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Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa
In the imperial Gazetteer of India 1878, Pusa was recorded as a government estate of about 1350 acres in Darbhanba. It was acquired by East India Company for running a stud farm to supply better breed of horses mainly for the army. Frequent incidence of glanders disease (swelling of glands), mostly affecting the valuable imported bloodstock made the civil veterinary department to shift the entire stock out of Pusa. A British tobacco concern Beg Sutherland & co. got the estate on lease but it also left in 1897 abandoning the government estate of Pusa.
Lord Mayo, The Viceroy and Governor General, had been repeatedly trying to get through his proposal for setting up a directorate general of Agriculture that would take care of the soil and its productivity, formulate newer techniques of cultivation, improve the quality of seeds and livestock and also arrange for imparting agricultural education. The government of India had invited a British expert. Dr. J. A. Voelcker who had submitted as report on the development of Indian agriculture. As a follow-up action, three experts in different fields were appointed for the first time during 1885 to 1895 namely, agricultural chemist (Dr. J. W. Leafer), cryptogamic botanist (Dr. R. A. Butler) and entomologist (Dr. H. Maxwell Lefroy) with headquarters at Dehradun (U.P.) in the forest Research Institute complex.
Surprisingly, until now Pusa, which was destined to become the centre of agricultural revolution in the country, was lying as before an abandoned government estate. In 1898. Lord Curzon took over as the viceroy. A widely traveled person and an administrator, he salvaged out the earlier proposal and got London’s approval for the appointment of the inspector General of Agriculture to which the first incumbent Mr. J. Mollison (Dy. Director of Agriculture, Bombay) joined in 1901 with headquarters at Nagpur
The then government of Bengal had mooted in 1902 a proposal to the centre for setting up a model cattle farm for improving the dilapidated condition of the livestock at Pusa estate where plenty of land, water and feed would be available, and with Mr. Mollison’s support this was accepted in principle. Around Pusa, there were many British planters and also an indigo research centre Dalsing Sarai (near Pusa). Mr. Mollison’s visits to this mini British kingdom and his strong recommendations. In favour of Pusa as the most ideal place for the Bengal government project obviously caught the attention for the viceroy.
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ThesisItem Open Access Studies on Population Development on Pulse Grains and Eco-friendly Management of Pulse Beetle on Pigeon pea in Storage(Dr.RPCAU, Pusa, 2022) NAKAMBAM, SONALI; Singh, P. P.In order to study the population development of pulse beetle on different pulse grains and eco-friendly management of pulse beetle on pigeon pea in storage, a series of laboratory experiments were conducted in the Entomology laboratory of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar during the two consecutive years viz., 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. Findings related to different aspects of the present investigation viz., ovipositional preference, adult emergence, mean developmental period, index of susceptibility, per cent and weight loss caused by C. chinensis on different pulse grains, efficacy of various oils, botanicals and insecticides and performance of different storage structures in pigeon pea storage have been outlined below: For assessment of population development of pulse beetle and quantitative losses caused by pulse beetle on different pulse grains, the trials were conducted on six different hosts (lentil, field pea, green gram, bengal gram, pigeon pea and black gram) replicated four times under Completely Randomised Block Design. The preference for egg laying by C. chinensis on different pulse hosts revealed that eggs laid per 50 grains ranged from 62.37 to 110.37 eggs/50 seeds and maximum oviposition was recorded on pigeon pea (110.37 eggs/50 seeds) while lowest was observed on lentil (62.37 eggs/50 seeds). Likewise, average egg count/seed was computed which resulted minimum and maximum number of eggs laid on lentil and pigeon pea with values 1.25 and 2.21 eggs per seed, respectively. Subsequently, emergence of adult beetles as well as per cent survival of adults emerged from different host grains recorded highest in pigeon pea with 99.88 numbers and 90.40 per cent while lentil recorded lowest in both the parameters recording 41.13 and 65.34 per cent, respectively. The development period of pulse beetle (C. chinensis) on six different hosts revealed that shortest mean developmental period of beetles from egg to adult was found in pigeon pea (25.64 days) while beetle development in lentil took longest period (34.76 days). The result on index of susceptibility showed pigeon pea and lentil as the most and least susceptible to C. chinensis with susceptibility index of 7.79 and 4.56, respectively. On the basis of categorization given by Dobie (1974) pigeon pea falls in moderately resistant category while lentil comes under resistant category. Assessment of grain damage as well as weight loss was carried out at different days interval. Per cent grain damage at 30 days after insect release (DAIR) revealed maximum grain