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ThesisItem Open Access Absorption and translocation of 32P by root (wilt) affected coconut palms(College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Beena, S George; KAU; Moossa, P PAn investigation entitled “Absorption and translocation of 32P by root (wilt) affected coconut palms” was conducted in the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara. Two separate experiments were conducted in farmers’ fields at Mannarkkad, Chittur, Chavakkad, Kayamkulam and RARS, Pattambi. Three types of palms namely healthy, apparently healthy and diseased palms were identified from three soil types of Kerala (laterite, sandy and black cotton soil), where root (wilt) disease was prevalent. Four morphologically uniform palms of same age were selected from each group of palms and soil samples were collected from two depths; 0-20 cm and 20-40 cm from the basin. Index leaf samples (14th leaf) were also collected from the experimental palms. Soil samples were characterized for different physico-chemical properties and plant samples for N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, Cl and Na. Absorption and translocation of nutrients in coconut palm were studied using radioactive phosphorus in laterite soil. Before 32P application, in order to make homogeneous soil conditions, soil and plant samples were analysed and soil test based fertilizer combinations including organic manures and micronutrients were applied. Three months after fertilizer application, soil and plant samples were again collected and analysed. Three different methods (cotton pad technique, root feeding and soil injection) were employed for 32P application. The index leaf samples were collected at 24 hours, 15 and 30 days after application and radioassayed. The result of basic characterisation of soil showed that all the physico-chemical properties varied significantly among different soil types. Laterite soil recorded the highest value for available P, K, Fe, Mn, Cu and B. High values of EC, Cl, Na and AEC were obtained for sandy soil. Black cotton soil registered the highest values for pH, organic carbon, Ca, Mg, S, Zn and CEC. Among soils under different palms within same soil type, there was significant variation in the content of Mg, B, Zn and Cu. Among different palms K accumulated more in the foliage of diseased palms, while the concentrations of N, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu and B were more in the foliage of healthy palms, indicating nutritional imbalance in the root (wilt) affected palms. Before application of fertilizer in laterite soil, the contents of nutrients were not homogeneous among soils under different palms. After fertilizer application, the soil became more or less similar with respect to the nutrient content. The contents of N, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu were significantly more in the foliage of healthy palms and K was more in the foliage of diseased palms before fertilization. Even after application of fertilizer same trend was observed. Though there was a slight increase in nutrient status of diseased palms after fertilizer application, the rate of increase was comparatively less with respect to healthy palms. This showed that integrated nutrient management targeting soil application cannot fully manage the root (wilt) disease. In absorption and translocation studies using 32P, it was observed that the absorption of radioactive phosphorus was more for healthy palms compared to diseased palms, after 24 hours, 15 days and 30 days of application. For healthy palms, the count rate was more for root feeding method, while in diseased palms highest count rate was obtained by using cotton pad technique. The count rate in the foliage after 15 days was more when compared to 24 hours after application and it tended to decrease 30 days after application. Nutrient imbalance was one of the major problems noticed in root (wilt) affected palms, so it should be corrected first by proper method of application. Among the different methods tested, cotton pad technique can be a promising technique of delivery of nutrient into root wilt affected palms especially for micro nutrients, which needs less quantity compared to major nutrients.ThesisItem Open Access Abundance and distribution of the nonconventional deep-sea finfish resources off the south-west coast of India (lat.7-10N)(Department of Fishery Biology, College of Fisheries, Panangad, 2005) Sajeevan, M K; KAU; Rajasekharan Nair, JMost of the conventional fishery resources of the continental shelves of the Indian EEZ are either optimally exploited or over exploited. Exploitation of the unexploited nonconventional finfishes will be a solution to meet the growing demand for fish in the country. The present study based on the exploratory fishing data of M.F.V. Matsya Varshini during the period of February 2004 to April 2005 indicates the presence of nonconventional finfish resources along the deeper waters (100-500 m) off the south west coast of India (70-100N lat.). 97 species belonging to 16 orders, 51 families, and 78 genera recorded during the study points to the rich diversity of nonconventional finfishes in the study area. Nonconventional finfishes formed 72% of the trawl catches obtained during the period under study. Distribution pattern and abundance of the nine species/species-groups are presented and discussed. Area-wise 70-80N lat. (200-500 m depth zone) has been found to be more productive and the abundance has shown a decreasing trend towards the northern latitudes. Results of the study confirm that bathymetric difference is the key factor for the distribution and abundance of deep-sea finfishes. Depth wise, the 200-300 m zone has been found to be more productive with a relative abundance of 1829.7 kg.h-1 of deep-sea finfishes. Trichiurus auriga with a relative abundance of 146.78 kg.h-1 dominated among finfishes, followed by Psenopsis cyanea with an average relative abundance of 144.38 kg.h-1. Existence of seasonal variation and difference of habits of the nonconventional finfishes have been observed during the study. Results of the length frequency studies carried out for seven important nonconventional finfish species are discussed. A standing stock of 98442.17 tonnes estimated for the nonconventional finfishes from the study area makes them a potential resource for commercial exploitation. Biomasses of the 9 species/species-groups of nonconventional finfishes estimated separately are also presented. Need of an organized survey of nonconventional deep sea finfishes covering the entire Indian EEZ by using different types of gears has been highlighted.ThesisItem Open Access Academy of climate change education and research on water resources in the command area of a river diversion scheme(Academy of Climate Change Education and Research, Vellanikkara, 2017) Abhijith, V; KAU; Mary Regina, FClimate change is the major cause that affects water availability mainly due to variability in rainfall and temperature. The rising population and increasing food demands are imposing a further pressure on available water resources. Hence the efficient management of available water resource is of great concern. Irrigation is the largest sector that accounts for water use. In this situation a study was conducted in the command area of Left Bank Canal of Chalakudy River Diversion Scheme to assess the impact of climate variability on the water availability for the cropping systems and domestic demand during the irrigation period from December to May. The variability and trend in the rainfall was studied for the basin for a period from 1987 to 2016 and it is seen that the annual rainfall shows a declining trend. An investigation was done for finding out the cropping pattern of the canal commands. The crop water demand worked out using CROPWAT was used to estimate irrigation water demand. The domestic water demand calculated for the basin along with the irrigation water requirement constituted the net water demand. The total weekly water requirement was computed for all the branch canals for the irrigation period. The groundwater level analysis was done for wells along branch canals. Water recharge was observed in almost all the observation