, cropping systems, weed infestation, and tree management were significantly (P<0.001) associated with the incidences of all studied insects in the reduced multiple regression model. Apple cultivation at an altitude of ≤2500 m and main rainy season with recently planted trees (≤5 years), flowering to fruit development growth stages, high weed infestation, and tree management through composting and pruning had significant associations with low wooly aphids (≤15%), codling moths (≤40%), and mealybug (≤20%) incidence and can be considered as management options to reduce the aforementioned insects and associated yield losses to ensure apple production.

Comparative study of mash vs pellet feed on growth performance and feed utilization by goat

Sagun Malla — 2024-09-25

This study was conducted in Bharatpur-11, Chitwan, Nepal, to evaluate the effects of two feed forms (mash and pellet) on the growth performance and feed utilization in goats. Twenty Boer cross female goats, averaging five months in age, were assigned to either mash or pellet feed treatments, with 10 goats in each group, for a 90-day period, with two weeks of adaptation. The experimental animals were given concentrate feed at 1% of their body weight daily, along with ad libitum access to Napier grass and clean drinking water. Both feed types had a dry matter content of 90% and a crude protein level of 17%. Key parameters assessed included feed and forage intake, body weight changes, and feed wastage. Goats on pelleted feed showed a significantly higher average daily weight gain of 62.00 g/day compared to 26.11 g/day for those on mash feed. Final body weights were also greater in the pellet-fed group (28.88 kg) compared to the mash-fed group (25.04 kg). Additionally, pelleted feed led to higher intake of concentrate and forages and significantly reduced feed wastage, with pellet feed waste being 1.22 g/day versus 27.65 g/day for mash feed. These findings indicate that pelleted feed enhances growth performance, feed intake, and feed efficiency in goats. Therefore, this study indicated that pelleted feed is a more effective option for enhancing goat productivity and reducing feed wastage.

Impact and tolerance mechanism of heat stress in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.): A review

Suchi Bhatt — 2024-09-25

Wheat is one of the major cereal crops preferred by world’s population. About 55% of world’s population depend on wheat to meet their 20% calorie requirement. Wheat being a winter crop grows best in 15-25 degree Celsius of temperature range. But due to increasing global warming climatic requirement of wheat is not fulfilled and suffer different abiotic stresses such as heat, drought, salinity, cold, excess water etc. Among which heat stress is one of the major abiotic stresses faced by wheat. It has different morphological, biochemical and physiological consequences on wheat for instance poor grain quality, decreased grain number and weight, decreased photosynthesis due to disruption in chlorophyll structure and function, reduced starch content due to poor efficiency of enzyme required in biosynthesis. To cope up with all these impacts of heat stress wheat has developed various tolerance mechanisms such as release of heat shock protein, antioxidant defense mechanism, membrane thermostability, stay green, omics approaches etc. Heat shock protein helps to prevent death of cell, accumulation of denatured protein, refolding of protein, transmission of heat shock responses etc. While omics approaches help in gene profiling, protein identification etc. knowledge about both the effect and tolerance mechanism of heat stress in wheat helps to develop heat tolerant varieties with collaborative effort of plant breeder, physiologist etc. that helps to maintain food security.

Impacts of submergence stress on rice plants and its adaptation: A review

Dipak Khanal — 2024-09-25

The main aim of this review is to convey information in summarized form by compiling and interpreting the major findings of recent studies on the impacts of submergence stress on rice and tolerance mechanisms. Published research papers available in Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Pub Med, mainly by Elsevier and SpringerLink, were critically analyzed and
summarized for the preparation of the manuscript. In rice, plant survival rates, growth, and development are adversely affected by submergence. Major findings documented that submergence alters the soil aeration and creates hypoxic and anoxic conditions, which results in low photosynthetic efficiency and sugar status in rice plants. Compared to a tolerant cultivar, a sensitive cultivar produces more ethylene and causes injury to the plant. Controlled underwater shoot elongation, higher conserved non-structural carbohydrates, and better hormonal regulation, especially ethylene and gibberellin, and abscisic acid, are the primary adaptive mechanisms of tolerant plants in submergence, which helps better recovery at the post-submergence stage, too. The Sub1 gene and the associated QTLs are crucial for the superior performance of tolerant cultivars in submergence. Any agronomic management practices that can reduce ethylene production and enhance the nutrient status of plants can alleviate the severity of submergence. Understanding the intricate relationship between submergence and rice plant response is essential, mainly how submergence affects the rice plant and its tolerance mechanism to develop resilient rice cultivars that can grow in flood-prone regions.

Performance of Rice Landraces for Yield and Yield-Related Traits in Rainfed Conditions

The primary staple crop in Nepal in terms of production and cultivated area is rice (Oryza sativa L.). This study evaluates agronomic performance of fifteen genotype of rice landraces under rainfed conditions in Krishnapur Municipality, Kanchanpur, Nepal, during the rainy season of 2023. The experiment was conducted on alpha lattice design with 2 replications. The study focused on the yield and yield related traits including tiller per plant, plant height, panicle length, days to 50% flowering, and grain length and width. ANOVA showed the significant variation among different genotype for various trait. Rai Manuwa showed the highest tiller per plant (9), plant height (146 cm), panicle length (27.5 cm), and grain yield per plant (16.63 gm.), indicating greater drought adaptability. Sarju also performed better as comparison to others. It showed high grain yields per plot (Sarju: 3.2 t/ha) and significant numbers of primary branches per panicle, indicating fair adaptability to drought. However, Sorali showed the lowest performance across most traits, indicating poor drought tolerance. The yield's trait association analysis showed a strong positive correlation between the average tiller per plant and the average panicle length, as well as between the total grain yield per plant and its contributing features. Therefore, yield could be increased by selecting for these traits. Fifteen different genotypes of rice landraces were grouped into four separate groups using the cluster analysis process. Genotypes in Cluster 2 (Rai Manuwa, Sarju) and cluster 3 (Taichin) were identified as potential genotypes and tiller per plant, panicle length and grain yield as potential trait for breeding program focused at improving drought tolerance.

