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Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur

The Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University (APAU) was established on 12th June 1964 at Hyderabad. The University was formally inaugurated on 20th March 1965 by Late Shri. Lal Bahadur Shastri, the then Hon`ble Prime Minister of India. Another significant milestone was the inauguration of the building programme of the university by Late Smt. Indira Gandhi,the then Hon`ble Prime Minister of India on 23rd June 1966. The University was renamed as Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University on 7th November 1996 in honour and memory of an outstanding parliamentarian Acharya Nayukulu Gogineni Ranga, who rendered remarkable selfless service for the cause of farmers and is regarded as an outstanding educationist, kisan leader and freedom fighter. HISTORICAL MILESTONE Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) was established under the name of Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University (APAU) on the 12th of June 1964 through the APAU Act 1963. Later, it was renamed as Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University on the 7th of November, 1996 in honour and memory of the noted Parliamentarian and Kisan Leader, Acharya N. G. Ranga. At the verge of completion of Golden Jubilee Year of the ANGRAU, it has given birth to a new State Agricultural University namely Prof. Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University with the bifurcation of the state of Andhra Pradesh as per the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act 2014. The ANGRAU at LAM, Guntur is serving the students and the farmers of 13 districts of new State of Andhra Pradesh with renewed interest and dedication. Genesis of ANGRAU in service of the farmers 1926: The Royal Commission emphasized the need for a strong research base for agricultural development in the country... 1949: The Radhakrishnan Commission (1949) on University Education led to the establishment of Rural Universities for the overall development of agriculture and rural life in the country... 1955: First Joint Indo-American Team studied the status and future needs of agricultural education in the country... 1960: Second Joint Indo-American Team (1960) headed by Dr. M. S. Randhawa, the then Vice-President of Indian Council of Agricultural Research recommended specifically the establishment of Farm Universities and spelt out the basic objectives of these Universities as Institutional Autonomy, inclusion of Agriculture, Veterinary / Animal Husbandry and Home Science, Integration of Teaching, Research and Extension... 1963: The Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University (APAU) Act enacted... June 12th 1964: Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University (APAU) was established at Hyderabad with Shri. O. Pulla Reddi, I.C.S. (Retired) was the first founder Vice-Chancellor of the University... June 1964: Re-affilitation of Colleges of Agriculture and Veterinary Science, Hyderabad (estt. in 1961, affiliated to Osmania University), Agricultural College, Bapatla (estt. in 1945, affiliated to Andhra University), Sri Venkateswara Agricultural College, Tirupati and Andhra Veterinary College, Tirupati (estt. in 1961, affiliated to Sri Venkateswara University)... 20th March 1965: Formal inauguration of APAU by Late Shri. Lal Bahadur Shastri, the then Hon`ble Prime Minister of India... 1964-66: The report of the Second National Education Commission headed by Dr. D.S. Kothari, Chairman of the University Grants Commission stressed the need for establishing at least one Agricultural University in each Indian State... 23, June 1966: Inauguration of the Administrative building of the university by Late Smt. Indira Gandhi, the then Hon`ble Prime Minister of India... July, 1966: Transfer of 41 Agricultural Research Stations, functioning under the Department of Agriculture... May, 1967: Transfer of Four Research Stations of the Animal Husbandry Department... 7th November 1996: Renaming of University as Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University in honour and memory of an outstanding parliamentarian Acharya Nayukulu Gogineni Ranga... 15th July 2005: Establishment of Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University (SVVU) bifurcating ANGRAU by Act 18 of 2005... 26th June 2007: Establishment of Andhra Pradesh Horticultural University (APHU) bifurcating ANGRAU by the Act 30 of 2007... 2nd June 2014 As per the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act 2014, ANGRAU is now... serving the students and the farmers of 13 districts of new State of Andhra Pradesh with renewed interest and dedication...

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Subject: Agronomy × End date: 2018 × Start date: 2017 ×
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    PLANTING DENSITY AND INM INTERVENTIONS IN SESAME PRODUCTION
    (Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2018) SAI KUMAR, R; PRASAD, P. V. N.
