Journal of Scientific Research and Reports

Discussion on the Current Engineering Application Status and Development Path of Timber–concrete Composite Beams

Zhang Yue — 2026-06-25

Timber–concrete composite beams combine timber and concrete through mechanical or bonded shear connections, enabling the two materials to work together in resisting structural actions. This review discusses the current engineering application status, structural advantages, experimental research progress and development path of timber–concrete composite beams, with particular attention to the role of shear connectors. The manuscript summarises reported applications of timber–concrete composite systems in recent building projects and describes their potential benefits, including improved stiffness, enhanced load-bearing performance, lower self-weight than conventional concrete members and more effective use of the complementary properties of timber and concrete. The review also outlines research on long-term deformation, creep, shrinkage, fire resistance and seismic performance, indicating that these factors remain important for serviceability and safety. Existing studies on dowel-type connectors, embedded steel plate connectors and tenon-screw connectors are discussed to clarify their mechanical characteristics, advantages and limitations. The review indicates that the connector system is a key factor controlling composite action, interface slip, stiffness, bearing capacity, ductility and failure mode. Although timber–concrete composite beams show promise for low-carbon and industrialised construction, their wider application remains limited by insufficient design guidance, limited quantitative comparison among connector types and incomplete understanding of long-term and multi-hazard performance. Further research should focus on reliable connector design, long-term performance prediction, life-cycle assessment and practical design methods suitable for engineering application.

Adaptation, Stress Tolerance and Climate Resilience in Gulmohar (Delonix regia): A Review

Lakhan Singh Rajput — 2026-06-26

Delonix regia (Gulmohar) is a widely cultivated ornamental and multipurpose tree in tropical and subtropical landscapes, valued for its rapid growth, broad canopy, seasonal flowering, and ability to persist under warm and seasonally dry conditions. This review synthesises information presented in the manuscript on the adaptation, stress tolerance, and climate-resilience potential of D. regia, with emphasis on drought, heat, salinity, oxidative stress, and urban environmental constraints. The species exhibits several morphological traits associated with stress avoidance and tolerance, including an extensive rooting habit, semi-deciduous leaf shedding during dry periods, bipinnate leaves, and an umbrella-shaped canopy that provides shade and moderates the surrounding microclimate. Physiological responses discussed include stomatal regulation, photosynthetic adjustment, improved water-use efficiency, and osmotic adjustment under water-deficit and saline conditions. Biochemical responses include the accumulation of compatible solutes, such as proline, soluble sugars, and amino acids, together with the activation of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase, which help reduce oxidative injury caused by reactive oxygen species. The manuscript also highlights the ecological role of D. regia in urban forestry through shade provision, microclimate regulation, particulate interception, soil stabilisation, biodiversity support, and carbon storage through biomass accumulation. However, the evidence base remains fragmented, and several stress-tolerance mechanisms require stronger species-specific validation. Overall, D. regia appears to have useful traits for climate-resilient landscaping, provided its use is supported by site-specific evaluation and further physiological, biochemical, molecular, and field-based research.

Digital Exclusion in Agriculture: A Global Review of Barriers and Government Initiatives for Bridging the Rural–Urban Digital Divide in Developing Countries

S. Shanila — 2026-06-27

The rapid expansion of digital technologies has rekindled optimism about the prospects for transformative agricultural development in low- and middle-income countries. Yet the benefits of this transformation have not been equitably distributed: rural farming populations—who account for a substantial majority of the world's food-insecure households—remain disproportionately excluded from the digital tools, platforms, and information services that are reshaping modern agriculture. This review critically examines the multi-layered barriers sustaining digital exclusion in agricultural settings and evaluates the government and institutional initiatives designed to advance a more equitable digital transition. Drawing on peer-reviewed scholarship and authoritative institutional literature published between January 2015 and March 2026, supplemented by foundational earlier studies, the review identifies five interconnected categories of barrier: infrastructure and connectivity deficits, socioeconomic constraints, digital literacy and skills gaps, gender-based exclusion, and linguistic and cultural impediments. National digital agriculture strategies, regional policy frameworks, and public–private partnerships are assessed for their effectiveness and limitations. Case evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa, South and Southeast Asia, and Latin America reveals that targeted interventions have produced measurable outcomes in specific contexts, whilst systemic inequities in access, capability, and agency persist. The review finds that current policy approaches have too often treated digital inclusion as a technocratic challenge solvable through connectivity expansion alone, neglecting the social, economic, and institutional conditions that determine whether digital tools translate into meaningful welfare improvements for smallholder farmers. Future research should prioritise longitudinal evaluations, gender-transformative approaches, and co-designed investigations in smallholder farming contexts.

A Review on the Hindlimb Bones in Animals and Birds

Bensia Debbarma — 2026-06-29

The hindlimb bones play an important role in locomotion, body-weight support and maintenance of postural balance in animals and birds. This review summarises the gross anatomical, morphometric and functional characteristics of the hindlimb skeleton in wild animals, domestic species and avian species, based on the studies included in the manuscript. The hindlimb region comprises the os coxae, femur, patella, tibia, fibula, tarsal bones, metatarsals, phalanges and sesamoid bones. The reviewed studies indicate species-related variation in the morphology of the femur, tibia, patella, metatarsus and stifle joint among cattle, horses, camels, goats, sheep, dogs, deer, birds and other animals. Descriptions of the pelvic girdle, tarsal and metatarsal bones, femoral condyles, tibial extremities and stifle articulations show that hindlimb bones differ in shape, articular arrangement, fusion pattern and relative development across species. Morphometric observations also demonstrate variation in bone length, breadth, circumference, cortical thickness, condylar dimensions and articular surfaces according to species, sex and age, where these variables were examined. In avian species, the tibiotarsus and tarsometatarsus show distinctive fusion patterns that differ from those of mammals. Together, these observations provide a comparative anatomical basis for understanding locomotor adaptations and structural diversity of the pelvic limb. The review may be useful for radiographic interpretation, orthopaedic evaluation, diagnosis and management of locomotor disorders, and comparative anatomical teaching. It also compiles available gross and morphometric information that may support future veterinary anatomical, clinical and comparative morphological investigations on hindlimb bones in animals and birds. The synthesis remains descriptive and reflects the scope and measurements reported by the cited studies, without introducing additional experimental observations.

Agricultural Mechanisation and Rural Labour Dynamics: A Review of Evidence from Developing Economies

Soumyadeep Das — 2026-07-01

Agricultural mechanisation has returned to the centre of agrarian policy debate across the developing world, propelled by rising rural wages, demographic change, urbanisation and a renewed political appetite for productivity-enhancing technology. This review draws together evidence on how mechanisation reshapes rural labour markets in low- and middle-income countries, focusing on empirical and conceptual work published largely over the past decade and a half. It traced the divergent regional trajectories of mechanisation in Asia, sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Latin America; considered the mechanisms through which machinery substitutes for or complements human labour; and examined the consequences for rural non-farm employment, migration, gendered divisions of labour, and household wellbeing. Particular attention was given to the growth of mechanisation service markets and outsourcing arrangements, which allowed smallholders with fragmented landholdings to use machinery without owning it, and to the uneven distribution of the resulting benefits across farm size, gender and wealth. The review also considered the health, drudgery and time-use dimensions of mechanisation, alongside the institutional and governance failures that have repeatedly undermined publicly led mechanisation schemes. Taken together, the evidence suggested that mechanisation chiefly displaces labour from power-intensive on-farm tasks while reallocating household labour, especially women's labour, toward non-farm and migratory work, with the eventual outcome shaped by the state of land markets, the reach of service-provision infrastructure, and the gendered structure of agricultural tasks. Policy approaches that prioritise scale-appropriate technology, inclusive service markets and complementary investment in rural off-farm employment appear more likely to convert mechanisation into broad-based welfare gains than supply-driven programmes built around the bulk import of large machinery. Substantial gaps remained in long-run, gender-disaggregated and African-context evidence, which limited how confidently the distributional consequences of mechanisation can be generalised across the full diversity of developing-country farming systems.

Road Traffic Accidents as a Public Health Challenge in Africa with Emphasis on Ghana: A Critical Review

Albert Opoku — 2026-07-01

Road traffic accidents (RTAs) rank among the most severe, and most persistently overlooked, public health problems facing Africa today. The continent records the world's highest road traffic fatality rate despite holding only a modest share of the world's registered vehicles, a paradox that is especially pronounced in rapidly motorising countries such as Ghana. This critical narrative review draws together the epidemiological, clinical, and policy dimensions of RTAs across Africa, with particular attention to Ghana. The evidence is drawn from peer-reviewed literature published since 2010, supplemented by authoritative reports from the World Health Organization, the World Bank, and Ghana's National Road Safety Authority. The review traces Africa's rising absolute burden of road traffic deaths against the declines achieved in high-income countries, and shows that pedestrians, motorcyclists, and commercial vehicle occupants bear the brunt of this burden. In Ghana, RTAs are the leading cause of injury-related mortality and impose an economic cost conservatively put at 1.6 to 2.0 per cent of gross domestic product each year. Human behaviour—speeding above all, alongside impaired driving and unsafe overtaking—accounts for most fatal crashes, compounded by ageing vehicle fleets, poorly engineered roads, and pre-hospital care systems that remain severely under-resourced. Reforms have followed one another under successive national road safety frameworks, and Ghana has aligned its policy with the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021–2030, yet implementation gaps, weak surveillance, and resource constraints continue to hold back progress. The review concludes that meaningful reductions in Ghana's road traffic mortality will depend on a coordinated, multi-sectoral strategy that combines legislative enforcement, infrastructure upgrading, behaviour change, and functioning emergency medical services, underpinned by systematic improvements in data collection and monitoring.

A Critical Review of Wollastonite as an Additive in Concrete: Mechanical and Durability Properties

Saloni Kumawat — 2026-07-04

Wollastonite, a naturally occurring calcium metasilicate mineral with an acicular crystal habit, has attracted sustained attention as a partial replacement for cement and fine aggregate in concrete and related cementitious composites. Its fibrous morphology, moderate pozzolanic reactivity, and favourable filler effect distinguish it from conventional supplementary cementitious materials such as fly ash, ground granulated blast-furnace slag, and silica fume. This review critically synthesises the published literature on the influence of natural and synthetic wollastonite on the mechanical and durability performance of cement-based materials, spanning conventional concrete, mortar, self-compacting concrete, geopolymer systems, and ultra-high-performance concrete. The evidence indicates that wollastonite incorporation at 5 to 15 per cent cement or sand replacement levels generally improves compressive and flexural strength, reduces drying shrinkage and microcracking, and densifies the pore structure, leading to lower water absorption, reduced chloride ion penetration, and improved resistance to freeze–thaw and sulfate attack. These benefits are attributed to a combination of physical filler action, crack-bridging by acicular particles, and limited pozzolanic reaction with calcium hydroxide. At higher replacement levels, dilution of clinker content and increased water demand can offset these gains, producing an optimum dosage range rather than a monotonic improvement. The review also considers wollastonite's role in carbon dioxide mineralisation and its environmental profile relative to other mineral admixtures, identifies methodological inconsistencies across the literature concerning particle size, aspect ratio, and curing regime, and outlines priority directions for future research, including standardisation of testing protocols and long-term field validation.

Sustainable Nutrient Management in Calcareous Soils for Improved Nutrient Use Efficiency and Crop Productivity

S. Sridevi — 2026-07-06

Calcareous soils occupy nearly one-third of the global land surface, predominantly in arid and semi-arid regions, and are characterised by high calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) content, alkaline pH, low organic matter, poor aggregate stability, and multiple nutrient-related constraints that limit crop productivity. High CaCO₃ concentrations strongly influence nutrient dynamics through fixation, precipitation, adsorption, and volatilisation processes, thereby reducing the availability and use efficiency of both macronutrients and micronutrients. Major constraints include nitrogen losses through ammonia volatilisation, phosphorus fixation as calcium phosphates, potassium imbalance, sulfur deficiency, and deficiencies of zinc, iron, boron, manganese, and copper. Poor physical properties, including soil crusting, hardpan formation, low infiltration, and restricted root growth, further reduce nutrient-use efficiency. The severity of these constraints varies with climate, soil mineralogy, cropping systems, irrigation practices, and management history, making nutrient deficiencies a major challenge in countries such as India, Pakistan, China, Egypt, Iran, and Australia. Sustainable management of calcareous soils requires integrated and site-specific nutrient management strategies rather than reliance on conventional fertiliser application alone. Recent advances show that combining inorganic fertilisers with organic amendments, biochar, compost, crop residues, microbial inoculants, conservation agriculture, foliar fertilisation, controlled-release fertilisers, and precision nutrient management can enhance nutrient availability, soil fertility, and crop productivity. Organic amendments improve soil organic carbon, aggregation, microbial activity, and nutrient buffering, while biochar enhances nutrient retention and water-use efficiency. Technologies such as site-specific nutrient management (SSNM), nano-fertilisers, and microbial-assisted nutrient mobilisation further improve nutrient-use efficiency under alkaline conditions. This review synthesises recent global research on the distribution, characteristics, nutrient dynamics, and sustainable management of calcareous soils, with emphasis on integrated nutrient management, climate-resilient technologies, and future research priorities for improving nutrient-use efficiency, soil health, and long-term agricultural sustainability.

