Journal of Experimental Agriculture International

Current Status and Mitigation Strategies of Livestock-Derived Methane Emissions and Their Role in Global Warming: A Review

Vaddeswarapu Keerthi — 2026-09-25

Livestock production contributes to anthropogenic methane emissions primarily through enteric fermentation and manure management, creating an important challenge for environmentally sustainable animal production. This review summarises the role of livestock-derived methane in global warming, with particular emphasis on the status of emissions in India and the major biological processes responsible for methane formation. Estimates based on livestock census data and IPCC-based methodology indicate that enteric fermentation represents the dominant source of livestock methane in India, while manure management makes a smaller contribution. Methane production in ruminants is closely associated with anaerobic microbial fermentation in the rumen, where hydrogen and carbon dioxide are utilised by methanogenic microorganisms. The review evaluates major mitigation approaches, including improved forage quality, tannins and saponins, probiotic supplementation, dietary lipids, methanogenesis inhibitors, nitrate supplementation, macroalgae, genetic selection, and improved manure management. These strategies differ in their mechanisms, effectiveness, and potential effects on animal nutrition and productivity. Dietary interventions may alter rumen fermentation or reduce the availability of hydrogen for methanogenesis, whereas genetic and management approaches aim to improve production efficiency and decrease emission intensity. Manure-related emissions may also be reduced through appropriate storage, treatment, composting, anaerobic digestion, and acidification. Effective methane mitigation therefore requires an integrated approach that considers emission reduction together with animal productivity, feed utilisation, and practical livestock-management conditions.

Social Network Analysis for More Effective Veterinary Extension: Knowledge Networks, Social Learning and Practice Change

Vikshansh Garg — 2026-09-15

Veterinary extension is frequently organised as if information moves from experts to individual livestock keepers through discrete advisory encounters. In practice, decisions about animal health, husbandry, prevention and treatment are embedded in relationships among farmers, veterinarians, paraprofessionals, traders, input suppliers, producer organisations, community leaders and digital communities. Social network analysis (SNA) provides a relational framework for examining these connections and for designing extension around the actual routes through which advice is accessed, trusted, reinforced and translated into practice. This critical narrative review evaluates the contribution of SNA to veterinary extension, drawing on veterinary, livestock, agricultural-extension and network-intervention evidence. The literature indicates that network position can shape access to information and opportunities for social learning, while veterinarians remain important formal information sources in many animal-health settings. Network-informed targeting can improve diffusion under some conditions, but evidence from agriculture shows that the most effective seed actors depend on the complexity of the behaviour, local topology, resource constraints and the need for repeated social reinforcement. Veterinary-specific studies further show that trustworthy brokers, peer groups and intersecting local and professional networks can be crucial in pastoral disease response, livestock technology uptake and disease reporting. Yet topology alone does not determine behaviour. Trust, perceived feasibility, shared goals, power, service availability and the quality of veterinarian-farmer communication moderate whether network exposure produces sustained practice change. Important methodological challenges include boundary specification, missing ties, unstable centrality measures, homophily-contagion confounding, cross-sectional designs and the conflation of knowledge, advice and animal-movement networks. The review argues for a multiplex, equity-sensitive and longitudinal use of SNA in veterinary extension: first diagnose relational structure; then select network interventions matched to the behavioural task; combine peer influence with credible professional support; and evaluate changes in network reach alongside behavioural and animal-health outcomes. SNA is therefore most defensible as a decision-support framework for extension design and evaluation rather than as a substitute for veterinary expertise or participatory communication.

Carbon Farming and Carbon Markets in Indian Agriculture: A Critical Narrative Review of Mitigation Potential, Verification Constraints and Smallholder Inclusion

Shweta Chaudhary — 2026-09-18

Carbon farming has moved rapidly from an agronomic proposition to a market instrument in India, where a domestic carbon credit trading scheme has been established and agriculture has been designated an offset sector alongside a growing population of project-based initiatives. Institutional development has outpaced the evidence required to support it. This critical narrative review examines whether the biophysical, methodological and institutional foundations of carbon farming are strong enough to sustain credit-based climate mitigation in Indian cropping systems. Literature published between 2004 and 2026 was identified through searching of open scholarly indexes, institutional repositories and citation-based retrieval, and was appraised for methodological adequacy, alignment between claims and evidence, and relevance to smallholder-dominated agriculture. Four conclusions emerge. The agronomic evidence for soil organic carbon accrual under conservation agriculture, agroforestry, nutrient management and amendment-based pathways is directionally consistent but modest in magnitude, regionally heterogeneous, and frequently accompanied by yield responses that differ by agro-ecological zone. Measurement, reporting and verification remains the binding constraint, because crediting protocols differ so substantially in their treatment of baseline stocks, modelling assumptions and sampling design that credits issued under different protocols are not equivalent units. The accounting principles on which credit integrity depends, namely additionality, permanence and the avoidance of double claiming, are particularly fragile where holdings are small, tenure is insecure and the practices being credited are partially pre-existing. The distributional record of early Indian projects indicates systematic under-representation of marginal farmers and women, negligible realisation of payments and substantial disadoption. The accessible evidence therefore supports carbon farming as a soil health and resilience strategy with genuine co-benefits, but does not yet support its treatment as a reliable source of fungible mitigation units at smallholder scale. Priorities include long-term regionally stratified field networks, standardised and independently validated verification architectures, systematic ex post evaluation of operating projects, and payment designs calibrated to measured opportunity costs.

From Waste to Resource in Coffee, Cocoa, Tea and Coconut Industries: Emerging Pathways for Sustainable Biorefineries

Majjiga Sreenivas — 2026-09-22

Agro-industrial residues from coffee, cocoa, tea and coconut production are chemically diverse resources whose management is increasingly framed through biorefinery and circular-bioeconomy concepts. Yet the technical possibility of converting a residue into a marketable product does not establish that the pathway is environmentally preferable, economically robust or operationally scalable. This critical narrative review evaluates emerging valorisation routes across the four industries, with emphasis on feedstock architecture, selective fraction recovery, biochemical conversion, thermochemical and materials pathways, process integration, techno-economics and life cycle performance. Peer-reviewed literature published from 2000 to 15 July 2026 was considered, with older work retained only when conceptually necessary. Evidence was appraised for feedstock characterisation, experimental scale, process intensity, mass and energy implications, product quality, environmental assessment and translational relevance. The synthesis indicates that no universal cascade applies across these commodities. Coffee residues, especially spent coffee grounds, have the comparatively strongest evidence for integrated multi-product schemes and for explicit techno-economic and environmental assessment, although solvent, steam and collection burdens remain important. Cocoa pod husk offers credible opportunities for pectin, phenolics, fermentation products and carbon materials, but drying and electricity demand can materially influence performance. Tea waste supports polyphenol recovery, biological treatment and carbon-material applications, while integrated scale-up evidence remains limited. Coconut shell and husk are particularly well suited to thermochemical conversion, adsorbents and lignin-centred routes, but catalytic intensity, ash, activation chemistry and feedstock heterogeneity can offset apparent advantages. Across all four industries, the most defensible biorefinery strategy is context-specific: it should preserve optionality for high-value fractions without creating disproportionate utility demand, match residual solids to robust conversion routes, and be tested through coupled mass balances, techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment. Future progress depends less on expanding lists of possible products than on demonstrating integrated, safe and location-specific systems at pilot and commercially relevant scales.

Custom Hiring as a Pathway to Mechanisation among Small and Marginal Farmers in India: Evidence, Institutional Constraints and Future Directions

Prerna Pakhawal — 2026-09-25

Small and marginal farmers face a structural mechanisation problem: many agricultural machines embody large fixed costs and require annual utilisation well beyond the demand of an individual small holding, yet delayed or labour-intensive operations can constrain yields, cropping intensity and farm income. Custom hiring converts machinery from a privately owned capital asset into a purchasable farm service and has therefore become central to India's strategy for inclusive mechanisation. This critical narrative review evaluates the evidence on custom hiring and Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs), with India as the principal setting and comparative evidence from other smallholder economies used to test the generality of proposed mechanisms. Literature published from 2000 to 20 July 2026 was searched across multidisciplinary, agricultural and economic scholarly sources, with earlier material retained only when historically necessary. The evidence indicates that service-based mechanisation can widen access to tractors, harvesters and specialised equipment, improve timeliness and reduce the need for under-utilised private investment. Indian studies also report favourable associations with production costs, profitability and perceived usefulness. Confidence in the size and distribution of these effects is nevertheless limited because much of the domestic literature is cross-sectional, geographically concentrated and vulnerable to selection bias. Stronger international studies confirm that machinery services can raise productivity and income, but also show that effects depend on service quality, distance, prices, provider incentives, farm size and the operation being mechanised. The central implementation challenge is therefore not simply establishing more centres, but building reliable service markets with viable fleet utilisation, transparent booking, skilled operators, maintenance capacity and equitable peak-season allocation. Digital platforms may improve routing and asset monitoring, although current evidence suggests that benefits can accrue more readily to service providers than to the smallest farmers unless analogue intermediation and local access are preserved. Future policy and research should shift from counting subsidised assets towards measuring utilisation, timeliness, farmer-level outcomes, provider viability, gendered effects and environmental performance. Custom hiring is best understood as an institutional mechanism that can relax, but does not automatically eliminate, the scale, transaction-cost and equity constraints of smallholder mechanisation.