    A field experiment entitled “Planting Density and INM Interventions in Sesame Production” was conducted at Agricultural College Farm, in sandy loam soil of Bapatla during rabi 2017-18. The treatments comprised combination of two planting densities viz., S1( 2.22 lakh plants ha-1), S2( 3.33 lakh plants ha-1) and five nutrient treatments F1(100%RDF (60, 40, 60 NPK ha-1), F2(75% RDF + 5t FYM ha-1), F3(75% RDF + 0.75 t PM ha-1), F4(75% RDF + 1.3t Sun hemp Green manuring ha-1) , F5(25% RDF + FYM 5t ha-1 + PM 0.75 t ha-1 + Sun hemp Green manuring 1.3t ha-1). The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications. Numerically taller plants were produced at higher planting density of 3.33 lakh plants ha-1 than lower planting density (2.22 lakh plants ha-1)at 30, 60 DAS but significantly taller plants (77.3 cm)was recorded at maturity. Significantly the highest plant height (34.4cm, 64.9cm, and 79.5cm) at 30, 60 DAS and maturity respectively was recorded with the application of treatment F5 and the lowest plant height was observed with treatment F3. Drymatter accumulation (193 kg ha-1, 1348 kg ha-1 and 2548 kg ha-1) was significantly higher in plant densities of 3.33 lakh plants ha-1 at all the stages of crop growth (30, 60 DAS and at maturity). Treatment F5 produced significantly higher drymatter (187, 1659, 2704 kg ha-1) at 30, 60 DAS and maturity respectively and the lowest drymatter production was recorded in treatment F3. Number of capsules plant-1(35) was recorded significantly higher in plant density (2.22 lakh ha -1) with a spacing of 45cm X 10cm. Application of treatment F5 has recorded significantly higher number of capsules per plant (37.0). However lower number of capsules per plant (31.1) was noticed with treatment F3. Numerically the highest test weight (2.49 g) was recorded with the spacing of 30 cm X 10 cm. Among the treatments the test weight of 2.56 g was recorded numerically higher weight with the treatment F5. xiii The highest seed yield and stalk yield (713.5 kg ha-1, 1604 kg ha-1) was produced in higher planting density (3.33lakh ha-1) with the spacing of 30cm X 10cm. significantly the highest seed yield (794 kg ha-1) was recorded under F5 treatment. Application of treatment F5 has recorded the highest stalk yield (1795 kg ha-1) and it was on par with treatment F2. The lowest seed and stalk yields (619 kg ha-1, 1362.5 kg ha-1) was recorded with the treatment F3. Numerically the highest harvest index (30.8 %) was observed in 30cm X 10cm planting density as compared to 45cm X 10 cm planting density. Application of treatment F5 recorded numerically higher harvest index (31.5%) and lowest harvest index (29.5 %) was registered with treatment F3 Oil content of 48.24 % was observed in plant density of 3.33lakh plant ha-1, which was numerically higher than plant density of 2.22 lakh plant ha-1.Among the nutrient treatments the oil content of 48.8 % the maximum was recorded under the treatment F5. Protein content of 23.47 % was observed in plant density of 3.33lakh plant ha-1, which was numerically higher than protein content in plant density of 2.22 lakh plant ha-1. Application of treatment F5 the highest recorded protein content (24.41%) Numerically higher nitrogen content in seed and stalk (3.74%, 1.74 %) was noticed in 30cm X 10 cm spacing Significantly the highest nitrogen content in seed and stalk (3.91 %, 1.88 %) were recorded with treatment F5. Numerically higher phosphorus content in seed and stalk (1.35%, 0.39 %) was noticed in 30cm X 10 cm spacing. Among the treatments, numerically higher P content of 1.36 % in seed, was noticed however P content of stalk (0.43%) was significantly higher in treatment F5. Numerically higher potassium content in seed and stalk (1.93%, 1.40 %), was noticed in 30cm X 10 cm spacing. Among the treatments numerically higher K content of 1.94 %, in seed, was exhibited however the K content of stalk (1.54 %) was significantly higher in treatment F5. Significantly the highest total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake (69.5 kg ha-1, 19.5 kg ha-1, 49.5kg ha-1) of sesame was recorded with 30 cm X 10 cm. Among the nutrient treatments, maximum total uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (81.6 kg ha-1, 22.3 kg ha-1, 57.0 kg ha-1) in sesame was recorded with treatment F5. The lowest total uptake of nitrogen recorded with treatment F3. Significantly the highest available nitrogen (183 kg ha-1), phosphorus (10.5 kg ha-1) and potassium (268 kg ha-1) in soil after harvest of sesame in 45cm X 10cm spacing (2.22 lakh plant ha-1). The highest gross returns (Rs.42091 ha-1), net returns (Rs. 17926 ha-1) and returns per rupee investment (1.74) were recorded with application of 25%RDF + 5t FYM ha-1 + 0.75 t PM ha-1 + 1.3t Sunhemp Green manuring ha-1 over all other treatment combinations, followed by treatment F2.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT STUDIES IN SWEET CORN
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) KAVYA, T; VENKATESWARLU, B
    Agriculture is one of the most significant sectors of the Indian economy. Population of India is 1.332 billion in 2017 and estimated an increase in population of 1.807 billion by the end of 2050. Hence, it is required to produce more food to meet the needs of growing population. Yield of a crop can be increased by using high yield variety of seeds or using proper agricultural practices and preventing yield loss due to natural factors like weeds, insects, rodents, etc. Out of these factors weed is one of important component which cause the serious damage to the crop yield, this include the decrease in crop yield, increase the cost of production, lower the quality of crop. Weed causes 20-30% loss in yield which might increase up to 80% if adequate crop practices are not observed. Adoption of proper weed management technologies results in additional national income of Rs. 1, 05,036 crores per annum (NRCWS, 2007). Present study was carried out on development of adjustable self-propelled basket weeder. Prototype of basket power weeder was developed by considering the optimized gear ratio of 1:2 among the three gear ratios, through manually operated test weeder and the prototype weeder was evaluated for its performance parameters such as weeding efficiency, weed index, plant damage, effective field capacity, field efficiency, performance index, fuel consumption and cost of operation of weeder in groundnut, maize, chilli and cotton crops. Results of the basket test weeder showed the weeding efficiency of 68.92%, 81.93% and 75.47% with 1:1.5, 1:2 and 1:3 gear ratios, respectively. Plant damage was 1.6%, 0.96% and 2.38% with 1:1.5, 1:2 and 1:3 gear ratios, respectively. Field efficiency was found to be 78.86%, 83.92% and 60.36% with 1:1.5, 1:2 and 1:3 gear ratios, respectively. Results of the adjustable self-propelled basket power weeder showed the highest and lowest values of weeding efficiency were obtained as 79.49% in maize crop and 76.33% in groundnut crop at 30 days of weeding operation. Highest and lowest values of weeding efficiency at 60 days of weeding operation were obtained as 75.59% in maize crop and 70.57% in groundnut crop. Plant width increased about 3% to 4% of plant damage at 60 days of weeding operation compared to 30 days of weeding operation in all the four crops. High field efficiency was found to be 80.07% in maize followed by 79.89% in cotton, 79.63% in groundnut crop and low was found to be 79.39% in chilli crop. High performance index was obtained as 93.09 in maize followed by 89.75 in cotton, 87.92 in chilli and lower was found to be 86.31 in groundnut crop. Less fuel consumption was found to be 0.58 L h-1 in chilli crop followed by 0.60 L h-1 in both groundnut and cotton crops and higher was obtained as 0.62 L h-1 in maize crop. Reduction in cost of weeding operation by using prototype weeder over the manual weeder is 74.80%, 74.95%, 74.72% and 74.89% in groundnut, maize, chilli and cotton crops respectively. Saving of time by using prototype basket power weeder over manual weeder is 94.51%, 94.54%, 94.48% and 94.52% in groundnut, maize, chilli and cotton crops, respectively.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    ZINC FORTIFICATION FOR GRAIN QUALITY AND YIELD OF FINGER MILLET (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn)
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) SRAVANI, KOMMADI; NAGAVANI, A. V.
