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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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2015 - 201849
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Subject: Soil Science and Agriculture Chemistry × End date: 2018 × Start date: 2015 × Type: Thesis × Thesis Type: M.Sc ×
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    ASSESSMENT OF GROUNDWATER QUALITY FOR IRRIGATION IN EAST GODAVARI DISTRICT OF ANDHRA PRADESH
    (Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2018) GIRI SHASHANK REDDY, T; MOHANA RAO, P
    Present study entitled, “Assessment of groundwater quality for irrigation in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh” was under taken in East Godavari district. A total number of 632 groundwater samples from 59 mandals of East Godavari district were collected during pre and post-monsoon periods. Water reaction (pH) in irrigation waters of study area varied from 6.4-8.1 and 6.5-7.9, EC ranged from 0.2-49.0 dS m-1 and 0.1-23.0 dS m-1, SAR ranged from 0.144.2 and 0.1-25.1, RSC ranged from -100 to 14.0 me L-1 and -111.4 to 10.0 me L-1 during pre and post-monsoon seasons, respectively. Dominant cation was Na+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+> K+. Likewise, in case of anions, Cl- > HCO3- > SO42- > B during pre-monsoon season. Similarly, during the post-monsoon season water dominant cation was Na+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ > K+ type waters and Cl- > HCO3- > SO42- > CO32- type water in respect of anions. In both pre and post-monsoon seasons in all mandals of East Godavari district majority of the underground water samples had pH between 6.5 to 7.5 and majority of the samples recorded under neutral class. Based on EC, maximum number of underground water samples had EC between 0.75 to 2.25 dS m-1 (C3) i.e. high salinity. Based on SAR classification, during the pre-monsoon season 93.7, 4.1, 1.6 and 0.6 per cent samples recorded under S1, S2, S3, and S4 classes, whereas, in post-monsoon season 94.6, 4.4, 0.9 and 0.0 per cent samples recorded under S1, S2, S3, and S4 classes, respectively. In both pre and post-monsoon seasons majority of the samples were found under S1 class i.e. low sodium hazard. Based on RSC classification, during the premonsoon season 83.2, 4.7 and 12.0 per cent samples recorded under A1, A2 and A3 classes, whereas in post-monsoon season 77.8, 8.5 and 13.6 per cent samples recorded under A1, A2 and A3 classes, respectively. In both pre and post-monsoon seasons majority of the samples found under A1 class i.e. RSC<1.25 me L-1. xviii As per CSSRI classification 62.3, 20.9, 4.1, 1.3, 4.1, 4.1 and 3.2 per cent of water samples in East Godavari district during pre-monsoon season were classified under good, marginally saline, saline, high SAR saline, marginally alkali, alkali and high alkali categories, respectively. Likewise, during the post-monsoon 73.1, 11.7, 1.9, 0.9, 3.5, 5.4 and 3.5 per cent of waters were classified under good, marginally saline, saline, high SAR saline, marginally alkali, alkali and high alkali categories, respectively. In both pre and post-monsoon seasons majority of the samples were recorded under good category. As per USSL (1954) classification 0.9, 17.7, 55.4, 19.6, 3.8, 1.9 and 0.6 per cent of waters in East Godavari district during pre-monsoon season were classified under C1-S1, C2-S1, C3-S1, C4-S1, C4-S2, C4-S3 and C4-S4 categories, respectively. Likewise, during the post-monsoon 2.2, 27.2, 54.4, 1.6, 11.1, 2.2 and 1.3 per cent of water samples were classified under C1-S1, C2-S1, C3-S1, C3-S2, C4-S1, C4S2 and C4-S3 categories, respectively. In both pre and post-monsoon seasons majority of the samples recorded under C3-S1 category i.e. high salinity-low sodium hazard class. The yield of rice crop was negatively correlated with pH, but not at significant level whereas, it was negatively correlated with EC, Na+, and Cl- at one per cent level of significance, Boron and Ca+2-, were positively correlated at one percent level of significance and HCO3-, K+ and SO4-2 were positively correlated but not at signiciant level. It is observed that indiscriminate use of fertilizers for agriculture and sea water intrusions were contributed to higher concentration of some ions like Na+ and Mg2+ in irrigation water. Since majority of the groundwaters indicated high salinity and low sodium hazard ultimately result in reduced crop yield and lowering of net profit. Therefore, salt tolerant crops may be grown in salt affected areas
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    EVALUATING SITE SPECIFIC AND REAL TIME NITROGEN MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR HYBRID MAIZE (Zea mays L.)