Plant Photobiology under Artificial Lighting: A Critical Appraisal of the Translation of Light Signalling into Precision Horticultural Production

Tirtharaj Roy — 2026-09-29

Solid-state lighting has given horticultural producers unprecedented control over the spectral composition, photon flux density, photoperiod and temporal structure of the radiation delivered to crops. This control has been accompanied by an expectation that the detailed molecular understanding of plant photoreceptors accumulated over three decades can be converted directly into prescriptive lighting recipes for commercial production. The present review critically examines that expectation. It evaluates how far mechanistic knowledge of phytochrome, cryptochrome, phototropin and UV RESISTANCE LOCUS 8 signalling, and of the downstream integrators that connect these receptors to growth, actually predicts the yield, morphology, composition and economic performance of crops grown under artificial lighting in greenhouses and plant factories. Literature was identified through structured searching of open scholarly databases and indexes, supplemented by backward and forward citation tracking, with critical appraisal focused on experimental design, environmental control, replication and the adequacy of reported photometric information. The synthesis indicates that photoreceptor-level knowledge predicts direction of response reliably but magnitude poorly, and that the discrepancy arises principally from three sources: strong interaction between spectral treatments and background photon flux, temperature and carbon dioxide concentration; pronounced cultivar-level variation in response amplitude; and the dominance of whole-canopy light interception over leaf-level photochemical efficiency in determining biomass accumulation. Several widely applied heuristics, notably fixed red to blue ratios and the conventional definition of photosynthetically active radiation, are shown to rest on evidence that is weaker or more context-dependent than their routine application implies. Quality traits and physiological disorders respond to lighting in ways that frequently oppose yield objectives, and the economic and environmental evidence base remains thinner than the physiological literature. Confidence is highest for photon-flux and photoperiod effects on biomass, intermediate for spectral effects on morphology and pigmentation, and lowest for transferable spectral prescriptions across genotypes and production systems.

Instagram Reels in Farm Technology Transfer in India Content, Engagement, Institutional Support and Emerging Agripreneurial Opportunities— A Narrative Review

N. Harisha — 2026-09-29

Instagram Reels have emerged as a highly visible short-video format for sharing agricultural practices, technologies, schemes and farm-enterprise experiences in India. This narrative review examines their potential role in farm technology transfer through four connected dimensions: content, engagement, institutional support and agripreneurial opportunity. The evidence base was updated in August 2026 through targeted scholarly searches of publisher and DOI-indexed sources on agricultural social media, digital extension, farmer communication, adoption and misinformation, supplemented by primary ICAR and Government of India documents and an explicitly descriptive August 2026 snapshot of selected Indian agricultural Instagram accounts. The evidence indicates an opportunity-capacity gap. In a study covering 145 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), 15.33% reported an Instagram presence, compared with 97.33% participation in farmer WhatsApp groups. Selected creator accounts also show substantial heterogeneity in followers and estimated average Reel views. These platform metrics indicate visibility and interaction, not scientific credibility, unique farmer reach, knowledge gain or adoption. Reels appear most defensible as an awareness, demonstration and discovery layer within a broader extension system. Local validation, risk-specific advice, trial and sustained adoption still require technical institutions, demonstrations and interpersonal follow-up. The review therefore proposes an integrated model in which institutions validate agricultural messages, creators and trained communicators translate them into accessible regional-language short videos, and extension systems provide referral, follow-up and outcome verification. It also outlines potential roles for agricultural graduates in evidence-based content creation, digital advisory, training, agrimarketing and technology-enabled services. Future studies should use reproducible account sampling, platform-native analytics and farmer-level longitudinal measures that distinguish exposure from verified practice change.

Host - pathogen Interactions in Entomopathogenic Nematode-insect Systems

A. Devika — 2026-09-30

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), principally species of the genera Steinernema and Heterorhabditis, are important biological control agents that act in association with the symbiotic bacteria Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus, respectively. This review synthesises host–pathogen interactions across the EPN infection cycle, from host location and recognition to host invasion, bacterial release, immune suppression, nematode reproduction, and the emergence of infective juveniles. Infective juveniles use ambush, cruising, or intermediate foraging strategies and integrate carbon dioxide, host-derived compounds, plant volatiles, and physical cues to locate susceptible insects. After entry into the haemocoel, nematodes and their bacterial symbionts establish infection through coordinated mechanisms involving toxin and enzyme production, tissue degradation, impairment of immune-cell function, interference with melanisation and immune signalling, and modulation by nematode excretory–secretory products. Infection outcomes are further influenced by innate host defences, including phagocytosis, nodulation, encapsulation, melanisation, antimicrobial peptides, and other humoral responses. Environmental conditions, particularly temperature, soil moisture, texture, aeration, pH, and interactions with soil biota, affect infective juvenile survival, movement, infectivity, and persistence. The review also considers constraints related to host susceptibility, formulation, storage, production, cost, and variable field performance, together with research priorities in multi-omics, functional genomics, microbiome interactions, climate resilience, strain improvement, advanced formulations, and precision application. Integrating molecular, ecological, and operational knowledge may improve the reliability of EPN-based biological control within sustainable integrated pest management.

From Ocean Symbionts to Crop Allies: A Critical Appraisal of Seaweed-associated Microbiomes as Resources for Sustainable Agriculture

Athira Suresh — 2026-10-01

Seaweeds sustain dense and metabolically distinctive microbial communities whose members produce morphogens, phytohormone analogues, siderophores, vitamins, polysaccharide-degrading enzymes and antimicrobial metabolites. These properties have prompted the proposition that the seaweed-associated microbiome constitutes an underexploited reservoir of biostimulant and biocontrol agents for terrestrial crop production. This review critically examines whether the available evidence supports that proposition, and identifies where the argument currently rests on mechanistic plausibility rather than demonstrated agronomic performance. Literature was identified through structured searching of open scholarly databases and indexes, supplemented by backward and forward citation searching, with critical appraisal focused on design adequacy, control structure, ecological realism and the correspondence between laboratory phenotypes and field outcomes. Three findings emerge. First, the mechanistic literature on seaweed–bacteria interactions is conceptually mature but taxonomically narrow, resting disproportionately on a small number of model systems, principally the green macroalgal genus Ulva, and on host functions such as thallus morphogenesis that have no direct terrestrial equivalent. Second, the applied literature consists predominantly of isolate-level in vitro screening and short-term pot experiments; replicated multi-season field trials using defined seaweed-derived inocula are essentially absent, and the most frequently cited agronomic evidence concerns seaweed extracts rather than seaweed-associated organisms, which conflates two distinct interventions. Third, the transition from a marine epibiotic niche to the rhizosphere imposes osmotic, nutritional and competitive filters that are rarely measured, so reported in vitro traits cannot be assumed to be expressed in soil. The most defensible near-term contribution of this resource lies in discovery of chemically novel metabolites and defence elicitors rather than in whole-organism inoculants. Progress will require host-range and colonisation studies under realistic soil conditions, standardised reporting of strain provenance, and field evaluation designed to detect modest effect sizes.

Occurrence and Abundance of Aphid Species in Coastal Region of Bangladesh

Jenia Afrin — 2026-09-10

Aphid samples were collected from bean and brinjal plants in the coastal region (Patuakhali, Barguna, Barishal, Pirojpur, Gopalgonj and Satkhira) of Bangladesh. The survey was conducted several times at the same locations to identify the species and assess the incidence and abundance of aphid species on bean and brinjal. Molecular identification was performed in the Insect Molecular Physiology Laboratory of Kyungpook National University, Korea, using mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (mtCOI) sequences. Molecularly, two species (Aphis craccivora and Aphis gossypii) were identified by comparing their nucleotide sequences with other nucleotide sequences in the NCBI GenBank database, which formed different clades in the phylogenetic tree with distinct distances. Infestations of the brinjal aphid (Aphis gossypii) varied among localities. Survey findings indicated that Patuakhali was the most vulnerable location to A. gossypii (633.33), followed by Barishal (317.77), Pirojpur (317.17) and Barguna (306.66). The lowest number of A. gossypii (4.26) was recorded at Gopalgonj, followed by Satkhira (11.8), Barguna (22.33), Barishal, Pirojpur (24.44) and Patuakhali (82.55). The maximum occurrence of A. gossypii (173.33) was recorded across the surveyed locations in February, except at Patuakhali, where it occurred in March (633.33), and the lowest number of A. gossypii (4.26) per plant was recorded in May across all locations. Further survey investigation revealed that infestations of the bean aphid (Aphis craccivora) varied among localities. Survey findings indicated that Satkhira was the most vulnerable location to A. craccivora (1907.11), followed by Gopalgonj (1729), Pirojpur (1285) and Barishal (1142.77). The lowest number of A. craccivora (257.86) was recorded at Barguna, followed by Patuakhali (702.11). The maximum occurrence of A. craccivora (1729) was recorded across the surveyed locations in February, and the lowest number of A. craccivora (22.3) per plant was recorded in May across all locations. Moreover, the meteorological data clearly showed a negative correlation with increasing aphid populations on both bean and brinjal. Furthermore, aphid infestation on bean at every location was five- to ten-fold higher than on brinjal.

Survey of Carbohydrate Reserves in Grapevine at Fruit Pruning and Foundation Pruning

S. R. Bhagwat — 2026-09-10

The present study evaluated carbohydrate reserve dynamics in six grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) cultivars—Thompson Seedless, Sharad Seedless, Sonaka, Crimson Seedless, Nana Purple, and Clone 2A—grafted onto Dogridge rootstock under the agro-climatic conditions of Maharashtra, India, during 2019–2020. Cane samples were collected from the top, middle, and basal portions after April fruit pruning and October foundation pruning. Organic carbon, nitrogenous compounds, mineral nutrients, amino acids, proteins, starch, and the C:N ratio were determined using standard laboratory procedures. Fruit yield and quality attributes, petiole nutrient status, fruitfulness, photosynthetic parameters, and selected biochemical characteristics were also recorded. Starch concentration varied among cultivars and cane positions. In general, middle and basal cane portions showed greater starch accumulation than apical portions. Starch concentration generally increased after October foundation pruning, although the magnitude of change varied among cultivars and cane positions, indicating post-harvest reserve replenishment. In the harvest observations, Nana Purple recorded the highest bunch weight (249.74 g) and yield (21.07 t ha−1), while Thompson Seedless recorded the highest total soluble solids (20.09 °Brix). Sonaka recorded the highest fruitfulness (78.67%) and berry length (19.77 mm). Petiole analysis showed varietal differences in nitrogen and potassium status. The results indicate that carbohydrate reserve status varies with cultivar, cane position, and pruning stage and may contribute to subsequent vine growth and reproductive performance. Maintaining adequate post-harvest canopy activity and balanced nutrient management is therefore important for restoring reserves in grapevines under warm-climate production systems.