wells during supply periods. But no recharge was observed in wells in tail reaches during certain supply periods due to insufficient supply of water to tail ends. The weekly water supply for the branch canals were compared with the water demand. Most branches show a water deficit while a few exhibits water excess. Water deficit was observed mostly in longer and farther branches. The existing supply system was noted to be inefficient and works without considering proper branch wise water demand. The discharge from the main shutter was also obtained and was found to be almost about five times of the demand. Seepage losses, illegal withdrawal of canal water, and improper management are observed to be the reasons behind the insufficient water supply. Proper management of canals and supply based on demand has to be followed for efficient water management. A computer based model was developed for the calculation of weekly water demand based on crop and weather data. A comparison of supply with the demand can also be done in the model which indicates the efficiency of supply system on a weekly basis. Proper planning can be done for efficient water management through the canal system, under the given conditions using the model.ThesisItem Open Access Acceptability and nutritional evaluation of hyacinth bean genotypes (Lablab purpureaus (L.) Sweet)(Department of Home Science, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2002) Vanisree Kathi; KAU; Usha, VHyacinth bean [Dolichos lablab purpureus CL.) Sweet] in India represents a wide range of variability especially the legumes and it is a major source of protein in the dietary in southern India. Systematic study on the nutritive value and acceptability of the hyacinth bean genotypes has not been evaluated in our state. Hence the present study on the nutritional evaluation and acceptability of hyacinth bean genotypes was taken to identify genotypes with high nutritional qualities and suitability as a vegetable in order to achieve a major break through in the genetic improvement of lablab. The pods at vegetable maturity were analyzed for moisture, fibre, protein, starch, vitamin C, ~-carotene, iron, calcium, potassium and phosphorus. Nutritionally the genotype DL-48 had the maximum score. The nutrient content of the pods varied significantly among the different genotypes selected for the study. In the acceptability study different characters like colour, doneness, texture, flavour and taste were evaluated. The genotype DL-50 and DL-40 got the highest rank for acceptability. Yield wise DL-40 ranked first. The varietal improvement of DL-40 with the objective of improving it's nutritional qualities should be given emphasis in the genetic improvement of lablab with respect to nutritional and organoleptic qualities as well as the yield.ThesisItem Open Access Access to institutional credit-an economic analysis of tenant farming in east Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh(Department of Agricultural Economics, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2012) Haritha, Chitturi; KAU; Satheesh Babu, KThe formal financial system plays an important role in financing the needs of the agricultural sector in India. In order to facilitate timely and adequate credit flow to agriculture, the sector has been targeted as a part of the priority sector for the lending programmes in 1969 with an emphasis on ‘social banking’. Domestic commercial banks have been directed to allocate 18 per cent of net bank credit to agriculture and allied activities. The directed credit programme has clearly resulted in a significant increase in the amount of credit allocated to agriculture over the years. According to the Reserve Bank of India, an amount of Rs.4,76,550 crores was pumped into the agricultural sector as institutional credit as on 31-03-2012 against a target of Rs.4,75,550. However, the increased amount of agricultural credit and its outreach over the years are accompanied by several qualitative issues like timeliness, adequacy, cost and access. Inclusive financing, ie., the delivery of financial services at affordable costs to sections of disadvantaged and low income segments of the society on par with access to any public good needs more scrutiny as banks look into the total quantity of credit disbursed in a financial year only. The growing spectra of financial exclusion in agriculture, providing livelihood to more than two third of our population, particularly of small and marginal holders, and tenant farmers merit more attention in this context. The inability to offer collaterals stands between them and the institutions despite many state initiatives. The present study entitled “Access to institutional credit: An economic analysis of tenant farming in East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh” was carried against this background with the specific objective of investigating the operational problems faced by both the tenants and bankers in credit delivery, and to suggest policy fine tuning to overcome the bottlenecks. According to the Andhra Pradesh (Andhra area) tenancy act, 1956, tenancy is permitted in the state, but it is regulated. Informal tenancy system was very prevalent in the district of East Godavari and it covered nearly 50 to 60 per cent of the cultivated area. The total operating expenses on rabi paddy was found to be higher (Rs.49510/ha) on leased land as compared to the owned land (Rs. 40926/ha). This difference was accounted due to higher level of input use on leased land, besides the cost incurred towards paying rent (Rs. 7776/ha) to the land owner. Also, the scale of finance (Rs. 41990/ha) was found to be inadequate in meeting the working expenses of a tenant farmer, while it was sufficient in case of owner cultivated lands. Even though the gross income realized from the leased land was higher than that of owned land, the gross margin of the tenant cultivator was found to be relatively low. This was due to the additional costs incurred by the tenant farmer towards the land rent. The subsidies provided by the Government could not be availed in full by the tenant cultivators. Hence, the tenant farmers usually borrowed farm inputs from the input dealers and village traders who exploited them by charging high prices for the inputs advanced. Due to their indebtedness towards the moneylenders and village traders, the farmers resorted to distress sales at low prices at the village market itself. The Government interventions in marketing of the produce were found to be inefficient. Non availability of institutional credit and the high interest rate charged by the money lenders were the two major constraints experienced by the tenant farmers. The moneylenders exploited the tenant farmers by charging usurious rates of interest which varied from 24 per cent to 32 per cent. The scheme of financing tenant farmers through Joint Liability Groups (JLGs), introduced by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) was not successfully implemented in the study area. The logit regression analysis illustrated that the scheme of LEC introduced by the Andhra Pradesh Loan and Allied Benefits Eligibility Card (for permissive cultivation) Act was successful in providing formal credit to the tenant farmers. The possession of Loan Eligibility Card by the tenant farmers was found to be the most significant determinant in accessing credit from institutional sources. These cards enabled the tenant cultivators to access credit from public financial institutions and to claim input subsidy, crop insurance and compensation for damages to crop. Co-operatives were the agencies to implement the LEC scheme in a better way and advanced credit to the tenant farmers without any demand of collateral security due to more government support and political will. The other formal institutions like commercial banks and Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) were reluctant to implement the scheme due to the complicated documentation procedures involved in credit delivery to tenant farmers. Based on the findings of the study, policy measures like government intervention to strengthen the marketing system, credit linked marketing facilities, fixing realistic scale of finance with due considerations for the fair