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) SRUTHI, N; BALAGURAVAIAH, D
    A field experiment was conducted during kharif season, 2017 on sandy loam soils of Agriculture College Farm, Mahanandi, Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Andhra Pradesh entitled “Evaluating Site Specific and Real Time Nitrogen Management Strategies for Hybrid Maize (Zea mays L.)”. The investigation was carried out to study, evaluate and identify suitable site specific and real time nitrogen management options so as to synchronize N application with that of crop N demand for achieving higher yield and N use efficiency in hybrid maize. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with eight treatments replicated thrice. The treatments include recommended fertilizer dose (T1), soil test based fertilizer application (T2), LCC based approach i.e., apply N25 if LCC value < 5 (T3), SPAD chlorophyll meter based approach i.e., apply N25 if SPAD value < 50 (T4) and Green Seeker based approach i.e., based on NDVI (T5), Farmer Fertilizer Practice (T6), STCR based targeted approach with a target yield of 8 t ha-1 approach (T7) and Absolute Control (T8). xvii The experimental field was slightly alkaline in reaction, non saline in nature and low in organic carbon, low in available nitrogen, low in available phosphorus and high in potassium. The N received by the crop under different treatments ranged from 180 to 320 kg ha-1 in 3 to 5 splits based on the treatment demand. With varying nitrogen levels in different treatments, performance was evaluated in terms of maize grain yield, nutrient uptake, N use efficiency and B:C ratio. Leaf samples were analyzed for nutrient composition (N, P, K and micronutrients) at every 10 days intervals up to tasseling stage, grain and stover yield at harvest and nutrient uptake was computed. Absolute control received no nitrogen and the highest N dose of 320 kg ha-1 was received in T6 (3 splits). The highest number of split application of N took place in T3, T4 and T5 (5 splits). LCC, SPAD and Green Seeker values increased gradually from initial knee high stage to tasseling stage of the crop. Nitrogen content in leaves also increased up to tasseling and was significantly influenced by different N management options. Highest N content of 3.92 % in leaves was observed in T5 at tasseling. The highest grain yield of maize (8072 kg ha-1) was recorded in T5 (Green Seeker based NDVI) which received 215 N kg ha-1 in 5 splits but was found on par with T3 (N25 if LCC value < 5), T4 (N25 if SPAD value < 50) which received 190 kg N ha-1 in 5 splits, T6 (FFP) that received 320 N kg ha-1 and T7 (STCR approach). Yield attributes that include cob weight, cob length, number of kernels per row and number of rows of kernels were higher in T5 which contributed to higher yield due to effective translocation of photosynthates from source to sink. Green Seeker, SPAD and LCC values correlated significantly and positively with N content in leaves and grain yield indicating that simple tools like Leaf Colour Chart, SPAD chlorophyll meter and Green Seeker can be effectively used for monitoring leaf N content in maize and there by rationalizing N application for achieving higher yields. Split application of Nitrogen based on crop demand is found useful instead of providing large quantity of nitrogen which is prone to various losses in the soil resulting in low N use efficiency and lower yields. The benefit - cost ratio was also high in T5 (3.32) followed by T3 (3.05) and T4 (2.92) in these dynamic N management approaches as compared to other practices evaluated in the study. It is clear from the study that the LCC, SPAD and Green seeker based nitrogen application can be recommended rather than blanket application of fertilizers. The timely and synchronized application of nitrogen as per requirement of crop at different stages of crop growth can give better yields rather than single application of fertilizers.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    EXTRACTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF NANOCLAY PARTICLES FROM BLACK AND RED SOILS OF ANDHRA PRADESH
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) NAGARAJU, K; MUNASWAMY, V