    A field experiment entitled ‘Zinc fortification for grain quality and yield of finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn)’ was carried out during kharif, 2017 on sandy loam soils of wetland farm, S. V. Agricultural College, Tirupati, Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University. The experiment was laidout in randomized block design and replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of T1 (100% RDF through inorganics), T2 (100% RDF through inorganics + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1), T3 (100% RDF through inorganics + Foliar nutrition of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% twice at flowering), T4 (100% RDF through Farmyard Manure), T5 (100% RDF through FYM + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1), T6 (100% RDF through FYM + Foliar nutrition of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% twice at flowering), T7 (75% RDF through inorganics + 25% RDF through FYM + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1) and T8 (75% RDF through inorganics + 25% RDF through FYM + Foliar nutrition of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% twice at flowering). Finger millet variety, Vakula (PPR-2700) was tested with an inter and intra row spacing of 22.5 cm x 10 cm. Zinc application practices exerted significant effect on the plant growth characters, yield attributes, yield, quality parameters, economic returns and nutrient uptake by finger millet as well as the post harvest soil fertility status. Among the different zinc application practices, T2 (100% RDF through inorganics + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1) resulted in the tallest plants, maximum LAI, highest dry matter production and total number of tillers m-2 and it was comparable with T7 (75% RDF through inorganics + 25% xvi RDF through FYM + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1), while all the other treatments were at their lowest with T4 (100% RDF through Farmyard Manure). The number of days taken for 50 per cent flowering was less with T2 (100% RDF through inorganics + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1), whereas, T4 (100% RDF through Farmyard Manure) resulted in delayed flowering. All the yield attributes of finger millet viz., number of earheads m-2, number of fingers earhead-1, earhead length, earhead weight, grain weight earhead-1, thousand grain weight were found to be the highest with T2 (100% RDF through inorganics + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1) which was comparable with T7 (75% RDF through inorganics + 25% RDF through FYM + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1) and all of them were found to be at their lowest with T4 (100% RDF through Farmyard Manure). Among different zinc application practices tried, T2 (100% RDF through inorganics + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1) resulted in the highest grain yield, straw yield and harvest index which was comparable with T7 (75% RDF through inorganics + 25% RDF through FYM + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1). While, all of them were found to be at their lowest with T4 (100% RDF through Farmyard Manure). In case of grain quality parameters, a positive influence of increased protein, zinc and iron contents were observed with T2 (100% RDF through inorganics + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1) which was at par with T7 (75% RDF through inorganics + 25% RDF through FYM + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1). On the other hand, carbohydrate and calcium contents of the grain were positively influenced by all the zinc application practices involving inorganic source of fertilizers. However, the zinc application practices combined with organic sources of nutrients viz., T4 (100% RDF through Farmyard Manure), T5 (100% RDF through FYM + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1) and T6 (100% RDF through FYM + Foliar nutrition of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% twice at flowering) failed to improve all quality parameters. The highest uptake of N, K and Zn was recorded with T2 (100% RDF through inorganics + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1) and T7 (75% RDF through inorganics + 25% RDF through FYM + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1) with no significant disparity between them, while, the P uptake was higher with T1 (100% RDF through inorganics). However, the uptake of all the nutrients was the lowest with T4 (100% RDF through Farmyard Manure). The highest post harvest nutrient status of soil available N, P and K was recorded with T1 (100% RDF through inorganics) and T3 (100% RDF through inorganics + Foliar nutrition of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% twice at flowering) with no significant difference between them. The soil available Zn was higher with T7 xvii (75% RDF through inorganics + 25% RDF through FYM + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1) and T2 (100% RDF through inorganics + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1). However, the soil availability of all the nutrients was the lowest with T4 (100% RDF through Farmyard Manure). Economic analysis revealed that the highest gross returns and net returns were recorded under T2 (100% RDF through inorganics + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1) which was comparable with T7 (75% RDF through inorganics + 25% RDF through FYM + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1). However, the lowest values were obtained with T4 (100% RDF through Farmyard Manure). The highest B:C ratio was registered with T2 (100% RDF through inorganics + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1) which was significantly superior over remaining other treatments. The next best treatment was T7 (75% RDF through inorganics + 25% RDF through FYM + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1). The B:C ratio was recorded lowest with T4 (100% RDF through Farmyard Manure). In conclusion, it can be inferred from the investigation that though the performance of finger millet interms of productivity and profitability was found to be higher with 100% RDF through inorganics + soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1, keeping in view of sustainable soil fertility, application of 75% RDF through inorganics + 25% RDF through FYM + soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 seems to be promising, since the discount in yield and economic returns was also not so large and have performed nearly equal with that of 100% RDF through inorganics + soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1. The present investigation revealed that 75% RDF through inorganics + 25% RDF through FYM + soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 is the best option for obtaining higher productivity, profitability and quality of finger millet for Southern Agro climatic zone of Andhra Pradesh.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    OPTIMIZATION OF PRODUCTION FACTORS FOR CLIMATE RESILIENCE IN RAINFED GROUNDNUT (Arachis hypogaea L.)