rent component, group initiatives in production and marketing, the universalisation of loan eligibility card, and simplification of bank procedures are being suggested.ThesisItem Open Access Accomplishing food security through community based initiatives in Thrissur:A participatory analysis(College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2010) Mridula, N; KAU; Jiju P, AlexFood security has become a matter of serious concern the world over. Recently in Kerala there is an increased emphasis on community-based organizations (CBO) as a means of increasing agricultural production and thereby food security. The study intended to appraise the nature and relative role of CBOs involved in ensuring food security, explore the extent of awareness of various stakeholders in agricultural development process and factors contributing to it, identify gaps in food grain production in a selected Grama Panchayat and assess possible interventions to ensure food security through community based initiatives. Observations on the basic details of CBOs included the details of members, year of start, production and market details, subsidiary enterprises, marketing of products, relation with local bodies, skills and aspirations of CBO members and difficulties encountered. The different constraints faced by the extension agents in implementing food security programmes were also noted. The awareness level of stakeholders on the different dimensions of food security concerns of the community was assessed. Farmers were found to have better awareness on production and nutrition dimension; CBO members had better awareness on the distribution and socio economic dimensions as well as food security as a whole. The extension agents had the least awareness on all the four dimensions. . Positive correlation between farmer’s awareness on food security and age was found and negative correlation was found between their awareness and sex. Negative correlation between age, farming experience and income of extension agents and awareness was observed. Significant, positive correlation between CBO member’s awareness and their age was noted. Positive correlation between awareness and their farm size and negative correlation between awareness and education were also observed . It was also found that negative correlation existed between awareness and farm size of the people’s representatives. A methodology for quick assessment of food requirement of a locality was developed through participatory method in Kuzhikany North watershed of Kodakara Panchayath. A synthesis of wealth ranking and survey and recall method was employed. The daily requirement of food grain, vegetables, pulses and tubers for individuals of each class was found out through memory recall method. This tool can be used in any place for rapid estimation of food requirement. The requirement and production of different food items in the above panchayath was found out and considerable difference was noted. The major policy implications of the findings of the study include reorientation of agricultural development planning on the basis of location specific food requirement, intensification of household production of vegetables and tubers, formulation of exclusive programmes for food security, standardizing the procedure for leasing out land in a participatory mode, and mediating the process of leasing out private paddy lands for food production. LSGIs should facilitate gender sensitive farm mechanization for CBOs to operate effectively in food security programmes and organise focused and customized programmes for building awareness on food security for all the stake holders.ThesisItem Open Access Accumulation of heavy metals in typic sulfaquents of Kuttanad ecosystm(Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry,College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Aneesa, Beegum M M; KAU; Beena, V IAn investigation entitled “Accumulation of heavy metals in Typic Sulfaquents of Kuttanad ecosystem” was conducted in the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural University during 2014-2016. Sample collection was done from six acid sulphate soil series of Kuttanad viz., Ambalapuzha, Kallara, Thakazhi, Purakkad, Thottapally and Thuravur series. Twenty soil, sediment and water samples were collected from each series. Dominant aquatic macrophytes were also collected from each series. Mainly three mangrove species (Avicennia officinalis, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza and Rhizophora mucronata) were present in the area, and were collected for analysis. Soil and sediment samples were characterized for texture, pH, EC, organic carbon, macronutrients, micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu) and heavy metals (Pb, Cr, Hg and Al). Water samples were analysed for its irrigation quality parameters such as colour, temperature, turbidity, suspended solids, pH, EC, biological oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD). Also the plant and water samples were analysed for its macronutrients, micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu) and heavy metals (Pb, Cr, Hg and Al). Based on the analytical data, maps were prepared by using specialized software ArcGIS ArcMap version 10 of ESRI. The soil samples from acid sulphate soil series of Kuttanad were extremely acidic whereas the sediment and water samples were slightly acidic. Highest EC values were recorded for soil, sediment and water samples collected from Purakkad series. Significantly higher OC and available N content were observed in soil and sediment samples collected from Kallara series, while the water samples taken from this series showed high ammoniacal N content. The available P content was low in all the series. Soil and sediment samples collected from Thuravur series exhibited highest content of N, P, K, Ca and Mg. In all the series, Cd and Hg were found to be below detectable levels in soil, sediment and water samples. The heavy metal accumulation was more in sediments when compared to soil and water. Toxicity of Fe and Al was recorded in soil and sediment samples of all series. Concentration of Zn and Mn was high in all soil samples of acid sulphate soil series. Even though accumulation of Pb and Cr were reported in soil and sediment samples, their availability were more in sediment samples than in soil samples. Soil pH and OC had significant influence on availability of heavy metals in soil and sediments. Concentration of Fe, Al and Cr in water samples were above the maximum permissible limit (MPL) as suggested by WHO, hence they are not suitable for drinking water purpose. The concentration of Pb was below maximum permissible limit in water samples of all series except Purakkad and Thottapally series. According to FAO, for irrigation water quality, all heavy metals were within the MPL in the water samples collected from study area and were safe for irrigation. Along with Cd and Hg, Zn and Cu were also below detectable levels in all water samples. The heavy metal content in Eichhornia crassipes were in the order of Fe >Mn > Al> Zn> Cr> Cu >Pb. Among the dominant macrophytes, Eichhornia crassipes accumulated high content of Pb. Hence it can be effectively used as a phytoremediator. Salvinia molesta contained high amount of heavy metals, especially Cr and Al. The content of Cd and Hg were below detectable level in all weed species. The content of Zn, Cd and Hg were found to be below detectable levels in all the three mangrove species. But these contained high concentration of Fe, Pb, Cr and Al in roots, while Cu and Mn were accumulated in aerial parts such as shoot and leaves. Hence the three mangrove species viz., Avicennia officinalis, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza and Rhizophora mucronata restricted the mobility of heavy metals to aerial parts but showed greater mobility of essential elements like Cu and Mn. Since they are having extensive root system, they can stabilise heavy metals within the roots. These plants can be effectively used for phytoremediation, especially for phytostabilisation of metals in mangrove ecosystem.ThesisItem Restricted Acidity amelioration and nutrient management practices for mitigating yield constraints of rice in Vaikom