damage in pigeon pea (16.84%) followed by green gram (14.97%), bengal gram (13.49%), black gram (11.77%), field pea (9.51%) and lentil (7.06%). At 60 days after insect release, pigeon pea recorded highest per cent grain damage with 37.62 per cent which was followed by green gram (32.07%), bengal gram (30.78%), black gram (22.71%), field pea (14.51%) and lentil (12.11%). Likewise at 90 and 120 days after insect release, pigeon pea recorded maximum with (60.41, 81.89%), green gram (54.56, 77.16%), bengal gram (50.63, 69.28%), black gram (31.24, 51.95%) and no significant difference was observed between field pea (16.87%) and lentil (15.45%) at 90 DAIR but at 120 DAIR, significant difference was recorded between field pea (31.45%) and lentil (23.83%). Per cent weight directly correlated with the per cent grain damage in the present findings and there was significant variation among all the host grains. Starting from the initial month (30 DAIR) till 120 DAIR, pigeon pea recorded maximum weight loss followed by green gram, bengal gram, black gram, field pea and lentil. The order of per cent weight loss in all the four months study period is as follows: Pigeon pea (10.94, 17.00, 33.86, 62.63%), green gram (9.33, 15.55, 29.24,56.53%), bengal gram (7.89,13.44, 28.37%), black gram (6.88, 12.50, 20.04, 50.25%), field pea (4.76, 11.21, 14.72, 31.42%) and lentil (3.74, 8.07, 11.80, 17.88%). Pigeon pea being widely cultivated pulse crop, the efficacy of various grain protectants including oils, botanicals and safer insecticides were assessed with regard to of reduced per cent egg laying, emergence of adult, per cent grain damage and weight loss for a duration of four months at monthly interval (30 to 120 DAIR). The series of experiments consisted of ten treatments including untreated control with three replications under Completely Randomised Block Design (CRBD). Among all the treatments lowest number of eggs were laid on seeds treated with cypermethrin (10 EC) @ 0.05 ml/kg seeds (11.17 eggs/50 seeds) followed by spinosad (45 SC) @ 4 ppm/kg seeds (20.50 eggs/50 seeds). Among botanicals, lowest oviposition was recorded in mustard oil @ 5ml/ kg seeds (24.67 eggs/50 seeds) and all the treatments proved to be significantly effective in reducing the egg laying of Callosobruchus chinensis and superior over untreated control (98.67 eggs/50 seeds). Based on oviposition data, oviposition inhibition was computed which yielded maximum inhibition in seeds treated with cypermethrin (10 EC) @ 0.05 ml/kg seeds (88.67%) and minimum inhibition was recorded in seeds treated with YBSP @ 5g/kg seeds (39.91%). The data recorded on adult emergence and inhibition of adult emergence revealed that minimum adult emergence (12.93%) and maximum inhibition of adult emergence (84.54%) were recorded on seeds treated with cypermethrin (10 EC) @ 0.05ml/kg seeds while maximum adult emergence and minimum inhibition of adult emergence were recorded on seeds treated with YBSP @ 5g/kg seeds (67.43 and 18.93%). Efficacy of oils, botanicals and insecticides against C. chinensis infesting pigeon pea indicated that 30 DAIR, seeds treated with cypermethrin (10 EC) @ 0.05 ml/kg seed recorded the least grain damage (by count) with maximum protection of 0.87 per cent while maximum damage was recorded in YBSP @ 5g/kg seed (8.70%). Cypermethrin (10 EC) @ 0.05 ml/kg seed proved to be the most efficient treatment in reducing grain damage till 120 DAIR with 1.19, 2.14 and 3.10% while maximum damage was recorded in YBSP @ 5g/kg seed (17.71, 27.35 and 28.45%) at 60, 90 and 120 days, respectively. Grain damage (by weight) nearly inferred same pattern with the previous grain damage (by count). Cypermethrin (10 EC) @ 0.05 ml/kg seed proved to be the best treatment with significantly less per cent grain damage from 30 DAIR till 120 DAIR. At 30 DAIR, cypermethrin (10 EC) @ 0.05 ml/kg seed recorded 0.53 per cent damage which was on par with spinosad (45 SC) @4 ppm/kg seed (0.84%). Among botanically derived grain protectants mustard oil @ 5ml/kg was the most efficient one in reducing per cent grain damage with 1.28 per cent which was on par with turmeric leaf oil @ 5ml/kg (1.47%). Intermediate protection of grains was provided by seed treatment with garlic extract @ 5% (1.96%), neem oil @ 5ml/kg (2.48%), NSKE @ 5ml/kg (3.85%) and maximum grain damage with least protection was observed in seeds treated with YBSP @ 5g/kg seed (5.94%) followed by YBSE @ 5ml/kg (4.99%). Even after 120 DAIR, cypermethrin (10 EC) @ 0.05 ml/kg seed was the most efficient treatment with 1.99 per cent and seed treatment with YBSP @ 5g/kg seed recorded maximum grain damage (12.57%). The per cent weight loss also increased consequently with increased in storage period and corresponded with per cent grain damage. At 30 DAIR, cypermethrin (10 EC) @ 0.05 ml/kg seed provided maximum protection (0.54%) against C. chinensis. Among botanicals, mustard oil @ 5ml/kg (1.22%) also provided maximum protection and maximum weight loss was observed in YBSP @ 5g/kg seed (5.86%). All the treatments were found to be superior over untreated control (10.43%). From 60 to 120 DAIR, cypermethrin (10 EC) @ 0.05 ml/kg seed recorded lowest with values (0.65, 1.38, 1.81%) while maximum was observed in YBSP @ 5g/kg seed (14.20, 23.35%, 24.25%). All the treatments were superior over untreated control (10.43, 16.03%, 32.27 and 55.51 %) at 30, 60, 90 and 120 DAIR. YBSP @ 5g/kg seed