Analyzing the Socio-Economic and Institutional Determinants of Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices Adoption among Smallholder Green Gram Farmers in Masinga Sub-County, Kenya

Anna Ndunge Mutinda — 2026-09-10

Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) holds significant potential for enhancing productivity and climate resilience among smallholder farmers. In Masinga Sub-County, approximately 9,900 green gram farmers face erratic rainfall, droughts, and soil degradation, resulting in mean yields of only 460 kg/ha against a potential of 1.5 tons/ha. This study examined the socio-economic and institutional determinants, incentives, and constraints influencing CSA adoption. Anchored in the Theory of Planned Behavior and the Technology Acceptance Model, the study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires administered to 390 green gram farmers selected through stratified random sampling across the five wards of Masinga Sub-County. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics in SPSS Version 29. Results showed that 54.0% of respondents had adopted at least two CSA practices, with drought-resistant seed varieties (43.2%) and minimum tillage (42.4%) being the most common. The binary logistic regression model demonstrated a good fit (McFadden Pseudo R² = 0.395; overall classification accuracy = 80.4%) and identified significant positive predictors: access to input subsidies (OR = 2.33, p < 0.001), perceived government policy support (OR = 2.37, p = 0.002), annual household income (OR = 2.09, p = 0.006), and market linkages (OR = 1.74, p = 0.049). High input costs were the main significant barrier (OR = 0.42, p = 0.002). Thematic analysis confirmed infrastructure deficits, financial barriers, and awareness gaps as interconnected obstacles. The study findings provided valuable insights for the academic literature by addressing gaps in research on CSA adoption in semi-arid regions, particularly for drought-prone crops like green gram. Additionally, the study findings benefit policymakers by offering data-driven recommendations for designing and developing policies that enhance CSA adoption and sustainability in smallholder farming. Agricultural extension services and development organisations may use these findings to design targeted programmes that address key incentives and constraints. The study concluded that income level and access to input subsidies were the primary drivers of CSA adoption, while high input costs constituted the foremost structural barrier, with incentives and constraints each operating as integrated, mutually reinforcing systems rather than isolated factors.

Pot Design Affects Rooting Response of Cuttings

Nguyen Toan Thang — 2026-09-10

Cutting propagation plays a vital role in producing high-quality seedlings from superior genotypes for establishing intensive plantations, as this method preserves the genetic characteristics of selected mother trees while enabling rapid, large-scale multiplication. Among the various factors influencing rooting success, the choice of rooting medium is particularly critical, and sand has consistently proved to be one of the most effective rooting media across a wide range of plant species due to its favourable aeration and drainage properties. In this study, a newly designed propagation pot was developed and evaluated, featuring a sand core positioned at the centre of the pot and surrounded by an outer layer of soil. This innovative design was applied to Camellia impressinervis, a golden camellia species of significant conservation and economic value, and its performance was compared with that of a conventional pot design consisting entirely of soil. After four months of growth, cuttings grown in the newly designed pot achieved a rooting rate of 98.9%, which was significantly higher than the 73.4% recorded in the traditionally designed pot. In terms of root development, the mean root length in the newly designed pot (4.7 cm) did not differ significantly from that in the traditional pot (4.5 cm). Based on these findings, the newly designed pot incorporating a central sand core is recommended for practical application, particularly for plant species that exhibit better rooting performance in sand than in soil.

Concentration and Method Dependent Effects of Nano-Nickel on Growth and Physiological Attributes of Cowpea

Sarbasree Goswami — 2026-09-10

Aims: Nickel (Ni) is an essential micronutrient involved in important physiological and metabolic processes in plants, particularly urease activation and nitrogen metabolism. However, the beneficial effects of Ni are concentration-dependent, and excessive Ni may adversely affect plant growth and physiological performance. The use of nano-nickel (nano-Ni) offers an alternative approach for supplying Ni because of its enhanced reactivity and potential for efficient nutrient delivery. However, the response of cowpea to nano-Ni may vary according to both concentration and method of application. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of nano-Ni applied through soil, foliar spray and seed treatment on plant height, leaf area index (LAI) and SPAD value of cowpea.

Study Design: Completely Randomised Design (CRD) was undertaken.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, from March 2023 to June 2023.

Methodology: A pot experiment was conducted using the recommended dose of fertilisers (RDF), along with different concentrations of nano-Ni applied through soil, foliar spray and seed treatment. For soil application, nano-Ni was applied at 0.10, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.0 and 1.5 mg kg⁻¹, whereas for foliar spray and seed treatment, nano-Ni was applied at 10, 25, 50, 75, 100 and 250 ppm. Plant height, LAI and SPAD value were recorded at 30 and 60 days after sowing (DAS). The experimental data were analysed statistically and treatment means were compared using Duncan's multiple range test (DMRT) at P ≤ 0.05.

Results: Nano-Ni application significantly affected plant height, leaf area index (LAI) and SPAD value of cowpea, with responses varying with concentration and application method. Under soil application, the maximum plant height was recorded at 0.75 mg kg⁻¹ at 30 DAS and 0.50 mg kg⁻¹ at 60 DAS, while LAI and SPAD were highest at 0.75 mg kg⁻¹ at both stages. Foliar application produced the highest plant height and LAI at 75 ppm at both stages, whereas the maximum SPAD value was recorded at 75 ppm at both 30 and 60 DAS. Under seed treatment, plant height and LAI were maximum at 25 ppm at both stages, while the SPAD value was highest at 75 and 50 ppm at 30 and 60 DAS, respectively.

Conclusion: Nano-Ni improved plant growth and physiological performance in cowpea at optimum concentrations. Foliar application at 75 ppm was most effective for plant height and LAI, whereas the optimum concentration for SPAD varied with the application method and growth stage. The decline at higher concentrations indicates a concentration-dependent response to nano-Ni.

An Economic Analysis of Sole Pigeonpea Cultivation in Amravati District of Maharashtra, India

Anjali R. Gavhane — 2026-09-12

Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.) is an important pulse crop in India and holds considerable significance in Maharashtra because of its contribution to farm income, nutritional security and sustainable agricultural production. The profitability of pigeonpea cultivation, however, depends largely on the level and composition of cultivation costs, productivity and returns obtained by farmers. The present study was undertaken to examine the cost of cultivation and profitability of sole pigeonpea cultivation in Amravati district of Maharashtra during the agricultural year 2025–26. Primary data were collected through personal interviews with 120 sole pigeonpea farmers selected from five tehsils and ten villages. The selected farmers were classified into small, medium and large farm-size groups to assess differences in cost structure and economic performance. The cost of cultivation was estimated using standard cost concepts, namely Cost A₁, A₂, B₁, B₂, C₁, C₂ and C₃.

The study revealed that the overall Cost A₁ was Rs. 41,630.39 per hectare, whereas the comprehensive Cost C₃ amounted to Rs. 74,092.68 per hectare. The average main-product yield was 13.25 q/ha, with a by-product yield of 4.42 q/ha. The overall gross return from sole pigeonpea cultivation was Rs. 1,01,535.39 per hectare, and the net return over Cost C₃ was Rs. 27,442.71 per hectare. The overall cost of production was Rs. 5,485.09 per quintal. The input-output ratio remained above unity across all cost concepts, ranging from 2.44 at Cost A₁/A₂ to 1.37 at Cost C₃, indicating the economic viability of pigeonpea cultivation in the study area. Among the farm-size groups, large farmers recorded a comparatively lower cost of production per quintal and a higher input-output ratio at Cost C₃, indicating relatively better economic performance.

The findings suggest that sole pigeonpea cultivation is profitable in the study area; however, efficient management of expenditure on labour, machinery, seed and fertiliser is essential for further improvement in farm profitability. Appropriate extension support, timely availability of quality inputs and improved resource-use practices can contribute to reducing avoidable production costs and enhancing the economic returns from pigeonpea cultivation.

Assessment of Livestock Management Practices among Livestock Farmers in Hamirpur District, Uttar Pradesh, India

Deepalee — 2026-09-14

The present study was conducted to assess the livestock management practices adopted by livestock farmers in Hamirpur district, Uttar Pradesh. A multistage random sampling technique was used to select 200 livestock farmers from ten villages of Rath and Maudaha development blocks. Data were collected through personal interviews using a pre-tested and well-structured interview schedule and analysed using descriptive statistical tools with the help of SPSS software. The findings revealed that the respondents showed higher adoption of housing and sanitation practices than of scientific feeding, health care, and breeding management practices. Most respondents regularly cleaned calf sheds (98.00%), maintained calves on kaccha floors (83.50%), and provided bedding facilities (75.00%). However, the adoption of recommended practices such as timely colostrum feeding (4.00%), deworming (17.00%), veterinary consultation (9.50%), and neonatal calf care (7.50%) was comparatively low. In breeding management, the majority of respondents bred animals at the onset of heat (59.00%), identified bellowing as the major sign of oestrus (66.00%), preferred natural service (57.00%), and practised pregnancy diagnosis (80.50%), whereas only 25.50 per cent of the respondents sought treatment for repeat-breeder animals. The study concludes that strengthening extension services, farmer training programmes, and veterinary support is essential to improve the adoption of scientific livestock management practices, thereby enhancing livestock productivity and the sustainability of livestock farming.

Economics of Processing and Marketing of Gur (Jaggery): A Study of Sugarcane-Based Value Addition in Dabra Block of Gwalior District, Madhya Pradesh, India

Surendra Rundla — 2026-09-14

Jaggery (gur) processing constitutes an important rural agro-based enterprise that adds value to sugarcane, India's principal commercial cash crop; however, the economics of this value chain, from unit-level processing costs to final consumer sales, remain under-examined at the district level. This paper draws on primary data collected from ten randomly selected gur-making units in the Dabra block of Gwalior district, Madhya Pradesh, for the agricultural year 2024-25 to examine (i) the cost structure and profitability of gur processing and (ii) the marketing cost, marketing margin, price spread, marketing efficiency and producer's share in the consumer's rupee across the alternative marketing channels through which gur reaches the final consumer. Cane value was found to constitute roughly three-quarters of the total processing cost, leaving processing units with a thin but positive margin and an overall benefit-cost ratio of 1.25. Two marketing channels were identified for gur: a longer channel routed through a wholesaler and a shorter channel involving direct sale to the retailer. The shorter channel recorded markedly higher marketing efficiency (16.67 versus 12.50) and a higher producer's share (91.25 per cent versus 87.50 per cent), confirming that channel length, through its effect on cumulative marketing costs and margins, is the principal determinant of the producer's share in gur marketing. The paper concludes by recommending improvements in processing efficiency, value addition and branding, and the strengthening of direct, shorter marketing channels for gur.