Influence of Key Building Parameters on Diagrid and Conventional Structural Systems: A Review

Vipul Trivedi — 2026-07-06

Tall building design has moved through several generations of lateral load-resisting systems, from rigid frames and shear walls to tubular and outrigger arrangements, and more recently to diagrid configurations that combine gravity and lateral resistance within an exterior triangulated grid. This review synthesises the published evidence on how key building parameters, namely height, slenderness or aspect ratio, plan geometry, diagrid angle, material and connection detailing, seismic design parameters, and foundation or soil conditions, govern the structural performance of diagrid systems relative to conventional moment frame, shear wall, braced tube, and outrigger systems. The literature consistently shows that diagrid efficiency depends on a diagonal inclination broadly between 50 and 75 degrees from the horizontal, with the optimum value shifting upward as building height and aspect ratio increase. Diagrid systems generally outperform conventional frames in lateral stiffness and steel economy for buildings above roughly forty storeys, while conventional systems, particularly shear wall and outrigger arrangements, retain advantages in low to mid-rise construction and in cases requiring greater architectural flexibility at the perimeter. Plan shape, core configuration, joint detailing, and soil-structure interaction further modulate these outcomes in ways that are not yet fully reconciled across studies using different analytical assumptions. The review concludes that future work should prioritise standardised parametric benchmarks, life-cycle and embodied-carbon comparisons, and validated machine learning surrogate models to support early-stage selection between diagrid and conventional systems.

Application Areas of Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture: A Critical Review and Analysis

Harsh Saharan — 2026-07-08

Artificial intelligence has moved from a peripheral research interest to a central pillar of modern crop and livestock production. This review synthesises recent peer-reviewed literature on the application of artificial intelligence across the agricultural value chain, covering precision farming, crop disease and pest detection, yield forecasting, weed management, agricultural robotics, precision livestock farming, and Internet of Things-enabled resource management. The review also considers the growing use of explainable artificial intelligence and the bibliometric patterns that characterise this rapidly expanding field. Machine learning and deep learning techniques, particularly convolutional neural networks, have delivered measurable gains in disease classification accuracy, yield estimation, and autonomous field operations, while remaining constrained by data scarcity, poor cross-environmental generalisation, and limited interpretability. Precision livestock farming has extended these gains to animal welfare monitoring and reproductive management, and Internet of Things architectures have provided the sensing backbone that links artificial intelligence models to real-time field conditions. Despite substantial technical progress, adoption remains uneven, particularly among smallholder farmers in low- and middle-income regions, owing to infrastructure gaps, cost, and limited digital literacy. The review concludes that artificial intelligence in agriculture has reached a stage of technical maturity in controlled settings but requires further work on model transparency, data standardisation, and equitable deployment before its benefits can be realised at scale. Future research should prioritise lightweight and edge-deployable models, federated and privacy-preserving learning architectures, and closer integration between agronomic domain knowledge and algorithmic design.

Phytoremediation Potential of Millettia pinnata (Karanj) in Industrial Waste Contaminated Soils: A Review

Bhavesh Chandra — 2026-07-08

Millettia pinnata is a fast-growing, drought-tolerant, nitrogen-fixing leguminous tree that has attracted considerable attention for its ecological, economic, and environmental significance. This review aims to evaluate the phytoremediation potential of Millettia pinnata in industrial waste-contaminated environments and to examine the physiological, biochemical, and ecological mechanisms that support its remediation efficiency. Available studies indicate that the species can effectively tolerate, accumulate, stabilise, and detoxify a wide range of contaminants, including chromium, nickel, copper, zinc, manganese, and lead. Its strong antioxidant defence system, extensive root architecture, and symbiotic association with nitrogen-fixing rhizobia enable successful growth in nutrient-deficient and polluted soils while enhancing soil fertility and ecosystem recovery. Furthermore, the species provides significant economic benefits through the production of biodiesel, sustainable aviation fuel, organic fertilisers, biopesticides, and activated carbon. These multifunctional attributes make Millettia pinnata an attractive option for integrating environmental remediation with sustainable resource utilization. Overall, the evidence highlights the considerable potential of Millettia pinnata as a sustainable tool for contaminated land management, ecological restoration, carbon sequestration, and renewable energy production. However, further long-term field-based studies are required to optimize its large-scale application and improve its effectiveness under diverse environmental conditions.

Gender, Agricultural Extension Services, and Farm Outcomes: A Review of Productivity, Income, and Empowerment

Soumyadeep Das — 2026-07-11

Agricultural extension services are pivotal instruments for transferring knowledge and technologies to smallholder farmers in developing economies. Yet decades of evidence indicate that women — who make up a substantial share of the agricultural workforce in low- and middle-income countries — remain systematically underserved by these services. This article presents a critical narrative review of the literature on gender, agricultural extension services, and farm-level outcomes, drawing together evidence across three interrelated dimensions: agricultural productivity, farm income, and women's empowerment. Drawing on peer-reviewed studies published mainly from 2010 onwards, the review examines the nature and scale of gender gaps in extension access, the structural and socio-cultural barriers that drive them, and the differential impacts of various extension modalities — including farmer field schools, digital platforms, and female extension agent deployment — on male and female farmers. The article also evaluates measurement frameworks for women's empowerment in agriculture, including the Women's Empowerment in Agriculture Index and its adaptations. The evidence points consistently to the conclusion that women's restricted access to extension services contributes substantially to observed productivity and income gaps and helps perpetuate cycles of disempowerment. Targeted, gender-responsive extension designs — encompassing group-based approaches, ICT-enabled services, and deliberate female staffing strategies — hold real promise, though context sensitivity and sustained institutional commitment remain essential. The review closes with reflections on persistent research gaps and policy implications, and acknowledges limitations relating to geographic concentration, methodological heterogeneity, and possible publication bias in the underlying literature.

Heterotic Grouping Strategies for Enhancing Hybrid Performance in Maize

G. Anusha — 2026-07-13

Maize hybrid breeding rests on the deliberate exploitation of heterosis, the superior performance of an F1 hybrid relative to its inbred parents. Central to this enterprise is the organisation of breeding germplasm into heterotic groups, pools of related genotypes chosen so that crosses between groups consistently outperform crosses within groups. Over the past decade the methods used to define, refine and deploy heterotic groups have shifted substantially, moving from pedigree records and phenotypic combining-ability trials towards genome-wide marker platforms, doubled haploid technology and genomic prediction. This review synthesises recent peer-reviewed literature on heterotic grouping strategies in maize, covering the genetic basis of heterosis, classical and molecular approaches to group classification, population improvement methods such as reciprocal recurrent selection, and the growing role of genomic selection in predicting hybrid performance across heterotic pools. Particular attention is given to regional case studies from sub-Saharan Africa and China, where breeding programmes have had to reconcile historical pedigree-based groupings with genomic evidence of divergence. The review finds that no single classification method is universally superior; combining-ability data remain the most direct predictor of hybrid performance, but molecular markers offer scalability and consistency that phenotypic trials cannot match on their own. Doubled haploid technology and genomic selection are converging to accelerate the cycle of heterotic pool improvement, although questions remain about the transferability of prediction models across germplasm and environments. The review concludes that heterotic grouping is best treated as an iterative, evidence-updated process rather than a fixed classification, and it identifies priority areas for further research, including the integration of multi-omics data and the management of genetic diversity within increasingly narrow elite pools.

Comparative Analysis of Nutritional Composition and Functional Health Attributes of Cow, Goat, and Sheep Milk and their Powdered Forms

Vikas Yadav — 2026-07-13

Ruminant milk from cattle, goats and sheep remains a cornerstone of global food security and infant, clinical and everyday nutrition, yet the three species differ markedly in macronutrient density, protein and lipid architecture, mineral load and downstream processing behaviour once converted into powdered form. This review synthesises the current scientific literature comparing the nutritional composition and functional health attributes of cow, goat and sheep milk in both liquid and powdered states. Compositional analysis confirms that sheep milk carries the highest total solids, protein and fat concentrations of the three species, while goat milk occupies an intermediate position characterised by smaller fat globules, a distinctive casein polymorphism and lower allergenic potential relative to cow milk. Functional attributes reviewed include protein digestibility and gastric coagulation behaviour, bioactive peptide generation, milk fat globule membrane composition, conjugated linoleic acid content, oligosaccharide diversity and clinical evidence regarding lactose tolerance and cardiometabolic outcomes. The conversion of each milk type into powder through spray drying introduces species-specific challenges in stickiness, protein denaturation, lipid oxidation and rehydration behaviour that are addressed in a dedicated processing section. Comparative summary tables are provided for macronutrient and mineral composition, functional bioactive attributes, and powder processing characteristics. The review concludes that although cow milk remains the dominant global commodity, goat and sheep milk and their powders offer distinct compositional and functional advantages that merit targeted product development, particularly for infant, elderly and dairy-sensitive populations, while highlighting persistent gaps in standardised human clinical evidence across species.

Explainable Artificial Intelligence and Data Governance in U.S. Financial Reporting: A Scoping Review of Reporting Quality, Regulatory Accountability, and Decision Transparency

Saheedat Olasumbo Abbas — 2026-06-29

Background: Artificial intelligence is increasingly used in financial reporting, auditing, disclosure preparation, internal-control monitoring and regulatory compliance in United States organisations. However, opaque model outputs, weak data governance and uncertain human accountability may limit reporting quality, auditability and decision transparency.

Aim: This scoping review mapped evidence on how explainable artificial intelligence and data governance support financial reporting quality, regulatory accountability and decision transparency in United States organisations.

Methods: The review used a scoping design guided by the Population-Concept-Context framework and PRISMA-ScR principles. Evidence was identified from Scopus, IEEE Xplore and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission website. Eligible sources were English-language materials published between 2022 and 2026 that addressed artificial intelligence, explainability, data governance, model governance, auditability, internal control, disclosure or accountability in accounting, auditing or reporting contexts. Data were charted on AI/XAI applications, governance mechanisms, reporting-quality domains, regulatory-accountability links and evidence gaps.

Results: Nineteen sources were included, comprising peer-reviewed articles, working papers, preprints, professional guidance and regulatory documents. Applications included generative AI, machine learning, decision trees, random forests, fraud detection, anomaly detection, disclosure analytics and audit decision aids. Governance mechanisms included explainability tools, confidence scores, human overrides, validation datasets, cybersecurity controls, audit trails, board oversight and prompt/output documentation. The evidence linked AI to reporting timeliness, ledger granularity, disclosure analysis, audit support, internal-control monitoring and misstatement-risk reduction. Nevertheless, data lineage, vendor governance, retention rules, approval workflows and formal AI assurance remained underdeveloped.

Conclusion: AI-supported reporting is most defensible when data, models, controls and human judgements are explainable, traceable, reviewable and accountable.

Effects of Biochar, Vermicompost and FYM on Soybean Productivity and Nutrient Use Efficiency in Vertisols

Yash Bajpayi — 2026-06-25

Soybean productivity in Vertisols is often constrained by poor nutrient availability and low nutrient use efficiency due to soil-related limitations. Organic amendments such as biochar, vermicompost and farmyard manure (FYM) can improve soil fertility, enhance nutrient retention and support sustainable soybean production. This study evaluated the effects of biochar, vermicompost and FYM on soybean productivity and nutrient use efficiency in Vertisols. A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2024 at SVVV, Indore, using a randomised block design with eight treatments. These included 100% recommended dose of fertiliser (RDF) and various INM modules comprising 50% RDF combined with biochar, FYM and vermicompost. The parameters studied included yield, NPK uptake and nutrient efficiency indices. Integrated treatments significantly outperformed sole chemical fertilisation. Treatment T8 (50% RDF + 2.5 t biochar + 2.5 t VC ha⁻¹) recorded the highest grain (12.52 q ha⁻¹) and straw (18.74 q ha⁻¹) yields, representing a 100% increase over the control. T8 also exhibited the maximum nitrogen and potassium uptake in grain and superior physiological efficiency for nitrogen. While soil pH and EC remained stable, organic carbon showed slight improvement under biochar-based treatments. Higher soil NPK in the control plots compared with T8 reflected efficient nutrient utilisation and higher biomass removal in the integrated plots. Substituting 50% RDF with a biochar-vermicompost blend (T8) optimises soybean productivity and nutrient recovery through a slow-release mechanism, offering a sustainable strategy for soil health and crop performance in black soils.

Socio-economic Profile of the Edible Oil Consumers in Kalyana Karnataka, Karnataka, India

Rajkumar — 2026-06-25

Edible oils are an important component of household food expenditure and nutrition in India; however, despite substantial growth in oilseed production, domestic availability remains insufficient, leading to high import dependence. The present study analysed the socio-economic profile of edible oil consumers in the Kalyana Karnataka region of Karnataka, with specific reference to Kalaburagi and Ballari districts. A total of 120 respondents, comprising 60 rural and 60 urban consumers, were selected using a multi-stage random sampling technique. Primary data were collected through personal interviews using a structured schedule and analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed distinct rural-urban differences in socio-economic characteristics, with urban consumers being relatively more highly educated, having higher income levels and owning more household assets than rural consumers. Nuclear families and medium-sized households were predominant in both areas, while non-vegetarian food habits were common, indicating higher edible oil consumption. The study concludes that socio-economic factors, such as education, income, occupation and family structure, influence edible oil consumption behaviour and underscore the need for region-specific awareness and policy interventions to promote informed and healthier edible oil choices.