Kari(Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2017) Devi, V S; KAU; Kumari Swadija, OAn investigation entitled “Acidity amelioration and nutrient management practices for mitigating yield constraints of rice in Vaikom Kari” was carried out as two field experiments in Vaikom Kari soils of Kuttanad during the period from 2014 to 2017 to standardize acidity amelioration and nutrient management practices for rice to overcome yield constraints in Vaikom Kari and to work out the economics of cultivation. Experiment I entitled “Evaluation of acidity amelioration practices for rice in Vaikom Kari” was conducted in farmer’s field in Kallara panchayat in Kottayam district during November 2014 to March 2015. The experiment was laid out in RBD with seven treatments in three replications with rice var. Uma. The treatments included lime, dolomite and rice husk ash (RHA) applied as two splits- as basal + 30 DAS or as basal + one week before third dose of fertilizer application and a control without ameliorants. Lime, dolomite or RHA, irrespective of time of application, could produce taller plants with higher LAI and tiller number at maximum tillering (MT), panicle initiation (PI) and harvest stages. The same treatments recorded higher number of panicles m-2 and 1000 grain weight and lower sterility percentage. Lime, dolomite or RHA as basal + 30 DAS produced significantly higher grain yield over control. Grain yield was significantly and positively correlated with LAI at MT and PI stages and panicle number m-2. Higher straw yield was obtained with lime or dolomite as basal + 30 DAS and RHA treatments. Application of lime, dolomite or RHA as basal + 30 DAS resulted in higher dry matter production at harvest. Soil ameliorants improved the uptake of macronutrients and micronutrients. Uptake of N and K were significantly higher for lime, dolomite or RHA applied as basal + 30 DAS while dolomite as basal + 30 DAS recorded the highest P uptake. The highest uptake of Ca was found with lime as basal + 30 DAS and that of Mg and S with dolomite as basal + 30 DAS. The highest uptake of Mn and Zn were observed with lime as basal + 30 DAS, Cu with RHA as basal + 30 DAS and that of B with lime, dolomite or RHA applied as basal + 30 DAS. The control treatment and RHA applied as basal + one week before PI registered lower Na uptake and both RHA treatments registered higher Al uptake. There was significant and positive correlation of grain yield with uptake of nutrients except Fe, Zn and Al. Lime and dolomite treatments were more effective in reducing soil acidity and improving dehydrogenase activity and nutrient availability in the soil. The ameliorated plots showed higher organic carbon status compared to control. Lime as basal + one week before PI and dolomite treatments recorded higher soil available N at seedling stage and at tillering and PI stages, any treatment except control could register higher available N in the soil. Any liming material applied as basal + 30 DAS improved soil available P status. No significant effect of treatments on available K was observed. Lime or dolomite treatments resulted in higher availability of Ca while dolomite treatments registered higher availability of Mg in the soil. At all stages except harvest, the control plots recorded significantly higher status of available S and Fe and lower status of Mn in the soil. Significant and positive correlation of pH with available Ca and negative correlation with available Fe was observed at all stages of crop growth. Soil available Cu status was the highest with control at PI stage and with dolomite at harvest stage. Dolomite treatments recorded higher available B in the soil. The highest Na content in the soil was registered by dolomite treatments at seedling stage and by control at tillering stage. There was an increase in the availability of Na at all stages of experimentation but the content was below the critical level of toxicity. Soil exchangeable Al status was significantly higher in the control. Lime, dolomite or RHA applied as basal + 30 DAS gave higher net income and BCR while the control recorded the lowest net income and BCR. Experiment II entitled “Standardization of nutrient management practices for rice in Vaikom Kari” was conducted during August to December 2015 and 2016 in farmers` fields in Thalayazham panchayat in Kottayam district. The experiment was laid out in RBD with 16 treatments (formulated based on the results of the Experiment I) in three replications with rice var. Uma. The treatments were dolomite, lime + MgSO4 or RHA + MgSO4 along with 100% POP alone or with 100% POP + foliar spray of 13:0:45 (1%) or borax (0.5%) or 13:0:45 + borax at PI stage. Lime + MgSO4 + 75% POP + 13:0:45 + borax as well as lime without MgSO4 + 100% POP combined with 13:0:45 or borax or both were also included as treatments. The treatments involving dolomite and lime with or without MgSO4 produced taller plants, higher tiller number m-2 and higher LAI during both the years. Dolomite + POP + 13:0:45 produced the highest number of panicles m-2. Higher test weight and lower sterility percentage were observed with dolomite + POP + 13:0:45 and dolomite + POP + 13:0:45 + borax. Higher grain yield of 5.42 and 5.57 t ha-1 during 2015 and 2016 respectively were produced by dolomite + POP + 13:0:45 followed by dolomite + POP + 13:0:45 + borax and lime + MgSO4 POP + 13:0:45. Grain yield was significantly and positively correlated with LAI at MT and PI stages and with panicle number m-2. Pooled analysis also proved the significance of the above treatments in producing higher grain yield. Lower yields were produced by the treatments involving RHA and 75% POP during both the years and in the pooled data. In general, higher straw yields were noticed with the treatments involving dolomite or lime along with foliar spray of 13:0:45 or 13:0:45 + borax. Higher dry matter production was noticed with dolomite + POP along with 13:0:45 or borax during first year and with dolomite + POP or lime + MgSO4 + POP along with 13:0:45 or 13:0:45 + borax during second year. In general, higher uptake of macronutrients and micronutrients was observed with dolomite or lime + MgSO4 treatments along with 100% POP during both the years. Uptake of Na was the highest with RHA + MgSO4 + POP + 13:0:45 during first year and with dolomite treatments during second year. Higher Al uptake was observed with lime + POP + 13:0:45 with or without MgSO4. Significant and positive correlation of grain yield with uptake of P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Mn, Zn, Cu and B and negative correlation with Fe was observed during first year. During second year, the yield was significantly and positively correlated with uptake of nutrients except Na and Al. The treatments involving dolomite, lime with or without MgSO4 performed better in ameliorating soil acidity than RHA treatments during both the years. The treatments involving RHA showed higher EC values. All the treatments except those involving RHA helped in improving dehydrogenase enzyme activity in the soil during the cropping period. The initial soil organic carbon status was maintained during the cropping period due to nutrient management practices. Availability of N in the soil improved due to treatments involving dolomite + POP during seedling stage and due to those involving lime + POP without MgSO4 at other stages. The treatments involving dolomite + POP and lime + POP with or without MgSO4 recorded higher available P during all crop stages. In general, higher status of available K was registered by the treatments involving RHA or lime without MgSO4. All treatments involving lime or dolomite registered higher soil available Ca and those involving dolomite or lime + MgSO4 showed higher availability of Mg in the soil. In general, available S in the soil decreased from initial status during the cropping period. The treatments involving dolomite registered lower status of soil available Fe and higher status of available Mn and B. Higher status of available Zn was registered by the treatments involving dolomite or lime + MgSO4. The treatments involving dolomite, lime + MgSO4 or RHA + MgSO4 along with POP registered higher available Cu in the soil. Dolomite treatments recorded lower status of Na and exchangeable Al in