Socioeconomic impact of livestock production in Gokuleshowor, Baitadi, Nepal

Dipak Raj Bist — 2024-09-25

The study was carried out at the Baitadi district's Dilashaini rural municipality. The study area was primarily based on agriculture. Farmers in the studied area adopted a complex type of farming system that includes livestock, crops, fruits, forestry, and vegetable farming. This study was mainly conducted to identify key problems faced by farmers and the socioeconomic importance of livestock farming. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to randomly choose respondents for a key informant interview. 61 households were randomly selected without the replacement method. The results showed that most of the households were headed by men (52 households). The primary occupation was agriculture (72%), followed by business (22%). A benefit-to-cost ratio of 1.65 was discovered. Milk was priced at 48.08
rupees per liter. We found feeding management to be the main problem. Farmers invest a huge amount of their income in managing feed for livestock. Natural breeding was largely prevalent in the study area (96%); artificial insemination was still rare. In the studied area, the dairy sector was profitable, so it emphasized improved breeding programs, improved feeding management, and the establishment of well-managed dairy cooperatives, which helped in the development of the rural economy and the lifestyle of farmers.

Determination of fertilizer requirement of Indonesian black rice in winter season under different plant spacing at Agro-ecological Zone-9 of Bangladesh

Jannatul Ferdos Shimu — 2024-09-25

Indonesian black rice is quite popular for its highly nutritive value and profitable production. The distinct knowledge about optimum fertilizer doses and plant spacing contributes to its promising yield. The experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, from December 2022 to May 2023 to find out the effect of fertilizer management and plant spacing on the growth and yield of Indonesian black rice in the winter season. The experiment was conducted with 5 treatments of fertilizer management viz., F₁(70% of recommended doses); F₂(80% of recommended doses); F₃(90% of recommended doses); F₄(100% of recommended doses) and F₅(110% of recommended doses) with 4 plants spacing viz., S₁(20 cm × 15 cm); S₂(20 cm × 20 cm); S₃(25 cm × 15 cm) and S₄(25 cm × 20 cm). The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design where the fertilizer management was allocated in main plots and the plant spacing was distributed in sub-plots with three replications. The result revealed that the fertilizer doses and plant spacings along with the interaction effects significantly influenced the growth and yield parameters of Indonesian black rice. Regarding vegetative growth, plant height (79.3cm), total tiller plant^-1(21.27cm), and total leaf number plant^-1(58.47) were maximal at 100% recommended dose of fertilizer(F₄) at DAT 65. Similarly, S₂(20 cm × 20 cm) had better result in crop growth and yield attributes. The interaction effects of the treatments showed significant impact on plant height, total tiller and leaf number where F₄S₂gave satisfied results. The highest values for the yield parameters including the maximum number of grains panicle^-1(100.70), 1000-grain weight (28.33g), and grain yield (5.69g) were found from the combination treatment of F₄S₂. On the other hand, the lowest grain (3.68g) yield was found from F₁S_4. Therefore, observing the results of the experiment, the best consideration was F₄S₂at Agro-ecological Zone-9 in the winter season for the desirable growth and yield of Indonesian black rice.

Effect of stocking density on growth performance, survival and production of Monosex Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) under nursery ponds in northern regions of Bangladesh

Maliha Hossain Mou — 2024-09-25

The present study was to assess and evaluate the culture potential of Tengra with short-cycle species in the seasonal water bodies of farmers’ fields and disseminate the cultural technologies in a different part of the country. The research study was evaluating the improvement of nursery management technique in drought prone area of Northern region in farmer field level. Before conducting research fish farmers of Different upazila were selected by departmental authority and pre training management. Growth, survival and production performances of Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings were evaluated for 40 days in nine nursery ponds having an area of 20 decimal each with an average depth of 1.0 m. Three stocking densities such as 1000 dec^-1 (T₁=Treatment-1), 1200 dec^-1 (T₂= Treatment-2) and 1400 dec^-1 (T₃=Treatment-3) were tested with three replications. Fry were fed with commercial nursery feed (30% crude protein). The rate of feeding was 25% to 8% of the estimated body weight of fry. The physico-chemical and biological parameters of pond water were within the suitable range for fish culture. Growth in terms of final weight, final length, weight gain, length gain and specific growth rate was significantly higher in T₁ than those obtained from T₂ and T₃. The survival of fish fingerlings was higher in T₁(85.67%) than T₃(76%) and T₂(83%) respectively. Maximum of fingerlings was produced in T₂ than those in T₁ and T₃. Among the treatments evaluated, 1000 dec^-1 was the best stocking density considering the growth performance of the fingerlings of monosex Tilapia, O. niloticus in nursery ponds.

Physicochemical characteristics and antibiotic resistance patterns of enteric bacteria isolated from harvested rainwater (HRW) in Oraukwu, Anambra State, Nigeria

E.C.S. Okoye — 2024-09-25

infections temperature, colour, turbidity, DO, TDS, TSS, alkalinity, hardness, chloride, and some heavy metals of the water samples were examined using APHA method. Bacteriological analyses were performed using the membrane filtration technique. Colonies formed were counted and expressed in CFU/100mL. Enteric bacteria were enumerated and characterized by their morphological characteristics and biochemical tests. Axenic cultures of the isolates were further subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) using the modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, based on the guidelines by CLSI. Results revealed that physicochemical parameters and some heavy metals were within acceptable limits, except for Fe (0.01-0.72 mg/L) and Pb (0.01-0.25 mg/L). Total bacterial counts ranged from 1.2×10⁴ to 6.8×10⁴CFU/100mL, indicating high contamination. Morphological characteristics revealed twelve (12) isolates of enteric bacteria, comprising Escherichia coli (41.67%), Salmonella sp. (33.33%) and Shigella sp. (25%). All the isolates exhibited 100% resistant to augmentin and tetracycline, but showed varying degrees of susceptibilities; E. coli to levofloxacin (60%), Salmonella sp. to ertapenem, imipenem, levofloxacin and nalidixic acid (100%), and Shigella sp. to ceftriaxone and ertapenem (100%). ‘First flush’ diverters are recommended to be installed within the water collecting system, in order to divert runoff from the rooftop after a period of no rainfall. Antibiotics which the isolates were susceptible to are recommended for the treatment of infections caused by these pathogens.