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) SHRUTHI, B; REDDI RAMU, Y
    A field experiment was conducted at S.V. Agricultural College Farm, Tirupati, campus of Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University of Andhra Pradesh, during kharif, 2017, to identify the priority production inputs in groundnut under resource constraint situations. The present investigation was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications. There were eight treatments viz., Control (Only improved cultivar without any input) (T1), Full package of practices (FPP) (T2), Full package of practices excluding in-situ soil moisture conservation (T3), Full package of practices excluding protective irrigation (T4), Full package of practices excluding nutrient management (T5), Full package of practices excluding weed management (T6), Full package of practices excluding pest management (T7) and Full package of practices excluding improved variety (T8). Various production factors under resource constraint situations exerted a significant effect on the growth parameters, yield attributes, yield, economic returns and nutrient uptake of groundnut as well as the weed density and dry weight of weeds, pest score and post-harvest soil fertility status. xvii At 25 DAS, the highest stature of growth parameters viz., plant height, LAI, dry matter production and number of branches plant-1 were observed with T2 (Full package of practices ), which was however, comparable with T4 (excluding protective irrigation), T8 (excluding improved variety), T7 (excluding pest management) and T3 (excluding in-situ soil moisture conservation). All the above mentioned growth parameters at 25 DAS were found to be at their lowest with control (T1). At 50, 75 DAS and at harvest, full package of practices (T2) recorded the inflated stature of above growth parameters, which was however, comparable with T4, T8 and T7 where protective irrigation, improved variety and pest management were excluded from FPP. The plant height, LAI and dry matter recorded with excluding nutrient management (T5), weed management (T6) and in-situ moisture conservation (T3) were the next best treatments and were comparable among themselves and significantly superior over growing improved variety Dharani without input (control). The deflated stature of above growth parameters at all the stages of observations were recorded with control (T1). Significantly the highest number of filled pods plant-1, hundred pod and kernel weight as well as shelling percentage were recorded with full package of practices (T2), which was on par with excluding protective irrigation (T4), improved variety (T8) and pest management (T7) from full package of practices. Among the individual production factors excluding of nutrients application from full package of practices caused substantial reduction in yield attributes followed by excluding of weed management and non practicing of in-situ soil moisture conservation. The control (T1) recorded the lowest stature of above said yield attributes due to poor crop growth. Adoption of full package of practices (T2), recorded the highest pod (2315 kg ha-1), kernel (1769 kg ha-1) and haulm yields (3302 kg ha-1) in groundnut which, was however, comparable with adoption of full package of practices excluding either protective irrigation (T4) or improved variety (T8) or pest management (T7). Significantly the highest pod yield reduction (-35%) was observed when nutrients were not applied to groundnut crop and excluding of weed management (-27%) followed by non practicing of in-situ moisture conservation (-21%). The lowest yield was recorded with growing of improved cultivar without any input (control). The highest kernel and oil yield in groundnut was recorded with full package of practices, which was however, comparable with full package of practices avoiding protective irrigation (T4). Among the different resource constraint situations, the higher reduction in kernel yield and oil yield was observed when nutrient management (T5), weed management (T6) followed by in-situ soil moisture conservation practices (T3) are excluded from full package of practices. Control (only improved cultivar without any input) recorded significantly the lowest kernel yield (569 kg ha-1) and oil yield (245 kg ha-1) in groundnut. xviii The highest nutrient (N, P and K) uptake of groundnut was registered with full package of practices (T2), while it was the lowest with the control (T1) and excluding nutrient management from full package of practices (T5). The post-harvest available nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium status of the soil failed to touch the level of significance among the treatments where nutrients were applied (T2, T4, T7, T3, and T6) except in the treatments involving excluding of nutrient management from the full package of practices (T5) and control, which were comparable among with each other and significantly lower than the rest of the treatments tried. The lowest density and dry weight of total weeds at 25 DAS and at harvest were recorded with full package of practices, which was however, comparable with excluding pest management (T7), protective irrigation (T4), nutrient management (T5), in-situ soil moisture conservation (T3) and improved variety (T8) from the full package of practices, where weed management was done in all the above treatments. Significantly the highest density and dry weight of total weeds at 25 DAS and at harvest were recorded with excluding weed control from full package of practices (T6), which was comparable with growing of improved cultivar (Dharani) without any input (control). Full package of practices (T2) recorded significantly the lowest leaf miner incidence both at 5 and 10 days after spraying, which was however, comparable with treatments involving pest management i.e., T4, T8, T6, T3 and T5. The leaf miner incidence recorded with non-adoption of pest management (T7) and control (T1) was comparable among themselves and significantly superior over rest of the treatments tried. However, the per cent of leaf miner incidence doesn’t touched the level of significance before taking up of pest management practices. The higher gross returns (` 95902) and net return (` 56942) as well as benefit-cost ratio (2.46) were realized with full package of practices (T2), while the lowest values of gross returns, net returns and benefit-cost ratio were registered with control (only improved cultivar without any input). In conclusion, the study revealed that following full package of practices resulted in the highest pod yield and monetary returns in groundnut. Among the individual production factors, nutrient management and weed control followed by in-situ soil moisture conservation are the priority production factors for enhancing the productivity, quality and economic returns of rainfed groundnut under prevailed favourable weather condition.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    OPTIMIZATION OF SOWING WINDOW FOR SUMMER FODDER SORGHUM [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] CULTIVARS
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) SAIMAHESWARI, KADIRI; PRATHIMA, T