the soil. Soil pH was significantly and positively correlated with available P and significantly and negatively correlated with available Fe and exchangeable Al in the soil. The economics of cultivation in terms of net income and BCR were the highest with dolomite + POP + 13:0:45 during both the years which was closely followed by dolomite + POP + 13:0:45 + borax. The treatments involving RHA and 75% POP registered lower net income and BCR. The results of the study revealed the superiority of dolomite for ameliorating soil acidity in Vaikom Kari soil compared to lime or rice husk ash. Split application of dolomite as basal dose and at 30 DAS proved more effective than application as basal dose and one week prior to fertilizer application at panicle initiation stage. Soil acidity amelioration with dolomite @ 500 kg ha-1 (300 kg as basal dose and 200 kg ha-1 at 30 DAS) and soil application of 90:45:45 kg NPK ha-1 (full P as basal and N and K in three equal splits at 20 DAS, 35 DAS and PI stage) along with foliar spray of 13:0:45 (1%) or combined spray of 13:0:45 (1%) and borax (0.5%) at panicle initiation stage resulted in higher productivity and profitability from rice cultivation in Vaikom Kari soil.ThesisItem Open Access Acrylic external skeletal fixator for the treatment of long bone fracture in dogs(Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary and Animal Science,Mannuthy, 2005) Julie, B; KAU; Syam Venugopal, KThe efficacy of replacing stainless steel connecting bar in external skeletal fixator (ESF) with acrylic connecting bar was evaluated by using acrylic connecting bar in twelve clinical cases of complete fracture of long bones in dogs presented to the Surgery Units of Veterinary Hospitals of Mannuthy and Kokkalai, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, during the period of December 2003 to May 2005. All the animals were subjected to detailed clinical, radiological, haematological and serum biochemical evaluations before application of acrylic fixator and also postoperatively at two weeks interval upto sixth week or until the removal of the implant. Type IA or type II acrylic fixators were applied by closed or open approach under general anaesthesia depending on the type of fracture. Transfixation pins were drilled and the acrylic connecting bar was connected directly or following the application of a temporary stainless steel connecting bar, which was removed later. Fixator with acrylic connecting bar on one side and stainless steel connecting bar on the other side was used in three animals. Acrylic external fixator proved to be an economical, technically feasible, clinically successful and reliable alternative for stainless steel external fixators for the immobilization of fractures of radius and ulna and tibia and fibula in animals of less than 15 kg body weight. In heavier animals, usage of acrylic bar on one side of the type II fixator gave adequate stability in case of radial fractures but not for tibial fractures. Early return of sound functional limb usage following fixation with acrylic ESF was remarkable. All the animals, except three, could make slight ground contact with the fractured leg by the third post operative day and had apparently normal gait by the fourth week of observation with full weight bearing on the limb. Loosening of the proximal most pin occurred in Case Nos. 2, 3 and 4, by fourth week of observation, where type I acrylic fixator was used, but none of them affected the fracture healing significantly. Breakage of acrylic bar occurred in Case Nos. 7 and 9. In Case No. 7, the acrylic bar failed to tolerate the strong muscle pull on the fractured femoral fragments and in Case No. 9 severe mutilation by the animal resulted in breakage of the bar. Four animals exhibited mutilation on the implant, but only one on them showed severe mutilation. Mild pin tract drainage occurred in four animals and pin tract sepsis resulted in one animal. The heat generated during exothermic phase of acrylic hardening produced no apparent thermal necrosis of bone or soft tissue. Mild to moderate degrees of malalignment occurred following application of acrylic fixator in Case Nos. 3, 5, 6 and 11, which got nullified with progressive callus formation and resulted in restoration of normal straight line alignment of the bone. Marked angulation of the bone fragments occurred in Case Nos. 2 and 9. The fracture gap in all the cases was found to be progressively getting filled up with callus. Rate of callus formation varied with age of the animal, type of fracture and stability of the apparatus. In 50% of the cases, the fracture healed with endosteal callus only, while it healed with endosteal and periosteal callus in rest of the animals. Periosteal reaction of varying degree occurred in most of the cases but did not affect fracture healing or functional limb usage. Osteolysis was noticed around proximal pin tract in four animals, which could be due to loosening of pins. However, no significant alteration in fracture healing was produced. Acrylic column of one centimetre diameter was found sufficient for use as connecting bar of ESF for immobilization of fractures of radius and ulna and tibia and fibula in animals of less than 15 kg body weight.ThesisItem Open Access Adaptability of crossbred pigs under different housing and feeding systems(Department of Livestock Production and Management, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2005) Anton Roseline, J; KAU; Joseph MathewA study was conducted to find out the adaptability of two crossbred pigs, viz., CB1 (Duroc 50% and Large White Yorkshire 50 %) and CB2 (Desi 50% and Large White Yorkshire 50%) under different housing and feeding systems. Twenty-four weaned piglets from each genetic group were randomly divided into four groups of six animals each and were subjected to four treatments, i.e., group housing with wallowing facility, fed with conventional feed (T1), group housing with wallowing facility, fed with unconventional feed (T2), individual housing without wallowing facility, fed with conventional feed (T3) and individual housing without wallowing facility, fed with unconventional feed (T4). The climatological data, rectal temperature, pulse and respiratory rate at weekly intervals, daily feed intake, fortnightly body weight and behavioural scores of the animals were recorded. The average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), total cost of production per kg of live body weight, proximate principles of the feeds and faecal cortisol level were estimated. On attaining the slaughter weight two animals from each group were slaughtered for studying the carcass characteristics. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in microclimatic variables, viz., maximum and minimum temperature and relative humidity between the treatments. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in rectal temperature between the treatments but the pulse and respiratory rates were significantly higher (P<0.05) in group housed pigs than the individually housed pigs in both the genetic groups. Significantly higher (P<0.05) growth rate in T3 and T4 groups (individually housed) of CB1 and a trend for higher growth rate in T3 and T4 groups (individually housed) of CB2 were observed. The ADG was highest in T4 followed by T3, T2 and T1 and the FCR on dry matter basis was highest in T2 followed by T4, T1 and T3 in both the genetic groups. Though there were no significant differences (P>0.05) in the behavioural scores, the feeding behavioural score was better was higher in pigs fed with unconventional feed. The quantity of dung voided was highest in pigs fed with conventional feed. The slaughter weight and hot carcass weight (kg) were significantly higher (P<0.05) in the T3 and T4 of CB1 pigs but these traits were numerically higher in T4 followed by T3, T2 and T1 of CB2 pigs. Back fat thickness (mm) was lesser in CB1 than CB2. Individually housed pigs had relatively higher back fat thickness in both the breeds. The loin eye area (cm2) was numerically higher in CB1 than CB2 pigs. The dressing percentage was lower in groups fed with unconventional feed (T2 and T4) and meat yield (percentage) was higher in T3 and T4 in both the breeds. The meat bone ratio was numerically higher in CB2 when compared to CB1 pigs. The moisture level was more in swill (72.03%) followed by chicken waste (71.88%) and infertile egg (59.87)%. The crude protein and ether extract were highest in chicken waste followed in infertile egg and swill. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in the faecal cortisol level between the treatments of both the breeds. From this study it is concluded that both genetic combination had better performance when they were maintained on unconventional feed irrespective of their housing and feeding systems. Among these two breeds Desi 50% and Large White Yorkshire 50%(CB2) seemed to be economical under unconventional feeding in both the housing systems, considering the cost of production per kg live body weight.ThesisItem Open Access Adaptation behaviour of vegetable growers in crisis situations(Department of Agricultural Extension, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2002) Boban Paul; KAU; Jose JosephKerala, the green stretch, in the south west cost of India, is delineated from other states by Western Ghats stretching around six hundred kilometers of its Eastern boundary. These hill ranges creates an exclusive climatic conditions in this land. The soil and whether factors have lead to diversity of plant population and also the crops cultivated here. Like other states of India, the crop loss and consequent economic crises occur in Kerala farming also. However the root causes of the crises are different here compared to other states. There it happens as a results of flood, droughts and storms where in Kerala the economic loss results mainly from pest and disease incidence, land slides etc. Kerala is well known for the production of spices and plantation crops. In last two or three decades the commercial cultivation of vegetables also was started in the state. Still a major portion of state's requirement of vegetables are met by products from neighbouring states. The government through its Department of Agriculture and the Vegetable and Fruits Promotion Council of Kerala are trying to increase vegetable production in the state. It was in this context, the present study was undertaken with the objectives such as identifying the different crisis situations encountered by commercial vegetable growers, identifying the methods of adaptation in these crisis situations, rationality behind those methods of adaptation and finally the perception of commercial vegetable growers about the external intervention of developmental agencies in crisis situation. The study was conducted in Ernakulam district which was a traditional vegetable growing area. More over the activities of Department of Agriculture and vegetable and fruits promotion council of Kerala was in progress for the promotion of vegetable production. A two stage sampling technique was used to select three panchayats for the selection of respondents. From the selected panchayat fifty vegetable growers each were randomly identified and they formed the respondents. Data were collected with the help of a pretested and well structured interview schedule. The crops selected were Bitter gourd (Momordica), Snake gourd (Trichosanthus anguina), Oriental pickling melon (Cucumis melo), Ash gourd (Benincasa hespida), Cowpea (Vigna anguiculata var. sesquipedalis). Data was collected classifying crop wise and season wise. The data regarding methods of adaptation were delineated as anticipatory measures, measures for mitigation and contingent measures. The rationality of the methods of adaptation was studied by the rating from three groups of respondents which included scientist, extension personnel and progressive farmers. An index was developed for measuring the level of adaptation. The salient findings are as follows: The commonly adopted anticipatory measures by farmers to insulate themselves from the impact of a possible economic loss were mixed cropping in vegetables, crop diversification with perennial crops, crop rotation with seasonal crops, crop diversification in annual crops, vocational diversification by other enterprises, vocational diversification by other jobs, adjusting planting time to get yield during high demand season and minimising hired labour by employing maximum family labour. The measures taken by the majority of farmers for mitigating the impact of an already occurred economic loss in a crisis were compensating for the loss with the profit from other crops, loan renewal, obtaining new loans on land and gold mortgage and government subsidies. The unexpected price fall was tackled by the contingent measure of pooling the produce from neighbouring farmers and transporting to distant markets. Majority of the respondents reported that VFPCK was intervening in the crisis situations. Only a minor section of respondents reported that Department of agriculture was making interventions. With regard to effectiveness of interventions majority were of the opinion that both the agencies mentioned above were effective in making interventions. With regard to the level of adaptation, majority of the respondent belonged to the category of medium level of adaptation.ThesisItem Open Access Adequacy of procurement price for paddy farmers in Kerala(College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2015) Sukanya, S Dharan; KAU; Santha, A MThe study entitled “Adequacy of procurement price for paddy farmers in Kerala” was conducted at Alappuzha and Palakkad districts. The objectives of the study were to analyze the adequacy of procurement price of paddy in relation to its cost of production, to compare the procurement price of paddy with its farm harvest price and to study the scale of procurement of paddy in Kerala and constraints experienced by the stakeholders in the procurement. The study was based on both secondary and primary data. Secondary data on cost of production, farm harvest price, procurement price and quantity of paddy procured for the period of ten years from 2003-04 to 2013-14 were collected from Department of Economics and Statistics and Food and Civil Supplies Department, Kerala. Primary data on cost of production of paddy was collected from 30 farmers selected from both the districts using a structured interview schedule. Trend analysis on area, production and productivity was done to have an understanding of rice scenario of Kerala. Even though area and production showed a significant negative growth rate of 4.27 and 1.88 per cent per annum respectively, the productivity showed a positive significant growth rate of 2.38 per cent per annum. Comparing the trend analysis of farm harvest and procurement price of paddy, there was more significant growth rate for procurement price (10.94 per cent) than farm harvest price at the rate of 7.25 per cent per annum. The study also revealed that there was a sharp increase in the growth rate of scale of procurement of paddy at the rate of 20.03 per cent annum with increase in its procurement price. Season wise analysis was done to find the adequacy of procurement price in relation to its cost of production. Analysis on adequacy of procurement price in relation to cost of production for the period of 2004-05 to 2013-14 in autumn season revealed that at cost A procurement price of paddy was adequate in all the years except 2007-08. At cost B inadequacy was seen in all the years except 2006-07. The procurement price was also inadequate in all the years at cost C. The analysis on adequacy in winter season and summer season revealed that at cost A, procurement price was found adequate in all the years in the study period. At cost B and cost C the ratio was inadequate in all the years. Similarly the measurement of adequacy using primary data revealed that the procurement price of paddy was inadequate at cost B2, cost C2 and Cost C3 on estimating the cost of production of paddy. Cost of cultivation and cost of production were found higher in Palakkad district with B-C ratio of 1.47 than Alappuzha district with a B-C ratio of 1.60. Hired labour contributed more to cost A followed by machine labour in both the districts. Cobb- Douglas production function was used to study resource use efficiency. By calculating resource use efficiency, machine labour cost, seed cost and plant protection chemicals cost are found under