was found to be on par with YBSE @ 5ml/kg seed and neem oil @ 5ml/kg seed with NSKE @ 5ml/kg seed at 120 days after insect release. The effect of oils, botanicals and insecticides on germination and seed vigour of pigeon pea seeds were tested at the end of storage period (120 DAIR) and germination percentage varied from 22.67 to 77.00 per cent with minimum in untreated control and maximum in cypermethrin (10 EC) @ 0.05 ml/kg seed. No significant difference was observed between neem oil @ 5 g/kg seed (63.17) and garlic extract @ 5% (62.33%) which was followed by NSKE @ 5 ml/kg seed (59.09%). The lower per cent germination was recorded in YBSP @ 5 ml/kg seed (54.50%) which was on par with YBSE @ 5 ml/kg seed (54.84%) and all treatments were significantly superior over untreated control (22.67%). The data on seed vigour index revealed that maximum was recorded in seeds treated with cypermethrin (10 EC) @ 0.05 ml/kg seed (1600.22) which was statistically on par with spinosad (45 SC) @ 4ppm/kg seed (1584.18) followed by mustard oil @ 5 ml/kg seed (1442.96) and lowest seed vigour index was observed in YBSE @ 5 ml/kg seed (1103.76) followed by YBSP @ 5 g/kg seed (1138.89) as against untreated control (381.96). For evaluation of the performance of various storage structures against C. chinensis, seven treatments including jute bag as check was taken which was replicated thrice under Completely Randomised Block Design. The data on per cent grain damage, weight loss, germination percentage and seed vigour index were recorded at two months interval i.e., 2 and 4 months after storage (MAS). At 2 MAS, seeds stored in Polythene lined jute bag (PLJB) provided maximum protection with lowest grain damage (7.64%) and least protection of grain with maximum damage was recorded in jute bag (19.84%) while at 4 MAS, PLJB provided maximum protection with least damage of grains of 9.98 per cent. The next best treatment was recorded in plastic jar (12.16%) followed by earthen pot (14.30%), HDPE bag (16.63%), PP bag (18.46%). Among all the different treatments, least protection of grains was recorded in seeds stored in jute bag (30.91%). Data recorded on per cent weight loss at 2 MAS revealed maximum protection was recorded in pigeon pea seeds were stored in PLJB (3.65%) and maximum weight loss was recorded in jute bag (11.61%) followed by cloth bag (10.20%) and at 4 MAS, lowest weight loss was recorded in pigeon pea grains stored in PLJB (5.05%) and maximum weight loss was recorded in cloth bag (15.29%) and all the storage structures performed better than jute bag (19.05%) taken as check. The data on germination and seed vigour index of pigeon pea seeds revealed that at 2 MAS, earthen pot performed best with maximum percent germination (91.33%) and was found to be on par with plastic jar (91.17%) and lowest was recorded in jute bag (77.33%) while at 4 MAS, germination percentage ranged from 65.17 to 90.33 per cent with minimum and maximum being recorded in jute bag and PLJB, respectively. At 2 MAS, maximum seed vigour index was recorded in pigeon pea seeds stored in earthen pot (1894.20), followed in decreasing order by PLJB (1877.06), plastic jar (1865.19), HDPE bag (1775.38), PP bag (1743.10), cloth bag (1659.46) and jute bag (1570.78) of which plastic jar, PLJB and earthen pot were on par and PP bag and HDPE bag were statistically similar while at 4 MAS, PLJB and plastic jar were on par and the most effective treatment in maintaining the seed vigour of pigeon pea seeds with values 1919.95 and 1850.77, respectively and all the storage structures were found to be significantly superior over check (1331.82) i.e., jute bag.ThesisItem Open Access Screening of Rapeseed-mustard Genotypes and Eco-friendly Management of Mustard Aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.).(Dr.RPCAU, Pusa, 2022) KARTHIK, SOMALA; Mukherjee, U.The current investigations were conducted on “Screening of Rapeseed-mustard genotypes and eco-friendly management against mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.)” during 2019-2020 & 2020-21. The surveys conducted during the year 2020 across India, revealed that Lipaphis erysimi pseudobrassicae was present in all the 16 locations surveyed belonging to 13 states and one Union Territory at over altitude ranging from 40.42 m (Dariapur) to 980.80 m (Barapani). The selective RAPD primers viz., OPA-02, OPA-04, F2 and SSR primers viz., ApH04M, Ap-01 and ApH08M were considered as informative for genetic diversity analysis based on polymorphic band percentage (>70), higher PIC, EMR, MI and RP. DNA barcoding of 16 locations with universal primer (LCO1490- Forward and RHCO2- Reverse) employed were amplified at 657 bp of mtCOI gene in Lipaphis erysimi pseudobrassicae. The phylogenetic tree showed the clustering of all 16 locations with L. e. pseudobrassicae reference sequence. Among 16 locations, Jorhat of North-Eastern India was found to be highly diverged with higher branch distance (0.13) in the phylogenetic tree and higher dissimilarity of 30.0 and 31.0 % in RAPD and SSR dendrograms respectively. The association of bacterial endosymbionts with L. e. pseudobrassicae showed that Buchnera sp, a primary endosymbiont was found in all the 16 locations. Whereas in secondary endosymbionts, Wolbachia sp, Rickettsia sp, and Hamiltonella sp dominated the most with 81.25 % and Cardinium sp liberated with 31.25 %. Among all 16 locations, Jodhpur and Ranchi had a 100 % incidence of endosymbionts and lower incidence was found in Ludhiana, Raipur, Dharwad, Alipur Bihta, Delhi, Jorhat (42.85 %). The inspections on population of alate mustard aphids and natural enemies i.e., adult coccinellids, syrphids and parasitoids in relation to weather parameters revealed their peak on 8th SMW (157.1, 6.48, 5.63, 14.62/ 4 traps) respectively and shown strong positive correlation with maximum temperature (0.445, 0.608*, 0.595*, 0.618*) and sunshine hrs (0.602*, 0.654*, 0.633*. 