    The present investigation was carried out to study “Extraction and Characterization of Nanoclay Particles from Black and Red Soils of Andhra Pradesh”. For this, ten surface soil samples (0-20 cm) were collected in different districts of Andhra Pradesh covering black and red soils. The soil samples were analyzed in the laboratory for physical, physico-chemical, electro-chemical and Extraction and Characterization of Nanoclay Particles. Five samples of black soils were collected from Kurnool, East Godavari, West Godavari, Krishna and Guntur districts and five soil samples of red soils from Anantapur, Kadapa, Chittoor, Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam districts Andhra Pradesh. Clay particles from these soil samples were collected using the International Pipette method. The texture of black soils in the study area ranged from clay loam to sandy clay loam whereas the textures of red soils were sandy clay loam. The black soils in the study area were very acidic to very slightly alkaline (5.5 to 8.0) in reaction and the red soils were neutral to very slightly alkaline (6.51 to 7.9) in reaction. The black and red soils were non saline in nature. The cation exchange capacity of black soils in the study area were ranged from 32.3 to 42.1 cmol (p+) kg-1 soil with a mean value of 37.6 cmol (p+) kg-1 soil, while in red soils ranged ranged from 15.6 to 17.2 cmol (p+) kg-1 soil with a mean value of 16.32 cmol (p+) kg-1 soil. xix The present study emphasized on the differences in the spectrochemical and optical characteristics of clay particles collected from various regions of Andhra Pradesh which were categorized into black and red soils. From the DLS analysis, no significant differences were noticed in the size of the particles (ranged from 9.8 to 47.8 nm) as well as in their viscosity (range from 0.892-0.895) in both types. However, we have observed a wide range of difference in the zeta potential. The nanoclay particles extracted from black soil were proven to be less stable with a least zeta potential of +22.5 mV (Kambaladinne) and red soil with high stability and dispersion with a highest zeta potential of -69 mV (Utukur). In black and red soils of Andhra Pradesh, the peak corresponding at 242 nm revealed the presence of Kaolin mineral in the samples of Garikapadu, Lam farm, Maruteru, Vizianagaram, while the peak corresponding at 245 nm revealed the presence of Montmorillonite mineral in the samples of Anakapalli and Rajamahendravaram, while the peak corresponding at 250 nm revealed the presence of Vermiculite mineral in the samples of Kambaladinne, Rekulakunta, Utukur, Tirupati. Further, the FTIR data revealed presence of carboxylic acid salts (1523 cm-1), phosphate (900 cm-1) and silicon ions (1100 cm-1), thiols/ethers (684 cm- 1) were commonly present in all the samples irrespective of black and red soils but alkyl carbonates (1742 cm-1) were seen in all black soil samples and also exclusively in the red soil. The crystal structure analyses revealed that Kaolin was present exclusively in the clay samples of coastal regions (7 Å spacing) and rectorite characteristic to 25.0 Å spacing was seen in both types of soil but Montmorilonites (17.7 Å) was detected only in the samples of Anakapalli and Rajamahendravaram. Electron microscopy showed curved and matted flakes in black soils of Garikapadu, Kambaladinne and Maruteru while that of Lam farm, Rajamahendravaram, Garikapadu have shown a combination of spiny and flocculating flakes. The red soils of Anakapalli have shown curved and matted flakes while that of Rekulakunta, Vizianagaram, Tirupati and Utukur have shown a combination of spiny and flocculating flakes.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    SOIL FERTILITY STATUS OF PRUDENTIAL SUGAR FACTORY ZONE IN CHITTOOR DISTRICT OF ANDHRA PRADESH
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) KAVITHA, M; VAJANTHA, B
    The present investigation was carried out to study “Soil fertility status of Prudential sugar factory zone in different villages of various mandals in Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh”. For this, two hundred and seventy surface soil samples (0-20 cm) were collected in different locations of study area covering all types of soils. All the soil samples were analyzed in the laboratory for physical characteristics viz., soil texture, bulk density, particle density, porosity, water holding capacity, volume expansion, physico-chemical characteristics viz., pH, EC, organic carbon and chemical characteristics viz., available N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu. The study area was characterized by semi-arid monsoonic climate with distinct summer, winter and rainy season. The texture of the sugarcane growing soils varied from sandy loam to sandy clay loam whereas the colour of the soils varied from pale red to very dark gray (2.5 YR 7/2 to 10 YR 3/1). The physical constants viz., bulk density ranged from 1.07 to 1.63 Mg m-3, particle density varied from 2.0 to 2.77 Mg m-3, porosity ranged between 36.33 and 58.25 per cent, water holding capacity ranged from 29.76 to 53.91 per cent and volume expansion varied from 1.15 to 21.01 per cent, respectively. The soils were acidic to strongly alkaline in reaction, non-saline and low to medium in organic carbon content. All the samples were low to medium in available nitrogen and low to high in available phosphorus and potassium. Available calcium and magnesium were deficient to sufficient. Regarding xiv