Effect of different organic manures on the growth and yield of Zucchini in Khotang, Nepal

Anuja Subedi — 2024-09-25

This experiment was conducted from February 2022 to May 2022 in ward no 1 of Diktel Rupakot Majuwagadi Municipality, Khotang district of Nepal to evaluate the efficacy of different organic manures in the growth and yield of zucchini in Khotang. We aimed to identify the most effective organic manure (goat manure, poultry manure, farm yard manure (FYM), vermicompost experiment, and control), and the research was carried out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with five treatments and four replications. The Cheongma variety of zucchini was used as a test crop. The recommended dose of manure (goat manure at 20 t/ha, poultry manure at 15 t/ha, FYM at 20 t/ha, vermicompost at 6 t/ha, and control) was applied to each treatment. There is no significant difference observed between treatments and vegetative parameters but a significant difference was found in yield. Furthermore, results showed that the highest yield was obtained from the field treated with poultry manure (1.84 kg), followed by FYM (1.40 kg) and 1.38 kg on vermicompost, respectively. The minimum yield was recorded at 1.09 kg from control, followed by goat manure (1.29 kg). The study by (Farhan, 2021; Eifediyi, 2010) found that the application of poultry manure and FYM significantly increased fruit yield and our research study also demonstrated the same findings.

Seed germination and seedling development of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) landraces under elevated salinity conditions

Pawan Chapagaee — 2024-09-25

Due to osmotic stress, ion toxicity, and nutrient imbalances, salinity is a common environmental problem that affects about 20.87% of agricultural land. It severely limits crop production, including wheat, by making it harder for seeds to germinate and for seedlings to grow. To study the effect of salinity stress on wheat landraces, we aimed to examine the seedling characteristics of wheat landraces under salinity stress. The study followed a two-factor Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four replications. Four different concentrations of NaCl (0 mM, 25 mM, 50 mM, 75 mM) and five landraces (Bhartale, Jhuse, Rato Gahun, Mudule, and Aadhikhole) were used for investigation during the germination and early seedling stages of wheat landraces. The highest germination percentage (GP) (97.25%) and seed vigour index (SVI) (92886) were observed in Jhuse, whereas the lowest GP (60.50%) and SVI (11494) were observed in Rato Gahun. Rato gahun had the highest mean germination time (5.99 days), and Mudule had the lowest mean germination time (4.82 days). The maximum fresh weight (0.12 g) and dry weight (DW) (0.042 g) were recorded by Aadhikhole and Jhuse, and the minimum fresh weight (DW) (0.10 g) and DW (0.032 g) were observed in Mudule. The maximum shoot and root lengths were observed in Bhartale (3.05 cm) and Jhuse (3.54 cm), whereas the minimum shoot length (SL) (2.07 cm) and root length (RL) (2.41 cm) were observed in Rato Gahun. Above all, salinity stress negatively impacts wheat seedling characteristics, and Mudule shows some promising stress tolerance compared to others.

A review on genetic parameters estimation, trait association, and multivariate analysis for crop improvement

Punam Roka — 2024-09-25

This review paper aims to elucidate the critical genetic parameters essential for practical crop breeding, focusing on the nature and extent of variability, its inheritance, and the complexity of traits. By evaluating genetic parameters such as Genetic Coefficient of Variation (G.C.V.), Heritability, Genetic Advance as a percentage of the Mean (G.A.M.), correlation coefficients, path coefficient analysis, cluster analysis, and principal component analysis, the review provides a comprehensive framework for optimizing breeding strategies. Emphasizing higher G.C.V. values minimizes environmental effects while highlighting Heritability and G.A.M. aids in predicting trait transmission and potential genetic improvement. The review also underscores the importance of traits with high G.C.V., Heritability, and G.A.M. for effective selection and improvement. Additionally, cluster and principal component analyses are powerful tools for identifying genetically diverse parents and reducing trait dimensionality. The findings suggest that thoroughly understanding and applying these genetic parameters can significantly enhance decision-making in plant breeding programs, ultimately leading to more efficient and targeted genetic improvements.

Drought stress and its management in wheat

pratikshya pokhrel

Wheat is a major cereal and is considered a source of basic calories and protein for more than 80%of the world population. In Nepal, it is grown in a dominant rice-wheat cropping pattern. Regarding the global climate change in the past few decades, the impact of the water deficit on wheat is gaining concern worldwide. Drought stress causes a severe loss in wheat productivity in growing regions worldwide. Water deficit at the critical stage of wheat growth causes a significant loss in yield of wheat. Drought stress affects every aspect of wheat growth from germination to maturity. Morphological, physiological, biochemical and molecular changes are seen as a result of drought stress in wheat. Wheat requires about 266.8-500mm of water for a normal attainable yield, but prolonged drought seriously affects photosynthesis as it hampers the carbon dioxide assimilation rate. Growing drought-tolerant varieties and applying agronomic management to create innovative water-use approaches are important for drought management. This review could be useful for wheat researchers and growers to make the right decision on drought management in wheat

The Impact of climate change on rice production in South Asia

Aayush Poudel

Rice production is the most important agricultural measure for economic stability and food security in South Asia. It accounts for almost 40% of the world's harvested rice area and is home to 74% of the population living on less than $2.00 a day. The climate change had a profound effect on rice production through the shifts in temperature anomalies, rainfall patterns and emissions of CO2 and CH4 gasses. I employed an econometric model; pooled regression analysis to analyze the effect of CO2, CH4 , temperature anomalies, rainfall, biological fixation and control variables as forest area and fertilizer consumption on rice production.