0.662*) respectively. Different Rapeseed-mustard genotypes were screened against mustard aphid resulting in identification of six promising genotypes among which, genotype RTM 314 had shown low AII (1.3), ADI (1.0) and ARI (1.15). The biochemical analysis also revealed the highest glucosinolates (109.87 µmole/g) and phenols (6.51 mg/g) content in RTM 314. Further, GC-MS analysis indicated the existence of biologically active compounds like 2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-nitro-1,3-Propanediol; 5-(Methylsulfinyl)pentanenitrile and 1-Isothiocyanato-4-(methylsulfinyl)butane only in RTM 314 which could be the reason for resistance against mustard aphid. Among different intercrop combinations, mustard + wheat (3:1) followed by mustard + barley (3:1) have recorded lowest aphid population (41.46, 42.79/ top 10 cm inflorescence of 10 plants) respectively and highest population of coccinellids (8.29, 7.76/ 10 plants), syrphids (6.57, 6.35/ 10 plants), parasitoids (14.01, 13.34/ 10 plants) and spiders (4.39, 4.21/ 10 plants) with superior yield (1213, 1201 kg/ha) respectively. The efficacy of various botanicals was also evaluated against mustard aphid and its natural enemies. Among the botanicals tested on mustard aphid, the % reduction of mustard aphid population over untreated control following the first and the second spray was the highest in Neem Seed Kernel Extract (NSKE) @ 5% (70.69, 87.97 %) followed by Yam Bean Seed Extract (YBSE) @ 5% (66.58, 86.06 %) and Bhang Leaf Extract (BLE) @ 5% (64.25, 84.56 %) respectively besides with higher population of natural enemies. However, based on B: C ratio, BLE @ 5% with 6.86:1 was found to be better followed by NSKE @ 5% (3.61:1) and YBSE @ 5% (3.31:1).ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON BIONOMICS OF BRINJAL SHOOT AND FRUIT BORER (Leucinodes orbonalis Guenée), ITS MANAGEMENT THROUGH NEWER INSECTICIDES AND THEIR RESIDUES IN/ON BRINJAL (Solanum melongena L.) FRUITS(Dr.RPCAU, Pusa, 2022) N, PONNUSAMY; Singh, S. P. N.The total 11 species of pests belongs to the 11 genera, 9 families and 3 orders were recorded associated with the brinjal ecosystem. And also noticed several natural enemies belongs to 9 species, 8 genera, 6 families and 5 orders. Whereas, the incidence of L. orbonalis were also observed in Solanum tuberosum, S. nigrum, S. indicum, S. torvum and S. lycopersicon which belongs to family Solanaceae. And also studied life cycle of L. orbonalis under laboratory conditions during 2019-20 and 2020-21 in Rabi and Zaid/ summer seasons. The incubation period was recorded around 3.93 and 4.25 days in Rabi, but 3.66 and 3.86 days in Zaid/ summer in both the years. The total larval period was around 15.86 and 16.32 days in Rabi and whereas, 11.37 and 11.83 days in Zaid/ summer. Though, the pupal period was recorded around 5.76 and 5.97 days in Rabi and 5.08 and 5.28 days in Zaid/ summer. The longevity of the male moth was recorded 4.05 and 3.73 days in Rabi, but 3.21 and 3.41 days in Zaid/ summer and female moth was recorded around 5.50 and 5.35 days in Rabi still 4.40 and 4.55 days in Zaid/ summer. The pre-oviposition was also observed around 1.51 and 1.74 days in Rabi and 1.07 and 1.30 days in Zaid/ summer. Oviposition period was 2.95 and 3.07 days in Rabi and 1.65 and 2 days in Zaid/ summer during both the years. The studies of population dynamics of brinjal shoot and fruit borer during Rabi and Zaid/ summer seasons of 2019-20 and 2020-21 revealed that, the peak shoot infestation was recorded around 9th and 11th week after transplantation during Rabi and Zaid/ summer, similarly the fruit infestation reached its peak at 21st and 21st on number basis, respectively whereas, on the basis of weight 9th and 16th week after transplantation. The maximum temperature was the only abiotic factors significantly (positive) correlated with shoot and fruit infestation of L. orbonalis in both the seasons. While, other weather parameters like minimum temperature, morning and evening relative humidity, rainfall, evaporation and sunshine were either significantly or non-significantly (positive or negative) correlated with shoot and fruit infestation. Bio-efficacy of new insecticides- chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 40 g a.i.ha-1 was significantly superior to all the insecticidal treatments and also recorded maximum fruit yield (295 q ha-1). It was followed by emamectin benzoate 5% SG @ 10 g a.i. ha-1 (259.25 q ha-1), spinosad 45% SC @ 84 g a.i. ha-1 (256 q ha-1), lambdacyhalothrin 5% EC @ 15 g a.i. ha-1 (219.25 q ha-1), thiacloprid 21.7% SC @ 180 g a.i. ha-1(209.5 q ha-1), dimethoate 30% EC @ 200 g a.i. ha-1 (171.5 q ha-1), pyriproxyfen 5% EC + fenpropathrin 15% EC @ 150 g a.i. ha-1 (159.75 q ha-1), betacyfluthrin 8.49% + imidacloprid 19.81% OD @ 60 g a.i. ha-1 (138.5 q ha-1) and were at statistically at par with each other. The maximum B: C ratio (1: 2.86) was obtained