Assessment of Woody Lignocellulosic Substrates for Mycelial Colonization and Bio Composite Development Using Pleurotus ostreatus

Niha Nousheen — 2026-06-26

The increasing demand for sustainable and biodegradable alternatives to synthetic materials has accelerated research on mycelium-based composites using lignocellulosic biomass. This study evaluated the colonisation behaviour of Pleurotus ostreatus on selected woody substrates including subabul (Leucaena leucocephala), melia (Melia dubia), bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus), eucalyptus (Eucalyptus tereticornis), lantana (Lantana camara), and ailanthus (Ailanthus excelsa) under controlled laboratory conditions. The substrates were processed to a particle size of approximately 8 mm, sterilised, inoculated with sorghum grain spawn at a 1:1 ratio, and incubated at 25°C and 75% relative humidity for 18 days. A comparative qualitative evaluation was conducted based on surface colonisation, internal mycelial spread, hyphal density, uniformity of growth, colour changes, and contamination occurrence. Among the tested substrates, subabul and melia exhibited excellent colonisation with dense and uniform mycelial growth (++++) and extensive substrate coverage. Bamboo showed good colonisation behaviour (+++) with comparatively stable mycelial spread, whereas eucalyptus and lantana exhibited sparse and uneven growth (+) with delayed colonisation and slight contamination. Ailanthus demonstrated moderate colonisation behaviour (++). The observed differences in fungal growth behaviour were attributed to variations in substrate composition, porosity, moisture interaction, and the presence of inhibitory extractives such as phenolic compounds and essential oils. The findings indicate that substrate characteristics influence fungal establishment and colonisation efficiency. The study highlights the potential of subabul and melia as promising woody substrates for future bio-composite development. Although the present investigation was preliminary, the results provide useful insights into substrate compatibility and sustainable utilisation of woody lignocellulosic biomass for environmentally friendly biomaterial applications.

A Comparative Study of Farmer Perception towards Organic Farming Practices: Evidence from Keonjhar and Kendrapara Districts of Odisha, India

Anjana — 2026-06-26

Organic farming is promoted as a sustainable alternative to conventional agriculture, but its adoption depends strongly on farmers’ perceptions of feasibility, profitability and benefits. This study examined vegetable farmers’ perceptions of organic farming practices in Keonjhar and Kendrapara districts of Odisha, India. An ex-post facto research design was used, and data were collected from 400 respondents selected through multistage sampling. Farmers’ perceptions were measured using a structured interview schedule comprising 25 statements across five domains: production practices, environmental and health benefits, economic viability and profitability, certification and policy support, and market access and consumer demand. The instrument showed high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.89). Results indicated strong positive perceptions of the environmental and health benefits of organic farming, particularly soil fertility improvement (overall mean = 4.45) and residue-free food production (overall mean = 4.46). However, perceptions of economic viability, certification, training and market infrastructure were comparatively moderate. Welch’s t-test showed significant inter-district differences across all domains (p < 0.001), with Kendrapara farmers reporting a more favourable overall perception (mean = 4.07) than Keonjhar farmers (mean = 3.26). The largest difference was observed in economic viability and profitability (t = 40.63). The Perception Gap Index was higher in Keonjhar (34.47%) than in Kendrapara (26.32%), with a pooled value of 30.07%. Overall, 58.50% of respondents fell in the medium perception category. The findings suggest that farmer-oriented training, simplified certification procedures and stronger organic marketing channels are needed to reduce perception gaps and support informed adoption decisions.

Effectiveness of DAMU Agro-advisory Services in Enhancing Crop Planning and Management: A Comparative Study of Beneficiary and Non-beneficiary Farmers

Hemraj Bodlya — 2026-06-26

Agriculture is highly vulnerable to weather variability, making timely weather-based agro-advisories essential for effective crop planning, resource management and climate-resilient farming. District Agro-Meteorological Units (DAMUs) play a crucial role in disseminating localised weather forecasts and crop-specific recommendations to farmers. The present study assessed the role of DAMUs in farm planning and management through an opinion-based evaluation of agro-advisory services in Jalore district, Rajasthan. A purposive and random sampling approach was used to select 120 respondents, comprising 60 beneficiaries and 60 non-beneficiaries. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested interview schedule and analysed with appropriate statistical tools. The findings revealed that beneficiary farmers expressed significantly favourable opinions towards DAMU advisories, acknowledging their effectiveness in minimising harvesting losses due to abnormal weather, optimising irrigation scheduling, improving pest and disease management and enhancing crop productivity. In contrast, non-beneficiaries reported limited awareness and less favourable perceptions, citing a lack of knowledge about the DAMU scheme, inadequate technical support and dependence on external agencies for crop planning. The study concludes that DAMU agro-advisories play a significant role in improving crop planning and management by providing timely weather-based recommendations to farmers. Beneficiary farmers reported higher levels of awareness, acceptance and utilisation of advisory services than non-beneficiaries. The study highlights the need for enhanced extension efforts, ICT-enabled dissemination and capacity-building programmes to expand the reach of DAMU advisories and strengthen climate-resilient agricultural decision-making.

Survey on Thrips Incidence in Groundnut Growing Mandals of Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh, India

Y. Aasritha — 2026-06-26

A roving survey on thrips incidence in groundnut-growing mandals of Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh, was conducted during rabi 2025-2026 to assess thrips incidence and associated foliar damage in major groundnut-growing mandals of Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh. The survey covered three mandals, namely Tekkali, Santabommali and Kotabommali, with three villages selected from each mandal. Observations were recorded during the vegetative, flowering and pegging stages of the crop. In each village, five farmers' fields were selected, and the thrips population was assessed from the terminal growing portion of plants. Foliar damage was estimated on the basis of visible feeding symptoms and expressed as the percentage of damaged leaves. Thrips incidence and foliar damage varied among villages, mandals and crop growth stages. During the vegetative stage, Nimmada village of Kotabommali mandal recorded the highest thrips population of 3.98 thrips per top shoot per plant and the highest foliar damage of 11.60%. During the flowering stage, Tallavalasa village of Santabommali mandal recorded the highest thrips population of 12.35 thrips per top shoot per plant and the highest foliar damage of 20.30%. During the pegging stage, Tallavalasa again recorded the highest thrips population of 8.27 thrips per top shoot per plant and foliar damage of 14.36%. Pooled observations showed that thrips incidence increased from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage and declined moderately during the pegging stage. A similar pattern was observed for foliar damage. Kotabommali mandal recorded higher pooled thrips incidence and foliar damage during the vegetative and flowering stages, whereas Santabommali mandal recorded higher infestation during the pegging stage. The findings provide baseline information on thrips incidence in groundnut-growing areas of Srikakulam district and may support location-specific monitoring strategies.

Effect of Seed Coating on Seed Quality and Storability of Oat (Avena sativa L.) under Storage

Ankita — 2026-06-27

Seed deterioration during storage reduces seed viability, seedling vigour and field establishment in oat (Avena sativa L.). This study evaluated the effect of seed coating treatments on seed quality and storability of oat variety Palampur-1 under ambient storage conditions. Carry-over seeds from the Rabi 2021-22 crop were graded, dried to approximately 8.0% moisture content, and treated with polymer, fungicides, insecticide and biofungicides in ten treatment combinations, including an untreated control. Treated and untreated seeds were packed in interwoven high-density polyethylene bags and stored from April 2023 to April 2024. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomised design with three replications, and seed quality parameters were recorded initially and at bimonthly intervals for up to twelve months. Seed germination, rate of germination, seedling length, seedling dry weight, vigour indices, field emergence, moisture content and test weight were assessed during storage. Seed quality declined gradually in all treatments as storage duration increased; however, coated seeds maintained better quality than the untreated control. After twelve months of storage, polymer + vitavax power containing thiram 37.5% and carboxin 37.5% @ 2.0 g/kg seed recorded the highest final germination (99.00%), first count (98.67%), rate of germination (48.42), seedling length (40.64 cm), 10-seedling dry weight (0.0958 g) and field emergence (89.00%). The findings indicate that polymer coating combined with vitavax power was effective in maintaining oat seed quality during storage under the conditions of this study.

Socio-economic, Communication and Psychological Profile of Mandarin Growers in South-Eastern Rajasthan

Jagdish Chand Dangi — 2026-06-27

The present study was conducted to analyze the socio-economic, communication and psychological profile of mandarin growers in South-Eastern Rajasthan. An ex-post-facto research design was employed in Jhalawar and Bhilwara districts, selected on the basis of maximum area under mandarin cultivation. A total of 240 mandarin growers were selected through proportionate random sampling from six Gram Panchayats. Data were collected through personal interviews and analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean percent score, mean and standard deviation.

The findings revealed that the majority of mandarin growers (62.91%) belonged to the middle-age group and 32.92 per cent had education up to secondary level. Most of the growers (64.17%) possessed medium experience in mandarin cultivation, while 35.00 per cent belonged to the small landholding category. A large proportion (81.25%) had medium area under mandarin orchards and 81.17 per cent had medium annual income. The majority of respondents (40.83%) belonged to medium-sized families. Regarding communication characteristics, private agency dealers (MPS 90.00) and agriculture supervisors (MPS 75.83) were the most important extension contacts. Mobile phones (MPS 87.92) and television (MPS 77.29) were the major sources of mass media exposure. More than half of the growers (56.67%) adopted check basin irrigation. Psychological characteristics indicated that the majority of respondents had medium levels of risk orientation (74.17%) and economic motivation (62.50%). The study highlights that mandarin growers possess moderate socio-economic status, communication exposure and psychological attributes, which provide opportunities for strengthening extension interventions and adoption of improved mandarin production technologies.

Assessment of Weed Indices and Correlation Analysis under Different Herbicidal Weed-Management Practices in Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.)

G. K. Mote — 2026-06-27

Background: Weed infestation is a major constraint in green gram (Vigna radiata L.) production and causes substantial yield losses through severe crop-weed competition during the early growth stages.

Objective: The present investigation was conducted to assess weed indices and to elucidate the relationship between weed density, weed biomass and seed yield under various herbicide-based weed management practices in green gram.

Methodology: A field experiment was conducted during the summer seasons of 2024 and 2025 at the Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Dapoli, Maharashtra, India. The experiment was laid out in a randomised block design with twelve treatments and three replications, comprising pre-emergence, post-emergence, sequential herbicide applications, weed-free and unweeded check treatments. Weed indices and correlation coefficients between weed parameters and seed yield were computed.

Results: Among the herbicidal weed-management treatments, pre-emergence application of pendimethalin 38.7% CS at 677.25 g a.i. ha-1 followed by post-emergence application of fluazifop-p-butyl 11.1% + fomesafen 11.1% SL at 250 g a.i. ha-1 recorded higher weed-control efficiency and a lower weed index, followed by pre-emergence application of oxyfluorfen 23.5% EC at 120 g a.i. ha-1 followed by fluazifop-p-butyl 11.1% + fomesafen 11.1% SL at 250 g a.i. ha-1. Correlation analysis revealed significant negative associations between seed yield and weed density and biomass. Digitaria sanguinalis L., Physalis minima L., Cardiospermum halicacabum L. and Celosia argentea L. exhibited strong negative correlations with seed yield, indicating substantial competitive effects on crop productivity.

Conclusion: The study demonstrated that effective weed management through sequential herbicide application improved weed control and minimised yield losses in green gram. The strong negative association between weed infestation and seed yield highlights the importance of timely weed suppression for enhancing crop productivity under Konkan agro-climatic conditions.

Extent and Determinants of Adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Practices among Farmers in Chümoukedima District of Nagaland, India

Ngangshikokba I. Pongen — 2026-06-29

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an environmentally oriented approach that combines cultural, mechanical, biological and need-based chemical methods to manage pest populations while reducing excessive dependence on synthetic pesticides. The present study was conducted in Dhansiripar block of Chümoukedima district, Nagaland, to assess the extent of adoption of recommended IPM practices among farmers and to identify selected factors associated with adoption behaviour. Five villages, namely Urra, Bade, Doyapur, Amaluma and Kiyeto, were selected for the study. A total of 100 farmers were selected, with 20 respondents from each village. Primary data were collected through personal interviews using a pre-tested structured schedule and secondary information was obtained from relevant publications and official sources. The data were analysed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and correlation analysis. The findings showed that the majority of respondents had a medium level of adoption of recommended IPM practices (78.00%), followed by high adoption (16.00%) and low adoption (6.00%). Cultural and mechanical practices such as summer ploughing, timely sowing, weed removal, handpicking and destruction of insects and sieving and winnowing of grains were widely adopted. In contrast, adoption of recommended seed rate, plant spacing, water management, pheromone traps, cold storage, bio-control agents and botanical pesticides was low or absent among most respondents. Correlation analysis indicated that education, occupation, material possession and risk orientation were positively associated with adoption, while age showed a negative association; however, these relationships are associational in nature and do not establish causation. The findings suggest that targeted investments in farmer training, extension outreach and improved availability of IPM inputs may contribute to higher adoption levels, and offer a basis for designing evidence-informed pest management interventions suited to the agrarian context of Nagaland.