utilized in Alappuzha and only fertilizer was found under utilized in Palakkad. The major constraints faced by the paddy farmers selling paddy to procurement agency was the amount for procurement available only in installments and difficulty as amount is not available in time. Rice being the staple food of Kerala, the decreasing trend in area and production is a matter of concern. It is appreciable that the cost of production is atleast at cost A is covered by procurement price. The state is having high competitiveness of crops and for people who depend on farming, the present procurement price is not adequate to sustain them. Moreover the receipts due to farmers on account of procurement should be made available without any delay. Assurance of a remunerative price regime is essential for sustained rice production for meeting the food security of the state.ThesisItem Open Access Adoption behaviour of sericulturists a multivariate analysis(Department of Agricultural Extension, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 1994) Susamma, P V; KAU; Geethakutty, P SA study was undertaken to estimate the knowledge level and extent of adoption of recommended practices in mulberry cultivation and silkworm rearing by the sericulturists. It also aimed to identify the factors which motivated them to start this new enterprise and their constraints in adoption as well as Reasons for non-adoption by prospective sericulturists. The study was conducted during 1993-94 among the sericulturists in Palakkad and Thrissur districts of Kerala. The respondents for the study included both sericulturists (n=120) and prospective sericulturists (n=60). The data were collected by interview method using a pre-tested structured interview schedule. It was found that majority (70%) of the respondents belonged to the medium adoption category. In the case of mulberry cultivation the adoption levels for FYM and fertilizer application and plant protection ware lows while in silkworm rearing, the practices like care at moulting, storage of leaf, temperature and relative humidity control. Sterilization of rearing rooms and appliances, bed disinfection and disease control were adopted only partially. Most of the farmers had only lesser rearing house and equipment facilities and reared lesser number of dfls. Majority of the respondents (56.67%) had knowledge gap above the average level. Leisure time availability, innovativeness, risk orientation, annual income and knowledge about recommended practices were the best set of variable for predicting the extent of adoption. Knowledge about recommended practices had the maximum direct effect on extent of adoption. Education level, innovativeness, risk orientation, extension linkage and attitude towards sericulture were the best set of variables for predicting the knowledge level of sericulturists. Extension linkage had the maximum direct on their knowledge level. Profitability of the enterprise was the most important motivating factor. Whereas a successful neighbouring sericulturist was the most important motivating agent. Low price of cocoon, high cost of fertilizers, unfavourable climatic conditions, high labour cost, lack of marketing facilities and heavy disease incidences were the important constraints. Most of the prospective sericulturists had not adopted sericulture due to the low price of cocoons which makes this enterprise non-profitable. Lack of adequate infrastructural and marketing facilities, lack of capital, lack of credit facility etc. were other important reasons for non-adoption.ThesisItem Open Access Adoption behaviour of tribal farmers towards improved agricultural practices(Department of Agricultural Extension, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 1985) Viju, A; KAU; Balakrishna Pillai, GThe research was conducted in. Nedumangad taluk of Trivandrum district to study the adoption behaviourof tribal farmers. The method of probability proportionate to sample size was followed for selecting 110 'Kanikkars'. Extent of knowledge about the improved agricultural practices attitude towards farming and extent of adoption of improved agricultural practices were measured. The data were collected by interviewing using the interview schedule developed. Croup discussions and participant observation were also made use of The study revealed the following Majority of the *Kanikkars' had a medium level of knowledge about improved agricultural practices, a medium level of attitude towards farming and a low level of adoption . Extent o f knowledge about improved agricultural practices had positive association with educational status, social participation , risk orientation, cosmopollteness and annual income. Fatalism had negative association with the extent of knowledge. Attitude of tribal farmers towards fanning had positive relation ship with educational status, social participation, risk orientation, economic motivation and annual income, whereas status of land tenancy was negatively correlated . Extent o f adoption of improved agricultural practices had positive association with educational status, economic motivation and annual income. Stop-wise regression analysis revealed that risk orientation , educational status# indebtedness, social participation and economic motivation contributed to 73 per cent o f the variation in the extent o f knowledge about improved agricultural practices. Risk orientation# educational status, indebtedness, social participation, economic motivation, annual income and status of land tenancy contributed to 69.3 per cent of the variation in the attitude towards farming. Risk orientation, economic motivation, indebtedness, annual income and educational status contributed to 62.8 percent of the variation in the extent of adoption of improved agricultural practices. Risk orientation emerged as the most Important variable in a ll the three regression analyses.ThesisItem Open Access Adoption of technology for cultivation of banana var. Nendran in Trichur district(Department of Agricultural Extension, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 1989) Anitha Vijayan; KAU; Ramachandran Nair, K PIt is commonly' observed that there is wide gap between the technology generated in Research Station and its actual use by the clientele. It is with this view in mind that the present study was undertaken to identify the gap in the adoption of technology in Banana Nendran cultivated in Trichur District. The relationship between personal, situational,psychological and i communication characteristics of Banana Nendran growers and their adoption was also studied. The constraints in the adoption process were also finally analysed. The study was conducted in Trichur District. The sample was 150 farmers selected randomly from the six wards of the two Panchayats selected for the study. Data was . collected using an interview schedule and suitable statistical techniques were employed in the analysis of the data. It was revealed from the study that the technological gapwith respect to 25.33 per cent of the respondents was low, 51.33 per cent of respondents was medium and 23.33 per cent of the respondents high. The study revealed that information source utilisation, innovation proneness and extension contact contribute significantly to the adoption of fertilizers in Banana var. Nendran. In the case of adoption of desuckering practice it was found that' information source utilisation, economic motivation and market orientation were significant in predicting the adoption of desuckering. Information source utilisation, extension contact, market orientation and farm size were found to contribute significantly to the adoption of mulching in Banana var. Nendran. It was revealed from the study that independent variables contributing significantly to the adoption of plant protection measures were information source utilisation, extension contact and market orientation. The important constraints perceived by the farmers were inadequacy of capital, high labour charge, low price for output, high prop cost, high cost of plant protection chemicals and fertlizers, inadequate market facilities, non-availability of equipment for plant protection, poor transport facilities, lack of knowledge about technology and uneconomic holding size. The results