available sulphur about 5.19 per cent soils were defficient and 94.81 per cent soils were sufficient in available sulphur. Regarding micronutrient status, the soils were deficient to sufficient in DTPA extractable Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu. However, in the Prudential sugar factory zone about 54.44 per cent area (2943 ha) was deficient in DTPA extractable Fe, 52.96 per cent area (2863 ha) was deficient in DTPA extractable Mn, 27.78 per cent area (1502 ha) was deficient in DTPA extractable Zn and 4.44 per cent area (238 ha) was deficient in DTPA extractable Cu. Soil fertility maps were also prepared for Prudential sugar factory zone in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh for various parameters such as pH, EC, organic carbon, available macronutrients (N, P and K), secondary nutrients (Ca, Mg and S) and micronutrients (Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn) under GIS environment using ArcGIS. Simple correlation studies revealed that pH of the soil was positively and significantly correlated with available calcium while negatively and significantly correlated with DTPA extractable Fe and Mn. Available K2O in the soils positively and significantly correlated with electrical conductivity. A positive and significant correlation was observed between organic carbon and DTPA extractable Cu in the soil. In the Prudential sugar factory zone the major soil constraints identified are strongly alkaline reaction (643 ha), low organic carbon (3183 ha), nitrogen (5346 ha), K2O (2903 ha) and deficiency of Fe (2943 ha) and Mn (2543 ha).
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    STUDIES ON THE EFFECT OF URBAN SEWAGE WATER OF TIRUPATI ON THE SOIL PROPERTIES AND YIELD OF RICE
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) HARSHITHA, M; PRASANTHI, A
    The present investigation was carried out to know the effect of sewage water on soil properties, accumulation of heavy metals in rice straw and grains and yield of rice crop in Guravarajupalle village of Renigunta mandal in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. For this purpose, 100 surface soil samples, 12 sewage water samples, 100 each straw and grain samples of rice crop and yield data of the rice crop were collected. Soil samples were analyzed for physico-chemical and chemical properties and sewage water samples were analyzed for physico-chemical and chemical properties and straw and grains of rice crop were analysed for accumulation of heavy metals. The sewage water irrigated soils were slightly acidic to strongly alkaline in reaction, non saline to slightly saline in nature and low to high in organic carbon. The available nitrogen, P2O5 and K2O in sewage water irrigated soils were low to high. The available calcium, magnesium and sodium were found to be sufficient in sewage water irrigated soils. xix The micronutrients such as Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn were deficient to sufficient in sewage irrigated soils of Guravarajapalle village. The heavy metals such as Cr, Ni and Pb were within permissible limits except Cd, which exceeded the permissible limit. The heavy metals in the sewage waters irrigated soils were in the order of Pb > Ni > Cd > Cr in the study area. Sewage water samples were medium to high in pH, low to medium in EC, high in organic carbon, low to medium in N, low to medium in P, medium to high in K and low to medium in Ca, Mg and Na. However, the micronutrients such as Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu were within the permissible limits in sewage water samples. The heavy metals such as Cr, Ni and Pb were within permissible limits except Cd, which exceeded the permissible limit in the sewage water samples. The heavy metals in the sewage waters were in the order of Cd > Pb > Ni > Cr. The heavy metals such as Cr, Ni and Pb were within permissible limits except Cd, which exceeded the permissible limit in straw and grain samples of rice crop. The heavy metals in straw and grain samples were in the order of Pb > Ni > Cd > Cr. The yield of rice crop during kharif, 2016-17 was higher as compared to that of yield of rice crop during kharif, 2017-18. The higher yields during kharif, 2016-17 was due to irrigation of soils of Guravarajupalle village with sewage water. However, the low yields in kharif, 2017-18 was due to the fact that, more availability of irrigation water due to heavy rains which may be lead to lower yields due to dilution of the sewage water, which consequently decreased concentration of nutrients in sewage water causing less accumulation of nutrients in rice fields.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    RESPONSE OF BLACKGRAM TO ZINC AND IRON FERTILIZATION IN CALCAREOUS SOILS
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) VENKATA LAKSHMI SAI BHARGAVI, NERELLA; PRASAD, P.R.K.