Genetic Parameters, Character Association and Path Analyses in F₃ Populations of Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek]

Ram Lal Kumawat — 2026-09-14

The study evaluated genetic parameters, character associations, and path coefficients in F₃ populations of mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] grown during kharif 2022 at SKN College of Agriculture, Jobner. Four F₃ populations and their five parents were assessed in a randomised block design with three replications. Twelve traits were recorded, and genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, correlation coefficients, and path coefficients were estimated. Analysis of variance detected significant genotypic differences for all traits except primary branches per plant. Plant height showed high broad-sense heritability together with high genetic advance, indicating the potential importance of additive gene effects for selection. Seed yield per plant had significant positive genotypic and phenotypic correlations with pods per plant, pod length, 100-seed weight, and chlorophyll content. Path coefficient analysis showed that 100-seed weight, plant height, and pods per plant exerted major positive direct effects on seed yield per plant, whereas pod length, pods per cluster, and chlorophyll content showed negative direct effects. The residual effects were 0.1716 at the genotypic level and 0.1971 at the phenotypic level, indicating that the traits included in the analysis accounted for most of the variation in seed yield. These results support selection based on 100-seed weight, plant height, and pods per plant for improving seed yield in the evaluated breeding material.

Foliar Phosphorus and Molybdenum Interventions Modulate Growth Dynamics, Nodulation, and Productivity of Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.)

Gajendra Shakya — 2026-09-15

A field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2025 at the Agronomy Research Farm, School of Advanced Agriculture Sciences and Technology, Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University, Kanpur, to evaluate the response of blackgram (Vigna mungo L., cv. Azad-1) to varying foliar levels of phosphorus (P) and molybdenum (Mo) applied at the pre-flowering stage. The experiment was structured in a Randomised Block Design (RBD) with nine treatment combinations replicated three times: three sole Mo levels (0.25, 0.50, and 0.75 g L⁻¹), three sole P levels (2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 g L⁻¹), and three combined P + Mo sprays. The baseline soil was sandy loam, alkaline (pH 7.9), non-saline (EC 0.38 dS m⁻¹), low in organic carbon (0.27%), low in available nitrogen (83.50 kg ha⁻¹), and low-to-medium in available phosphorus (16.80 kg ha⁻¹). The results demonstrated that the combined foliar application of phosphorus @ 3.5 g L⁻¹ + molybdenum @ 0.75 g L⁻¹ (T9) significantly improved vegetative growth attributes, functional root nodulation (50.2 nodules plant⁻¹ at 50 DAS), dry matter accumulation, and crop growth rate. Yield attributes and productivity peaked under T9 (seed yield 1185 kg ha⁻¹; straw yield 2410 kg ha⁻¹; harvest index 32.96%), which was statistically at par with treatment T8 (P @ 3.0 g L⁻¹ + Mo @ 0.50 g L⁻¹, seed yield 1120 kg ha⁻¹). Total nutrient uptake (N, P, K, and Mo) and post-harvest soil available nitrogen and phosphorus were also maximised under combined treatments. Economic analysis revealed the highest net returns and benefit-cost ratio under T9, followed by T8. Under the conditions of the present study, foliar application of P @ 3.0–3.5 g L⁻¹ in combination with Mo @ 0.50–0.75 g L⁻¹ showed potential for improving blackgram productivity and economic returns in sandy loam soils of Central Uttar Pradesh. However, broader recommendations require further validation under appropriately controlled factorial experiments.

Screening of Rice Genotypes for Resistance Against Brown Planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens): Insights for Sustainable Pest Management

Poulami Bhattacharya — 2026-09-15

Brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens (Stål), is an important insect pest of rice, and host plant resistance offers a sustainable approach to its management. This study evaluated 670 rice genotypes for resistance to BPH under glasshouse conditions at the Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, during 2023–2024. The genotypes were screened together with the resistant check Ptb 33 and susceptible check TN1 using the Standard Seed Box Screening Test and the Standard Evaluation System damage scale. Seedlings were infested with BPH nymphs, and promising entries were re-evaluated to confirm their resistance response. Considerable variation in plant damage scores was observed among the tested genotypes. Six genotypes—R 2551-C10-6-510-1, DR 8102, R 2297-6-1-3-1, Samleshwari, IGKV R 1244, and R2307-73-1-38-1—were classified as highly resistant, with damage scores ranging from 0.50 to 0.93. Fifty-one genotypes were resistant, with scores of 1.00–2.99, while 33 genotypes were moderately resistant, with scores of 3.01–4.91. A further 178 genotypes were moderately susceptible, with scores of 5.00–6.97, whereas 402 genotypes were susceptible or highly susceptible, with scores of 7.13–9.00. The resistant check Ptb 33 recorded a score of 1.38, and TN1 recorded 9.00. The identified highly resistant and resistant genotypes represent promising sources of BPH resistance for further evaluation and possible use in rice resistance-breeding programmes.

Entrepreneurial Behaviour and Economics of Jute Seed Production: A Case Study from Andhra Pradesh, India

B. C. Shiva — 2026-09-16

The study examined entrepreneurial behaviour, production economics and constraints among jute seed producers in Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh, a non-traditional jute seed-growing region. Primary data were collected from 120 producers across 25 villages in five mandals using purposive random sampling. Entrepreneurial behaviour was assessed through a structured, pre-tested interview schedule using a five-point Likert scale, while standard farm-management cost concepts and Garrett ranking were applied to evaluate profitability and production constraints. Quality control recorded the highest entrepreneurial mean score (3.84), followed by customer orientation (3.67), market orientation (3.66), and networking and collaboration (3.59). Risk-taking behaviour (3.09) and technology adoption (3.07) were comparatively weaker. Average jute seed yield was 19.77 quintals per hectare, and gross returns were ₹150,236.80 per hectare. The benefit–cost ratio was 1.63 over Cost A1 and 1.09 over Cost C3, indicating a positive but narrow margin when comprehensive costs were considered. Water scarcity and irrigation limitations ranked as the most severe constraint, followed by climate variability and drought, pest pressure and lack of resilient varieties, and frequent crop failures. The findings indicate that stronger market-facing competencies coexist with constraints in finance, technology adoption and production risk. Strengthening irrigation, institutional support, entrepreneurship development and access to appropriate technologies may support the economic sustainability of jute seed enterprises in the study area.

Growth and Yield Performance of Three Rice Varieties under Organic and Mineral Fertilizer Combinations in Burkina Faso

Aboubacar Coulibaly — 2026-09-16

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the growth and yield performance of three rice varieties under combinations of organic and mineral fertilisers in Burkina Faso and to identify a suitable organo-mineral formulation. A two-factor split-plot experiment with three replications was conducted using Nerica4, FKR84, and FKR60N. Two fertiliser dosages were assessed together with an absolute control. Dosage D1 comprised 9.4 kg of neutral soil, 600 g of organic manure, 4.5 g of NPK, and 3 g of urea, whereas D2 comprised 9.4 kg of neutral soil, 300 g of organic manure, 9 g of NPK, and 6 g of urea. The evaluated traits were production cycle, plant height, number and length of panicles, 1000-grain weight, theoretical paddy yield, and dry biomass. Fertiliser treatments significantly affected several growth- and yield-related traits, with responses varying among varieties and fertiliser combinations. Dosage D1 was associated with favourable production-cycle responses, particularly for the F6NU, F7NU, and F9NU combinations. Organo-mineral treatments also improved plant height and panicle traits, while the F2, F4, and F8 manures and their mineral-fertiliser combinations generally performed well for yield-related responses. Across the two dosages, D2 produced the more favourable paddy-yield response. These findings indicate that rice varietal performance depends on both fertiliser composition and dosage under the experimental conditions, with combined organic and mineral fertilisation showing potential for improving rice productivity. The results can be applied to guide the selection of promising organo-mineral fertiliser combinations and dosages for rice production in Burkina Faso, while field validation is needed before wider recommendation under farmers' conditions.

Time Series and Machine Learning Approaches for Tomato Price Forecasting: Evidence from Major Markets in Karnataka, India

S V Prashanth — 2026-09-16

This study assessed the behaviour and forecasting of monthly modal tomato prices in major markets of Karnataka using statistical and machine-learning approaches. Monthly price series from January 2010 to July 2023 were examined for Bengaluru, Kolar, Chikkaballapura, Srinivaspura, and Chintamani in the descriptive analysis, while forecasting comparisons were conducted for Bengaluru, Kolar, Chikkaballapura, and Srinivaspura. Descriptive diagnostics indicated non-normality, positive skewness, leptokurtosis, and significant autocorrelation, confirming substantial variation in the market price series. The series used for ARIMA modelling were transformed and first-differenced to attain stationarity. The selected ARIMA specifications were ARIMA (1,1,4) for Bengaluru, ARIMA (2,1,3) for Kolar, ARIMA (2,1,3) for Chikkaballapura, and ARIMA (3,1,1) for Srinivaspura. A Random Forest model was also developed from lagged price variables generated through time-delay embedding, with the first six lags used as predictors and an 80:20 training-testing division. Forecast accuracy was evaluated using RMSE, MAE, and MAPE. Random Forest produced lower RMSE and MAE values across all four forecasted markets, whereas ARIMA yielded lower MAPE values in Kolar, Chikkaballapura, and Srinivaspura. The comparison therefore demonstrates that model performance varies according to the selected forecast-error measure. The findings indicate that the two modelling approaches provide complementary evidence for forecasting volatile tomato prices across the selected Karnataka markets.