There is a significant relationship between methane emissions, rainfall, forest area while the effects of CO2 and temperature are less pronounced. CH4 and reduction in rainfall measures are associated with decrease in rice production whereas forest area, usage of fertilizer consumption and biological nitrogen fixation increase the yield.

The findings show the complexities of climate change and the need for adaptable rice production practices. The findings urges to incorporation climate resilience measures into agricultural production for food security and economic enhancement of rice production in South Asia.

Keywords: South Asia, Rice production, Climate Dynamics, Panel Data, Pooled Regression.

The Impact of climate change on rice production in south asia

The findings show the complexities of climate change as well as the need for adaptable rice production practices. The findings urges to incorporate climate resilience measures into agricultural production for food security and economic enhancement of rice production in South Asia.

Exploring economic viability: A study on profitability and resource efficiency in Polycarp production within the fish super zone of Dhanusha district, Nepal

Bipin Rijal — 2024-09-25

Dhanusha district of Nepal is recognized as a fish hub of the country still operative fish farming in a semi-commercial level. This study evaluated and analyzed the profitability and resources utilization efficiency in the Polycarp production within the fish super zone of Dhanusha district. Along with it, the study covers socio-demographic characteristic of respondent, determine the factor affecting fish production, rank such challenges based on farmer’s experience, and evaluate returns to scale fish production of this site. 64 farmers were randomly selected and surveyed through a semi-structured questionnaire. In order to collect primary data, pre-tested interview schedule, focus group discussion, key informant Interview, and field survey were conducted. Secondary data were collected by reviewing relevant publications. Analysis of socio-demographic data revealed a predominantly male participation rate (98.44%), with overall aged between 30 and 50 years, among whom the Yadav caste showed maximum engagement (27%). Regarding land ownership, the majority (68.76%) leased land for this activity. Carp polyculture exhibited an average water surface area of 1.55 hectares. The average yearly cost of producing carp fish was Rs.1069644.00, or Rs. 891370.00 per hectare of water surface, per year with fixed costs 15.55% and variable costs 84.45%. Notably, feed costs constituted the largest expense at 49.87%, followed by labor (15.52%) and fingerlings (9.40%). Silver carp emerged as the primary market contributor, comprising 22.96% of total production (6010 kg), followed by common carp, Grass carp, Rohu, Naini, Bighead carp, and Bhakur. Net returns per hectare was Rs. 2,24,348.87, with a resulting B:C ratio of 1.33, indicating economic viability. Challenges identified in the study area included the timely unavailability of fingerling, high feed cost and theft.

Impact of construction activities on the air quality of Agra city, Uttar Pradesh, India

Mukesh Ruhela — 2024-09-25

The current research work was carried out to comprehensively assessed the impact of construction activities on the air quality. Seven sites were chosen along the metro line construction in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, to meet the study's goals. The monitoring was performed for 24 hours at each site using the respirable dust sampler (RDS) with a gaseous sampling attachment. The raw data was processed to calculate the Air Quality Index (AQI). The data obtained indicate that all the examined sites had PM₁₀ (particulate matter having the diameter less than or equal to 10 micron) values above the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQ) values of 100 µg/m³, while SS-05 and SS-06 had PM_2.5(particulate matter having the diameter less than or equal to 2.5 micron) values above the NAAQ values of 60 µg/m³. Values of CO, SO₂, and NO₂ were discovered to be lower than the NAAQ standard limits. Because PM10's sub index (Si) was found to be the greatest across all locations, it was determined to be the criterion pollutant among all the metrics. Based on the AQI value, the research area's overall air quality was determined to be moderately polluted. At every location, a variety of management techniques, including mist guns, water spraying, and planting, are regularly used to reduce air pollution. Effective implementation of applied air pollution control measures is required to make the air clean and safe for breathing.

EFFECT OF NITROGEN AND PHOSPHORUS FERTILIZER APPLICATION RATES ON YIELD AND QUALITY OF PURPLE TEA (Camellia sinensis(L) O. Kuntze) IN THE KENYAN RIFT VALLEY

The purple tea cultivar has attracted considerable attention owing to its high levels of anthocyanins that have immense health benefits. The effect of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer application rates on the yield and quality of purple tea was investigated over a six-month period at two sites; Nandi and Kericho in the Kenyan Rift Valley. A randomized complete block design replicated three times was used with nine treatments consisting of three phosphate application rates; 0, 15 and 30 kg P ha^-1, in a factorial combination with three nitrogen rates; 0, 75 and 150 kg N ha^-1. Tea leaves were harvested after every fourteen days and their yield, N, P contents, anthocyanin and antioxidant activity determined. The was no significant effect of P rate on tea yield but the effect of N rate was significant, with yields generally increasing with N rate both sites. The effect of P rate on leaf N content was not significant. However, but there was a significant effect of N rate on N content in tea leaves in Nandi where the order of N content in the leaf was 0 < 75 > 150 kg N ha^-1. The anthocyanin content generally increased with increasing N and P rates at both sites. The P rate had no significant effect on antioxidant activity. However, N rate had significant effect on the antioxidant activity at both sites with the antioxidant activity in the control treatment being significantly lower than the other two N rates.