    A pot culture experiment entitled “Response of blackgram to zinc and iron fertilization in calcareous soils” was conducted at Agricultural college, Bapatla, during 2017. The experimental soil was moderately alkaline in reaction, non-saline, high in calcium carbonate, low in organic carbon, available N, available P2O5, high in K2O, medium in sulphur, sufficient in Mn, Cu whereas, deficient in zinc and iron. The treatments comprised of T1 - control, T2 - 22 mg of ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil, T3 - 44 mg of ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil, T4 - Foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS*, T5 - Foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS*, T6 - T2 + T4, T7 - T2 + T5, T8 - T4 + T5, T9 - T2 + T4 + T5, T10 - T3 + T4, T11 - T3 + T5, T12 - T3 + T4 + T5. *Ferrous sulphate - FeSO4. 6H2O (0.5%) + 0.1% citric acid foliar spray and **zinc sulphate - ZnSO4.7H2O (0.2%) foliar spray. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized design (CRD) with 12 treatments replicated thrice. 3 kg of soil was potted in each pot (polthylene- lined) which received FYM @ 5 t ha-1 and fertilizers N, P2O5, K2O (25:50:25 kg ha-1) through urea, SSP and MoP. Zinc sulphate was applied either soil application or foliar spray and ferrous sulphate was applied according to the treatments. The findings of the experiment revealed that soil physical properties (bulk density, water holding capacity), physico - chemical properties (pH and EC) and chemical properties (organic carbon, N, P2O5, K2O, Fe, Cu, Mn) were not significantly influenced at 45 DAS and harvest stage of blackgram by the imposed treatments. However, soil application of zinc sulphate significantly influenced sulphur and zinc status of the soil at 45 DAS and harvest stage. The growth parameters such as plant height (45 DAS and harvest) and dry matter accumulation (45 DAS) were significantly influenced by zinc and iron fertilization. Significant improvement in plant height and dry matter accumulation were recorded with imposed treatments. T12 (44 mg ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil + foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS + foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS) was superior over control (T1). xx Chlorophyll content (a, b, a+b) at 45 DAS and harvest stage were registered maximum with 44 mg ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil + foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS + foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS (T12) and lowest was recorded with control (T1). Equal number of pods per plant were obtained in T12 (44 mg ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil + foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS + foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS) and T9 (22 mg ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil + foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS + foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS). Seed yield and haulm yield were recorded higher with T12 (44 mg ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil + foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS + foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS) and lowest was observed with T1 (control). Maximum harvest index was obtained with the treatment T9 (22 mg ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil + foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS + foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS) which was on par with T12 (44 mg ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil + foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS + foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS while minimum was obtained in control (T1). The P, K, Mn, Cu concentrations in plant were not significantly influenced by the treatments. However, N, S, Zn and Fe concentrations were significantly influenced. Significant increase in nutrient (N, P, K, Zn, Fe, Mn and Cu) uptake was recorded with 44 mg ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil + foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS + foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS (T12) when compared to control (T1). Maximum protein content in seed was observed with T12 (44 mg ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil + foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS + foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS) while minimum was observed in T1 (control). Molar ratios (P/Zn and P/Fe) were maximum in control (T1) and minimum in 44 mg ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil + foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS + foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS) (T12). AB-DTPA extractant was highly correlated with conventional methods of extractants for soil available phosphorus, potassium and micronutrients (Zn, Fe, Mn and cu). From the present investigation, it can be concluded that in calcareous soil, 44 mg ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil + foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS + foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS (T12) performed better in obtaining higher nutrient concentration and uptake, maximum yield and nutrient status in soil. These combined methods (44 mg ZnSO4.7H2O per kg soil + foliar spray of ferrous sulphate at 30 DAS + foliar spray of zinc sulphate at 40 DAS) were effective when compared to other methods for better crop growth.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    SUSTAINING SOIL HEALTH AND PRODUCTIVITY OF SWEET CORN THROUGH NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) SIVANAGARAJU, G; MADHU VANI, P