Flower and Seed Size Effects on Cyclamen persicum Germination, Tuberization, Rooting, and Seedling Health

Aysun Cavusoglu — 2026-09-17

Cyclamen persicum Mill. is an important ornamental potted species for which reliable seedling establishment is essential to commercial production. This study evaluated the effects of contrasting flower-associated seed sizes on germination, tuber formation, root development, and seedling health under controlled Petri-dish conditions. Two groups were compared: large seeds obtained from a small-flowered cultivar and small seeds obtained from a large-flowered cultivar. Four replicates of 12 seeds per group were monitored weekly for eight weeks. Germination was defined by hypocotyl emergence, while visible tuber and root development were recorded weekly; seedling health was scored at week 8 on a five-point scale. By week 8, germination reached 37.5% in large seeds and 68.8% in small seeds, with the difference becoming significant from week 5 onwards. Tuber development also favoured small seeds, reaching 58.4% compared with 37.5% in large seeds by week 8. Root development was higher in small seeds (52.1% versus 33.3% at week 8), although the difference was not statistically significant. In contrast, seedlings from large seeds had a higher mean health score than those from small seeds (3.5 versus 2.3). These findings indicate that seed size was associated with different early developmental responses: small seeds showed higher germination and tuber-development rates, whereas large seeds produced healthier seedlings under the conditions tested.

Dynamics of Soil Nutrients under the Agroforestry Ecosystem in Telangana State, India

Ili Venkatesh — 2026-09-17

Agroforestry systems play an important role in maintaining soil fertility through continuous organic matter inputs and nutrient recycling. The present study was conducted to assess changes in soil nutrient availability in selected agroforestry ecosystems of Telangana State between May 2023 and April 2024. Five agroforestry locations comprising teak (Tectona grandis L. f.) + citrus, teak + mango, and teak + guava systems were evaluated. Soil samples collected from 0–30 cm depth were analysed for available macronutrients (N, P and K), micronutrients (Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, B and Mo), and humic and fulvic acids using standard analytical procedures. Differences between the two sampling periods were assessed using a paired t-test. The mean available N, P and K contents increased significantly from 241, 34.3 and 363 kg ha⁻¹, respectively, in May 2023 to 273, 36.7 and 375 kg ha⁻¹ in April 2024. Similarly, the mean concentrations of Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, B and Mo increased from 3.58, 2.37, 7.34, 1.31, 0.45 and 0.32 mg kg⁻¹ to 3.67, 2.46, 7.54, 1.44, 0.50 and 0.35 mg kg⁻¹, respectively. Humic acid content increased from 1.31 to 1.34 g kg⁻¹, while fulvic acid increased from 0.96 to 0.99 g kg⁻¹ during the study period. Kandlapalli consistently recorded the highest concentrations of most nutrients and humic substances, whereas Rajendranagar generally recorded the lowest micronutrient concentrations. The observed increases in nutrient availability and humic substances may be associated with continuous organic residue inputs, leaf litter decomposition, microbial activity, and nutrient recycling within the agroforestry systems. The findings indicate that sustained organic matter inputs under agroforestry systems can contribute to improved soil nutrient availability and the accumulation of humified organic matter over time.

Screening of Edible Turmeric Cultivars for Resistance to Root-knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita

Pranjal Pratim Neog — 2026-09-18

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is an economically important spice crop, but its production is constrained by root-knot nematodes, particularly Meloidogyne incognita. The use of resistant cultivars provides an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach to nematode management; however, cultivar-specific information on resistance remains limited. The study aimed to identify a source of resistance to the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, among different turmeric cultivars. The experiment was conducted in the nursery of the Plantation Crop Garden, Biswanath College of Agriculture, AAU, Biswanath Chariali, Assam, during the kharif season of 2025 and was laid out in a completely randomised design. Plastic pots with a capacity of 2,000 cc were filled with a sterilised soil, sand and cow dung mixture in a 2:1:1 ratio. A single rhizome, bearing one or two healthy buds and weighing approximately 5 g, from each of the six turmeric cultivars was planted in an individual pot. The pots were arranged in a completely randomised design, with five replications per cultivar. One month after planting, each plant was inoculated with freshly hatched second-stage juveniles (J2) of Meloidogyne incognita at a density of 1 J2 per cc of soil. Two months following inoculation, the plants were carefully uprooted, and the numbers of galls and egg masses per root system were recorded. Average temperature, relative humidity and bright sunshine hours were recorded during the experimental period. Observations made two months after inoculation showed that the average number of galls per root system exceeded 31 in all the cultivars, viz., Tall Clone, Megha Turmeric, Black Turmeric, Lacadong, Local-1 and Local-2. Hence, the cultivars were categorised as susceptible based on the root-knot index. The root-knot index ranged from 3.4 to 4.0. From this experiment, it was concluded that none of the cultivars was resistant to the root-knot nematode. In the absence of resistant and moderately resistant cultivars, other eco-friendly nematode management methods may be adopted for the management of root-knot nematode in turmeric cultivation.

Analytical Synthesis and Simulation-Based Kinematic Analysis of a Crank–Rocker Mechanism for Cutter bar Drives

Sanchu Sukumaran — 2026-09-18

Aims: To synthesise the dimensions of a crank–rocker mechanism for driving the cutter bar of a crop harvesting machine using Freudenstein's equation, evaluate the kinematic characteristics of the mechanism, and validate the analytical results through SolidWorks Motion Analysis.

Study Design: The study involved an engineering design approach combined with analytical kinematic analysis and computer-based simulation to validate the developed mechanism.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, Kelappaji College of Agricultural Engineering and Food Technology, Tavanur, Malappuram, Kerala Agricultural University, from January 2026 to March 2026.

Methodology: A four-bar crank–rocker mechanism was designed to generate the reciprocating motion required to achieve a 76.2 mm stroke of the cutter bar using Freudenstein's equation. The synthesised linkage was subsequently checked using Grashof's criterion to ensure continuous rotation of the input crank, and the kinematic behaviour of the mechanism was analysed. A three-dimensional model of the mechanism was then developed in SolidWorks, and Motion Analysis was performed. The kinematic results from analytical calculations and simulation were compared for validation.

Results: The synthesised linkage satisfied Grashof's criterion, confirming that the selected mechanism could operate as a crank–rocker mechanism with continuous rotation of the input crank. The analytical model predicted a cutter-bar stroke of 74.68 mm, whereas the SolidWorks Motion Analysis produced a stroke of 75.89 mm. The difference between the two values was 1.21 mm. The maximum cutter-bar velocity obtained analytically was 2.92 m/s, compared with 2.64 m/s from the simulation. The maximum acceleration predicted by the analytical model was 207.68 m/s², while the corresponding simulated value was 206.48 m/s², with a difference of only 0.58%. The transmission angle varied from 48.81° to 66.75° during one complete revolution of the crank, indicating suitable transmission of motion and force from the coupler to the rocker throughout the operating cycle.

Conclusion: The close agreement between the analytical and SolidWorks simulation results confirms the validity of the developed kinematic model for the crank–rocker cutter-bar mechanism. The results demonstrate that the proposed mechanism is suitable for driving the cutter bar of a crop harvesting machine and provide a useful basis for further dynamic analysis and prototype development.

Response of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) to Type of Rhizome and Planting Schedule under Varied Harvesting Schedules

Halesha P — 2026-09-18

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) productivity, quality, and profitability may respond to planting time, propagule type, and crop duration. This field experiment was conducted during the 2022 turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) cropping season (April-December) at Bhadiarkar Research Farm, CSKHPKV, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three planting schedules (first fortnight of April, second fortnight of April, and first fortnight of May) and two types of rhizomes (mother rhizome and primary rhizome) as the main-plot factors, and three harvesting schedules (195, 210, and 225 DAP) as the subplot factor. Experimental data revealed that planting turmeric in the first fortnight of April significantly improved yield-attributing characteristics, fresh rhizome yield (168.4 q ha^-1), dry rhizome yield (36.4 q ha^-1), haulm yield (20.9 q ha^-1), protein content (7.98 %) in the rhizome, and economic parameters. However, no significant influence on curcumin content was observed. Among the rhizome types, the mother rhizome recorded significantly higher yield-attributing characteristics, fresh rhizome yield (157.1 q ha^-1), dry rhizome yield (34.0 q ha^-1), haulm yield (19.6 q ha^-1), curcumin content (3.27 %), protein content (7.94 %) in the rhizome, and economic parameters. Moreover, harvesting turmeric at 225 DAP recorded significantly better yield-attributing characteristics, fresh rhizome yield (159.8 q ha^-1), dry rhizome yield (34.7 q ha^-1), haulm yield (19.9 q ha^-1), curcumin content (3.21 %), protein content (7.97 %) in the rhizome, and economic parameters. Hence, farmers in the mid-hills of Himachal Pradesh are advised to plant turmeric in the first fortnight of April using mother rhizomes and harvest it at 225 DAP for maximum returns.

Preventive and Post-Symptom Fungicide Programs Suppress Cumulative Foliar Disease in Rubber Tree Nursery Plants in Côte d’Ivoire

Eric-Olivier TIENEBO — 2026-09-18

Foliar diseases constrain the production of healthy rubber tree planting material in humid tropical nurseries. We tested whether preventive and post-symptom fungicide programmes reduced cumulative foliar disease on Hevea brasiliensis clone IRCA 331 during one nursery season at Bongo, Côte d’Ivoire. The present study analysed two fungicide trials conducted in a rubber nursery at Bongo, southeastern Côte d’Ivoire. Every active programme reduced cumulative incidence relative to the untreated control (all Holm-adjusted P < 0.001): suppression was 75.3–94.1% in the preventive trial and 88.2–93.6% in the post-symptom trial. Severity on the older first leaf tier did not differ among treatments, whereas severity on newly emerged foliage declined by 60.2–88.9% and 86.4–91.9%, respectively (all Holm-adjusted P < 0.001). Treatment effects on cumulative incidence and new-foliage severity were large (partial eta-squared ≥ 0.864). Tukey-adjusted comparisons identified overlapping efficacy groups among many active programmes; therefore, the smallest numerical estimate did not establish a uniquely superior programme. Adding a spray adjuvant produced no consistent detectable improvement in cumulative disease control. These findings demonstrate strong disease suppression under the tested site, season, and clone, but do not establish broad recommendations or non-inferiority of lower-input programmes. Multi-season, multi-location trials with molecular pathogen confirmation, complete weather and application records, and prespecified agronomic margins are required before operational recommendations are generalised.