Association and Path Coefficient Analysis for Grain Yield and Starch Content in Maize (Zea mays L.) Inbred Lines Evaluated Across Diverse Agro-climatic locations of Telangana

B. Vamshi — 2026-06-29

Identification of reliable yield-contributing traits is essential for improving maize inbred lines used in hybrid development. The present investigation was conducted during kharif 2025 across three agro-climatic zones of Telangana to assess phenotypic and genotypic associations among grain yield, starch content and related agronomic traits in maize. Forty maize inbred lines and four standard checks were evaluated in a randomised block design with two replications at each location. Observations were recorded for fourteen traits, including flowering, maturity, plant and ear traits, kernel traits, test weight, shelling percentage, starch content and grain yield per plant. Correlation analysis indicated that grain yield per plant was positively associated with plant height, ear height, ear length, ear diameter, number of kernels per row, shelling percentage and test weight at both phenotypic and genotypic levels. Plant height showed the strongest positive association with grain yield. Flowering and maturity traits were negatively associated with grain yield, indicating that delayed reproductive development was unfavourable in the evaluated material. Starch content showed a weak positive phenotypic association and a negative genotypic association with grain yield. Path coefficient analysis indicated that plant height, ear length, shelling percentage, ear diameter and kernel-related traits contributed directly or indirectly to grain yield. The findings suggest that these traits may be useful selection criteria for improving maize inbred lines under Telangana conditions.

Assessment of Genetic Variability and Identification of Superior Recombinants in a Double-Cross-Derived F₂ Population of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) for Inbred Line Development

Shobha Immadi — 2026-06-30

Genetic recombination among diverse elite parental lines is an effective strategy for broadening the genetic base and developing superior inbred lines in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench). Among 45 double-cross hybrids developed by crossing ten commercial single-cross hybrids in a half-diallel mating design, BDCH-23 [SCH-3 (Sun-28) × SCH-9 (Abhay)] was identified as the superior cross combination and advanced to the F₂ generation. The resulting population of 182 F₂ plants was evaluated under unreplicated field conditions during summer 2025 at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, India, to assess genetic variability and identify superior recombinants for fruit yield and its component traits. Each plant was considered a genetically distinct segregating genotype. The population exhibited wide phenotypic variation, indicating recombination of favourable alleles from diverse parental backgrounds. Fruit yield per plant recorded high phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation (38.79% and 36.59%, respectively), high heritability (88.95%) and high genetic advance as per cent of mean (71.08%), suggesting the predominance of additive gene action and the usefulness of selection in the segregating generation. Number of fruits per plant and average fruit weight also showed favourable genetic parameters, indicating their relevance as supporting selection criteria for yield improvement. Superior recombinants were identified as plants whose mean performance exceeded the population mean by one standard deviation. On this basis, 14.28% of the F₂ plants were classified as superior transgressive segregants for fruit yield per plant. Genotype P-430 recorded the highest fruit yield (999.80 g plant⁻¹), representing a 69.77% increase over the standard check. These results indicate that the BDCH-23-derived F₂ population provides useful variability for selecting promising recombinants for inbred line development in okra.

Construction of Knowledge Test to Assess the Knowledge Level of Tribal Women Regarding Post-Harvest Management of Millets in Odisha, India

Asutosh Mishra — 2026-06-30

This study aimed to develop and standardise a knowledge test for assessing knowledge level of tribal women regarding post-harvest management of millets in Odisha. A pool of 58 items was prepared after reviewing relevant literature and consulting subject matter experts. The items covered major dimensions of post-harvest management including processing, storage, post-harvest technologies, value addition and entrepreneurship. Relevancy rating by experts was used to screen the items and 34 items were retained for item analysis. These items were administered to 60 non-sampled tribal women from Madanpur Rampur block of Kalahandi district, Odisha. Responses were scored dichotomously and analysed using item difficulty index, item discrimination index and point-biserial correlation coefficient. Based on the prescribed criteria, 25 items were selected for the final knowledge test. The selected items represented key areas of post-harvest management of millets including primary processing, storage, nutrition, value addition and enterprise-related practices. The reliability of the final instrument was assessed using the split-half method. The correlation coefficient was 0.771 while the Spearman-Brown coefficient was 0.870 for equal-length halves and 0.871 for unequal-length halves. The results indicate that the developed test is suitable for assessing the knowledge level of tribal women regarding post-harvest management of millets and can support the identification of knowledge gaps for training and extension purposes.

Effect of Various Growing Media on Germination Parameters of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Grown under Shade Net Condition

Pakhi Tripathi — 2026-07-01

Chilli is an important commercial spice crop valued for its colour, pungency and flavour, and India is a leading producer. However, its cultivation is affected by abiotic and biotic stresses, emphasising the need for quality planting material and suitable growing media for healthy seedlings. The present investigation was conducted during the summer season of 2024-25 at the Research-cum-Instructional Farm, K.D. College of Horticulture and Research Station, Dharampura-2, Jagdalpur, Bastar, Chhattisgarh. The experiment was laid out in a factorial completely randomised design (CRD) with eighteen treatment combinations comprising two chilli varieties, Arka Khyati (V₁) and Arka Meghna (V₂), and nine growing media treatments, with three replications. The objective was to assess the effects of different growing media on germination and early seedling growth parameters under shade net conditions. The results revealed significant differences among varieties, growing media and their interactions for germination and seedling growth attributes. Among the varieties, Arka Meghna showed superior performance, with earlier germination, higher germination percentage, lower mean germination time (MGT) and higher speed of germination than Arka Khyati, indicating greater inherent seed vigour. Growing media significantly influenced germination behaviour; termitarium soil, cocopeat and composite media combinations promoted faster and more uniform germination, whereas vermicompost alone resulted in delayed germination and lower germination percentage. Mean germination time was lowest, and speed of germination was highest, in composite media containing soil, cocopeat and vermicompost in equal proportions. The significant interaction effects indicated that germination and seedling growth responses were strongly genotype-dependent. Overall, the study demonstrated that a high-vigour variety combined with a well-balanced growing medium is essential for rapid, uniform and quality chilli seedling production under shade net conditions, thereby supporting improved nursery management and crop establishment.

Development and Evaluation of Mixed Vegetable Jam: Physicochemical, Nutritional and Sensory Characteristics

G. Srinivas — 2026-07-01

The present study was undertaken to develop and evaluate a nutritionally enriched mixed vegetable jam utilising underexploited or low-grade vegetables, including sweet potato, pumpkin, beetroot, carrot and turnip. Three formulations were prepared by varying the proportions of sweet potato and pumpkin while maintaining constant levels of beetroot, carrot, turnip, sugar, citric acid and pectin. The developed jam samples were analysed for physicochemical, nutritional and sensory characteristics using standard analytical procedures. Physicochemical analysis revealed significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) among treatments for total soluble solids (TSS), viscosity, pH and titratable acidity. Treatment T3, containing equal proportions of sweet potato and pumpkin (15:15), recorded the highest TSS (67.74 °Brix) and viscosity (41,260.33 cP), indicating superior gel consistency and stability. Nutritional evaluation showed that T3 exhibited significantly higher ash (3.12%), crude fibre (3.62%), protein (2.74%), fat (0.18%) and carbohydrate (62.61%) contents, while recording the lowest moisture content (28.91%). Sensory evaluation using a nine-point hedonic scale indicated significant differences in flavour, spreadability and overall acceptability. Among the formulations, T2, comprising sweet potato (12.5%) and pumpkin (17.5%), achieved the highest sensory scores due to its balanced taste, texture and spreadability. The study demonstrated the potential of utilising nutrient-rich vegetables for the development of value-added jam products. While T3 was superior in physicochemical and nutritional quality, T2 emerged as the most preferred formulation from a sensory perspective. The developed mixed vegetable jam offers a promising approach for enhancing vegetable utilisation, improving nutritional intake and reducing post-harvest losses through value addition.

Occurrence, Distribution, and Physical Characterization of Macro- and Mesoplastic Debris in Beach Sediments of the Sutrapada-Veraval Coast, Northwestern India

Rushikeshkumar J Valmik — 2026-07-01

Plastic debris poses a significant and escalating threat to coastal ecosystems worldwide, yet baseline data from many regional shorelines remain scarce. This study assessed the abundance, distribution, and physical characteristics of mesoplastics (5 mm-2.5 cm) and macroplastics (>2.5 cm) in beach sediments along the Sutrapada-Veraval coastline of Gujarat, India, over an eight-month monitoring period. Mean macroplastic abundance was 5.94 ± 3.49 and 8.75 ± 3.77 items/m² at Somnath and Sutrapada beaches, respectively. Rope pieces dominated the macroplastic assemblage at Somnath (45.39%), whereas plastic pouches were most prevalent at Sutrapada (45.37%). Mean mesoplastic abundance was 1.04 ± 1.25 and 1.31 ± 1.36 items/m² at Somnath and Sutrapada beaches, respectively. Thermocol was the leading mesoplastic category at both sites, accounting for 24.53% at Somnath and 61.90% at Sutrapada. These findings indicate persistent plastic contamination along this economically important coastline and emphasise the need for targeted waste-management interventions and sustained long-term monitoring.

Forecasting Oilseed Crop Yields in Bihar: A Comparative Study of Time Series and Hybrid Models for Rapeseed–Mustard

Tahsin Fatma — 2026-07-01

Rapeseed–mustard is an important oilseed crop in Bihar, and reliable yield forecasts are useful for production planning and policy support. This study developed and compared statistical, machine-learning and hybrid forecasting models for rapeseed–mustard yield in Bihar using annual historical yield data from 1950 to 2023 obtained from IndiaStatAgri. Outliers were examined using the interquartile range approach, and the series was divided into a training period (1950–2016) and a testing period (2017–2023). Stationarity was assessed using the KPSS test, and first differencing was applied before fitting ARIMA models. Candidate ARIMA specifications were evaluated using AIC and BIC, while forecast accuracy was assessed using RMSE and MAPE for the testing data. The ARIMA(0,1,1) model showed the lowest AIC among the candidate ARIMA models; however, residual diagnostics indicated significant autocorrelation, suggesting that a linear model alone did not fully capture the structure of the yield series. Therefore, hybrid models combining ARIMA with ANN and SVR were evaluated alongside standalone SVR and ARIMA models. Among the competing models, the Hybrid ARIMA–SVR model produced the best testing performance, with an RMSE of 63.52 and a MAPE of 4.50. The selected Hybrid ARIMA–SVR model forecast yields of 1257.64, 1275.00, 1263.27 and 1265.40 kg/ha for 2024, 2025, 2026 and 2027, respectively. The results indicate that the Hybrid ARIMA–SVR model can provide comparatively accurate short-term forecasts for rapeseed–mustard yield in Bihar based on historical yield patterns.

Profitability, Employment and Factor Influencing Type A Secondary Agriculture Activities in Karnataka, India

Kavana V. Patil — 2026-07-01

The present study examined the profitability and employment potential of Type A secondary agriculture activities in Karnataka, with specific attention to jaggery production, milk pooling and chilling units, and cottage-scale pickle making. Primary data were collected through personal interviews with 30 small-scale units in Belagavi and Haveri districts. Economic performance, labour use and factors influencing the growth of secondary agriculture were assessed using cost and returns analysis, descriptive statistics and Garrett’s ranking technique. The results showed variation in profitability across activities. Jaggery production generated substantial gross returns but incurred high raw material costs and seasonal constraints, which reduced cost efficiency. Milk pooling and chilling units generated the highest turnover and stable net returns, supported by year-round operation and efficient cost management. Cottage-scale pickle making required relatively low investment and recorded favourable returns per rupee of investment, although its annual net returns were limited by the small production scale. Employment analysis indicated that jaggery production was highly labour-intensive, particularly for female workers, whereas milk pooling required a stable workforce throughout the year. Pickle making generated comparatively limited but relevant employment. Garrett’s ranking identified raw material availability, storage facilities, labour availability, higher income prospects, access to credit and low transportation costs as important accelerating factors. Major constraints included high establishment costs, irregular raw material supply, inadequate storage facilities, limited extension support, skilled-labour shortages, high packaging costs and weak local demand. Addressing these constraints may improve the contribution of secondary agriculture to farm income diversification and rural livelihoods.

Improving Soil Physical Conditions and Productivity of Mango in the Heavy Rainfall Region of South Gujarat, India Via Tillage Interventions

A. V. Sonawane — 2026-07-02

Background: Perennial fruit orchards in humid tropical regions often experience progressive soil compaction due to repeated machinery traffic and prolonged absence of effective soil loosening, resulting in restricted water movement and sub-optimal root zone conditions. This problem is particularly acute in mango orchards in South Gujarat, India, which fall under the heavy-rainfall agro-ecological sub-region (AES-III).

Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of different tillage practices on soil physico-chemical properties, mango phenology, productivity, machine performance, and economics.

Methods: A field experiment was conducted for three consecutive years (2021–22 to 2023–24) at the Horticulture Farm of ACHF, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari. Seven tillage treatments comprising subsoil tillage, mould board ploughing, cultivator operation, conventional shallow tillage, their combinations and no-tillage were evaluated using a large-plot technique with three replications.

Results: Deep tillage treatments, particularly subsoil tillage combined with cultivator operation, significantly improved infiltration rate, percolation rate and saturated hydraulic conductivity while reducing bulk density and electrical conductivity. Subsoil tillage combined with cultivator operation (T5) consistently recorded the highest infiltration rate (5.3 cm h⁻¹), percolation rate (4.3 cm h⁻¹), and saturated hydraulic conductivity (3.9 cm day⁻¹), along with the lowest bulk density (1.39 g cm⁻³). These improvements resulted in earlier flowering, fewer days to maturity, and significantly higher fruit yield and economic returns. Fruit yield was significantly higher under T5 (37.80 kg tree⁻¹ pooled). Economic analysis revealed that T5 provided the highest gross return (₹4,68,342 ha⁻¹), net return (₹3,66,342 ha⁻¹), and benefit–cost ratio (3.59), indicating its higher profitability. No-tillage consistently resulted in inferior soil physical conditions and lower yield.

Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of site-specific, periodic deep tillage strategies for sustaining soil health, orchard productivity and profitability under heavy rainfall conditions.

Feeding Management Practices and Nutritional Status among Smallholder Dairy Farmers Across Indian States: A Multi-State Field Assessment

Vinod Potdar — 2026-07-02

India is the world's largest milk producer, with smallholder farmers contributing substantially to national dairy output. However, productivity remains constrained by suboptimal feeding practices, inadequate green fodder availability, and limited use of balanced concentrates and mineral supplements. This study assessed feeding management practices among smallholder dairy farmers across Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. Data were collected from 9,639 farmers in 973 villages, 140 tehsils/blocks, and 41 districts. Information was recorded on green and dry fodder feeding, concentrate feeding, feeding during pregnancy, concentrate feeding to calves and heifers, mineral supplementation, type of concentrate used, and concentrate cost. The results showed substantial inter-state variation. Regular green fodder feeding was highest in Maharashtra and Punjab, whereas adoption was very low in Odisha, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Regular concentrate feeding was higher in Maharashtra, Punjab, and Gujarat. Additional concentrate feeding during pregnancy was commonly practised in Punjab, Bihar, and Jharkhand, but remained limited in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. Mineral supplementation was critically low in most states, except Punjab and Jharkhand. Purchased concentrate feed was dominant across states, although Uttar Pradesh showed greater use of homemade concentrates. The average concentrate cost ranged from ₹14.38/kg in Bihar to ₹18.76/kg in Rajasthan. The findings indicate important nutritional gaps in smallholder dairy systems and support the need for region-specific feeding strategies, mineral supplementation programmes, fodder development initiatives, and extension interventions for sustainable dairy development in India.

Forest Livelihoods in Transition: An Analysis of NTFP Utilization and Income Differentials in Katghora Forest Division

Poonam Xess — 2026-07-02

Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) are important livelihood resources for forest-dependent communities and contribute to both household consumption and income generation. The present study examined NTFP utilisation and income differentials across seven ranges of the Katghora Forest Division. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 521 women involved in the collection and use of NTFPs. The study considered collection frequency, income generated, time spent, quantity harvested, distance travelled, sale value and consumption value. The results showed that the total economic value of NTFPs across all ranges was Rs. 65,351.4, comprising Rs. 38,998.7 from sales and Rs. 26,352.7 from household consumption. Pali recorded the highest total economic value at Rs. 10,970.3, followed by Kendai, Pasan and Chaitma, whereas Katghora recorded the lowest value at Rs. 4,043.7. The contribution of NTFPs to total income ranged from 5.3 per cent in Katghora to 7.0 per cent in Pali. Inter-range comparison showed limited variation in the number of collection days and distance travelled, but significant variation was observed in income, time spent and quantity collected. The overall mean income from NTFPs was Rs. 5,721.5, while the overall mean distance travelled was 2.6 km. The findings indicate that NTFPs provide supplementary income and subsistence support, although benefits vary across ranges. Region-specific planning, sustainable harvesting and improved support for women collectors may help strengthen livelihood security while maintaining forest resource sustainability.

Weather-Augmented Seasonal ARIMAX Modelling for Wholesale Chilli Price Forecasting in Telangana, India

Mopuri Ravindra Chary — 2026-07-02

This study developed and evaluated weather-augmented seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average with exogenous variables (ARIMAX) models for short-term forecasting of wholesale dry chilli prices in Telangana, India. Monthly wholesale chilli price data and station-level weather observations from April 2002 to February 2026 were analysed. Weather variables comprised total monthly rainfall, mean relative humidity, mean maximum temperature and mean minimum temperature. Exploratory analysis used descriptive statistics, time-series plots, seasonal decomposition and autocorrelation functions. Seasonal ARIMAX models with individual weather regressors were first estimated using selected lags, followed by a mixed-lagged model including all four weather variables. A seasonal ARIMA model without exogenous regressors served as the benchmark. Forecasting performance was assessed using root mean square error, mean absolute percentage error, and training and test-set comparisons. The chilli price series showed substantial variability, with a mean of 10067.1 rupees per quintal, standard deviation of 6438.6 and coefficient of variation of 64.0 per cent. Among individual weather-augmented models, the relative humidity model performed best, with a test RMSE of 3178.6 and test MAPE of 12.316 per cent. The mixed-lagged seasonal ARIMAX model also outperformed the seasonal ARIMA benchmark, recording a test RMSE of 3344.9 and test MAPE of 13.013 per cent. The findings indicate that selected lagged weather variables, particularly relative humidity and rainfall, improve short-term wholesale chilli price forecasting relative to a univariate seasonal ARIMA model.

Economic Valuation of Carbon Sequestration under Land Use Change: Implications from the Ukai Reservoir Watershed, India

Talib Mohammad — 2026-07-02

Land use and land cover (LULC) dynamics are a major determinant of carbon sequestration, a critical regulating ecosystem service with direct implications for climate mitigation and natural capital accounting. This study quantifies the biophysical and economic impacts of LULC change on carbon storage in the Ukai Reservoir watershed, India, using the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs (InVEST) model. High-resolution LULC datasets derived from the ESRI Land Cover product for 2017 and 2025 were used to estimate spatially explicit carbon stocks across four carbon pools. The results indicate a decline in total carbon storage from 10.56 million metric tons to 9.81 million metric tons over the study period, corresponding to a net loss of 0.75 million metric tons of carbon, primarily driven by a reduction in tree cover alongside expansion of rangeland and built-up areas. Economic valuation using a discounted cash flow framework reveals a net present value loss of USD 37.38 million, equivalent to an average deficit of USD 121.22 per hectare, highlighting the economic implications of changes in carbon-related ecosystem services. A scenario-based sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate potential restoration pathways over medium- to long-term horizons, indicating that moderate restoration interventions can yield carbon gains of approximately 0.25 million metric tons, while more intensive land-use reallocation can generate up to 0.78 million metric tons, with corresponding economic benefits of up to USD 31.45 million. The study is based on satellite-derived land-cover classifications and model-based carbon coefficients; therefore, the estimates represent spatially explicit approximations of carbon dynamics. Overall, the findings demonstrate the utility of integrating spatial modelling, economic valuation, and scenario analysis to support evidence-based land-use planning and climate policy.

Adoption Constraints and Strategic Priorities for Promoting Organic Farming in Telangana: A Garrett Ranking and Analytical Hierarchy Process Approach

B. Swetha — 2026-07-03

Organic farming is increasingly promoted as an environmentally sustainable agricultural approach, but its adoption is often constrained by economic, technological, institutional and market-related barriers. The present study identified and ranked the constraints faced by organic farmers and prioritised strategies for promoting organic farming in Telangana State, India. The study was conducted in Sangareddy and Warangal Urban districts, where 120 organic farmers were selected from eight villages using a multistage sampling procedure. Primary data were collected through a structured and pre-tested interview schedule during the agricultural year 2023–2024. Garrett’s ranking technique was used to rank the constraints perceived by farmers, while the Analytical Hierarchy Process was applied to prioritise strategies based on the opinions of selected officials and experts. The results showed that certification and marketing constraints were the most severe category, with a Garrett mean score of 67.91, followed by economic constraints (62.10) and technological constraints (57.18). Among economic constraints, initial yield loss during the conversion period ranked first, with a Garrett mean score of 70.75. Within certification and marketing constraints, the high cost of certification was the most important constraint, with a Garrett mean score of 59.06. Technological constraints were mainly associated with the lack of timely information on organic farming technologies and limited availability of organic inputs. The AHP results indicated that government support during the transition period was the highest-priority strategy, with a weight of 0.213, followed by simplified certification procedures (0.172) and improved marketing channels for organic produce (0.171).

Estimation of Heterosis for Yield and Yield-attributing Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.)

Anusha Galimudi — 2026-07-03

Heterosis breeding is an effective approach for improving grain yield and related traits in maize through the exploitation of hybrid vigour. Analysis of heterosis is essential for identifying superior parental combinations and developing high-yielding, climate-resilient hybrids, thereby contributing significantly to global maize productivity. The present investigation was conducted to estimate the magnitude of mid-parent heterosis, better-parent heterosis and standard heterosis for yield and yield-attributing traits in maize. Twelve diverse inbred lines comprising six lines and six testers were crossed in a line × tester mating design during kharif, 2021 to generate 36 F₁ hybrids. These hybrids, along with the commercial check DHM-117, were evaluated during rabi, 2021-22 across three locations in Telangana namely Rajendranagar, Karimnagar and Madhira, using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The pooled analysis of variance revealed significant genotype, location and genotype × environment interaction effects for all the traits studied, indicating the existence of substantial genetic variability and environmental influence on trait expression. Based on both per se performance and heterosis estimates for grain yield and its component traits, the hybrids PFSR-51 × MGC-137, BML-11 × PFSR-46, BML-20 × PFSR-129, GP-111 × PFSR-151 and BML-20 × PFSR-95 were identified as the most promising hybrid combinations. These hybrids exhibited superior mean performance coupled with significant positive standard heterosis in the range of 15-30% for grain yield, indicating their potential for commercial exploitation and utilization in future maize hybrid breeding programmes. However, these promising hybrids should be further evaluated across multiple seasons and environments to assess their stability and adaptability before their utilization in large-scale breeding programmes or commercial cultivation.

Yield Gap and Economic Impact of Frontline Demonstrations on Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in Akola District, Maharashtra, India

U. G. Thakare — 2026-07-03

Frontline demonstrations (FLDs) on chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) variety Phule Vikram were conducted during 2018–2021 in farmers’ fields in Akola district, Maharashtra, under the direct supervision of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Akola. The study evaluated the performance and feasibility of improved production technologies compared with farmers’ practices, with emphasis on yield gaps and economic returns. The demonstrated interventions included the use of the improved variety Phule Vikram, seed treatment with biofertilisers and fungicides, line sowing, balanced fertilisation, integrated pest management (IPM), and need-based protective irrigation. The results showed that demonstration plots recorded yields of 18.48–20.64 q/ha compared with 15.00–20.00 q/ha under farmers’ practices. The yield advantage over the check ranged from 3.20% to 23.30%. The technology gap ranged from 4.36 to 6.52 q/ha, while the extension gap varied from 0.64 to 3.54 q/ha, indicating scope for improving adoption through effective extension support. The economic analysis showed higher net returns and a favourable benefit-cost ratio under the demonstrated practices across the study period. Implementation was supported through farmer training, input distribution, and field monitoring by KVK Akola. The findings indicate that KVK-led FLDs can support the adoption of improved chickpea production technologies, enhance productivity, and improve farm-level profitability in Akola district.

Viability of Utilizing Paddy Straw Ash as a Supplementary Cementitious Material in M20 Concrete

Sarvesh Kumar — 2026-07-03

This study evaluates the feasibility of using paddy straw ash (PSA) as a supplementary cementitious material in M20 grade concrete. Paddy straw was converted into ash through controlled combustion at 600 ± 50 °C for 2 h, followed by grinding and sieving through a 90-micron sieve. Eleven concrete mixtures were prepared by replacing cement with PSA from 0% to 20% at 2% intervals. Fresh and hardened properties were assessed using slump, compressive strength at 7, 14 and 28 days, ultrasonic pulse velocity at 28 days, and drying shrinkage measurements. The incorporation of PSA progressively reduced workability, with slump decreasing from 95 mm in the control mix to 45 mm at 20% replacement, indicating increased water demand due to the porous and finer nature of the ash. Compressive strength improved up to an optimum replacement level of 8%, where the 28-day strength reached 36.95 MPa compared with 32.40 MPa for the control mix, corresponding to an increase of 14.04%. At higher replacement levels, strength gradually decreased, although all mixes achieved compressive strength above 20 MPa at 28 days. Ultrasonic pulse velocity followed a similar trend, with the highest value of 4.38 km/s recorded at 8% PSA, indicating improved internal compactness at moderate replacement levels. Drying shrinkage decreased consistently with increasing PSA content, from 585 microstrain in the control mix to 453 microstrain at 20% replacement. The results indicate that PSA can be used effectively as a partial cement replacement in M20 concrete, with 8% replacement providing the most balanced performance in terms of strength, quality and dimensional stability.

Farmers' Perception towards Organic Farming and Its Determinants in Telangana, India

Swetha Bandewale — 2026-07-03

Organic farming is increasingly recognised as a sustainable alternative to conventional agriculture due to its environmental, health, and economic benefits. The present study was conducted to examine farmers’ perception towards organic farming and the factors influencing these perceptions in Telangana, India. A total of 120 farmers, comprising 60 organic and 60 conventional farmers, were selected through a multistage sampling technique from Sangareddy and Warangal districts of Telangana and interviewed using a structured interview schedule. Farmers' perception, representing respondents' understanding and opinions regarding the benefits, challenges, and sustainability of organic farming, was measured using a validated ten-item perception scale. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, weighted mean score (WMS), Spearman’s rank correlation, and multiple linear regression analysis. The largest proportion of the respondents (47.50%) exhibited a medium level of perception towards organic farming. Organic farmers demonstrated relatively more favourable perceptions than conventional farmers, as indicated by the Mann–Whitney U test. Soil health improvement, better quality produce, and premium price realisation for organic produce were the most positively perceived aspects of organic farming. Annual income, extension contact, and market orientation emerged as the most influential determinants of farmers' perception towards organic farming, while landholding, farming experience, loan accessibility, risk orientation, and innovative proneness also significantly contributed to perception formation. Regression analysis indicated that annual income, extension contact, market orientation, and loan accessibility were the major determinants influencing farmers’ perception. The findings underscore the importance of strengthening extension services, improving market access and institutional credit, and promoting experiential learning approaches to foster favourable perceptions and facilitate wider adoption of organic farming.