    A field experiment entitled “Sustaining soil health and productivity of sweet corn through nutrient management” was conducted at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla using sweet corn hybrid maize Mahy-301 as a test crop. The experiment comprising of 10 treatments viz., T1 : Absolute Control, T2 : 100% RDF, T3 : FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + LBF @ 1.5 L ha-1, T4 : Beejamrutham + Jeevamrutham, T5: 50% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1, T6 : 50% RDF + LBF @ 1.5 L ha-1, T7 : 50 % RDF + T4, T8 : 25% RDF + T4, T9 : 25% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + T4, T10 : 25% RDF +LBF @ 1.5 L ha-1 + T4 laid out in completely randomized block design and were replicated thrice. The experimental soil was non saline and neutral in soil reaction, medium in organic carbon (0.51%), low in available nitrogen (156 kg ha-1), high in available P2O5 (62 kg ha-1) and K2O (1123 kg ha-1) and sufficient in sulphur and micro nutrients. The soil was clayey in texture with a bulk density and water holding capacity of 1.42 Mg m-3 and 52.34 per cent, respectively. FYM and liquid N, P and K biofertilizers were applied to the respective plots one week before and at the time of sowing. Nitrogen and potassium were applied in three equal splits, respectively in the form of urea and muriate of potash as per the treatments whereas entire dose of phosphorus was applied as basal in the form of single super phosphate. Seeds were soaked with beejamrutham and liquid jeevamrutham was applied at every fortnight interval. The influence of various treatments on soil physical, physico- chemical, chemical and biological properties at tasseling and at harvest of crop growth was studied by collecting and analysing soil samples chemically by following standard procedures. The data on biometrical parameters viz., plant height and dry matter production at tasseling and growth and yield parameters viz., plant height, length and girth of the cob, 100 kernel weight, no.of kernels per cob, green cob and stover yield at harvest of crop growth were recorded. The concentrations of macro and xv micronutrients in sweet corn at tasseling and harvest of crop growth were estimated using standard procedures and their uptake was calculated. The biochemical parameters of sweet corn were estimated by following standard procedures. The data obtained on chemical analysis was statistically analysed and the results were summarised as follows. The results on physical and physico - chemical properties of soil viz., WHC, pH, EC and OC revealed that non significant influence of treatments during the crop growth. However, superior values were observed in the treatments which received organic sources of nutrients. The available N, P, K and sulphur status were Significantly influenced whereas micronutrients except iron the other nutrients were not significantly influenced by the imposed treatments at both the stages of crop growth. Further, it was observed that availability of both macro and micro nutrients status were improved over the initial status of soil. Similarly the biological properties of soil in respect of dehydrogenase activity and microbial population of bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes were significantly influenced by integration of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients over sole application of inorganic sources of nutrients. The data pertaining to growth, yield and yield attributes of sweet corn at tasseling and at harvest were significantly influenced and the treatment which received 100 per cent RDF recorded highest values and was on a par with treatments integrated with 50 per cent recommended dose of fertilizer with organic sources of nutrients. Significant positive correlation was observed between available macronutrient status and performance of sweet corn. The results on macronutrient content and their uptake revealed that significant influence of treatments at both the stages of crop growth with highest values in T2 (100 % RDF). Except iron, the other micronutrient concentrations in sweet corn were non significantly influenced by the treatments. However, the highest concentrations were recorded in T9 (25% RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + T4) and regarding the uptake of micronutrients significantly highest was recorded in T2 at both stages of crop growth and were significantly influenced by the treatments. The biochemical composition of sweet corn kernel was significantly influenced by the different nutrient management practices. The maximum protein content (10.56%) was observed in 100 per cent RDF whereas the starch and sucrose contents were observed in treatment T5 (50 % RDF + FYM @ 5 t ha-1).