Assessment of Integrated Nutrient Management Strategies in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Grown in Central India

Sumit Kumar Singh — 2026-09-19

A field experiment was conducted during the rabi seasons of 2022–23 and 2023–24 at the Agricultural Research Farm, Rabindranath Tagore University, Raisen, Madhya Pradesh, to assess the effect of integrated nutrient management (INM) on the growth and yield attributes of wheat under Central Indian conditions. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the effects of different integrated nutrient management practices involving varying fertiliser levels, applied alone or in combination with FYM, zinc sulphate, and biofertilisers, on the growth and yield attributes of wheat. The experiment comprised eleven nutrient management treatments with different levels of the recommended dose of fertilisers (RDF), applied alone or in combination with farmyard manure (FYM), zinc sulphate (ZnSO₄), and biofertilisers (Azotobacter + phosphate-solubilising bacteria), in a randomised block design with three replications. Pooled analysis indicated that INM significantly improved crop growth and yield attributes over the sole application of inorganic fertilisers. Among the treatments, 100% RDF + Azotobacter + PSB inoculation (T₉) recorded the highest dry matter accumulation at harvest (1282.92 g m⁻²), plant height (103.20 cm), tillers at harvest (361 m⁻²), effective tillers (406 m⁻²), spike length (10.40 cm), grains per spike (44.76), and grain weight per spike (1.67 g), together with a test weight of 41.95 g. The 100% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha⁻¹ treatment (T₇) also performed strongly and recorded the highest numerical test weight (42.02 g), which was statistically at par with T₉. In contrast, the control treatment consistently recorded the lowest values for the measured parameters. These results indicate that 100% RDF combined with Azotobacter + PSB inoculation or FYM @ 5 t ha⁻¹ may be useful INM options for improving wheat performance under the agro-climatic conditions of Central India.

Optimizing Nitrogen Use for Sustainable Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) Production through Integrated Nutrient Management

Sumona Chetia — 2026-09-21

A field experiment was conducted from November 2021 to March 2022 at the Experimental Farm of the Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic Crops, Faculty of Horticulture, Uttar Banga Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, to evaluate the effect of integrated nitrogen management on the growth, quality, and post-harvest soil nitrogen status of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). The experiment was laid out in a randomised block design (RBD) with eight treatments and three replications. Different combinations of inorganic nitrogen, farmyard manure (FYM), poultry manure (PM), and recommended phosphorus and potassium (PK) fertilisers were evaluated. Among the treatments, the application of 50% nitrogen through inorganic fertiliser and 50% through FYM, along with the recommended PK, significantly improved fresh and dry matter accumulation at different growth stages. The same treatment also recorded the highest protein content (19.00%) and total nitrogen content in seeds (3.04%). Essential oil content, moisture content, and nitrogen content in plants did not differ significantly among the treatments. The highest available soil nitrogen after harvest (154.38 kg ha⁻¹) was also recorded under the treatment comprising 50% inorganic nitrogen + 50% FYM along with the recommended PK. The results suggested that the integrated application of inorganic nitrogen and FYM was an effective nutrient management strategy for improving crop growth, seed quality, and soil nitrogen availability in coriander.

Assessment of Genetic Variability for Yield and Related Traits in Newly Developed Normal Maize (Zea mays L.) Inbreds

Aman Mishra — 2026-09-21

Genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance are important parameters for identifying traits and inbred lines suitable for selection in maize (Zea mays L.) breeding. The present investigation assessed 30 normal maize inbred lines, including two standard checks, during kharif 2024 at Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. The experiment was conducted in a randomised complete block design with three replications, and 12 agro-morphological traits were evaluated. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the inbred lines for all traits, indicating substantial variability in the experimental material. Cob length exhibited high phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation, whereas moderate estimates were recorded for cob girth, number of kernel rows/ cob, number of kernels/ row, 100-kernel weight and grain yield/ plant. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean was observed for cob length, cob girth, number of kernel rows/ cob, number of kernels/ row, 100-kernel weight and grain yield/ plant, indicating greater scope for improvement through selection. The phenotypic coefficient of variation was slightly higher than the corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation for all traits, suggesting some environmental influence on trait expression. Based on mean performance, KDM 323, IML 5, CML 442, CML 138 and BML 7 were superior to the best check for grain yield/ plant. These inbred lines may be useful as parental material in future maize breeding programmes.

Economic Analysis of Machine and Hand Transplanted Paddy Cultivation in Thiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu: Evidence from Cost, Resource Use Efficiency and Decomposition Analysis

M. Tamilarasu — 2026-09-21

The present study evaluated the comparative economics of machine-transplanted and hand-transplanted paddy cultivation in Thiruvarur district, one of the major rice-producing districts of the Cauvery Delta region of Tamil Nadu. Primary data were collected from 60 sample farmers using a multistage random sampling technique, comprising 30 machine-transplanted and 30 hand-transplanted farms. Cost concepts recommended by the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) were employed to estimate cultivation costs and profitability. Resource-use efficiency was analysed using the Cobb–Douglas production function, while decomposition analysis was used to quantify the contribution of technological change and input-use changes to productivity differences. Partial budgeting was employed to estimate the economic advantage of mechanised transplanting. The results revealed that machine transplanting significantly reduced total cultivation costs while increasing grain yield, net returns and the benefit–cost ratio compared with conventional hand transplanting. Machine-transplanted farms recorded a Cost C3 of ₹35,047.60 per acre compared with ₹43,779.74 per acre under hand transplanting. Net income and returns per rupee invested were substantially higher under mechanised cultivation. The decomposition analysis indicated that technical change contributed 48.08% of the productivity improvement, while changes in input use accounted for 42.65%. Machine labour emerged as the most influential contributor to increased output. Partial budgeting further demonstrated a net economic gain of ₹11,068.30 per acre from adopting machine transplanting. Nevertheless, constraints such as limited machine availability during peak seasons, a shortage of skilled operators, and transportation difficulties continue to impede wider adoption. The study concluded that machine transplanting represents an economically viable and resource-efficient technology capable of enhancing farm profitability and addressing labour shortages in paddy cultivation. Policy measures focusing on expanding custom hiring centres, improving machinery accessibility, strengthening operator training programmes, and promoting cooperative ownership models could accelerate mechanisation and contribute to sustainable rice production in the Cauvery Delta region.

Spatial and Temporal Analysis of Rice Yield Using the DSSAT Model in the Kommamuru Canal Command Area, Guntur (Dist), Andhra Pradesh, India

Rana Prathap — 2026-09-22

Rice is the predominant crop cultivated in the Kommamuru Canal Command Area of Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh. Rice productivity is strongly influenced by irrigation water availability and climatic conditions. The present study aimed to analyse the spatial and temporal variability of rice productivity using the DSSAT-CERES Rice model integrated with Sentinel-2 remote sensing data during the kharif seasons of 2022, 2023 and 2024. Rice-cultivated areas were mapped using multi-temporal Sentinel-2 imagery, while weather, soil, crop management and cultivar data were used as inputs for DSSAT simulations. The model was calibrated and validated using field observations and yield data collected from representative locations within the command area. Simulated rice yields showed considerable variation among mandals and across years, ranging from 1,560.58 to 4,111.06 kg ha⁻¹. The highest productivity was observed in 2024 due to favourable rainfall distribution, adequate canal water supply and improved crop growth conditions, whereas relatively lower productivity was recorded in 2023 owing to moisture stress and irregular irrigation availability. Spatial yield maps generated through the integration of DSSAT outputs and GIS-based rice maps identified high- and low-productivity zones across the command area. The study demonstrated the usefulness of combining crop simulation modelling and remote sensing techniques for rice yield assessment, irrigation planning, yield forecasting and sustainable water resource management in canal command areas. The study confirmed that the DSSAT-CERES Rice model effectively simulated rice productivity in the Kommamuru Canal Command Area during 2022-2024. Overall, the study provides a reliable framework for sustainable rice production and efficient water management in canal command areas and can be applied for future agricultural planning and decision-making. The validation results showed low percentage deviation values ranging from 0.94% to 4.39%, indicating good agreement between simulated and actual farmer yields. Low percentage deviation values between simulated and actual yields indicated good model accuracy and reliability for yield prediction. The integration of DSSAT, GIS and remote sensing techniques was useful for sustainable rice production planning and efficient irrigation management.

Farm and Non-Farm Livelihood Activities: Socioeconomic Profile, Perceived Benefits and Constraints among Rural Households in Zunheboto District, Nagaland, North-Eastern India

Nikali S. Swu — 2026-09-23

The present study examined the socioeconomic characteristics, perceived benefits, major constraints and suggestions for strengthening rural livelihoods among rural households in Zunheboto district, Nagaland, India. The study was conducted in the Ghathashi and Akuhaito blocks, from which three villages were selected in each block, with 15 respondents selected from each village, resulting in a total sample of 90 respondents. Primary data were collected through personal interviews using a structured interview schedule and analysed using frequencies and percentages. The findings revealed that the majority of respondents were above 50 years of age (58.88%), married (83.33%), members of nuclear families (94.44%), male (83.33%), and literate (91.11%). Small landholdings were predominant (46.67%), while semi-pucca houses were the most common type of dwelling (60.00%). Respondents perceived non-farm activities positively, particularly in terms of employment generation (91.11%) and income diversification (77.78%). However, lack of finance (77.78%), marketing problems (67.78%), and road inaccessibility (51.11%) were identified as the major constraints to non-farm activities. For farm activities, low remuneration (74.44%), lack of proper storage (70.00%), and the difficult nature of farming (65.56%) were the major problems reported. The main suggestions included providing financial support, training, awareness programmes, and better linkages with government schemes and banks.

Efficacy of Insecticides and Biopesticides against Rhopalosiphum maidis (Fitch) and their Toxicity to the Predatory Coccinellid, Coccinella septempunctata L.