    A field experiment entitled “Optimization of Sowing Window for Summer Fodder Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] Cultivars” was carried out during summer, 2018 on sandy loam soils of dryland farm of S.V. Agricultural College, Tirupati, Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University. The treatments consisted of four times of sowing viz., I FN of January, II FN of January, I FN of February and II FN of February and three fodder sorghum varieties viz., CSV 21 F, CSV 30 F and CSV 32 F. The temperature maximum and minimum were increased by 4.8 and 5.3oC respectively during the crop growth period of fodder sorghum when sowing was extended from I FN of January to II FN of February. The morning relative humidity was reduced by 5 per cent in corresponding period. Daily evaporation was increased from 5.6 to 6.8 mm day-1 and the duration of sunshine hours was reduced from 8.5 hours day-1 to 7.9 hours day-1 during the crop growth period when the sowing of the crop was extended from I FN of January to II FN of February. Significant increase or decrease was not observed in other weather parameters. The experimental results indicated that, sowing of fodder sorghum during I FN of January resulted in higher plant height followed by II FN of January with significant disparity between them. The shortest plants were noticed when fodder sorghum sown during II FN of February. The tallest plants were produced with CSV 32 F variety of fodder sorghum which was xv superior to all other varieties tested. The Shortest statured plants were observed with CSV 21 F. The interaction effect between varieties and times of sowing was found to be non significant. Irrespective of the treatments, leaf area of fodder sorghum progressively increased with age of crop upto harvest. Variation in leaf area was significant due to times of sowing and varieties. The interaction effect found to be significant at harvest. Among the times of sowing, the highest leaf area was observed with the crop sown during I FN of January, followed by II FN of January. The lowest leaf area was recorded with the crop sown during II FN of February. The highest leaf area was noticed with the variety CSV 32 F followed by CSV 30 F, and both the varieties were significantly superior with CSV 21 F, which has produced the lowest leaf area. Times of sowing and varieties significantly influenced the dry matter production. The interaction effect had significant influence on dry matter production at 20 DAS. The highest dry matter production was recorded when crop was sown during I FN of January. The lowest dry matter production of fodder sorghum was observed with the crop sown during II FN of February. Among the fodder sorghum varieties tried, the highest dry matter production was recorded with CSV 32 F which was superior over rest of the varieties. The variety CSV 21 F recorded the lowest dry matter production. The number of tillers plant-1 in fodder sorghum significantly varied with adopted times of sowing. The crop sown during I FN of January recorded significantly higher number of tillers plant-1. Among different fodder sorghum varieties tested, CSV 32 F has recorded the higher number of tillers plant-1 where as minimum number of tillers were observed in CSV 21 F. Stem diameter progressively increased from sowing to harvest. Stem diameter of fodder sorghum varied significantly due to times of sowings and varieties, while the interaction effect was found to be non significant. The highest stem diameter was recorded when crop was sown during I FN of January, which was significantly superior to other times of sowing. The lowest stem diameter was recorded with II FN of February sown crop. Among fodder sorghum varieties tested, the maximum stem diameter was observed with CSV 32 F where as the lowest was recorded with CSV 21 F. Leaf stem ratio of fodder sorghum showed decreasing trend with advance in age of the crop upto harvest. Leaf stem ratio of fodder sorghum varied significantly due to times of sowings and varieties, while the interaction effect was found to be non significant. The highest leaf stem ratio was recorded when crop was sown during I FN of January, which was significantly superior to other times of sowing. The lowest leaf stem ratio was recorded with II FN February sown crop. The highest leaf stem ratio was recorded in CSV 32 F whereas the lowest leaf stem ratio was observed in CSV 21 F. xvi Green fodder and dry yields of fodder sorghum were significantly influenced by times of sowing and varieties but not by their interaction. The crop sown during I FN of January recorded the highest fodder yield which was comparable with II f FN of January, while the lowest fodder yield was recorded when crop sown during II FN of February. The highest fodder yield was recorded by CSV 32 F and the lowest fodder yield was recorded with CSV 21 F. The crude protein content was progressively decreased with the extended time of sowing. The crop sown during I FN of January, recorded highest crude protein content of fodder sorghum. The lowest crude protein content was noticed in the crop sown during II FN of February. Among various varieties tested, CSV 32 F recorded the highest crude protein content whereas the lowest crude protein content was recorded by CSV 21 F. The maximum crude fibre content was registered with the crop sown during II FN of February which was significantly superior to rest of the sowings. The higher crude fibre content was noticed with CSV 21 F. The lowest crude fibre content was observed in CSV 32 F variety. The crop sown during I FN of January recorded significantly higher ash content. The least ash content was noticed with the crop sown during II FN of February. Among the different varieties tested, the highest ash content was observed with CSV 32 F, while the lowest ash content was recorded with CSV 21 F. Among the four times of sowing, different meteorological indices GDD, HTU, PTU, TUE and RUE varied across the different growth stages. Early sowing (I FN of January) had favorable agro-climatic conditions particularly temperature, day length and sunshine hours interms of required accumulation of GDD, PTU and HTU from sowing to harvest compared to other dates of sowing. Total requirement of accumulated GDD, HTU and PTU showed increasing trend with extension of sowing time from I FN of January to II FN of February. The CSV 32 F variety accumulated maximum GDD from sowing to until harvest. This early planting of crop resulted in higher fodder yield compared to delayed sowings because of higher thermal use efficiency and radiation use efficiencies throughout the growing period. The highest gross returns, net returns and benefit cost ratio were obtained when crop sown during I FN of January which was significantly superior to other times of sowing. Among tested varieties CSV 32 F variety recorded significantly higher returns whereas the lowest net returns and benefit cost ratio were obtained from CSV 21 F variety. The results in a nut shell revealed that higher green fodder yield of summer fodder sorghum as well as monetary returns could be realized with cultivation of the CSV 32 F fodder sorghum variety with sowing window of I FN of January in the present domain of study.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    PLANT WATER EXTRACTS FOR WEED MANAGEMENT IN GROUNDNUT ( Arachis hypogaea L.)