point out vivid ly to the prime need for strengthening the extension education efforts of the field functionaries to reduce the technological gap with respect to the cultivation of Banana Nendran variety in the District.ThesisItem Open Access Adoption of crop insurance schemes in Alathur, Palakkad district(College of Co-operation Banking and Management, Vellanikkara, 2018) Aswathy Rani, V; KAU; Sendil Kumar, RThesisItem Open Access Adoption of drought management practices by farmers: a critical analysis(Department of Agricultural Extension, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 1988) Abdul Aziz, E; KAU; Menon, A G GTo assess the awareness and adoption of the recommended drought management practices for rice and coconut, a study was undertaken in Palaghat district of Kerala State. The independent variables taken were age, education, size of holding, annual income, risk orientation, economic motivation, scientific orientation, knowledge about recommended drought management practices for coconut, awareness about the drought-proneness of crops, knowledge about parameters of drought and extent of adoption of recommended drought management practices for rice and coconut. The dependant variables were extent of adoption of recommended drought management practices for rice and coconut. Results revealed that majority of the farmers were going for the cultivation of short duration varieties in the case of rice and mulching in the case of coconut to tide over the drought situation. Majority of the farmers belonged to medium group in the case of knowledge about drought management practices for rice and coconut and adoption of drought managenent practices in rice and coconut cultivation. Majority of the farmers used seed at 100 kg/ha in the case of rice and mulching In the case of coconut. None of the farmers adopted application of 34 kg each of NPR/ha in the case of rice. Only 28 per cent adopted husk burial practice in their coconut gardens. Only very few respondents adopted drip irrigation practice. The results of the correlation analysis showed that size of holding, knowledge aibout recommended drought management practices for coconut and extent of adoption of recommended drought management practices for coconut were positively and significantly correlated with the extent of adoption of recommended drought management practices for rice, while size of holding, annual income, knowledge about recommended drought management practices for coconut and extent of adoption of recommended drought management practices for rice were positively and significantly correlated with extent of adoption of recommended drought management practices for coconut. Majority of the farmers belonged to medium group with respect to their awareness about the drought-proneness of crops and knowledge about parameters of drought. Results of path-analysis showed maximum positive direct effect was found contributed by 'size of holding' in the case of adoption of drought management practices for rice and' annual income' in the case of adoption of drought management practices for coconut. Lack of knowledge about technology, lack of finance and non-availability of inputs/equipment were considered as the major constraints in the adoption of drought management practices for rice and coconut.ThesisItem Open Access Adoption of drought management practices by rubber planters in Kunnathunadu taluk of Ernakulam district(Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 1994) Abdul Rahiman, A K; KAU; Nazeem, P ARubber is mainly grown as a rainfed crops and thus its productivity greatly depend on the climatic conditions and the nutrient status of the soil , prevailing in the area. Distinct rainy season and dry season are observed in all rubber growing tracts of India and hence drought management and water conservation practices are of great relevance for this crop. Various management practices are recommended for rubber to conserve the soil moisture and to effectively thrive over the drought conditions. Kunnathunadu Taluk of Ernakulam District is an area recently brought under rubber cultivation . The rubber growing tracts in this area include wide and varied terrain of land . The farmers in this area are not traditionally rubber growers. The study was made to evaluate the drought management practices adopted by the rubber farmers of kunnathunadu taluk . A survey was conducted , selecting 53 rubber holdings having a sizeable area between 0.5 to 0.5 ha and located all over the Taluk . The drought management and moisture conservation practices in the locality were assessed by studying the topography of land , the depth of soil level of water table and various engineering and vegetative methods adopted for the purpose. Only very little area (6%) in the surveyed locality had steep terrain where as the others were level or with gentle slope. The soil depth was found to be satisfactory having a depth of 1m or more in most of the cases (72%) . Rocky patches were observed in the sub soil in 23 percent of the surveyed units. Though the pitting was ideal, planting practices adopted by the farmers were found to be not in accordance with the terrain of land. Holdings having steep slope were found to adopt square system as against the recommended practice of contour planting. The farmers of kunnathunadu Taluk are to be made aware of the consequence of defective planting in sloppy areas. The engineering methods adopted for conserving the soil/soil moisture included terracing and pitting. Individual terraces ,contour terraces and continuous terraces were found formed in the locality , of which continuous terraces were more popular and were found practiced in 58 percent of the holdings. Though terracing was common the farmers were found not adhering to the scientific recommendations. It was interesting to note that 7 units with gentle terrain had practiced contour terracing while only 1/3 of the units with gentle terrain had practiced contour terracing while only 1/3 of the units having steep terrain had practiced the same. Defective terracing was observed in 20 percent of the holdings, the defects being more pronounced as inadequate width and slop besides lack of annual repair . However, it was observed that the defects were rather low in area having steep slope. The practice of providing silt pits so as to make the running water walk was very poor in the surveyed area. Silt pits were observed only in four percent of the holdings and that too with poor maintenance . Shallow depth, improper alignment , Lack of desilting were the defects observed in the locality. The vegetative methods adopted for drought management included establishment of legume cover and raising of intercrops. Cover crops were observed in 80 percent of the holdings at various stages of establishment . pueraria sp. Is the common cover observed in the locality . Intercrops were found established in 26 percent of the holdings with plantain being the main intercrop. Others included pineapple, ginger and sesamum. The other drought management practices included planting of polybagged plants , Whitewashing , mulching and providing firebelts. Planting of advanced planting material raised in polybags was done in 92 percent of the holdings . Whitewashing was found adopted in 87 percent of the holdings while mulching was practiced in 58 percent . Fire belts were found provided in 21 percent of the holdings and the practice adopted in these respects were quite scientific in the surveyed area. Based on the present study it can be concluded that the farmers are aware of the drought management/moisture conservation practices that are to be adopted in rubber. The farmers are more conscious about the fact at early periods of the growth, as evidenced from the details collected for mulching, whitewashing and cover cropping. The farmers are yet to be made more aware of the proper methods of terracing silt pits, stone wall ,etc. Poor adoption of these practices could be due to the high investment that it requires at initial stages and for its later maintenance. The Rubber Board has to seriously look in to this aspect and can take favourable steps like providing incentives or special subsidy schemes considering the terrain of land agroclimate prevailing in the locality