Anuj Kalaramna — 2026-09-23

The wheat aphid, Rhopalosiphum maidis, is an important sap-feeding insect-pest that adversely affects wheat growth and productivity. Although synthetic insecticides provide rapid aphid suppression, their adverse effects on predators necessitate the evaluation of comparatively safer pest-management options. The present study evaluated the efficacy of selected insecticides and biopesticides against R. maidis using a leaf-dip bioassay at recommended doses. Subsequently, their toxicity to the predatory coccinellid, Coccinella septempunctata (adults and fourth-instar grubs), was assessed using an atomisation method under laboratory conditions at the recommended and twice the recommended field doses. Thiamethoxam was the fastest-acting treatment against R. maidis, resulting in 66.00, 80.00 and 91.00% population reduction at 12, 18 and 24 hours after treatment (HAT), respectively, and complete reduction after 48 HAT. Quinalphos resulted in 48.75, 61.25 and 93.75% reduction at the corresponding intervals and achieved complete reduction after 72 HAT. Among the biopesticides, B. bassiana was the most effective, resulting in 21% reduction at 72 HAT. In contrast, quinalphos and thiamethoxam caused substantial mortality of C. septempunctata adults and fourth-instar grubs. However, biopesticides caused considerably lower mortality, while Neemastra caused no mortality of predators. The findings indicate that B. bassiana offers potential for inclusion in integrated management of R. maidis, particularly where conservation of coccinellid predators is a priority. Further field studies are required to validate its efficacy and compatibility with other integrated pest management (IPM) components.

Effects of Seed Priming on Seedling Growth, Vigour, and Protein Content in Field Pea (Pisum sativum L.)

Ravisankar Dubey — 2026-09-24

Seed priming can improve early seed performance, but responses may differ among priming agents and genotypes. This study evaluated two field-pea varieties, KPMR-522 (V1) and Rachana (V2), under six seed treatments: T1, untreated control; T2, hydropriming; T3, KNO₃ at 3%; T4, GA₃ at 0.01%; T5, NAA at 0.01%; and T6, Panchagavya at 5%. The experiment was conducted during the 2023-24 and 2024-25 rabi seasons using a 2 × 6 factorial completely randomised design with four replications. Root length, shoot length, seedling length, seedling dry weight, seedling vigour indices I and II, and seed protein content were evaluated. In the pooled analysis, the highest root length (16.31 cm), seedling dry weight (0.251 g), and protein content (26.28%) occurred with GA₃ at 0.01%. KNO₃ at 3% produced the highest seedling length (29.94 cm) and seedling vigour index I (2831.62). Panchagavya at 5% produced the highest shoot length (14.80 cm) and seedling vigour index II (23.46); for these traits, its pooled response was statistically comparable with KNO₃ for shoot length and with KNO₃ and GA₃ for vigour index II. Significant variety × treatment interactions were observed, demonstrating that treatment responses depended on genotype. Under the conditions tested, KNO₃, GA₃, and Panchagavya showed complementary advantages for different seedling and seed-quality traits; broader validation across seed lots and environments is required before general agronomic recommendations are made.

Transforming Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L) Cultivation through Improved Production Technologies: Evidence from Cluster Frontline Demonstrations

Arvind Preet Kaur — 2026-09-25

Cluster Frontline Demonstrations (CFLDs) were conducted during seven consecutive Rabi seasons from 2016–17 to 2022–23 to assess the effectiveness of improved chickpea production technologies under farmers’ field conditions. A total of 344 demonstrations covering 137.2 ha were conducted using improved chickpea varieties PBG-7 and PBG-8 along with an integrated package of recommended production practices. The technological-gap analysis revealed complete gaps in varietal replacement, sowing method, sowing time, seed treatment, nutritional quality improvement, insect-pest management and disease management, while land preparation showed no gap. The demonstrated technology resulted in consistently higher grain yield than farmers’ prevailing practices. The mean grain yield under demonstrations was 18.63 q/ha compared with 14.06 q/ha under farmers’ practice, representing a mean yield increase of 32.5% and an extension gap of 4.58 q/ha. The technology gap decreased from 3.15 q/ha in 2016–17 to 1.50 q/ha in 2022–23, while the technology index declined from 15.0 to 7.06%, indicating improved feasibility and field realization of the demonstrated technology over time. Economic analysis also demonstrated the superiority of the improved technology, with a pooled benefit:cost ratio of 4.54 compared with 3.60 under farmers’ practice. The integrated technology substantially reduced Fusarium wilt incidence, with pooled disease incidence of 14.63% and 11.49% at the seedling and maturity stages, respectively, compared with 18.45% and 14.59% under farmers’ practice. Total wilting was reduced from 33.03% to 26.08%. Similarly, Helicoverpa armigera pod infestation was reduced from 20.47% under farmers’ practice to 11.02% under demonstrations, representing a 46.2% reduction. The findings demonstrate that CFLDs based on improved varieties and integrated crop-management practices can effectively narrow technology and extension gaps, enhance chickpea productivity and profitability, and reduce major pest and disease constraints under farmers’ field conditions. Strengthening dissemination and adoption of the demonstrated technology may therefore contribute substantially to sustainable improvement in chickpea production.

Comparative Effects of Poultry Manure and NPK Fertilizer under Plastic Mulch on Plant-Parasitic Nematodes and Yield of Two Cucumber Varieties

M. C. Amadi — 2026-09-25

Plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs), particularly Meloidogyne spp., severely constrain cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) production in tropical regions, causing substantial yield losses. The use of synthetic nematicides is constrained by environmental concerns, resistance, and regulatory limitations, necessitating integrated, low-toxicity alternatives. This study compared the effects of poultry manure and NPK fertiliser under plastic mulch on plant-parasitic nematodes and the yield of two cucumber varieties. A completely randomised block design was employed with three treatments: plastic mulch + NPK fertiliser, plastic mulch + poultry waste, and plastic mulch only (control), each replicated three times. Two cucumber varieties (African Giant F1 and Smart F1) were assessed over one cropping cycle. Parameters measured included baseline and post-planting soil and root nematode densities, soil physicochemical properties, growth traits, and yield components. Pre-planting sampling recovered 294 PPNs from 15 genera (density 29.40 per 10 g soil), with Meloidogyne spp. being dominant (17.69%). Poultry waste contained significantly higher nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, moisture, and electrical conductivity than the experimental soil (p < 0.001). Post-planting, both enrichment treatments reduced soil and root nematode populations relative to the mulch-only control, with poultry waste generally producing the strongest growth and yield responses. Meloidogyne spp. remained the most abundant genus, followed by Scutellonema spp. Poultry waste produced the highest plant heights, stem girths, fruit set, fruit length, and fruit weight in both varieties. Plant-parasitic index (PPI) values indicated that communities were dominated by c-p 3 taxa, typical of moderately disturbed agricultural soils. Within the plastic-mulched production system evaluated, the enrichment treatments were associated with lower nematode abundance than the mulch-only control, while poultry waste generally produced the highest growth and yield measurements. Because no unmulched treatment and no cost-benefit analysis were included, the independent effect of plastic mulch and the economic superiority of the treatments cannot be determined from this study.

Antifungal Potential of Selected Wild Plant Extracts against Curvularia soli: An In-vitro Evaluation

Ranjana Juwantha — 2026-09-25

Fungal diseases can reduce the productivity and value of bamboo and other plant resources, creating interest in plant-derived antifungal agents as alternatives to synthetic fungicides. This study evaluated the in vitro antifungal activity of methanolic leaf extracts of Alangium chinense, Justicia gendarussa, Brugmansia suaveolens, Lantana camara, and Calotropis procera against Curvularia soli associated with bamboo leaf spot. Leaf extracts were prepared by Soxhlet extraction with methanol and incorporated into potato dextrose agar at 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.00, 1.50, and 2.00%. Antifungal activity was assessed using the poisoned food technique, with mycelial growth and percentage inhibition measured after incubation at 25 ± 1 °C for 12 days. Thirty-six treatment combinations, each with three replications, were analysed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's HSD test. All five botanical extracts reduced mycelial growth in a concentration-dependent manner. Alangium chinense was the most effective, producing 99.48% inhibition at 0.50% and complete inhibition from 0.75% onwards. Justicia gendarussa and Calotropis procera also achieved complete inhibition at 0.75%, while Lantana camara and Brugmansia suaveolens required 1.00% and 1.50%, respectively, for complete suppression. Overall treatment effects were significant for both mycelial growth and inhibition (p < 0.001). These findings indicate that the tested methanolic plant extracts, particularly Alangium chinense, warrant further greenhouse, field, phytochemical, and phytotoxicity evaluation before practical application.

Studies to Estimate Expected Genetic Advance in Seven Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Crosses

Elias Jeke — 2026-09-26

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a staple food for more than half of the world’s population, and enhancing its yield, grain quality, and adaptability remains a central goal in most breeding programs. Genetic advance is the expected improvement in the mean performance of a population from one generation to the next as a result of selection and is a fundamental indicator of breeding progress. This study was conducted to estimate expected genetic advance in four key rice traits from backcross populations, together with F3 progenies and their parents. The experiment was conducted at Lifuwu Agricultural Research Station, which is located 8.5 km off Senga Bay Road and lies at an altitude of 500 m above sea level (masl). A total of 22 plant materials were evaluated during the 2025/2026 rainy season, comprising seven BC1F2 populations, eight F3 progenies, and seven parental lines. The backcross populations were developed during the 2024/2025 rainy season by crossing F2 populations with the recurrent parents, producing BC1F1 generations. These were selfed and multiplied during the 2025 irrigated season to generate BC1F2 populations, which were used in the current study. Trials were established to assess genetic advance in yield, plant height, days to maturity, and grain quality. The experiment was conducted using a Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Each plot measured 5 m × 0.4 m, with a row spacing of 20 cm and a plant-to-plant spacing of 20 cm within the rows. The study provides insights into the effectiveness of backcrossing for accelerating trait improvement in rice breeding programmes in Malawi.

Soil Moisture Dynamics, Bulk Density, and Economic Water Productivity of Wheat as Influenced by Irrigation Scheduling and Hydrogel Application

Dade Cholavardan — 2026-09-28

Aims: To evaluate the effects of irrigation scheduling and hydrogel application on soil moisture dynamics, soil bulk density, economics and economic water productivity of wheat.