in chlorantraniliprole compared to other treatments like emamectin benzoate (1: 2.63), spinosad (1: 2.38), lambda-cyhalothrin (1: 2.24), thiacloprid (1: 1.90), dimethoate (1:1.73), pyriproxyfen + fenpropathrin (1: 1.57) and betacyfluthrin + imidacloprid (1: 1.44). Quantitative estimation of the residues of chlorantraniliprole in/on brinjal was done by HPLC. The samples of brinjal were processed using QuEChERS technique. The mean recovery of chlorantraniliprole was found 80.92 to 82.07 per cent, respectively. The mean recoveries of matrix matched standards were about 92.77 to 95.20 per cent. The matrix effect (%) were -13.60, +11.9, +1.22, -9.28 and +17.05 for different concentrations viz., 2, 1, 0.5, 0.1 and 0.05 μg ml-1. The LOQ was observed to be 0.05 mg kg-1. The mean initial deposit of chlorantraniliprole @ 40 g a.i. ha-1 was obtained to be 0.43 mg kg-1 and 0.92 mg kg-1 @ 80 g a.i. ha-1. The residues of chlorantraniliprole was found to be dissipated to a mean level of 0.26 mg kg-1 and 0.54 mg kg-1 one day after spraying which shown a dissipation 39.53 and 41.30 per cent residues at single as well as double doses. The mean level of residue was found to be 0.15 mg kg-1, 0.27 mg kg-1. It showed per cent dissipation about 65.12 and 70.65 per cent residues in 3 days after spray. The mean level of residue was found to be 0.10 mg kg-1 and shown a dissipation about 89.13 per cent in 5 days after spray at double dose. The residues were found below the limit of quantification (LOQ) in 5 and 7 days after spray at single and double doses. The T1/2 of chlorantraniliprole were calculated to be 0.974 and 1.610 days when applied at single and double doses after 3rd spray on brinjal. The mean initial deposits of chloantraniliprole was observed to be below the MRL in one day after spray at both the doses on brinjal. The mean initial deposit of washing effect was obtained to be 0.43 mg kg-1 of chlorantraniliprole which was reduced to 0.36 mg kg-1 for single dose in zero day after spray. Whereas, the mean initial deposit was found to be 0.26 mg kg-1 which was reduced to 0.23 mg kg-1 for single dose in one day after spray. For double dose, the initial deposit was found to be 0.92 mg kg-1 which was reduced to 0.69 mg kg-1 in zero day after spray. Though, the initial deposit was gained to be 0.54 mg kg-1, it reduced to 0.42 mg kg-1 for double dose in one day after spray.ThesisItem Open Access Monitoring of major insect pests associated with green gram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] and their management(DRPCAU, PUSA, 2022) VAMSHI, GADHE; SINGH, S.P.N.The present research entitled “Monitoring of major insect pests associated with green gram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] and their management” was carried out at Research Farm, T.C.A., Dholi during the summer season 2022. The green gram variety HUM 16 was taken as a test variety for the research programme. During the course of my studies, the observations recorded to six species as major pests on green gram. Whitefly and jassids were first observed during the 12th standard week 21 days after sowing (0.37 whiteflies/ three leaves and 0.50 jassids/ three leaves) which increased gradually and attained its peak population (5.53 whiteflies/ three leaves and 5.70 jassids/ three leaves) during the 15th standard week, the incidence of thrips on the 13th standard week 28 days after sowing (0.83 thrips/ 10 flower buds) followed by spotted pod borer started (1.33 larvae/ 10 plants) during the 14th standard week. After that, Pod bug and gram pod borer populations began to infest the green gram (2.50 pod bugs/plant and 0.67 larvae/ 10 plants, correspondingly) (15th SMW). The population of insect pests at its maximum was found in the crop in (16th SMW) in whiteflies (6.00), jassids (8.03) and thrips (15.10). The highest population of pod bug (5.43), spotted pod borer (8.45) and gram pod borer (3.33) were noted during the 18th standard week. After that, it was noted that the population was decreasing trends during crop maturity stage. The study found the major insect pests were positively correlated with maximum and minimum temperature but negatively with relative humidity, except gram pod borer was favourable association with evening relative humidity. Pod bug, spotted pod borer, and gram pod borer populations were positively correlated with rainfall, while whitefly, jassids, and flower thrips populations were negatively correlated with rainfall. All the treatments are were found significantly superior over untreated control. Among all the treatments T1 flubendiamide 480 SC (0.1 ml/l) was discovered to be more efficient at suppressing the larvae population of Maruca vitrata and Helicoverpa armigera on the green gram, it was ranging from 54.18 to 76.63 per cent and 49.25 to 75.27 per cent reduction over control followed by T4 indoxacarb 14.5 SC (0.3 ml/l). The lowest amount of pod damage was noticed in flubendiamide 480 SC 4.00 per cent treated plot followed by indoxacarb 14.5 SC 4.33 per cent and the maximum was found in NSKE (5%) treated plots. The flubendiamide 480 SC treatment obtained the highest grain yield (915 kg/ha), which is statistically superior to all other treatments. indoxacarb 14.5 SC {13.23:1} had the highest incremental cost-benefit ratio and was at par with emamectin benzoate {10.33:1}.ThesisItem Open Access DIVERSITY OF BEE POLLINATORS IN MUSTARD & SWEET BASIL(DRPCAU, PUSA, 