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) NARAYANA, SAI GEETHIKA; SUBRAMANYAM, D
    A field experiment was conducted on sandy loam soils of S.V. Agricultural College Farm, Tirupati campus of Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University of Andhra Pradesh, during rabi, 2017-18, to know the effect of different plant water extracts on weed management in rabi groundnut. The present investigation was laid out in a randomized block design with ten treatments and replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of ten weed management practices viz., plant water extracts of sorghum (W1), sunflower (W2), rice straw (W3), parthenium (W4), lantana (W5) and purple nutsedge (W6) each applied at 15 l ha-1 twice at 15 and 30 DAS, paddy straw mulch 5 t ha-1 (W7), pre-emergence application of pendimethalin 1 kg ha-1 supplemented with hand weeding at 30 DAS (W8), postemergence application of imazethapyr 75 g ha-1 (W9) and unweeded check (W10). The test variety used in the experiment was Dharani (TCGS-1043). The weed flora associated with rabi groundnut belongs to nine taxonomic families. The predominant weed species observed in the experimental field were Cyperus rotundus L. (45%), Digitaria sanguinalis (L.) Scop. (15%), Boerhavia erecta L. (7%), Borreria hispida (L.) K. Schum. (7%) and Digera arvensis L. (6%). Among the weed management practices, pre-emergence application of pendimethalin 1 kg ha-1 supplemented with one hand weeding at 30 DAS (W8) recorded significantly lesser density and dry weight of weeds with higher weed control efficiency which inturn enhanced all the growth and yield components and yield of rabi groundnut, besides realizing higher net returns and benefit-cost ratio. The lowest density and dry weight of all categories of weeds and total weeds as well as lower nutrient uptake by weeds with higher weed control efficiency were recorded with paddy straw mulch 5 t ha-1 (W7) followed by sunflower water extract spray 15 l ha-1 twice at 15 and 30 DAS (W2), among the organic weed management practices. All the plant water extracts were not effective as that of synthetic herbicides. Parthenium (W4) and purple nutsedge (W6) water extracts recorded xvi significantly higher density and dry weight of weeds with lower weed control efficiency, among the plant water extracts tested. Application of paddy straw mulch 5 t ha-1 (W7) resulted in the highest stature of growth parameters viz., plant height, leaf area index, dry matter production, number of branches plant-1, number of effective rhizobium nodules plant-1and yield componets viz., number of filled pods plant-1, 100-pod and kernel weight. Sunflower water extract spray 15 l ha-1 twice at 15 and 30 DAS (W2) was the next best organic weed management practice in recording higher values of above said growth and yield parameters. Parthenium water extract spray 15 l ha-1 twice at 15 and 30 DAS (W4) resulted in lowest values of above said growth and yield parameters of groundnut. All the plant water extracts did not showed any phytotoxicity on groundnut. The highest pod, kernel, oil and haulm yields of groundnut was obtained with paddy straw mulch 5 t ha-1 (W7) followed by sunflower water extract spray 15 l ha-1 twice at 15 and 30 DAS (W2) . The highest harvest index and the lowest weed index was computed with the former weed management practice. Parthenium (W4) and purple nutsedge (W6) water extracts recorded significantly lesser yields than rest of organic weed management practices. The highest nutrient uptake by crop and the lowest nutrient uptake by weeds were estimated with paddy straw mulch 5 t ha-1 (W7) followed by sorghum water extract spray 15 l ha-1 twice at 15 and 30 DAS (W1), among the organic weed management practices. The major nutrients depleted by weeds due to heavy weed infestation in unweeded check (W10) was estimated to be 24.4, 13.0 and 27.6 kg ha-1 of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, respectively. Soil microbial load (bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes) was significantly higher with paddy straw mulch 5 t ha-1 (W7) followed by sunflower water extract spray 15 l ha-1 twice at 15 and 30 DAS (W2) and at their lowest with post-emergence application of of imazethapyr 75 g ha-1 (W9). The highest gross and net returns were realized with paddy straw mulch 5 t ha-1 (W7), whereas, benefit-cost ratio was the highest with sunflower water extract spray 15 l ha-1 twice at 15 and 30 DAS (W2), among the organic weed management practices. The lowest values of the above said economic parameters were computed with parthenium water extract spray 15 l ha-1 twice at 15 and 30 DAS (W4) which was at par with unweeded check (W10). Thus, the present study has revealed that paddy straw mulch 5 t ha-1 (W7) or sunflower water extract spray 15 l ha-1 twice at 15 and 30 DAS (W2) was considered as best weed management practice for enhancing the productivity, profitability and sustainability, besides effective control of weeds in rabi groundnut.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    OPTIMISING THE ORGANIC, INORGANIC AND BIOFERTILISER NEEDS FOR SUSTAINED PRODUCTIVITY OF MAIZE (Zea mays L.)