Study Design: A field experiment was conducted in a split-plot design with three replications; the irrigation schedule was the main-plot factor, and hydrogel treatment was the sub-plot factor.

Place and Duration of Study: Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur, Bihar, India, during the winter (Rabi) season of 2020-21.

Methodology: Three irrigation schedules (I₁: one irrigation at CRI; I₂: two irrigations at CRI and boot leaf stage; I₃: three irrigations at CRI, late jointing and milking stage) were combined with four hydrogel treatments (Eco Sarovar, Vedic, Vaaridhar G1, Nano) and an untreated control. Soil moisture content was measured by time-domain reflectometry before and after each irrigation event; bulk density was measured before sowing and after harvest; and cultivation cost, gross and net returns, benefit:cost ratio, and economic water productivity (EWP) were computed from input costs and prevailing market prices.

Results: Each irrigation produced a sharp rise in soil moisture followed by progressive depletion. Nano hydrogel sustained the highest soil moisture content at every stage, with moisture depleting 26-30% more slowly than in the control; under one irrigation, it retained more harvest-stage moisture (18.95%) than the control retained under two irrigations (13.24%). Nano hydrogel reduced post-harvest bulk density to 1.406 g cm^-3 compared with 1.424 g cm^-3 in the control, with a correlation of r = -0.93 between residual moisture and bulk density. Three irrigations gave the highest gross return (Rs 100,990 ha^-1) and net return (Rs 58,082 ha^-1); Nano hydrogel gave the highest gross and net returns among sub-plot treatments, but EWP declined with irrigation frequency (56.07 to 26.89 Rs m^-3) and was highest under Vedic hydrogel among the cost-efficient treatments.

Conclusion: Hydrogel amendment, particularly Nano hydrogel, improves soil moisture retention, soil structure and economic returns from wheat, while Vedic hydrogel offers the most favourable return per unit of investment.

Economics of Farmer Producer Organisations: Collective Action, Market Power and Smallholder Transformation

Manish Kanwat — 2026-09-29

Farmer producer organisations, a category that includes marketing and service cooperatives, farmer groups and the producer companies promoted in India, have become a central instrument of agricultural development policy. They are expected to reduce transaction costs, pool output, strengthen the bargaining position of smallholders, ease access to finance, inputs and technology, and connect small farms to more demanding value chains. Public investment in these organisations has expanded faster than the evidence on whether, for whom and under what organisational conditions they deliver these outcomes. This critical narrative review examines the economic logic and empirical record of farmer producer organisations, with particular attention to collective action problems, the market power they can realistically exercise and their contribution to smallholder transformation. Peer-reviewed literature and authoritative institutional sources were identified through structured searches of multidisciplinary and economics-oriented scholarly indexes, supplemented by backward and forward citation tracking, and were appraised for identification strategy, representativeness and relevance. The synthesis shows that average member effects on income, technology adoption and technical efficiency are usually positive in observational studies, but these estimates rest heavily on selection-on-observables designs and cross-sectional data. Price gains from collective marketing are typically modest, whereas gains through input access, information, quality upgrading and reduced transaction costs appear more consistent. Membership and benefits are frequently skewed towards better-endowed farmers, and several studies find that the largest potential gains accrue to smallholders who are least likely to join. Side-selling, weak member commitment, heterogeneous preferences and chronic under-capitalisation constrain organisational viability. The Indian producer company model illustrates both the promise of a hybrid legal form and the risks of promotion-led expansion, with rapid registration accompanied by thin capitalisation and uncertain survival. The review concludes that farmer producer organisations are best understood as conditional institutional intermediaries rather than as a generic route to countervailing market power. Priorities include longitudinal and experimental evaluation, organisation-level financial data, explicit analysis of distributional effects and research on governance designs that sustain member commitment without excluding the poorest producers.

A Field Study on Foraging Speed of Apis mellifera and Apis florea on Nine Cultivars of Brassica

Braj Kishor Prasad Singh — 2026-09-30

Honey bees are important pollinators of Brassica crops, and their foraging behaviour can vary among bee species and crop cultivars. However, comparative field information on the time spent per flower by Apis mellifera and Apis florea across different Brassica cultivars under local field conditions remains limited. Understanding such variation is important for characterising bee–cultivar interactions associated with pollination. The study addresses an important aspect of pollination ecology by comparing the foraging speed of Apis mellifera and Apis florea on nine cultivars of Brassica. The crops were grown in 2 m x 4 m agricultural field plots following locally recommended agronomic practices at Mushari Block, Muzaffarpur district, Bihar, India. Fieldwork was conducted over two consecutive rabi seasons, 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, and the data were analysed using a factorial randomised block design with three replications at the University Department of Zoology, B. R. A. Bihar University, Muzaffarpur. The crops were sown on 1 November in each experimental year, and data were collected from 21 December to 18 January at weekly intervals using a chronometer (stopwatch) with an accuracy of 0.01 second. The treatments were compared at the 5% level of significance. The observations suggested that, within the three crop groups, both A. mellifera and A. florea spent the maximum time on cv. Varuna of Brassica juncea var. Raya, cv. Panchali of Brassica campestris var. Toria, and cv. Jhumka of Brassica campestris var. Sarson, whereas the corresponding minimum times were recorded on cv. Pusabold of B. juncea var. Raya, cv. T-9 of B. campestris var. Toria, and cv. Rajendra Sarson-1 of B. campestris var. Sarson. The study provides valuable insights essential for enhancing agricultural productivity and crop pollination. Field observations over two consecutive years provide important information on cultivar attractiveness.

Natural Infection of Chaya (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius) by African Cassava Mosaic Virus in Burkina Faso

Traoré Salimata — 2026-09-30

Aims: To identify and characterise at the molecular level the virus associated with mosaic and leaf-deformation symptoms in chaya (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius) in Burkina Faso.

Study Design: Descriptive field surveillance and laboratory-based molecular characterisation.

Place and Duration of Study: Symptomatic plants were sampled in residential compounds and a home garden in Bobo-Dioulasso and Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, between 2023 and 2026.

Methodology: Five symptomatic leaf samples were collected. Total DNA was tested by polymerase chain reaction using broad-range begomovirus primers and African cassava mosaic virus-specific primers. Amplicons were bidirectionally Sanger sequenced, assembled into 965-nucleotide consensus sequences, and queried against GenBank. Comparative analyses of the complete 777-nucleotide coat protein coding region included pairwise nucleotide identity estimation, principal component analysis of nucleotide composition, and maximum-likelihood phylogenetic reconstruction.

Results: All five samples yielded the expected approximately 900-base-pair begomovirus and 783-base-pair African cassava mosaic virus-specific products. Their coat protein sequences shared 99.5%–100% nucleotide identity with one another and 97.8%–99.5% with African cassava mosaic virus references. Principal component analysis grouped the five sequences closely with Burkina Faso reference isolates; the first two components explained 86.7% of the variation. Phylogenetic analysis placed all five sequences within the African cassava mosaic virus clade with 98% bootstrap support.

Conclusion: This study provides the first molecular evidence of African cassava mosaic virus associated with chaya in Burkina Faso. Chaya may represent an alternative host, although its currently limited cultivation suggests low epidemiological importance. Surveillance and propagation using virus-free cuttings are advisable.

Behaviour of Market Arrivals and Prices of Garlic in Gujarat, India

K. N. Nikhil — 2026-10-03

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is an important commercial spice-cum-bulb crop in Gujarat, where price instability can affect farmers and market participants because production and market supply are seasonal. This study examined the seasonal, cyclical, and irregular behaviour of garlic market arrivals and wholesale prices in Rajkot, Jamnagar, and Gondal APMC markets using monthly secondary data for 2011–2025. A multiplicative time-series decomposition model was applied, and seasonal indices were estimated using the ratio-to-moving-average method. Garlic prices were below the annual average from February to April in all three markets, with the lowest seasonal price index in March and the highest in November. Arrival indices were generally elevated during parts of January–April and October–December and were lowest during July–August. Intra-year price variation was greatest in Gondal, where the intra-year price rise reached 99.83%, compared with 62.72% in Rajkot and 54.91% in Jamnagar. Annual price indices showed marked inter-annual variation, with the highest values in 2024: 3.56 in Rajkot, 2.77 in Jamnagar, and 3.53 in Gondal relative to the respective study-period means. Irregular components also varied across years and markets. Overall, the results demonstrate pronounced seasonal and inter-annual variation in garlic marketing conditions and support the importance of storage, market information, and timely marketing decisions.

The Effects of Dietary Thiamine Supplementation on Snubnose Pompano, Trachinotus blochii (Lacepède, 1801)

Do-Huu Hoang — 2026-10-03

Dietary thiamine supplementation was evaluated in juvenile snubnose pompano, Trachinotus blochii, with an initial mean body weight of 6.87 ± 0.18 g. Five dietary treatments were tested: an unsupplemented control and diets supplemented with 2, 4, 8, or 16 mg thiamine kg⁻¹ feed. Each treatment had three replicate cages, with 35 fish per cage, and the feeding trial lasted four weeks. Growth performance, survival, feed conversion ratio, condition factor, and hepatosomatic index were assessed. Specific growth rate ranged from 2.60 to 2.94% day⁻¹. Fish receiving 2–8 mg thiamine kg⁻¹ feed had significantly higher growth rates than the control (P < 0.05), whereas supplementation at 16 mg kg⁻¹ did not produce a significant growth advantage. Feed conversion ratios in the 2–8 mg kg⁻¹ treatments ranged from 1.85 to 1.91 and were significantly lower than that of the unsupplemented control. Survival ranged from 90.60 to 92.80% and did not differ significantly among thiamine-supplemented treatments. Condition factor and hepatosomatic index also showed no significant treatment effects. Under the conditions of this four-week trial, dietary thiamine supplementation at 2–8 mg kg⁻¹ feed improved growth and feed utilisation without significantly affecting survival, condition factor, or hepatosomatic index. The results therefore describe a short-term growth and feed-utilisation response within the 2–8 mg kg⁻¹ supplementation range in juvenile snubnose pompano.