Key words: Anthocyanins, Antioxidant activity, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Purple tea

Combined hot water extract of lentil and grass pea increase weed control efficiency and yield of boro rice

Mijanur Rahman — 2024-09-25

The agriculture sector is continuously adopting environmentally friendly and sustainable methods to reduce the harmful effects of herbicides on crop production. In this context, an experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory (AFL), Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh, from December 2021 to May 2022, to investigate the effect of combined hot water extracts of lentil and grass peas (ELG) on weed control efficiency and yield performance of boro rice. The experiment involved four varieties of boro rice (BAU dhan3, BRRI dhan28, BRRI dhan81, and BRRI dhan96) and four treatments of crop residues. For most weed species, varieties and crop residue extracts significantly impacted weed population (WP) and weed dry weight (DW). The highest numbers of effective tillers (NET) hill^-1, numbers of spikelets panicle^-1 (NSP), 1000-grain weight (TGW), grain yield (GY), and straw yield (SY) were observed in the three-times hand weeding treatment. This was followed by the combination of hot water ELG applied as a pre-emergence treatment three days after transplanting and post-emergence ten days after transplanting, with the lowest values found in the no-extract treatment. Considering interaction effects, the highest GY (7.07 t ha^-1) and SY (8.23 t ha^-1) were observed with hand weeding combined with the variety BAU dhan3. The results of this study indicated that hand weeding, followed by the combined application ELG crop residue, showed potential activity to suppress WP and significantly affected the yield of boro rice.

ECONOMIC ANALYSIS AND PRODUCTION EFFICIENCY OF GINGER IN NEPAL

Bijaya Dangi

Nepal's diverse climatic zones—terai, hill, and mountain—offer significant advantages for agricultural production, with the agricultural sector contributing 24.1% to the nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the fiscal year 2022/2023. Despite a decline in agriculture's GDP contribution over the years, the sector remains pivotal, with food crops, vegetables, and cash crops like ginger playing prominent roles. Ginger (Zingiber officinale), a high-value spice and medicinal plant, is crucial for Nepal’s economy, which ranks fourth globally in ginger production. However, the sector faces several challenges including low productivity, outdated farming practices, and inadequate infrastructure for quality control. This paper examines the status, production efficiency, and economic aspects of ginger farming in Nepal. It highlights that while ginger production has increased annually at a rate of 6.67%, actual yields are significantly lower than potential yields due to inefficiencies and traditional practices. Economic analysis reveals a disparity between production costs and market prices, exacerbated by price fluctuations and reliance on Indian markets. The value chain is characterized by fragmented farming practices, with farmers often lacking market information and facing challenges in value addition. Key findings indicate that improving production efficiency requires modernizing farming techniques, enhancing technical knowledge, and developing better infrastructure for quality control and processing. Addressing these issues could potentially uplift the socio-economic status of Nepalese ginger farmers. The paper concludes with recommendations for policy interventions and support programs aimed at increasing productivity, enhancing market access, and boosting the overall value chain of ginger in Nepal.

Ms Review on Effect, mechanism and management methods of drought stress in wheat

Smirti Sharma

The Poaceae family includes wheat, considered the most significant cereal crop. Drought is a major factor affecting crop yield and food security among biotic and abiotic stressors. Relevant reports on the effects of drought stress and management in wheat were collected from journal articles, research papers, books, and review articles, and major findings were summarized. Morphological, physiological, and biochemical phenomena are affected by soil water availability. Morphological changes such as seedling length, primary root length, seedling fresh weight, and germination rate, occur during drought conditions in the soil. Changes in physiological phenomena such as cell growth pattern, chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate, evapotranspiration rate, membranous stability, and relative water content, occur due to water scarcity in the soil. Biochemical changes in proline content, antioxidant enzyme defense systems, osmotic adjustment, abscisic acid production, and lipid peroxidation occur during water-deficient periods in wheat. Despite these factors, there are four mechanisms underlying drought tolerance. Escape, avoidance, recovery, and tolerance are present in wheat crops that can cope with drought stress to some extent. Reducing Oxygen Species, ABA, and Ca2+ are examples of secondary messengers that stimulate transcription factors. This ultimately results in the production of drought-tolerance proteins, which reduce moisture stress in wheat crops. In addition, drought-tolerant wheat cultivars need to be developed using modern approaches, such as physiological trait-based breeding, molecular breeding, marker-assisted backcrossing, genome editing, and transcription factors, to improve productivity and food security which is considered to be the major aim of this review.

ECONOMIC ANALYSIS AND PRODUCTION EFFICIENCY OF GINGER IN NEPAL

Bijaya Dangi

Nepal is the fourth largest producer of ginger in the whole world. It has been part of hilly farms from the ancestral period. With the traditional knowledge and favorable soil and climate, Nepal is the possible hub of organic ginger of world. Along with the tag of being 16^th largest exporter of ginger in the world, India being largest importer of Nepalese ginger also comes together. In Nepal, Illam is the largest producer of ginger followed by Salyan. Ginger is also the largest produced spice in Nepal. The present potential yield of ginger in Nepal is 24.5 ton/ha but the production is low with highly unstable market demand and price. Through value chain analysis in various papers, producer, collector/wholesaler, retailer and exporter are considered main actors in ginger market in Nepal. Ginger are sold in various forms to different part of the world, but the most profitable form is considered sutho. Even though farmers share in market price is around 50%, production cost of ginger is still higher than income. In Nepal, Kalimati is the biggest market for fresh ginger. Beside that other markets are scattered in various districts of terai region. Ginger is exported through three ports all over the world; Indian Port, Bangladesh Port and China Port. Dabur Nepal, Gorkha Ayurved, Singh Durbar Vaidyakhana, Male International, and Coffee Plantec are some big ginger consumer of Nepal but the traditionally prepared ‘sutho’ or dried ginger couldn’t even match the quality required by Dabur Nepal. Situation like this is mainly due to lack of storage and processing facilities, lack of laboratories for quality check and lack of scientific and technical advancement in the production methods. Overall, this article shows the status of ginger production and its marketing in Nepal

Citrus growers' knowledge, attitudes, and implementation towards Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) in Palpa, Nepal