2022) SATISH, BUDI; Kumar, NagendraThese studies were carried out during the period of December 2021 to January 2022 on “Diversity of Bee pollinators in mustard & sweet basil’’ at Rpcau, (pusa)with the objective of diversity of bee pollinators, foraging behaviour and impact of weather on population of Bee pollinator had been recorded. In mustard a total of 7 bee pollinators belong to 3 families which includes Apidae, Halcitidae and Andrenidae were recorded during the blooming period. In mustard, we obtained total 564 individuals & the results showed Shannon index 1.46, Simpson index 0.74 and evenness index 0.751. In sweet basil a total of 17 Bee pollinators belong to 3 families which includes Apidae, Halcitidae and Andrenidae were recorded. We obtained total 926 individuals & results showed Shannon index 1.82, Simpson index 0.79 and evenness index 0.644. In mustard for A. dorsata the mean time of initiation of foraging was 7:45 hrs and mean cessation of foraging time was 16:51 pm of the day with average duration of foraging was 8.86 hours. In A. mellifera the mean time of Initiation of foraging was 8:13 hrs and mean cessation time of foraging was 16:47 pm of the day with average duration of foraging was 8.26 hours. For A. cerana the mean time of initiation of foraging was 8:28 hrs & mean cessation time of foraging was 16:34 pm of the day with average duration of foraging was 7.95 hours. In sweet basil for A. dorsata the mean time of initiation of foraging was 7:46 hrs. & mean cessation time of foraging was 16:52 pm of the day with average duration of foraging was 8.96 hours. For A. mellifera the mean time of initiation of foraging was 8:11 hrs & mean cessation time of foraging was 16:49 pm of the day with average duration of foraging was 8.37 hours. A. cerana the mean time of initiation time of foraging was 8:26 hrs. & mean cessation time of foraging was 16:31 pm of the day with average duration of foraging was 8.05 hours. In mustard the greatest foraging rate for Apis dorsata was noticed at 17:00 hours which were 14.83±3.39 flowers/min. the greatest foraging rate for Apis mellifera was noticed at 17:00 hours which was 14.47±3.14flowers/min. In Apis cerana the maximum foraging rate was observed at 17:00 hours which were 18.69±3.99 flowers/min. In sweet basil, for Apis mellifera the maximum foraging rate was observed at 17:00 hours which were 14.77±2.98flowers/min. In Apis dorsata the highest foraging rate was noted at 17:00 hours which were 14.42±2.98flowers/min. In Apis cerana the maximum foraging rate was observed at 17:00 hours which were 18.30±3.77flowers/min. In mustard average foraging speed of Apis mellifera over complete period of flowering was 3.65±0.53 sec/flower. Average foraging speed of Apis dorsata over complete period of flowering was 3.70±0.58sec/flower. Average foraging speed of Apis cerana over complete period of flowering was2.82±0.53sec/flower. In sweet basil the average foraging speeds of Apis mellifera over complete period of flowering was3.68±0.52sec/flower. Average foraging speed of Apis dorsata over complete period of flowering was3.73±0.57sec/flower. Average foraging speed of Apis cerana over complete period of flowering was 2.89±0.52sec/flower. Pearson correlation co-efficient (r) revealed that in both mustard & sweet basil bee pollinators sunlight, maximum and lowest temperatures are positively connected. In contrast bee pollinators were negatively correlated with relative humidity &rainfall.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON POPULATION DYNAMICS AND MANAGEMENT OF APHIDS ON FENUGREEK(DRPCAU, PUSA, 2022) Reddy, Kallem Manish; Prasad, RabindraThe investigations on “Studies on population dynamics and management of aphids on fenugreek” revealed that aphid Aphis craccivora (Koch) was recorded at Muraul research farm of Trihut College of Agriculture, Dholi, Muzaffarpur, Bihar during Rabi season, 2021-22. The incidence of aphid, A. craccivora on fenugreek was observed from 1st SMW to 13th SMW with population ranging from 7.67 to 97.33 aphids/ 5 plants in different standard meteorological weeks respectively. Peak period of occurrence of aphid were recorded on 7th SMW with maximum population of A. craccivora (97.33 aphids per 5 plants) recorded at maximum temperature of 24.070C, minimum temperature of 9.740C, morning relative humidity (95.86%) and evening relative humidity (53.86%) respectively. Minimum temperature showed negative significant impact on the incidence of A. craccivora [-0.579*]. Highly significant positive correlation between natural enemies (lady bird beetle and green lace wing) and aphid population. Among twenty genotypes screened for their resistance against aphid, Aphis craccivora on fenugreek crop, but all genotypes are infested by aphids. However, the genotypes RM-12, RM-28, RM-190 and RM-198 were categorized as least susceptible, RM-192, RM-200, RM-203 and Rajendra Kranti were categorized as highly susceptible and the remaining genotypes RM-13, RM-15, RM-170, RM-187, RM-195, RM-205, RM-209, RM-212, RM-214, RM-215, RM-217 and RM-219 are moderately susceptible against aphid, A. craccivora. Out of eight treatments, (including six botanical pesticides, one insecticide and control respectively) Dimethoate 30 EC 0.03% @ 150 g a.i./ha proved most effective against aphid, Aphis craccivora on fenugreek crop. However, treatments which found next in order of efficacy were NSKE 5% which is equivalent to Garlic