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    FERTILITY EVALUATION OF UPLAND SOILS OF KRISHNA DISTRICT, ANDHRA PRADESH
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) MOUNIKA, P; Ravindra Babu, P
    An investigation was taken up to evaluate the fertility status of upland soils of Krishna district in Andhra Pradesh. Places were selected and soils were dug vertically down at two different depths (0-15 & 15-30 cm) and samples were collected for analysis from farmers fields in Vijayawada and Nuzivedu divisions of Krishna District. The coordinates at each location were recorded by using GPS equipment. The study area falls in semi-arid climate which is located on the east coast of India between 15°43’N and 17°10’N latitude and between 80°00’E and 81°33’E longitude. The climatic conditions of the district consist of extremely hot summers and moderately cold winters and may be classified as tropical. The mean annual rainfall in the region is about 1028 mm and is contributed mostly by the Southwest monsoon. The soils of study area comprised of two different textural classes, viz. sandy clay loam and clay for both surface and subsurface soil samples. Black soils are most dominant group in the study area and exhibited clayey in texture. The surface and subsurface soils were found to be neutral to highly alkaline in reaction. Electrical conductivity (EC) of the surface and subsurface samples varied from 0.12 to 0.72 dS m-1and from 0.11 to 0.83 dS m-1 with mean values of 0.42 dS m-1and 0.47 dS m-1, respectively. Cation exchange capacity (CEC) of surface soils ranged from 13.0 to 60.9 cmol (p+) kg-1 with a mean value of 36.95 cmol (p+) kg-1while it ranged from 15.2 to 64.8 cmol (p+) kg-1 with a mean value of 40 cmol (p+) kg-1in subsurface soils. Percent Base Saturation of surface soils ranged from 51.2-99.4% with mean of 75.3% while in subsurface soils it ranged from 27.6-99.7% with mean of 63.65%. Among the exchangeable cations, Ca2+ was most dominant cation on the exchange complex followed by Mg2+, K+ and Na+ in surface and subsurface soils of Krishna district. The divalent cations, like Ca2+ and Mg2+ were relatively less mobile yet among the two, Mg2+ ions were more mobile than Ca2+ ions. Relatively lower PBS has been observed in subsurface soils which might be due to less clay content and enhanced leaching of basic cations besides surface soils. High base saturation might be due to moderately alkaline reaction and high CaCO3 content, as the exchangeable complex of the soils were dominated by calcium and magnesium, which are main sources for base saturation. The surface and subsurface soils of the present study area were found to be low to medium in organic carbon content. The soils were low in available nitrogen and high in potassium. The available phosphorus ranged from low to medium in different samples with high amounts at surface. In general they followed a decreasing trend with depth. The available sulphur was sufficient in major part of the study area. Among micro nutrients copper and manganese were sufficient at both depths, while zinc was sufficient in 34 per cent and deficient in 66 per cent of surface soils where as in subsurface soils 73.6 percent are deficient. Iron was sufficient in 86 per cent and deficient in 14 per cent of surface soil and in subsurface soils, 85 percent are sufficient and 15 percent are found to be deficient.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    TAXONOMIC STUDIES ON SOILS OF THOTAPALLI AYACUT AREA OF NORTH COASTAL REGION OF ANDHRA PRADESH
    (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, 2018) HIMABINDU, KOSTU; GURUMURTHY, P