Bidya Ojha — 2024-09-25

There is a high demand of citrus fruits in mid-hills region of Nepal. To increase its productivity, it is important to incorporate sustainable practices into orchard management. Therefore, the study was conducted in summer 2022 to understand commercial citrus farmers' knowledge on Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and correspond production methods of GAP aware farmers with GAP standards in the Palpa, Nepal. Altogether, 64 commercial citrus growers were interviewed with pre-tested semi-structured questionnaires for the data collection. The farmers were categorized into GAP aware and unaware based on the criteria made by the group discussion with the leading farmers and GAP standards. The result revealed that out of ten selected standards, adoption of GAP standards by GAP aware farmers are positive in relation to orchard management practices (99%), plantation (90%), harvest and storage (90%), soil management and fertilization (63%), and hygiene and environment management (61%)— with human welfare (100%) adopted by all of the aware respondents and GAP related to documentation and records (25%) were found to be least adopted. The entire aware respondents agreed to the fact that GAP produced fruit have a better appearance and improved quality, satisfies national and international standards and enhances the export potential of fruits but 97% of respondents didn’t agree that adopting GAP helps in providing incentives or support from governmental organizations. The understanding of GAP among the citrus growers is limited and hence, it is crucial to organize awareness programs and provide supplementary training sessions to enhance their understanding and adoption of GAP practices.

Growth yield performance of different hybrid cauliflower (Brassica oleraceae var. botrytis L.) cultivars in Dang, Nepal

Manoj Basnet — 2024-09-25

Cauliflower is commonly grown in terai and mid-hills during the winter season (September to December), thus known as mid-season cole crop in the context of Nepal. As this cropping period possess favorable environmental condition to grow, and the production cost is comparatively lower and productivity is higher as compared to early and late seasons crop. Farmers are cultivating various hybrid (F1) cultivars to increase the yield and income. Every year, several hybrids are being imported in Nepal and there needs a varietal trial before being recommended at farmer’s field. Thus, this experiment was conducted at horticulture farm of Campus of Live Sciences. Tulsipur, Dang, Nepal for two consecutive years (2021 and 2022 AD) to evaluate the growth and yield attributes of five hybrid cauliflower cultivars. Cultivars viz. Snow Best, Snow Crown, Super White Top, Rami and Damy were treated as treatment and replicated four times in Randomized Complete Block Design. The experiment showed that cultivar Super White Top and Snow Crown had desirable vegetative characteristics, better yield, and higher harvest index as compared to other cultivars. Hence, Super White Top and Snow Crown could be promoted for cultivation in the agro climatic zones related to that of Tulsipur, Dang. Considering the economically important growth and yield attributes Super White Top and Snow Crown were found to be the suitable mid-season hybrid cultivars in Dang condition.

The Factors Affecting Milling Recovery in Rice Processing System; A Review Article

Melese Ageze Mihretu

Rice is the seed of the grass species (Oryza Sativa L.). It is a cereal grain widely consumed staple food for over half of the world's human population. This review aims to study and understand different types of rice processing methods, types of rice processing machines, the causes of rice milling loss, and the solutions recommended by the scholars. Rice processing is the extraction of edible grain from its paddy. The process of removal of the husk is known as de-husking or de-hulling or shelling. It is done by a de-husking machine which is either Engelberg (having steel roller) or SB series (having Rubber roller) machine. Rice milling is the process of removal of the bran. It is also called polishing. For advanced rice processing plants, polishing is the process of shaping or smoothening of the rough surface of milled rice. Many rice grain-producing countries have significant losses in post-harvest processing due to the poor physical properties of rice varieties, the poor performance of rice processing technologies, and the mal-operation of the machines. Therefore, rice processing needs great care and should be performed by skilled manpower.

The Effects of Parboiling on Cooking Qualities of Rice (Selam Variety) Grown in Ethiopia

Melese Ageze Mihretu

As a result of the parboiling procedure, where the starch in the grains is gelatinized and solidified when cooled, the husk may be removed from the grain during shelling with minimal harm. Nutrient loss while cooking the grain is also prevented as a result of gelatinization. Water was absorbed by the grain's empty spaces during the gelatinization and retrogradation processes. Hence, the absorbed water and nutrient molecules can't leave after the starch has swelled up and cooled. In this study, the Selam rice variety was subjected to three factors: soaking temperatures of 40, 60, and 80^oC; soaking times of 6, 12, and 24 hours; and steaming times of 15, 25, and 35 minutes. The control group, non-parboiled rice, was also subjected to the full factorial design, which had a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) arrangement. The samples exposed to the highest time-temperature combinations showed variations in cooking time, swelling ratio, water uptake ratio, and percentage of chalkiness that were statistically significant (P<0.05). The cooking duration varied between 8.13 to 12.37 minutes, whereas the control took 9.28 minutes. The swelling ratio varied from 1.04 to 1.57, while the control was 1.26. The water uptake ratio values weren't statistically different, though. The color value difference varied from 8.95 to 19.57. When the soaking and steaming periods were extended to 24 hours and 35 minutes, respectively, for the 80^oC soaking temperature, the amount of chalkiness in the grains drastically dropped from 99.48% of the non-parboiled rice to just 0.33%. The highest soaking temperature (80^oC), soaking time (24 hours), and steaming time (35 minutes) were generally the best combinations for achieving the best cooking quality of parboiled rice.

Yield performance of aromatic fine rice as influenced by nitrogen fertilization and weed control techniques

Muhammad Salim — 2024-09-25

Nitrogen fertilization and weed management is the major concern to yield maximization of rice. The study was conducted to assess the influence of nitrogen and weed control to yield improvement of aromatic rice BRRI dhan34. The experiment included three nitrogen levels viz. 50, 100 and 150 kg N ha^-1 as well as three weeding schedules viz. one hand weeding at 15 days after transplanting (DAT), two hand weeding at 15 and 30 DAT and three hand weeding at 15, 30 and 45 DAT. The experiment was conducted with randomized complete block design. The findings demonstrated important correlations between weeding techniques, nitrogen levels and yield components. When the crop was fertilized with 50 kg N ha^-1 the highest numbers of total tillers hill^-1 (8.53), effective tillers hill^-1 (7.51), grains panicle^-1 (128.0) and grain yield (3.97 t ha^-1) were resulted. Regarding weeding practices, two manual weeding carried out at 15 and 30 DAT reported the highest numbers of effective tillers hill^-1 (7.62), grains panicle^-1 (128.1) and grain yield (4.10 t ha^-1). The highest effective tillers hill^-1 (8.33), the most grains panicle^-1 (129.8), the grain yield (4.36 t ha^-1) and straw yield (6.40 t ha^-1) were found in two hand weeding at 15 and 30 DAT combined with 50 kg N ha^-1 and the lowest grain yield (3.53 t ha^-1) was obtained from one hand weeding given at 15 DAT along with 150 kg N ha^-1. Therefore, the study demonstrated that BRRI dhan34 can be fertilized with 50 kg N ha^-1 along with two hand weeding at 15 and 30 DAT to obtained higher yield.