Assessment of Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Gain for Waterlogging Tolerance Traits in Soybean Genotypes

Rishabh Mishra — 2026-07-03

Waterlogging is an important abiotic stress that can reduce soybean growth, nodulation, survival and seed yield under poorly drained field conditions. The present study evaluated variation among soybean genotypes for selected waterlogging tolerance traits under field conditions. Forty-five soybean genotypes were assessed in a randomised block design under waterlogged conditions. Observations were recorded for plant survival rate, stress tolerance index, reduction in root nodule dry weight per plant, reduction in seed yield per plant, waterlogging tolerance coefficient, seed yield per plant and biological yield per plant. The genotypes showed measurable variation for all assessed traits. Plant survival rate ranged from 83% to 89%, while the stress tolerance index varied from 60% to 79%. Reduction in root nodule dry weight per plant ranged from 25.40% to 44.19%, and reduction in seed yield per plant ranged from 18.85% to 40.52%. Waterlogging tolerance coefficient values ranged from 62.64 to 74.01. Seed yield per plant under waterlogged conditions varied from 9.1 to 15.8 g, while biological yield per plant ranged from 29 to 49 g. NRC 127 recorded the highest seed yield per plant and also showed high plant survival and stress tolerance index values. NRC 142, JS 21-72, NRC 258, DS 1570, AMS 2021-3 and RSC 1172 also showed favourable performance for one or more waterlogging tolerance-related traits. The results indicate useful variability among the evaluated soybean genotypes. These genotypes may be considered for further screening and use in breeding programmes after confirmation across seasons and locations.

Growth and Decomposition Analysis of Area, Production and Yield of Maize in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

Shivanshi Mankotia — 2026-07-04

The present study examined the growth, instability and decomposition of maize area, production and productivity in Udaipur district of Rajasthan. The analysis was based on secondary data for 20 years from 2003-04 to 2022-23, collected from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics, India. For analytical clarity, the study period was divided into Period I (2003-04 to 2012-13), Period II (2013-14 to 2022-23) and the overall period (2003-04 to 2022-23). Compound annual growth rate, coefficient of variation, Cuddy-Della Valle Instability Index and the Minhas and Vaidyanathan decomposition model were used to assess temporal changes and the relative contribution of area, yield and their interaction to maize production growth. The compound annual growth rate for maize area was negative during all periods and was significant at the 1 per cent level during Period II (-1.37%) and the overall period (-0.94%). Production recorded positive but statistically non-significant growth of 1.21%, 1.53% and 0.52% during Period I, Period II and the overall period, respectively. Productivity also increased non-significantly by 1.53%, 2.94% and 1.47% across the same periods. Instability measured through the coefficient of variation was highest in production during Period I (29.43%) and highest in productivity during Period II (24.69%) and the overall period (26.58%). Under the Cuddy-Della Valle Index, production and productivity showed high instability during Period I, while moderate instability was observed during Period II and the overall period. Decomposition analysis indicated that the yield effect was the major contributor during Period I and the overall period, whereas the interaction effect dominated during Period II.

Assessing the Socio Economic Status of Mustard Farmers in Hamirpur District of Bundelkhand Region of Uttar Pradesh, India

Tausif Raza — 2026-07-04

The present study assessed the socio-economic status of mustard farmers in Hamirpur district of the Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh and examined the role of mustard cultivation in supporting rural livelihoods. Primary data were collected from 80 randomly selected mustard farmers across eight villages in Kurara and Maudaha blocks using a structured survey schedule. The survey covered landholding, age, education, annual income, farming experience, family size, gender composition, occupation, cropping pattern, family type, farm machinery, housing, sanitation, drinking-water source, cooking fuel and electricity access. The results showed that most respondents belonged to the medium (33.75 per cent) and semi-medium (32.50 per cent) farm-size categories. The largest age group was 46–60 years (36.25 per cent), and 52.50 per cent of farmers had more than 20 years of farming experience. Agriculture was the main livelihood activity, with 61.25 per cent of respondents depending solely on agriculture. The most common annual income range from mustard was Rs. 100,001–200,000, reported by 31.25 per cent of respondents. Joint families were predominant (68.75 per cent), and tractors and cultivators were the most commonly owned farm implements. The findings also indicated access to semi-pucca and pucca housing, LPG connections, private sanitation and grid electricity among most households. The study provides district-level evidence on the socio-economic profile and household conditions of mustard farmers in the selected area.

Innovation Attributes and Dairy Farm Women’s Perceptions of Milk-Based Value-Added Practices: Evidence from Mathura District, Uttar Pradesh, India

Pushpa Gautam — 2026-07-06

Dairy farming plays a significant role in the rural economy, and women are actively involved in key activities such as milking, feeding, processing and marketing dairy products. Understanding their perceptions of value-added practices helps identify their awareness, acceptance, challenges and willingness to adopt innovative dairy processing techniques. This study aimed to analyse dairy farm women’s perceptions of milk value addition and associated economic opportunities. The study was conducted in 2024 to assess the perceptions of dairy farm women in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh towards milk-based value-added practices. From the district, five blocks were selected, followed by the selection of two villages from each block. Finally, 15 dairy farm women were selected from each village using a random sampling technique, yielding a total sample size of 150 respondents. Respondents were selected based on two criteria: owning at least one dairy animal and processing at least one dairy product. Data were collected using a pre-tested, well-structured interview schedule. Respondents’ perceptions were measured using a five-point Likert continuum scale. The analysis revealed that dairy farm women exhibited a highly positive perception towards the production and utilisation of dairy-based value-added products. This favourable outlook was driven by perceived profitability, improved market opportunities and effective utilisation of milk resources. Their perceptions were further enhanced by factors such as trialability, compatibility and observability, whereas the complexities involved in processing and marketing served as major barriers. Consequently, this favourable outlook suggests substantial potential for enhancing women’s participation in value-addition activities within the dairy sector. The findings further indicate that women engaged in dairy farming possess significant opportunities for economic empowerment and entrepreneurship, particularly in countries such as India, where they constitute nearly 70% of dairying activities. Harnessing this positive disposition through appropriate capacity-building initiatives, access to resources and institutional support could facilitate the wider adoption of value-added dairy practices, thereby contributing to improved livelihoods, increased household incomes and sustainable development of the dairy sector.

Effect of Feeding Subabul (Leucaena leucocephala) Leaf Meal on the Feed Intake and Growth Performance of Broiler Chicken

Tanmoy Medhi — 2026-07-06

The present study evaluated the effects of graded dietary inclusion of subabul (Leucaena leucocephala) leaf meal on feed intake, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR) in broiler chickens. A total of 180 day-old straight-run commercial broiler chicks were randomly allotted to four dietary treatment groups, with 45 birds per group and three replicates of 15 birds each. The feeding trial lasted 42 days. The control group (T₀) received a standard broiler ration formulated according to ICAR (2013) specifications, while T₁, T₂ and T₃ received the basal diet supplemented with 5%, 10% and 15% subabul leaf meal, respectively. Feed was offered twice daily, and feed intake was determined from the difference between the quantity of feed offered and the residual feed collected from the feeders. Weekly live weight gain was calculated by subtracting the previous week's body weight from the current week's body weight. Weekly and total feed intake, weekly and total body weight gain and FCR were calculated throughout the experimental period. The results showed significant differences in weekly feed intake, weekly and total body weight gain and FCR among the treatment groups. The highest total feed intake and total body weight gain were recorded in T₀, whereas the lowest values were observed in T₃. The lowest FCR was observed in T₀, and T₁, whereas the highest FCR was observed in T₃. The gradual reduction in total body weight gain and feed intake, together with increased FCR at higher inclusion levels, may be associated with anti-nutritional factors such as mimosine and the higher fibre content of the diet. The findings indicate that inclusion of subabul leaf meal up to 5% did not adversely affect growth performance and total feed intake, whereas higher inclusion levels were associated with reduced feed consumption and poorer growth performance in broiler chickens.

Dynamics of Millet Farming in India: Growth Performance, Structural Shifts and Spatial Production Clusters

D B Hemanth — 2026-07-08

Background: Millets are important climate-resilient nutri-cereals in India, yet their production dynamics vary considerably across crops and states.

Aims: This study aims to examine the growth performance, variability, structural changes and spatial distribution of major millet crops (Bajra, Ragi, Jowar and Small Millets) across major producing states of India during 2000–2022.

Study Design: This study adopted a quantitative and analytical design based on secondary time-series data.

Place and Duration of Study: State-level data on the area, production and productivity of millets for the period 2000–2022 were obtained from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES), Government of India.

Methodology: Growth performance was estimated using growth rates, while variability was measured through the coefficient of variation (CV). The Bai–Perron structural break test was employed to identify significant changes in production trends over time. Spatial hotspot analysis was used to examine the geographical concentration and clustering patterns of millet production across states.

Results: The findings indicated a decline in the area under millet cultivation across states, while improvements in productivity helped sustain production levels. Madhya Pradesh recorded the highest production growth in Bajra (7.48%), Andhra Pradesh exhibited the highest productivity growth in Jowar (6.11%), and Arunachal Pradesh was the only state to register positive growth in area (1.42%), production (2.28%) and productivity (0.87%) of Small Millets. Variability analysis revealed substantial production instability, with the highest production variability observed in Madhya Pradesh for Bajra (56.13%), Andhra Pradesh for Ragi (38.23%), Telangana for Jowar (58.38%) and Karnataka for Small Millets (45.10%). The Bai–Perron test identified significant structural breaks across crops and states, indicating the influence of technological advancements, policy interventions and climatic variability. Spatial analysis revealed persistent production hotspots for Bajra in Rajasthan, Jowar in Maharashtra and Karnataka, Ragi in Karnataka, and Small Millets in Madhya Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh.

Conclusion: The results highlight considerable regional differences in millet production dynamics, with productivity improvements playing an important role in sustaining production despite the declining cultivated area. The persistence of production hotspots and the presence of structural shifts indicate the need for region-specific strategies to enhance the sustainability and resilience of millet production systems.

Haemato-biochemical Alterations and Therapeutic Management of Hypothyroidism in Dogs

R. K. Khinchi — 2026-07-08

Canine hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder associated with clinical, haemato-biochemical and hormonal alterations. This study evaluated clinical manifestations, laboratory changes and therapeutic response in dogs diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Dogs presented with clinical signs suggestive of hypothyroidism, including symmetrical alopecia, sparse coat, dry and brittle hair, rat-tail appearance, seborrhoea, pyoderma and obesity, were examined at the Veterinary Clinical Complex. Diagnosis was based on history, clinical examination, haemato-biochemical evaluation and thyroid profile assessment. Six hypothyroid dogs were compared with six clinically healthy, dewormed and vaccinated control dogs. The most frequent clinical signs in affected dogs were obesity and bilateral symmetrical alopecia, followed by rat-tail appearance, secondary skin infection, reduced exercise tolerance, pruritus and dry, dull coat. Hypothyroid dogs showed reduced haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, total erythrocyte count, total T4 and total T3 concentrations, with increased thyroid-stimulating hormone concentration. Total leucocyte count, neutrophil percentage, alkaline phosphatase, triglycerides and cholesterol were also increased. Following confirmation of diagnosis, affected dogs received oral levothyroxine sodium at 0.02 mg/kg body weight once daily, along with symptomatic and supportive treatment. Clinical improvement was observed within 4 to 8 weeks, including improved activity, hair regrowth and body condition. These findings indicate that combined clinical, haemato-biochemical and thyroid profile assessment is useful for diagnosis and monitoring of hypothyroidism in dogs.

Development of D-limonene Rich Dip Tea Sachet Using Acid Lime Peel Powder

G. Sudha Devi — 2026-07-08

Acid lime peel is a citrus-processing by-product containing volatile compounds of sensory importance, including D-limonene. This study aimed to develop a citrus-based dip tea sachet using acid lime peel powder blended with pretreated tea powder and to evaluate its drying behaviour, selected physicochemical characteristics, sensory acceptability, and D-limonene retention. Fresh acid lime peels were washed, defibred, tray-dried at 50 ± 1 °C and 15 ± 1% relative humidity, ground, sieved through 60 mesh, and blended with pretreated tea powder in different proportions. The sachets were infused in 100 mL hot water at 90 °C for 30 s. Drying characteristics were assessed using moisture content, drying rate, and moisture ratio. Product quality was evaluated through colour measurement, vitamin C estimation, sensory evaluation using a 9-point hedonic scale, and GC-MS-based estimation of D-limonene. During tray drying, the moisture content of acid lime peel decreased from 75.80% to 2.55% on a wet basis, while the drying rate gradually declined, indicating falling-rate drying behaviour. Among the prepared formulations, B2 showed comparatively favourable sensory scores for colour, flavour, taste, tartness, and overall acceptability. The optimised formulation provided a balanced citrus-tea sensory profile. The dried peel powder contained 6.1 mg/g D-limonene, and D-limonene was detected in the optimised infusion. The findings indicate that acid lime peel powder can be used as an ingredient for preparing a sensory-acceptable dip tea sachet. Further validation is required to assess storage stability, volatile retention during shelf life, and consumer acceptability on a larger scale.