bulb extract 5%, Neem oil 2% followed by tobacco decoction 5% which was at par with Karanj oil 2%. The least effective treatment was YBSE 5% . Among the evaluated eight treatments, the maximum seed yield (1722.05 kg/ha) was documented with the treatment of Dimethoate 30 EC (0.03%) @ 150 g a.i./ha followed by NSKE 5% (1632.85 kg/ha), Garlic bulb extract 5% (1592.46 kg/ha), Neem oil 2% (1559.26 kg/ha), tobacco decoction 5% (1510.75 kg/ha), karanj oil 2% (1466.18kg/ha), Yam bean seed extract (YBSE) 5% (1422.54 kg/ha) and control (1338.15 kg/ha) respectively. Considering the economics of these treatments, the maximum ICBR (1:9.23) was recorded in Dimethoate 30 EC 0.03% @ 150 g a.i./ha then after that tobacco decoction 5% (1:4.50), Garlic bulb extract 5% (1:4.30), NSKE 5% (1:4.03), Karanj oil 2% (1:1.57), Neem oil 2% (1:1.34) and the lowest ICBR (1:0.35) was recorded in Yam bean seed extract (YBSE) 5% respectively. Taking in consideration to the overall efficacy, yield and economics of various treatments against aphids, the treatment of Dimethoate 30 EC 0.03% @ 150 g a.i./ha, NSKE 5%, Garlic bulb extract 5% and tobacco decoction 5% had been proved to be better than the remaining treatments and can be suggested for efficient and cost-effective management of A. craccivora from incidence on fenugreek.ThesisItem Open Access Field screening of Brassica genotypes against Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) and its population dynamics(DRPCAU, PUSA, 2022) Tudu, Lohit; Mukherjee, U.The present investigation entitled “Field screening of Brassica genotypes against Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) and its population dynamics” was conducted during 2021-22 cropping season at Research Farm of Tirhut College of Agriculture, Dholi, Muzaffarpur, Bihar. The study focused on evaluation of 41 Brassica genotypes for their susceptibility or resistance against mustard aphid (Lipaphis erysimi) and exploring the population dynamics of mustard aphid and coccinellid beetles in relation to weather parameters. During the screening of 41 Brassica genotypes, overall mean population of aphids/ top 10 cm of inflorescence ranged from 23.46 to 104.78. The genotypes DRMR 2018-19 and PDZ 14 were infested with minimum and maximum numbers of aphid population, respectively, whereas check variety Yellow sarson (66-197-3) had aphid population of 76.17 aphids/ top 10 cm of inflorescence. Based on aphid infestation index (AII), two genotypes were grouped as resistant. 13 genotypes as moderately resistant, 19 genotypes as susceptible and 7 genotypes were grouped as highly susceptible. The highest and lowest AII was recorded in PDZ 14 (4.23) and DRMR 2018-19 (1.65), respectively. Check variety Yellow sarson had aphid infestation index of 3.5. The population dynamics of aphid (L. erysimi) in relation to weather parameters was studied on four rapeseed-mustard varieties viz., T-27, GSC-6, BSH-1 and Rajendra Sufalam. Aphid infestation in all the varieties started from 3rd standard meteorological week (SMW) and except for T-27 (minimum population in 10th SMW) continued till 11th standard meteorological week (SMW). Peak infestation was observed during 7th SMW irrespective of all the varieties, when maximum and minimum temperature were 24.07℃ and 9.74℃ and relative humidity at 07:00 hours and 14:00 hours were 95.86 and 53.86 per cent, respectively. The correlation analysis revealed that among the various weather parameters, minimum temperature had negative significant impact on the aphid population of T-27 (-0.642*) and GSC-6 (-0.638*), whereas relative humidity at 07:00 hours had positive significant correlation with the population build-up of aphids across all the varieties viz., T-27 (0.646*), GSC-6 (0.654*), BSH-1 (0.633*) and Rajendra Sufalam (0.638*). Other abiotic factors had non-significant impact on the population fluctuation of aphids. On the other hand, the population of ladybird beetle was in positive and highly significant correlation with aphids on each variety of rapeseed-mustard.ThesisItem Open Access Studies on population dynamics and management of pod fly (Melanagromyza obtusa) and pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera) on pigeonpea(DRPCAU, PUSA, 2022) Patel, Yogesh Kumar; Singh, P.P.The research entitled “Studies on population dynamics and management of pod fly (Melanagromyza obtusa) and pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera) on pigeonpea” was carried out under field conditions at research farm of T.C.A., Dholi (Muzaffarpur) during Kharif season 2021-2022. The maximum population of M. obtusa maggots and pupae (12.77 maggot and 14.63 pupae/50 pods) on pigeonpea variety Rajendra Arhar-1 was recorded during 11th and 12th SMW, respectively while maximum larval population of H. armigera (6.17 larvae/5plants) was recorded on 11th SMW. Maximum activity of natural enemies was recorded on 11th SMW during observation period. The M. obtusa maggot’s population showed non-significant positive correlationwith the maximum and minimum temperature, morning relative humidity and rainfall showed non-significant negative correlation, while evening relative humidity showed significant negative correlation. The correlation analysis between M. obtusa pupae and abiotic factors showed that only rainfall had non-significant negative correlation and maximum and minimum temperature showed significant positive correlation, while morning and