Integrating climate-smart agriculture for sustainable agriculture: Opportunities, challenges and future directions

Bikalpa Neupane — 2024-09-25

Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) has emerged as a valuable strategy to address the challenges of food insecurity, climate change, and environmental degradation. This study assesses the impact of six key CSA practices: technologies including water smart, energy smart, nutrient smart, carbon smart, weather smart, and knowledge smart for farming regarding the increasing world population and decreased shift in arable land. This paper employs a literature review and case analysis to demonstrate how these practices improve resource utilization, worsen environmental impacts and strengthen agriculture production systems. Several studies carried out in agriculture have stipulated that water-smart practices can help achieve improvements in water use efficiency by at least 30 percent, nutrient-smart practices can help increase soil health by a range of 20 percent, and carbon-smart practices could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by between 15 percent. This brings us back to the question of the role that CSA can play in support of processes that are directed at realizing the Sustainable Development Goals SDG 2 (Ending Hunger) and SDG 13 (Taking Action on Climate Change) on development processes across the world. However, inefficient and insecure land rights, water deficits, and high initial investment hinder the widespread adoption of the technologies. The consequences are that policies concerning the matters, a well-developed institutional environment, and farmer’s knowledge should be introduced to eliminate these issues. As to further research, the continuous improvements of the models of CSA and the financing of the CSA also need future action research. Overall, CSA offers hope for establishing strong foundations for food security and climate-resilient agricultural systems.

The Effect of drought stress and its management in Wheat-A review

Wheat, a crucial cereal crop, serves over 2.5 billion people globally, with Asia
contributing 36.25% of its projected global yield in 2020. In Nepal, it ranks third in
cultivation land and productivity, with land covering of 716,978 hectares and 2,144,568
metric tonnes production, with Madesh province having the highest producing province
producing 628,909 metric tonnes in 2078/79. Abiotic stresses along with global climate
change are the primary element that restricts global wheat production. In Nepal
eastern and central region are seen more prone to
drought condition due to water scarcity. Variation in precipitation and temperature over
time, leads to annual and seasonal drought causing yield declination leading to lower
GDP of livelihood. Drought stress affect all parts of plants including morphology,
physiology and biochemistry of wheat plant. Germination rate, plant turgor, leaf area,
nutrient and water assimilation and various aspects are affected by drought. At
physiological level, decreased photochemical efficiency, increase in production of ROS
(Reactive Oxygen Species), enhanced proline production and decreased starch
accumulation are the condition due to drought stress in wheat. To solve the problem of
drought we need to follow interdisciplinary approaches like plant breeding, agronomy,
plant physiology and water engineering. Water management, nutrient management,
soil health, time of sowing, seed priming are major activities related to agronomy for
drought stress management. Beside agronomic ways, selection of drought tolerant
varieties, transgenic approaches, QTL mapping and breeding techniques are equally
important for drought management in wheat to sustain productivity and improvement in
AGDP of Nepal.

A review on abiotic stress vulnerability of wheat and its management in Terai, Nepal

Bisheshta Gyawali — 2024-09-25

Wheat being one of the most important crops of Nepal after rice and maize is prone to abiotic stresses like heat and drought stress. Climate change, increasing temperature and decreasing precipitation is found to be the major cause of drought and heat stress, especially making developing countries like Nepal to be most vulnerable to the negative impacts on productivity and sustainability. Abiotic stress imposes devastating changes on morphology, biochemistry and physiological processes of wheat. Loss in seed vigor, decrease in germination rate, poor crop stand and abnormal embryo are common impact seen due to combined Abiotic stress. Though many trial has been performed on effect of heat and drought, there is a need for trial imposing wheat to combined stress environment. This review especially deals with the impacts of Abiotic stress along with management including tolerant varieties such as Bhrikuti, NL1420, BL4669, NL1350 and NL1368 and agronomic techniques like mulching, use of early varieties, early sowing and incorporation of Biochar.

A review on seed priming to combat climate variability in agriculture

Janak Singh Rawal — 2024-09-25

Global agriculture faces immense challenges due to climate change, which causes unpredictable weather patterns, decreased agricultural productivity, and decreased food security. Seed priming is critical in combating climate variability because it has emerged as a promising method for improving seed germination and agricultural resilience. This review evaluates the efficiency of several seed priming techniques, including hydro-priming, halo-priming, osmo-priming, bio-priming, chemical priming, and hormone priming. These techniques improve seedling vigor, stress tolerance, and overall crop yield. Seed priming increases germination rates and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, such as salinity and drought, while improving agricultural output and disease resistance. Seed priming reduces the demand for chemical pesticides and fertilizers by increasing soil quality and nutrient absorption, which supports sustainable agriculture. This review highlights the potential benefits of seed priming as a practical, affordable, and practical strategy to reduce the negative effects of climatic variability on agriculture. Future studies should focus on developing the best priming
techniques for diverse crop varieties and conditions, as well as examining the combined impacts of various priming strategies. Seed priming will be crucial to preserving food security and agricultural sustainability in the face of ongoing climate change.