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) NAYAK, PRAYASI; PRATAP KUMAR REDDY, A
    A field experiment entitled “Optimising the organic, inorganic and biofertiliser needs for sustained productivity of maize (Zea mays L.)” was carried out during kharif, 2017 on sandy loam soils of wetland farm of S.V. Agricultural College, Tirupati campus of Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with seven treatments and replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of seven nutrient management practices viz., 100% RDF (T1), FYM @ 10 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T2), Vermicompost @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T3), 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 (T4), 50% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1 t ha-1 (T5), 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6), 50% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T7). Maize hybrid Kaveri-55 was tested in the present experiment. Various nutrient sources significantly influenced the growth parameters, yield attributes, yield, economic returns and nutrient uptake of maize as well as post-harvest soil available nutrient and microbial status. At 25 DAS the influence of organic, inorganic and biofertiliser combinations on crop growth were found to be non significant. At 50, 75 DAS and at harvest higher stature of growth parameters viz., plant height, xv LAI and dry matter production were recorded with 100% RDF (T1), which was significantly superior to the remaining treatments. Among the various combined sources of nutrients tried, supply of 50% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T7) recorded maximum growth stature which was statistically on par with 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6) and these two treatments are significantly superior to rest of the treatments. Growth characters were found to be at their lowest with FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1+ PSB @ 5 kg ha-1(T2). Regarding the yield attributes viz., number of cobs plant-1, cob length and girth, number of kernel rows cob-1, number of kernels row-1, cob weight, kernel weight cob-1, hundred kernel weight were higher with application of 100% recommended dose of nutrient through fertilizers (T1). Among the various combined sources, application of 50% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T7) resulted in improved stature of yield attributes, which was comparable with 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6). Poor supply of nutrients with FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T2) resulted in the deflated stature of all the above yield attributes. Supply of 100% RDF (T1) recorded the maximum kernel and stover yield in maize which was distinctly superior over rest of the treatments. Among the various combined sources of organic, inorganic and biofertilisers, 50% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T7) resulted higher kernel and stover yield, which was however in parity with 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6). The lowest yield of both kernel as well as stover were recorded with FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T2). Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake were highest with 100% recommended dose of nutrients through fertilizers (T1). The next higher uptake was recorded with 50% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T7) and it was on par with 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6). The lowest uptake of nutrient was registered with FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1(T2). The higher post-harvest soil available nitrogen and potassium status was recorded with 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6) which was significantly superior over rest of the treatments. The next best treatment was supply of 50% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T7) and it was comparable with 100% RDF (T1). Post-harvest soil available phosphorus status was noticed to be higher with 100% RDF (T1) which was distinctly xvi superior over rest of the treatments. The next best status was recorded with 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T7) and it was comparable with 50% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T7). The post-harvest soil nutrient status was lower with Vermicompost @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T3) compared to rest of the treatments. The maximum post-harvest soil microbial status was registered with 50% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T7) which was however comparable with 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6). The next higher microbial count was observed in FYM @ 10 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 +PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T2) and Vermicompost @ 2t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T3) which were comparable between themselves. The postharvest soil microbial status was lower with 100% RDF (T1). The highest gross returns, net returns and benefit cost ratio were realized with 100% RDF (T1) which was distinctly superior over rest of the treatments. Among the various combinations of organic, inorganic and biofertilisers tried, application of 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6) recorded higher gross returns, net returns and benefit cost ratio. The lowest economic returns were obtained with Vermicompost @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T3). In conclusion, the present study revealed that higher productivity of maize as well as economic returns could be realized with 100% recommended dose of nutrients through fertilizers i.e. 180-60-50 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1. Among the various integrated nutrient management practices, application of 50% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 proved to be the most promising and feasible approach for higher yield where as 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6) was economically viable, along with maintenance of soil biological activity and fertility for the sustenance of soil ecology. Hence, adoption of a balanced nutrient management approach will safeguard the desire for higher crop productivity with economic returns. Long run adoption of combined use of fertilizers and organics expected to match and even excel the sole fertilizer based production strategy.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    INTEGRATED NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT IN PEARLMILLET [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. emend. Stuntz]
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) POOJA PATIL; NAGAMANI, C
    A field experiment entitled “Integrated Nutrient Management in Pearlmillet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. emend. Stuntz]” was conducted during kharif, 2017 on sandy clay loam soils of dryland farm of S. V. Agricultural College, Tirupati campus of Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University. The present experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with ten treatments and replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of ten integrated nutrient management practices viz., Recommended Dose of Fertilizer (RDF): 60-30-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (T1), RDF + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T2), 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 (T3), 75% RDF + Poultry Manure (PM) @ 2 t ha-1 (T4), 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T5), 75% RDF + PM @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6), 50% RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 (T7), 50% RDF + PM @ 3 t ha-1 (T8, ) 50% RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T9) and 50% RDF + PM @ 3 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T10). The test variety used for the experiment was Dhanshakti. At all the stages of observation, except at 20 DAS higher stature of growth parameters