evening relative humidity were found to have negative but significant correlation. The larval population of H. armigera showed non-significant positive correlation with maximum and minimum temperature while morning relative humidity and rainfall had a non-significant negative correlation. Whereas, evening relative humidity was found significant negative correlation. Among 16 pigeonpea genotypes screened against the pod fly, no single genotypes were found highly resistant and 2 genotypes, i.e., DA 15-1 and DA 16-1, were reported as moderately resistant while 8 genotypes BRA 301, Pusa 153, BRA 302, Pusa 171, Pusa 172, DA 17-1, DA 19-1 and DA 18-1 were identified as Intermediate resistant. Four genotypes viz; BRA 303, Pusa 181, Pusa 182 and DA 18-2 were identified susceptible as against Rajendra Arhar-1 and Bahar used as moderately tolerant and susceptible. The pod damage per cent due to M. obtusa and H. armigera on different genotypes was varied significantly. Among all 16 genotypes the maximum pod damage was recorded in DA 18-2 (66.67% and 35.33%), while the lowest pod damage was observed in pigeonpea genotype DA 16-1 (26.67% and 21.33%) as against Rajendra Arhar-1 (35.33% and 22.67%) used as moderately tolerant check and Bahar (61.33% and 32.67%) used as susceptible check due to M. obtusa and H. armigera, respectively under the natural conditions. Among all 16 genotypes maximum seed damage was recorded in DA 18-2 (33.61% and 21.41%), while the lowest seed damage were observed in the genotypes DA 16-1 (17.25% and 13.96%) as against Rajendra Arhar-1 (22.31% and 15.16%) used as moderately tolerant check and Bahar (32.67% and 20.04%) used as susceptible check, respectively. Nine treatments including six synthetic and two botanical insecticides applied twice at 50% flowering and 50% podding stage stage were tested for their field efficacy against the M. obtusa and H. armigera. All the treatments are found significantly superior over untreated control. Among all the treatments flubendiamide (480 SC) @ 30 g a.i./ha was found most effective in controlling pod fly and gram pod borer incidence with less pod and grain damage and maximum yield (10.67% pod damage, 6.31% grain damage and 1740 kg/ha) which was at par with indoxacarb (15.8% EC) @ 50 g a.i./ha. (12.67% pod damage, 7.62% grain damage and 1545 kg/ha) as against control (35.67% pod damage, 20.54% grain damage and 748 kg/ha). On the basis of economic parameters highest incremental benefit-cost ratio (14.51:1) was obtained by indoxacarb followed by buprofezin (10.38:1), thiamethaxon (9.98:1), profenofos (7.43:1), flubendiamide (6.94:1), fipronil (6.48:1), NSKE (4.79:1) and the treatment of YBSE was found lowest incremental benefit-cost ratio (1.16:1).ThesisItem Open Access Morpho-molecular characterization and assessing the effect of sowing time on aphid incidence in wheat(DRPCAU, PUSA, 2022) A, KEERTHANA; Reddy, M. S. SaiThe present investigations were carried out on “Morpho-molecular characterization and assessing the effect of sowing time on aphid incidence in wheat” during 2020-22. The studies revealed that 43 species of arthropod fauna were infesting the wheat crop which belonged to nine orders covering 12 families. Among these nine orders, three orders such as Hemiptera, Diptera and Coleoptera have highest relative abundance. In particular to Hemipterans, there were six aphid species which were found to be the most predominant insects during the 2021-22 cropping season. Along with these aphids, shoot fly and jassids were also known to infest the wheat crop throughout the cropping season. The succession of these major insect pests showed that aphids, Rhopalosiphum maidis, Rhopalosiphum rufiabdominalis, Jassids and Shoot fly were found on vegetative stages and Rhopalosiphum padi, Sitobion avenae, Schizaphis graminum and Metoplophium dirhodum were found on reproductive stages of the crop. Whereas the population of Rhopalosiphum maidis and Rhopalosiphum rufiabdominalis were completely absent in the timely and late sown crop. The seasonal incidence of all major insect pests showed that evening relative humidity, maximum temperature and bright sunshine hours were significantly correlated with the population of aphids whereas jassids showed a significantly positive correlation with maximum temperature and shoot fly showed a significantly negative correlation with minimum temperature. In molecular characterization and phylogenetic divergence of wheat aphids revealed that Metopolophium dirhodum and Sitobion avenae belonged to tribe Macrosiphini whereas the remaining species Rhopalosiphum padi, Rhopalosiphum rufiabdominalis, Rhoplosiphum maidis and Schizaphis graminum belonged to a tribe Aphidini. In screening of one hundred and fifty-three wheat genotypes, 141 genotypes were found resistant to aphids. Among these genotypes, HPW487, VL3029, VL3030, HPW483, HPW484, HPE486, HS688, VL2050, VL907(C), RAJ4083(C), MP1378, HI8830(d)*, MACS6795, DBW316#*, PBW833*, JKW261(I)(C), NIAW3170(C), HD3397, HD3400, HD3418, HI1654*, CG1029(C) were the best genotypes for biotic stresses as well as for other morpho-physiological traits. The effect of sowing dates on aphid incidence revealed that, the early sown wheat varieties were heavily infested by aphids compared to timely and late sown crop. It was found that the variety HD 2967 showed resistance under all three different and also found to have better morphophysiological traits.