Integrated nutrient management improves the nutritional quality and yield of black rice

Md. Akhter Hossain Chowdhury — 2024-09-25

Integrated nutrient management combining inorganic and organic fertilizers is a promising approach to sustain crop production and soil health. As a premium rice type, integrated nutrients to cultivate black rice are rarely studied in Bangladesh. So, this research was conducted to identify the best combination of inorganic fertilizer (IF) and cow dung (CD) for maximizing the yield and nutritional quality of black rice. The experiment was conducted in the field laboratory of the Department of Agronomy, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh following a Completely Randomized Design with four replications. Six treatments with single and combining IF and CD viz., 0% IF + 0% CD (IF₀CD₀), 100% IF + 0% CD (IF₁₀₀CD₀), 75% IF + 25% CD (IF₇₅CD₂₅), 50% IF + 50% CD (IF₅₀CD₅₀), 25% IF + 75% CD (IF₂₅CD₇₅), and 0% IF + 100% CD (IF₀CD₁₀₀) were applied. A significant variation was found among different treatments concerning plant growth, yield contributing characters, yield, and nutritional composition of black rice. Overall, a better performance was obtained from the application of 75% IF and 25% CD (IF₇₅CD₂₅) concerning most of the studied parameters with few deviations. The highest number of tillers hill^-1(8.33), effective tillers hill^-1 (7.33), panicle length (25.97 cm), spikelet’s panicle^-1 (22.87), grains panicle^-1 (129.7), grain yield (4 t ha^-1), protein (9.71%), and potassium (0.58%) were found at the treatment IF₇₅CD₂₅. The overall results suggest that 25% cow dung combined with 75% recommended inorganic fertilizers can be applied to achieve maximum yield and nutritional quality of black rice in non-calcareous soil.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield of Tomato

Namrata Acharya

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of integrated nutrient management on growth and yield of tomato. The effect of eight different types of nutrient sources were studied using randomized complete block design with three replications. Data on growth and yield parameters were taken from five randomly selected plants in each plot. The plant height was found higher in the treatment of integrated nutrient in all stages. Similarly, number of primary branches (11), number of flower (84.33), number of fruit clusters / plant (8.33) and number of fruits/clusters (9.66) was maximum with the treatment of integrated nutrient. Treatment of integrated nutrient has also produced the longest fruit length (4.64 cm) and highest fruit diameter (56.08 mm) at harvest. The fruit weight and yield / plot of tomato was maximum in the treatment of integrated nutrient 62.25 g and 75.35 kg respectively at harvest. Also yield / hectare was also maximum in treatment of integrated nutrients with 186.05 mt/ha. Growth parameters, plant height and number of branches were better performing in the application of integrated nutrient. Correlation analysis showed that traits like plant height, number of branches, number of flowers, number of fruit clusters/plant, number of fruit / clusters, fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight of tomato was to be found positively and significantly correlated with yield of tomato. The result obtained indicated that the growth and yield of tomato is highly influenced by nutrient sources.

Effect of different packaging materials on banana ripening and shelf-life in Dang, Nepal

Dipak Giri — 2024-09-25

This research was conducted to evaluate the effect of different packaging materials on the shelf life and banana quality (cv G9) at the laboratory, Campus of Live Sciences, Tulsipur, Dang, Nepal. The different packaging materials were used as high-density non-perforated polyethylene bags, low-density non-perforated polyethylene bags, low-density perforated polyethylene bags, fiber bags, jute bags, paddy straw with cardboard, and a control treatment (in open trays). The research was conducted in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. The bananas were packed in different packaging materials after being treated with a 250 ppm ethephon solution. Parameters such as peel color, physiological weight loss, pulp-to-peel ratio, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), and Benedict test were assessed at two-day interval. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed highly significant differences for all the recorded parameters except TA. Unpackaged fruits lost 22.92% of their weight, while fruits packed in high-density non-perforated polythene (HDNP) and low-density non-perforated polythene (LDNP) bags lost 13.27% and 6.15%, respectively. Peel colour development from green mature to yellow was observed first in bananas packed in low-density perforated polyethylene (LDPP) bags followed by open trays, jute bags, and paddy straws. The lowest pulp-to-peel ratio was observed in HDNP and LDNP bags. It can be concluded that packaging bananas in high-density and low-density non-perforated polyethylene bags resulted in longer shelf life. The sweetness, aroma, and mouthfeel of bananas in jute bags, fiber bags, and paddy straws were highly accepted. Thus, LDPP bags were found effective in early ripening and uniform yellow colour development on bananas.

Optimizing seed priming techniques: Impact of halo priming with sodium chloride on fenugreek (Trigonella foenum L.) in germination and stress acclimatization

Yushika Subedi — 2024-09-25

Germination is a critical stage in plant development that determines the crop yield. Seed priming acts as a pre-sowing treatment that stimulates germination and activates metabolic process. Hydro-priming is widely practiced system which enhances germination but reduces seed storability whereas halo-priming enhances self-life and induces salinity tolerance. This study investigated the effects of sodium chloride (NaCl) priming on the germination of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum L.) seeds under moisture stress conditions. Despite stress condition, seed priming can noticeably increase the germination. A lab experiment was therefore, performed to study the effect of NaCl priming on different levels of moisture stress. NaCl priming was done at 0 ppm, 2 ppm, 4 ppm and, 8 ppm subjected to priming duration of 12 hours, 24 hours and 36 hours. The result demonstrated 100% germination at 0 g for all durations (12, 24, and 36 hours), and similar outcomes were observed at 8 g for 12, 24, and 36 hours, and at 4 g and 6 g for 12 and 36 hours. While the mean germination time, coefficient of velocity of germination increased with increment in priming duration at 0 g and decrease with increment in priming duration in 8gm NaCl concentration. Halo-priming was found superior above hydro-priming for fenugreek germination as salinity induces changes in lipid metabolism towards accumulation of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids in stressed plants. This research provides compelling evidence that NaCl priming can be used to promote germination and improves acclimatization of fenugreek seedlings under saline conditions.