viz., plant height, LAI, dry matter production and number of tillers m-2 were recorded with 75% RDF + PM @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6) which was however, comparable with that of 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 xv kg ha-1 (T5). Growth parameters were found to be at their lowest with 50% RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 (T7). At 20 DAS, the highest growth parameters were observed with RDF + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T2), while the lowest was with that of 50% RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 (T7). The highest values of yield attributes viz., number of earheads m-2, earhead length, grain weight earhead-1 and test weight were with application of 75% RDF + PM @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6) which maintained parity with that of 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T5). The lowest values of the above said yield attributes were with 50% RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 (T7). The highest grain yield, stover yield and harvest index of pearlmillet were recorded with 75% RDF + PM @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6), which was comparable with that of 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T5). Application of 50% RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 (T7) resulted in the lowest grain and stover yield including harvest index. Among the different integrated nutrient management practices tried, the application of 75% RDF + PM @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6) resulted in the highest protein and carbohydrate content which was on par with that of 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T5). The lowest protein and carbohydrate content was recorded with 50% RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 (T7). The highest nutrient uptake (N,P,K) by pearlmillet was recorded with 75% RDF + PM @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6), which was on par with that of 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T5), while the lowest nutrient uptake was recorded with 50% RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 (T7). Application of 75% RDF + PM @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6) resulted in the highest post-harvest soil fertility status (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) followed by that with 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T5). The lowest post-harvest soil fertility status was resulted with 50% RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 (T7). The highest post-harvest soil organic carbon was recorded with 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T5) which was significantly superior to that with 75% RDF + PM @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6). The lowest post-harvest soil organic carbon status was recorded with 50% RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T9). The higher post-harvest soil microbial load was recorded with the application of 75% RDF + PM @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB xvi @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6) which was however, comparable with that of 75% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T5) and the lowest microbial load was recorded with 100% RDF (T1). Among the various integrated nutrient management practices tried, the highest gross and net returns were obtained with the application of 75% RDF + PM @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6). The benefit-cost ratio was highest with the application of RDF + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T2) followed by 75% RDF + PM @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 (T6). The lowest economic returns were realized with the application of 50% RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 (T7). In conclusion, the present study indicated that combined application of 75% RDF + PM (Poultry Manure) @ 2 t ha-1 + Azospirillum @ 5 kg ha-1 + PSB @ 5 kg ha-1 to pearlmillet is the most efficient integrated nutrient management practice for the better growth, yield, quality, economics and soil fertility status. Hence it is proposed to be an economically feasible and ecologically sustainable nutrient management practice for the kharif pearlmillet.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    AGRONOMIC APPROACH FOR FORTIFICATION OF SWEET CORN (Zea mays L.) WITH ZINC AND IRON
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) SHAKOOR KARRIMI, ABDUL; PRATAP KUMAR REDDY, A
    A field experiment entitled “AGRONOMIC APPROACH FOR FORTIFICATION OF SWEET CORN (Zea mays L.) WITH ZINC AND IRON” was carried out during kharif, 2017 on sandy loam soils of wetland farm of S.V. Agricultural College, Tirupati campus of Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with ten treatments and replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of RDF alone (180-60-50 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1) (T1), RDF + soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 (Basal) (T2), RDF + soil application of FeSO4 @ 25 kg ha-1 (Basal) (T3), RDF + soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 + FeSO4 @ 25 kg ha-1) (Basal) (T4), RDF + 0.5% foliar application of ZnSO4 at booting (T5), RDF + 0.5% foliar application of ZnSO4 at booting and silking (T6), RDF + 0.2% foliar application of FeSO4 at booting (T7), RDF + 0.2% foliar application of FeSO4 at booting and silking (T8), RDF + 0.5% foliar application of ZnSO4 + 0.2% FeSO4 at booting (T9), RDF + 0.5% foliar application of ZnSO4 + 0.2% FeSO4 at booting and silking (T10). The sweet corn variety (sugar – 75) was tested in the present experiment. Growth parameters like plant height, leaf area index and dry matter production and yield parameters like number of cobs plant-1, cob length, cob girth, number of seed rows cob-1, number of seeds row-1 and cob weight were higher with 0.5% foliar application of ZnSO4 + 0.2% FeSO4 at booting and silking along with RDF (N, P2O5 and K2O 180:60:50 kg ha-1) (T10). xvi Significantly higher green cob and green fodder yield of sweet corn were recorded with foliar application of 0.5% ZnSO4 + 0.2% FeSO4 at booting and silking along with RDF (T10) compared to rest of the treatments. Higher gross and net returns as well as benefit-cost ratio were obtained with foliar application of 0.5% ZnSO4 + 0.2% FeSO4 at booting and silking with along with RDF (T10). Application of recommended dose of fertilizer (N, P2O5 and K2O 180:60:50 kg ha-1) (T1), recorded significantly higher protein content over the rest of treatment tried. Higher zinc and iron content in the seed was registered with foliar application 0.5% of ZnSO4 + 0.2% FeSO4 at booting and silking along with RDF (N, P2O5 and K2O 180:60:50 kg ha-1) (T10). Soil application of FeSO4 @ 25 kg ha-1 + RDF (N, P2O5 and K2O 180:60:50 kg ha-1) (T3), recorded the highest post-harvest soil available nitrogen. Higher post- harvest soil available phosphorus and potassium status were recorded with Soil application of FeSO4 @ 25 kg ha-1 soil applications of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 + RDF (N, P2O5 and K2O 180:60:50 kg ha-1) (T2). Post-harvest soil available zinc was maximum with soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 + FeSO4 @ 25 kg ha-1 along with RDF (N, P2O5 and K2O 180:60:50 kg ha-1) (T4). The higher Post-harvest soil available iron was registered with of soil application of FeSO4 @ 25 kg ha-1 along with RDF (T3), which was on par with 0.2% foliar application of FeSO4 at booting and silking along with RDF (T8) and 0.2% foliar application of FeSO4 at booting along with RDF (T8). In conclusion, the present study revealed that productivity and quality of sweet corn was increased with foliar application of 0.5% ZnSO4 + 0.2% FeSO4 at booting and silking along with RDF (N, P2O5 and K2O 180:60:50 kg ha-1). The same nutritional management strategy also realized maximum economic returns, apart from enhanced quality.