Evaluation of Different Rice Varieties for Their Resistance Level against Rice Tungro Disease

A. Vedasree — 2026-07-08

Rice tungro disease is a major viral disease that constrains rice production, especially when infection occurs during early crop growth. The present study evaluated the phenotypic reaction of 24 rice varieties, along with TN1 as the susceptible check and Vikramarya as the resistant check, against rice tungro disease under controlled glasshouse conditions at the Pathology glasshouse, ICAR-Indian Institute of Rice Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, during 2023–24. Screening was conducted using the Standard Seedbox Screening Test with viruliferous green leafhoppers as vectors. Seedlings were inoculated at 15 days after sowing and evaluated 21 days after inoculation using the Standard Evaluation System (IRRI, 2013) disease-scoring scale. Disease index values were used to classify entries as resistant, moderately resistant or susceptible. The susceptible check TN1 showed high disease expression, confirming effective disease pressure during screening. Among the evaluated entries, Utri Rajapan, Utri Merah, ARC11554, Pankhari 203, TKM-6, Kataribhog, Tjempo Kijik recorded disease index values of 3.0, comparable with the resistant check Vikramarya, and were classified as resistant. Several entries, including ARC 12596, MTU 1010, ASD-8, Prasanna, IR-8, IR-22, Tampha Phou, Hassany, Barah, KNM 118 and JGL24423 has showed moderately resistant. The rice cultivars Pusa Basmati, Tapaswini, , DR29, RJNRH-10, RNR15048 and KNM 1638 were classified as susceptible. The results identify potential resistant donor entries that may be useful in rice breeding programmes, although further validation under field and molecular screening conditions is required.

Profitability and Resource use Efficiency of Dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.) Farming in Karnataka: A Data Envelopment Analysis Study

V. Vishnupriya — 2026-07-08

Aims: The present study aimed to evaluate the profitability and resource use efficiency of dragon fruit farming in Karnataka using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and to identify the sources of technical and scale inefficiencies affecting farm performance.

Study Design: A cross-sectional analytical study employing an input-oriented Data Envelopment Analysis framework.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in four major dragon fruit-growing districts of Karnataka, namely Tumakuru, Chitradurga, Bengaluru, and Chikkaballapur, during the agricultural year 2023–24.

Methodology: Primary data were collected from 180 respondents, comprising 80 dragon fruit farmers, 40 intermediaries and 60 dragon fruit consumers, through personal interviews using a structured interview schedule. Profitability was assessed using cost and return analysis along with investment appraisal indicators. Resource-use efficiency was estimated using input-oriented Constant Returns to Scale (CRS) and Variable Returns to Scale (VRS) DEA models. Scale efficiency, input slack analysis and returns-to-scale classification were employed to identify sources of inefficiency.

Results: The establishment cost of dragon fruit cultivation was ₹3,54,249 per acre, while mature orchards generated an average annual net return of ₹4,04,364 per acre with a Benefit-Cost Ratio of 1.98, Net Present Value of ₹14,81,631.94, Internal Rate of Return of 47%, and a payback period of 3.75 years, indicating high economic viability. The mean technical, pure technical, and scale efficiency scores were 0.78, 0.88, and 0.84, respectively. Most farms (71.25%) operated under increasing returns to scale, with human labour and fertilizer identified as the major inefficiently utilized inputs.

Conclusion: Dragon fruit cultivation is a profitable and economically viable enterprise in Karnataka. Improving resource-use efficiency, particularly labour and fertiliser utilisation, can further enhance farm productivity and profitability.

Assessment of Hybridization Efficiency and Cross-specific Success Rate in an 8-Parent Half Diallel Population of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Neeraj Kumar — 2026-07-09

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) breeding is often constrained by low crossing success, which limits the recovery of adequate F1 seed for subsequent selection. This study assessed hybridisation efficiency and cross-specific success rate in an 8-parent half-diallel population of chickpea. Eight diverse parental genotypes were crossed in 28 non-reciprocal combinations during the Rabi 2024–25 season. Manual emasculation followed by immediate hand pollination was carried out between 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM from January to March, with comparatively better success observed during February. A total of 3,716 emasculation and pollination attempts were made, from which 398 successful pods were obtained, giving an overall crossing success rate of 10.71%. Considerable variation was observed among cross combinations, with success rates ranging from 4.62% to 21.21%. The highest success rate was recorded in BGM 20211(C) × Pusa Chickpea 10216(C), which produced 28 pods from 132 attempts and yielded 48 F1 seeds. The lowest success rate was observed in (GAG 1107 × NBeG 738) × RKGD 21-2, with 5 pods from 108 attempts. These results indicate that hybridisation success in chickpea is strongly influenced by parental compatibility. Identifying more compatible crosses may help breeders improve F1 seed recovery while reducing labour, time and resource requirements.

Development and Validation of Comprehensive Psychosocial Well-Being and Coping Scale (CPWCS) For Adolescents

Ritika Pandey — 2026-07-09

Adolescence is a developmental stage marked by emotional, psychological, social and functional changes that influence well-being and coping. This study aimed to develop and preliminarily validate the Comprehensive Psychosocial Well-Being and Coping Scale (CPWCS) for adolescents. The scale was designed to assess six domains of psychosocial well-being: emotional well-being, psychological flourishing, existential fulfilment, social health, psychological tranquillity and functional well-being, along with two coping domains, active coping ability and avoidant coping ability. An initial pool of 80 items was prepared based on theoretical concepts, a literature review and expert suggestions. The response format included three options: Agree, Neutral and Disagree. Content validation was conducted by a panel of nine experts from Human Development and Family Studies, Psychology, Statistics, Extension Education and Food Science and Nutrition. Expert ratings indicated strong agreement on item relevance, clarity, simplicity and representativeness, with an overall mean content validity rating of 4.68. The scale was further pilot-tested among 60 adolescents aged 13–18 years, including 30 boys and 30 girls selected from Ayodhya district. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. The overall reliability coefficient was 0.93, while dimension-wise reliability coefficients ranged from 0.92 to 0.94. The findings provide preliminary evidence that the CPWCS may be useful for assessing psychosocial well-being and coping patterns among adolescents. Further validation with larger and more diverse samples is required.

Decision Making of Farm Women in Chilli Cultivation: A Correlational Study, in Telangana, India

Maloth Girija Sri — 2026-07-09

Women play a vital role in agricultural production, particularly in labour-intensive crops such as chilli. However, socioeconomic and cultural factors often restrict their participation in farm decision-making. The present study was conducted in Bhadradri Kothagudem district of Telangana to assess the decision-making ability of farm women involved in chilli cultivation and to examine the factors associated with their decision-making behaviour. A random sample of 120 farm women was selected from eight villages in two mandals. Primary data were collected using a structured interview schedule and analysed through frequency, percentage and correlation analyses. The results revealed that 51.6 per cent of the respondents had a medium level of decision-making, followed by 38.3 per cent with a low level and 10.1 per cent with a high level. Farm women participated in several cultivation operations, including nursery raising, transplanting, intercultural operations, plant protection and harvesting. However, their participation in strategic decisions related to input procurement, credit, marketing and technology adoption remained moderate. Education, marital status, social participation, mass media exposure, scientific orientation and economic motivation showed positive and highly significant relationships with decision-making behaviour. Age, family size, family type, landholding, annual income, occupation and extension participation showed non-significant relationships. The findings indicate that strengthening women's education, access to information, social participation and exposure to scientific agricultural practices may improve their participation in chilli cultivation decisions.

Enhancing Triclosan Removal from Wastewater Using Free and Immobilized Bacteria

Sakshi Patil — 2026-07-09

Triclosan (TCS), a widely used pharmaceutical and personal care product (PPCP), has emerged as a significant environmental contaminant due to its widespread occurrence and associated ecological risks. Conventional wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) processes are often ineffective in completely removing TCS, emphasizing the need for more efficient and cost-effective treatment approaches. In the present study, bacterial isolates obtained from wastewater were evaluated for their ability to remove TCS at a concentration of 2 mg L^-1 using free cells, microbial consortia, and immobilized systems. Three bacterial strains, namely Bacillus pumilus, Bacillus licheniformis, and Pseudomonas stutzeri, along with a consortium consisting of B. pumilus and B. licheniformis, were investigated for their TCS removal efficiency. Among the tested isolates, B. pumilus exhibited rapid removal of TCS, achieving approximately 90 % removal within 3 h. The microbial consortia showed enhanced performance compared to individual strains, reducing TCS concentrations to below the analytical detection limit. Furthermore, immobilized bacterial systems significantly improved the removal efficiency, indicating greater stability and sustained metabolic activity compared to free cells. Overall, the findings suggest that wastewater derived bacteria, particularly when employed as consortia and immobilized systems, represent a promising approach for the treatment of TCS contaminated wastewater.

Comparative Evaluation of Whey Protein Concentrate-based Microencapsulation of Flaxseed Oil as a Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Characterization and Morphological Analysis

J P Rathod — 2026-07-09

The microencapsulation of flaxseed oil, a rich plant-based source of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly α-linolenic acid, was comparatively evaluated using spray-drying technology. Three fixed food-grade wall-material systems were formulated and analysed: whey protein concentrate with lactose (FO/WPC/L), maltodextrin with lactose (FO/MD/L), and gelatin with lactose (FO/Gelatin/L). Oil-in-water emulsions were homogenised at a high pressure of 241.31 bar and subsequently spray-dried using an inlet temperature of 182 °C and an outlet temperature of 75 °C. The morphological characteristics of the resulting microcapsules were assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The FO/WPC/L microcapsules showed superior structural integrity, with smooth, intact and spherical external surfaces without visible cracks or fissures. Internally, the FO/WPC/L formulation presented a dense and homogeneous structure, indicating effective oil entrapment and favourable barrier properties against oxidative degradation. Conversely, the FO/MD/L and FO/Gelatin/L formulations displayed irregular external surfaces, highly porous internal matrices and evidence of structural collapse, reflecting lower encapsulation performance. The structural features of the FO/WPC/L microcapsules may be attributed to the amphiphilic nature of whey proteins and Maillard-mediated protein–carbohydrate interactions between WPC and lactose, which collectively enhance interfacial film strength and restrict oxygen permeability. Based on these morphological findings, the FO/WPC/L formulation was identified as the most suitable matrix for the microencapsulation of flaxseed oil. This study provides visual and structural evidence supporting WPC-based microcapsules as a delivery system for incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into functional foods, including value-added poultry and meat products.

The Empirical Analysis of Investor Behavioral Biases and Their Predictive Impact on Total Bias

R. Sukanya — 2026-07-09

This study examines the prevalence and predictive impact of investor behavioural biases on aggregate decision-making distortions, referred to as Total Bias. A quantitative research design was adopted, and primary data were collected from 360 investors using a structured questionnaire and a combination of convenience and purposive sampling. The study investigated thirteen behavioural biases, including overconfidence, loss aversion, anchoring, herding, availability, regret aversion, hindsight, cognitive aversion and self-attribution. Data were analysed using one-sample t-tests, Pearson correlation analysis and stepwise multiple regression. The findings revealed that most behavioural biases had significantly lower observed mean scores than the expected benchmark values, indicating systematic deviations from rational decision-making. Correlation analysis showed that herding bias (R = .599, p < .001), regret aversion bias (R = .568, p < .001) and cognitive aversion bias (R = .536, p < .001) had the strongest positive relationships with Total Bias. Stepwise regression identified herding bias as the most influential predictor, followed by self-attribution, cognitive aversion, anchoring and regret aversion biases. The inclusion of successive biases substantially improved the explanatory power of the model, culminating in a near-perfect fit (R² = 1.00). The study highlights the interconnected influence of cognitive and emotional biases on investor behaviour and contributes to the growing behavioural finance literature. The findings offer practical implications for investors, financial advisers, portfolio managers and policymakers by emphasising the need for investor education, behavioural awareness programmes and bias-mitigation strategies to improve investment decision-making and promote market efficiency.

In-silico Comparison of Predicted 16S rRNA Secondary Structure in Strains of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. Punicae: A Preliminary Note

J. Thanuja — 2026-07-10

This study evaluates the predicted secondary structure and structural alignment of 16S rRNA sequences from two previously reported strains of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. punicae, designated Xa1 and Xa2, together with selected representative Xanthomonas sequences. The analysis was performed using publicly available in silico RNA structure-prediction and alignment tools. The 16S rRNA sequence of each strain was compared with the NCBI reference sequence NR_026317.1, and RNA folding patterns were examined to assess possible structural differences between the strains. The predicted thermodynamic ensemble free energy (dG) was -259.03 kcal/mol for Xa1 and -249.87 kcal/mol for Xa2, indicating that Xa1 had a comparatively more thermodynamically stable predicted structure. The dG values of the other Xanthomonas sequences also varied with changes in predicted RNA structure. Foldalign-based structural comparison suggested that Xa2 had several regions of similarity, insertion/deletion and structurally stable motifs, indicating structural divergence relative to the reference sequence, whereas Xa1 showed a more contiguous alignment with regions of shared base pairs and motifs. The Xa2 result differed from the other Xanthomonas alignments. These observations indicate that variation in 16S rRNA sequence composition may be associated with differences in predicted folding patterns among closely related strains. The findings support RNA secondary-structure prediction as a complementary approach for examining strain-level variation in bacterial 16S rRNA. However, because the results are based solely on computational prediction, further experimental validation and broader comparative analysis are required.