    Six soil profiles from Devarapalli, Gujjangivalasa, Cheepurupalli, Gangada, Aamity and Maddivalasa villages belonging to Srikakulam and Vizianagaram districts of north coastal Andhra Pradesh were selected and described for their site and morphological features. Horizonwise soil samples were collected from each profile and subjected to laboratory analysis. Surface soil samples were also collected from one hundred locations throughout the study area for fertility evaluation. Based on the morphology, physical, physico-chemical, electro-chemical and chemical properties of the soils, the soil profiles were classified as per USDA soil taxonomy (Soil Survey Staff, 2014). The study area was characterized as semi-arid to sub-humid climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The profiles were derived from granite-gneiss and mixture of granite-gneiss with calcareous murram. Topography was gently sloping cultivated lands to nearly level cultivated plains. The soils were moderately deep to very deep. Surface cracks of deep and wide and intersecting slickensides were observed in Gangada and Maddivalasa profiles, while argillans and iron nodules were found in profiles of Devarapalli, Gujjangivalasa and Aamiti. Profile 1 and 2 developed argillic horizon and profile 3, 4 and 5 had cambic horizon and calcic horizon was noticed in deeper layers of profile 4. The colour of the soils varied from yellowish brown to dark grayish brown. In general the textural classes were sandy loam to sandy clay loam in red soils while, it was clay loam / clay in black and associated soils. The structure varied from granular to sub-angular blocky in surface horizon and subangular blocky to angular blocky in subsurface. The soil physical constants like bulk density was recorded low at surface horizon compared to subsurface layers, whereas other properties like maximum water holding capacity, pore space and volume expansion were followed the trend as that of clay. The soils were acidic to alkaline in reaction, non saline with respect to soluble salt concentration, low to medium in organic carbon content. The CEC values ranged from 6.4 to 32.5 cmol (p+) kg-1 and the soil exchange complex was dominated by calcium followed by magnesium, sodium and potassium. The ratio of CEC / clay was low in profile 2, medium in profiles 1, 3 and 5, while high in profiles 4 and 6. Chemical composition of soils revealed that silica and sesquioxides were the dominant fractions followed by calcium and magnesium oxides. The X-ray difractograms of soil fine earth fraction revealed the presence of quartz mineral in sand and silt fractions of all the six profiles, while in clay fraction profiles 1, 3 and 5 showed evidence of kaolinite, montmorillonite and illite, profiles 4 and 6 exhibited presence of montmorillonite and profile 2 showed kaolinite and illite. In respect of available nutrient status, the soils in general were low in nitrogen, medium in phosphorus and high in potassium, while the micronutrients were sufficient in manganese however remaining micronutrients (Fe, Zn and Cu) were deficient to sufficient. Montmorillonite was the dominant clay mineral with small amounts of illite, kaolinite, hematite, magnetite, calcite and traces of quartz in all the profiles. Based on morphological, physical, physic-chemical, mineralogical and meterological data the soils were classified as follows Profile 1: Fine loamy, mixed, isohyperthermic, Typic Haplustalf Profile 2: Fine loamy, kaolinitic, isohyperthermic, Typic Haplustults Profile 3: Fine loamy, mixed, isohyperthermic, Typic Ustochrepts Profile 4: Clayey, montmorillonitic, isohyperthermic, Vertic Ustochrepts Profile 5: Fine loamy, mixed, isohyperthermic, Typic Ustochrepts Profile 6: Clayey, montmorillonitic, isohyperthermic, Chromic Haplustert. The laboratory analytical results of surface soil samples from one hundred locations covering 5 mandals of the study area and five villages in each mandal and four locations in each village were revealed that the soils were slightly acidic to alkaline in reaction, non saline with respect of soluble salt concentration, low to medium in organic carbon content and low in available nitrogen status, low to medium in available phosphorous and medium to high in potassium, deficient to sufficient in available zinc and iron, while sufficient in available copper and manganese.