Spring Inventory and Sustainability in the Northwestern Himalaya: Environmental Drivers, Degradation Patterns and Implications for Water Security

Vijeta Thakur — 2026-07-10

Mountain springs are important freshwater sources in the Indian Himalayan Region, supporting drinking water supply, agriculture and ecosystems; however, their sustainability is increasingly affected by climate variability and anthropogenic land-use change. This study provides a district-scale inventory and status assessment of springs in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, India, with emphasis on distribution, functional condition and surrounding land-use association. A field survey was conducted across all 11 development blocks to document spring locations, spring condition and associated land use/land cover. A total of 1,401 springs were inventoried, with block-wise counts ranging from 99 in Chauntra to 157 in Balh and an average of 127.36 ± 18.01 springs. Overall, 38.0% of springs were perennial, 39.9% were seasonal and 22.1% were dried up. The highest proportion of perennial springs was recorded in Chauntra (47%), followed by Drang (41%), whereas Sundernagar recorded the lowest proportion (31%). Seasonal springs were dominant in Sundernagar and Seraj (44%), and dried-up springs reached 25% in Mandi, Balh and Dharampur blocks. Perennial springs were mostly associated with agricultural (63-91%) and forested landscapes, whereas many dried-up springs in several blocks were associated with built-up areas. The findings indicate the need to protect recharge zones, conserve forested catchments, promote sustainable agricultural practices and integrate spring inventories into watershed management for improved mountain water security.

Culturable Soil Fungal Diversity and Agroecosystem Ecology in Lateritic and Alluvial Zones of West Bengal, India: A Comparative Study of Agricultural and Garden Soils

Salini Banik — 2026-07-10

Aim: The present study aimed to assess and compare culturable soil fungal diversity, abundance, evenness, and dominance pattern in agricultural and garden soils of two contrasting agro-ecological zones of West Bengal, India.

Study Design: The study was designed as a comparative ecological assessment of soil fungal communities across two soil types, namely lateritic soil and alluvial soil, and two land-use conditions, namely agricultural soil and garden soil.

Place and Duration of the Study: The study was carried out in selected sites of Purulia district, representing the lateritic soil zone, and Hooghly district, representing the alluvial soil zone of West Bengal. Soil samples were collected during the main paddy cultivation period in June and August.

Methodology: Rhizospheric soil samples were collected from agricultural and garden soils of both lateritic and alluvial zones. Fungi were isolated from the collected soil samples and identified based on colony characters and microscopic features. The number of fungal colonies was recorded for each taxon. Species richness, total abundance, Shannon diversity index, evenness, Simpson index of diversity, and Berger-Parker dominance index were used to compare fungal community structure among the four soil categories.

Results: A total of 22 culturable fungal morphotypes were recorded from the studied soils. The major recorded genera included Penicillium, Aspergillus, Rhizopus, Trichoderma, Fusarium, Mucor, Curvularia, Bipolaris, Cladosporium, and Cunninghamella. Total fungal colony abundance was higher in garden soil than agricultural soil in both zones. In lateritic soil, garden soil recorded 586 colonies, while agricultural soil recorded 320 colonies. In alluvial soil, garden soil recorded 728 colonies, while agricultural soil recorded 404 colonies. Shannon diversity was also higher in garden soils, with values of 2.477 in lateritic garden soil and 2.606 in alluvial garden soil, compared to 2.011 and 2.18 in lateritic and alluvial agricultural soils respectively. Berger-Parker dominance was lower in garden soils, indicating a more balanced fungal community structure than agricultural soils.

Conclusion: The study indicates that garden soils support higher culturable fungal abundance and diversity than agricultural soils in both lateritic and alluvial agro-ecological zones. Alluvial garden soil showed the highest fungal abundance and Shannon diversity, while lateritic agricultural soil showed the lowest values. The lower dominance values in garden soils suggest better community balance and greater fungal heterogeneity. Therefore, soil fungal diversity can be used as an important ecological indicator for assessing soil biological condition and agroecosystem health in contrasting soil zones of West Bengal.

Evaluation of the Effects of Preservation Methods on the Physical, Sensory Quality Attributes and Microbial Activity of Eri Silkworm (Samia ricini D.) Pupae

R. D. Shelhring Anal — 2026-07-10

Eri silkworm pupae, Samia ricini (Donovan), are a nutrient-rich by-product of eri silk production and are traditionally consumed in parts of North-East India. However, their high perishability limits storage, utilisation, and value addition. The present study evaluated the effects of three preservation methods on the physical, sensory, and microbial quality attributes of eri pupae during 30 days of ambient storage. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomised design (CRD) with three treatments and three replications. Physical and sensory attributes were assessed by a trained five-member panel at five-day intervals using a five-point hedonic scale, while microbial quality was evaluated through colony enumeration and Gram staining. All treatments maintained high sensory acceptability up to 10 days of storage. Thereafter, quality declined more rapidly in T₁ and T₂, whereas T₃ (10% brine cooking + 5% salt + 10% vinegar) retained superior quality throughout the storage period. T₃ recorded the highest overall sensory score (4.44 ± 0.90), significantly higher than T₁ (3.06 ± 1.73) and T₂ (3.00 ± 1.70). Preliminary microbial assessment after 30 days indicated lower colony development in T₃ compared with the other treatments. The results indicate that the combined use of brine, salt, and vinegar can effectively improve the short-term preservation and sensory quality of eri silkworm pupae under ambient storage conditions. Further studies involving detailed microbial quantification and large-scale validation are required before commercial application.

Combining Ability and Heterosis Studies in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

B. V. Ravi Prakash Reddy — 2026-07-11

Sunflower is an important oilseed crop, and the development of productive hybrids depends on the identification of suitable parental lines and superior cross combinations. The present investigation was carried out to identify the best general combiners among the parental lines and hybrids with good specific combining ability and heterosis for yield and its component traits. The study evaluated four cytoplasmic male-sterile lines, six fertility restorer lines and 24 experimental hybrids during Kharif 2024 at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Nandyal. The analysis of variance showed a significant line × tester interaction for all traits except plant height. Among the lines, NDCMS 30A was identified as the best general combiner for days to 50% flowering, 100-seed weight and seed yield. Among the testers, NDI 55 was identified as the best general combiner for days to 50% flowering and seed yield. Among the hybrids evaluated, NDCMS 30A × NDI 55 and CMS 234A × NDI 36 recorded significant specific combining ability effects for 100-seed weight and seed yield. Furthermore, the heterosis estimates of 24 hybrids for yield traits revealed that NDCMS 30A × NDI 55 and CMS 148A × NDLR 32 showed significant positive heterobeltosis and standard heterosis for seed yield. The study revealed that NDCMS 30A × NDI 55, CMS 234A × NDI 36 and CMS 148A × NDLR 32 were promising in terms of specific combining ability and heterosis and may be further exploited for the development of inbred lines and the improvement of hybrid vigour in sunflower.

A Comparative Study of Linear and Machine Learning Models for Wheat Price Forecasting in Gujarat, India

Sohilali R. Saiyad — 2026-07-11

Time series modelling and forecasting is a vibrant research field that has attracted the interest of the scientific community in recent decades. Forecasts of agricultural prices are proposed to be useful for farmers, governments, policy makers and agribusiness industries. In this study, an effort is made to compare the forecasting capabilities of well-known linear ARIMA models, ANN models, RNN models and Hybrid (ARIMA-ANN) models using data on weekly prices of wheat crop of Gujarat. In Dahod (2002 to 2023), Gondal (2003 to 2023) and Rajkot (2001 to 2023). Data were collected from the Agmarknet portal of the Government of India and converted into weekly averages. The dataset was split into 80 per cent for training and 20 per cent for testing. The Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) test was used to assess stationarity and the Brock-Dechert-Scheinkman (BDS) test was employed to detect nonlinearity in the price series. Results of the ADF test confirmed non-stationarity in original series, which became stationary after first-order differencing, while the BDS test confirmed significant nonlinear patterns (p < 0.001) across all markets and embedding dimensions. The forecasting performance of these models was evaluated using Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) and Mean Square Error (MSE). Results showed that the RNN model outperformed all other models across all three markets of wheat crop, achieving the lowest error values. For wheat, the RNN recorded MAPE values of 2.98 per cent (Dahod), 2.89 per cent (Gondal) and 2.60 per cent (Rajkot). The ANN ranked second, followed by the Hybrid ARIMA-ANN and ARIMA models. Key findings revealed that the RNN model outperformed each individual ARIMA, ANN and Hybrid model for forecasting weekly prices of wheat crops all three market in Gujarat.

Economic Viability and Profitability of Inland Fish Farming in West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh, India

Mangalapuri Pavani — 2026-07-11

The study assessed the economic viability and profitability of inland fish farming in West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Primary data were collected from 90 inland fish farmers selected through a multistage random sampling procedure. Cost concepts, farm efficiency measures and discounted cash-flow indicators were used to evaluate the financial performance of inland fish production under the prevailing cost and price conditions. The estimated Cost C₂ was Rs. 5,97,042.94 per hectare. Variable costs accounted for Rs. 4,07,025.85 per hectare, representing 68.17 per cent of total cost, whereas fixed costs accounted for Rs. 1,90,017.09 per hectare, representing 31.83 per cent. Feed cost was the largest expenditure component, contributing 39.35 per cent of total cost, followed by the rental value of owned land and human labour. The average yield was 7,343.06 kg per hectare, with gross income of Rs. 7,29,600.44 per hectare and net income of Rs. 72,853.20 per hectare. Farm business income, family labour income and farm investment income were estimated at Rs. 3,41,334.50, Rs. 1,79,462.50 and Rs. 2,34,725.20 per hectare, respectively. The net present value was positive at Rs. 3,08,056.10 per hectare, while the benefit-cost ratio was 1.09 and the internal rate of return was 31.12 per cent. The findings indicate that inland fish farming was financially viable for the sampled farmers, subject to effective management of input costs and market price fluctuations.

Effect of Feeding Diets Containing Ginger Oil on Growth Performance, Nutrient Utilization and Carcass Characteristics in Broiler Chicken under the Agro-climatic Conditions of Assam, India

Koustav Saikia — 2026-07-11

This study evaluated the effects of dietary ginger oil supplementation on growth performance, nutrient utilisation and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens under the agro-climatic conditions of Assam. A total of 180 one-day-old Cobb 400Y broiler chicks were randomly allotted to four dietary treatment groups, with 45 chicks per group and three replicates of 15 chicks each. The control group (T0) received standard pre-starter, starter and finisher diets without ginger oil, whereas the treatment groups received the same basal diets supplemented with ginger essential oil at 100 mg/kg (T1), 150 mg/kg (T2) and 200 mg/kg (T3) feed. The feeding trial was conducted for 42 days, followed by a six-day metabolism trial. Growth performance, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus retention, and carcass characteristics were recorded and statistically analysed. Final body weight and total body weight gain were highest in T2 and lowest in the control group, with significant (P<0.05) differences between T2 and T0 and T3. The overall feed conversion ratio was numerically improved in the ginger oil-supplemented groups, with the lowest value observed in T2. Dry matter digestibility was significantly (P<0.05) higher in T2 than in the control group. Crude protein metabolisability was highest in T3, while nitrogen retention improved in the ginger oil-supplemented groups compared with the control. Dressing percentage, breast muscle weight and thigh muscle weight were also higher in the supplemented groups, with the most favourable overall carcass response observed in T2. Abdominal fat, giblet weight and lymphoid organ weight did not differ significantly among groups. It is concluded that ginger oil supplementation at 150 mg/kg feed may improve growth performance, dry matter utilisation and selected carcass traits in broiler chickens under the conditions of this experiment.

Enhancing Wheat Yield and Nitrogen Use Efficiency through Integrated Nutrient Management Practices

Avinash Kumar Rai — 2026-07-13

Integrated nutrient management, which combines organic and inorganic nutrient sources, is an important strategy for improving soil fertility and nutrient utilisation in sustainable agriculture. Effective nutrient management is particularly important for optimising wheat growth and yield. This study investigated the effects of farmyard manure (FYM), NPK consortia, and nano-urea, in combination with different proportions of the recommended dose of fertiliser (RDF), on wheat growth, yield, and nitrogen-use efficiency. The field experiment was conducted at KVK, Ghazipur, using a randomised block design with three replications. Nine treatments comprising different combinations of RDF, FYM, NPK consortia, and nano-urea were evaluated. Plant height, tiller density, grain and straw yields, and agronomic use efficiency (AUE) were measured at critical growth stages or at harvest. Data were analysed using analysis of variance, and treatment means were compared using the critical difference at the 5% probability level. Nutrient management significantly affected plant height, and T4 (100% RDF + FYM) produced the greatest height at all stages, reaching 87.8 cm at harvest. T4 also recorded the highest tiller density at 60 DAS (106.8 m⁻¹ row length) and harvest (69.8 m⁻¹ row length), grain yield (6.20 t/ha), straw yield (7.60 t/ha), and AUE (17.5 kg grain/kg N). T6 produced the second-highest grain yield (5.72 t/ha), while T7 outperformed T2. Overall, combining 100% RDF with FYM improved wheat growth, yield, and nitrogen-use efficiency.